Zinc ion–tetraphenylporphyrin interactions in the ground and excited states

In the present article, tetraphenylporphyrin a new ratiometric fluorescence sensitizer for zinc ion has been proposed. Electronic absorption, emission and 1H NMR spectral characteristics of meso-tetraphenylporphyrin (TPP) have been studied in acetonitrile medium in the presence of zinc perchlorate. Absorption spectral studies indicate the formation of a new complex between zinc ion and the porphyrin moiety in the ground state as distinguished from the characteristics of metalo(zinc) porphyrin compound. The energy of maximum fluorescence of porphyrin shifts towards blue with the addition of Zn(ClO4)2. Steady state emission studies point to the existence of two emitting species viz, the solvated and the complexed porphyrin in equilibrium. The fluorescence emission of tetraphenylporphyrin at 651-nm bands decreases while that at 605 nm increases upon zinc ion interaction in acetonitrile. Thus, the TPP can behave as a ratiometric fluorescent sensor. This fluorescence modulation of TPP should be applicable to dual-wavelength measurement of various biomolecules or enzyme activities. 1H NMR spectra of the porphyrin suffered a radical change with the addition of zinc perchlorate which points to the formation of a new porphyrin complex. This change is due to the difference in the electron-donating ability of the pyrrolic nitrogens before and after complexation with Zn2+. The values of equilibrium constant for the binding process have been determined in acetone and acetonitrile, in both ground and excited states.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Zn2+ forms both ground and excited state isosbestics with tetraphenylporphyrin.
► A new ratiometric fluorescence sensitizer for zinc ion.
► Purple solution of tetraphenylporphyrin changes to green with addition of Zn(ClO4)2.