Hoechst-naphthalimide dyad with dual emissions as specific and ratiometric sensor for nucleus DNA damage

A ratiometric fluorescent sensor (Hoe-NI) was developed by connecting a nucleus targeted Hoechst unit to a naphthalimide dye via “click chemistry”. The sensor achieves high specific nucleus labeling with wash-free staining method in various kinds of living cells. The fluorescence ratio of the two emission bands (450 nm for Hoechst and 505 nm for naphthalimide) is changed sensitively to the variation of DNA concentrations, which provides the quantitative information in the processes of DNA damage induced by hydroxyl radicals and antitumor drug. Therefore, Hoe-NI is a recommendable sensor for the monitoring of nuclear DNA damage that reveals the health status of cells.