Molecular photoswitches in aqueous environments

Red-light-controlled supramolecular assemblies of indigo amphiphiles at multiple length scales

Amphiphilic molecules functionalized with photoresponsive motifs have attractive prospects for applications in smart functional bio-material ranging from cell-material interfaces to drug delivery systems owing to the precisely controllable functionality of self-assembled hierarchical supramolecular structures in aqueous media by a non-invasive light stimulation with high temporal- and spatial-resolution. However, most of reported photoresponsive amphiphiles are triggered by bio-damaging UV-light, which greatly limits the potential in bio-related applications. Herein, we present newly designed red-light controlled N,N'-diaryl-substituted indigo amphiphiles (IA), exhibiting excellent photoswitchablity and photostability with dual red-/green-light in organic media. Meanwhile, aqueous solutions of IA assembled into supramolecular structures in both microscopic and macroscopic length-scale, though the photoresponsiveness of IA is slightly compromised in aqueous media. At macroscopic length-scale, morphological changes of IA macroscopic scaffold prepared by a shear-flow method can be fine adjusted upon red-light irradiation. Moreover, the preferential attachment of live h-MSCs to IA macroscopic scaffold surface also indicates a good biocompatibility of IA macroscopic scaffold. These results provide the potential for developing the next generation of red-light controlled soft functional materials with good biocompatibility.

Optical Phenomena in Molecule-Based Magnetic Materials

Since the last century, we have witnessed the development of molecular magnetism which deals with magnetic materials based on molecular species, i.e., organic radicals and metal complexes. Among them, the broadest attention was devoted to molecule-based ferro-/ferrimagnets, spin transition materials, including those exploring electron transfer, molecular nanomagnets, such as single-molecule magnets (SMMs), molecular qubits, and stimuli-responsive magnetic materials. Their physical properties open the application horizons in sensors, data storage, spintronics, and quantum computation. It was found that various optical phenomena, such as thermochromism, photoswitching of magnetic and optical characteristics, luminescence, nonlinear optical and chiroptical effects, as well as optical responsivity to external stimuli, can be implemented into molecule-based magnetic materials. Moreover, the fruitful interactions of these optical effects with magnetism in molecule-based materials can provide new physical cross-effects and multifunctionality, enriching the applications in optical, electronic, and magnetic devices. This Review aims to show the scope of optical phenomena generated in molecule-based magnetic materials, including the recent advances in such areas as high-temperature photomagnetism, optical thermometry utilizing SMMs, optical addressability of molecular qubits, magneto-chiral dichroism, and opto-magneto-electric multifunctionality. These findings are discussed in the context of the types of optical phenomena accessible for various classes of molecule-based magnetic materials.

Photoswitching the fluorescence of nanoparticles for advanced optical applications

The dynamic optical response properties and the distinct features of nanomaterials make photoswitchable fluorescent nanoparticles (PF NPs) attractive candidates for advanced optical applications. Over the past few decades, the design of PF NPs by coupling photochromic and fluorescent motifs at the nanoscale has been actively pursued, and substantial efforts have been made to exploit their potential applications. In this perspective, we critically summarize various design principles for fabricating these PF NPs. Then, we discuss their distinct optical properties from different aspects by highlighting the capability of NPs in fabricating new, robust photoswitch systems. Afterwards, we introduce the pivotal role of PF NPs in advanced optical applications, including sensing, anti-counterfeiting and imaging. Finally, current challenges and future development of PF NPs are briefly discussed.

Dicyanorhodanine-Pyrrole Conjugates for Visible Light-Driven Quantitative Photoswitching in Solution and the Solid State

Small molecule photoswitches capable of toggling between two distinct molecular states in response to light are versatile tools to monitor biological processes, control photochemistry, and design smart materials. In this work, six novel dicyanorhodanine-based pyrrole-containing photoswitches are reported. The molecular design avails both the Z and E isomers from synthesis, where each can be isolated using chromatographic techniques. Inter- and intramolecular hydrogen bonding (H-bonding) interactions available to the E and Z isomers, respectively, uniquely impart thermal stability to each isomer over long time periods. Photoisomerization could be assessed by solution NMR and UV-vis spectroscopic techniques along with complementary ground- and excited-state computational studies, which show good agreement. Quantitative E → Z isomerization occurs upon 523 nm irradiation of the parent compound (where R = H) in solution, whereas Z → E isomerization using 404 nm irradiation offers a photostationary state (PSS) ratio of 84/16 (E/Z). Extending the π-conjugation of the pyrrole unit (where R = p-C6H4-OMe) pushes the maximum absorption to the yellow-orange region of the visible spectrum and allows bidirectional quantitative isomerization with 404 and 595 nm excitation. Comparator molecules have been prepared to report how the presence or absence of H-bonding affects the photoswitching behavior. Finally, studies of the photoswitches in neat films and photoinactive polymer matrices reveal distinctive structural and optical properties of the Z and E isomers and ultimately afford reversible photoswitching to spectrally unique PSSs using visible light sources including the Sun.

Selectivity in the chiral self-assembly of nucleobase-arylazopyrazole photoswitches along DNA templates

The control of supramolecular DNA assembly through external stimuli such as light represents a promising approach to control bioreactions, and modulate hybridization or delivery processes. Here, we report on the design of nucleobase-containing arylazopyrazole photoswitches that undergo chiral organization upon self-assembly along short DNA templates. Chiroptical spectroscopy shows that the specific nucleobases allow selectivity in the resulting supramolecular DNA complexes, and UV light irradiation triggers partial desorption of the arylazopyrazole photoswitches. Molecular modeling studies reveal the differences of binding modes between the two configurations in the templated assembly. Remarkably, our results show that the photoswitching behaviour controls the self-assembly process along DNA, opening the way to potential applications as nano- and biomaterials.

Amplifying dual-visible-light photoswitching in aqueous media via confinement promoted triplet-triplet energy transfer

Achieving visible-light photochromism is a long-term goal of chemists keen to exploit the opportunities of molecular photoswitches in multi-disciplinary research studies. Triplet-sensitization offers a flexible approach to building diverse visible-light photoswitches using existing photochromic scaffolds, circumventing the need for sophisticated molecular design and synthesis. Unfortunately, distance-dependence and environment-sensitivity of triplet-excited species remain as key challenges that severely impair sensitization efficiency and limit their practical availability. We present herein a nature-inspired nanoconfinement strategy in which a triplet-sensitized visible-light photoswitch/sensitizer system is assembled into nanoconfined micelles (d ∼ 40 nm). A ca. 10-fold efficiency increase of triplet-triplet energy transfer for photochromism as well as an amplified fluorescence on/off contrast upon bi-directional visible-light excitation (470/560 nm) was achieved in full aqueous media. By virtue of this, the hybrid photoswitchable system is successfully applied for both flash information encryption and multiple dynamic cell imaging assays, further proving its versatility in materials and life science.

Reversible open-closed conformational switching of nano-size metalloporphyrin dimers triggered by light and temperature

The current work demonstrates the reversible control of substantial molecular motion in 'nano-sized' molecules, where two structural isomers can 'open' and 'close' their cavities in response to light or heat. The isomers differ widely in their photophysical properties, including colour, polarity, two-photon absorption and π-conjugation, and can easily be separated through column chromatography and thus have wide applicability.

Photopharmacology of Protease Inhibitors: Current Status and Perspectives

Proteases are involved in many essential biological processes. Dysregulation of their activity underlies a wide variety of human diseases. Photopharmacology, as applied on various classes of proteins, has the potential to assist protease research by enabling spatiotemporal control of protease activity. Moreover, it may be used to decrease side-effects of protease-targeting drugs. In this review, we discuss the current status of the chemical design of photoactivatable proteases inhibitors and their biological application. Additionally, we give insight into future possibilities for further development of this field of research.

Aurones: Unexplored Visible-Light Photoswitches for Aqueous Medium

The development of synthetically accessible photoswitches showing an efficient performance in aqueous medium has recently become an urgent task due to the rapid progress of photopharmacology and novel biomedical applications. In response to this challenge, in this work, aurone derivatives are introduced as a novel class of efficient visible-light photoswitches for aqueous medium. In general, aurones exhibit superior performance in water, including significantly higher quantum yields, compared with other indigoid photoswitches (hemithioindigo and hemiindigo). Especially remarkable are the half-lives of the photoinduced E-isomers of aurones in water, reaching up to 7 years. Further modification of the aurone scaffold with substituents that increase water solubility does not affect most of the photoswitching characteristics and even improves some them. The highly advantageous property profile of the aurone photoswitches make them a perfect novel platform for the design of light-controllable systems in the areas requiring photoswitching in aqueous medium.

Geometry-Induced Oligomerization of Fluorine-Substituted Phenylazothiazole Photoswitches

Photoswitches are molecules that can absorb light of specific wavelengths and undergo a reversible transformation between their trans and cis isomeric forms. In phenylazo photoswitches, it is common for the less stable cis (Z) isomer to convert back to the more stable trans (E) isomer either through photochemical or thermal means. In this research, we designed new derivatives of phenylazothiazole (PAT) photoswitches, PAT-Fn, which feature fluorine substituents on their phenyl component. These derivatives can reversibly isomerize under visible light exposure with the enrichment of E and Z isomers at photostationary state (PSS). Surprisingly, we observed an unconventional phenomenon when these PAT-Fn (n≧2) photoswitches were in their cis isomeric state in the absence of light. Instead of the anticipated transformation from cis to trans isomer, these compounds converted to an oligomeric compound. Our detailed experimental investigation and theoretical calculations, indicated the crucial role of fluorine substituents and the distinctive geometric arrangement of the cis isomer in driving the unexpected oligomerization process originating from the cis isomeric state.

Design of Functional Globular β-Sheet Miniproteins

The design of discrete β-sheet peptides is far less advanced than e. g. the design of α-helical peptides. The reputation of β-sheet peptides as being poorly soluble and aggregation-prone often hinders active design efforts. Here, we show that this reputation is unfounded. We demonstrate this by looking at the β-hairpin and WW domain. Their structure and folding have been extensively studied and they have long served as model systems to investigate protein folding and folding kinetics. The resulting fundamental understanding has led to the development of hyperstable β-sheet scaffolds that fold at temperatures of 100 °C or high concentrations of denaturants. These have been used to design functional miniproteins with protein or nucleic acid binding properties, in some cases with such success that medical applications are conceivable. The β-sheet scaffolds are not always completely rigid, but can be specifically designed to respond to changes in pH, redox potential or presence of metal ions. Some engineered β-sheet peptides also exhibit catalytic properties, although not comparable to those of natural proteins. Previous reviews have focused on the design of stably folded and non-aggregating β-sheet sequences. In our review, we now also address design strategies to obtain functional miniproteins from β-sheet folding motifs.

Photocontrolled Binding of Styrylnaphthyridine Ligands to Abasic Site-Containing DNA by Reversible [2+2] Cycloaddition and Cycloreversion

Five novel styrylnaphthyridine derivatives were synthesized and shown to operate as photoswitchable, selective ligands for abasic site-containing DNA (AP-DNA), which is an important therapeutic and diagnostic target. These compounds associate with AP-DNA with binding constants of 0.5-8.4×104 M-1 as shown by photometric and fluorimetric titrations. Specifically, these ligands bind preferentially to AP-DNA relative to regularly paired duplex DNA. As a special feature, the association of these ligands with DNA can be controlled by means of a reversible [2+2] photocycloaddition. Upon irradiation at 420 nm the photodimer is formed, which does not bind to AP-DNA. In turn, the naphthyridine is regained with excitation at 315 nm. Most notably, this photoinduced deactivation and release of the DNA ligand can be performed in situ in the presence of AP-DNA, thus providing a tool for on-demand delivery of a DNA binder. Overall, these results provide a promising starting point for the development of functional AP-DNA ligands whose bioactivity can be modulated by light with local and temporal control.

Ultra-photostable small-molecule dyes facilitate near-infrared biophotonics

Long-wavelength, near-infrared small-molecule dyes are attractive in biophotonics. Conventionally, they rely on expanded aromatic structures for redshift, which comes at the cost of application performance such as photostability, cell permeability, and functionality. Here, we report a ground-state antiaromatic strategy and showcase the concise synthesis of 14 cationic aminofluorene dyes with mini structures (molecular weights: 299-504 Da) and distinct spectra covering 700-1600 nm. Aminofluorene dyes are cell-permeable and achieve rapid renal clearance via a simple 44 Da carboxylation. This accelerates optical diagnostics of renal injury by 50 min compared to existing macromolecular approaches. We develop a compact molecular sensing platform for in vivo intracellular sensing, and demonstrate the versatile applications of these dyes in multispectral fluorescence and optoacoustic imaging. We find that aromaticity reversal upon electronic excitation, as indicated by magnetic descriptors, not only reduces the energy bandgap but also induces strong vibronic coupling, resulting in ultrafast excited-state dynamics and unparalleled photostability. These results support the argument for ground-state antiaromaticity as a useful design rule of dye development, enabling performances essential for modern biophotonics.

Well-Defined Oligo(azobenzene-graft-mannose): Photostimuli Supramolecular Self-Assembly and Immune Effect Regulation

The immune system can recognize and respond to pathogens of various shapes. Synthetic materials that can change their shape have the potential to be used in vaccines and immune regulation. The ability of supramolecular assemblies to undergo reversible transformations in response to environmental stimuli allows for dynamic changes in their shapes and functionalities. A meticulously designed oligo(azobenzene-graft-mannose) was synthesized using a stepwise iterative method and "click" chemistry. This involved integrating hydrophobic and photoresponsive azobenzene units with hydrophilic and bioactive mannose units. The resulting oligomer, with its precise structure, displayed versatile assembly morphologies and chiralities that were responsive to light. These varying assembly morphologies demonstrated distinct capabilities in terms of inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells and stimulating the maturation of dendritic cells. These discoveries contribute to the theoretical comprehension and advancement of photoswitchable bioactive materials.

Cluster perturbation theory IX: Perturbation series for the coupled cluster singles and doubles ground state energy

In this paper, we develop and analyze a number of perturbation series that target the coupled cluster singles and doubles (CCSD) ground state energy. We show how classical Møller-Plesset perturbation theory series can be restructured to target the CCSD energy based on a reference CCS calculation and how the corresponding cluster perturbation series differs from the classical Møller-Plesset perturbation series. Subsequently, we reformulate these series using the coupled cluster Lagrangian framework to obtain series, where fourth and fifth order energies are determined only using parameters through second order. To test the methods, we perform a series of test calculations on molecular photoswitches of both total energies and reaction energies. We find that the fifth order reaction energies are of CCSD quality and that they are of comparable accuracy to state-of-the-art approximations to the CCSD energy based on local pair natural orbitals. The advantage of the present approach over local correlation methods is the absence of user defined threshold parameters for neglecting or approximating contributions to the correlation energy. Fixed threshold parameters lead to discontinuous energy surfaces, although this effect is often small enough to be ignored, but the present approach has a differentiable energy that will facilitate derivation and implementation of gradients and higher derivatives. A further advantage is that the calculation of the perturbation correction is non-iterative and can, therefore, be calculated in parallel, leading to a short time-to-solution.

Exploring Emergent Properties in Enzymatic Reaction Networks: Design and Control of Dynamic Functional Systems

The intricate and complex features of enzymatic reaction networks (ERNs) play a key role in the emergence and sustenance of life. Constructing such networks in vitro enables stepwise build up in complexity and introduces the opportunity to control enzymatic activity using physicochemical stimuli. Rational design and modulation of network motifs enable the engineering of artificial systems with emergent functionalities. Such functional systems are useful for a variety of reasons such as creating new-to-nature dynamic materials, producing value-added chemicals, constructing metabolic modules for synthetic cells, and even enabling molecular computation. In this review, we offer insights into the chemical characteristics of ERNs while also delving into their potential applications and associated challenges.

Photoswitchable imines: aryliminopyrazoles quantitatively convert to long-lived Z-isomers with visible light

Arylimines offer promise in dynamic-covalent materials due to their recyclability and ease of synthesis. However, their light-triggered E/Z isomerism has received little attention. This is attributed to challenges that include low thermal stability of their metastable state (<60 s at 20 °C), incomplete photoswitching (<50% to the metastable state), and the need for UV light (≤365 nm). We overcome these limitations with a novel class of imine photoswitch, the aryliminopyrazoles (AIPs). These AIPs can be switched using visible light (470 nm), attain photostationary states with over 95% of the Z-isomer, exhibit great resistance to fatigue, and have thermal half-lives up to 19.2 hours at room temperature. Additionally, they display T-type and negative photochromism under visible light irradiation-a useful property. The photochromic properties, quantitative assembly and accessibility of precursors set these photoswitches apart from their azo-based analogues. These findings open avenues for next-generation photoresponsive dynamic-covalent materials driven solely by these new photochromic linkages and further exploration of photocontrolled dynamic combinatorial chemistry.

Multiple control of azoquinoline based molecular photoswitches

Multi-addressable molecular switches with high sophistication are creating intensive interest, but are challenging to control. Herein, we incorporated ring-chain dynamic covalent sites into azoquinoline scaffolds for the construction of multi-responsive and multi-state switching systems. The manipulation of ring-chain equilibrium by acid/base and dynamic covalent reactions with primary/secondary amines allowed the regulation of E/Z photoisomerization. Moreover, the carboxyl and quinoline motifs provided recognition handles for the chelation of metal ions and turning off photoswitching, with otherwise inaccessible Z-isomer complexes obtained via the change of stimulation sequence. Particularly, the distinct metal binding behaviors of primary amine and secondary amine products offered a facile way for modulating E/Z switching and dynamic covalent reactivity. As a result, multiple control of azoarene photoswitches was accomplished, including light, pH, metal ions, and amine nucleophiles, with interplay between diverse stimuli further enabling addressable multi-state switching within reaction networks. The underlying structural and mechanistic insights were elucidated, paving the way for the creation of complex switching systems, molecular assemblies, and intelligent materials.

Photoinduced dual bond rotation of a nitrogen-containing system realized by chalcogen substitution

Photoinduced concerted multiple-bond rotation has been proposed in some biological systems. However, the observation of such phenomena in synthetic systems, in other words, the synthesis of molecules that undergo photoinduced multiple-bond rotation upon photoirradiation, has been a challenge in the photochemistry field. Here we describe a chalcogen-substituted benzamide system that exhibits photoinduced dual bond rotation in heteroatom-containing bonds. Introduction of the chalcogen substituent into a sterically hindered benzamide system provides sufficient kinetic stability and photosensitivity to enable the photoinduced concerted rotation. The presence of two different substituents on the phenyl ring in the thioamide derivative enables the generation of a pair of enantiomers and E/Z isomers. Using these four stereoisomers as indicators of which bonds are rotated, we monitor the photoinduced C-N/C-C concerted bond rotation in the thioamide derivative depending on external stimuli such as temperature and photoirradiation. Theoretical calculations provide insight on the mechanism of this selective photoinduced C-N/C-C concerted rotation.

Revisiting Peri-Aryloxyquinones: From a Forgotten Photochromic System to a Promising Tool for Emerging Applications

Emerging applications of photochromic compounds demand new molecular designs that can be inspired by some long-known yet currently forgotten classes of photoswitches. In the present review, we remind the community about Peri-AryloxyQuinones (PAQs) and their unique photoswitching behavior originally discovered more than 50 years ago. At the heart of this phenomenon is the light-induced migration of an aromatic moiety (arylotropy) in peri-aryloxy-substituted quinones resulting in ana-quinones. PAQs feature absorbance of both isomers in the visible spectral region, photochromism in the amorphous and crystalline state, and thermal stability of the photogenerated ana-isomer. Particularly noticeable is the high sensitivity of the ana-isomer towards nucleophiles in solution. In addition to the mechanism of molecular photochromism and the underlaying structure-switch relationships, we analyze potential applications and prospects of aryloxyquinones in optically switchable materials and devices. Due to their ability to efficiently photoswitch in the solid state, PAQs are indeed attractive candidates for such materials and devices, including electronics (optically controllable circuits, switches, transistors, memories, and displays), porous crystalline materials, crystalline actuators, photoactivated sensors, and many more. This review is intended to serve as a guide for researchers who wish to use photoswitchable PAQs in the development of new photocontrollable materials, devices, and processes.

Diaryltriazolium Photoswitch: Reaching a Millisecond Cycloreversion with High Stability and NIR Absorption

The exceptional thermal stability of diarylethene closed isomers enabled many applications but also prevented utilization in photochromic systems that require rapid thermal reversibility. Herein, we report the diaryltriazolium (DAT+ ) photoswitch undergoing thermal cycloreversion within a few milliseconds and absorption of the closed form in the near-infrared region above 900 nm. Click chemistry followed by alkylation offers modular and fast access to the electron-deficient DAT+ scaffold. In addition to excellent fatigue resistance, the introduced charge increases water solubility, rendering this photoswitch an ideal candidate for exploring biological applications.

Visible Light Control over the Cytolytic Activity of a Toxic Pore-Forming Protein

Enabling control over the bioactivity of proteins with light, along with the principles of photopharmacology, has the potential to generate safe and targeted medical treatments. Installing light sensitivity in a protein can be achieved through its covalent modification with a molecular photoswitch. The general challenge in this approach is the need for the use of low energy visible light for the regulation of bioactivity. In this study, we report visible light control over the cytolytic activity of a protein. A water-soluble visible-light-operated tetra-ortho-fluoro-azobenzene photoswitch was synthesized by utilizing the nucleophilic aromatic substitution reaction for installing a solubilizing sulfonate group onto the electron-poor photoswitch structure. The azobenzene was attached to two cysteine mutants of the pore-forming protein fragaceatoxin C (FraC), and their respective activities were evaluated on red blood cells. For both mutants, the green-light-irradiated sample, containing predominantly the cis-azobenzene isomer, was more active compared to the blue-light-irradiated sample. Ultimately, the same modulation of the cytolytic activity pattern was observed toward a hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. These results constitute the first case of using low energy visible light to control the biological activity of a toxic protein.

Boosting the photo-switchability of double-responsive water-soluble polymers by incorporating arylazopyrazole dyes

Dual thermo- and light-responsive water-soluble copolymers that respond to exclusively non-invasive triggers are obtained by functionalising poly(N,N-dimethylacrylamide) with arylazopyrazole side chains. The light-induced E-Z (trans-Z) photo isomerisation of these dyes provides an exceptionally effective photo-switch, which can reversibly shift the LCST-type phase transition temperatures by almost 25 K.

What Happens to a Pyrrole Hemithioindigo Photoswitch Trapped in a Fluorescent Protein?

Artificial molecular photoswitches that can be reversibly controlled into different configurations by external light stimulation have broad application prospects in various fields, such as materials and chemical biology. Among them, the pyrrole hemithioindigo (PHT) photoswitch has a geometric structure similar to that of the fluorescent protein chromophore. What happens when the chromophore is replaced by PHT, and does it achieve similar functions to the original one? To answer these questions, we carried out ONIOM(QM/MM) and classical molecular dynamics studies on the photoisomerization mechanism and spectroscopic properties of PHT in the fluorescent protein. The results showed that in the protein environment, the fate of excited PHT is governed by the competition between fluorescence emission and hula-twist isomerization. Due to the strong steric hindrance effects caused by the interlacing residues in the protein that restrict the PHT conformation transformation, the cis-to-trans isomerization process of PHT needs to overcome a barrier of at least 4.9 kcal/mol; thus, fluorescence emission is more dominant in competition. It is also found that the intermolecular interaction between LYS67 and the carbonyl oxygen of PHT has a significant effect on the fluorescence emission. These results revealed the photochemical reaction mechanism of a light-driven molecular switch in the fluorescent protein and provided further theoretical support for the field of chemical biology.

A Green-to-Near-Infrared Photoswitch Based on a Blended Subporphyrazine-Dithienylethene System

A subporphyrazine (SubPz)-dithienylethene (DTE) photochromic device with 1o and 1c states, was developed and characterized. In this device, the DTE unit can reversibly switch the SubPz absorbance from green to near-infrared [λmax (o/c) = 527 nm/740 nm], as well as the SubPz fluorescence and singlet oxygen quantum yields. The core of this design involves using a highly tunable SubPz chromophore that shares its quasi-isolated ethene moiety with a DTE photoswitch.

Rational Design of Stimuli-Responsive Inorganic 2D Materials via Molecular Engineering: Toward Molecule-Programmable Nanoelectronics

The ability of electronic devices to act as switches makes digital information processing possible. Succeeding graphene, emerging inorganic 2D materials (i2DMs) have been identified as alternative 2D materials to harbor a variety of active molecular components to move the current silicon-based semiconductor technology forward to a post-Moore era focused on molecule-based information processing components. In this regard, i2DMs benefits are not only for their prominent physiochemical properties (e.g., the existence of bandgap), but also for their high surface-to-volume ratio rich in reactive sites. Nonetheless, since this field is still in an early stage, having knowledge of both i) the different strategies for molecularly functionalizing the current library of i2DMs, and ii) the different types of active molecular components is a sine qua non condition for a rational design of stimuli-responsive i2DMs capable of performing logical operations at the molecular level. Consequently, this Review provides a comprehensive tutorial for covalently anchoring ad hoc molecular components-as active units triggered by different external inputs-onto pivotal i2DMs to assess their role in the expanding field of molecule-programmable nanoelectronics for electrically monitoring bistable molecular switches. Limitations, challenges, and future perspectives of this emerging field which crosses materials chemistry with computation are critically discussed.

Controlled Supramolecular Assemblies of Chiral Cyclometalated Gold (III) Amphiphiles in Aqueous Media

Gold (III) cyclometalated based amphiphiles in aqueous media have been revealed with excellent supramolecular transformations to external stimuli to open new pathways for soft functional material fabrications. Herein, we report a new chiral cyclometalated gold (III) amphiphile (GA) assembling into lamellar nanostructures in aqueous media confirmed with transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Counterion exchange with D-, L-, or racemic-camphorsulfonates features the significant supramolecular helicity enhancements, enabling transformations of GA from lamellar structure to vesicles and to nanotubes with multi-equivalents of counterion. The limited cytotoxicity of GA in aqueous media exhibits good biocompatibility.

Tailoring Multicontrolled Supramolecular Assemblies of Stiff-Stilbene Amphiphiles into Macroscopic Soft Scaffolds as Cell-Material Interfaces

Biocompatible synthetic supramolecular systems have shed light on biomedical and tissue-regenerative material applications. The intrinsic functional applicability, tunability, and stimuli-responsiveness of synthetic supramolecular systems allow one to develop various multicontrolled supramolecular assemblies in aqueous media. However, it remains highly challenging to use state-of-the-art supramolecular assemblies of photoresponsive amphiphiles controlled by multiple stimulations in fabricating macroscopic materials. Herein, we demonstrate a stiff-stilbene amphiphile (SA) multicontrolled supramolecular assembling system that comprises two different charged end groups. The excellent photoswitchabilities of SA in both organic and aqueous media are demonstrated. Furthermore, multiple stimuli, i.e., light, pH, and counterions, are applied to control the supramolecular assembling behaviors, which are monitored by circular dichroism spectroscopy and electron microscopies. This multicontrolled supramolecular system can be systematically assembled into macroscopic soft functional scaffolds, whose structural parameters are investigated by electron microscopies and X-ray diffraction techniques, suggesting the large aspect ratio of SA nanostructures assembled into macroscopic soft scaffolds. The fabricated soft functional scaffold is highly biocompatible for photocontrolled biotarget encapsulation/release selectively, as well as a cell-material interface for diverse cells' attachment. This new synthetic multicontrolled soft functional material provides a new strategy toward the development of next-generation controllable and biocompatible soft functional materials.

Activation of Anthraquinone's Electrophilicity by Light for a Dynamic C-O Bond

Coupling of photoswitching with dynamic covalent chemistry enables control of the formation and cleavage of covalent bonds by light irradiation. peri-Aryloxyanthraquinones feature an exclusive ability to switch electrophilicity by interconversion between para- and ana-quinone isomers, which was used for the first time for the implementation of a dynamic C-O bond. Photogenerated ana-isomers undergo a concerted oxa-Michael addition of phenols to give hitherto unknown 4-hydroxy-10,10-diaryloxyanthracen-9-ones. These species were found to be in equilibrium with the corresponding ana-quinones, thus forming a dynamic covalent system of a new type. Withdrawal of the colored ana-quinones from the equilibria by visible light irradiation resulted in two para-quinones with "locked" aryloxy groups.

Optical modulation of cell nucleus penetration and singlet oxygen release of a switchable platinum complex

The activation of anticancer molecules with visible light constitutes an elegant strategy to target tumors and to improve the selectivity of treatments. In this context, we report here a visible-light activatable bis-platinum complex (DHP-Pt2) incorporating an organic photo-switchable ligand based on the dimethyldihydropyrene moiety. Illumination of this metal complex with red light (660 nm) under air readily produces the corresponding endoperoxide form (CPDO2-Pt2). These two metal complexes exhibit different DNA binding properties and, more importantly, we show that only the photogenerated CPDO2-Pt2 is able to penetrate into cancer cell nuclei, where it is then capable of releasing cytotoxic singlet oxygen. This study represents the first proof-of-concept showing that dimethyldihydropyrene derivatives can be used to transport and deliver singlet oxygen into cancer cell nuclei upon visible-light activation.

Internal Heavy-Atom Effect on Visible-Light-Induced Cyclization Reaction in Diarylethene-Perylenebisimide Dyads

All-visible-light switchable diarylethene-perylenebisimide (DAE-PBI) dyads having bromine heavy atoms in the molecule were designed and synthesized. Very recently, we found a unique visible-light-induced cyclization reaction in a DAE-PBI dyad. The dyad exhibited reversible cyclization and cycloreversion reactions upon alternate irradiation with green (500-550 nm) and red (>600 nm) light. From the experimental results, it was suggested that the triplet state of DAE unit was generated via multiplicity conversion based on intramolecular energy transfer from the singlet excited state of PBI unit and that the cyclization reaction of DAE unit proceeded from the triplet state. In addition, it was revealed that the reactivity remarkably increased in a solvent containing heavy atoms such as carbon tetrachloride and iodoethane (i.e., external heavy-atom effect). Based on such results, in this study, we attempted to design and synthesize novel DAE-PBI dyads introducing bromine heavy atoms at different positions in the molecule. The synthesized dyads exhibited higher quantum yields of photocyclization reaction under visible-light irradiation even in a heavy-atom-free solvent compared to the previous dyad having no heavy atoms. The magnitude of enhancement well correlated to the contribution ratio of atomic orbital of bromine to the molecular orbital in LUMOs. These results indicated that the internal heavy atom effectively contributed to the visible-light-induced cyclization reaction in DAE-PBI dyads. Such an internal heavy-atom effect will pave the way for new molecular design to develop all-visible-light-activatable molecular switches.

Photoswitchable coordination cages

Stimuli-responsive behaviour is key to the design of smart materials, surfaces, nano-systems and effector molecules, allowing their application as switchable catalysts, molecular transporters, bioimaging probes or caged drugs. Supramolecular chemistry has embraced the widespread integration of photoswitches because of their precise spatiotemporal addressability and waste-free nature. In the vibrant area of discrete metal-mediated self-assembly, however, photoswitches are still rarely employed. Only recently has it been shown that embedding photoswitches into the organic backbones of coordination cages enables control of their host and material properties and thus unlocks the hitherto unexploited dynamic adaptivity of such systems. Here we discuss four cases where triggering ligand-integrated photoswitches leads to (1) control over disassembly/reassembly, (2) bi-stable switching between defined states, (3) interplay with thermal processes in metastable systems and (4) light-fuelled dissipative self-assembly. We highlight first clues concerning the relationship between fundamental photophysics and dynamic assembly equilibria and propose directions for future development.

Photo-Controllable Smart Hydrogels for Biomedical Application: A Review

Nowadays, smart hydrogels are being widely studied by researchers because of their advantages such as simple preparation, stable performance, response to external stimuli, and easy control of response behavior. Photo-controllable smart hydrogels (PCHs) are a class of responsive hydrogels whose physical and chemical properties can be changed when stimulated by light at specific wavelengths. Since the light source is safe, clean, simple to operate, and easy to control, PCHs have broad application prospects in the biomedical field. Therefore, this review timely summarizes the latest progress in the PCHs field, with an emphasis on the design principles of typical PCHs and their multiple biomedical applications in tissue regeneration, tumor therapy, antibacterial therapy, diseases diagnosis and monitoring, etc. Meanwhile, the challenges and perspectives of widespread practical implementation of PCHs are presented in biomedical applications. This study hopes that PCHs will flourish in the biomedical field and this review will provide useful information for interested researchers.

Interrelations between Linkage Isomers of an Efficient Square-planar Nickel(II) Nitrite Photoswitch in the Solid State

An efficient nitrite nickel(II) photoswitch, with the 1-phenyl-2-hydroxyimino-3-[(2'-dimethylamino)ethyl]imino-1-propanone moiety used as the ancillary ligand, is reported. In the ground-state ('dark') crystal structure, the studied compound exists predominantly as the nitro-(η1 -N(O)2 ) isomer, however, traces of the exo- and endo-nitrito-(η1 -ONO) forms are detected both at 100 K (4-5 % each) and under ambient conditions (~9 % each). When excited with the 405-530 nm LED light, the nitro-to-nitrito isomerization takes place. The total conversion exceeds 90 %. The exo-nitrito linkage isomer constitutes the dominant photo-generated form, whereas the relative population of both nitrito species depends on temperature. The reaction is fully reversible and reproducible. The photo-products are stable up to 200 K. The system constitutes a good model case for the reaction mechanism studies. Thus, experimental and theoretical investigations on the photo-isomerism were conducted and are presented in detail. Eventually, the nitro→exo-nitrito→endo-nitrito reaction pathway is proposed.

Molecular Machines For The Control Of Transmembrane Transport

Nature embeds some of its molecular machinery, including ion pumps, within lipid bilayer membranes. This has inspired chemists to attempt to develop synthetic analogues to exploit membrane confinement and transmembrane potential gradients, much like their biological cousins. In this perspective, we outline the various strategies by which molecular machines─molecular systems in which a nanomechanical motion is exploited for function─have been designed to be incorporated within lipid membranes and utilized to mediate transmembrane ion transport. We survey molecular machines spanning both switches and motors, those that act as mobile carriers or that are anchored within the membrane, mechanically interlocked molecules, and examples that are activated in response to external stimuli.

Novel salicylic acid derivatives connecting to five-membered cycle through an acyl hydrazone bond as multi-stimuli responsive fluorescent smart materials with photoswitching properties

In order to exploit novel multi-stimuli responsive fluorescent materials, a series of novel fluorescent molecules of salicylic acid derivatives were designed and synthesized via introducing pyrazole or cyclopentane to the salicylic acid scaffold through a special Schiff base-acylhydrazone, and the molecular structures of representative compounds A2 and A4 were verified via single crystal X-ray diffraction. All title molecules could exhibit obvious solvatofluorochromism from cyan to indigo in several solutions with different polarity. The fluorescence titration data exhibited compound A2 and complex A2-Cu2+ with prime detection limits to Cu2+ (0.24 μM) and S2- ions (2.83 μM). The sensitive recognition of A2 to trifluoroacetic (TFA) and A2-TFA to triethylamine (TEA) were also confirmed via fluorescent titration experiments in various solutions, respectively. What's more, the 1H NMR and UV/Vis absorption spectra further explained the mechanism between molecules and ions or molecules and TFA/TEA. Besides, the photoswitching properties of the compounds A2 and A3 could be demonstrated via the irradiation of special wavelength light or heating accompanied with changes in quantum yields. In addition, these phenomena of multiple responses were explained via Density Functional Theory (DFT) based on the Gaussian calculations. Thus, this work provided a preliminary basis for the research of multi-stimuli responsive fluorescent molecules with photoswitching properties.

Visible light-induced switching of soft matter materials properties based on thioindigo photoswitches

Thioindigos are visible light responsive photoswitches with excellent spatial control over the conformational change between their trans- and cis- isomers. However, they possess limited solubility in all conventional organic solvents and polymers, hindering their application in soft matter materials. Herein, we introduce a strategy for the covalent insertion of thioindigo units into polymer main chains, enabling thioindigos to function within crosslinked polymeric hydrogels. We overcome their solubility issue by developing a thioindigo bismethacrylate linker able to undergo radical initiated thiol-ene reaction for step-growth polymerization, generating indigo-containing polymers. The optimal wavelength for the reversible trans-/cis- isomerisation of thioindigo was elucidated by constructing a detailed photochemical action plot of their switching efficiencies at a wide range of monochromatic wavelengths. Critically, indigo-containing polymers display significant photoswitching of the materials' optical and physical properties in organic solvents and water. Furthermore, the photoswitching of thioindigo within crosslinked structures enables visible light induced modulation of the hydrogel stiffness. Both the thioindigo-containing hydrogels and photoswitching processes are non-toxic to cells, thus offering opportunities for advanced applications in soft matter materials and biology-related research.

Nonadiabatic molecular dynamics simulations for ultrafast photo-induced ring-opening and isomerization reactions of 2,2-diphenyl-2H-chromene

Nonadiabatic molecular dynamics simulations with a global switching algorithm have been performed at the TD-CAM-B3LYP-D3/def2-SVP level of theory for ultrafast photo-induced ring-opening and isomerization reactions upon S1 excitation for 2,2-diphenyl-2H-chromene (DPC). Both DPC-T and DPC-C conformers undergo ring-opening relaxation and isomerization pathways accompanied with pyran conformation conserved and converted on the S1 or S0 states via competition and cooperation between C-O bond dissociation and pyran inversion motions. Upon S1 excitation, the DPC-T mainly relaxes to the T-type conical intersection region and thus yields a higher ring-opening efficiency with a faster S1 decay and intermediate formation than those of the DPC-C mainly relaxing to C-type conical intersection. The simulated ring-opening quantum yield for DPC-T (DPC-C) is 0.91 (0.76), which is in good agreement with the experimental value of 0.7-0.9, and the thermal weight averaged lifetimes are estimated as 182.0 fs, 228.6 fs, and 1262.4 fs for the excited-state decay, intermediate formation, and ring-opening product, respectively. These time constants are in good agreement with the experimentally measured τ1 time constant of 190-450 fs and τ2 time constant of 1000-1800 fs. The present work could be a valuable reference for understanding the nature of the photorelaxation mechanisms of DPC, and could help to develop DPC-based photoresponsive materials.

Water-Soluble Arylazoisoxazole Photoswitches

Azoheteroarenes are emerging as powerful alternatives to azobenzene molecular photoswitches. In this study, water-soluble arylazoisoxazole photoswitches are introduced. UV/vis and NMR spectroscopy revealed moderate to very good photostationary states and reversible photoisomerization between the E- and Z-isomers over multiple cycles with minimal photobleaching. Several arylazoisoxazoles form host-guest complexes with β- and γ-cyclodextrin with significant differences in binding constants for each photoisomer as shown by isothermal titration calorimetry and NMR experiments, indicating their potential for photoresponsive host-guest chemistry in water. One carboxylic acid functionalized arylazoisoxazole can act as a hydrogelator, allowing gel properties to be manipulated reversibly with light. The hydrogel was characterized by rheological experiments, atom force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. These results demonstrate that arylazoisoxazoles can find applications as molecular photoswitches in aqueous media.

Visible-Light-Triggered Photoswitching of Diphosphene Complexes

Although diphosphene transition metal complexes are known to undergo E to Z isomerization upon irradiation with UV light, their potential for photoswitching has remained poorly explored. In this study, we present diphosphene complexes capable of reversible photoisomerizations through haptotropic rearrangements. The compounds [(2-κ2 P,κ6 C)Mo(CO)2 ][OTf] (3 a[OTf]), [(2-κ2 P,κ6 C)Fe(CO)][OTf] (3 b[OTf]), and [(2-κ2 P)Fe(CO)4 ][OTf] (4[OTf]) were prepared using the triflate salt [(LC )P=P(Dipp)][OTf] (2[OTf) as a precursor (LC =4,5-dichloro-1,3-bis(2,6-diisiopropylphenyl)-imidazolin-2-yl; Dipp=2,6-diisiopropylphenyl, OTf=triflate). Upon exposure to blue or UV light (λ=400 nm, 470 nm), the initially red-colored η2 -diphosphene complexes 3 a,b[OTf] readily undergo isomerization to form blue-colored η1 -complexes [(2-κ1 P,κ6 C)M(CO)n ][OTf] (5 a,b[OTf]; a: M=Mo, n=2; b: M=Fe, n=1). This haptotropic rearrangement is reversible, and the (κ2 P,κ6 C)-coordination mode gradually reverts back upon dissolution in coordinating solvents or more rapidly upon exposure to yellow or red irradiation (λ=590 nm, 630 nm). The electronic reasons for the reversible visible-light-induced photoswitching observed for 3 a,b[OTf] are elucidated by DFT calculations. These calculations indicate that the photochromic isomerization originates from the S1 excited state and proceeds through a conical intersection.

Water-Soluble Azobenzene-Based Solar Thermal Fuels with Improved Long-Term Energy Storage and Energy Density

Azobenzene (azo)-based solar thermal fuels (STFs) have been developed to harvest and store solar energy. However, due to the lipophilicity and low energy density of azo-based STFs, the derived devices demand a large amount of toxic organic solvents for continuous and scalable energy storage. Herein, we report an ionic strategy to prepare water-soluble azo-based STFs (WASTFs) with improved energy storage performance, which can be realized through a facile quaternization reaction using commercial reagents. A family of WASTFs were synthesized, and all of them showed good water solubility, long-term thermal half-life (>30 days), and high energy storage density (a highest energy density of ∼143.6 J g-1 corresponding to an energy storage enthalpy of ∼111.8 kJ mol-1). Compared to the electrically neutral azo-based STFs with similar chemical structures, ΔH and thermal half-life (τ1/2) of the WASTFs are 2.5 times higher and 7.3 times longer, respectively. Cation-π interactions between the quaternized moieties [N+(CHx)4] and benzene moieties of azo were confirmed, which could account for their improvement of the energy storage performance. Macroscale heat release with an average temperature difference of ∼2 °C was achieved for the WASTFs prepared in this work. Generally, a novel family of WASTFs are synthesized and show great applicable prospects in fabricating advanced solar energy storage devices.

Light-Induced Dyotropic Rearrangement of Diarylethenes: Scope, Mechanism, and Prospects

Irreversible two-photon photorearrangement of 1,2-diarylethenes is a unique process providing access to complex 2a1 ,5a-dihydro-5,6-dithiaacenaphthylene (DDA) heterocyclic core. This reaction was serendipitously discovered during studies on photoswitchable diarylethenes and was initially considered as a highly undesired process. However, in recent years, it has been recognized as an efficient photochemical reaction, interesting by itself and as a promising synthetic method for the synthesis of challenging molecules. Herein, we discuss the state-of-the-art in studies on this notable process.

Photoswitchable Azoheteroarene-Based Chelating Ligands: Light Modulation of Properties, Aqueous Solubility and Catalysis

We report the design and synthesis of eight photoswitchable phenylazopyridine- and phenylazopyrazole-based molecular systems as chelation-type light-controllable ligands. Besides the studies on fundamental photoisomerization behaviour, the ligands were also screened for light-tuneable properties such as photochromism, phase transition, and solubility, especially in the aqueous medium. This investigation demonstrates how the modulation of aqueous solubility can be achieved through photoisomerization and can further be utilized towards controlling the amount of catalytically active Cu(I) species in the aqueous conditions. Through this approach, light control over the catalytic activity was achieved for Cu-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) reactions, along with a partial recovery of the catalytically active species.

Thermally Stable Photomechanical Molecular Hinge: Sterically Hindered Stiff-Stilbene Photoswitch Mechanically Isomerizes

Molecular photoswitches are extensively used as molecular machines because of the small structures, simple motions, and advantages of light including high spatiotemporal resolution. Applications of photoswitches depend on the mechanical responses, in other words, whether they can generate motions against mechanical forces as actuators or can be activated and controlled by mechanical forces as mechanophores. Sterically hindered stiff stilbene (HSS) is a promising photoswitch offering large hinge-like motions in the E/Z isomerization, high thermal stability of the Z isomer, which is relatively unstable compared to the E isomer, with a half-life of ca. 1000 years at room temperature, and near-quantitative two-way photoisomerization. However, its mechanical response is entirely unexplored. Here, we elucidate the mechanochemical reactivity of HSS by incorporating one Z or E isomer into the center of polymer chains, ultrasonicating the polymer solutions, and stretching the polymer films to apply elongational forces to the embedded HSS. The present study demonstrated that HSS mechanically isomerizes only in the Z to E direction and reversibly isomerizes in combination with UV light, i.e., works as a photomechanical hinge. The photomechanically inducible but thermally irreversible hinge-like motions render HSS unique and promise unconventional applications differently from existing photoswitches, mechanophores, and hinges.

2,3-Diarylmaleate salts as a versatile class of diarylethenes with a full spectrum of photoactivity in water

There is incessant interest in the transfer of common chemical processes from organic solvents to water, which is vital for the development of bioinspired and green chemical technologies. Diarylethenes feature a rich photochemistry, including both irreversible and reversible reactions that are in demand in organic synthesis, materials chemistry, and photopharmacology. Herein, we introduce the first versatile class of diarylethenes, namely, potassium 2,3-diarylmaleates (DAMs), that show excellent solubility in water. DAMs obtained from highly available precursors feature a full spectrum of photoactivity in water and undergo irreversible reactions (oxidative cyclization or rearrangement) or reversible photocyclization (switching), depending on their structure. This finding paves a way towards wider application of diarylethenes in photopharmacology and bioinspired technologies that require aqueous media for photochemical reactions.

A Doubly Dissipative System Driven by Chemical and Radiative Stimuli

The operation of a dissipative network composed of two or three different crown-ether receptors and an alkali metal cation can be temporally driven by the use (combined or not) of two orthogonal stimuli of a different nature. More specifically, irradiation with light at a proper wavelength and/or addition of an activated carboxylic acid, are used to modulate the binding capability of the above crown-ethers towards the metal ion, allowing to control over time the occupancy of the metal cation in the crown-ether moiety of a given ligand. Thus, application of either or both of the stimuli to an initially equilibrated system, where the metal cation is distributed among the crown-ether receptors depending on the different affinities, causes a programmable change in the receptor occupancies. Consequently, the system is induced to evolve to one or more out-of-equilibrium states with different distributions of the metal cation among the different receptors. When the fuel is exhausted or/and the irradiation interrupted, the system reversibly and autonomously goes back to the initial equilibrium state. Such results may contribute to the achievement of new dissipative systems that, taking advantage of multiple and orthogonal stimuli, are featured with more sophisticated operating mechanisms and time programmability.

How do donor and acceptor substituents change the photophysical and photochemical behavior of dithienylethenes? The search for a water-soluble visible-light photoswitch

Dithienylethenes are a type of diarylethene and they constitute one of the most widely studied classes of photoswitch, yet there have been no systematic studies of how electron-donor or -acceptor substituents affect their properties. Here we report eight dithienylethenes bearing push-push, pull-pull and push-pull substitution patterns with different lengths of conjugation in the backbone and investigate their photophysical and photochemical properties. Donor-acceptor interactions in the closed forms of push-pull dithienylethenes shift their absorption spectra into the near-infrared region (λmax ≈ 800 nm). The push-pull systems also exhibit low quantum yields for photochemical electrocyclization, and computational studies indicate that this can be attributed to stabilization of the parallel, rather than anti-parallel, conformations. The pull-pull systems have the highest quantum yields for switching in both directions, ring-closure and ring-opening. The chloride salt of a pull-pull DTE, with alkynes on both arms, is the first water-soluble dithienylethene that can achieve >95% photostationary state distribution in both directions with visible light. It has excellent fatigue resistance: in aqueous solution on irradiation at 365 nm, the photochemical quantum yields for switching and decomposition are 0.15 and 2.6 × 10-5 respectively, i.e. decomposition is more than 5000 times slower than photoswitching. These properties make it a promising candidate for biological applications such as super-resolution microscopy and photopharmacology.

Controlling the Structure and Morphology of Organic Nanofilaments Using External Stimuli

In our continuing pursuit to generate, understand, and control the morphology of organic nanofilaments formed by molecules with a bent molecular shape, we here report on two bent-core molecules specifically designed to permit a phase or morphology change upon exposure to an applied electric field or irradiation with UV light. To trigger a response to an applied electric field, conformationally rigid chiral (S,S)-2,3-difluorooctyloxy side chains were introduced, and to cause a response to UV light, an azobenzene core was incorporated into one of the arms of the rigid bent core. The phase behavior as well as structure and morphology of the formed phases and nanofilaments were analyzed using differential scanning calorimetry, cross-polarized optical microscopy, circular dichroism spectropolarimetry, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, UV-vis spectrophotometry, as well as X-ray diffraction experiments. Both bent-core molecules were characterized by the coexistence of two nanoscale morphologies, specifically helical nanofilaments (HNFs) and layered nanocylinders, prior to exposure to an external stimulus and independent of the cooling rate from the isotropic liquid. The application of an electric field triggers the disappearance of crystalline nanofilaments and instead leads to the formation of a tilted smectic liquid crystal phase for the material featuring chiral difluorinated side chains, whereas irradiation with UV light results in the disappearance of the nanocylinders and the sole formation of HNFs for the azobenzene-containing material. Combined results of this experimental study reveal that in addition to controlling the rate of cooling, applied electric fields and UV irradiation can be used to expand the toolkit for structural and morphological control of suitably designed bent-core molecule-based structures at the nanoscale.

First-in-Class Colchicine-Based Visible Light Photoswitchable Microtubule Dynamics Disrupting Agent

Compounds that disrupt microtubule dynamics, such as colchicine, paclitaxel, or Vinca alkaloids, have been broadly used in biological studies and have found application in clinical anticancer medications. However, their main disadvantage is the lack of specificity towards cancerous cells, leading to severe side effects. In this paper, we report the first synthesis of 12 new visible light photoswitchable colchicine-based microtubule inhibitors AzoCols. Among the obtained compounds, two photoswitches showed light-dependent cytotoxicity in cancerous cell lines (HCT116 and MCF-7). The most promising compound displayed a nearly twofold increase in potency. Moreover, dissimilar inhibition of purified tubulin polymerisation in cell-free assay and light-dependent disruption of microtubule organisation visualised by immunofluorescence imaging sheds light on the mechanism of action as microtubule photoswitchable destabilisers. The presented results provide a foundation towards the synthesis and development of a novel class of photoswitchable colchicine-based microtubule polymerisation inhibitors.

Switching between DNA binding modes with a photo- and redox-active DNA-targeting ligand, part II: the influence of the substitution pattern

A disulfide-functionalized photoactive DNA ligand is presented that enables the control of its DNA-binding properties by a combination of a photocycloaddition reaction and the redox reactivity of the sulfide/disulfide functionalities. In particular, the initially applied ligand binds to DNA by a combination of intercalation and groove-binding of separate benzo[b]quinolizinium units. The association to DNA is interrupted by an intramolecular [4 + 4] photocycloaddition to the non-binding head-to-head cyclomers. In turn, the subsequent cleavage of these cyclomers with dithiothreitol (DTT) regains temporarily a DNA-intercalating benzoquinolizinium ligand that is eventually converted into a non-binding benzothiophene. As a special feature, this sequence of controlled deactivation, recovery and internal shut-off of DNA-binding properties can be performed directly in the presence of DNA.