A colorimetric and ratiometric fluorescent probe for distinguishing cysteine from biothiols in water and living cells

A merocyanine-based highly selective colorimetric and ratiometric fluorescent probe is described for Cys detection in water and diluted deproteinized human serum. Upon reaction with Cys in aqueous buffer solution, the probe showed a dramatic color change from faint yellow to pink and remarkable ratiometric fluorescence enhancement signals were also observed, which are ascribed to an intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) process. This strategy was based on modulating the merocyanine p-electron system by conjugation and removal of the acrylate group to release the chromophore group, resulting in a specific colorimetry and fluorescence response. The probe has low cytotoxicity and good cell permeability. It is readily employed for assessing the change of the intracellular Cys level.