Anion binding ability and cytotoxicity of a selective colorimetric chemosensor for H2S based on Zn(Ⅱ) complex

A zinc(II) complex-based selective colorimetric chemosensor for H2S was synthesized. The ligand and complex crystals were obtained, and the molecular structures were confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis in addition to electrospray ionization high resolution mass spectrometer, as well as elemental analysis. The photo-physical and recognition properties toward HS− were examined. The complex indicated the presence of HS− with an obvious color change from yellow to red, based on zinc ion displacement mechanism. However no obvious changes were observed in the presence of other anions (AcO−, H2PO4−, F−, Cl−, Br−, I− and SO32−). In addition, the chemosensor was applied to assess HeLa cell cytotoxicity. Our inorganic-reaction based sensor for HS– is simple, easily prepared and efficient. The complex has many potential chemical and analytical applications for the sensing of H2S. [Display omitted] •A zinc(II) complex and its crystal were synthesized and obtained.•High selective and obvious color change for H2S among anions tested.•Low cytotoxicity to Hela cell at a concentration of 200 g mL−1.•The complex has the potential to detect H2S level in cells. A zinc(II) complex–based selective colorimetric chemosensor for H2S was synthesized. The ligand and complex crystals were obtained, and the molecular structures were confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis in addition to electrospray ionization high resolution mass spectrometer, as well as elemental analysis. The photo-physical and recognition properties toward HS– were examined. The complex indicated the presence of HS– with an obvious color change from yellow to red, based on zinc ion displacement mechanism. However no obvious changes were observed in the presence of other anions (AcO−, H2PO4−, F−, Cl−, Br−, I− and SO32−). In addition, the chemosensor was applied to assess HeLa cell cytotoxicity. Our inorganic-reaction based sensor for HS– is simple, easily prepared and efficient. The complex has many potential chemical and analytical applications for the sensing of H2S.