Difunctional fluorescent probes for iron and hydrogen sulfide detection based on diphenyl derivative

Abstract

Abstract In order to better monitor the content of Fe3+ and H2S in the biological environment, two new fluorescent probes were designed and synthesized. With the addition of Fe3+, the strong fluorescence emission of two probes was significantly quenched due to the paramagnetic effect of Fe3+. After the addition of S2−, the fluorescence intensity of two probes was quickly restored. Two probes showed high selectivity and strong sensitivity for the detection of Fe3+ and S2−, and the fluorescence intensity “ON-OFF-ON” was accompanied with the interaction process. At the same time, two probes displayed good anti-interference ability which was not interfered by the existence of other ions. In addition, two probes illustrated fast response time to Fe3+, S2− and small cytotoxicity to cells. Therefore, two probes can provide a potential ideal tool for detecting Fe3+ and H2S in organisms and the environment.