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Encoding Biological Selectivity Through Positional Isomerism of Phosphindole Oxide AIEgens for Targeted Photodynamic
Jianqing Li1, Zeyan Zhuang1, Yiwen Liao2
1State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and Devices, Key Laboratory of Luminescence from Molecular Aggregates of Guangdong Province, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China.
Advanced Materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)
|July 22, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a programmable molecular strategy using phosphindole oxide (PIO) isomers for precise biological targeting. This approach enables selective cell labeling and demonstrates potential for cancer therapy and wound healing.
Area of Science:
- Chemical Biology
- Molecular Engineering
- Biophysics
Background:
- Classical lock-and-key recognition for biological targets is limited by simplistic design.
- Biophysical signatures offer an alternative but require sophisticated molecular strategies.
- Developing programmable molecular tools for selective biological discrimination is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a programmable molecular strategy for encoding biological selectivity using configurational isomerism.
- To demonstrate how isomeric variations on a phosphindole oxide (PIO) scaffold influence biological interactions.
- To explore the therapeutic potential of PIO isomers in cancer and infectious diseases.
Main Methods:
- Synthesized phosphindole oxide (PIO) derivatives with strategic substitutions to create isomeric pairs.
- Investigated the distinct conformational preferences, self-assembly behaviors, and electrostatic landscapes of these isomers.
- Evaluated the biological staining patterns and therapeutic efficacy in vitro and in vivo.
Main Results:
- Isomeric PIO compounds exhibited divergent biophysical properties and biological interactions.
- One isomer selectively labeled cancer cells and bacteria, while the other acted as a broad-spectrum agent.
- Integrated PIO photodynamic activity led to effective in vivo tumor suppression and accelerated wound healing.
Conclusions:
- Positional isomerism is a generalizable design principle for achieving biophysical selectivity in molecular targeting.
- This strategy provides a foundation for developing next-generation theranostic and precision medicine platforms.
- The PIO scaffold offers a versatile platform for programmable molecular design with therapeutic applications.
