Fluorescent sensors for detecting anions

Nicola Edwards, Associate Professor of Chemistry at the University of St. Joseph, is conducting research on the development of fluorescent sensors for anion detection. Fluorescent (chemo)sensors are molecules that register changes in their “glow” (fluorescence ) when bound to an analyte (the substance of interest that is being studied), thus reporting the presence of that analyte. These changes can be detected with the naked eye. and/or instrumentation. Therefore, the presence of this invisible substance can now be detected. Fluorescent sensors are generally more sensitive and have lower limits of detection for a particular analyte compared to colorimetric sensors. Anions—chemical entities with an overall negative charge—are found everywhere and are involved in numerous chemical, biological, and industrial processes. As an example, cavity-fighting kinds of toothpaste and gels contain anion and fluoride. Additionally, chemical compounds containing anions, nitrate and phosphate are used in fertilizers. In this piece, Dr. Nicola Edwards discusses her ongoing work on developing fluorescent sensors for anions.