A light-controlled DNA nanothermometer for temperature sensing in the cellular membrane microenvironment

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Molecular Biology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Accurate cellular temperature measurement is crucial for understanding biological processes.
• Existing methods for thermal sensing in cells face limitations in resolution and real-time application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, light-controlled DNA nanothermometer for precise extracellular temperature sensing.
• To enable real-time thermal monitoring with high spatiotemporal resolution in biological systems.

Main Methods:

• Design of a DNA nanothermometer incorporating a thermal-sensitive molecular beacon (MB) with dual-labeled fluorophores (Cy5 and Cy3).
• Integration of photocleavable linkers (pc-linker) for light-activated control and a biotinylated strand for cell surface immobilization.
• Utilizing UV light irradiation for remote activation and ratiometric temperature sensing.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated successful remote activation of the DNA nanothermometer using UV light.
• Achieved highly sensitive and quantitative ratiometric temperature sensing in extracellular environments.
• Exhibited desirable sensitivity, excellent reversibility, and reliable performance for extracellular temperature measurement.

Conclusions:

• The light-controlled DNA nanothermometer provides a powerful tool for real-time extracellular thermal sensing.
• This technology enables precise monitoring of thermal dynamics in cell physiology and pathology.
• Offers a promising platform for advancing research in thermal-related biological and disease processes.