In situ visualization of the cellular uptake and sub-cellular distribution of mussel oligosaccharides

Single-organelle visualization tracking natural glycosaminoglycans within mitochondria-lysosome crosstalk for inflammatory homeostasis

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), as natural products with diverse biological activities, play a significant role in regulating inflammatory homeostasis. Nevertheless, the mechanism underlying their intracellular anti-inflammatory properties remains unclear. Herein, we propose a single-organelle visualization tracking framework, leveraging an advanced fluorescent imaging technology combined with labeling methods to dynamically trace the subcellular regulatory mechanisms of GAGs in eliminating inflammatory markers, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS). By utilizing conventional fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled GAGs, we successfully achieved in situ single-organelle visualization of the subcellular localization and intracellular activities of GAGs. Our findings revealed that GAGs enter lysosomes and increase their number and activity, with chondroitin sulfate (CS) exhibiting particularly prominent effects. Significantly, we visually depict that CS-loaded lysosomes selectively cleave ROS-enriched terminal mitochondria, driving mitochondrial fission and reprogramming. These results corroborate that CS regulate mitochondria-lysosome crosstalk to control mitochondrial quality, thereby maintaining intracellular inflammatory homeostasis. Collectively, our work presents an evidence on the single-organelle visualization and regulatory mechanism of GAGs, thereby offering novel perspectives and avenues for researching other natural products.

Therapeutic Modulation of the Microbiome in Oncology: Current Trends and Future Directions

Cancer is a predominant cause of mortality worldwide, necessitating the development of innovative therapeutic techniques. The human microbiome, particularly the gut microbiota, has become a significant element in cancer research owing to its essential role in sustaining health and influencing disease progression. This review examines the microbiome's makeup and essential functions, including immunological modulation and metabolic regulation, which may be evaluated using sophisticated methodologies such as metagenomics and 16S rRNA sequencing. The microbiome influences cancer development by promoting inflammation, modulating the immune system, and producing carcinogenic compounds. Dysbiosis, or microbial imbalance, can undermine the epithelial barrier and facilitate cancer. The microbiome influences chemotherapy and radiation results by modifying drug metabolism, either enhancing or reducing therapeutic efficacy and contributing to side effects and toxicity. Comprehending these intricate relationships emphasises the microbiome's significance in oncology and accentuates the possibility for microbiome-targeted therapeutics. Contemporary therapeutic approaches encompass the utilisation of probiotics and dietary components to regulate the microbiome, enhance treatment efficacy, and minimise unwanted effects. Advancements in research indicate that personalised microbiome-based interventions, have the potential to transform cancer therapy, by providing more effective and customised treatment alternatives. This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the microbiome's influence on the onset and treatment of cancer, while emphasising current trends and future possibilities for therapeutic intervention.

Molecular probes for tracking lipid droplet membrane dynamics

Lipid droplets (LDs) feature a unique monolayer lipid membrane that has not been extensively studied due to the lack of suitable molecular probes that are able to distinguish this membrane from the LD lipid core. In this work, we present a three-pronged molecular probe design strategy that combines lipophilicity-based organelle targeting with microenvironment-dependent activation and design an LD membrane labeling pro-probe called LDM. Upon activation by the HClO/ClO- microenvironment that surrounds LDs, LDM pro-probe releases LDM-OH probe that binds to LD membrane proteins thus enabling visualization of the ring-like LD membrane. By utilizing LDM, we identify the dynamic mechanism of LD membrane contacts and their protein accumulation parameters. Taken together, LDM represents the first molecular probe for imaging LD membranes in live cells to the best of our knowledge, and represents an attractive tool for further investigations into the specific regulatory mechanisms with LD-related metabolism diseases and drug screening.

Molecular probes for super-resolution imaging of drug dynamics

Super-resolution molecular probes (SRMPs) are essential tools for visualizing drug dynamics within cells, transcending the resolution limits of conventional microscopy. In this review, we provide an overview of the principles and design strategies of SRMPs, emphasizing their role in accurately tracking drug molecules. By illuminating the intricate processes of drug distribution, diffusion, uptake, and metabolism at a subcellular and molecular level, SRMPs offer crucial insights into therapeutic interventions. Additionally, we explore the practical applications of super-resolution imaging in disease treatment, highlighting the significance of SRMPs in advancing our understanding of drug action. Finally, we discuss future perspectives, envisioning potential advancements and innovations in this field. Overall, this review serves to inform and practitioners about the utility of SRMPs in driving innovation and progress in pharmacology, providing valuable insights for drug development and optimization.