Simple cyclic chalcone dye with multiple optical functions: Piezochromism and lysosomes staining

Area of Science:

• Organic Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Cyclic chalcones are known for biological activities, but their photophysical properties are underexplored.
• Limited research exists on the photophysical characteristics of cyclic chalcone derivatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and synthesize a novel small molecule fluorescent dye based on the intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) effect.
• To investigate the photophysical properties, specifically piezochromism, of the synthesized cyclic chalcone derivative.
• To explore the potential application of the dye in biological imaging, such as lysosomal targeting.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a small molecule fluorescent dye (YB) utilizing dimethylamino as an electron-donating group and carbonyl as an electron-withdrawing group.
• In-depth investigation of photophysical properties, including fluorescence spectroscopy and response to mechanical stress (grinding).
• Evaluation of the dye's performance in lysosomal targeting in biological systems.

Main Results:

• The synthesized dye, YB, exhibits significant piezochromic properties, changing fluorescence from green to yellow upon grinding.
• The observed color change is reversible, with fluorescence reverting to green after solvent fumigation.
• Successful application of YB for lysosomal targeting, demonstrating its utility in biological imaging.

Conclusions:

• This research expands the understanding of photophysical properties in cyclic chalcone compounds.
• The developed fluorescent dye YB offers a novel material with tunable optical properties and potential for bioimaging applications.
• The study highlights the versatility of cyclic chalcones beyond their known biological activities.