Versatile trifunctional chemosensor of rhodamine derivative for Zn2+, Cu2+ and His/Cys in aqueous solution and living cells

On the basis of rhodamine, a versatile trifunctional chemosensor RP has been synthesized. It can selectively and sensitively recognize Cu2+ and Zn2+ in different solutions. Based on the zinc-containing [RP@Zn2+] complex, it shows highly selective recognition for His/Cys. Fluorescent imaging of Zn2+ in living cells was also obtained.