Exploring multi-stimuli-responsive Pt(ii) complexes: supramolecular self-assembly, lysosome-specific targeted photodynamic therapy and photodegradation of organic pollutants

Abstract

Developing novel luminescent materials with multi-stimuli-responsiveness and multi-functional properties is vital. Herein, we designed and synthesized aggregation-induced emission (AIE)-based platinum(II) compounds, Pt-Cl and Pt-PF, with multi-stimuli responsiveness. Pt-PF exhibited excellent AIE properties and featured high sensitivity to changes in solvent conditions. Moreover, Pt-PF self-assembled in water through the aggregation of Pt–Pt and π–π stacking interactions. Owing to its remarkable AIE properties, Pt-PF served as a unique imaging probe for lysosomes, demonstrating excellent photostability. Notably, Pt-Cl and Pt-PF exhibited high reactive oxygen species generation capabilities and excellent biocompatibility, making them superior photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy treatment against cancer cells by targeting lysosomes. Additionally, the Pt-Cl photocatalyst efficiently photodegraded organic pollutants with a high efficiency of 98.7% under white light irradiation for only 60 min. These results provide valuable guidance for designing multi-functional molecules and developing stimuli-responsive materials.