A zinc fluorescent sensor used to detect mercury (II) and hydrosulfide

Abstract

A zinc sensor based on quinoline and morpholine has been synthesized. The sensor selectively fluoresces in the presence of Zn2 +, while not for other metal ions. Absorbance changes in the 350 nm region are observed when Zn2 + binds, which binds in a 1:1 ratio. The sensor fluoresces due to Zn2 + above pH values of 6.0 and in the biological important region. The Zn2 +-sensor complex has the unique ability to detect both Hg2 + and HS−. The fluorescence of the Zn2 +-sensor complex is quenched when it is exposed to aqueous solutions of Hg2 + with sub-micromolar detection levels for Hg2 +. The fluorescence of the Zn2 +-sensor complex is also quenched by aqueous solutions of hydrosulfide. The sensor was used to detect Zn2 + and Hg2 + in living cells.