Organometallic Bioprobes for Cellular Imaging

Abstract

The aim of this chapter is to illustrate the unique contribution made by transition organometallic complexes in the field of cellular imaging, emphasizing their specificity, and indeed their superiority, compared with organic and inorganic tracers. Historically, the word "bioprobes" stands for functional molecules or devices that provide information about biological systems. However, bioprobes dedicated to cellular imaging require additional attributes, such as stability toward enzymes and preservation of their photophysical or spectroscopic features in cells when subjected to UV-vis or infrared radiation. Since eukaryotic cells are small and complex, it is very difficult to elucidate their structure, establish their molecular composition, and ultimately understand the role and function of their specific components. For these reasons, techniques that allow light to penetrate deep within a cell provide invaluable information regarding cell biology. The goal is not only to describe the biology at a single-component level but also to understand biological processes, mechanisms, and principles. In this chapter, we present an overview of d6, d8, and d10 metal-based organometallic compounds suitable for cellular imaging. In particular, luminescent complexes containing Re(I), Ir(III), Rh(III), Pt(II), and Au(I) and metal carbonyl complexes of Re, Os, and Mn that can be detected, thanks to vibrational techniques (infrared and Raman), will be discussed.