Characterizing Riboglow Probes In Vitro as the Basis for Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging In Live Mammalian Cells and...

Nearly 80% of the human genome is transcribed into RNA, while less than 2% encode for proteins, indicating that the majority of mammalian transcripts are noncoding and participate in diverse regulatory processes. Therefore, sensing and visualizing RNA molecules in live mammalian cell systems quantitatively are critical to understanding RNA dynamics and interactions, yet remains technically challenging, especially in complex cellular environments. Riboglow is a genetically encoded RNA biosensor in which a short RNA aptamer binds a small-molecule probe, producing a quantifiable fluorescence lifetime turn-on detectable by fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM). Here, we present a detailed workflow for Riboglow-FLIM, including sample preparation, image acquisition, and quantitative analysis of FLIM datasets. The goal of this protocol is to enable quantitative fluorescence lifetime-based RNA detection using Riboglow in controlled and live-cell environments. The protocol is demonstrated in vitro, where RNA dependent lifetime changes are measured, and in live mammalian cells, where FLIM acquisition, region of interest selection, and subcellular analysis are established. Successful implementation requires careful control of experimental and acquisition parameters. Key considerations for reproducible implementation are highlighted. Together, this protocol serves as a practical reference for implementing Riboglow-FLIM and quantitatively assessing RNA visualization in live cells.