Anthracenyl and naphthyl-bipyridine coordinated to ruthenium(II) show ROS photogeneration.
Ruthenium(II) anthracenyl bipyridine showed production of both singlet oxygen and hydroxyl radical.
Anthracenyl-bipyridine moiety promoted binding to DNA while enhanced efficient photocleavage under visible light.
Potential application as a tool in cellular biology (CALI) and therapy.