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A Protein-Based Biosensor for Detecting Calcium by Magnetic Resonance Imaging
ACS Sensors
|August 23, 2021
Summary
Researchers developed a novel MRI sensor for calcium using the calprotectin protein. This genetically encodable tool enables noninvasive brain imaging of neural activity by detecting calcium signals with MRI.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Imaging
- Molecular Biology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enables noninvasive monitoring of neural activity.
- Current MRI calcium probes lack genetic encoding, limiting cellular specificity.
- Developing genetically encodable MRI sensors is crucial for advanced biological research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create a novel, genetically encodable MRI sensor for calcium detection.
- To utilize the calcium-binding protein calprotectin for MRI signal modulation.
- To demonstrate the sensor's efficacy in biological samples.
Main Methods:
- Engineered calprotectin to sequester manganese ions (Mn2+) upon calcium binding.
- Observed changes in T1 and T2 relaxation times in MRI signals.
- Tested the sensor in lysed hippocampal cells and intact Chinese hamster ovary cells.
Main Results:
- Calprotectin-based sensor alters MRI signals in response to biologically relevant calcium levels.
- Achieved response amplitude comparable to existing MRI calcium sensors.
- Successfully detected calcium in both cell lysates and intact cells.
Conclusions:
- Calprotectin offers a promising genetically encodable MRI sensor for calcium imaging.
- Combines cellular specificity with MRI's deep-tissue penetration.
- Paves the way for noninvasive imaging of calcium signaling in complex biological systems.
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