Hybrid fluorophores-based fluorogenic paper device for visually high-throughput detection of Cu2+ in real samples

Abstract Paper-based diagnostic assay is quite popular in point-of-care testing (POCT). In this work, we reported a series of hybrid fluorophores based on fluorescein derivatives and investigated their fluorescent properties in detail. To extend the practical application of these hybrid fluorophores, we further constructed the corresponding probes ( FN1-FN4 ) for Cu 2+ detection. In comparison with the other three probes, FN4 showed high selectivity and sensitivity, as well as response to Cu 2+ within 20 min. Particularly, by introducing this probe into the paper-based device, we could achieve simple, high-throughput, visual and highly sensitive platform for POC detection of Cu 2+ . Finally, we assessed the paper-based device in real samples such as serum, cytochylema and lake water to demonstrate its promising application. As a result, satisfied performance for Cu 2+ detection was achieved, which indicates the great potential of our strategy in the construction of POCT system for detecting analytes.