A Smart Molecule Detects Dangerous Ions in Our Food and Body

Scientists have created a unique molecule, H2L, capable of detecting harmful ions in food and cells. This molecule glows when it encounters specific ions, making it an effective detection tool.

Detecting Zinc Ions

• Medium: Water and DMSO (Dimethyl sulfoxide)
• Detection Limit: 0.18 micromolar
• Feature: Glows brighter when zinc ions are present, even in the presence of other metal ions.

Detecting Cyanide Ions

• Medium: DMSO
• Detection Limit: 0.94 micromolar
• Feature: Detects cyanide ions even when other anions are present.

Detecting Iron and Copper Ions

• Medium: Mixture of water and DMSO
• Detection Limit:
• Iron: 3.92 micromolar
• Copper: 0.17 micromolar
• Feature: Glows less brightly when iron or copper ions are present.

Practical Applications

• Food Safety: H2L can detect cyanide in everyday food samples using a simple paper strip.
• Cell Safety: Non-toxic to cells, safe up to a concentration of 100 micromolar.
• Intracellular Detection: Using fluorescence microscopy, H2L can detect zinc, iron, copper, and cyanide ions within cells.