Colorimetric sensor for ATP in aqueous solution

A new chromogenic complex 1 center dot Zn has been synthesized, and its interactions with different biologically important phosphates have been investigated in aqueous solution ( pH similar to 7.2). A visual color change can be detected on binding of ATP to 1 center dot Zn, whereas no such change is observed when other biologically related anions ( AMP, ADP, PPi, or Phosphate) are used. Complex 1 center dot Zn can also be used as a staining agent for yeast cells allowing detection under normal light microscopy.