Arginine-Rich Gold Silver-Nanoprobe for Rapid Virus Imaging and Real-Time Tracking in Infected Live-Cells

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Virology

Background:

• Effective virus imaging in live cells is crucial for diagnostics and research.
• Current nucleic acid probes have limitations in cellular uptake and stability, hindering sensitive virus detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel histidine- and arginine-modified gold-silver nanoclusters (CHR-h) for enhanced virus imaging and real-time tracking in infected live cells.
• To overcome the limitations of conventional probes for sensitive and efficient viral diagnostics.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of histidine- and arginine-modified AuAg nanoclusters (CHR).
• Conjugation of DNA hairpin to CHR (CHR-h) for enhanced stability and targeting.
• Utilizing CHR-h for rapid cellular uptake, viral RNA capture, and fluorescence imaging in infected cells.
• Employing total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy for real-time tracking of single viral particles and their components.

Main Results:

• CHR-h demonstrated enhanced fluorescence intensity and stability across a physiological pH range.
• Rapid cellular uptake and viral RNA capture by CHR-h were achieved within 1 hour.
• High-resolution, real-time tracking of single SARS-CoV-2 particles, including visualization of viral envelope and RNA separation, was accomplished.
• Successful labeling of SARS-CoV-2 genes with high infectivity and multitarget recognition.

Conclusions:

• CHR-h provides an efficient and sensitive platform for live-cell virus imaging and diagnostics.
• The developed nanoclusters offer valuable insights into SARS-CoV-2 infection mechanisms.
• This technology holds significant potential for advancing virology research and clinical applications.