Molecular Fluorescent Probes for the Detection and Imaging of Sulfane Sulfur and Reactive Selenium Species

Abstract

Oxidative stress occurs when the intracellular redox homeostasis is disrupted, which is considered to be one of the important factors leading to aging and disease. Antioxidants of non-enzymatic reactive chalcogenide species play an important role in redox homeostasis, among which sulfane sulfur species and reactive selenium species are particularly indispensable. As a class of antioxidants with potential clinical biomarker value, the intracellular levels and distribution of sulfane sulfur and reactive selenium species can directly prove the dynamic state of oxidative stress, which may reveal the difference between physiological and pathological processes. Fluorescence bioimaging technology has the advantages of high temporal and spatial resolution, low invasiveness and fast response, and has become a powerful tool for intracellular detection. Herein, we have summarized the design strategy and development of fluorescent probes for the detection of sulfane sulfur and reactive selenium species. We have also highlighted the important physiological and pathological roles and mechanisms of these reactive species. We expect to point out a path centred on fluorescence imaging for the detection of representative biological reactive species in living systems.