Sulforhodamine Nanothermometer for Multiparametric Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy

Design and Preparation of Lifetime-Based Dual Fluorescent/Phosphorescent Sensor of pH and Oxygen and its Exploration in Model Physiological Solutions and Cells

In the present report, a novel dual pH-O2 sensor based on covalent conjugate of rhodamine 6G and cyclometalated iridium complex with poly(vinylpyrrolidone-block-vinyltetrazole) copolymer is reported. In model physiological solutions the sensor chromophores display independent phosphorescent and fluorescent lifetime responses onto variations in oxygen concentration and pH, respectively. Colocalization studies on Chinese hamster ovary cells demonstrate the preferential localization in endosomes and lysosomes. The fluorescent lifetime imaging microscopy-phosphorescent lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM-PLIM) experiments show that the phosphorescent O2 sensor provides unambiguous information onto hypoxia versus normoxia cell status as well as semi-quantitative data on the oxygen concentration in cells in between these two states. However, the results of FLIM measurements indicate that dynamic lifetime interval of the sensor (≈0.5 ns between pH values 5.0 and 8.0) is insufficient even for qualitative estimation of pH in living cells because half-width of lifetime distribution in the studied samples is higher than the sensor dynamic interval. Nevertheless, the variations in rhodamine emission intensity are much higher and allow rough discrimination of acidic and neutral cell conditions. Thus, the results of this study indicate that the suggested approach to the design of dual pH-O2 sensors makes possible to prepare the biocompatible and water-soluble conjugate with fast cellular uptake.

Fluorescence lifetime nanothermometer based on the equilibrium formation of anthracene AIE-excimers in living cells

The effective measurement of temperature in living systems at the nano and microscopic scales continues to be a challenge to this day. Here, we study the use of 2-(anthracen-2-yl)-1,3-diisopropylguanidine, 1, as a nanothermometer based on fluorescence lifetime measurements and its bioimaging applications. In aqueous solution, 1 is shown in aggregated form and the equilibrium between the two main aggregate types (T-shaped and π-π) is highly sensitive to the temperature. The heating of the medium shifts the equilibrium toward the formation of highly emissive T-shaped aggregates. This species shows a high fluorescence emission and a long lifetime in comparison with the π-π aggregates and the freé monomer. A linear relationship between the fluorescence lifetime and the temperature both in aqueous solution and in a synthetic intracellular buffer was found. Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) also showed a linear relationship between lifetime and temperature with an excellent sensitivity in MCF7 breast cancer cells, which opens the door for its potential use as FLIM nanothermometer in the biomedical field.

Response strategies and biological applications of organic fluorescent thermometry: cell- and mitochondrion-level detection

Temperature homeostasis is critical for cells to perform their physiological functions. Among the diverse methods for temperature detection, fluorescent temperature probes stand out as a proven and effective tool, especially for monitoring temperature in cells and suborganelles, with a specific emphasis on mitochondria. The utilization of these probes provides a new opportunity to enhance our understanding of the mechanisms and interconnections underlying various physiological activities related to temperature homeostasis. However, the complexity and variability of cells and suborganelles necessitate fluorescent temperature probes with high resolution and sensitivity. To meet the demanding requirements for intracellular/subcellular temperature detection, several strategies have been developed, offering a range of options to address this challenge. This review examines four fundamental temperature-response strategies employed by small molecule and polymer probes, including intramolecular rotation, polarity sensitivity, Förster resonance energy transfer, and structural changes. The primary emphasis was placed on elucidating molecular design and biological applications specific to each type of probe. Furthermore, this review provides an insightful discussion on factors that may affect fluorescent thermometry, providing valuable perspectives for future development in the field. Finally, the review concludes by presenting cutting-edge response strategies and research insights for mitigating biases in temperature sensing.

Photoswitchable Temperature Nanosensors Based on the Chemical Kinetics of Photochromic Naphthopyran for Live Cell Imaging

Microscopic temperature imaging holds significant importance in various fields, particularly in the development of nanomaterials for photothermal therapy (PTT). In this study, we present an analytical method to probe cellular temperature based on chemical kinetics and additional luminescence quenching by photoswitchable naphthopyrans. Taking advantage of the rapid ring-closing reaction of naphthopyran, temperature sensing was realized with a linear relationship between the logarithmic decay time constant (ln τ) and the reciprocal temperature (T-1). To create luminescent temperature nanosensors, we harnessed the ability of ring-opened naphthopyran to quench the luminescence of a semiconducting polymer, resulting in a diverse array of probes. Structural modifications on the naphthopyran also provided a way to fine-tune the sensitivity and response window of the nanosensors. The method allowed cellular temperature imaging on a cost-effective fluorescence microscopic setup. As an application, the temperature increase induced by gold nanorods (AuNRs) in cell lysosomes was successfully monitored, laying the foundation for a new class of photoswitchable nanosensors with promising biological applications.

Probing organoid metabolism using fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM): The next frontier of drug discovery and disease understanding

Organoid models have been used to address important questions in developmental and cancer biology, tissue repair, advanced modelling of disease and therapies, among other bioengineering applications. Such 3D microenvironmental models can investigate the regulation of cell metabolism, and provide key insights into the mechanisms at the basis of cell growth, differentiation, communication, interactions with the environment and cell death. Their accessibility and complexity, based on 3D spatial and temporal heterogeneity, make organoids suitable for the application of novel, dynamic imaging microscopy methods, such as fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) and related decay time-assessing readouts. Several biomarkers and assays have been proposed to study cell metabolism by FLIM in various organoid models. Herein, we present an expert-opinion discussion on the principles of FLIM and PLIM, instrumentation and data collection and analysis protocols, and general and emerging biosensor-based approaches, to highlight the pioneering work being performed in this field.

Balance between the cell viability and death in 3D

Cell death is a phenomenon, frequently perceived as an absolute event for cell, tissue and the organ. However, the rising popularity and complexity of such 3D multicellular 'tissue building blocks' as heterocellular spheroids, organoids, and 'assembloids' prompts to revise the definition and quantification of cell viability and death. It raises several questions on the overall viability of all the cells within 3D volume and on choosing the appropriate, continuous, and non-destructive viability assay enabling for a single-cell analysis. In this review, we look at cell viability and cell death modalities with attention to the intrinsic features of such 3D models as spheroids, organoids, and bioprints. Furthermore, we look at emerging and promising methodologies, which can help define and understand the balance between cell viability and death in dynamic and complex 3D environments. We conclude that the recent innovations in biofabrication, biosensor probe development, and fluorescence microscopy can help answer these questions.

Shell Engineering on Thermal Sensitivity of Lifetime-Based NIR Nanothermometers for Accurate Temperature Measurement in Murine Internal Liver Organ

Lifetime-based NIR luminescent nanothermometry is ideally suited for temperature detection in living cells and in vivo, but the thermal sensitivity (S_r) modulation remains elusive. Herein, a thorough investigation is performed to unveil the shell effect on lifetime-based S_r by finely controlling the shell thickness of lanthanide-doped core-shell-shell nanoparticles. Owing to the space-dependent energy transfer and back energy transfer between Nd³⁺ and Yb³⁺ as well as the energy migration to surface quenchers, both active and inert shells can regulate the thermal-dependent nonradiative decays and NIR luminescence lifetime of Yb³⁺, which in turn modulates the S_r from 0.56% to 1.54% °C^-1. After poly(acrylic acid) modification of the optimal architecture, the tiny nanoprobes possess robust stability to fluctuations in the microenvironment, which enables accurate temperature mapping of inflammation in the internal liver organ of living mouse. This work will provide new insights for optimizing S_r and guidance for precise temperature measurements in vivo.

Single-cell thermometry with a nanothermocouple probe

Herein, a nanopipette-based thermocouple probe that possesses high temperature resolution, rapid response, good reversibility and stability was constructed and successfully applied for single-cell temperature sensing. Different intracellular temperatures were observed in diverse types of cells, which reveals differences in their metabolism levels. Temperature responses of cancer and normal cells against various exogenous drugs were also demonstrated. The spatially resolved temperature sensing of three-dimensional cell culture models unveils the existence of their inner temperature gradients. This work would facilitate drug screening and disease diagnosis.

Lipid Membrane Alterations in Tumor Spheroids Revealed by Fluorescence Lifetime Microscopy Imaging

Three-dimensional (3D) cultured tumor spheroid models, as one type of in vitro model, have been proven to have more physiological similarities to in vivo animal models than cells in 2D cultures. Tumor spheroids have been widely used in preclinical experiments of anticancer drug treatments, providing reliable data in pathogenetic research. Currently, different 3D cell culture conditions, even in the same cell line, generate heterogeneous spheroids in morphology and size, resulting in different growth rates or drug-killing responses. Therefore, the measurement and evaluation of the properties of tumor spheroids have become highly demanding tasks with huge challenges. For functional characterization of tumor spheroids, the microenvironment sensitivity and quantitative properties of the fluorescence lifetime microscopy imaging (FLIM) technique have great advantages for improving the reliability of cell physiological testing. In this paper, we have proposed a FLIM-based approach to observe the lipid components labeled with Nile red of cells in both 3D and 2D cultures. The imaging data and analysis provided basic information on the sizes, morphologies, and cell membrane fluorescence lifetime values of the tumor spheroids. FLIM data showed that the microenvironment of the cell membrane in the 3D model was largely altered compared to that in the 2D culture. Next, a series of parameters that may influence the lipid components of tumor cells and tumor spheroids were tested by FLIM, including pH, viscosity, and polarity. The results showed that pH and viscosity contributed little to the change in fluorescence lifetime values, while the change in cell membrane polarity was the main cause of the alterations in fluorescence lifetime data, suggesting that cell membrane polarity should be considered a marker in distinguishing tumor spheroids from cellular physiological status. In conclusion, this FLIM-based testing process has been proven to be a quantitative method for measuring the differences between the cells of the 3D model from the 2D cultured cells with satisfactory sensitivity and accuracy, providing a high potential standard assay in the quality evaluation and control of tumor spheroids for future anticancer drug development.

Nanothermometer with Temperature Induced Reversible Emission for Evaluation of Intracellular Thermal Dynamics

Temperature dynamics reflect the physiological state of cells, and accurate measurement of intracellular temperature helps to understand the biological processes. Herein, we report a novel nanothermometer by conjugating a fluorescent probe 3-ethyl-2-[4-(1,2,2-triphenylvinyl)styryl]benzothiazol-3-ium iodide (TPEBT) with a thermoresponsive polymer poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-tetrabutylphosphonium styrenesulfonate) [P(NIPAM-co-TPSS)]. The derived nanoprobe TPEBT-P(NIPAM-co-TPSS) self-assembles into micelles with TPEBT as hydrophobic core and PNIPAM as hydrophilic shell. It exhibits aggregation-induced emission (AIE) at λ_ex/λ_em = 420/640 nm in aqueous medium with a quantum yield of Φ_F 11.9%. The rise in temperature transforms PNIPAM chains from linear to compact spheres to serve as the core of micelles, and meanwhile converts TPEBT from the state of aggregation to dispersion and redistributes in the micellar shell. Temperature-driven phase transition of P(NIPAM-co-TPSS) mediates the reversible aggregation and disaggregation of TPEBT and endows the nanothermometer with temperature-dependent AIE features and favorable sensitivity for temperature sensing in 32-40 °C. TPEBT-P(NIPAM-co-TPSS) is taken up by HeLa cells to distribute mainly in lysosomes. It enables quantitative visualization of in situ thermal dynamics in response to stimuli from carbonyl cyanide 4-(trifluoromethoxy)phenylhydrazone, oligomycin, genipin, and lipopolysaccharide. The real-time monitoring of photothermal-induced intracellular temperature variation is further conducted.

Oxygen Measurement in Microdevices

Oxygen plays a fundamental role in respiration and metabolism, and quantifying oxygen levels is essential in many environmental, industrial, and research settings. Microdevices facilitate the study of dynamic, oxygen-dependent effects in real time. This review is organized around the key needs for oxygen measurement in microdevices, including integrability into microfabricated systems; sensor dynamic range and sensitivity; spatially resolved measurements to map oxygen over two- or three-dimensional regions of interest; and compatibility with multimodal and multianalyte measurements. After a brief overview of biological readouts of oxygen, followed by oxygen sensor types that have been implemented in microscale devices and sensing mechanisms, this review presents select recent applications in organs-on-chip in vitro models and new sensor capabilities enabling oxygen microscopy, bioprocess manufacturing, and pharmaceutical industries. With the advancement of multiplexed, interconnected sensors and instruments and integration with industry workflows, intelligent microdevice-sensor systems including oxygen sensors will have further impact in environmental science, manufacturing, and medicine.

Intracellular Aβ42 Aggregation Leads to Cellular Thermogenesis

The aggregation of Aβ42 is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. It is still not known what the biochemical changes are inside a cell which will eventually lead to Aβ42 aggregation. Thermogenesis has been associated with cellular stress, the latter of which may promote aggregation. We perform intracellular thermometry measurements using fluorescent polymeric thermometers to show that Aβ42 aggregation in live cells leads to an increase in cell-averaged temperatures. This rise in temperature is mitigated upon treatment with an aggregation inhibitor of Aβ42 and is independent of mitochondrial damage that can otherwise lead to thermogenesis. With this, we present a diagnostic assay which could be used to screen small-molecule inhibitors to amyloid proteins in physiologically relevant settings. To interpret our experimental observations and motivate the development of future models, we perform classical molecular dynamics of model Aβ peptides to examine the factors that hinder thermal dissipation. We observe that this is controlled by the presence of ions in its surrounding environment, the morphology of the amyloid peptides, and the extent of its hydrogen-bonding interactions with water. We show that aggregation and heat retention by Aβ peptides are favored under intracellular-mimicking ionic conditions, which could potentially promote thermogenesis. The latter will, in turn, trigger further nucleation events that accelerate disease progression.

High Resolution Fluorescence Lifetime Maps from Minimal Photon Counts

Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) may reveal subcellular spatial lifetime maps of key molecular species. Yet, such a quantitative picture of life necessarily demands high photon budgets at every pixel under the current analysis paradigm, thereby increasing acquisition time and photodamage to the sample. Motivated by recent developments in computational statistics, we provide a direct means to update our knowledge of the lifetime maps of species of different lifetimes from direct photon arrivals, while accounting for experimental features such as arbitrary forms of the instrument response function (IRF) and exploiting information from empty laser pulses not resulting in photon detection. Our ability to construct lifetime maps holds for arbitrary lifetimes, from short lifetimes (comparable to the IRF) to lifetimes exceeding interpulse times. As our method is highly data efficient, for the same amount of data normally used to determine lifetimes and photon ratios, working within the Bayesian paradigm, we report direct blind unmixing of lifetimes with subnanosecond resolution and subpixel spatial resolution using standard raster scan FLIM images. We demonstrate our method using a wide range of simulated and experimental data.

Zinc Donor–Acceptor Schiff Base Complexes as Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Emitters

Four new zinc(II) Schiff base complexes with carbazole electron donor units and either a 2,3-pyrazinedicarbonitrile or a phthalonitrile acceptor unit were synthesized. The donor units are equipped with two bulky 2-ethylhexyl alkyl chains to increase the solubility of the complexes in organic solvents. Furthermore, the effect of an additional phenyl linker between donor and acceptor unit on the photophysical properties was investigated. Apart from prompt fluorescence, the Schiff base complexes show thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) with quantum yields up to 47%. The dyes bearing a phthalonitrile acceptor emit in the green–yellow part of the electromagnetic spectrum and those with the stronger 2,3-pyrazinedicarbonitrile acceptor—in the orange–red part of the spectrum. The emission quantum yields decrease upon substitution of phthalonitrile with 2,3-pyrazinedicarbonitrile and upon introduction of the phenyl spacer. The TADF decay times vary between 130 µs and 3.5 ms at ambient temperature. The weaker phthalonitrile acceptor and the additional phenyl linker favor longer TADF decay times. All the complexes show highly temperature-dependent TADF decay time (temperature coefficients above −3%/K at ambient conditions) which makes them potentially suitable for application as molecular thermometers. Immobilized into cell-penetrating RL-100 nanoparticles, the best representative shows temperature coefficients of −5.4%/K at 25 °C that makes the material interesting for further application in intracellular imaging.

Dual-center co-doped and mixed ratiometric LuVO4:Nd3+/Yb3+nanothermometers

During last decade luminescence thermometry has become a widely studied research field due to its potential applications for real time contactless temperature sensing where usual thermometers cannot be used. Special attention is paid to the development of accurate and reliable thermal sensors with simple reading. To address existing problems of ratiometric thermometers based on thermally-coupled levels, LuVO₄:Nd³⁺/Yb³⁺thermal sensors were studied as a proof-of-concept of dual-center thermometer obtained by co-doping or mixture. Both approaches to create a dual-center sensor were compared in terms of energy transfer efficiency, relative sensitivity, and temperature resolution. Effect of excitation mechanism and Yb³⁺doping concentration on thermometric performances was also investigated. The best characteristics ofS_r = 0.34% K^-1@298 K and ΔT = 0.2 K were obtained for mixed phosphors upon host excitation.

Combined fluorophore and phosphor conjugation: a new design concept for simultaneous and spatially localized dual lifetime intracellular sensing of oxygen and pH

In this communication, we propose a new strategy for double-parametric biosensing and present a dual pH/O₂ lifetime sensor based on the covalent conjugation of fluorescein (pH sensor) and an orthometalated iridium complex (O₂ sensor) to human serum albumin (HSA). The resulting conjugate demonstrates biocompatibility, low toxicity, and fast cellular uptake, and displays independent lifetime responses towards variations in media acidity and oxygen concentration that makes it suitable for application as an effective pH/O₂ probe in luminescence microscopy using the FLIM/PLIM detection mode. The concept applicability has been exemplified using the dual spatially and temporally localized intracellular sensing of pH and O₂ concentration in living cells.

Phosphorescent NIR emitters for biomedicine: applications, advances and challenges

Application of NIR (near-infrared) emitting transition metal complexes in biomedicine is a rapidly developing area of research. Emission of this class of compounds in the "optical transparency windows" of biological tissues and the intrinsic sensitivity of their phosphorescence to oxygen resulted in the preparation of several commercial oxygen sensors capable of deep (up to whole-body) and quantitative mapping of oxygen gradients suitable for in vivo experimental studies. In addition to this achievement, the last decade has also witnessed the increased growth of successful alternative applications of NIR phosphors that include (i) site-specific in vitro and in vivo visualization of sophisticated biological models ranging from 3D cell cultures to intact animals; (ii) sensing of various biologically relevant analytes, such as pH, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, RedOx agents, etc.; (iii) and several therapeutic applications such as photodynamic (PDT), photothermal (PTT), and photoactivated cancer (PACT) therapies as well as their combinations with other therapeutic and imaging modalities to yield new variants of combined therapies and theranostics. Nevertheless, emerging applications of these compounds in experimental biomedicine and their implementation as therapeutic agents practically applicable in PDT, PTT, and PACT face challenges related to a critically important improvement of their photophysical and physico-chemical characteristics. This review outlines the current state of the art and achievements of the last decade and stresses the most promising trends, major development prospects, and challenges in the design of NIR phosphors suitable for biomedical applications.

Sensitive and Stable Thermometer Based on the Long Fluorescence Lifetime of Au Nanoclusters for Mitochondria

Detecting the temperature of intracellular mitochondria with high sensitivity and stability is crucial to understanding the cellular metabolism and revealing the processes of mitochondria-related physiology. In this paper, employing the long fluorescence lifetime of modified Au nanoclusters (mAuNCs) by 4-(carboxybutyl) triphenylphosphonium bromide, we developed a fluorescence lifetime thermometer with high sensitivity and stability for the temperature of the intracellular mitochondria. A high relative temperature sensitivity of 2.8% and excellent photostability were achieved from the present thermometer. After incubation with L929 cells, the mAuNCs could be endocytosed into the cells and targeted the mitochondria, and the temperature changes at the L929 cells' mitochondria, which were stimulated by carbonyl cyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone and Ca²⁺, were successfully detected via the fluorescence lifetime images of the mAuNCs. Furthermore, utilizing the mAuNCs, we clarified the effect of Mg²⁺ on the temperature of the intracellular mitochondria. The strategy of employing a material with a long fluorescence lifetime and remarkable stability to fabricate the fluorescence lifetime thermometer for mitochondria can be used to design various thermometers for other organelles.

Spatial light interference microscopy: principle and applications to biomedicine

In this paper, we review spatial light interference microscopy (SLIM), a common-path, phase-shifting interferometer, built onto a phase-contrast microscope, with white-light illumination. As one of the most sensitive quantitative phase imaging (QPI) methods, SLIM allows for speckle-free phase reconstruction with sub-nanometer path-length stability. We first review image formation in QPI, scattering, and full-field methods. Then, we outline SLIM imaging from theory and instrumentation to diffraction tomography. Zernike's phase-contrast microscopy, phase retrieval in SLIM, and halo removal algorithms are discussed. Next, we discuss the requirements for operation, with a focus on software developed in-house for SLIM that enables high-throughput acquisition, whole slide scanning, mosaic tile registration, and imaging with a color camera. We introduce two methods for solving the inverse problem using SLIM, white-light tomography, and Wolf phase tomography. Lastly, we review the applications of SLIM in basic science and clinical studies. SLIM can study cell dynamics, cell growth and proliferation, cell migration, mass transport, etc. In clinical settings, SLIM can assist with cancer studies, reproductive technology, blood testing, etc. Finally, we review an emerging trend, where SLIM imaging in conjunction with artificial intelligence brings computational specificity and, in turn, offers new solutions to outstanding challenges in cell biology and pathology.

Luminescence lifetime imaging of three-dimensional biological objects

A major focus of current biological studies is to fill the knowledge gaps between cell, tissue and organism scales. To this end, a wide array of contemporary optical analytical tools enable multiparameter quantitative imaging of live and fixed cells, three-dimensional (3D) systems, tissues, organs and organisms in the context of their complex spatiotemporal biological and molecular features. In particular, the modalities of luminescence lifetime imaging, comprising fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLI) and phosphorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (PLIM), in synergy with Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) assays, provide a wealth of information. On the application side, the luminescence lifetime of endogenous molecules inside cells and tissues, overexpressed fluorescent protein fusion biosensor constructs or probes delivered externally provide molecular insights at multiple scales into protein-protein interaction networks, cellular metabolism, dynamics of molecular oxygen and hypoxia, physiologically important ions, and other physical and physiological parameters. Luminescence lifetime imaging offers a unique window into the physiological and structural environment of cells and tissues, enabling a new level of functional and molecular analysis in addition to providing 3D spatially resolved and longitudinal measurements that can range from microscopic to macroscopic scale. We provide an overview of luminescence lifetime imaging and summarize key biological applications from cells and tissues to organisms.

Mapping intracellular thermal response of cancer cells to magnetic hyperthermia treatment

Temperature is a key parameter for optimal cellular function and growth. Temperature perturbation may directly lead to cell death. This can be used in cancer therapies to kill cells in tumors, a therapeutic approach called hyperthermia. To avoid overheating of tumors that may damage healthy tissues, a knowledge of the intracellular temperature reached during the hyperthermia treatment of cancer cells is relevant. Recently, several luminescent intracellular nanothermometers have been proposed; however an application to sense temperature during a hyperthermia treatment is lacking. Here we present a technique to measure intracellular temperature changes in in vitro cancer cell models. For this purpose, we study for the first time the temperature dependence of the green fluorescent protein (GFP)'s fluorescence lifetime parameter. We find the fluorescence lifetime of GFP can be used for nanothermosensing. We use GFP in a bound form to actin filaments as an intracellular thermal reporter. Furthermore, we assess intracellular temperature during in vitro magnetothermal therapy on live HeLa cells incubated with polyacrylic acid-coated iron oxide nanoparticles. Compared to other thermosensitive materials and formulations reported so far, the GFP nanothermosensor is easily expressed via transfection and various GFP variants are commercially available. We foresee that the nanothermometer developed might find widespread applications in cancer therapy research and development.

Advances and challenges for fluorescence nanothermometry

Fluorescent nanothermometers can probe changes in local temperature in living cells and in vivo and reveal fundamental insights into biological properties. This field has attracted global efforts in developing both temperature-responsive materials and detection procedures to achieve sub-degree temperature resolution in biosystems. Recent generations of nanothermometers show superior performance to earlier ones and also offer multifunctionality, enabling state-of-the-art functional imaging with improved spatial, temporal and temperature resolutions for monitoring the metabolism of intracellular organelles and internal organs. Although progress in this field has been rapid, it has not been without controversy, as recent studies have shown possible biased sensing during fluorescence-based detection. Here, we introduce the design principles and advances in fluorescence nanothermometry, highlight application achievements, discuss scenarios that may lead to biased sensing, analyze the challenges ahead in terms of both fundamental issues and practical implementations, and point to new directions for improving this interdisciplinary field.

Disruption of hypoxia-inducible fatty acid binding protein 7 induces beige fat-like differentiation and thermogenesis in breast cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Humans produce heat through non-shivering thermogenesis, a metabolic process that occurs in inducible beige adipocytes expressing uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1). UCP1 dissipates the proton gradient of the mitochondrial inner membrane and converts that energy into heat. It is unclear whether cancer cells can exhibit autonomous thermogenesis. Previously, we found that the knockdown of hypoxia-inducible fatty acid binding protein 7 (FABP7) increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) in breast cancer cells. ROS are known to induce beige adipocyte differentiation.

METHODS

We investigated the association of tumor hypoxia, FABP7, and UCP1 across breast cancer patients using METABRIC and TCGA data sets. Furthermore, using a breast cancer cell line, HCC1806, we tested the effect of FABP7 knockdown on cellular physiology including thermogenesis.

RESULTS

We found a strong mutual exclusivity of FABP7 and UCP1 expression both in METABRIC and in TCGA, indicating major metabolic phenotypic differences. FABP7 was preferentially distributed in poorly differentiated-, estrogen receptor (ER) negative tumors. In contrast, UCP1 was highly expressed in normal ducts and well-differentiated-, ER positive-, less hypoxic tumors. In the cell line-based experiments, UCP1 and its transcriptional regulators were upregulated upon FABP7 knockdown. UCP1 was induced in about 20% of cancer cells, and the effect was increased further in hypoxia. UCP1 depolarized mitochondrial membranes at the site of expression. UCP1 induction was associated with the increase in proton leak, glycolysis, and maximal respiration, mimicking the typical energy profile of beige adipocytes. Most importantly, UCP1 induction elevated cancer cell temperature associated with increased vulnerability to hypoxia and γ-irradiation.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that breast cancer cells can undergo thermogenesis through UCP1 induction. Disrupting FABP7-mediated fatty acid metabolism can unlock UCP1-mediated thermogenesis, potentially making it possible to develop therapies to target thermogenesis. Further study would be warranted to investigate the effect of rise in temperature of cancer cells on patients' outcomes and the relationship to other metabolic pathways.

TADF-Emitting Zn(II)-Benzoporphyrin: An Indicator for Simultaneous Sensing of Oxygen and Temperature

A new luminescent indicator is presented that enables simultaneous measurement of oxygen and temperature at a single wavelength. The indicator, an alkylsulfone-substituted Zn(II)-meso-tetraphenyltetrabenzoporphyrin, emits prompt and thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF). TADF is sensitive toward oxygen and temperature and is referenced against prompt fluorescence (PF) that is not affected by oxygen. The information on both parameters is accessed from the decay time of TADF and the temperature-dependent ratio of TADF and PF. Sensor foils, made from poly(styrene-co-acrylonitrile) and the indicator dye, enable temperature-compensated trace oxygen sensing (0.002-6 hPa pO2) at ambient conditions. Compared to the previously reported dual sensors based on two emitters, the new sensor significantly simplifies the experimental setup and eliminates risks of different leaching or photobleaching rates by utilizing only one indicator dye and operating at a single wavelength.

Zn(II) Schiff Bases: Bright TADF Emitters for Self-referenced Decay Time-Based Optical Temperature Sensing

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) is a highly temperature-dependent process and can be used in optical thermometry. TADF-based optical thermometers reported so far show fairly high-temperature sensitivity but have poor brightness and significant oxygen cross-talk. A new class of TADF emitters, Zn(II) Schiff base complexes, possess excellent brightness and high temperature sensitivity of the decay time at ambient temperature (4.1%/K change of TADF lifetime at 25 °C), enabling a resolution better than 0.03 °C. Oxygen cross-sensitivity is eliminated by covering the sensing layer (luminophore in polystyrene) with an off-stoichiometry thiol-ene polymer as an oxygen-consuming layer, and a poly(vinylidene chloride-co-acrylonitrile) layer as an oxygen barrier. The material is stable after more than 2 months of storage at ambient air, which enables long-term temperature monitoring.

Lightsheet fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy with wide-field time-correlated single photon counting

We report on wide-field time-correlated single photon counting (TCSPC)-based fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) with lightsheet illumination. A pulsed diode laser is used for excitation, and a crossed delay line anode image intensifier, effectively a single-photon sensitive camera, is used to record the position and arrival time of the photons with picosecond time resolution, combining low illumination intensity of microwatts with wide-field data collection. We pair this detector with the lightsheet illumination technique, and apply it to 3D FLIM imaging of dye gradients in human cancer cell spheroids, and C. elegans.

A naphthalimide-based thermometer: heat-induced fluorescence “turn-on” sensing in a wide temperature range in ambient atmosphere

A heat-induced fluorescent “turn-on” sensor based on naphthalimide, NapPT-1, in which thioether chains were joined at the 4-site of naphthalimide, was designed and synthesized.

Visualization of Stem Cell Niche by Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy

Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM), enabling live quantitative multiparametric analyses, is an emerging bioimaging approach in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. When combined with stem cell-derived intestinal organoid models, FLIM allows for tracing stem cells and monitoring of their proliferation, metabolic fluxes, and oxygenation. It is compatible with the use of live Matrigel-grown intestinal organoids produced from primary adult stem cells, crypts, and transgenic Lgr5-GFP mice. In this chapter we summarize available experimental protocols, imaging platforms (one- and two-photon excited FLIM, phosphorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (PLIM)) and provide the anticipated data for FLIM imaging of the live intestinal organoids, focusing on labeling of cell proliferation, its colocalization with the stem cell niche, measured local oxygenation, autofluorescence, and some other parameters. The protocol is illustrated with examples of multiparameter imaging, employing spectral and "time domain"-based separation of dyes, probes, and assays.

Estimation of the Mitochondrial Membrane Potential Using Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy

Monitoring of cell metabolism represents an important application area for fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM). In particular, assessment of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) in complex three-dimensional multicellular in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models would enable improved segmentation and functional discrimination of cell types, directly report on the mitochondrial function and complement the quenched-phosphorescence detection of cellular O₂ and two-photon excited FLIM of endogenous NAD(P)H. Here, we report the green and orange-emitting fluorescent dyes SYTO and tetramethylrhodamine methyl ester (TMRM) as potential FLIM probes for MMP. In addition to nuclear, SYTO 16 and 24 dyes also display mitochondrial accumulation. FLIM with the culture of human colon cancer HCT116 cells allowed observation of the heterogeneity of mitochondrial polarization during the cell cycle progression. The dyes also demonstrated good performance with 3D cultures of Lgr5-GFP mouse intestinal organoids, providing efficient and quick cell staining and compatibility with two-photon excitation. Multiplexed imaging of Lgr5-GFP, proliferating cells (Hoechst 33342-aided FLIM), and TMRM-FLIM allowed us to identify the population of metabolically active cells in stem cell niche. TMRM-FLIM enabled to visualize the differences in membrane potential between Lgr5-positive and other proliferating and differentiated cell types. Altogether, SYTO 24 and TMRM dyes represent promising markers for advanced FLIM-based studies of cell bioenergetics with complex 3D and in vivo models. © 2019 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.

Cellulose-based scaffolds for fluorescence lifetime imaging-assisted tissue engineering

Quantitative measurement of pH and metabolite gradients by microscopy is one of the challenges in the production of scaffold-grown organoids and multicellular aggregates. Herein, we used the cellulose-binding domain (CBD) of the Cellulomonas fimi CenA protein for designing biosensor scaffolds that allow measurement of pH and Ca²⁺ gradients by fluorescence intensity and lifetime imaging (FLIM) detection modes. By fusing CBD with pH-sensitive enhanced cyan fluorescent protein (CBD-ECFP), we achieved efficient labeling of cellulose-based scaffolds based on nanofibrillar, bacterial cellulose, and decellularized plant materials. CBD-ECFP bound to the cellulose matrices demonstrated pH sensitivity comparable to untagged ECFP (1.9-2.3 ns for pH 6-8), thus making it compatible with FLIM-based analysis of extracellular pH. By using 3D culture of human colon cancer cells (HCT116) and adult stem cell-derived mouse intestinal organoids, we evaluated the utility of the produced biosensor scaffold. CBD-ECFP was sensitive to increases in extracellular acidification: the results showed a decline in 0.2-0.4 pH units in response to membrane depolarization by the protonophore FCCP. With the intestinal organoid model, we demonstrated multiparametric imaging by combining extracellular acidification (FLIM) with phosphorescent probe-based monitoring of cell oxygenation. The described labeling strategy allows for the design of extracellular pH-sensitive scaffolds for multiparametric FLIM assays and their use in engineered live cancer and stem cell-derived tissues. Collectively, this research can help in achieving the controlled biofabrication of 3D tissue models with known metabolic characteristics. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: We designed biosensors consisting of a cellulose-binding domain (CBD) and pH- and Ca²⁺-sensitive fluorescent proteins. CBD-tagged biosensors efficiently label various types of cellulose matrices including nanofibrillar cellulose and decellularized plant materials. Hybrid biosensing cellulose scaffolds designed in this study were successfully tested by multiparameter FLIM microscopy in 3D cultures of cancer cells and mouse intestinal organoids.

Imaging of oxygen and hypoxia in cell and tissue samples

Molecular oxygen (O2) is a key player in cell mitochondrial function, redox balance and oxidative stress, normal tissue function and many common disease states. Various chemical, physical and biological methods have been proposed for measurement, real-time monitoring and imaging of O2 concentration, state of decreased O2 (hypoxia) and related parameters in cells and tissue. Here, we review the established and emerging optical microscopy techniques allowing to visualize O2 levels in cells and tissue samples, mostly under in vitro and ex vivo, but also under in vivo settings. Particular examples include fluorescent hypoxia stains, fluorescent protein reporter systems, phosphorescent probes and nanosensors of different types. These techniques allow high-resolution mapping of O2 gradients in live or post-mortem tissue, in 2D or 3D, qualitatively or quantitatively. They enable control and monitoring of oxygenation conditions and their correlation with other biomarkers of cell and tissue function. Comparison of these techniques and corresponding imaging setups, their analytical capabilities and typical applications are given.

Multi-Parametric Imaging of Hypoxia and Cell Cycle in Intestinal Organoid Culture

Dynamics of oxygenation of tissue and stem cell niches are important for understanding physiological function of the intestine in normal and diseased states. Only a few techniques allow live visualization of tissue hypoxia at cellular level and in three dimensions. We describe an optimized protocol, which uses cell-penetrating O₂-sensitive probe, Pt-Glc and phosphorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (PLIM), to analyze O₂ distribution in mouse intestinal organoids. Unlike the other indirect and end-point hypoxia stains, or point measurements with microelectrodes, this method provides high-resolution real-time visualization of O₂ in organoids. Multiplexing with conventional fluorescent live cell imaging probes such as the Hoechst 33342-based FLIM assay of cell proliferation, and immunofluorescence staining of endogenous proteins, allows analysis of key physiologic parameters under O₂ control in organoids. The protocol is useful for gastroenterology and physiology of intestinal tissue, hypoxia research, regenerative medicine, studying host-microbiota interactions and bioenergetics.

Nanoparticle-based fluoroionophore for analysis of potassium ion dynamics in 3D tissue models and in vivo

The imaging of real-time fluxes of K+ ions in live cell with high dynamic range (5-150 mM) is of paramount importance for neuroscience and physiology of the gastrointestinal tract, kidney and other tissues. In particular, the research on high-performance deep-red fluorescent nanoparticle-based biosensors is highly anticipated. We found that BODIPY-based FI3 K+-sensitive fluoroionophore encapsulated in cationic polymer RL100 nanoparticles displays unusually strong efficiency in staining of broad spectrum of cell models, such as primary neurons and intestinal organoids. Using comparison of brightness, photostability and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) we confirmed that FI3 nanoparticles display distinctively superior intracellular staining compared to the free dye. We evaluated FI3 nanoparticles in real-time live cell imaging and found that it is highly useful for monitoring intra- and extracellular K+ dynamics in cultured neurons. Proof-of-concept in vivo brain imaging confirmed applicability of the biosensor for visualization of epileptic seizures. Collectively, this data makes fluoroionophore FI3 a versatile cross-platform fluorescent biosensor, broadly compatible with diverse experimental models and that crown ether-based polymer nanoparticles can provide a new venue for design of efficient fluorescent probes.

High-Content Monitoring of Drug Effects in a 3D Spheroid Model

A recent decline in the discovery of novel medications challenges the widespread use of 2D monolayer cell assays in the drug discovery process. As a result, the need for more appropriate cellular models of human physiology and disease has renewed the interest in spheroid 3D culture as a pertinent model for drug screening. However, despite technological progress that has significantly simplified spheroid production and analysis, the seeming complexity of the 3D approach has delayed its adoption in many laboratories. The present report demonstrates that the use of a spheroid model may be straightforward and can provide information that is not directly available with a standard 2D approach. We describe a cost-efficient method that allows for the production of an array of uniform spheroids, their staining with vital dyes, real-time monitoring of drug effects, and an ATP-endpoint assay, all in the same 96-well U-bottom plate. To demonstrate the method performance, we analyzed the effect of the preclinical anticancer drug MLN4924 on spheroids formed by VCaP and LNCaP prostate cancer cells. The drug has different outcomes in these cell lines, varying from cell cycle arrest and protective dormancy to senescence and apoptosis. We demonstrate that by using high-content analysis of spheroid arrays, the effect of the drug can be described as a series of EC50 values that clearly dissect the cytostatic and cytotoxic drug actions. The method was further evaluated using four standard cancer chemotherapeutics with different mechanisms of action, and the effect of each drug is described as a unique multi-EC50 diagram. Once fully validated in a wider range of conditions, this method could be particularly valuable for phenotype-based drug discovery.

Photoluminescence Lifetime Imaging of Synthesized Proteins in Living Cells Using an Iridium-Alkyne Probe

Designing probes for real-time imaging of dynamic processes in living cells is a continuous challenge. Herein, a novel near-infrared (NIR) photoluminescence probe having a long lifetime was exploited for photoluminescence lifetime imaging (PLIM) using an iridium-alkyne complex. This probe offers the benefits of deep-red to NIR emission, a long Stokes shift, excellent cell penetration, low cytotoxicity, and good resistance to photobleaching. This example is the first PLIM probe applicable to the click reaction of copper(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) with remarkable lifetime shifts of 414 ns, before and after click reaction. The approach fully eliminates the background interference and distinguishes the reacted probes from the unreacted probes, thus enabling the wash-free imaging of the newly synthesized proteins within single living cells. Based on the unique properties of the iridium complexes, it is anticipated to have applications for imaging other processes within living cells.

Intracellular temperature measurements with fluorescent polymeric thermometers

Intracellular temperature can be measured using fluorescent polymeric thermometersviatheir temperature-dependent fluorescence signals.

Use of Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy (FLIM) as a Timer of Cell Cycle S Phase

Incorporation of thymidine analogues in replicating DNA, coupled with antibody and fluorophore staining, allows analysis of cell proliferation, but is currently limited to monolayer cultures, fixed cells and end-point assays. We describe a simple microscopy imaging method for live real-time analysis of cell proliferation, S phase progression over several division cycles, effects of anti-proliferative drugs and other applications. It is based on the prominent (~ 1.7-fold) quenching of fluorescence lifetime of a common cell-permeable nuclear stain, Hoechst 33342 upon the incorporation of 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) in genomic DNA and detection by fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM). We show that quantitative and accurate FLIM technique allows high-content, multi-parametric dynamic analyses, far superior to the intensity-based imaging. We demonstrate its uses with monolayer cell cultures, complex 3D tissue models of tumor cell spheroids and intestinal organoids, and in physiological study with metformin treatment.