Functional fluorescent probes for efficient identification and detection of mercury ions based on fluorescence emission, quenching, and resonance energy transfer processes

The issue of water pollution caused by heavy metal ions has been receiving increasing attention, particularly in the case of Hg²⁺ ions, which can significantly amplify their biological toxicity through bioaccumulation and stepwise magnification in the food chain. This review systematically summarizes and discusses common construction strategies for functional materials along with their applications in mercury ion recognition and detection. In addition to exploring the construction strategies, this review also delves into the diverse applications of these materials in mercury ion recognition and detection. Whether it's in environmental monitoring, where rapid and accurate detection of Hg²⁺ is critical for preventing contamination, or in biomedical research, where sensitive detection methods are essential for understanding the role of mercury in biological systems, these materials have demonstrated their versatility and effectiveness.