Pillararene-based rare-earth luminescent probe for two-channel simultaneous detection of ROS and ATP in living cells†

Abstract

Exploring the fluctuation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in living systems is significant for the early diagnosis of many diseases. However, the simultaneous detection of ROS and ATP is still challenging. Herein, a supramolecular fluorescent probe (G₃⊂CP5) was designed for two-channel simultaneous detection of H₂O₂ and ATP. G₃⊂CP5 consists of an Eu(III)-complex and water-soluble pillar[5]arene (CP5), achieving supramolecular assembly via synergistic coordinated, host–guest and amphiphilic interactions. Phenylboric acid groups in the ligand can interact with H₂O₂, and CP5 exhibits host–guest recognition toward ATP. As a consequence, the phenylboric acid groups and CP5 are the responsive moieties for H₂O₂ and ATP, respectively. Optical experiments demonstrated that G₃⊂CP5 exhibited low limits of detection and could respond to H₂O₂ and ATP in two channels to reduce mutual interference. Significantly, the probe shows good mitochondrial targeting. The fluorescent sensing of H₂O₂ and ATP in both HeLa cells and RAW264.7 macrophages was also confirmed. As a consequence, taking advantage of the superior luminescence of rare-earth complexes and the precise recognition of pillar[n]arenes, this work prepared a fluorescent probe for simultaneous detection of H₂O₂ and ATP, providing opportunities for further accurate biosensing.