RpH-ILV: Probe for lysosomal pH and acute LLOMe-induced membrane permeabilization in cell lines and Drosophila
2025

New Probe for Tracking Lysosomal pH and Damage

publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Cheetham-Wilkinson Izaak J., Sivalingam Bhavya, Flitton Chloe, Flottmann Franziska, Vehling Luisa, Drechsler Maik, Stojchevska Marija, Raimondi Andrea, Paululat Achim, Fröhlich Florian, Swan Laura E., Stagi Massimiliano

Primary Institution: University of Liverpool

Hypothesis

The study aims to develop a genetically encoded lysosomal pH probe, RpH-ILV, to analyze lysosomal dynamics and susceptibility to damage.

Conclusion

The RpH-ILV probe enables improved tracking of lysosomal pH and reveals that lysosomes are sensitive to damage from certain agents.

Supporting Evidence

  • The RpH-ILV probe is well tolerated by Drosophila and shows minimal plasma membrane fluorescence.
  • RpH-ILV colocalizes with lysosomal markers, indicating correct localization.
  • The probe responds similarly to pharmacological stimuli as previous lysosomal probes.
  • RpH-ILV-expressing lysosomes are more vulnerable to lysosomal damaging agents compared to R2pH-LAMP-expressing lysosomes.

Takeaway

Scientists created a new tool to see how acidic the insides of lysosomes are and how they get hurt by certain chemicals.

Methodology

The study involved developing a ratiometric genetically encoded lysosomal pH probe and testing its functionality in various cell types, including Drosophila.

Limitations

The probe may not label all functional lysosomes, as some lysosomes were found to be functional but not marked by RpH-ILV.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.0107

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1126/sciadv.adr7325

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication