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Functional fluorophores represent an emerging research field, distinguished by their diverse applications, especially in sensing and cellular imaging. After the discovery of quinine sulfate and subsequent elucidation of the fluorescence mechanism by Sir George Stokes, research in the field of fluorescence gained momentum. Over the past few decades, advancements in sophisticated instruments, including super-resolution microscopy, have further promoted cellular imaging using traditional fluorophores. These advancements include deciphering sensing mechanisms via photochemical reactions and scrutinizing the applications of fluorescent probes that specifically target organelles. This approach elucidates molecular interactions with biomolecules. Despite the abundance of literature illustrating different classes of probe development, a concise summary of newly developed fluorophores remains inadequate. In this review, we systematically summarize the chronological discovery of traditional fluorophores along with new fluorophores. We briefly discuss traditional fluorophores ranging from visible to near-infrared (NIR) in the context of cellular imaging and in vivo imaging. Furthermore, we explore ten new core fluorophores developed between 2007 and 2022, which exhibit advanced optical properties, providing new insights into bioimaging. We illustrate the utilization of new fluorophores in cellular imaging of biomolecules, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), reactive nitrogen species (RNS), and proteins and microenvironments, especially pH and viscosity. Few of the fluorescent probes provided new insights into disease progression. Furthermore, we speculate on the potential prospects and significant challenges of existing fluorophores and their potential biomedical research applications. By addressing these aspects, we intend to illuminate the compelling advancements in fluorescent probe development and their potential influence across various fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first fluorescent sensor for milk fat was developed. It exhibited a magnificent, yet selective turn-on feature towards fat molecules in a complicated milk matrix by a disaggregation-induced emission mechanism. Further construction of a handy fluorescence milk fat detector provided a convenient rapid tool to measure the fat amount quantitatively. This discovery may help enhance the milk quality control process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visualization of macrophages in live animals has been of great interest for a better understanding of inflammation. We developed a near infrared (NIR) probe CDnir7 that can selectively detect macrophages and visualize inflammation in vivo using the IVIS spectrum, Fluorescence Molecular Tomography (FMT) and Multi-Spectral Optoacoustic Tomography (MSOT). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]