A fluorescent probe for thiols based on strong nucleophilic attack of sulfhydryl and its bioimaging

A fluorescent probe has been synthesized and characterized as a selective and sensitive sensor for thiol detection. The probe exhibits a rapid response and high sensitivity to thiols in HEPES:DMF = 1:1 (v/v pH = 7.0) solution. The practical utility of the probe was demonstrated by its application to the detection of thiols in living cells.