Synthesis and characterization of new molecules as fluorescent probes with biomedical applications

The use of fluorescent molecules of varying molecular weight is one of the most powerful tools currently available for visualizing biological processes in living cells and organisms in a selective and non-invasive manner. When these probes are incorporated into bioactive molecules, they enable the acquisition of selective and non-invasive images and insights of biologically relevant targets, thus allowing us to understand the biological processes in which these molecules are involved. In the last decade, the in vivo monitoring of tumors and other lesions with antibodies and peptides labeled with fluorescent molecules has attracted considerable attention. The overall objective of this project is to develop new molecules that can serve as fluorescent probes or as temperature nanosensors in the physiological range. These new compounds can be patented and brought to market with the support of the participating company. Once the compounds are obtained, their photophysical properties will be measured in the laboratory of the "Laser Spectroscopy and High Pressures" group of Professor Martín Benenzuela, from the Physics Department of the Faculty of Sciences at the University of La Laguna (ULL). The specific objectives of the project are: (1) Preparation of (fluorophore)-linker-(bioactive molecule) systems; (2) Use of aldehydes with fluorescent properties for the preparation of libraries of fluorescent marker compounds; (3) Multicomponent synthesis of 4-hydroxy-6-methyl-pyrone derivatives as a source of fluorescent probes; (4) Preparation of rare-earth complexes with a +3 valence for obtaining molecules with emission closer to the IR range.

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ULL Team

• Sandra María Oramas Royo
• Ana María Estévez Braun