Research

Cell-organelle specific imaging and photodynamic therapy

• Selective staining of specific cell organelles or sub-cellular compartments is a major challenge in cellular imaging

• Cyclometalated heteroleptic iridium(III) complexes of polypyridyl ligands are highly efficient in imaging of cells and cellular organelles

• The primary criteria for designing a cell-organelle specific imaging agent involve provision of interactions between sub-cellular microenvironment and potential imaging agent, resulting in specific localization and efficient fluorescence emission characteristics

• Cyclometalated iridium(III) complexes have been reported to act as efficient photosensitizing agents and induce cell death by photoirradiation

Sensing materials within cellular environment

• Cyclometalated iridium(III) connected to Pt(II)-amines can be used for sensing amino acids such as histidine, cystine, nucleic bases such as guanine or other various nitrogen or sulphur containing biomolecules

• Adduct formation can be easily monitored through change in their emission profile

• Non-emissive metal centre connected to emissive Ir(III) centre does not affect the emissive behaviour much

• HOMO-LUMO is monitored mainly by the ligand group that holds the emissive metal

 Photocatalytic carbon dioxide deduction and water splitting

• We are currently focused on the development of multimetallic transition metal systems within the domain of renewable energy and sustainable development.

• Utilizing these types of photocatalysts for carbon dioxide reduction and water splitting holds promise for leading to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future. 

• The outcomes of this project could significantly propel the advancement of practical and efficient photocatalysts for these critical reactions.

• It will offer the potential to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and lessen our reliance on fossil fuels.