Recent Advances in Fluorescent Probes for Imaging Enzyme Activity in NETosis
Enebie Ramos Cáceres1,2, Marijn J Hollander2, Kimberly M Bonger1
1Chemical Biology & Immunology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands.
Chembiochem : a European Journal of Chemical Biology
|July 30, 2026
Summary
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), web-like DNA structures released by neutrophils during NETosis, are implicated in diseases. Fluorescent probes offer precise imaging tools to study NETosis dynamics and advance neutrophil biology research.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are DNA structures released by neutrophils via NETosis.
- Initially known for pathogen neutralization, NETs are now linked to inflammatory diseases, autoimmunity, cancer, and neurodegeneration.
- Studying NETosis is challenging due to neutrophil complexity and rapid dynamics, necessitating high-precision imaging tools.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in fluorescent probes for imaging NETosis.
- To discuss the design principles, biological applications, and limitations of these probes.
- To highlight future strategies for developing next-generation tools for neutrophil biology research.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of fluorescent probes for NETosis imaging.
- Analysis of probe design principles, sensitivity, and selectivity.
- Evaluation of biological applications in studying NETosis dynamics.
Main Results:
- Fluorescent probes provide essential spatial and temporal precision for studying NETosis.
- These tools have enhanced understanding of enzyme activation dynamics central to NETosis.
- Progress has been made in developing probes with improved sensitivity and selectivity.
Conclusions:
- Fluorescent probes are invaluable for investigating NETosis and neutrophil biology.
- Continued development of advanced probes is crucial for understanding neutrophil roles in health and disease.
- Next-generation tools will further elucidate the complex mechanisms of NETosis.
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