In vivo light-driven DNA binding and cellular uptake of nucleic acid stains

Chemical derivatization of nucleic stains such as ethidium bromide or DAPI with tailored, photoresponsive caging groups, allows for "on demand" spatiotemporal control of their in vivo nucleic acid binding, as well as for improving their cellular uptake. This effect was particularly noteworthy for a nitro-veratryloxycarbonyl-caged derivative of ethidium bromide that, in contrast with the parent stain, is effectively internalized into living cells. The activation strategy works in light-accessible, therapeutically relevant settings, such as human retinas, and can even be applied for the release of active compounds in the eyes of living mice.