A novel boronic acid-based fluorescent sensor for selectively recognizing Fe³⁺ ion in real time

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Accurate and rapid detection of Fe³⁺ ions is crucial for various applications.
• Existing sensors often lack the speed and selectivity required for real-time monitoring.
• Boronic acid derivatives show promise as fluorescent sensors due to their unique chemical properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a novel boronic acid-based fluorescent sensor for Fe³⁺ ion detection.
• To evaluate the sensor's response time, selectivity, and anti-interference capabilities.
• To assess the sensor's applicability in real-world samples for continuous monitoring.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a novel boronic acid-based compound (sensor 4).
• Fluorescence spectroscopy was used to monitor the sensor's response to Fe³⁺ ions and other interfering ions.
• Selectivity and interference studies were conducted using a range of metal ions.
• Binding activity tests were performed in rabbit plasma and other real samples.

Main Results:

• Sensor 4 exhibited an immediate fluorescence quench (96%) upon addition of Fe³⁺ ions.
• The sensor demonstrated high selectivity for Fe³⁺ over numerous other metal ions.
• The presence of two boronic acid functionalities contributed to the selective Fe³⁺ recognition.
• Excellent anti-interference ability was confirmed through interference experiments.
• Successful application in real samples, including rabbit plasma, and on thin layers.

Conclusions:

• The novel boronic acid-based sensor 4 provides a rapid and highly selective method for Fe³⁺ ion detection.
• Its excellent anti-interference properties and applicability in real samples suggest its potential for continuous Fe³⁺ monitoring.
• This sensor represents a significant advancement in real-time detection of Fe³⁺ ions.