The optical probe, iAChSnFR-BTX, combines an intensity-based acetylcholine fluorescent sensor with α-bungarotoxin, which binds irreversibly to extracellular nicotinic receptor domains. This configuration allows for rapid and specific labeling at synaptic sites, enabling real-time monitoring of neurotransmitter release with the resolution of individual vesicle events. It bypasses traditional gene expression or viral transduction methods, making it adaptable for use across a variety of vertebrate models. With its capacity to illuminate neuromuscular junctions and potentially other synapses, this probe offers a robust tool for investigating synaptic physiology, plasticity, and disease mechanisms linked to acetylcholine signaling.
Description
What sets this technology apart is its toxin-based binding strategy, which simplifies targeting and enhances specificity compared to conventional approaches. The irreversible attachment via α-bungarotoxin ensures consistent localization even in complex biological systems, while the fluorescent sensor provides detailed visualization of synaptic activity. This unique combination allows researchers to study the dynamic processes of neurotransmitter release at unprecedented resolution and could transform studies into neuromuscular diseases, neural plasticity, and various neurological conditions, thereby opening new avenues for both basic research and therapeutic intervention.
Applications
- NMJ imaging reagent
- Synaptic monitoring tool
- Drug screening assays
- Neurological disease research
Advantages
- Rapid and specific targeting of nicotinic receptor synapses through irreversible toxin binding.
- High-resolution monitoring of neurotransmitter release at the single vesicle level.
- Bypasses gene expression and viral transduction methods for faster, broadly applicable use across species.
- Versatile applicability in neuromuscular, central nervous system, and other acetylcholine-related research areas.
Enables advanced study of synaptic physiology, plasticity, and various neurological and systemic diseases.
IP Status
Research Tool
