Induced‐Fit Recognition by a Calixarene–Pyrene Conjugate for Single‐ and Dual‐Wavelength Fluorescence Sensing in Water
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The discovery of fluorescence receptors that selectively bind small molecules with high affinity in aqueous media is critical for the development of new sensing and bioimaging assays. We herein report a new fluorescence receptor-dye chemosensor based on the monofunctionalization of p-sulfonatocalix[4]arene (SC4) receptor with pyrene (SC4-4Py). The SC4-4Py conjugate was found to retain the exceptional binding properties of SC4, allowing the high-affinity recognition of neurotransmitters, amino acids, and biogenic amines in aqueous solution and their optical detection. The SC4-4Py chemosensor operates through a photoinduced electron transfer (PET) mechanism triggered by conformational changes in the calixarene structure upon binding, allowing single-wavelength fluorescence detection of target analytes and its expansion into a dual-wavelength ratiometric indicator displacement assay (IDA) that relies on competitive PET between the pyrene and non-covalently bound lucigenin dye.
Source: Chemistry - A European Journal
Language: English
Subfield: Spectroscopy
Field: Chemistry
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,640
OpenAlex ID: W7124431380