New fluorescence probe for Fe³⁺ with bis-rhodamine and its application as a molecular logic gate

A bis-rhodamine based fluorescent probe R1 for naked-eye detection of Fe(3+) with enhanced sensitivity compared to a mono-rhodamine derivative that shows selectivity for Hg(2+), has been synthesized. The 1:1 stoichiometric structure of R1 and Fe(3+) is confirmed using a Job's plot estimation and density functional theory calculations. The reversibility of R1 is verified through its spectral response toward Fe(3+) and S(2-) titration experiments. Using Fe(3+) and S(2-) as chemical inputs and the fluorescence intensity signal as outputs, R1 can be utilized as an INHIBIT logic gate at molecular level. Fluorescent imaging for Fe(3+) in living HL-7702 cells have also been successfully performed.