Extremely selective "turn-on" fluorescence detection of hypochlorite confirmed by proof-of-principle neurological studies via esterase action in living cells.

Highly specific and sensitive fluorescence detection of hypochlorite in nonbiotic pure water (rapid "turn-on", ~400 fold, λ(em) ~ 560 nm) as well as in living neuronal cell cultures (neutral pH) involves oxidation of a 2-sulfide-2-benzoic acid pendent group in a new meso-thienyl-BODIPY donor-acceptor probe.

Novel intramolecular π-π-interaction in a BODIPY system by oxidation of a single selenium center: geometrical stamping and spectroscopic and spectrometric distinctions.

A new BODIPY system displaying an intramolecular π-π-interaction was synthesized and studied. When the selenium center was oxidized, the substituted phenyl group undergoes π-π stacking with one side of the BODIPY core. The oxidized form showed, not only a down-field shift in the NMR peak, but also splitting due to geometrical changes that arise when going from Cs to C1. The compound was characterized by X-ray diffraction; DFT methods helped elucidate the influence of the unexpected π-π stack and its connection to the photophysical properties imparted by the Se oxidation.

Novel sulphur-rich BODIPY systems that enable stepwise fluorescent O-atom turn-on and H2O2 neuronal system probing.

Bis-arylsulfide BODIPY systems were prepared and studied for multiple O-atom sensing (at 522 nm); 2- and 3-atom loading was optimal (50-fold, "turn on"). Neuronal studies showed greater H(2)O(2) sensitivity than 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein diacetate. The novel 1,3,6-trimethyl BODIPY formed as a biproduct under Lindsey conditions.