Fluorescence and Phosphorescence Energy Transfer in Cucurbituril‐Based Supramolecular Systems

Abstract

Supramolecular systems demonstrating resonance energy transfer have recently became a topical area on the borderline of supramolecular chemistry, photochemistry, photophysics and biology. The modularity of supramolecular interactions is a prerequisite of fine tuning of optical properties, which is difficult to achieve in other ways. As a component of such systems, CB[n] macrocycles can play a wide spectrum of roles from anchoring of FRET pairs and modulation the optical output to providing biocompatibility of FRET stains for cell imaging. The aim of this review is to outline the development of the CB[n]‐based systems with fluorescence (FRET) and phosphorescence (TS‐FRET) energy transfer and to highlight achievements, challenges and perspectives of this fascinating combination of a classical phohotophysical process and a classical supramolecular host. Particular attention in this review is given to the current and potential applications of the reviewed systems.