A BODIPY-based fluorescent chemodosimeter for Cu(ii) driven by an oxidative dehydrogenation mechanismElectronic supplementary information (ESI) available: General method, synthesis, Fig. S1–S23. See DOI: 10.1039/c0cc04069j.

A boradiazaindacene (BODIPY) derivative containing a simple NO bidentate ligand shows a Cu2+-selective fluorescence in aqueous media. This is promoted viaa coordination of Cu2+followed by oxidative dehydrogenation of an amine moiety, leading to a formation of a fluorescent Cu+–Schiff base complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]