Recent advances in fluorescent probes for the detection of hydrogen sulfide

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) has been recognized as one of the three important gasotransmitters along with nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO). H₂S plays regulatory roles in the cardiovascular system (CV), central nervous system (CNS), respiratory system, gastrointestinal system, and endocrine system. The study to understand its molecular mechanism is still ongoing. Current methods for the detection of H₂S include chromatographic methods, electrochemical methods, and colorimetric/fluorometric methods. Fluorescent sensors and probes are especially important in modern analysis due to their high sensitivity, which can provide nanomolar detection; their compatibility with high-throughput screening (HTS), which allows for rapid assessment; and their applicability in live cell bioimaging, which allows real-time detection/observation. This review focuses on strategies used in designing fluorescent sensors and probes for H₂S and their applications.