Fluorescence probe for monosaccharide based on anionic polyelectrolyte and cationic pyridine quaternary ammonium salt

A facile fluorescence switch for monosaccharides is comprised of anionic polyelectrolyte and cationic trispyridine quaternary ammonium salt. In the switch ensemble, the polyelectrolyte was used as a fluorescent signal unit, and the pyridine boronic acid acted as receptor and quencher. The probe for monosaccharides detection shows a reversible “on-off” fluorescence response based on electrostatic interaction mechanism. This probe can be applied to detect diabetes only using a little blood sample. Moreover, the design idea and detection way may provide a new mode for diabetes diagnosis with high sensitivity.