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Summary of our research
Our bodies express and utilize approximately 20,000 types of proteins, supporting our daily activities. However, physiological functions of many molecules remain unknown, and researchers are working daily to elucidate them. Understanding protein functions is crucial for clarifying causal relationships, which is achieved by "manipulation experiments" that investigate how cells or the body change after proteins are inactivated. Among these manipulative methods, the CALI method is known as an important technology for inactivating target molecules using light.
The CALI method involves using a "photosensitizer molecule" that generates reactive oxygen species upon exposure to light, to oxidize and inactivate specific molecules (Figure A). Among photosensitizer molecules, our previously reported photosensitizer fluorescent protein, SuperNova, has been widely used worldwide (Goto A et al. Science 2021, Gabriela TT et al. Sci. Adv. 2020, etc.). However, SuperNova has a low maturation efficiency at 37°C, leading to insufficient oxidation and inactivation of molecules, especially in mammalian cells. In this study, through gene mutation screening, we successfully developed a new variant, HyperNova, with significantly improved maturation efficiency at 37°C. HyperNova enables the inactivation of various molecules that were difficult to manipulate with conventional SuperNova.
This work was published online in the Communications Biology on Aug 6th, 2024.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-024-06583-x
Researcher information
Kiwamu Takemoto
Professor, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University
Specialized area：
Neuroscience
Current research field：
・Memory engram
・Optical manipulation technology
Hisashi Shidara
Assistant Professor, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University
Specialized area：
Neuroscience
Current research field：
・Optical manipulation technology