Induced-fit-like uptake and sensing of perfluoroalkyl compounds by an emissive metallacage

In this issue of Chem, Jonathan L. Sessler, Xiaodong Chi, and co-workers describe the induced-fit-like sequestration and real-time smart-phone-app-enabled sensing of perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs) using a luminescent zinc-metallacage with detection limits of 57 nM and the ability to decrease PFCA concentrations to below the US Environmental Protection Agency's advisory levels.

Automated summary

In this study, the researchers developed a luminescent zinc-metallacage that can sequester and detect perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs) in real-time using a smartphone app. The detection limits were found to be 57 nM, and the system was able to decrease PFCA concentrations to below the advisory levels set by the US Environmental Protection Agency.