Cell-permeable DNA stains are popular markers in live-cell imaging. Currently used DNA stains for live-cell imaging are either toxic, require illumination with blue light or are not compatible with super-resolution microscopy, thereby limiting their utility. Here we describe a far-red DNA stain, SiR–Hoechst, which displays minimal toxicity, is applicable in different cell types and tissues, and is compatible with super-resolution microscopy. The combination of these properties makes this probe a powerful tool for live-cell imaging.

A new strategy for accessing analyte-responsive luminescent probes is presented. The lanthanide luminescence of Eu and Tb centers is switched on by the analyte-triggered formation of a sensitizing antenna from a nonsensitizing caged precursor. As the cage can be freely varied, an array of probes for different analytes (Pd(0/2+), H(2)O(2), F(-), β-galactosidase) can be created from the same core structure. The probe design affords nanomolar to micromolar detection limits, provides the capability to detect two analytes in parallel, and can be utilized to monitor enzymatic activity in live cells.

Multiplex analyte detection in complex dynamic systems is desirable for the investigation of cellular communication networks as well as in medical diagnostics. A family of lanthanide-based responsive luminescent probes for multiplex detection is reported. The high modularity of the probe design enabled the rapid assembly of both green and red emitters for a large variety of analytes by the simple exchange of the lanthanide or an analyte-cleavable caging group, respectively. The real-time three-color detection of up to three analytes was demonstrated, thus setting the stage for the non-invasive investigation of interconnected biological processes.

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Pd-catalyzed allylic C-H trifluoroacetoxylation of substituted alkenes was performed using PhI(OCOCF(3))(2) as the oxidant and acyloxy source. Trifluoroacetoxylation of monosubstituted cyclopentenes and cyclohexenes proceeds with excellent regio- and diastereoselectivity. Studies with one of the possible (η(3)-allyl)Pd(II) intermediates suggest that the reaction proceeds via stereoselective formation of Pd(IV) intermediates and subsequent stereo- and regioselective reductive elimination of the product.