A zinc fluorescent sensor used to detect mercury (II) and hydrosulfide

Abstract A zinc sensor based on quinoline and morpholine has been synthesized. The sensor selectively fluoresces in the presence of Zn 2 + , while not for other metal ions. Absorbance changes in the 350 nm region are observed when Zn 2 + binds, which binds in a 1:1 ratio. The sensor fluoresces due to Zn 2 + above pH values of 6.0 and in the biological important region. The Zn 2 + -sensor complex has the unique ability to detect both Hg 2 + and HS − . The fluorescence of the Zn 2 + -sensor complex is quenched when it is exposed to aqueous solutions of Hg 2 + with sub-micromolar detection levels for Hg 2 + . The fluorescence of the Zn 2 + -sensor complex is also quenched by aqueous solutions of hydrosulfide. The sensor was used to detect Zn 2 + and Hg 2 + in living cells.