Optical and biological properties of metal-containing macromolecules

Organometallic macromolecular polymers and dendrimers constructed with various chromophores and antimicrobial species are attracting considerable attention. Interest in these materials stems from their exceptional properties and potential applications in the industry as biomedical and photoactive agents, as well as their use as sensors. Over the past few decades, the exponential growth of many new classes of metallo-macromolecules that address these issues has been illustrated. Metal-based antimicrobial macromolecules are rising due to the combination of the multiple interactions of the unique properties of metallic moieties and the effect of the bioactive species. Progress in the field of organometallic photoactive materials derives from their broad applications, including photonic switches and upconversion lasers, in addition to sensors and electronic devices. The aim of this inclusive review is to highlight the design and properties of several types of bioactive and drug delivery macromolecules containing metallic moieties as well as metallopolymers and dendrimers containing organic light-emitting diodes.