A cationic AIE-gen demonstrates multiple functions including mechanoluminochromic and solvatochromic effects, fluorescence turn-on responses to DNA-binding and mitochondria-specific living cell imaging.
A novel pyrene based free thiol containing a Schiff base derivative PT1 was synthesized and reported as a fluorescence turn-on sensor for Hg2+ ions, via CHEF and excimer (PT1-PT1*) formation with live cell imaging.