A palette of fluorescent proteins optimized for diverse cellular environments

Lindsey M. Costantini, Mikhail Baloban, Michele L. Markwardt, Megan A. Rizzo, Feng Guo, Vladislav V. Verkhusha and Erik L. Snapp ()
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Lindsey M. Costantini: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Mikhail Baloban: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Michele L. Markwardt: University of Maryland School of Medicine
Megan A. Rizzo: University of Maryland School of Medicine
Feng Guo: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Vladislav V. Verkhusha: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Erik L. Snapp: Albert Einstein College of Medicine

Nature Communications, 2015, vol. 6, issue 1, 1-13

Abstract: Abstract To perform quantitative live cell imaging, investigators require fluorescent reporters that accurately report protein localization and levels, while minimally perturbing the cell. Yet, within the biochemically distinct environments of cellular organelles, popular fluorescent proteins (FPs), including EGFP, can be unreliable for quantitative imaging, resulting in the underestimation of protein levels and incorrect localization. Specifically, within the secretory pathway, significant populations of FPs misfold and fail to fluoresce due to non-native disulphide bond formation. Furthermore, transmembrane FP-fusion constructs can disrupt organelle architecture due to oligomerizing tendencies of numerous common FPs. Here, we describe a powerful set of bright and inert FPs optimized for use in multiple cellular compartments, especially oxidizing environments and biological membranes. Also, we provide new insights into the use of red FPs in the secretory pathway. Our monomeric ‘oxFPs’ finally resolve long-standing, underappreciated and important problems of cell biology and should be useful for a number of applications.

Date: 2015
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DOI: 10.1038/ncomms8670

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