Purification of living environments using photocatalysts: Inactivation of microorganisms and decomposition of allergens

• Published in: Journal of Veterinary Medical Science Vol. 86; no. 6; pp. 689 - 699
• Main Authors: MATSUURA, Ryosuke, AIDA, Yoko
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Japan JAPANESE SOCIETY OF VETERINARY SCIENCE 2024; Japan Science and Technology Agency; The Japanese Society of Veterinary Science
• Subjects: allergen; Allergenicity; Allergens; Antimicrobial agents; Decomposition; Disinfectants; Endotoxins; Infectious diseases; Legionella pneumophila; Livestock; Microorganisms; Organic matter; Photocatalysis; photocatalyst; Public Health; Redox reactions; Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2); allergen; Legionella pneumophila; photocatalyst; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)
• ISSN: 0916-7250; 1347-7439; 1347-7439
• DOI: 10.1292/jvms.24-0055

Many emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases are prevalent, and the number of patients with allergies is increasing. Therefore, the importance of purifying the living environment is increasing. Photocatalysts undergo extreme redox reactions and decompose organic matter upon exposure to the excitation light. In contrast to ultraviolet light and disinfectants, which are standard methods for inactivating viruses and eliminating microorganisms, photocatalysts can decompose toxic substances, such as endotoxins and allergens, rendering them harmless to the human body. Photocatalysts have attracted significant attention as potential antiviral and antimicrobial agents. This review outlines the antiviral, antimicrobial, and anti-allergenic effects of photocatalysts. Especially, we have discussed the inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 in liquids and aerosols, elimination of Legionella pneumophila in liquids, decomposition of its endotoxin, decomposition of cat and dog allergens, and elimination of their allergenicity using photocatalysts. Furthermore, we discuss future perspectives on how photocatalysts can purify living environments, and how photocatalytic technology can be applied to companion animals and the livestock industry.