Controlling fluorescence resonance energy transfer of donor-acceptor dyes by Diels-Alder dynamic covalent bonds

Two new dyes consisting of an aromatic amine donor and dansyl acceptor were synthesized, where the intramolecular donor and acceptor are connected by Diels-Alder dynamic covalent bonds. These new dyes display a switchable fluorescence resonance energy transfer through reversible formation and cleavage of Diels-Alder bonds. Single crystal X-ray diffraction revealed that Diels-Alder bonds are longer and weaker than normal single bonds. Dynamic covalent properties enable the mutual conversion of the two dyes by maleimide exchanges, where a new higher energy transfer efficiency system can be constructed.

Automated summary

Two new dyes were synthesized with an aromatic amine donor and dansyl acceptor connected by Diels-Alder dynamic covalent bonds, allowing switchable fluorescence resonance energy transfer. Single crystal X-ray diffraction revealed the longer and weaker nature of Diels-Alder bonds compared to normal single bonds. The dynamic covalent properties enable mutual conversion of the dyes through maleimide exchanges to construct a new system with higher energy transfer efficiency.