Spectroscopic Study of Dye Isomerization in a Host-Guest Complex

Faculty Sponsor

Jennifer Holt

College

Arts and Sciences

Discipline(s)

Chemistry

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Summer 7-31-2014

Abstract

Host-guest complexes are systems in which a guest molecule binds to a host molecule through weak intermolecular interactions, such as van der Waals interactions or hydrogen bonding. β-cyclodextrin, the host molecule, is a seven-membered ring with a hydrophobic inner cavity and a hydrophilic outer surface. Brooker’s merocyanine, the guest, is a dye molecule with a photo-induced isomerization cycle. The isomerization of Brooker’s merocyanine was analyzed using UV-Vis spectroscopy to understand differences in the behavior of the dye in the solution and in modified cyclodextrin cavities. The molecule in solution cannot be isomerized directly from the trans to cis configuration unless energy in the form of UV light is added. However, when the dye is complexed with β-CD, it undergoes isomerization without UV light exposure. It appears the dye molecule changes conformation within the cyclodextrin to relieve the strain inflicted by the cavity. Different modifications to the outer surface of the cyclodextrin have been studied to see how these modifications might affect this unique isomerization behavior. By understanding guest behavior in the cavity, a molecular level understanding of host-guest chemistry will help to improve practical applications of materials.

Biographical Information about Author(s)

Miroslava Repak is a senior biochemistry major from Schererville, Indiana. She hopes to attend a graduate school PhD program in pharmacology studies.

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