Rose Bengal as a multifunctional agent: from biomedical uses to catalysis and materials science

Since its discovery in 1882, Rose Bengal (RB) has evolved from a vibrant textile dye into a multifaceted scientific asset with a versatile molecular platform spanning medicine, catalysis, and materials science. Initially developed for fabric coloring, RB has now become essential for a wide array of advanced technologies because of its intricate photochemical and photophysical properties. This review traces the remarkable journey of RB, emphasizing its inherent anticancer and antibacterial properties and role as a photosensitizer (PS) in contemporary cancer treatments and infectious diseases through photodynamic therapy (PDT), sonodynamic therapy (SDT), and combination therapy, where it facilitates targeted therapies by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). The properties of RB are compared with FDA-approved and clinically explored photosensitizers currently available in the market. Promising results from RB clinical trials further underline its therapeutic potential. In addition to biomedical applications, RB contributes to enhanced drug delivery, catalysis, and microbiological applications while also demonstrating potential in sensing, solar energy conversion, and environmental remediation. Its established use in ophthalmology and emerging roles in neurodegenerative disease treatment reflect its expanding biomedical relevance. By exploring the mechanisms of action of RB and its integration into diverse systems, this review underscores its transformative potential across various disciplines, establishing RB as a pivotal agent in scientific and technological innovation. • Rose Bengal has evolved from a dye to a multifunctional scientific tool. • It acts as a potent photosensitizer in cancer photodynamic and sonodynamic therapy. • Rose Bengal enables innovations in drug delivery, catalysis, and biomedical applications. • Its potential extends to solar energy, sensing, environmental cleanup, and smart materials.