Corroles are aromatic compounds consisting of four pyrrole-like subunits connected in a ring via three methane bridges and one direct bond between the alpha carbons of two of the subunits. They have a structure and photophysical properties similar to that of porphyrins, which are currently being researched in blocking tumor progression and metastasis. Corroles also have the potential to be useful in harvesting solar power. Other tetrapyrrolic molecules have been found in nature in photosynthetic bacteria. These molecules are used in the light harvesting complexes of the bacteria to channel solar energy towards the reaction complex where photosynthesis occurs. Similar to porphyrins, corroles demonstrate exceptional photophysical properties in regards to their absorbance of light and fluorescence. Corroles differ from porphyrins in that they can exist in two separate tautomeric states causing them to exhibit noticeably different photophysical behaviors in different solvents. Corroles, like porphyrins, have potential as photosensitizers in photodynamic therapies and solar cells. In order to fully understand the role of solvents in corroles tautomerization and how they can influence its photophysical and electrochemical properties, we have investigated the UV/vis absorption, fluorescence, electrochemical, and spectroelectrochemical properties of free-base triphenylcorrole (H<sub>3</sub>TPCor). We have characterized corroles light absorbing and emission behavior in various solvents across various concentrations and we have characterized the photophysical properties in its reduced & oxidized states and how solvents can affect their stability. We have analyzed our experimental results and we have developed a mechanism to show solvent effect in the tautomerization reaction of H<sub>3</sub>TPCor. A proper understanding of corroles interaction with solvents and how they affect corroles light absorbing emitting capabilities are necessary to develop potential uses of corrole in solar energy, cancer diagnosis, and tumor treatment.

Photophysical and spectroelectrochemical characterization and solvent effect on the tautomerism of free-base corrole

251st National Meeting (2016)

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