Postfunctionalization of the BODIPY Core: Synthesis and Spectroscopy

Abstract In this review we describe the various new methodologies for synthetic postmodification of the BODIPY core designed and developed by our research groups, as well as their electronic spectroscopic properties. We discuss the different strategies created for functionalization of the BODIPY framework at the pyrrole C‐ring positions and the meso ‐position. Halogenated boron dipyrrins are substrates for nucleophilic substitution or Pd‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions. α‐Unsubstituted BODIPYs can be functionalized with N and C nucleophiles through oxidative or vicarious nucleophilic substitution (VNS) of the α‐hydrogen atoms. Combining this methodology with reversible Michael addition onto nitrostyrenes provides a route to 3‐styrylated BODIPYs. Furthermore, the one‐step, Pd‐catalyzed C–H arylation of 3,5‐unsubstituted BODIPYs leads to 3‐ and 3,5‐arylated dyes. Finally, radical C–H arylation at the 3,5‐positions of α‐unsubstituted BODIPYs provides an additional synthesis route to arylated dyes.