Boron-Dipyrromethene Based Reversible and Reusable Selective Chemosensor for Fluoride Detection

Synthesis and Photophysical Characterizations of Benzimidazole Functionalized BODIPY Dyes

Herein, a series of new BODIPY dyes substituted by 2-phenyl benzimidazole units at the meso (C8) position including methyl/ethyl, phenyl, or p-methoxyphenyl moieties at the distal and proximal positions of the BODIPY core have been successfully synthesized and their photophysical characteristics were analyzed. Experimentally investigating absorption and fluorescence profiles in the THF media was followed by density functional theory (DFT) calculations to clarify photophysical features. Theoretical analyses have revealed that upon excitation, both electrons and holes are confined solely within the BODIPY core. The energy levels of the frontier molecular orbitals converge depending on the presence of the phenyl and p-methoxyphenyl substituents. The orbital distributions of both electron and hole were in the -3 and -5 positions, which demonstrates a continuous conjugation with the BODIPY core at these sites. However, the electron density present on the phenyl rings located at the -1, -7, and -8 (meso) positions was found to be negligible. The benzimidazole-BODIPYs exhibited photodynamic activity (Φ∆) ranging from ~ 7% to ~ 11%, determined by a comparative method. Moreover, the compounds have shown to maintain their stability thermally in a non-reactive/inert environment up to temperatures surpassing 300 °C, exhibiting primarily a two-phase decomposition process. These compounds have the potential to function as antibacterial and anti-biofilm agents when used in concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 2.0 mg/mL. The results provide a basis for evaluating heterocyclic benzimidazole units on photophysical processes containing BODIPY chromophores.

Polychromatic fluorescent MoS2 quantum dots: fabrication and off-on sensing for fluorine ions in water

Recently, MoS₂ quantum dots (QDs) have receive widespread attention as a promising luminescent material. However, so far, little effort has been made on the multicolor emission of MoS₂ QDs. Herein, an in situ iodine doping strategy is presented and used to synthesize tunable-photoluminescent (PL) MoS₂ QDs. By fine iodine doping, the PL of the MoS₂ QDs (I-MoS₂ QDs) can be tuned in the range from 423 nm to 529 nm, which exceeds the as-reported emission wavelength range. Studies using controlled experiments and density functional theory (DFT) reveal that the change in electronic state of MoS₂ QDs is responsible for the changing PL due to iodine doping. As-synthesized I-MoS₂ QDs combined with Fe³⁺ is developed as a "turn-off-on" fluorescence sensor for F^- ions in water. The fluorescence probe has a fine linear response to F^- ions in the concentration range of 2.5-80 μM, and the limit of detection is 1.4 μM (S/N = 3).

A comparative performance evaluation of cephalosporin's drugs for fluoride recognition

In this manuscript, readily available cephalosporin's drugs cefuroxime axetil (L1) cefpdoxime proxetil (L2), and cefditoren pivoxil (L3) possess dihydrothiazine ring as signaling unit, and -NH groups as the binding site were used for the sensing of fluoride (F^-) ions. In the presence of F^-, the drug selectively portrayed a naked-eye detectable color change from colorless. The binding constant of 1:1 stoichiometric complex of L1, L2, and L3 with F^- was found to be 2.36 × 10⁴ M^-1, 2.44 × 10³ M^-1 and 1.02 × 10⁴ M^-1 respectively. The lowest detection limit (LOD) of F^- was found to be 11 µM (209 ppb) with drug L1 and L2. The binding mechanism of the drug with F^- was studied by ¹H and ¹⁹F nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectral titration, electrospray ionization mass spectra (ESI-MS) analysis, and density functional theory (DFT) studies. The presence of F^- was monitored in various spiked water and Colgate toothpaste samples. Overall, cephalosporin's drug demonstrates a promising potential for the detection of F^- ions in the semi-aqueous phase.

Reaction-based fluorescence probes for “turn on” sensing fluoride ions

Introducing a weak covalent bond into an originally highly fluorescent molecule to create a non-fluorescent probe is able to afford a new way to detect some neucleophilic targets with enhanced...

Synthesis of two tetra-azolium salts and the recognition performance for guests

Two tetra-azolium salts 1 and 2 were synthesized and characterized, and their selective recognition of guests (o-phenylenediamine and F−) was investigated.

Crystal structure and fluorescence study of (μ-N-[(3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)methyl-idene]-N-{4-[(3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)methyl-idene-aza-nium-yl]phen-yl}aza-nium)bis-[di-fluorido-boron(IV)]

The title mol-ecule, C20H20B2F4N4, assumes a planar conformation with all atoms apart from the F atoms lying on the symmetry plane. Each boron atom is four-coordinated by two fluorine atoms, a pyrrole N atom and an imine N atom. Both imine CH=N groups adopt a trans conformation. In the crystal, the mol-ecules self-assemble into a pillar structure through C-H⋯F hydrogen bonds and π-π inter-actions. The UV-vis spectrum and fluorescence spectra of the title compound are also reported.

Synthesis and characterization of poly(tetraphenylimidazole)s and their application in the detection of fluoride ions

Here, we describe the synthesis and characterization of a silyl protected tetraphenylimidazole monomer and its homo and co-polymer. The requisite monomer was accessed by Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling of 2-(1-(4-bromophenyl)-4,5-diphenyl-1H-imidazol-2-yl)phenol and 4-vinylphenylboronic acid followed by protection of the phenolic group by tert-butyl(chloro)diphenylsilane. The desired polymers were readily synthesized by using free radical polymerization. Both the polymers and monomer were characterized using different analytical techniques including multinuclear NMR, GPC (for polymers), and single crystal X-ray crystallography (for the monomer). By utilizing the greater fluorophilicity of the silyl atom, the polymers were studied as probes for the detection of fluoride ions. The selectivity and sensitivity of the synthesized polymers were investigated in detail.

We describe the synthesis and characterization of a silyl protected tetraphenylimidazole monomer and its polymers. The polymers were studied as probes for the detection of fluoride ions. Both the probes showed high selectivity and sensitivity over other ions tested.

A novel colorimetric-fluorescent probe for Al3+ and the resultant complex for F- and its applications in cell imaging

A novel quinoline-based Schiff-base probe QL had been synthesized, which could sequentially monitor Al³⁺ and F^- in MeOH-H₂O solution (v/v = 8/1, 0.01 M, HEPES buffer, pH = 7.3). The probe QL expressed a high selective and sensitive "OFF-ON-OFF" fluorescent response for Al³⁺ and F^- (excitation at 460 nm and emission at 530 nm) accompanying visible color changed, which was ascribed to intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) process and chelation-enhanced fluorescence (CHEF) mechanism. The binding stoichiometry of QL with Al³⁺ was 2:1 counting on Job's plot and HRMS, while F^- could pull Al³⁺ to depart from the complexation 2QL-Al³⁺ and released free QL. The limit of detections of probe QL for Al³⁺ and F^- ions were calculated to be 0.10 μM and 0.50 μM. The ¹H NMR experiments and density functional theory (DFT) calculations were carried out to further prove the binding mode between QL and Al³⁺. Furthermore, fluorescence imaging studies demonstrated that the probe QL was low cytotoxicity and could be applied to detect Al³⁺ and F^- in living PC12cells.

A novel OFF-ON-OFF fluorescence probe based on coumarin for Al3+ and F- detection and bioimaging in living cells

A novel fluorescence probe L2 based on coumarin has been designed and synthesized. The probe L2 can be used for relay recognition of metal ions Al³⁺ and anion F^- in the aqueous HEPES buffer (0.05 M, pH = 7.4), and build a OFF-ON-OFF detection system. The probe showed high selectivity and sensitivity to target ions in the process of relay recognition, and the corresponding detection limit could be as low as 0.014 μM (Al³⁺) and 0.03 μM (F^-). Besides, the geometry optimizations of probe L2 and [L2 + Al³⁺] complex were carried out using the Gaussian 16 program based on DFT, and the identification mechanism of the probe was also discussed by the mass spectrometry and theoretical calculations. Moreover, the probe has also been successfully applied to detection of target ions in living cells.

A benzimidazole-based non-symmetrical tripodal receptor for the ratiometric fluorescence sensing of fluoride ions and solid state recognition of sulfate ions

A novel tripodal receptor has been reported as a fluorescent chemosensor for fluoride ions. Moreover, in solid state, seven units of the protonated receptors form a pseudo-capsular cavity to encapsulate two pairs of sulphate anions.

AIE active piperazine appended naphthalimide-BODIPYs: photophysical properties and applications in live cell lysosomal tracking

Piperazine appended naphthalimide-BODIPYs (NPB1–NPB4) exhibiting solvatochromism, aggregation-induced emission, and high selectivity towards lysosomal pH in living cells have been described.

Preparation of Macrometallocycle and Selective Sensor for Copper Ion

Two bis-imidazolium salts 1,8-bis[2'-(N-R-imidazoliumyl)acetylamino]naphthalene chloride (L1H4·Cl2: R = Et; L2H4·Cl2: R = nBu), as well as their four NHC metal complexes [L1H2Ag]Cl (1), [L1Ni] (2), [L2Ni] (3) and [L1H2Hg(HgCl4)] (4) have been synthesized. In each of the cationic moieties of complexes 1 or 4, there is a groove-like 14-membered macrometallocycle, and each macrometallocycle is consisted of one biscarbene ligand L1H2 and one metal ion (silver(I) ion for 1 and mercury(II) ion for 4). Three 6-membered cycles are contained in each molecule of complexes 2 or 3. Additionally, the selective recognition of macrometallocycle 1 for Cu2+ was studied with the methods of fluorescence and ultraviolet spectroscopy, 1H NMR titrations, MS and IR spectra. The experimental results display macrometallocycle 1 can discriminate Cu2+ from other cations effectively.

A reusable cyanide sensor via activation of C–H group: trifluoromethylcarbinol-directed meta-C–H cyanomethylation of naphthalimide

A fluorescent and colorimetric anion sensor based on the activated C–H group has been developed, and its reusability and ability to selectively detect cyanides have been demonstrated.

Synthesis and structural studies of N-heterocyclic carbene Ag(I) and Hg(II) complexes and recognition of dihydrogen phosphate anion

Bis-benzimidazolium salt (S)-2,2'-bis[2″-(N-Et-benzimidazoliumyl)ethoxy]-1,1'-binaphthyl hexafluorophosphate [(S)-L1H2]·(PF6)2 and bis-imidazolium salts (S)-2,2'-bis[2″-(N-R-imidazoliumyl)ethoxy]-1,1'-binaphthyl hexafluorophosphate [(S)-L2H2]·(PF6)2 and [(S)-L3H2]·(PF6)2 (R = ethyl or benzyl), as well as their five N-heterocyclic carbene Hg(II) and Ag(I) complexes such as [(S)-L1Hg(HgBr4)] (1), [(S)-L2Hg(HgBr4)] (2), [(S)-L2Hg(HgI4)] (3), {[(S)-L2Ag](PF6)}n (4) and [(S)-L3Ag](PF6) (5) have been prepared and characterized. Each of complexes 1-3 consists of two rings (one 6-membered ring and one 11-membered ring), in which the oxygen atom in the ligand participates in coordination with Hg(II) ion. In complex 4, 1D helical polymeric chain is formed via biscarbene ligand (S)-L2 and Ag(I) ion. A 15-membered macrometallocycle is constructed through a ligand (S)-L3 and a Ag(I) ion in complex 5. Additionally, the selective recognition of H2PO4- using complex 5 as a receptor was investigated on the basis of fluorescence and UV/vis spectroscopic titrations. The results indicate that complex 5 can distinguish effectively H2PO4- from other anions.

Anthraimidazoledione Based Reversible and Reusable Selective Chemosensors for Fluoride Ion: Naked-Eye, Colorimetric and Fluorescence "ON-OFF"

Novel anthraimidazoledione-based compounds (1-3) are synthesized as selective colorimetric and fluorescent sensors for fluoride ion. The binding properties of the probes (1-3) are studied with different anions in acetonitrile solvent. Spectral red shifts in the absorption spectra and 'turn-off' emission are observed when fluoride is added to 1-3. The striking green to orange color change in the ambient light is thought to be due to the deprotonation of the N-H proton of the imidazole moiety of the probes by the basic F^- ion. Interestingly, in all three cases the nonfluorescent probe-F^- solutions, on treatment with copper perchlorate, show distinct color change from orange to golden yellow with resumption of fluorescence intensity. Furthermore, the reversibility of sensors (1-3) for the detection of F^- ion is tested for four cycles indicating that "ON-OFF-ON" mechanism is operative. Test strip based on sensor 2 acts as a reusable cost-effective F^- sensor.

Macrometallocycle binuclear NHC silver(i) complexes: synthesis, structure and recognition of o-phenylenediamine

Macrometallocycle 4 as a host can distinguish o-phenylenediamine from other aromatic amines, which is investigated using the methods of fluorescence and UV/vis spectroscopy.

Fluorescent triazolium for sensing fluoride anions in semi-aqueous solution

A new triazolium-based receptor for fluorescent sensing of inorganic fluoride anions in semi-aqueous solution and the solid state was reported.

A smart ratiometric red fluorescent chemodosimeter for fluoride based on anthraquinone nosylate

A smart ratiometric red fluorescent chemodosimeter (AH) has been explored for specific detection of F⁻ with a lowest detection limit of 3.45 × 10⁻¹⁰ M. The sensing mechanism was worked out as fluoride-triggered deprotonation of imidazole accompanied by deprotection of the nosylate group.

Colorimetry and phase transition characteristics in sensing fluoride anion based on hydrazide organogelators

Colorimetry and phase transition characteristics in sensing fluoride anions have been achieved based on hydrazide organogelators.

A Cu2+-Selective Probe Based on Phenanthro-Imidazole Derivative

A novel fluorescent Probe 1, based on phenanthro-imidazole has been developed as an efficient chemosensor for the trace detection of copper ions (Cu²⁺). Probe 1 demonstrated sensitive fluorescence quenching upon binding with Cu²⁺ through 1:1 stoichiometric chelation. The detection limit for Cu²⁺ ions was projected through linear quenching fitting to be as low as 2.77 × 10^-8 M (or 1.77 ppb). The sensing response was highly selective towards Cu²⁺ with minimal influence from other common metal ions, facilitating the practical application of Probe 1 in trace detection.

Revising Intramolecular Photoinduced Electron Transfer (PET) from First-Principles

Photoinduced electron transfer (PET) plays relevant roles in many areas of chemistry, including charge separation processes in photovoltaics, natural and artificial photosynthesis, and photoluminescence sensors and switches. As in many other photochemical scenarios, the structural and energetic factors play relevant roles in determining the rates and efficiencies of PET and its competitive photodeactivation processes. Particularly, in the field of fluorescent sensors and switches, intramolecular PET is believed (in many cases without compelling experimental proof) to be responsible of the quench of fluorescence. There is an increasing experimental interest in fluorophore's molecular design and on achieving optimal excitation/emission spectra, excitation coefficients, and fluorescence quantum yields (importantly for bioimaging purposes), but less efforts are devoted to fundamental mechanistic studies. In this Account, I revise the origins of the fluorescence quenching in some of these systems with state-of-the-art quantum chemical tools. These studies go beyond the common strategy of analyzing frontier orbital energy diagrams and performing PET thermodynamics calculations. Instead, the potential energy surfaces (PESs) of the lowest-lying excited states are explored with time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) and complete active space self-consistent field (CASSCF) calculations and the radiative and nonradiative decay rates from the involved excited states are computed from first-principles using a thermal vibration correlation function formalism. With such a strategy, this work reveals the real origins of the fluorescence quenching, herein entitled as dark-state quenching. Dark states (those that do not absorb or emit light) are often elusive to experiments and thus, computational investigations can provide novel insights into the actual photodeactivation mechanisms. The success of the dark-state quenching mechanism is demonstrated for a wide variety of fluorescent probes, including proton, cation and anion targets. Furthermore, this mechanism provides a general picture of the fluorescence quenching which englobes intramolecular charge-transfer (ICT), ratiometric quenching, and those radiationless mechanisms believed to be originated by PET. Finally, this Account provides for the first time a computational protocol to quantitatively estimate this phenomenon and provides the ingredients for the optimal design of fluorescent probes from first principles.

Three-Fold C 3-Symmetric Off-On Fluorescent Chemo-Sensors for Fluoride

Three novel C 3-symmetric tris-salicylaldimine Schiff base based "off-on" fluorescence sensors have been designed and synthesized. The synthetic approach involves a simple imine bond (C = N) formation between 1,3,5-tris(4'-aminophenyl)benzene (TAPB) and 3,5-substituted salicylaldehydes. The presence of salicylaldehyde units on periphery of the tris-salicylaldimine Schiff bases masks the fluorescence of TAPB core. Interestingly, binding of fluoride ions to the salicylaldehyde units turns the fluorescence "on" in visible region. Fluoride ion detection limits for the present sensors have been calculated to be in the range of 0.17-3.0 ppm, which depends on the nature of the salicylaldehyde units.

Synthesis and Application of an Aldazine-Based Fluorescence Chemosensor for the Sequential Detection of Cu²⁺ and Biological Thiols in Aqueous Solution and Living Cells

A fluorescence chemosensor, 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde azine (HNA) was designed and synthesized for sequential detection of Cu(2+) and biothiols. It was found that HNA can specifically bind to Cu(2+) with 1:1 stoichiometry, accompanied with a dramatic fluorescence quenching and a remarkable bathochromic-shift of the absorbance peak in HEPES buffer. The generated HNA-Cu(2+) ensemble displayed a "turn-on" fluorescent response specific for biothiols (Hcy, Cys and GSH) based on the displacement approach, giving a remarkable recovery of fluorescence and UV-Vis spectra. The detection limits of HNA-Cu(2+) to Hcy, Cys and GSH were estimated to be 1.5 μM, 1.0 μM and 0.8 μM, respectively, suggesting that HNA-Cu(2+) is sensitive enough for the determination of thiols in biological systems. The biocompatibility of HNA towards A549 human lung carcinoma cell, was evaluated by an MTT assay. The capability of HNA-Cu(2+) to detect biothiols in live A549 cells was then demonstrated by a microscopy fluorescence imaging assay.