A cell compatible fluorescent chemosensor for Hg2+ based on a novel rhodamine derivative that works as a molecular keypad lock

• DOI: 10.1039/c1ra00488c
• Publication Date: 2011-09-28T00:07:28Z
• Authors: Yinghui Wang; Yanqi Huang; Bin Li; Liming Zhang; Hang Song; Hong Jiang; Jie Gao
• Keywords: Keypad; Rhodamine; Lock (firearm)

A novel fluorescent chemosensor based on rhodamine derivative (Rh1) has been designed and synthesized for detection of Hg2+ ions, which exhibits high sensitivity selectivity over other metal ions in aqueous solution living cells. Moreover, this "Off–On"-type sensor could successfully mimic a molecular level keypad lock the presence Cu2+ ions. Stimulated by two chemical inputs (Hg2+ Cu2+), Rh1 undergoes transformation structure between spirocyclic ring-opened spirocyclic, results change fluorescence. Significantly, outputs system depend not only proper combination but also correct order input signals, is most important feature system. Only specific sequence inputs, i.e. password, strong fluorescence emission at 555 nm can be used to "open" lock. Therefore, potential application security devices, authorize user, verify authentication product, or initiate higher process.