Ratiometric and colorimetric detection of hydrogen sulfide with high selectivity and sensitivity using a novel FRET-based fluorescence probe

With recognition of the biological significance of H2S, we have designed and synthesized a novel ratiometric and colorimetric fluorescence probe, CR-DNP based on a H2S induced thiolysis reaction as well as the fluorescence resonance energy transfer process. It displayed some desirable properties, such as good photostability, high selectivity and excellent sensitivity. Also, a considerably fluorescence enhancement (15-fold) and distinct visible color change (colorless to bright orange) was observed. A good linear relationship between the emission intensity ratios and NaHS concentrations suggested that it can detect H2S quantitatively with a detection limit as low as 0.4 mu M. Furthermore, due to its biocompatibility, the sensor could easily permeate through the cell membrane and trace the intracellular H2S levels change. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.