N-Heterocyclic Carbenes as Game-Changing Ligands: Advances in Catalysis, Photocatalysis, and Medicinal Applications

Abstract Over the past 25 years, the Nolan group has advanced N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) chemistry, establishing NHCs as versatile, stable ligands in organometallic science. Our research spans organometallic chemistry, homogeneous catalysis, medicinal chemistry, and photocatalysis. Key achievements include developing efficient NHC–metal catalysts for sustainable chemical transformations, designing NHC–metal complexes with potent anticancer activity, and introducing NHC–gold complexes for visible-light photocatalysis. These contributions highlight the broad impact of rational ligand design on catalysis, therapeutic innovation, and green chemistry.