Synthesis and properties of amphiphilic BODIPY derivatives bearing hydroxyl groups

Functionalizable BODIPY compounds with a hydrophobic alkyl chain at the meso position and hydroxyl groups attached through alkynyl links at the 2,6 or 4,4′ positions were conveniently synthesized using Sonogashira coupling or organolithium chemistry. The compounds are readily taken up and accumulated in human osteosarcoma cells. Some compounds showed excimer formation inside cells as well as in solution.