Enhancing biological imaging with high-performance probes based on thermally activated delayed fluorescence

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Imaging
• Organic Electronics
• Materials Science

Background:

• Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials exhibit high quantum efficiency.
• TADF probes can suppress short-lived background fluorescence, improving signal-to-noise ratio.
• Recent advancements focus on organic TADF probes for advanced imaging applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review recent advancements in organic TADF probes.
• To analyze their photophysical mechanisms, structural design, and encapsulation strategies.
• To highlight their applications and discuss current challenges in biological imaging.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on organic TADF probes.
• Analysis of photophysical properties and structural designs.
• Evaluation of encapsulation strategies for biocompatibility and photostability.

Main Results:

• TADF probes show promise in organelle-targeted imaging and dynamic live-cell tracking.
• Successful *in vivo* imaging demonstrated in model organisms like zebrafish and mice.
• Key challenges identified include oxygen sensitivity and limited long-term stability.

Conclusions:

• High-performance TADF probes are crucial for enhancing imaging quality and enabling deeper tissue penetration.
• These probes support long-term cellular studies, significantly advancing biomedical research.
• Further development is needed to overcome limitations for broader diagnostic imaging applications.