A two fluorophore embedded probe for collective and ratiometric detection of Hg2+ and F− ions.

A novel fluorescein-rhodamine dyad probe has been synthesized and its chemosensory applications are explored. Anion and cation specific responses of the probe permit ratiometric detection of Hg 2+ and fluoride ions, individually and collectively, with different fluorescence outputs. The presence of other commonly coexistent ions does not affect the Hg 2+ and fluoride ion detection ability of the probe. The probe is highly sensitive to Hg 2+ and fluoride ions and it can detect Hg 2+ and fluoride ions even at ppb level concentrations. The probe is non-toxic under the experimental conditions, cell permeable and useful for the imaging of intracellular Hg 2+ and fluoride ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]