A naphthalimide-based turn-on fluorescence probe for peroxynitrite detection and imaging in living cells.

Peroxynitrite (ONOO(-)) is a potent biological oxidant that plays a significant role in diverse physiological and pathological processes. A novel fluorescent probe HCA-OH was developed for specific and sensitive detection of peroxynitrite, and displayed a significant fluorescence turn-on signal. With low cytotoxicity and good photostability, the probe HCA-OH could be applied in imaging ONOO(-) distribution in HepG2 cells and live C. elegans in real time. Therefore, the probe can be a promising tool for imaging in vivo.