As opposed to traditional instrumental techniques, small-molecule probes are well-suited for quick detection of Hg 2+ in the field and for in vivo studies in biological systems. 1,3–7 However, most small-molecule probes require the use of organic 3 or mixed aqueous–organic solutions, 4 features that may be problematic for real-world samples. In addition, since the emission of many fluorophores is easily quenched by heavy-metal ions, probes for Hg 2+ normally ...
