Construction of BODIPY-based triangular metallacycles with tunable photosensitization efficiency

The development of highly effective photosensitizers (PSs) based on supramolecular coordination complexes (SCCs) is highly appealing in supramolecular chemistry, materials science, and biology. SCCs offer promising platforms for incorporating multiple PSs and other functional units into their well-defined structures, allowing for precise control over the number and distribution of these components. In this study, we present an efficient and straightforward method for modulating the photosensitization process of PSs derived from a family of BF₂-chelated dipyrromethene (BODIPY)-containing Pt(II) metallacycles by varying pre-designed Pt(II) acceptors. By utilizing different Pt(II) acceptors with varying Pt atom configurations and degrees of π-conjugated organic moieties, we observed tunable characteristics in the photosensitization process and singlet oxygen (¹O₂) generation efficiency of these targeted metallacycles. Furthermore, we successfully conducted the visible-light-driven oxidative coupling of various amines to imines, catalyzed by the prepared metallacycle PSs. This study offers a novel approach for fabricating efficient PSs based on SCCs, featuring tunable photosensitization efficiency and excellent photocatalytic reactivity, while providing new insights into the preparation of effective PSs.