An indole-based fluorescent chemosensor targeting the autophagosome

Autophagy is a process for the degradation and recycling of intracellular components and dysfunctional organelles. We developed an indole-embedded fluorescent naphthalimide for the selective imaging of autophagosomes in live cells. It was shown as intense puncta in the fluorescence confocal images and co-localizes with an autophagosome marker, LC3-RFP. In addition, it was applied to cellular autophagic models based on ER stress and starvation to verify its capability.

Automated summary

Autophagy is a process for the degradation and recycling of intracellular components and dysfunctional organelles. In this study, the researchers developed a fluorescent probe embedded with indole for the selective imaging of autophagosomes in live cells. The probe showed specific localization and co-localization with a known autophagosome marker, proving its capability. Furthermore, the probe was successfully applied to cellular autophagic models to validate its functionality.