Riboflavin: a potential material for molecular electronics applications

Riboflavin (Rbf), the simplest manifestation of the isoalloxazine ring, undergoes redox reactions during biochemical processes. The redox reaction can be simulated under electrochemical conditions. The two oxidation states of the isoalloxazine molecule have different optical properties. Rbf embedded in a polyurethane matrix has been shown to undergo colour change on application of an external electric field. Rbf has been modified to form TARbf and TPRbf--the amphiphilic analogues for the convenience of forming ordered two-dimensional organization. The modification has been found to leave native characteristics of Rbf undisturbed. TPRbf forms monolayers at the air-water interface with a collapse pressure of 10 mNm-1.