A dual-functional molecular strategy for in situ suppressing and visualizing of neuraminidase in aqueous solution using iridium(iii) complexes.

We have designed for the first time a dual-functional luminescent probe and inhibitor of neuraminidase (NA), a key influenza target. The lead iridium(iii) complex exhibited enhanced inhibition against NA compared to the FDA-approved antiviral drug, oseltamivir, and could detect NA even in the presence of an autofluorescent background.