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The electrochemical modulation of single molecule fluorescence
Ying Yang1, Yuanqing Ma1, J Justin Gooding1
1School of Chemistry and Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia. justin.gooding@unsw.edu.au.
Faraday Discussions
|October 21, 2024
Summary
Electrochemistry can control fluorescence intensity and ON/OFF states of dyes, offering an alternative to lasers for microscopy. This study explores the electrochemical mechanisms and dye compatibility for fluorescence modulation.
Area of Science:
- Electrochemistry
- Photochemistry
- Fluorescence Microscopy
Background:
- Electrochemistry offers a novel method to modulate fluorophore emission intensity and states, distinct from high-intensity lasers.
- This electrochemical fluorescence modulation does not always involve direct dye oxidation or reduction, prompting investigation into underlying mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the electrochemical mechanisms controlling fluorescence modulation.
- To identify key variables affecting electrochemical switching of fluorophores.
- To assess the range of dyes amenable to electrochemical fluorescence modulation.
Main Methods:
- Utilized electrochemistry on indium tin oxide surfaces with organic dye-labeled cell samples.
- Employed redox-active mediators within an oxygen scavenger buffer system.
- Investigated fluorescence modulation sensitivity to applied potential and excitation laser intensity.
- Compared electrochemical fluorescence modulation across oxazine, rhodamine, and cyanine dye classes (ATTO 655, Alexa Fluor 488, Alexa Fluor 647).
Main Results:
- Demonstrated effective electrochemical fluorescence modulation of organic dyes.
- Showed modulation is sensitive to applied potential and laser intensity, suggesting coupled photochemical-electrochemical reactions.
- Observed varying degrees of modulation across different dye structures, indicating dye-specific responses.
Conclusions:
- Electrochemical fluorescence modulation is a viable technique for controlling dye emission.
- The process is influenced by applied potential, laser intensity, and dye structure.
- This method holds promise for applications in advanced fluorescence imaging and biosensing.
