Fluorogenic and chromogenic probe for rapid detection of a nerve agent simulant DCP

Area of Science:

• Chemical sensing
• Analytical chemistry
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Diethyl chlorophosphate (DCP) is a simulant for nerve agents, necessitating reliable detection methods.
• Existing detection methods may lack speed, visual clarity, or sensitivity.
• Development of novel probes is crucial for rapid threat assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel fluorogenic and visual probe for the detection of diethyl chlorophosphate (DCP).
• To characterize the probe's response to DCP, focusing on fluorescence and colorimetric changes.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of the N-(rhodamine B)-lactam-2-aminoethanol (RB-AE) probe.
• Exposure of the RB-AE probe to DCP under assay conditions.
• Monitoring for changes in fluorescence and visible color.

Main Results:

• The RB-AE probe exhibited rapid and clear fluorescence enhancement upon interaction with DCP.
• A distinct visual color change was observed, indicating the presence of DCP.
• The probe's response is attributed to oxazoline formation following phosphorylation by DCP.

Conclusions:

• The developed RB-AE probe is effective for the rapid, visual, and fluorogenic detection of DCP.
• This probe offers a sensitive and straightforward tool for identifying nerve agent simulants.
• The probe's dual-mode detection (visual and fluorescent) enhances its utility in various applications.