Fluorescence detection of phenylethylamine based on Cucurbit[7]uril supramolecular assemblies

Area of Science:

• Supramolecular chemistry
• Analytical chemistry
• Toxicology

Background:

• Phenethylamine (PEA) is a psychoactive substance linked to health risks.
• A novel supramolecular assembly, N1@Q[7], was created using cucurbit[7]uril (Q[7]) and a bromophenylpyridine derivative (N1).

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a sensitive and selective fluorescent probe for phenethylamine (PEA) detection.
• To investigate the supramolecular interactions governing the probe's response to PEA.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of the N1@Q[7] supramolecular assembly.
• Fluorescence spectroscopy to monitor the interaction between N1@Q[7] and various amines, including PEA.
• Simulation of PEA detection in real urine samples.

Main Results:

• The N1@Q[7] assembly forms a 1:1 inclusion complex with a distinct structural arrangement.
• PEA addition caused a significant decrease in fluorescence intensity and a red shift, indicating specific binding.
• The probe demonstrated high sensitivity and selectivity for PEA, even in the presence of other urine components.

Conclusions:

• The N1@Q[7] supramolecular assembly serves as an effective fluorescent probe for PEA detection.
• This method offers a new approach for identifying drugs and their metabolites in biological samples.
• Visual detection of PEA is achievable through fluorescence color changes at varying concentrations.