A Norbornene-Based Fluorescence Probe for Rapid Detection of Esterase in Cancer Cell

Biswal, Prianshu (2023) A Norbornene-Based Fluorescence Probe for Rapid Detection of Esterase in Cancer Cell. Masters thesis, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata.

Text (MS dissertation of Prianshu Biswal (18MS114)) Thesis_18MS114.pdf - Submitted Version Restricted to Repository staff only Download (3MB)

Abstract

Norbornene is a monomer of significant importance in Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization (ROMP). The molecule demonstrates a remarkable tolerance for double bonds, biocompatibility, side-chain interactions, and functional group tolerance for various sensing modes. A novel norbornene derivative monomer has been designed as it exhibits fluorescence in the presence of esterase. Upon exposure to porcine liver esterase, the ester bond in the molecule undergoes cleavage, leading to the reappearance of fluorescence. The homopolymer of this monomer-1 has been synthesized. This detection of esterase helps target cancer cells in biological systems as these cells have abnormal overexpression of esterase. The fluorescent properties of the compound enable its tracking in vivo. The characterization of the monomer-1 has been carried out using techniques such as 13C and 1H spectroscopy. In addition to it, high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), ultraviolet (UV), and fluorescence studies have also been carried out. In a similar manner, the design of monomer-2 was guided by its intended interaction with folate receptors present in cancer cells. Certain folate receptors are known to exhibit elevated expression levels in cancerous cells, and our monomer specifically targets these receptors. To assess the properties of monomer-2, characterization was performed using 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Subsequently, the copolymerization of monomer-1 and monomer-2 was carried out to synthesize the desired copolymer. In conclusion, this monomer displays significant potential as a polymeric sensor and drug carrier for the detection and treatment of cancer cells.

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