A new fluorescent probe for colorimetric and ratiometric detection of sulfur dioxide derivatives in liver cancer cells.

A new ratiometric fluorescent probe was constructed with hemicyanine and 7-nitrobenzofurazan for detection of sulfur dioxide derivatives (HSO/SO). The ratiometric response mode could be attributed to the efficient FRET (Förster resonance energy transfer) platform. The probe exbihited some desirable properties including fast response (within 2 minutes), good selectivity and high sensitivity. Moreover, the probe could detect endogenous HSO in liver cancer cells rather than normal liver cells, implying the diagnosal potential of the probe.