From Fluorescent Probes to the Theranostics Platform

Comprehensive Summary Since the advent of fluorescent probes, they have been widely used in the field of life sciences. Fluorescent probes can not only light up the cells, tissues and organs, but also be used to explore the bio-distribution of specific types of disease markers. Therefore, the development of new fluorescent probes capable of recognition of bio-markers is extremely important for the diagnosis of the related diseases. Herein, we focus on our recent works experienced the evolution from the beginning of simply fluorescent probes to the construction of theranostics platform. We have developed a series of new fluorescent probes for the detecting and imaging of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and specific enzymes in vitro and in living cells. With the shift of the fluorescence signal from visible to near-infrared region, we expanded the application of the fluorescent probes from in vitro to in vivo. Very recently, we further constructed theranostics platforms to combine the diagnosis immediately with the corresponding treatment. What is the most favorite and original chemistry developed in your research group? Development of new responsive fluorescent molecules and using them as tools to study physiological and pathological processes of specific biomolecules. How do you get into this specific field? My original major is inorganic chemistry. Influenced by Prof. Chunhui Huang (academician), I was interested in fluorescent materials. The flowery color of fluorescent material itself and its important applications in the field of biological probes and imaging are also touched me deeply. What are your hobbies? Reading and travelling. How do you supervise your students? For the new students, I will ask them to understand the relevant direction of the research group first. According to students' backgrounds, I will propose concerned topics and encourage them to obtain relevant research plans and methods through literature research and group discussion. How do you keep balance between research and family? I spend as much spare time as possible with my family. Who influences you mostly in your life? Prof. Chunhui Huang and Prof. Song Gao, who are my supervisors of Master and PhD course, respectively.