The how and why of naphthalimide/heterocycle-fused hybrid dyes: an overview of the latest developments in the quest for dyes with innovative optical properties

Abstract

In this review, a variety of hybrid structures fusing aromatic heterocycles of different natures to a naphthalimide backbone are discussed. This strategy constitutes an efficient approach to generate original structures displaying singular photophysical properties and thus offering new perspectives in the fields of fluorogenic detection, optoelectronics, and photodynamic therapy. In this review, different synthetic approaches and structures reported in the literature are discussed. A critical look at the design and the applications of these new fused hybrids allows us to evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of a fused hybrid strategy applied to naphthalimides.