Naphthalimide and Perylenimide Luminogens: Structure-Property Relationships for Sensing and Biomedical Applications

Abstract

This thesis explores the structural optimization and functional versatility of Naphthalimide (NI) and Perylenimide (PI) luminogens, focusing on their condensed state emission properties and supramolecular self-assembly behaviors. Traditional fluorophores like NI and PI often suffer from aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ) in their aggregated state, limiting their practical applications. Through strategic structural modifications, such as extending π-conjugation and introducing flexible molecular designs, these molecules exhibit aggregation-induced emission (AIE), transforming them into robust emitters in condensed states. The thesis highlights applications in sensing and biomedical fields, emphasizing their role as fluorescent nano-aggregates for detecting toxic analytes and as photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy (PDT). By manipulating intermolecular interactions and molecular conformation, this work establishes a framework for enhancing the performance and expanding the applications of small molecule fluorophores in diverse technological domains