Deep-Red and Near-Infrared Xanthene Dyes for Rapid Live Cell Imaging

In
this work, two xanthene dyes (H-hNR and TF-hNR) have been synthesized by a convenient and efficient method. These
two dyes exhibited deep-red and near-infrared emissions, high fluorescence
quantum yields, and good photostability. Their structure–optical
properties were investigated by X-ray crystal structure analysis and
density functional theory calculations. Live cell imaging data revealed
that H-hNR and TF-hNR could rapidly stain
both A549 and HeLa cells with low concentrations. The excellent photophysical
and imaging properties render them as promising candidates for use
in live cell imaging.