Graphene quantum dots based fluorescence turn-on nanoprobe for highly sensitive and selective imaging of hydrogen sulfide in living cells

Abstract

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), being an important gaseous signaling molecule, has been gaining increasing attention for its involvement in a wide range of physiological processes. Herein, we developed a novel fluorescence turn-on nanoprobe for selective and sensitive detection of H₂S based on graphene quantum dots (GQDs) conjugated with (2,4-dinitrophenoxy)tyrosine (DNPTYR). Taking advantage of its high fluorescence quantum yield, biocompatibility, photostability, and ease to be uptaken by cells, the GQD-based fluorescence probe was further employed for real-time monitoring of the triggered dynamic change of the intracellular H₂S level in live cells.