Genetically encoded bioluminescent glucose indicator for biological research.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
• Cellular Physiology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Glucose is a critical cellular energy source involved in numerous biological processes.
• Accurate measurement of intracellular glucose levels is vital for understanding its diverse roles.
• Existing methods may have limitations in sensitivity or require specific excitation light sources.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel bioluminescent indicator for measuring cellular glucose levels.
• To demonstrate the utility of this indicator in various biological contexts.
• To provide a tool for enhanced understanding of glucose metabolism and function.

Main Methods:

• Development of LOTUS-Glc, a bioluminescent glucose indicator.
• Bioluminescence imaging, which does not require external excitation light.
• Application in HEK293T cells for drug effect evaluation and optogenetic tool integration.
• Measurement in plant-derived protoplasts to assess light-dependent glucose fluctuations.

Main Results:

• Successful development and validation of the LOTUS-Glc bioluminescent glucose indicator.
• Demonstration of LOTUS-Glc's capability in drug efficacy assessment in cell cultures.
• Successful concurrent application with optogenetic tools in HEK293T cells.
• Measurement of dynamic, light-dependent glucose changes in plant protoplasts.

Conclusions:

• LOTUS-Glc offers a sensitive and versatile method for monitoring cellular glucose.
• Its bioluminescent nature simplifies imaging and expands application possibilities.
• LOTUS-Glc is a valuable new tool for investigating glucose's roles in living systems.