Aggregation-induced emission of DNA fluorescence as a novel pan-marker of cell death, senescence and sepsis <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i>.

ABSTRACT: Background and Aim: Effective monitoring of cell death and senescence is critical across biology and medicine, yet a universal in situ fluorescent marker has remained elusive. This study aimed to identify and characterize a novel, endogenous optical signal arising from cellular stress and to evaluate its potential as a universal, label-free biomarker for visualizing cellular fate in diverse physiological and pathological contexts. Material and Methods: Autofluorescence was characterized in human cell lines, C. elegans, a mouse sepsis model, and human plasma samples using two-photon and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy. The molecular origin of the signal was investigated through lysosome isolation, high-throughput DNA sequencing, gel electrophoresis, and

SUBMITTER: Hu Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12675146 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature