Synthesis and evaluation of photophysical, electrochemical, and ROS generation properties of new chalcogen-naphthoquinones-1,2,3-triazole hybrids

This study presents a comprehensive analysis encompassing the synthesis, structural elucidation, photophysical behavior, and electrochemical properties of a novel series of chalcogen-naphthoquinone-1,2,3-triazole hybrids. Employing a meticulously designed protocol, the synthesis of these hybrids, denoted as 11a–j, was achieved with remarkable efficiency (yielding up to 81%). This synthesis used a regioselective copper-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition reaction (CuAAC). Furthermore, a detailed investigation into the photophysical characteristics, TDDFT calculations, electrochemical profiles, and photobiological attributes of compounds 11a–j was conducted. This exploration aimed to unravel insights into the excited state behaviors of these molecules, as well as their redox properties. Such insights are crucial for future applications of these derivatives in diverse biological assays.