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Open Source High Content Analysis Utilizing Automated Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy
Published on: January 18, 2017
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Multi-photon fluorescence-lifetime imaging of a genetically-encoded heme sensor
Mae E James1, Christiane Reick2, Maryam Mohammad Qaed1
1School of Chemistry, and Leicester Institute for Structural & Chemical Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK.
Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry
|October 4, 2025
Summary
Genetically-encoded heme sensors can now be monitored using multi-photon fluorescence-lifetime imaging microscopy (MP-FLIM). This advanced technique offers deeper tissue penetration and reduced phototoxicity for cellular heme studies.
Area of Science:
- Cellular Biology
- Biophysics
- Microscopy
Background:
- Genetically-encoded fluorescence sensors are vital for studying heme dynamics in cells.
- Existing sensors typically measure exchangeable heme through fluorescence intensity changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the utility of multi-photon fluorescence-lifetime imaging microscopy (MP-FLIM) for monitoring heme sensors.
- To explore the potential of MP-FLIM for advanced cellular heme analysis.
Main Methods:
- Utilized genetically-encoded heme sensors in transfected HEK293 cells.
- Employed multi-photon fluorescence-lifetime imaging microscopy (MP-FLIM) for data acquisition.
Main Results:
- Successfully monitored the response of heme sensors using MP-FLIM.
- MP-FLIM provides a viable method for quantifying heme sensor activity.
Conclusions:
- MP-FLIM is a powerful tool for advancing heme sensor applications.
- This approach may enable future deep-tissue heme quantification with reduced phototoxicity.
