A selective and sensitive near-infrared fluorescent probe for real-time detection of Cu(i).

The disruption of copper homeostasis (Cu + /Cu 2+ ) may cause neurodegenerative disorders. Thus, the need for understanding the role of Cu + in physiological and pathological processes prompted the development of improved methods of Cu + analysis. Herein, a new near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent turn-on probe (NPCu) for the detection of Cu + was developed based on a Cu + -mediated benzylic ether bond cleavage mechanism. The probe showed high selectivity and sensitivity toward Cu + , and was successfully applied for bioimaging of Cu + in living cells.