Recent progress on small molecular temperature-sensitive fluorescent probes

Temperature is an important biophysical parameter that is closely related with the metabolic activity in living cells. Therefore, the detection of intracellular temperature changes is crucial for exploring temperature-related biological processes. Fluorescence probe is an ideal tool for observing temperature changes in cells, which has many advantages, such as high sensitivity, good selectivity, and noninvasive, and thus aroused the great interest of researchers. In this paper, we summarize the recent progress of organic small molecule temperature-sensitive fluorescence probes in recent years was reviewed. Particularly, we describe the common response mode to the temperature and the practical applications of the probe in living cells and even animal models. Moreover, an outlook regarding temperature detection in clinical applications is discussed. The temperature-sensitive fluorescent probe is a black box to many researchers. This review aims to open a window on the prospect of the noninvasive in vivo detection of temperature which is helpful to deeper understand this rich research area.

Automated summary

Temperature is an important biophysical parameter that is closely related to cellular metabolic activity. Fluorescence probes are ideal for detecting temperature changes in cells due to their sensitivity, selectivity, and noninvasive nature. This paper provides a summary of the recent progress in organic small molecule temperature-sensitive fluorescence probes, including their common response modes, practical applications in living cells and animal models, and the potential for clinical use.