From molecule to device: Nanomolar Co2+ and Cu2+ colorimetric and fluorometric sensing supported by cell line studies
A straightforward multicomponent strategy was utilized to develop 6‑bromo-3-(2-(2-(4-(diphenylamino)phenyl)-1H-phenanthro[9,10-d]imidazol-1-yl)thiazol-4-yl)-2H-chromen-2-one (TDCB), a novel triphenylamine–coumarin chemosensor with imidazole and thiazole binding sites. The probe produced clear colour changes and fluorescence quenching with nanomolar sensitivity, demonstrating strong ICT-driven solvatochromism and outstanding selectivity toward Co2+ and Cu2+ ions. Strong and selective 1:1 complex formation with both metal ions was confirmed by UV-visible and fluorescence measurements, competitive experiments, and Job's plot analysis. Additionally, TDCB showed good cycle stability and reversible acidochromic behaviour toward trifluoroacetic acid. Charge redistribution and decreased HOMO–LUMO energy gaps upon metal coordination were revealed by DFT calculations, which validated the sensing mechanism. Furthermore, the probe was successfully incorporated into silica microsphere- and paper-based devices for quick visual detection and allowed fluorescence imaging of Co2+ ions in MDA-MB-231 cells. These findings demonstrate TDCB's versatility as a platform for useful analytical applications and metal-ion sensing.
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A straightforward multicomponent strategy was utilized to develop 6‑bromo-3-(2-(2-(4-(diphenylamino)phenyl)-1H-phenanthro[9,10-d]imidazol-1-yl)thiazol-4-yl)-2H-chromen-2-one (…