Reaction-free mitochondrial membrane potential independent luminogens with aggregation-induced emission characteristics for live neuron imaging

We developed novel photostable mitochondria targeting probes based on aggregation-induced emission (AIE) luminogens with a cyanostilbene core. The introduction of an alkyl chain onto the pyridinium moiety enhanced their interaction with the mitochondrial membrane. This design effectively prevents probe leakage following mitochondrial membrane depolarization while significantly reducing cytotoxicity.