Robust and quantitative detection of RNA dynamics with fluorescence lifetime-based sensors in live mammalian cells

Abstract

Coding and non-coding ribonucleic acids (RNAs) play central roles in fundamental gene expression processes. RNA function determines its subcellular localization and interaction with other biological molecules including other RNAs and proteins. Acute cellular perturbations and disease mutations affect RNA function and hence dynamics. To unravel RNA dynamics, visualizing and tracking RNAs in live cells is critically important for a mechanistic understanding. However, robust fluorescence labels for specific RNA molecules to achieve quantitative detection and tracking in the complex cellular environment for diverse RNA species are under-developed.