AIEgens: An Exemplary Template for “One‐for‐All” Multimodal Phototheranostics

ABSTRACT Multimodal phototheranostics, capitalizing on the synergistic interplay of distinct optical diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, stand at the forefront of modern theranostic development. Among the pursued approaches, the “one‐for‐all” paradigm, which utilizes a single organic component to achieve four classic phototheranostic functions (i.e., fluorescence imaging, photoacoustic imaging, photodynamic therapy, and photothermal therapy), has gained considerable traction. Benefitting from the simple building block, the “one‐for‐all” phototheranostic agents generally exhibit well‐defined molecular architectures, finely tunable excited‐state energy pathways, excellent batch‐to‐batch reproducibility, predictable pharmacokinetic profiles, and superior biocompatibility, collectively pointing toward strong clinical translation potential. In this context, aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) have arisen as an exceptionally versatile molecular template, because their unique structural attributes offer precise control over the aggregation behavior and photophysical dynamics required for integrated phototheranostic design. In view of this, this review aims to propose a consensus that AIEgens serve as a quintessential template for “one‐for‐all” multimodal phototheranostics, and articulate the underlying rationale from a photophysical perspective. It comprehensively examines molecular engineering principles and performance optimization tactics for AIEgen‐based “one‐for‐all” systems, framed within the fundamental photophysical concept of excited‐state energy regulation. Furthermore, with a translational outlook, this review critically assesses the current challenges and proposes forward‐looking research trajectories, seeking to identify promising, underexplored avenues that could accelerate practical clinical application.