Near infrared fluorescent probes for detecting and imaging active small molecules

Near infrared (NIR) fluorescent probes have the advantages of low background interference, strong tissue penetration and small tissue damage. Many fluorescent dyes, such as BODIPY, cyanine, rhodamine and coumarin, have been used as fluorophores to design NIR fluorescent probes. Over the past few decades, scientists have reported a large number of NIR fluorescent probes based on different design principles. This paper summarizes and discusses the types and properties of fluorophores designed for NIR fluorescent probes. It also discusses the latest research achievements in the detection and imaging of reactive oxygen species, reactive nitrogen and active sulfur in cells or in vivo. In addition, based on existing research, a concise brief introduction to the future development of NIR molecular fluorescence probes is proposed, which provides a reference for the current research direction.