Elastase-activated ratiometric fluorescent probe as an indicator of inflammatory response

Abstract

The expression level of neutrophil elastase (NE) is closely related to the occurrence of inflammation. This enzyme has been identified as a research target for the development of anti-inflammatory drugs and for the early diagnosis and treatment of many diseases. This work developed the first near-infrared ratiometric fluorescence sensor (TMNF) for monitoring and imaging NE in vivo and in vitro. Cell imaging results showed that NE was highly expressed in cells treated with pro-inflammatory factors, whereas NE activity was significantly reduced after pretreatment with the enzyme inhibitor. Relevant experiments have shown that inflammation can lead to increased expression of NE in vivo. The imaging of the probe in inflammation mouse shows excellent practicality, making the probe an effective tool for the early diagnosis and treatment of diseases related to inflammatory lesions.