Lighting up RNA-specific multi-photon and super-resolution imaging using a novel zinc complex

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
• Chemical Biology
• Advanced Imaging Techniques

Background:

• Ribonucleic acid (RNA) probes are essential for studying RNA dynamics in cellular processes.
• Current limitations in RNA probe availability stem from inadequate imaging systems and fluorescence performance.
• There is a need for advanced probes for selective, real-time RNA detection and imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel probe for selective detection and real-time monitoring of RNA.
• To investigate the potential of a terpyridine Zn(II) complex (Zn-T) as an RNA imaging agent.
• To enhance the spatial resolution and brightness of nuclear RNA imaging.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a terpyridine Zn(II) complex (Zn-T) with D-π-A configuration and aggregation-induced fluorescence emission (AIE).
• Utilized hydrophobic interactions for selective RNA detection.
• Employed AIE-assisted two-photon fluorescence and stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy for imaging.

Main Results:

• The synthesized Zn-T complex exhibits bright AIE, a large Stokes shift, and three-photon absorption (3PA) activity.
• Zn-T demonstrated specific response through hydrophobic interactions with RNA.
• Combined AIE-fluorescence and STED microscopy provided high-resolution, bright imaging of nuclear RNA.

Conclusions:

• The developed Zn-T complex serves as a highly effective probe for selective RNA detection and real-time monitoring.
• The probe facilitates advanced imaging of nuclear RNA with superior spatial resolution and brightness.
• This imaging platform holds significant potential for studying RNA-related physiological and pathological processes.