Genetically encoded sensors to elucidate spatial distribution of cellular zinc.

ABSTRACT: Transition metals are essential enzyme cofactors that are required for a wide range of cellular processes. Paradoxically, whereas metal ions are essential for numerous cellular processes, they are also toxic. Therefore cells must tightly regulate metal accumulation, transport, distribution, and export. Improved tools to interrogate metal ion availability and spatial distribution within living cells would greatly advance our understanding of cellular metal homeostasis. In this work, we present genetically encoded sensors for Zn2+ based on the principle of fluorescence resonance energy transfer. We also develop methodology to calibrate the probes within the cellular environment. To identify both sources of and sinks for Zn2+, these sensors are genetically targeted to specific locations withi

SUBMITTER: Dittmer PJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2713558 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature