The new live imagers MitoMM1/2 for mitochondrial visualization

• Published in: Biochemical and biophysical research communications 2021-07, Vol.562, p.50-54
• Main Authors: Maeda, Miwa, Suzuki, Mayu, Takashima, Shigeo, Sasaki, Tsutomu, Oh-Hashi, Kentaro, Takemori, Hiroshi
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: ATTO dye; Detergent; Live imager; Mitochondria
• ISSN: 0006-291X; 1090-2104
• DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2021.05.040

Mitochondria are eukaryotic organelles that consist of outer and inner bilayer membranes with a positive potential (H+) in the intermembrane space. This organelle plays an important role in ATP production and apoptosis. To observe the mitochondria in living cells, several fluorescent dyes (such as MitoTracker® [a standard mitochondrial imager] or rhodamine 123) have been developed. However, these reagents are unstable and exhibit a wide range of emission spectra, thereby hampering double staining results. Using recombinant DNA techniques, green or red fluorescent protein (GFP or RFP)-tagged proteins are now available for multi-color labeling of mitochondria. Here, we have discussed the development of the novel mitochondrial live imagers MitoMM1/2, derivatives of ATTO565; furthermore, MitoMM1/2 are sensitive to the membrane potential, resistant to detergents, and the fluorescence of MitoMM1/2 does not overlap with green fluorescence. •MitoMM1/2 are new mitochondrial live imagers that ensure ease of operation.•MitoMM1/2 provide a narrow emission spectrum without overlapping with green emission.•MitoMM1/2 signals are resistance to detergents.