Monitoring Ferroptosis with NIR Fluorescence Probe Capable of Reversible Mitochondria Nucleus Translocation

Ferroptosis, a recently proposed form of regulated cell death, is characterized by a surge in reactive oxygen species and a subsequent depletion of glutathione. The mitochondria and nucleoli play pivotal roles in the process of ferroptosis. Therefore, monitoring the interactions between mitochondria and the nucleoli during ferroptosis is crucial for clarifying its physiological and pathological processes. In this study, we designed and synthesized the near-infrared fluorescence probe MINU, which exhibits excellent stability against biological ions and physiological pH environments. Due to its cationic structure and good DNA affinity, MINU can target both mitochondria and the nucleoli. Cell imaging demonstrates that MINU can reversibly migrate between the mitochondria and the nucleoli in response to changes in mitochondrial membrane potential. By detecting the localization and intensity of fluorescence signals, we can effectively distinguish between normal cell, apoptotic cell, and ferroptotic cell. Monitoring the interactions between mitochondria and the nucleoli allows us to more accurately appreciate the biological processes of ferroptosis.