A simple highly selective ratiometric fluorescent probe for detection of peroxynitrite and its bioimaging applications

Peroxynitrite (ONOO⁻), a potent oxidant, plays an important regulation role in different physiopathological processes. Its overproduction can potentially cause several diseases. Therefore, being able to accurately and selectively monitor ONOO⁻ could help elucidate the interaction and function of ONOO⁻ in physiological and pathological processes. Herein, a novel naphthalimide derived ratiometric fluorescent probe was successfully designed and synthesized for monitoring ONOO⁻ in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells and zebrafish. The probe showed highly selective towards ONOO⁻ with satisfactory sensitivity (detection limit: 0.32 μM) and a significant 15 - fold enhancement of fluorescence ratio accompanied with a large blue shift of 110 nm. In addition, further biological experimental studies showed that the probe could track ONOO⁻ in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells and zebrafish animal models with specific sensitivity and reliability. Therefore, the probe can be expected to be a biological tool for developing the role of ONOO⁻ in physiological systems in the future.