1
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Yucknovsky A, Amdursky N. Controlling pH-Sensitive Chemical Reactions Pathways with Light - a Tale of Two Photobases: an Arrhenius and a Brønsted. Chemistry 2023:e202303767. [PMID: 38084008 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202303767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Light-gated chemical reactions allow spatial and temporal control of chemical processes. Here, we suggest a new system for controlling pH-sensitive processes with light using two photobases of Arrhenius and Brønsted types. Only after light excitation do Arrhenius photobases undergo hydroxide ion dissociation, while Brønsted photobases capture a proton. However, none can be used alone to reversibly control pH due to the limitations arising from excessively fast or overly slow photoreaction timescales. We show here that combining the two types of photobases allows light-triggered and reversible pH control. We show an application of this method in directing the pH-dependent reaction pathways of the organic dye Alizarin Red S simply by switching between different wavelengths of light, i. e., irradiating each photobase separately. The concept of a light-controlled system shown here of a sophisticated interplay between two photobases can be integrated into various smart functional and dynamic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Yucknovsky
- Schulich Faculty of Chemistry, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 3200003, Israel
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2
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Anwer KE, El-Hddad SSA, Abd El-Sattar NEA, El-Morsy A, Khedr F, Mohamady S, Keshek DE, Salama SA, El-Adl K, Hanafy NS. Five and six membered heterocyclic rings endowed with azobenzene as dual EGFR T790M and VEGFR-2 inhibitors: design, synthesis, in silico ADMET profile, molecular docking, dynamic simulation and anticancer evaluations. RSC Adv 2023; 13:35321-35338. [PMID: 38053688 PMCID: PMC10695193 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra06614b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Novel azobenzene scaffold-joined heterocyclic isoxazole, pyrazole, triazole, and/or triazine moieties have been developed and synthesized utilizing microwave and traditional methods. Our compounds were tested for growth inhibition of A549, MCF-7, HCT-116, and HepG2 tumors by dual targeting the VEGFR-2 and EGFRT790M enzymes. The suggested compound's manner of binding with EGFRT790M and VEGFR-2 active sites was explored through molecular design and MD modeling. The information from the results of the biological screening and the docking studies was highly correlated. The A549 cell line was the one that responded to the novel compound's effects most effectively. Having IC50 values of 5.15, 6.37, 8.44 and 6.23 μM, respectively, 14 was the most effective derivative on the four A549, MCF-7, HCT116 and HepG2 cancer cells. It had greater activity than erlotinib and slightly inferior activities on the tested cell lines than sorafenib, respectively. The cytotoxicity of the most effective derivatives, 5, 6, 10 and 14, was evaluated against typical VERO cell lines. Having IC50 values ranging from 42.32 to 55.20 μM, the results showed that the investigated drugs have modest toxicity against VERO normal cells. Additionally all derivatives were assessed for their dual VEGFR-2 and EGFRT790M inhibitory effects. Among them, derivatives 14, 5 and 10 were established as the greatest inhibitors of VEGFR-2 at IC50 values of 0.95, 1.25 and 1.50 μM correspondingly. As well, derivatives 14, 6, 5 and 10 could inhibit EGFRT790M activity demonstrating strongest effects with IC50 = 0.25, 0.35, 0.40 and 0.50 μM respectively. Furthermore, the ADMET profile was evaluated for compounds 5, 6, 10 and 14 in contrast to reference drugs sorafenib and erlotinib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurls E Anwer
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University Abbassia Cairo Egypt
| | | | - Nour E A Abd El-Sattar
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University Abbassia Cairo Egypt
- Basic & Medical Sciences Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Alryada University for Science & Technology Egypt
| | - Ahmed El-Morsy
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, College of Pharmacy, The Islamic University Najaf Iraq
| | - Fathalla Khedr
- Pharmaceutical Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Design Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University Nasr City 11884 Cairo Egypt
| | - Samy Mohamady
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt Cairo Egypt
| | - Doaa E Keshek
- Department of Biology, Jumum College University, Umm Al-Qura University P.O. Box 7388 Makkah 21955 Sudia Arabia
- Agriculture Genetic Engineering Research Institute (AGERI), Agriculture Research Centre Giza Egypt
| | - Samir A Salama
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Taif University P.O. Box 11099 Taif 21944 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Khaled El-Adl
- Pharmaceutical Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Design Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University Nasr City 11884 Cairo Egypt
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University for Sustainable Development Cairo Egypt
| | - Noura S Hanafy
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University for Sustainable Development Cairo Egypt
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3
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Simon I, Homan EJ, Wijtmans M, Sundström M, Leurs R, De Esch IJP, Zarzycka BA. PSW-Designer: An Open-Source Computational Platform for the Design and Virtual Screening of Photopharmacological Ligands. J Chem Inf Model 2023; 63:6696-6705. [PMID: 37831965 PMCID: PMC10647043 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.3c01050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Photoswitchable (PSW) molecules offer an attractive opportunity for the optical control of biological processes. However, the successful design of such compounds remains a challenging multioptimization endeavor, resulting in several biological target classes still relatively poorly explored by photoswitchable ligands, as is the case for G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Here, we present the PSW-Designer, a fully open-source computational platform, implemented in the KNIME Analytics Platform, to design and virtually screen novel photoswitchable ligands for photopharmacological applications based on privileged scaffolds. We demonstrate the applicability of the PSW-Designer to GPCRs and assess its predictive capabilities via two retrospective case studies. Furthermore, by leveraging bioactivity information on known ligands, typical and atypical strategies for photoswitchable group incorporation, and the increasingly structural information available for biological targets, the PSW-Design will facilitate the design of novel photoswitchable molecules with improved photopharmacological properties and increased binding affinity shifts upon illumination for GPCRs and many other protein targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Icaro
A. Simon
- Division
of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Amsterdam Institute for
Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit
Amsterdam, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Evert J. Homan
- Science
for Life Laboratory, Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, S-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maikel Wijtmans
- Division
of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Amsterdam Institute for
Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit
Amsterdam, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michael Sundström
- Centre
for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, S-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rob Leurs
- Division
of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Amsterdam Institute for
Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit
Amsterdam, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Iwan J. P. De Esch
- Division
of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Amsterdam Institute for
Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit
Amsterdam, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Barbara A. Zarzycka
- Division
of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Amsterdam Institute for
Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit
Amsterdam, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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4
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Aleksanyan M, Grafmüller A, Crea F, Georgiev VN, Yandrapalli N, Block S, Heberle J, Dimova R. Photomanipulation of Minimal Synthetic Cells: Area Increase, Softening, and Interleaflet Coupling of Membrane Models Doped with Azobenzene-Lipid Photoswitches. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2304336. [PMID: 37653602 PMCID: PMC10625111 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202304336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Light can effectively interrogate biological systems in a reversible and physiologically compatible manner with high spatiotemporal precision. Understanding the biophysics of photo-induced processes in bio-systems is crucial for achieving relevant clinical applications. Employing membranes doped with the photolipid azobenzene-phosphatidylcholine (azo-PC), a holistic picture of light-triggered changes in membrane kinetics, morphology, and material properties obtained from correlative studies on cell-sized vesicles, Langmuir monolayers, supported lipid bilayers, and molecular dynamics simulations is provided. Light-induced membrane area increases as high as ≈25% and a ten-fold decrease in the membrane bending rigidity is observed upon trans-to-cis azo-PC isomerization associated with membrane leaflet coupling and molecular curvature changes. Vesicle electrodeformation measurements and atomic force microscopy reveal that trans azo-PC bilayers are thicker than palmitoyl-oleoyl phosphatidylcholine (POPC) bilayers but have higher specific membrane capacitance and dielectric constant suggesting an increased ability to store electric charges across the membrane. Lastly, incubating POPC vesicles with azo-PC solutions results in the insertion of azo-PC in the membrane enabling them to become photoresponsive. All these results demonstrate that light can be used to finely manipulate the shape, mechanical and electric properties of photolipid-doped minimal cell models, and liposomal drug carriers, thus, presenting a promising therapeutic alternative for the repair of cellular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Aleksanyan
- Max Planck Institute of Colloids and InterfacesScience Park Golm14476PotsdamGermany
- Institute for Chemistry and BiochemistryFreie Universität Berlin14195BerlinGermany
| | - Andrea Grafmüller
- Max Planck Institute of Colloids and InterfacesScience Park Golm14476PotsdamGermany
| | - Fucsia Crea
- Department of PhysicsFreie Universität Berlin14195BerlinGermany
| | - Vasil N. Georgiev
- Max Planck Institute of Colloids and InterfacesScience Park Golm14476PotsdamGermany
| | - Naresh Yandrapalli
- Max Planck Institute of Colloids and InterfacesScience Park Golm14476PotsdamGermany
| | - Stephan Block
- Institute for Chemistry and BiochemistryFreie Universität Berlin14195BerlinGermany
| | - Joachim Heberle
- Department of PhysicsFreie Universität Berlin14195BerlinGermany
| | - Rumiana Dimova
- Max Planck Institute of Colloids and InterfacesScience Park Golm14476PotsdamGermany
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5
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Cataldi E, Raschig M, Gutmann M, Geppert PT, Ruopp M, Schock M, Gerwe H, Bertermann R, Meinel L, Finze M, Nowak-Król A, Decker M, Lühmann T. Amber Light Control of Peptide Secondary Structure by a Perfluoroaromatic Azobenzene Photoswitch. Chembiochem 2023; 24:e202200570. [PMID: 36567253 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202200570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The incorporation of photoswitches into the molecular structure of peptides and proteins enables their dynamic photocontrol in complex biological systems. Here, a perfluorinated azobenzene derivative triggered by amber light was site-specifically conjugated to cysteines in a helical peptide by perfluoroarylation chemistry. In response to the photoisomerization (trans→cis) of the conjugated azobenzene with amber light, the secondary structure of the peptide was modulated from a disorganized into an amphiphilic helical structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Cataldi
- Universität Würzburg, Institute for Pharmacy and Food Chemistry, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Martina Raschig
- Universität Würzburg, Institute for Pharmacy and Food Chemistry, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Marcus Gutmann
- Universität Würzburg, Institute for Pharmacy and Food Chemistry, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Patrick T Geppert
- Universität Würzburg, Institute of Inorganic Chemistry and Institute for Sustainable Chemistry and Catalysis with Boron, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Ruopp
- Universität Würzburg, Institute for Pharmacy and Food Chemistry, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Marvin Schock
- Universität Würzburg, Institute for Pharmacy and Food Chemistry, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Hubert Gerwe
- Universität Würzburg, Institute for Pharmacy and Food Chemistry, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Bertermann
- Universität Würzburg, Institute of Inorganic Chemistry and Institute for Sustainable Chemistry and Catalysis with Boron, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Lorenz Meinel
- Universität Würzburg, Institute for Pharmacy and Food Chemistry, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany.,Helmholtz Institute for RNA-Based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Center for Infection Research (HZI), 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Maik Finze
- Universität Würzburg, Institute of Inorganic Chemistry and Institute for Sustainable Chemistry and Catalysis with Boron, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Agnieszka Nowak-Król
- Universität Würzburg, Institute of Inorganic Chemistry and Institute for Sustainable Chemistry and Catalysis with Boron, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Michael Decker
- Universität Würzburg, Institute for Pharmacy and Food Chemistry, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Tessa Lühmann
- Universität Würzburg, Institute for Pharmacy and Food Chemistry, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
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6
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Watching the release of a photopharmacological drug from tubulin using time-resolved serial crystallography. Nat Commun 2023; 14:903. [PMID: 36807348 PMCID: PMC9936131 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36481-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The binding and release of ligands from their protein targets is central to fundamental biological processes as well as to drug discovery. Photopharmacology introduces chemical triggers that allow the changing of ligand affinities and thus biological activity by light. Insight into the molecular mechanisms of photopharmacology is largely missing because the relevant transitions during the light-triggered reaction cannot be resolved by conventional structural biology. Using time-resolved serial crystallography at a synchrotron and X-ray free-electron laser, we capture the release of the anti-cancer compound azo-combretastatin A4 and the resulting conformational changes in tubulin. Nine structural snapshots from 1 ns to 100 ms complemented by simulations show how cis-to-trans isomerization of the azobenzene bond leads to a switch in ligand affinity, opening of an exit channel, and collapse of the binding pocket upon ligand release. The resulting global backbone rearrangements are related to the action mechanism of microtubule-destabilizing drugs.
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7
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Dotsenko VV, Varzieva EА. Synthesis of 6-(aryldiazenyl)-4H-chromene derivatives (microreview). Chem Heterocycl Compd (N Y) 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s10593-023-03143-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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8
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Nikolaev MV, Strashkov DM, Ryazantsev MN, Tikhonov DB. Development of a quaternary ammonium photoswitchable antagonist of NMDA receptors. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 938:175448. [PMID: 36470444 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
NMDA receptors play critical roles in numerous physiological and pathological processes in CNS that requires development of modulating ligands. In particular, photoswitchable compounds that selectively target NMDA receptors would be particularly useful for analysis of receptor contributions to various processes. Recently, we identified a light-dependent anti-NMDA activity of the azobenzene-containing quaternary ammonium compounds DENAQ (diethylamine-azobenzene-quaternary ammonium) and DMNAQ (dimethylamine-azobenzene-quaternary ammonium). Here, we developed a series of light-sensitive compounds based on the DENAQ structure, and studied their action on glutamate receptors in rat brain neurons using patch-clamp method. We found that the activities of the compounds and the influence of illumination strongly depended on the structural details, as even minor structural modifications greatly altered the activity and sensitivity to illumination. The compound PyrAQ (pyrrolidine-azobenzene-quaternary ammonium) was the most active and produced fast and fully reversible inhibition of NMDA receptors. The IC50 values under ambient and monochromic light conditions were 2 and 14 μM, respectively. The anti-AMPA activity was much weaker. The action of PyrAQ did not depend on NMDA receptor activity, agonist concentration, or membrane voltage, making it a useful tool for photopharmacological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxim V Nikolaev
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of RAS, 194223, Saint Petersburg, Russia.
| | - Daniil M Strashkov
- Saint Petersburg National Research Academic University of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 194021, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Mikhail N Ryazantsev
- Institute of Chemistry, Saint Petersburg State University, 198504, Saint Petersburg, Russia; Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnologies, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, 195251, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Denis B Tikhonov
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of RAS, 194223, Saint Petersburg, Russia
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9
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Light-Switchable Membrane Permeability in Giant Unilamellar Vesicles. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14122777. [PMID: 36559270 PMCID: PMC9780837 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work, giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) were synthesized by blending the natural phospholipid 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) with a photoswitchable amphiphile (1) that undergoes photoisomerization upon irradiation with UV-A (E to Z) and blue (Z to E) light. The mixed vesicles showed marked changes in behavior in response to UV light, including changes in morphology and the opening of pores. The fine control of membrane permeability with consequent cargo release could be attained by modulating either the UV irradiation intensity or the membrane composition. As a proof of concept, the photocontrolled release of sucrose from mixed GUVs is demonstrated using microscopy (phase contrast) and confocal studies. The permeability of the GUVs to sucrose could be increased to ~4 × 10-2 μm/s when the system was illuminated by UV light. With respect to previously reported systems (entirely composed of synthetic amphiphiles), our findings demonstrate the potential of photosensitive GUVs that are mainly composed of natural lipids to be used in medical and biomedical applications, such as targeted drug delivery and localized topical treatments.
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10
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Küllmer F, Gregor L, Arndt HD. Systematic modifications of substitution patterns for property tuning of photoswitchable asymmetric azobenzenes. Org Biomol Chem 2022; 20:4204-4214. [PMID: 35543370 DOI: 10.1039/d2ob00214k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Suitable designed photoswitches based on azobenzenes are essential structural features for photopharmacological compounds. Optimized azobenzenes are important for serving as building blocks in "azo extension" strategies, and for designing photodrugs with tailored properties. Herein we present the synthesis and characterization of a variety of asymmetric azobenzenes by addressing selected structural features of the diazene core, such as polarity, steric demand, and electronic properties. Systematic exploration led to photoswitches with a relaxation half-life of seconds, minutes, hours, or days. Furthermore, the influence of different substitution patterns on the photophysical properties was charted. For analysis of all switches, robust characterization as well as examination under near-to physiological conditions was established, in order to assist with photoswitch choice for specific biological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Küllmer
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Friedrich-Schiller-University, Humboldtstr. 10, 07743 Jena, Germany.
| | - Lucas Gregor
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Friedrich-Schiller-University, Humboldtstr. 10, 07743 Jena, Germany.
| | - Hans-Dieter Arndt
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Friedrich-Schiller-University, Humboldtstr. 10, 07743 Jena, Germany.
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11
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Zhu J, Guo T, Wang Z, Zhao Y. Triggered azobenzene-based prodrugs and drug delivery systems. J Control Release 2022; 345:475-493. [PMID: 35339578 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.03.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Azobenzene-based molecules show unique trans-cis isomerization upon ultraviolet light irradiation, which induce the change of polarity, crystallinity, stability, and binding affinity with pharmacological target. Moreover, azobenzene is the substrate of azoreductase that is often overexpressed in many pathological sites, e.g. hypoxic solid tumor. Therefore, azobenzene can be a multifunctional molecule in material science, pharmaceutical science and biomedicine because of its sensitivity to light, hypoxia and certain enzymes, hence showing potential application in site-specific smart therapy. Herein we focus on the employment of azobenzene and its derivatives for engineering triggered prodrug and drug delivery systems, and provide an overview of photoswitchable azo-based prodrugs, the associated problems regarding ultraviolet light and reversible isomerization, as well as the potential solutions. We also present the advance of azo-bearing delivery vehicles wherein azobenzene act as the linker, capping agent, and building block, and discuss the corresponding mechanisms for controlled cargo release, endocytosis enhancement and sensitization of free radical cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jundong Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science & Technology, Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High Efficiency, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Tao Guo
- Tianjin Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Tianjin 300120, China
| | - Zheng Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science & Technology, Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High Efficiency, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China.
| | - Yanjun Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Science & Technology, Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High Efficiency, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China.
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12
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Du Y, Shao Z, Xu Q, Li Z, Shao X. Azobenzene-Avermectin B1a Derivatives for Optical Modulation of Insect Behaviors. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:15530-15537. [PMID: 34914386 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c05036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Naturally occurring avermectins are allosteric modulators of glutamate-gated chloride channels (GluCls) and possess exceptionally potent anthelmintic, acaricidal, and insecticidal activities. Here, we develop photoswitchable azobenzene-avermectin (ABAVM) derivatives, which can be photoactivated upon ultraviolet irradiation. After illumination, the best compound p-AB4″AVM had a 1.88-fold and 2.74-fold insecticidal activity enhancement toward Culex pipiens pallens and Mythimna separata larvae, respectively. p-AB4″AVM allows for optical regulation of dorsal unpaired median neuron membrane potential with a 2.15-fold fluorescence intensity decrease after illumination. p-AB4″AVM and p-AB5AVM enable optical modulation of the behavioral response of Culex pipiens pallens larvae with 1- and 4-fold reduced mobility upon irradiation, respectively. The ABAVMs could be used to reversibly manipulate GluCls with light and may be useful for the mechanistic study of macrocyclic lactone insecticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoyao Du
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Zhongli Shao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Qi Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Zhong Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Xusheng Shao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
- Shanghai Frontier Science Research Base of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
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13
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Abstract
Azobenzenes are archetypal molecules that have a central role in fundamental and applied research. Over the course of almost two centuries, the area of azobenzenes has witnessed great achievements; azobenzenes have evolved from simple dyes to 'little engines' and have become ubiquitous in many aspects of our lives, ranging from textiles, cosmetics, food and medicine to energy and photonics. Despite their long history, azobenzenes continue to arouse academic interest, while being intensively produced for industrial purposes, owing to their rich chemistry, versatile and straightforward design, robust photoswitching process and biodegradability. The development of azobenzenes has stimulated the production of new coloured and light-responsive materials with various applications, and their use continues to expand towards new high-tech applications. In this Review, we highlight the latest achievements in the synthesis of red-light-responsive azobenzenes and the emerging application areas of photopharmacology, photoswitchable adhesives and biodegradable materials for drug delivery. We show how the synthetic versatility and adaptive properties of azobenzenes continue to inspire new research directions, with limits imposed only by one's imagination.
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14
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Volarić J, Szymanski W, Simeth NA, Feringa BL. Molecular photoswitches in aqueous environments. Chem Soc Rev 2021; 50:12377-12449. [PMID: 34590636 PMCID: PMC8591629 DOI: 10.1039/d0cs00547a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Molecular photoswitches enable dynamic control of processes with high spatiotemporal precision, using light as external stimulus, and hence are ideal tools for different research areas spanning from chemical biology to smart materials. Photoswitches are typically organic molecules that feature extended aromatic systems to make them responsive to (visible) light. However, this renders them inherently lipophilic, while water-solubility is of crucial importance to apply photoswitchable organic molecules in biological systems, like in the rapidly emerging field of photopharmacology. Several strategies for solubilizing organic molecules in water are known, but there are not yet clear rules for applying them to photoswitchable molecules. Importantly, rendering photoswitches water-soluble has a serious impact on both their photophysical and biological properties, which must be taken into consideration when designing new systems. Altogether, these aspects pose considerable challenges for successfully applying molecular photoswitches in aqueous systems, and in particular in biologically relevant media. In this review, we focus on fully water-soluble photoswitches, such as those used in biological environments, in both in vitro and in vivo studies. We discuss the design principles and prospects for water-soluble photoswitches to inspire and enable their future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Volarić
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, Faculty for Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Wiktor Szymanski
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, Faculty for Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands.
- Department of Radiology, Medical Imaging Center, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Nadja A Simeth
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, Faculty for Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands.
- Institute for Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Göttingen, Tammannstr. 2, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ben L Feringa
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, Faculty for Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands.
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15
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Nikolaev MV, Strashkov DM, Ryazantsev MN, Tikhonov DB. Optical Control of N-Methyl-d-aspartate Receptors by Azobenzene Quaternary Ammonium Compounds. ACS Chem Neurosci 2021; 12:3347-3357. [PMID: 34469111 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.1c00310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Azobenzene-based quaternary ammonium compounds provide optical control of ion channels and are considered promising agents for regulation of neuronal excitability and for restoration of the photosensitivity of retinal cells. However, the selectivity of the action of these compounds remains insufficiently known. We studied the action of DENAQ (diethylamine-azobenzene-quaternary ammonium) and DMNAQ (dimethylamine-azobenzene-quaternary ammonium) on ionotropic glutamate receptors in rat brain neurons. In the dark, both compounds applied extracellularly caused fast and reversible inhibition of NMDA (N-methyl-d-aspartate) receptor-mediated currents with IC50 values of 10 and 5 μM, respectively. Light-induced transformation of DENAQ and DMNAQ to their cis forms caused the IC50 values to increase to 30 and 27 μM, respectively. Detailed analysis of this action revealed a complex nature consisting of fast inhibitory and slower potentiating effects. The AMPA (α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid) receptors were only weakly affected independently on illumination. We conclude that, in addition to their long-lasting intracellular action, which persists after washout, azobenzene-based quaternary ammonium compounds should affect glutamatergic transmission and synaptic plasticity during treatment. Our findings also extend the list of soluble photoswitchable inhibitors of NMDA receptors. While the site(s) and mechanisms of action are unclear, the effect of DENAQ demonstrates strong pH dependence. At acidic pH values, DENAQ potentiates both NMDA and AMPA receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxim V. Nikolaev
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of RAS, Thorez pr. 44, 194223 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Daniil M. Strashkov
- Saint Petersburg National Research Academic University of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 8/3 Khlopina Street, 194021 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Mikhail N. Ryazantsev
- Institute of Chemistry, Saint Petersburg State University, Universitetskii pr. 26, 198504 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Denis B. Tikhonov
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of RAS, Thorez pr. 44, 194223 Saint Petersburg, Russia
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16
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Abstract
Genetic code expansion is one of the most powerful technologies in protein engineering. In addition to the 20 canonical amino acids, the expanded genetic code is supplemented by unnatural amino acids, which have artificial side chains that can be introduced into target proteins in vitro and in vivo. A wide range of chemical groups have been incorporated co-translationally into proteins in single cells and multicellular organisms by using genetic code expansion. Incorporated unnatural amino acids have been used for novel structure-function relationship studies, bioorthogonal labelling of proteins in cellulo for microscopy and in vivo for tissue-specific proteomics, the introduction of post-translational modifications and optical control of protein function, to name a few examples. In this Minireview, the development of genetic code expansion technology is briefly introduced, then its applications in neurobiology are discussed, with a focus on studies using mammalian cells and mice as model organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Nikić‐Spiegel
- Werner Reichardt Centre for Integrative NeuroscienceUniversity of TübingenOtfried-Müller-Strasse 2572076TübingenGermany
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17
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Gaur P, Galkin M, Hauke S, Redkin R, Barnes C, Shvadchak VV, Yushchenko DA. Reversible spatial and temporal control of lipid signaling. Chem Commun (Camb) 2020; 56:10646-10649. [PMID: 32857092 DOI: 10.1039/d0cc04146g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Herein, we introduce versatile molecular tools that enable specific delivery and visualization of photoswitchable lipids at cellular membranes, namely at the plasma membrane and internal membranes. These molecules were prepared by tethering ortho-nitrobenzyl-based fluorescent cages with a signaling lipid bearing an azobenzene photoswitch. They permit two sequential photocontrolled reactions, which are uncaging of a lipid analogue and then its repeated activation and deactivation. We used these molecules to activate GPR40 receptor transiently expressed in HeLa cells and demonstrated downstream modulation of intracellular Ca2+ levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Gaur
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, The Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo namesti 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic.
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18
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Grathwol CW, Wössner N, Behnisch-Cornwell S, Schulig L, Zhang L, Einsle O, Jung M, Link A. Activation of Sirtuin 2 Inhibitors Employing Photoswitchable Geometry and Aqueous Solubility. ChemMedChem 2020; 15:1480-1489. [PMID: 32314517 PMCID: PMC7496931 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202000148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Because isoenzymes of the experimentally and therapeutically extremely relevant sirtuin family show high similarity, addressing the unique selectivity pocket of sirtuin 2 is a promising strategy towards selective inhibitors. An unrelated approach towards selective inhibition of isoenzymes with varied tissue distribution is targeted drug delivery or spatiotemporal activation by photochemical activation. Azologization of two nicotinamide‐mimicking lead structures was undertaken to combine both approaches and yielded a set of 33 azobenzenes and azopyridines that have been evaluated for their photochemical behaviour and bioactivity. For some compounds, inhibitory activity reached the sub‐micromolar range in their thermodynamically favoured E form and could be decreased by photoisomerization to the metastable Z form. Besides, derivatization with long‐chain fatty acids yielded potent sirtuin 2 inhibitors, featuring another intriguing aspect of azo‐based photoswitches. In these compounds, switching to the Z isomer increased aqueous solubility and thereby enhanced biological activity by up to a factor of 21. The biological activity of two compounds was confirmed by hyperacetylation of sirtuin specific histone proteins in a cell‐based activity assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph W Grathwol
- Institute of Pharmacy, University of Greifswald, Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Str. 17, 17489, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Nathalie Wössner
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Freiburg, Albertstr. 25, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Steven Behnisch-Cornwell
- Institute of Pharmacy, University of Greifswald, Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Str. 17, 17489, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Lukas Schulig
- Institute of Pharmacy, University of Greifswald, Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Str. 17, 17489, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Lin Zhang
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Freiburg, Albertstr. 21, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Oliver Einsle
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Freiburg, Albertstr. 21, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Manfred Jung
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Freiburg, Albertstr. 25, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Link
- Institute of Pharmacy, University of Greifswald, Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Str. 17, 17489, Greifswald, Germany
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19
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Ahmad M, Metya S, Das A, Talukdar P. A Sandwich Azobenzene-Diamide Dimer for Photoregulated Chloride Transport. Chemistry 2020; 26:8703-8708. [PMID: 32129531 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202000400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There has been a tremendous evolution for artificial ion transport systems, especially gated synthetic systems, which closely mimic their natural congeners. Herein, we demonstrate a trans-azobenzene-based photoregulatory anionophoric system that transports chloride by forming a sandwich dimeric complex. Further studies confirmed a carrier-mediated chloride-anion antiport mechanism, and the supramolecular interactions involved in chloride recognition within the sandwich complex were revealed from theoretical studies. Reversible trans-cis photoisomerization of the azobenzene was achieved without any significant contribution from the thermal cis→trans isomerization at room temperature. Photoregulatory transport activity across the lipid bilayer membrane inferred an outstanding off-on response of the azobenzene photoswitch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manzoor Ahmad
- Chemistry Department, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan, Pune, 411008, Maharashtra, India
| | - Surajit Metya
- Chemistry Department, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan, Pune, 411008, Maharashtra, India
| | - Aloke Das
- Chemistry Department, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan, Pune, 411008, Maharashtra, India
| | - Pinaki Talukdar
- Chemistry Department, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan, Pune, 411008, Maharashtra, India
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20
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Chen XR, Yang L, Tan YL, Yu H, Ni CY, Niu Z, Lang JP. The solvent-induced isomerization of silver thiolate clusters with symmetry transformation. Chem Commun (Camb) 2020; 56:3649-3652. [DOI: 10.1039/d0cc01195a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The solvent-induced isomerizations of Ag12 clusters with symmetry transformations were realized by changing the coordinated solvent molecules at room temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu-Ran Chen
- College of Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering and Materials Science
- Soochow University
- Suzhou 215123
- People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Yang
- College of Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering and Materials Science
- Soochow University
- Suzhou 215123
- People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Ling Tan
- College of Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering and Materials Science
- Soochow University
- Suzhou 215123
- People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Yu
- College of Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering and Materials Science
- Soochow University
- Suzhou 215123
- People's Republic of China
| | - Chun-Yan Ni
- College of Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering and Materials Science
- Soochow University
- Suzhou 215123
- People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Niu
- College of Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering and Materials Science
- Soochow University
- Suzhou 215123
- People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Ping Lang
- College of Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering and Materials Science
- Soochow University
- Suzhou 215123
- People's Republic of China
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21
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Wang Z, Sun HT, Kurmoo M, Liu QY, Zhuang GL, Zhao QQ, Wang XP, Tung CH, Sun D. Carboxylic acid stimulated silver shell isomerism in a triple core-shell Ag 84 nanocluster. Chem Sci 2019; 10:4862-4867. [PMID: 31183036 PMCID: PMC6520922 DOI: 10.1039/c8sc05666h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
A unique triple core–shell Ag84 nanocluster displaying isomerism, which is controlled by different carboxylic acids and a one-way transformation (SD/Ag84a and SD/Ag84b).
Isomerization is highly important in all aspects of science, yet it is rarely observed in nanoscience. Here, we synthesized a unique triple core–shell Ag84 nanocluster displaying isomerism, which is controlled by different carboxylic acids and a one-way transformation (SD/Ag84a → SD/Ag84b). The innermost core is a rare Ag10 nanocluster which comprises an Ag6 octahedral unit as seen in face-centred cubic (fcc) silver metal and four capped Ag atoms. It templates two crescent-shaped polyoxometalate (W7O26)10– shells which are then enclosed in a shell of silver shaped as rugby balls. The organic ligands (iPrS–, nPrCOO– and PhCOO–) finally shield the metallic clusters. Due to slight differences in structure at two poles and the steric hindrance of nPrCOO– and PhCOO–, SD/Ag84a and SD/Ag84b adopt the shapes of flat-headed and cuspidal prolate spheres, respectively. Interestingly, PhCOOH is dominant over nPrCOOH whereby crystals of SD/Ag84b were isolated if PhCOOH is added during the synthesis of SD/Ag84a. This demonstrates that PhCOOH not only alters the organic coats but also induces metal shell re-organization. This work reveals carboxylate-controlled skeletal isomerism in silver nanoclusters for the first time, thus deepening the understanding of silver nanocluster assembly, flexibility and reactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry , Ministry of Education , School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , State Key Laboratory of Crystal Materials , Shandong University , Jinan , 250100 , People's Republic of China .
| | - Hao-Tian Sun
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry , Ministry of Education , School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , State Key Laboratory of Crystal Materials , Shandong University , Jinan , 250100 , People's Republic of China .
| | - Mohamedally Kurmoo
- Institut de Chimie de Strasbourg , Université de Strasbourg , CNRS-UMR 7177 , 4 rue Blaise Pascal , 67008 Strasbourg Cedex , France
| | - Qing-Yun Liu
- College of Chemical and Environmental Engineering , Shandong University of Science and Technology , Qingdao , 266590 , People's Republic of China
| | - Gui-Lin Zhuang
- College of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science , Zhejiang University of Technology , Hangzhou , 310032 , People's Republic of China .
| | - Quan-Qin Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry , Ministry of Education , School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , State Key Laboratory of Crystal Materials , Shandong University , Jinan , 250100 , People's Republic of China .
| | - Xing-Po Wang
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry , Ministry of Education , School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , State Key Laboratory of Crystal Materials , Shandong University , Jinan , 250100 , People's Republic of China .
| | - Chen-Ho Tung
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry , Ministry of Education , School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , State Key Laboratory of Crystal Materials , Shandong University , Jinan , 250100 , People's Republic of China .
| | - Di Sun
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry , Ministry of Education , School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , State Key Laboratory of Crystal Materials , Shandong University , Jinan , 250100 , People's Republic of China . .,College of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science , Zhejiang University of Technology , Hangzhou , 310032 , People's Republic of China .
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