05 Jun New chemistry enables sharper microscopy
To visualize biomolecules under a microscope, researchers typically use fluorescent dyes that make them glow. A research team at the University of Göttingen has now reported a new method in which the dyes become fluorescent only after binding to the target molecule.
Conventional fluorescent dyes are distributed throughout the sample and emit light even when they are not attached to the target molecule, which can complicate imaging. In contrast, the newly developed dye fluoresces only when labeling has been successful. According to the researchers, this makes experiments involving biomolecules easier to interpret and analyze.
Du Dongchen, first author of the published study, explains: “Our work takes a practical approach: instead of attaching a pre-made fluorophore, we build the fluorescent label directly where it is needed. To me, this makes the chemistry both elegant and useful.”
The researchers also emphasize that the chemical modification takes place under mild conditions, which is important for sensitive biomolecules.
In their study, the team demonstrated that the method works with a wide range of biomolecular building blocks and structures, including sugars, lipids, amino acids and proteins. In collaboration with colleagues from the University Medical Center Göttingen, they also demonstrated its potential for microscopy by visualizing cellular structures.
“The fluorescence properties of the dyes can also be chemically modified,” adds Professor Nadja Simeth-Crespi of the University of Göttingen. “This may help tailor the system for future imaging applications.”
Original Publication
[Du, D. et al.: In Situ Construction of Imidazopyridinium Fluorescent Labels for Bioconjugation. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, https://doi.org/10.1002/anie.6231674]
Source: www.uni-goettingen.de
Image: Du Dongchen / University of Göttingen