A new dithieno[2,3-b]pyridine-fused BODIPY fluorescent probe for specific Cu²⁺ recognition

In this study, we developed a novel fluorescent probe (BPS) based on dithieno[2,3-b]pyridine-fused BODIPY, which demonstrated excellent photophysical properties. BPS enables the sensitive and specific detection of Cu²⁺, with a detection limit of 17 μM, allowing for trace detection. Additionally, BPS exhibits strong anti-interference ability, maintaining selectivity for Cu²⁺ even in the presence of other ions. It produces a clearly visible color change under both natural light and 365 nm UV light. Importantly, BPS is particularly effective for detecting copper ions in real water samples. With its high sensitivity and specific recognition of copper ions, BPS provides an effective analytical tool for environmental monitoring and bioanalysis, making it highly promising for applications in analytical chemistry and environmental safety.