Aza-BODIPY-based logic gate chemosensors and their applications

Dimethylaniline-substituted aza-BODIPY dyes (DA, DM, DP) were designed and synthesized aiming for ion detection. The Zn²⁺ recognition ability was found in all compounds and the binding mechanism was possibly via dimethylaniline sites linked to the aza-BODIPY core. Upon Zn²⁺ addition, the new absorption band and the color change occurred due to the altered charge transfer of the adducts. The custom-made colorimeter was successfully integrated into the dye's application, demonstrating a good linear relationship between resistance values and Zn²⁺ concentration. The chromophore test strips were fabricated and exhibited distinct color changes upon aqueous Zn²⁺ exposure. The compound DA also exhibits logical behavior with DA-Zn²⁺-Cu²⁺ system. In terms of environmental hazards, the compounds exhibited no adverse effect on Pseudomonas putida at the concentration level of 0.2 mg/mL. These findings indicated that all synthesized aza-BODIPYs might be suitable for chemosensor probes for Zn²⁺ detection with possibly low environmental risk.