Intramolecular Proton Transfer in the Excited State (ESIPT) Process: Applications in Fluorescent Probes

Abstract

Currently the opportune diagnosis of cancer has shown a great importance, mainly by decreasing the mortality rate. Among the techniques employed to achieve the diagnosis, spectroscopy has been highlighted for presenting safe and highly accurate diagnoses. The Fluorescence Spectroscopy has become very important in cancer diagnosis, being employed in breast, oral cavity and esophagus cancer testing. The technique employs fluorophore which in many cases have groups capable of carrying out the intramolecular proton transfer in the excited state (ESIPT). These compounds may be used for various molecular targets such as cations, anions and proteins detection, besides the diagnosis of diseases. Spectroscopic probes have an important role in the development of more accurate diagnosing diseases methods, which may influence the treatment and avoid the risks of further surgery and patient death.