Light-Control of Biomimetic and Bioactive Molecules

by Nils Imse
Doctoral thesis
Date of Examination:2025-07-17
Date of issue:2025-08-19
Advisor:Prof. Dr. Nadja A. Simeth
Referee:Prof. Dr. Claudia Steinem
Referee:Prof. Dr. Kai Tittmann
Referee:Prof. Dr. Johannes C. L. Walker
Referee:Prof. Dr. Jeong Seop Rhee
Referee:Dr. Holm Frauendorf
Persistent Address: http://dx.doi.org/10.53846/goediss-11452

 

 

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Abstract

English

Light-controlled molecules enable precise spatial and temporal regulation of biological activity, supporting both fundamental research and the development of new therapeutics. In this work, photolipids and photocaged bioactive compounds were designed and synthesized to achieve optical control over membrane properties and biological processes. Novel fatty acids bearing different leaving groups were prepared and characterized for their photophysical and photochemical properties in solvents of varying polarity. Photolabile lipid molecules with permanent charges were also synthesized to modulate electrostatic interactions between vesicles, and their membrane behavior in vesicles was investigated, before and after irradiation. Furthermore, capsaicinoids were structurally modified to make them photodeactivatable, allowing targeted regulation of TRPV1 receptor activity. These studies demonstrate strategies for both light-induced activation and deactivation of bioactive molecules.
Keywords: Chromoselective; Photocage; Membranes; Lipids; Bioactive Molecules