Luminescent and chromogenic molecular probes based on polyamines and related compounds

This review describes some developments on the coordination chemistry of chemosensors based on polyamines and related compounds, with particular emphasis on their photochemical properties. The reported systems are essentially based on the work developed by the authors since 2000. Some interesting properties beyond sensing molecules and/or atoms by fluorescence or colorimetry can arise from these systems. In particular pH and light can be used as external stimuli to carry out functions, like molecular movements, jumping of metal ions inside-outside polyaza cavities, photocatalytic effects, energy and electron transfer.