Short CommunicationA simple pH fluorescent probe based on new fluorophore indolizine for imaging of living cells

•A new fluorophore indolizine has been synthesized and characterized.•Indolizine shows remarkable properties including high quantum yield (φ = 0.52), very fast, low cytotoxicity and good biocompatibility.•The indolizine-based sensor can be used for detecting and imaging pH in cells.

A simple pH fluorescent probe based on new fluorophore indolizine derivative has been synthesized and characterized. This probe responds to acidic pH (pKa = 3.85) with high quantum yield (φ = 0.52), short response time (within 1 min), high selectivity and sensitivity. The response mechanism of the fluorescent probes relies on ICT changes. The probe was successfully used to monitor intracellular H+ within RAW 264.7 cells.

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