Fluorescence imaging of dopamine in living cells triggered by unique coupling reactions

Abstract

Background

Dopamine (DA) is a significant neurotransmitter and catecholamine molecule in the mammalian brain. It plays a crucial role in perception, cognition, central nervous system regulation, and hormone secretion. The detection of DA levels in living systems is a vital aspect of the research and early diagnosis of neurological disorders.

Results

In this study, we achieved an effective fluorescence generation specific to DA under physiological pH conditions by coupling the DA detection reaction to the HClO oxidation reaction. This method has been used for the detection of DA in cells, as well as for the visualization of DA levels in cellular models of inflammation and depression.

Significance

This is the first time that utilizes an organic fluorescent molecular probe to detect DA in living cells.