A selective and sensitive near-infrared fluorescent probe for real-time detection of Cu(i)

The disruption of copper homeostasis (Cu⁺/Cu²⁺) may cause neurodegenerative disorders. Thus, the need for understanding the role of Cu⁺ in physiological and pathological processes prompted the development of improved methods of Cu⁺ analysis. Herein, a new near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent turn-on probe (NPCu) for the detection of Cu⁺ was developed based on a Cu⁺-mediated benzylic ether bond cleavage mechanism. The probe showed high selectivity and sensitivity toward Cu⁺, and was successfully applied for bioimaging of Cu⁺ in living cells.