Highlighted Ca²⁺ imaging with a genetically encoded 'caged' indicator.

ABSTRACT: Genetically encoded fluorescent indicators for bioimaging are powerful tools for visualizing biological phenomena in specified cell types or cellular compartments. However, available gene promoters or localization sequences are not applicable for visualizing all expression events. Furthermore, a visualization technique focusing on single cells or cellular compartments is required for characterizing specific cellular properties including individuality of cells in the cell population. To address these limitations, we developed a genetically encoded caged Ca(2+) indicator for which expression timing and location could be controlled. This indicator, PA-TNXL, comprises a Ca(2+)-binding protein and troponin between a photoactivatable FRET donor (PA-GFP) and a FRET quencher (dim variant of YFP).

SUBMITTER: Matsuda T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3593221 | biostudies-literature | 2013

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature