An approach to the synthesis of modified methyl ether-protected dimethyloxyluciferin
derivatives is presented, focusing on the enlargement of the π-system. This was achieved
by introducing an alkene bridge at the 4-position of the thiazoline moiety to link
the two chromophoric substructures. The resulting derivatives show strong absorbing
properties over a wide range of the visible spectrum. Also, the fluorescence properties
of these novel dimethyloxyluciferin derivatives are unique and might lead to new
photophysical studies and bioanalytical applications.
Key words
chromophores - heterocycles - Barton–Kellogg reaction - fluorophores - luciferins
