A simple TICT/ICT based molecular probe exhibiting ratiometric fluorescence Turn-On response in selective detection of Cu2+.

[Display omitted] • The probe APDA exhibited sensitivity for Cu2+ ion in 80% aqueous acetonitrile medium. • Probe APDA shows dual emission due to TICT and ICT states. • The hydrolysis of imine bond of probe APDA in the presence of Cu2+ ion, rejuvenate aldehyde derivative. • The probe APDA has been applied on test paper strip to detect Cu2+ ion with naked-eye sensitive response. The work reported herein describes photophysical behavior of a new fluorescent probe APDA. The probe exhibited sensitivity for Cu2+ ion in 80% aqueous acetonitrile medium. Probe shows dual emission due to TICT and ICT states and upon interaction with different metal ions Cu2+ induces hydrolysis of imine bond to rejuvenate aldehyde derivative with ratiometric "turn–On" fluorescence response, through ICT state while emission due to TICT state get diminished. Similarly, the synthesized model compound ADA under similar experimental condition supported hydrolysis of imine bond in the presence of copper. Jobs plot analysis, based on emission titration data suggested a 1:1 binding stoichiometry between probe APDA and Cu2+ ion. The limit of detection (LOD) was found to be 4.4 × 10-8 M (44 nM). The probe has been applied on test paper strip to detect Cu2+ ion with naked-eye sensitive response. Also, the cell imaging studies revealed the potential applicability of probe to detect Cu2+ ion in live cells. The mechanism of sensing was confirmed by 1H, 13C NMR, FTIR and mass spectrometry data analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]