Supramolecular Assemblies of Cucurbiturils with Photoactive, π-conjugated Chromophores

Photophysical Activity and Host-Guest Behavior of Ruthenium Polypyridyl Catalysts Encapsulated in Cucurbit[10]uril

This work outlines a strategy to combine the use of visible light and confined spaces to form a supramolecular photocatalyst system. Polypyridyl ruthenium(II) complexes [Ru(bpy)₃]²⁺ (bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine), [Ru(bpy)₂(bpm)]²⁺ (bpm = 2,2'-bipyrimidine), and [Ru(bpy)₂(bpz)]²⁺ (bpz = 2,2'-bipyrazine) are encapsulated in cucurbit[10]uril to form host-guest systems in aqueous solution. The photophysical properties of the complexes are altered by encapsulation, with improved emissive behavior for the heteroleptic complexes. Oxidative quenching of the photocatalyst's excited state via intermolecular charge transfer to methyl viologen can occur within the internal cavity, which acts to preorganize the reagents. The host-guest system containing [Ru(bpy)₃]²⁺ can bind suitable substrates, and essential criteria for its use as a supramolecular photocatalyst are investigated.

Trans-4-[4-(dimethylamino)styryl]-1-methylpyridinium Iodide@Hemimethylcucurbit[6]uril Fluorescent Probe for Anion Recognition

In the present work, a host–guest system of a hemimethyl-substituted cucurbit[6]uril derived from 3α-methyl-glycoluril (HMeQ[6]) and a hemicyanine dye, trans-4-[4-(dimethylamino)styryl]-1-methylpyridinium iodide (t-DSMI) showing strong fluorescence emission has been evaluated as a fluorescent probe. The results of a preliminary systematic study on the detection of a series of inorganic anions have revealed that this Q[n]-based host–guest fluorescent probe shows clear responses to BF4− and H2PO4− anions through distinct fluorescence quenching. Application of this Q[n]-based host–guest interaction system in anion recognition or detection opens a new avenue in Q[n] chemistry.