Dr. Alison Thompson

Abstract

Complexes of dipyrrins (dipyrromethenes) are extensive, with the most common involving boron. Dipyrrinato complexes of the –BF₂ unit are termed BODIPYs. Aza-dipyrrins bear a nitrogen atom at the meso position, and their –BF₂ complexes are known as aza-BODIPYs. These compounds exhibit desirable photochemical properties, and have broad use across chemical biology and materials science.

This talk will focus on efficient synthesis of BODIPYs and aza-BODIPYs, with the goal being to provide practical and efficient routes to complexes with tunable and robust physical and electronic properties. The synthesis of –BCl₂ complexes will be discussed, as will nucleophilic substitution and deprotection at boron.