NIR-II Fluorescent Probe for Detecting Trimethylamine Based on Intermolecular Charge Transfer.

Area of Science:

• Organic Chemistry
• Biomedical Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Trimethylamine (TMA) is a biomarker linked to cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes.
• Accurate TMA detection is crucial for early disease diagnosis and management.
• Existing detection methods may lack the sensitivity, specificity, or speed required for clinical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel small organic fluorophore molecule for near-infrared-II (NIR-II) fluorescence detection of TMA.
• To create a highly selective and stable fluorescent probe for TMA with fast response times.
• To demonstrate the potential of the developed probe for diagnosing TMA-associated diseases.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a small organic molecule (ZS-1010) featuring a strong push-pull electron system for NIR-II fluorescence.
• Investigation of ZS-1010's photophysical properties, including absorption and emission in the NIR-II region.
• Evaluation of ZS-1010's fluorescence response to TMA, focusing on selectivity, sensitivity, response speed, and pH stability.

Main Results:

• ZS-1010 exhibits strong absorption and emission in the NIR-II region due to its push-pull electron system.
• TMA, a strong electron donor, interacts with ZS-1010, altering its dipole moment and causing fluorescence quenching.
• The ZS-1010 probe demonstrated high selectivity for TMA, rapid response, and excellent pH stability.
• The probe operates effectively in the NIR-II window, allowing for deep tissue penetration.

Conclusions:

• ZS-1010 represents a novel NIR-II fluorescent probe for sensitive and selective TMA detection.
• This probe offers advantages such as deep tissue penetration and fast response, making it suitable for disease diagnosis.
• The development paves the way for improved diagnostic tools for cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes.