In situ imaging of signaling molecule carbon monoxide in plants with a fluorescent probe

Recent Advances in Fluorescent Probe for Detecting Biorelevant Analytes during Stress in Plants

Plants are constantly exposed to various stressors that can severely hinder their growth and threaten agricultural productivity. Recent advancements in plant imaging using fluorescent probes have opened new avenues for exploring the intricate processes involved in plant stress perception and signaling. This review represents the comprehensive effort to consolidate recent advances in fluorescent probe technologies, encompassing small-molecule probes, nanoprobes, and genetically encoded indicators, as revolutionary tools for deciphering stress-induced physiological dynamics. We present a comprehensive classification of fluorescent probes designed for detecting key biomolecules involved in plant stress responses, including reactive species, phytohormones, enzymes, and other signaling molecules. By critically evaluating their design principles, practical applications, and distinct advantages over conventional analytical methods, we aim to empower plant scientists in unraveling the spatiotemporal regulation of stress signaling networks. Finally, we propose strategic directions to overcome current technical bottlenecks and maximize the potential of fluorescence-based sensing in advancing sustainable agriculture.

A Tale of Two Cities in Fluorescent Sensing of Carbon Monoxide: Probes That Detect CO and Those That Detect Only Chemically Reactive CO Donors (CORMs), but Not CO

Carbon monoxide (CO) is endogenously produced with a range of pharmacological activities. Sensitive and selective detection of CO is critical to studying its biology. Since the first report of a CO fluorescent probe in 2012, more than 100 papers on this topic have appeared. Noteworthy in such work is the widespread use of two commercially available ruthenium-carbonyl complexes (CORM-2 and CORM-3) as CO surrogates. Unfortunately, these two CORMs are chemically very reactive and preferentially release CO2 but not CO, unless in the presence of a nucleophile. As a result, there are "two tales" of the reported CO probes: those that detect CO and those that detect only the CORM used but not CO. In addition, because of their lack of reliable CO production and fast degradation in an aqueous solution, there is the question of what "detecting CORM-2 or CORM-3" really means in the context of CO research. Additionally, for applying fluorescent CO probes in detecting low levels (often nanomolar) of CO in vivo, fast reaction kinetics is a prerequisite for meaningful results. In this Perspective, we discuss in detail these issues with the understanding of the evolutionary nature of scientific discoveries and the aim of preventing further confusion.

Advances in Nanodynamic Therapy for Cancer Treatment

Nanodynamic therapy (NDT) exerts its anti-tumor effect by activating nanosensitizers to generate large amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in tumor cells. NDT enhances tumor-specific targeting and selectivity by leveraging the tumor microenvironment (TME) and mechanisms that boost anti-tumor immune responses. It also minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissues and enhances cytotoxicity in tumor cells, showing promise in cancer treatment, with significant potential. This review covers the research progress in five major nanodynamic therapies: photodynamic therapy (PDT), electrodynamic therapy (EDT), sonodynamic therapy (SDT), radiodynamic therapy (RDT), and chemodynamic therapy (CDT), emphasizing the significant role of advanced nanotechnology in the development of NDT for anti-tumor purposes. The mechanisms, effects, and challenges faced by these NDTs are discussed, along with their respective solutions for enhancing anti-tumor efficacy, such as pH response, oxygen delivery, and combined immunotherapy. Finally, this review briefly addresses challenges in the clinical translation of NDT.