Genetically encoded FRET sensors to monitor intracellular Zn2+ homeostasis.

Vinkenborg, Jan L; Nicolson, Tamara J; Bellomo, Elisa A; Koay, Melissa S; Rutter, Guy A; Merkx, Maarten · Nat Methods · 2009

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

We developed genetically encoded fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based sensors that display a large ratiometric change upon Zn(2+) binding, have affinities that span the pico- to nanomolar range and can readily be targeted to subcellular organelles. Using this sensor toolbox we found that cytosolic Zn(2+) was buffered at 0.4 nM in pancreatic beta cells, and we found substantially higher Zn(2+) concentrations in insulin-containing secretory vesicles.

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