A simple fluorescent probe for monitoring pH in cellsbased on new fluorophorepyrido[1,2-a]benzimidazole

A simple pH fluorescent probe based on new fluorophorepyrido[1,2-a]benzimidazole derivative has been synthesized and characterized. This probe responds to acidic pH (pKa =5.18) with high quantum yield (phi)=0.96), fast response (within 1 min), high selectivity and sensitivity. The response mechanism of the fluorescent probes relies on ICT change. The probe was successfully used to monitor intracellular H(+)within RAW 264.7 cells. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.