Specific cell surface protein imaging by extended self-assembling fluorescent turn-on nanoprobes

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Cell membrane protein visualization is crucial for biological research and cancer therapy.
• Previous supramolecular strategies utilized BODIPY fluorophores for protein detection in vitro.
• A recognition-driven disassembly mechanism triggers a turn-on fluorescent signal.

Purpose of the Study:

• To expand the utility of self-assembling fluorescent nanoprobes for live cell imaging.
• To enable visualization of cancer-specific membrane proteins using diverse fluorophores.
• To develop a cell-based assay for carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.

Main Methods:

• Incorporation of hydrophobic modules to enable the use of hydrophilic fluorophores (fluorescein, rhodamine).
• Design of supramolecular nanoprobes for recognition-driven disassembly and turn-on fluorescence.
• Application of nanoprobes for selective imaging of folate receptor and carbonic anhydrase on live cancer cells.

Main Results:

• Successfully extended the range of applicable fluorophores for nanoprobe construction.
• Achieved selective fluorescent visualization of cancer-specific membrane proteins (folate receptor, carbonic anhydrase) on live cells.
• Demonstrated a functional cell-based assay platform for carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.

Conclusions:

• The developed self-assembling turn-on nanoprobes are effective for live cell imaging of cancer biomarkers.
• The expanded fluorophore compatibility enhances the versatility of the nanoprobe strategy.
• This approach holds significant potential for basic research and the development of targeted cancer therapeutics and diagnostics.