A rhodamine-based fluorescent probe for Fe3+: synthesis, theoretical calculation and bioimaging application

Abstract

A novel rhodamine-based fluorescent probe was designed and synthesized. Its metal ion selectivity was illuminated by the highly specific recognition of the probe towards Fe³⁺ over other metal ions; moreover, the color change in the recognition process of Fe³⁺ could be used for its “naked-eye” detection in an aqueous environment. In addition, a theoretical calculation was performed to reveal the possible reaction mechanism between the probe and Fe³⁺. The fluorescent imaging of Fe³⁺ in living cells further suggested future applications of the probe for instant Fe³⁺ detection in a clinical diagnosis and dynamic tracking of Fe³⁺ in biological systems.