Switching on luminescence in nucleotide/lanthanide coordination nanopartides via synergistic interactions with a cofactor ligand

(Figure Presented) Coordination nanoparticles: Hydroxypicolinic acid (1) is easily incorporated into coordination nanoparticles (CNPs) self-assembled from nucleotides and terbium ions without impairing nanoparticle morphology. Compound 1 acts as a cofactor ligand that coordinates to Tb³⁺ ions that exist in the coordination networks, and this switches on the luminescence of CNPs (see graphic).