Progress in an Improved Synthesis of ROVI: A Novel Sensor for Organelle-Localized Microviscosity in Cells
Authors: Ramneek Kaur, Aaliyah C. Muhammad
Faculty Supervisor: Marc Anderson
Department: Chemistry & Biochemistry
Rotor-based organelle viscosity imaging (ROVI) is a methodology that enables real-time quantitative mapping of cell microviscosity. ROVI utilizes genetically encoded probes covalently linked to environment-sensitive dyes called molecular rotors to enable real-time quantitative mapping of cell micro viscosity through fluorescence lifetime imaging. This project focuses on chemical synthesis of ROVI, by gradually assembling the rotor molecule through a series of chemical reactions using inexpensive reagents. Each intermediate was rigorously analyzed using NMR, LCMS, and TLC to confirm identity and purity of each product. We aim to optimize the production process of the rotor, seeking cost-effective methods that will enable wider applications of this innovative imaging technique for elucidating cellular dynamics and phenomena related to micro-viscosity.