A pyrene-derived fluorescence probe based on π-π stacking and excimer formation for DNA detection and intracellular...

Area of Science:

• Chemical Biology
• Molecular Imaging
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Accurate DNA detection is crucial for biological research and diagnostics.
• Developing selective and sensitive fluorescent probes is essential for real-time biological monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and synthesize a novel fluorescent probe (L) for DNA detection.
• To investigate the probe's mechanism of action and its application in cellular bioimaging.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of fluorescent probe L by linking a pyrene fluorophore to a naphthalimide-imidazole unit.
• Characterization of probe L's fluorescence response to DNA using π-π stacking and excimer formation.
• Evaluation of probe L's performance in cellular environments, including Ca2+ induced release.

Main Results:

• Probe L exhibits a
• turn-off
• fluorescence response upon binding to DNA with high selectivity.
• Achieved a low detection limit of 4.41 nM under physiological pH.
• Demonstrated successful indirect visualization of nuclear DNA in living cells via enhanced cytoplasmic signals.

Conclusions:

• Probe L is a sensitive and selective fluorescent probe for DNA detection.
• The Ca2+ mediated release mechanism allows for effective bioimaging of nuclear DNA in living cells.
• Probe L holds significant potential for applications in molecular imaging and diagnostics.