Highly sensitive fluorescent probe for thiols based on combination of PET and ESIPT mechanisms

We have developed a conceptually new design strategy for fluorescent probes based on a combinational use of photo-induced electron transfer (PET) and excited-state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) mechanisms. This turn-on fluorescence thiol-probe shows fast responses to mercapto-biomolecules with high sensitivity and selectivity. Furthermore, it was used for imaging in living cells with excellent performance.