Engineering an effective Mn-binding MRI reporter protein by subcellular targeting.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Manganese (Mn) is an effective contrast agent and biologically active metal, which has been widely used for Mn-enhanced MRI (MEMRI). The purpose of this study was to develop and test a Mn binding protein for use as a genetic reporter for MEMRI.

Methods

The bacterial Mn-binding protein, MntR was identified as a candidate reporter protein. MntR was engineered for expression in mammalian cells, and targeted to different subcellular organelles, including the Golgi Apparatus where cellular Mn is enriched. Transfected HEK293 cells and B16 melanoma cells were tested in vitro and in vivo, using immunocytochemistry, MR imaging and relaxometry.

Results

Subcellular targeting of MntR to the cytosol, endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus was verified with immunocytoche

SUBMITTER: Bartelle BB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4470876 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature