Reporting Cell Pyroptosis via a Light - Driven Mitochondria-to-Nucleus Migration Probe

Abstract

Mitochondria and the nucleus stand as the only two organelles within the cell endowed with independent genomes. Their intricate relationship and pivotal roles in metabolic regulation, stress responses, and cell death render the cascade-style observation of their translocation essential for fathoming biological processes and gauging cell status. This research presents a novel iridium complex, incorporating a functional ligand, α, α, γ - terpyridine-tetraphenylene (Tpy-Tpe). This complex exhibits light-induced cascade migration from mitochondria to the nucleus while concurrently reporting the onset of pyroptosis. Leveraging the outstanding integrated diagnostic and therapeutic attributes of metal complexes, this design strategy offers a new perspective for real-time cascade organelle imaging and enhanced photodynamic therapy.