Organic chemosensors: A comprehensive review of lead, cadmium, and arsenic ion detection strategies

The presence of toxic heavy metals in the environment causes serious health problems, which prompts an urgent need for effective detection methods. Among various approaches, organic chemosensors have emerged as powerful tools due to their portability, affordability, sensitivity, and selectivity. This review emphasizes the reported organic molecular probes that specifically detect metal ions like lead (Pb2+), cadmium (Cd2+), and arsenic (As3+/As5+), offering visible or fluorescent responses. This review highlights recent progress from 2015 to 2025 in the development of organic chemosensors for detecting these hazardous metals in environmental and biological samples. Special attention is given to sensor design strategies, sensing mechanisms, and real-world applications, emphasizing their role in advancing safer and more sustainable monitoring practices.