Eu(III) and Tb(III) luminescent lanthanide systems derived from DTPA-bisamide and DTTA-based ligands incorporating bipyridine antenna

► These complexes are emissive in aqueous solutions at room temperature. ► Bipyridine units act as remote (from the binding site) sensitizer for lanthanide ion. ► Removal of amide functions weakens the shielding of the metal from water molecules. ► The ligand→Eu energy transfer controls the overall efficiency of emission of Eu(III).