New catalysts mimic human vision
(PHYSorg.com Chemistry)

Photoreceptors in vertebrates typically consist of two separate colourless parts: an organic pigment and a protein. Combined, they create a colourful, light-sensitive molecule called an iminium ion that triggers vision upon light excitation. Inspired by this mechanism, a team of researchers at the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) created a new family of sustainable, environmentally friendly catalysts that can be activated using purple LEDs.