Near-infrared fluorescent probe for real-time monitoring of sulfhydryl dynamics in acute alcoholic liver injury models

Abstract

Acute alcoholic liver injury (AALI) is characterized by liver inflammation and dysfunction, primarily due to excessive alcohol consumption, which triggers oxidative stress and fatty degeneration. Thiols play a crucial role in mitigating oxidative stress-induced cell damage, owing to their antioxidant and detoxifying properties. Consequently, accurate monitoring of intracellular thiol levels is essential for assessing the severity and progression of AALI. To achieve this, we developed a series of near-infrared fluorescent probes by conjugating 2, 4-dinitrobenzenesulfonyl chloride with a dicyanoisophorone core. Comprehensive analysis revealed DIP-Br as the optimal probe, demonstrating exceptional thiol sensitivity, high selectivity, and rapid detection capability under physiological pH conditions. We then applied DIP-Br in cellular oxidative stress models and AALI mouse models, which revealed significant fluctuations in thiol levels. This finding underscores the probe's ability to monitor dynamic redox processes in vivo, providing valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms of AALI. Furthermore, DIP-Br demonstrates significant potential as a diagnostic and management tool for oxidative stress-related diseases, thereby advancing redox biology research and supporting the development of targeted therapeutic strategies.