A sensitive and selective fluorescent probe for the detection of endogenous peroxynitrite (ONOO−) in living cells

Abstract

Peroxynitrite (ONOO⁻) is one of reactive oxygen species, and plays a vital role in numeorus physiological and pathological processes. Given that the ONOO⁻ level is closely related with various serious diseases, the in situ and real time detection of endogenous ONOO⁻ is highly important for the in-depth study of its roles in living systems. Herein, we present a new fluorescent probe (RHPN) for the real-time detection of intracellular ONOO⁻. The probe RHPN consists of a rhodamine analogue and an arylhydrazide group as a response site for ONOO⁻. In response to ONOO⁻, the probe RHPN converts to an open-ring form and generates strong fluorescence. Moreover, the probe RHPN was successfully used for the imaging of the endogenous and exogenous ONOO⁻ level changes in living cells.