Detection of breast cancer cells by a near-infrared fluorescent probe targeting mitochondrial viscosity

Monitoring abnormal viscosity in biological systems is important for basic research and clinical applications. Fluorescence imaging technology is adaptable for the visualization of tumor tissues due to its comprehensive features. However, fluorescence detection of intracellular viscosity in clinical samples remains challenging. We developed a promising near-infrared fluorescent probe, M556, for viscosity measurement. M556, which targets mitochondria, was successfully applied to monitor the mitochondrial viscosity in living cells. Furthermore, M556 was demonstrated to effectively discriminate tumors from normal tissues in a mouse tumor model and in clinical specimens from breast cancer patients, thus indicating the potential perioperative use of this probe by clinicians to assist with biopsy procedures.