Far-red/NIR BODIPY probes in focus: tailored strategies for organelle-specific imaging and biomedical applications

Organelles are vital for cellular homeostasis, and their dysfunction is closely linked to various diseases. Consequently, there is growing interest in the development of organelle-targeted probes that facilitate precise diagnosis and therapy while minimizing off-target effects. Fluorescence imaging, particularly utilizing far-red and near-infrared (NIR) fluorophores, has emerged as a potent tool owing to its deep tissue penetration, low background interference, and high spatiotemporal resolution. Among organic fluorophores, BODIPY-based dyes are particularly noteworthy for their excellent photophysical properties and structural tunability. This review highlights recent advancements in the design of far-red/NIR BODIPY fluorophores engineered for organelle specificity, with a focus on mitochondria, lysosomes, and lipid droplets (LDs). We explore the design strategies, responsive mechanisms, and biomedical applications of these nanoplatforms, while outlining the current challenges and future opportunities. By emphasizing the unique potential of BODIPY scaffolds, this review provides insights into their role in advancing organelle-targeted imaging and theranostics for clinical translation.