Fluorescent Probes for Applications in Bioimaging

Optical bioimaging has played a central role in fundamental research and clinical practice. The signals emitted by biological tissues can provide molecular information about various physiological and pathophysiological processes. NIR light (650–1700 nm) can penetrate the blood and biological tissues more profoundly and effectively because, at longer wavelengths, less light is diffused and absorbed. Therefore, many probes have been developed for bioimaging in the NIR window for real-time, high-sensitivity deep tissue imaging. The library of optical probes has been expanded in recent years to include a wide range of probes with emission in the Red-NIR window. The emergence of these new contrast media has provided an essential alternative for realizing the full potential of bioimaging. The most recent advances in small molecule potential probes for detection and imaging in biological systems are examined below.