Thiolysis of NBD-based dyes for colorimetric and fluorescence detection of H2S and biothiols: design and biological applications

Abstract

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is an important endogenous signaling molecule with multiple biological functions. The development of colorimetric and fluorescent probes for the visualization of H₂S is useful for studying H₂S biology. This review details up-to-date research on H₂S probes based on thiolysis reactions of NBD (7-nitro-1,2,3-benzoxadiazole) amines or ethers (thioethers). The reactivity and selectivity of NBD-based dyes are discussed. The design principles of NBD-based probes are highlighted. The advantages and disadvantages of NBD-based probes are compared, and their biological applications are discussed.