A highly selective fluorescent probe for hydrogen sulfide detection in food, water, and living cells

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S)–an endogenously produced vapor–is essential for various physiological and neurological functions. However, abnormal H₂S levels can negatively impact both the environment and food quality. Herein, a novel fluorescent probe, 2-(2-benzothiazol-2-ylvinyl)-5-diethylaminophenyl-2,4-dinitrobenzenesulfonate (BDD), has been designed and synthesized for the detection of H₂S. BDD exhibits high selectivity, rapid response to H₂S within 6 minutes, and a low limit of detection (LOD = 0.87 μM), with stable emission at pH range between 6 and 12. Moreover, BDD effectively recovers H₂S in water samples with recovery rates ranging from 98.8 % to 102.1 % and monitors both internal and external H₂S in HeLa cells. Additionally, BDD-loaded test strips are promising as a tool for measuring the freshness of raw meat on-site. These findings establish the foundation for significant advancements in detecting H₂S in various environments, food sources, and biological systems.