Dendrimers are well-defined tree-like macromolecules possessing numerous chain ends emanating from a single core, which makes them attractive candidates for mimicking light-harvesting systems and hydrogenases. Photoinduced electron and energy transfers are main processes involved in light-harvesting and photocatalysis. In this review, the general concepts of design strategies and recent developments of photofunctional dendrimers in biomimics of light-harvesting systems and hydrogenases are discussed. The energy transfer and electron transfer processes in light-harvesting dendrimers and the effect of dendritic structures in photochemical hydrogen production are illustrated.
Xinyang LiuYi ZengXiaohui ZhangTianjun YuJinping ChenYi Li