Responsive Chiral Lanthanide Probes.
Lead Research Organisation:
Durham University
Department Name: Chemistry
Abstract
A series of highly emissive coordination complexes of the rare earth elements will be made, in which the observed luminescence varies with the nature of the local environment. In particular, systems that respond to variation of pH will be created, that are suitable for use in vitro and in cellulo. These systems will be designed to show enhanced luminescence under more acidic conditions. In addition, a range of chiral europium complexes will be studied in which the circularly polarised emission signal is modulated selectively by the presence of selected chiral species, both in spectroscopy and in microscopy.
Organisations
People |
ORCID iD |
| David Parker (Primary Supervisor) | |
| Jack Fradgley (Student) |
Studentship Projects
| Project Reference | Relationship | Related To | Start | End | Student Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP/N509462/1 | 01/10/2016 | 30/09/2021 | |||
| 1930923 | Studentship | EP/N509462/1 | 01/10/2017 | 31/03/2021 | Jack Fradgley |
| Description | We have synthesised a parent series of highly emissive coordination complexes with the rare earth element europium. These complexes feature a pH-sensitive chemical group in their structure, resulting in a significant increase in the observed luminescence properties as the pH is decreased from 9 to 4. When incubated with living cells, the complexes are observed to be taken up rapidly and demonstrate high brightness and low toxicity. Following these promising results, we have prepared several further complexes with several appropriate synthetic modifications to the parent series utilising our chemical expertise, optimising the properties. One notable modification is the introduction of a chemical group allowing the attachment of the complex to a biomolecule of interest. We are currently in the process of testing these compounds, with the assistance of a biochemical company, to assess the viability of monitoring the internalisation of a significant biomolecule of key interest in a cellular medium. In addition to novel research, this award has also facilitated professional development for the junior researchers involved as well as specialist training in numerous photophysical techniques. |
| Exploitation Route | The preliminary results from the testing of the synthesised europium complexes described highlight the potential of these compounds for several uses. We hope to utilise a collaboration with an academic research group with specialised knowledge and equipment, complimentary to our own, to further our understanding of why these complexes behave as they do. We also hope that these complexes will prove viable for a commercial use in the biochemical field. |
| Sectors | Other |
| Title | Europium(III) complexes as pH sensors |
| Description | A series of hydrophilic pH responsive europium(III) complexes whose luminescence emission is switched on by over two magnitude during acidification have been designed and synthesised. These complexes feature chemical functionality allowing for them to be conjugated to a suitable biological vector, and have utility in monitoring acidification in living cells or in any chemical-biological event generating pH modification. |
| IP Reference | 20206296.3 |
| Protection | Patent application published |
| Year Protection Granted | |
| Licensed | No |
| Impact | - |