Melanin and light: synthesis, characterization and application of photoactive biomimetic pigments

The thesis, “Melanin and light: synthesis, characterization and application of photoactive biomimetic pigments,” is the culmination of a three-year Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in “Nanoscience for medicine and the environment” at Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna. My research was conducted within the prof. Marco Montalti’s group, which specializes in the investigation and development of photoactive nanomaterials, with a recent focus on melanins. Melanins are a class of naturally occurring pigments mostly known for their photoprotective and pigmentation roles in biological systems. Recently, understanding the complex interaction between melanin and light has become a crucial area of research, not only to elucidate its function as a natural sunscreen but also to inspire the development of next-generation biomimetic technologies. Bio-inspired solutions offer a promising route to address emerging challenges, providing eco-friendly, biocompatible, and economically competitive alternatives across various fields. Accordingly, my work concentrated on two primary objectives: the elucidation of the light-melanin interaction and the development of melanin-inspired, light-driven technologies.