Dual-channel responsive fluorescent sensor for the logic-controlled detection and bioimaging of Zn2+ and Hg2+

The fluorescence sensing of specific cationic species is necessary and crucial due to their numerous potential effects on living organisms and the environment. In the present investigation, an efficient dual-channel responsive novel probe based rhodamine 6G condensed isophorone moiety (RHI) was designed and synthesized for sensitive, rapid and specific sensing of metal ions. RHI enabled selective and quick recognition of Zn2+ and/or Hg2+ in the presence of other tested metal ions in EtOH/H2O(8/2, v/v). It demonstrated remarkable red for Zn2+ or yellow emission enhancement for Hg2+ and good photochromism. Addition of S2- to a solution of RHI-M2+ reversed the process, followed by quenching emission, enabling reversible use of RHI. It was able to detect the levels of Zn2+ and Hg2+ within the limit of detection of 82.2 nM and 1.13 mu M, respectively. Measurements of mineral and tap water samples prove the potential of the probe RHI for the detection of Zn2+ and Hg2+ ions in environmental aqueous samples. Dual-channel fluorescence response of RHI for Zn2+ and Hg2+ ensured a chance to apply themfor build simple or complex molecular logic circuits. Moreover, it could easily visualize Zn2+ or Hg2+ in DDL-1 cells in bioimaging experiments. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

A novel probe RHI was designed and synthesized for sensitive and specific sensing of metal ions, showing potential for biological and environmental applications.