Sequential Multiple-Target Sensor: In³⁺, Fe²⁺, and Fe³⁺ Discrimination by an Anthracene-Based Probe

Indium is a nonphysiological toxic metal widely used in industry. While misunderstood, its toxicity is proposed to be linked to a perturbation of Fe³⁺ homeostasis through the binding of In³⁺ ions to essential iron metalloproteins such as transferrins. Therefore, the monitoring of In³⁺ and Fe³⁺ in biological environments is of prime interest for both basic research and diagnosis. Here we report the design of a salen-type anthracene-based probe able to selectively sense and discriminate In³⁺ and Fe^2+/3+ ions by fluoro-colorimetry.