Technology - Bioluminscence Optical Imaging
Bioluminescence images are obtained from visible light emitted during catalytic conversion of certain molecules. Sensitive charge coupled devices are available for bioluminescence imaging.
Bioluminescence Reporter Genes & Probes
Bioluminescence reporter genes include luciferase genes that encode the Firefly luciferase (Fluc) and Renilla luciferase enzymes (Rluc). Fluc, catalyzes oxidation of D-Luciferin, in a reaction that requires ATP, Mg and Oxygen. Rluc catalyzes oxidation of Coelenterazine in a reaction that only requires oxygen. Cells expressing these luciferases can be imaged in small animals as shown below.
Bioluminescence imaging reporter genes can be used to image the following non-invasively in small animals
- Transgene expression (Gene therapy monitoring)
- Single cell microscopic imaging
- Endogenous gene expression
- Cell kinetics (Cell therapy, regenerative medicine and cancer therapy)
- Protein-protein interactions
- Signal transduction
- Pharmacodynamics, or molecular effects of external factors, such as administered therapeutic agents
Advantages of Bioluminescence Reporter Genes
- Relatively low cost
- Short duration of imaging
- Ability to image molecular events every 20-60 minutes
- Highest sensitivity for imaging in low tissue depths
Please note in vivo bioluminescence imaging may require a license from third parties.