In the realm of chemical biology and diagnostics, a significant stride has been made in the development of near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent probes for detecting hypochlorous acid (HClO) and hypochlorite. This advancement, detailed in a recent review published in the journal *Sensors and Actuators Reports* (translated as *传感器与执行器报告*), holds profound implications for various industries, including the energy sector, where monitoring chemical processes is crucial.
Hypochlorous acid, a key player in physiological and pathological processes, has been linked to numerous disease states when its production is dysregulated. The ability to monitor HClO in vivo is therefore pivotal for understanding disease pathogenesis. Among the various detection strategies, NIR fluorescent probes stand out due to their unparalleled advantages for bio-imaging. This technology offers deeper tissue penetration and reduced autofluorescence, making it ideal for real-time monitoring in complex biological systems.
The review, led by Zhongchang Wang from the Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Eco-Agricultural Biotechnology around Hongze Lake at Huaiyin Normal University, critically evaluates the latest advances (2021–2025) in the design and construction of organic NIR fluorescent probes for selectively monitoring HClO. Wang and his team systematically emphasize four major recognition strategies: the oxidation of carbon-carbon unsaturated bonds, chalcogenides, nitrogen-containing groups, and phenol analogues.
“One of the overarching challenges in this field is balancing the stability of the fluorophore with the reactivity of the recognition moiety,” Wang explains. “This delicate interplay is crucial for ensuring accurate and reliable detection.”
The review also discusses the trend towards multifunctional and theranostic probes, which combine therapeutic and diagnostic capabilities. This dual functionality could revolutionize medical diagnostics and treatment, offering a more holistic approach to patient care.
Moreover, the quest for activatable probes in the second near-infrared (NIR-II) window presents a formidable challenge. NIR-II probes offer even greater tissue penetration and reduced scattering, potentially enabling deeper and more precise imaging.
“The development of activatable probes in the NIR-II window is a significant step forward,” says Wang. “It opens up new possibilities for non-invasive, high-resolution imaging in deep tissues.”
The commercial impacts of this research are substantial. In the energy sector, for instance, the ability to monitor chemical processes in real-time can enhance safety and efficiency. NIR fluorescent probes could be used to detect and monitor chemical reactions in energy production and storage systems, ensuring optimal performance and minimizing risks.
Looking ahead, the review outlines future prospects aimed at overcoming current bottlenecks and propelling the field towards clinical translation. The continued development of advanced NIR fluorescent probes remains a prominent and vital trend for future research in chemical biology and diagnostics.
As the field evolves, the integration of these probes into commercial applications is expected to grow, driven by the need for more precise and efficient monitoring tools. The research led by Zhongchang Wang and his team represents a significant step forward in this exciting and rapidly advancing field.