Near-infrared photochemistry assisted by upconverting nanoparticles

Upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) combine unique optical and imaging properties with high chemical and biological stability. The capability of UCNPs to emit visible light upon near-infrared light excitation, in an anti-Stokes fashion, is extremely attractive for the design of light-responsive nanomaterials whose action can be controlled spatially and temporally.In this chapter, we analyze the most promising approaches developed so far to functionalize the surface of UCNPs with photoactivatable organic and inorganic molecular systems. In particular, we emphasize the key advances in the design of upconverting nanosystems that exploit bioactive transition metal complexes.