Advances in functional fluorescent and luminescent probes for imaging intracellular small-molecule reactive species

We summarize recent progress in imaging intracellular small-molecule reactive species (ISMRS) by functional probes. In molecular imaging, functional fluorescent and luminescent probes (e.g., ratiometric, targetable fluorescent, reversible fluorescent, and multi-functional) and corresponding nanoprobes have great potential for investigating ISMRS-mediated cell-signal transduction. We describe design strategies for the development of functional probes. Future research on ISMRS will benefit from recent advances in the development of new functional probes for selective detection of ISMRS.

► Intracellular small-molecule reactive species are important signaling molecules.
► Functional probes for imaging Intracellular small-molecule reactive species (ISMRS).
► We discuss classification and strategies of developing functional probes.
► We review nanoprobes for multi-functional detection and therapeutic application.