Ruthenium(II) complex-based fluorescent sensor for peroxynitrite

We have developed a new ruthenium complex, Ru(bpy)2[4-(2,2′-bipyridin-4-yloxy)phenol]Cl2 (RuL), as a fluorescent sensor to detect peroxynitrite (ONOO−). The results showed that the addition of ONOO− to the aqueous solution of RuL would result in distinct fluorescence quenching at 600 nm. RuL exhibits a good selectivity for ONOO− over other reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrite species (RNS), and the reaction time is less than 1.5 s. The sensing mechanism is proposed as the oxidative O-dealkylation reaction.

Graphical abstractWe have developed a new ruthenium complex, Ru(bpy)2[4-(2,2′-bipyridin-4-yloxy)phenol]Cl2 (RuL), as a fluorescent sensor to detect peroxynitrite (ONOO−). The results showed that the addition of ONOO− to the aqueous solution of RuL would result in distinct fluorescence quenching at 600 nm. RuL exhibits a good selectivity for ONOO− over other reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitrite species (RNS), and the reaction time is less than 1.5 s. The sensing mechanism is proposed as the oxidative O-dealkylation reaction.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► We have presented a new fluorescent sensor (RuL) for the detection of peroxynitrite. ► The sensing mechanism is proposed as the oxidative O-dealkylation reaction. ► RuL could recognize peroxynitrite specifically among other ROS/RNS. ► The reaction time of RuL and peroxynitrite is less than 1.5 s.