Anti-quenching NIR-II molecular fluorophores for in vivo high-contrast imaging and pH sensing

The contrast and sensitivity of in vivo fluorescence imaging has been revolutionized by molecular fluorophores operating in the second near-infrared window (NIR-II; 1000-1700 nm), but an ongoing challenge is the solvatochromism-caused quenching in aqueous solution for the long-wavelength absorbing fluorophores. Herein, we develop a series of anti-quenching pentamethine cyanine fluorophores that significantly overcome the severe solvatochromism, thus affording stable absorption/emission beyond 1000 nm with up to ~ 44-fold enhanced brightness and superior photostability in aqueous solution. These advantages allow for deep optical penetration (8 mm) as well as high-contrast and highly-stable lymphatic imaging…

• SA
  Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality

  Awards: 17JC1400100, 2017YFA0207303