Matthew Allen | Wayne State University
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Lanthanide Chemistry in Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Catalysis
Research in the Allen laboratory is focused on the lanthanide chemistry of contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging and catalysts for bond-forming reactions. Our studies involve the use coordination chemistry to influence the properties of the metals. I will present our studies of the chemistry of divalent europium. This relatively uncommon oxidation state of the lanthanides leads to interesting magnetic and luminescence properties as well as useful reactivity. Through ligand design, we have tuned the electrochemical potential of divalent europium complexes over a range that spans over two volts. We have studied the complexes with more positive potentials in the frame of oxygen-responsive contrast agents for MRI and have demonstrated the first use of divalent lanthanides in vivo. Additionally, we have studied the complexes with more negative potentials with respect to serving as promoters for photoredox catalysis. I will present our findings from these two areas of research as well as discuss the graduate program as Wayne State University.
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The Catalyst 