New Porphycene Macrocycles for Applications in Two-Photon Absorption: Optimisation and Synthesis

This proposal combines advanced state-of-the-art response theoretical computation with efficient, modern synthesis of structurally variable dibenzoporphycenes, and non-linear laser spectroscopy to probe structural and electronic parameters in a class of molecules that show very promising two-photon absorption (TPA) behaviour. The use of TPA shows many advantages over conventional excitation techniques, however, applications of these techniques are still in their infancy. We will model, prepare and study a new class of promising compounds for potential use in the treatment of cancer via what is known as photodynamic therapy. Here, TPA has the potential overcome many issues in this field, for example exploiting the tissue transparency window. This proposal is thus timely as it brings together the three strands of research required to investigate this new class of compounds. Compounds within this promising subset of aromatic macrocycles with optimal TPA properties will be discovered computationally and then prepared by flexible, convergent synthetic routes. This proposal will thus bring together a multi-disciplinary team to study this important topic.