Fig. 1: Composition and action mode of Cre-UCNPs. | Nature Communications

Fig. 1: Composition and action mode of Cre-UCNPs.

From: Efficient spatially targeted gene editing using a near-infrared activatable protein-conjugated nanoparticle for brain applications

Fig. 1: Composition and action mode of Cre-UCNPs.The alternative text for this image may have been generated using AI.

a Schematic representation of Cre-UCNPs. Initially, the amine groups of silanized UCNPs were reacted with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) while the azide groups were used for the immobilization of NLS-Cre recombinase through a photo-cleavable linker (PCL). NLS is a nuclear localization signal. Cre-UCNPs had approximately 60 molecules of HCQ and 4 molecules of Cre recombinase per NP. Upon irradiation with a 980 nm NIR light, the UCNP core emits light in the UV range. PCL is cleaved by the 340 nm radiation emitted from UCNP and releases the enzyme from the NP. b Gene edition mediated by Cre-UCNPs. Cre-UCNPs were internalized by cells through endocytosis. HCQ present in the NP has a lysosome inhibitory effect and assists on the release from the endosomal compartments. Upon NIR activation, Cre recombinase is released, diffuses to the nucleus with the help of NLS sequence and induces recombination. Adapted from images obtained from Servier Medical Art by Servier (http://smart.servier.com), licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License, and from RCSB Protein Data Bank (doi: 10.2210/pdb1q3v/pdb) using the 3D View tool.

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