A Near-Infrared Fluorescent Probe for Dynamic Monitoring of Superoxide Anions for Early Diagnosis of Cuproptosis-Mediated Acute Kidney Injury

Abstract

Copper serves an essential trace element in the human body, playing an indispensable role in various physiological processes. Cuproptosis, a recently discovered form of copper dependent programmed cell death, has emerged as a significant factor in the pathogenesis of several diseases. Acute kidney injury (AKI), as a high mortality disease, has attracted widespread attention. However, the precise mechanisms underlying the interplay between cuproptosis and AKI remain largely elusive. Here, we report a superoxide anion (O₂^•–) activated near-infrared fluorescent probe for investigating the relationship between cuproptosis and AKI, and achieving early diagnosis of AKI and providing a new approach for its treatment. This probe can quickly recognize O₂^•– and exhibits high specificity and stability. Accurate detection and imaging of exogenous and endogenous O₂^•– have been successfully achieved through this probe. In addition, the relationship between cuproptosis and ischemia-reperfusion-induced AKI was further studied through the fluctuation of O₂^•– levels, revealing that the cuproptosis process is closely related to AKI. Inhibiting cuproptosis can effectively weaken AKI and provide new strategies for the treatment of AKI. Furthermore, compared to typical clinical testing methods such as blood urea nitrogen or serum creatinine detection, this probe can quickly monitor the occurrence of AKI. Overall, this exploration provides some guidance for the diagnosis and related treatment of cuproptosis mediated AKI disease.