A BODIPY-based sensor for Hg2+ in living cells

A BODIPY-based probe has been investigated for fast response to Hg2+ with high sensitivity and selectivity in living cells. This response is attributed to intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) mechanisms. The detection limit is lower than the upper limit (10 nM) that the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had mandated for Hg2+ in drinking water.