Colorimetric sensor for triphosphates and their application as a viable staining agent for prokaryotes and eukaryotes

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Microbiology

Background:

• Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a crucial molecule for cellular energy.
• Selective and non-toxic detection methods for ATP in biological samples are needed.
• Existing staining agents may affect microbial viability or lack specificity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel chromogenic complex for selective ATP detection.
• To evaluate the potential of this complex as a staining agent for prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
• To assess the non-toxicity and viability of stained microbes.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis and characterization of the chromogenic complex 1 x Zn.
• Testing the complex's binding affinity towards various anions, including ATP.
• Applying the complex as a staining agent for different cell types (eukaryotes and prokaryotes).
• Microscopic observation of stained cells and assessment of microbial viability post-staining.

Main Results:

• The complex 1 x Zn exhibited high affinity and selective colorimetric binding to ATP.
• No significant color change was observed with other biologically relevant anions.
• Staining with 1 x Zn allowed visualization of both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells using light microscopy.
• The dye differentiated between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
• Stained microbes (eukaryotes and prokaryotes) maintained viability and continued growth.

Conclusions:

• The chromogenic complex 1 x Zn serves as a selective and visual indicator for ATP.
• This reagent is a promising non-toxic staining agent for diverse biological cells.
• It facilitates microscopy of prokaryotes and eukaryotes and distinguishes bacterial types.
• The dye's non-lipophilic nature and preservation of cell viability offer advantages over existing methods.