Enhanced fluorescent chemosensor for Ag+ in absolute aqueous solution and living cells: An experimental and theoretical study

Rosamine derivative RC-1, bearing macrocyclic ligand [15]aneNO(2)S(2) as receptor, was synthesized as an enhanced fluorescent chemosensor for Ag+ in absolute aqueous solution. The fluorescence images in living cells show the potential application of RC-1. The difference of fluorescence enhancement process after binding with Ag+/Hg2+ in acetonitrile/water solution was first proved by theoretical calculations.