Abstract: The invention is directed to dual-analyte fluorescent chemosensors for the direct detection and visualization (imaging) of neurotransmitters released upon exocytosis. The inventive sensor exploits the high concentration of neurotransmitters (e.g., glutamate, norepinephrine, and dopamine) and capitalizes upon the pH gradient between the vesicle and synaptic cleft.

Abstract: Latent fluorescent compounds, comprising a fluorescent molecule with one or more blocking groups attached and optionally one or more urea-containing groups are provided. The urea-containing group can be used to further attach one or more molecules of interest, such as proteins, peptides or nucleic acids. The blocking group(s) is released from the latent fluorescent compound by reaction with a trigger, forming the fluorescent molecule which can be detected. Also provided herein are methods of using latent fluorescent compounds to detect triggers.

Abstract: Latent fluorescent compounds, comprising a fluorescent molecule with one or more blocking groups attached and optionally one or more urea-containing groups are provided. The urea-containing group can be used to further attach one or more molecules of interest, such as proteins, peptides or nucleic acids. The blocking group(s) is released from the latent fluorescent compound by reaction with a trigger, forming the fluorescent molecule which can be detected. Also provided herein are methods of using latent fluorescent compounds to detect triggers.

Abstract: Latent fluorescent compounds, comprising a fluorescent molecule with one or more blocking groups attached and optionally one or more urea-containing groups are provided. The urea-containing group can be used to further attach one or more molecules of interest, such as proteins, peptides or nucleic acids. The blocking group(s) is released from the latent fluorescent compound by reaction with a trigger, forming the fluorescent molecule which can be detected. Also provided herein are methods of using latent fluorescent compounds to detect triggers.

Abstract: Chemical sensor compositions and methods for quantifying analytes are described. The chemical sensors include analyte-binding moieties and reporter moieties covalently attached to a framework including two trityl groups connected by a linear spacer such as ethyne or butadiyne. The sensors chelate an analyte across the acetylene axis of the molecule to stabilize the molecule in an eclipsed rotamer conformation. This conformation causes the sensors to emit a measurable signal.