Energy transfer in aggregates of bacteriochlorophyll c self-assembled with azulene derivatives

Phys Chem Chem Phys. 2014 Aug 21;16(31):16755-64. doi: 10.1039/c4cp01311e.

Abstract

Bacteriochlorophyll (BChl) c is the main light-harvesting pigment of certain photosynthetic bacteria. It is found in the form of self-assembled aggregates in the so-called chlorosomes. Here we report the results of co-aggregation experiments of BChl c with azulene and its tailored derivatives. We have performed spectroscopic and quantum chemical characterization of the azulenes, followed by self-assembly experiments. The results show that only azulenes with sufficient hydrophobicity are able to induce aggregation of BChl c. Interestingly, only azulene derivatives possessing a conjugated phenyl ring were capable of efficient (∼50%) excitation energy transfer to BChl molecules. These aggregates represent an artificial light-harvesting complex with enhanced absorption between 220 and 350 nm compared to aggregates of pure BChl c. The results provide insight into the principles of self-assembly of BChl aggregates and suggest an important role of the π-π interactions in efficient energy transfer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Azulenes / chemistry*
  • Bacterial Proteins / chemistry*
  • Bacteriochlorophylls / chemistry*
  • Energy Transfer

Substances

  • Azulenes
  • Bacterial Proteins
  • Bacteriochlorophylls
  • bacteriochlorophyll c
  • azulene