Lysosome-specific fluorescent probe for malondialdehyde/formaldehyde detection in oxidative/carbonyl stressed nerve cells and foods.

Research on neurodegenerative diseases has become a significant area of study. Oxidative/carbonyl stress are fundamental pathophysiological mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases, and their processes are strongly associated with malondialdehyde (MDA) and formaldehyde (FA). There is a complex interaction between oxidative/carbonyl stress and lysosomal dysfunction, which together are involved in the pathological processes of neurodegenerative diseases. And lysosome targeted detection can intuitively reflect the degree of lysosome damage. Therefore, understanding the complex interplay between oxidative/carbonyl stress, lysosomal dysfunction, and the formation of MDA/FA is essential for elucidating the pathological processes involved. In addition, the determination of MDA/FA is also necessary to ensure food safety. Thus, we synthesized a naphthalimide-based fluorescent probe with aminoethyl morpholine as the lysosomal targeting site and hydrazine group as the recognition site. In the recognition processes, the probe reacts with MDA/FA to form different chemical groups, enabling it to differentiate and identify MDA/FA. The probe has good sensitivity and anti-interference ability. The fluorescence imaging of MDA/FA within lysosomes of nerve cells was accomplished for the first time. Additionally, we observed an increase in MDA/FA concentrations under oxidative/carbonyl stress, providing a valuable basis for understanding their relationship in neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, the application of this probe to various food samples demonstrates its potential as a forceful tool for food safety detection. To summarize, this study provides a new scientific basis for diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases, and offers a robust means for ensuring food safety.