Science Cultivation

Science Cultivation

From Reticular Chemistry to Modern Medicine: The Story of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry

Document Type : Promotion Article

Authors
1 Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (IBB), University of Tehran
2 Department of Inorganic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sharif University of Technology
Abstract
The 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to the pioneers of reticular chemistry, Omar Yaghi, Richard Robson, and Susumu Kitagawa, for the development of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs). Richard Robson's theoretical work in the 1970s and 1980s was truly pioneering and ahead of its time. He was the first to mathematically and geometrically formulate and publish the concept of constructing infinite coordination networks from molecular building blocks. Yaghi and Kitagawa, independently and concurrently, moved toward constructing such networks driven by practical motivations, such as gas storage and separation, and relying on new synthesis techniques. They were not directly inspired by Robson's theory, but they worked within a broader intellectual framework of which he was one of the architects. This is a field that has brought about a fundamental transformation in the design and engineering of molecular structures over the past two decades. Reticular chemistry entails the design and construction of porous frameworks using predictable intra- and intermolecular bonds, which can be tailor-made for diverse purposes. In addition to MOFs, structures such as Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs) are also of great interest. Due to their exceptionally high pore volume and surface area, chemical stability, functional tunability, design diversity, and rich host-guest chemistry, these compounds have created unprecedented opportunities in modern medicine, industry, and environmental science. This article, focusing on the achievements recognized by the 2025 Nobel Prize, examines the historical development of reticular chemistry, its chemical foundations, and its biomedical applications, including targeted drug delivery, biosensors, medical imaging, and tissue engineering. An analysis of the accomplishments and operational challenges in translating this technology from the laboratory to the clinic is also presented. Compiled with the aim of reviewing historical developments, the principles of reticular chemistry, and biomedical applications, this article outlines the scientific and practical journey of this molecular revolution.
Keywords


Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 06 June 2026

  • Receive Date 18 May 2026
  • Accept Date 19 May 2026