LAUSR

Abstract A novel and simple probe (denoted LN-1) with AIE property based on malononitrile and 4-diethylaminobenzaldehyde was designed and synthesized. The use of two different mechanisms for the independent detection of Fe3+ and CN− is more convenient and efficient than the continuous detection of anions and cations. The detection mechanism was verified by mass spectrometry (MS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrum, and particle size distribution. Under optimized experimental conditions, excellent calibration curves were obtained for the LN-1-Fe3+ and the LN-1-CN− with detection limits of 0.17 and 0.39 μM, respectively. This method was successfully applied to detect the content of Fe3+ and total inorganic iron in actual samples. Owing to its low cytotoxicity, good biocompatibility, and enhanced orange emission in aqueous solution, the LN-1 was successfully applied for CN− imaging in live cells. In addition, Fe3+ and EDTA incorporation into the LN-1 changed the fluorescent intensity, which is beneficial in constructing ultrasensitive INHIBIT logic gate.