Smart 0D nanomaterials assembled by green luminescent terbium hybrids for the detection of tryptophan

A new class of terbium hybrids within the silica framework has been synthesized using modified silylated derivatives of aromatic acids. These organic–inorganic materials have very homogenous spherical shapes (diameter around 60 nm) and exhibit characteristic green emissions in DMSO/H 2 O (1:1). Significantly, they present highly selective and rapid (1–2 s) emission quenching effects with respect to tryptophan compared to other essential amino acids for human. In addition, enhanced thermal stabilities can be achieved in these hybrid materials.