High-Photostability Perylene-Derived Probe Enables Accurate Dual-Modality Imaging of Mitochondrial Membrane Potential

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology
• Molecular Imaging

Background:

• Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) is crucial for cellular health and function.
• Accurate MMP monitoring relies on photostable fluorescent probes to prevent quantification errors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, photostable mitochondrial-targeted probe for enhanced MMP imaging.
• To establish a FRET-based system for dual-modality MMP sensing.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized a mitochondrial-targeted probe, PDI-TPP, by conjugating perylene diimide (PDI) with triphenylphosphonium (TPP).
• Paired PDI-TPP with SiR-BA as a FRET donor-acceptor system for dual-modality imaging (intensity ratio and lifetime).
• Evaluated probe photostability and performance in visualizing MMP dynamics.

Main Results:

• PDI-TPP demonstrated significantly enhanced photostability compared to previous probes, minimizing photobleaching.
• The PDI-TPP/SiR-BA system enabled reliable dual-modality imaging of MMP.
• Dynamic changes in MMP could be visualized with improved accuracy.

Conclusions:

• PDI-TPP represents a significant advancement in photostable probes for mitochondrial imaging.
• This probe offers a more accurate tool for studying mitochondrial function and cellular health.
• The FRET-based dual-modality approach enhances the reliability of MMP measurements.