A new "turn-on" chemodosimeter for Hg2+: ICT fluorophore formation via Hg(2+)-induced carbaldehyde recovery from 1,3-dithiane.

A novel sensitive and specific Hg(2+) chemodosimeter, derived from 1',3'-dithiane-substituted 2,1,3-benzoxadiazole, displays "turn-on" fluorescent and colorimetric responses via an Hg(2+)-triggered aldehyde recovery reaction. Its potential to monitor Hg(2+) in living organisms has been demonstrated using zebrafish larvae.