New “turn-on” chemosensor for fluorescence detection of silver (I) based on tetracyanopyridine (TCPy)

The novel, selective and pH-resistant AIE type chemosensor, based on pyridine, containing a tetracyanobutadiene moiety (4-CN-TCPy) for turn on detection of Ag+, as well as for turn-off detection of I− and mercaptocarboxylic acids was developed. On the example of both tumor and non-tumor cells, it was shown that developed sensor can be used for fluorescent imaging of tissues. [Display omitted] •Highly efficient turn-on AIE chemosensors for detecting of Ag+.•Turn-off chemosensor for detecting of mercaptocarboxylic acids.•Fluorescence imaging of tumor and non-tumor cells.