Methods of split reporter reconstitution for the analysis of biomolecules

Intracellular signaling inside living cells is controlled by the specific localization of biomolecules, including proteins, with timescales ranging from milliseconds to several hours. To elucidate the related spatial and temporal signal processes, development of optical probes for cellular events is a challenging task in present studies. Herein, we describe recent advances in the basic design of the optical probes, which have been inspired by luminescent creatures, and their practical application to visualize intracellular events in living cells and animals. A discussion of different probe designs reveals their benefits and shortcomings.