A pyrene-derived fluorescence probe based on π-π stacking and excimer formation for DNA detection and intracellular visualization

Key Points

• The aim is to create a new fluorescent probe for effective DNA detection and visualization within cells.
• Designed a fluorescent probe by linking pyrene to a naphthalimide-imidazole unit via a benzene spacer.
• Examined the functionality based on π–π stacking and excimer formation for enhanced fluorescence properties.
• Conducted tests for intracellular visualization of DNA using the developed probe.
• The probe exhibited strong fluorescence signaling upon binding to DNA.
• Demonstrated effective cellular uptake, allowing for visualization of DNA within live cells.
• Highlighted potential applications in biological imaging and detection of nucleic acids.