Synthesis and supramolecular assembly of 1,3-bis(1′-uracilyl)-2-propanone†
Abstract
In this research work, we investigated the properties of a novel heterocyclic molecule, named by us U2CO, whose structure consists of two uracil rings connected by a 2-propanone moiety. We studied by UV the spectroscopic characteristics of U2CO as a function of temperature and ionic strength of the solution. Furthermore, dynamic light scattering (DLS) studies conducted on samples containing the uracil-containing derivative indicated the formation of non-covalent supramolecular networks based on multiple U2CO units. These aggregates contained hydrophobic cavities able to encapsulate drugs such as doxorubicin, as evidenced by fluorescence studies. This property, together with the good stability in human serum of U2CO, determined by HPLC analysis, could be an interesting feature in developing new drug delivery systems. Interestingly, UV studies suggested that U2CO is able to form complexes with copper(II) cations, which is a useful characteristic in view of potential anti-oxidant approaches.
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