Dual-response fluorescent triphenylamine chemoprobe HN2 for the detection of Cu2+ ions and H2S: Applications in real samples and biological imaging

Abstract

The pervasive presence of the heavy metal ion Cu²⁺ and the harmful gas H₂S in the environment and foodstuffs constitutes a significant health hazard. To address this issue, we developed a novel dual-response, multifunctional fluorescent chemoprobe, HN2, based on triphenylamine. This probe facilitates the continuous detection of Cu²⁺ and H₂S through an “on-off-on” fluorescence response mechanism. HN2 demonstrates exceptional selectivity, rapid response, reversible interaction capabilities, and a high quantum yield (42.54 %), coupled with remarkably low detection limits (0.550 nmol L⁻¹ for Cu²⁺ and 0.074 nmol L⁻¹ for H₂S). Moreover, HN2 has shown great promise in detecting these substances in authentic wine samples and has been successfully employed for visual monitoring of gaseous H₂S emissions from decaying shrimp and pork. Importantly, the probe's efficacy in detecting Cu²⁺ and H₂S has been corroborated through imaging techniques in HeLa cells and zebrafish.