Vitamin B6 cofactor based fluorescent probe for sensing an anion (F−) and cation (Co2+) independently in a pure aqueous medium

Abstract

A new highly selective and sensitive bifunctional fluorescent probe for Co²⁺ and F⁻ ions has been derived from a vitamin B₆ cofactor and the response mechanism has been analyzed using DFT calculations. The probe features a facile synthetic protocol, good water solubility, high selectivity and sensitivity, a fluorescence turn-on response to F⁻, and a ratiometric response towards Co²⁺ in an aqueous medium.