MOF-based ratiometric fluorescent nanoprobe for quantitative detection of hydrogen sulfide in acute pancreatitis

Abstract

The timely detection of acute pancreatitis (AP) is crucial for mitigating its severe complications, including pancreatic necrosis and multi-system organ failure. In this work, we developed LMOF-BR, an innovative luminescent metal–organic framework (LMOF)-based ratiometric fluorescent nanoprobe, specifically designed for the sensitive and selective detection of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in AP. This nanoprobe employs a synthesized LMOF to provide a stable reference signal, and a fluorescent dye (BR) as the target recognizer and signal output unit, enabling H2S detection through single-excitation dual fluorescence emission. The LMOF-BR nanoprobe demonstrates significant advantages, including improved water solubility, superior photostability, a high signal-background ratio, and a low limit of detection (LOD), all of which are crucial for accurate detection in complex biological environments. Successful quantification of H2S in serum samples and AP mouse plasma has been achieved by LMOF-BR nanoprobe, showcasing notable accuracy and precision. The LMOF-BR nanoprobe holds great promise in advancing biosensing technology, particularly for the timely and reliable diagnosis of AP.