A Single Fluorescent Probe to Visualize Hydrogen Sulfide and Hydrogen Polysulfides with Different Fluorescence Signals

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and hydrogen polysulfides (H2Sn, n>1) are endogenous regulators of many physiological processes. In order to better understand the symbiotic relationship and cellular cross-talk between H2S and H2Sn, it is highly desirable to develop single fluorescent probes which enable dual-channel discrimination between H2S and H2Sn. Herein, we report the rational design, synthesis, and evaluation of the first dual-detection fluorescent probe DDP-1 that can visualize H2S and H2Sn with different fluorescence signals. The probe showed high selectivity and sensitivity to H2S and H2Sn in aqueous media and in cells.