Mitochondrion-Targeting, Environment-Sensitive Red Fluorescent Probe for Highly Sensitive Detection and Imaging of...

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology
• Chemical Biology

Background:

• Mitochondrial vicinal dithiol-containing proteins (VDPs) regulate cellular redox homeostasis.
• Existing probes lack specificity for mitochondrial VDPs, showing limited sensitivity and slow response rates.
• Redox-dependent diseases require accurate diagnostic markers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel fluorescent probe for selective mitochondrial VDP detection.
• To overcome limitations of current probes in sensitivity, response rate, and targeting.
• To establish a new tool for in situ monitoring of mitochondrial VDPs.

Main Methods:

• Engineered a benzoxadiazole fluorophore with a cyclic dithiaarsane ligand.
• Designed the probe for selective mitochondrial localization and environment responsiveness.
• Evaluated probe performance using reduced bovine serum albumin (rBSA) and fluorescence spectroscopy.

Main Results:

• The probe exhibits near-zero fluorescence in aqueous media, with intense "turn-on" fluorescence upon VDP binding.
• Achieved rapid response time (<30 s) and high sensitivity for rBSA detection (2 nM limit).
• Demonstrated specific mitochondrial localization and deep red emission.

Conclusions:

• This novel probe is the first to offer deep red emission, instantaneous response, high turn-on ratio, and specific mitochondrial localization for VDP detection.
• The probe provides a sensitive and rapid tool for in situ monitoring of mitochondrial VDPs.
• Potential applications in diagnostics for redox-dependent diseases.