Single Fluorescent Probe Displays a Distinct Response to Zn²⁺ and Cd²⁺

Single probe, multiple targets: The design and synthesis of a new probe is described that can readily discriminate Zn2+ and Cd2+ with different fluorescence signals (see figure). The studies of Job's plot, mass spectroscopy, DFT calculations, and 1H NMR spectroscopy reveal that the new probe has possible distinct binding modes to Zn2+ and Cd2+. This work may open up new opportunities for the development of single fluorescent probes that can sense multiple targets of interest. Detailed facts of importance to specialist readers are published as ”Supporting Information”. Such documents are peer-reviewed, but not copy-edited or typeset. They are made available as submitted by the authors. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.