An AIE-based ratiometric fluorescent probe for highly selective detection of H₂S in plant stress responses

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) has emerged as a crucial signaling molecule in plant stress responses, playing a significant role in regulating various physiological and biochemical processes. In this study, we report an aggregation-induced emission (AIE)-based ratiometric fluorescent probe TPN-H₂S for the highly selective detection of H₂S in plant tissues. The probe exhibited excellent sensitivity and selectivity towards H₂S over other analytes, enabling real-time monitoring of H₂S dynamics in living cell. Furthermore, the AIE-based ratiometric probe TPN-H₂S allowed for accurate quantification of H₂S levels, providing valuable insights into the spatiotemporal distribution of Cys metabolism produces H₂S. Importantly, the physiological pathways and signaling mechanisms of H₂S production of was investigated in plant tissues under Cr and nano-plastics stress. Utilizing a high-throughput screening approach, we identified exogenous substances such as calcium chloride (CaCl₂) and abscisic acid (ABA) that could induce higher level of H₂S production during the stress response in plants. Overall, those findings demonstrate the potential of the AIE-based ratiometric fluorescent probe TPN-H₂S as a powerful tool for unraveling the role of H₂S in plant stress responses and pave the way for further exploration of H₂S-mediated signaling pathways in plants.