Unveiling the heterogeneity of serum copper ions in neurodegenerative diseases <i>via</i> a dopamine-based carbon nanoprobe

Copper plays an essential role in human life as it participates in several physiological processes, such as antioxidant defense, maintaining blood vessel integrity, and neurotransmitter synthesis. In the nervous system in particular, copper is essential for neuronal function. Research has shown that alterations in copper levels, <i>i.e.</i>, either their excess or deficiency, may cause neurodegeneration, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Wilson's disease. Thus, careful tracking of copper levels in serum is important for preventing neurodegeneration. This study reports a new CD-based fluorescence turn-on copper(II) probe with exceptional selectivity, high sensitivity, and considerably enhanced emission intensity. Because of these attractive sensing properties, copper ions in the serum of patients with neurodegenerative diseases were monitored.