Structure–Activity Relationship Guided Design of a Highly Sensitive Turn‐on Fluorescent Probe for Imaging Inflammation‐Associated‐HOCl in Early Liver Fibrosis
Abstract
Early-stage liver fibrosis is potentially reversible, yet its timely diagnosis remains challenging due to the lack of sensitive molecular imaging tools. Hypochlorous acid (HOCl), an inflammation-associated reactive oxygen species has emerged as a key pathogenic mediator and early biomarker of fibrotic progression. Herein, guided by a structure-activity relationship (SAR) strategy, three donor-π-acceptor (D-π-A) fluorescent probes (PMBT, CMBT, and TMBT) were rationally designed and systematically evaluated for HOCl detection. Density functional theory calculations (DFT) and spectroscopic studies reveal donor-dependent electronic distributions and distinct HOCl-responsive behaviors. Among them, PMBT exhibits a rapid turn-on response (
Fields of Study & Subjects
Molecular Sensors and Ion Detection
Luminescence and Fluorescent Materials
Sulfur Compounds in Biology
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Chemistry - A European Journal
- Volume
- 32
- Issue
- 15
- Pages
- e03661–e03661
- Publication date
- 7 February 2026
- Language
- EN