A highly selective colorimetric sensor for cysteine and homocysteine based on a new photochromic diarylethene

A new photochromic diarylethene with a formyl group, 1-(2-cyano-1,5-dimethyl-4-pyrryl)-2-(2-methyl-5-formyl-3-thienyl)perfluorocyclopentene,has been synthesized. The interaction between the formyl group of its ring-closed isomer with cysteine/homocysteine caused a notable change in its absorption spectrum, accompanied by an evident color change from blue to pale yellow upon addition of cysteine/homocysteine. Moreover, the competition tests revealed that no obvious interference was observed by performing the titrations with the mixtures of cysteine/homocysteine and other amino acids. The results indicated that the diarylethene could be used as a colorimetric sensor for the recognition of cysteine/homocysteine with high selectivity.

A new photochromic diarylethene with a formyl group was successfully synthesized. The diarylethene could be used as a colorimetric sensor for the detection of cysteine and homocysteine with high selectivity.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► A new diarylethene with a formyl group was synthesized.
► A notable change in its absorption spectrum was observed by cysteine or homocysteine stimuli.
► The diarylethene could be used as a colorimetric chemosensor for cysteine and homocysteine.