Evolution of Aza-BODIPY dyes-A hot topic

Aza-boron-dipyrromethenes (Aza-BODIPYs) are a class of dyes that display absorption and emission covering visible to NIR region. They can show NIR emission in the 700–1700 nm range and have diverse applications in biology, metal sensing and optical devices. Aza-BODIPYs have got attention for their superior spectral performances and applications in biology and material science. These dyes can be applied to fluorescence imaging, photodynamic/photothermal therapy, optoelectronics, etc. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of streamlined development in the area of aza-BODIPY dyes and their applications in different areas. Firstly, general synthetic methodologies for the preparation of aza-BODIPYs are discussed. In the subsequent sections, the overview of tetra aryl, conformationally rigid and ring fused aza-BODIPYs, pyrrolopyrrole and extended aza-BODIPYs is presented. Later, sections describe the various applications of aza-BODIPYs in different areas such as: metal sensing, anion sensing, pH detectors, detection of biological analytes and energy transferring cassettes. The biological applications of aza-BODIPYs in fluorescence and photoacoustic imaging probes, as PDT and PTT agents, drug delivery systems are also discussed. Undoubtedly, it will be a one-stop solution for the science community to look for every structural aspect and application published from the year 2002 till May 2023.