Small-molecule NIR chemosensor for detecting hypochlorous acid within biosystem and visualizing cell deaths

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Chemical Biology
• In Vivo Imaging

Background:

• Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a vital reactive oxygen species involved in physiological and pathological processes.
• HOCl serves as a critical biomarker for inflammation and hepatic damage.
• Near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence probes offer advantages for in vivo imaging due to minimal tissue damage and enhanced penetration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize a novel NIR fluorescence probe, NS-Id.
• To evaluate the probe's sensitivity, selectivity, and response time for HOCl detection.
• To demonstrate the probe's utility in visualizing HOCl and monitoring viscosity changes in biological systems.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of the NS-Id fluorescence probe.
• Spectroscopic analysis to determine probe sensitivity and response kinetics.
• In vitro and in vivo imaging experiments in cells and zebrafish.
• Monitoring of viscosity changes during apoptosis and ferroptosis.

Main Results:

• The NS-Id probe demonstrated high sensitivity (51 nM) and an ultrafast response (20 s) to HOCl.
• Selective detection of HOCl was achieved at an emission wavelength of 591 nm.
• Successful visualization of HOCl in cellular and zebrafish models.
• The probe effectively monitored viscosity variations during different cell death pathways at 562 nm.

Conclusions:

• NS-Id is a novel NIR fluorescence probe with excellent sensitivity and selectivity for HOCl detection.
• The probe's ability to visualize HOCl and monitor viscosity makes it a valuable tool for biological research.
• NS-Id holds potential for real-time, selective monitoring of HOCl and viscosity in various biological contexts.