A novel p-dimethylaminophenylether-based fluorescent probe for the detection of native ONOO− in cells and zebrafish

Abstract

Peroxynitrite (ONOO⁻) is a highly reactive substance, and plays an essential part in maintaining cellular homeostasis. It is crucial to monitor the ONOO⁻ level in cells in normal and abnormal states. We introduced a p-dimethylaminophenylether-based fluorescent probe PDPE-PN, which could be synthesized readily. The new probe had prominent sensitivity and specificity, and a fast response towards ONOO⁻. The spectral performance of probe PDPE-PN was outstanding and the limit of detection was 69 nM. Probe PDPE-PN with low toxicity was applied to detect endogenous/exogenous ONOO⁻ in RAW 264.7 macrophages and zebrafish. Importantly, successful application of the new receptor opens up new ideas for the design of ONOO⁻ probes.