A fluorescent nanoprobe based on AIEgen: Visualization of silver ions and sensing applications in cancer cells and S. aureus

We have developed a fluorescent nanoprobe (AgP-1) that can detect silver ions (Ag+) in biological media. For the first time, a hybridized structure based on AIEgen (tetraphenylethylene; TPE) and 2-(methylthio)aniline (MTA) moiety has been designed, and its unique sensing properties toward silver ions were systematically analyzed. The nanoprobe AgP-1 has an aggregated form with weak fluorescence and showed significant fluorescence enhancement (3.7-fold) upon forming complex with silver ions. AgP-1 has high selectivity, high sensitivity (detection limit 6.6 ppb), a fast response time (fluorescence enhancement within 10 s), and superior biocompatibility. Visualization of silver ions in cancer cells (U87 glioblastoma) and bacteria (S. aureus) was also successfully demonstrated. We believe AgP-1 holds a great potential to serve as a practical sensor for silver ions detection in biomedical applications.

Automated summary

The fluorescent nanoprobe AgP-1 has been developed for detecting silver ions in biological media, showing high selectivity, sensitivity, and significant fluorescence enhancement upon forming complex with silver ions. The probe also demonstrates fast response time and superior biocompatibility, with successful visualization of silver ions in cancer cells and bacteria. This indicates the potential of AgP-1 as a practical sensor for silver ions detection in biomedical applications.