Sensitive detection of bisulfite by a novel quinoxalinyl-based fluorescent probe and its applications in food detection and bioimaging

Bisulfite (HSO₃^-) is a widely used food additive that plays a crucial role in many physiological processes. Nevertheless, excessive amounts of HSO₃^- can pose unpredictable risks to human health. Hence, monitoring residual HSO₃^- in food samples is crucial for safeguarding human health. In this work, a ratiometric fluorescent probe (DPTI) for detecting HSO₃^- was synthesized, derived from camphorquinone. This probe showed a colorimetric and fluorescence dual response to HSO₃^- within 10 min with high selectivity (LOD = 0.07 μM). In addition, the DPTI probe could be used for detecting HSO₃^- content in food samples. Additionally, the good biocompatibility of the DPTI probe makes it suitable for the fluorescence bioimaging of HSO₃^- in living organisms.