Applications of Fluorescent Probes in the Detection and Monitoring of Sepsis

Abstract

Sepsis, a life-threatening condition characterized by dysregulated host response to infection leading to organ dysfunction, poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This review highlights the applications of fluorescent probe technology in sepsis detection and monitoring, addressing its advantages over traditional methods. Fluorescent probes, including small-molecule organic, fluorescent protein, quantum dot, and nanoparticle-based probes, enable rapid pathogen identification (e.g., PNA-FISH for Klebsiella pneumoniae within 3 hours), dynamic monitoring of inflammatory microenvironments (pH/ROS-responsive probes), and immune cell activity (CD64-targeted flow cytometry with 92% sensitivity). Compared to conventional approaches like blood culture (20-40% positivity rate) and PCR (high cost, complex operation), fluorescent probes offer high sensitivity (down to femtomolar levels), specificity, and real-time imaging capabilities. Multimodal probes integrating diagnosis and therapy, such as near-infrared II nanoparticles for sublingual microcirculation assessment, show promise in personalized sepsis management. Current challenges include probe stability, cost, and clinical translation, with future directions focusing on portable POCT devices, multimodal imaging integration, and nanocarrier-based theragnostic systems. This technology represents a transformative approach to enhance the effectiveness of early sepsis diagnosis and treatment.