Enzymatically catalyzed molecular aggregation.

ABSTRACT: The dynamic modulation of the aggregation process of small molecules represents an important research objective for scientists. However, the complex and dynamic nature of internal environments in vivo impedes controllable aggregation processes of single molecules. In this study, we successfully achieve tumor-targeted aggregation of an aggregation-induced emission photosensitizer (AIE-PS), TBmA, with the catalysis of a tumor-overexpressed enzyme, γ-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT). Mechanistic investigations reveal that TBmA-Glu can be activated by GGT through cleavage of the γ-glutamyl bond and releasing TBmA. The poor water solubility of TBmA induces its aggregation, leading to aggregation-enhanced emission and photodynamic activities. The TBmA-Glu not only induces glutathione (GSH) depletion t

SUBMITTER: Wang WJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11574095 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature