BODIPY dyes are structures based on two pyrrolic units linked through a
methine bridge, complexated with boron(III) fluoride. These dyes posses usually a
strong fluorescence, absorbing light in the visible range, and are known for their
remarkable photophysical properties, gaining recognition as one of the highly versatile
fluorophores with increasing popularity. Herein is presented a conspectus on the field
of BODIPY dyes, where emphasis is set on their preparation and functionalization
methods, along with more detailed examples on several promising applications with
165 references provided. Some synthetic details on the preparation of state-of-the-art
compounds are given as well.
Keywords: Biolabeling, Bodipy, Boron dipyrromethene, Dyes, Fluorescence,
Methine bridge, Pyrrole, Sensors, Solar cells.
