Organic molecules have been widely utilized as bio-imaging agents due to their inherent luminescent properties. However due to small Stokes shifts, short lifetimes, and photo bleaching, the scope of these molecules is often limited. Third-row transition metals including d6 systems such as rhenium(I) complexes display longer luminescent emission lifetimes, larger stoke shifts, and improved photo-stability. In this study, five rhenium(I) complexes of the type [Re(phen)(CO)3X] with varying sixth ligands (X) were synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic studies and X-ray crystallography. The variation of the sixth ligand X resulted in different emission intensities and emission maxima relative to each other. The time-dependent luminescent properties of these complexes under illumination with lights of different wavelengths have also been studied. Results of bio-imaging studies with these fluorescent carbonyls and MDA-MB-231 cells indicate significant internalization of the complexes into the cancer cells. The highly luminescent properties and good cellular internalization make these complexes excellent candidates for bio-imaging of cellular targets.

Design, synthesis and characterization of rhenium(I) tricarbonyl complexes derived from a-diimine coligand for bio-imaging applications

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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