We have designed and synthesized a series of molecular probes integrating both an amide and a pyrrole functionality for anion-recognition and -sensing. The interactions between these probe molecules and various anions have been investigated to elucidate the influence of electronic effects on the anion-recognition site. Changes in the UV/Vis and fluorescence spectra in the presence of anions reveal that probes 1-5 typically display a strong response to cyanide. Moreover, the appearance of the ratiometric phenomenon upon interaction with anions further enhances spectral differentiation for anion-sensing. The mechanism for the reaction between the probe molecules and the anions has been further explored by 1 H NMR titration experiments. Anions strongly interacting with probes and producing large changes in the UV/ Vis and fluorescence spectra during the titration usually re-
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