Fluorescent switch for fast and selective detection of mercury (II) ions in vitro and in living cells and a simple device for its removal

A water-soluble, biocompatible, fluorescent chemosensor for label-free, simple, and fast detection of mercury ions (Hg2+) in aqueous solution and in HepG2 cells with high selectivity was reported. Moreover, a facile device for fast and effective removal of Hg2+ from contaminated liquid samples was also constructed.