Synthesis of helical cyanines, their chirality, self-assembly, and redox switching

Abstract:
We propose to investigate helically chiral variants of cyanines as a new compound class. Our preliminary studies show that these systems possess outstandingly large specific molar rotations. The aim is to monitor and modify properties of the helical cyanines and their supramolecular self-assemblies. This fundamental knowledge will lead to realizing application potential of the novel and promising class of functional molecules with large inherent and switchable chirality for optics and sensorics. We will establish their synthesis in non-racemic form, study their chiroptical properties, and examine their redox switchability and supramolecular chemistry. The structural relation of the title compounds with paraquat and diquat predetermines their rich redox behavior and the dicationic character will lead to their diverse interactions with a variety of molecular partners. Organic synthesis and advanced electrochemistry combined with spectroscopy will be used to achieve the goal of the presented project.

Goals:
The aim is to monitor and modify properties of helical cyanines and their supramolecular self-assemblies. We will establish synthesis of these compounds and open the route to functional materials with large inherent and switchable chiroptical properties for optics and sensorics.