Erin Li L&S Biological Sciences
Cellular Acetaldehyde Sensing with Reactivity-Based Fluorescent Probe
Acetaldehyde is a highly reactive carbonyl species (RCS) found in the human body as a result of partial alcohol metabolism (1). Increased acetaldehyde levels are often associated with pathologies such as alcoholic liver disease and Alzheimers (2). Despite its toxicity, tools for monitoring acetaldehyde in live specimen are underdeveloped, and current methods rely on the processing and destruction of the intact specimen. My project aims to develop a dye-based probe that utilizes chemical reactivity with acetaldehyde to convert a homoallylamine-functionalized dye platform into its aldehyde conjugate, resulting in a shift in the excitation wavelength. This would provide a ratiometric fluorescence readout, allowing for a non-destructive, highly sensitive and selective method of monitoring acetaldehyde fluxes in living cells. This probe could then be used to study various diseases associated with increased acetaldehyde levels such as alcoholic liver disease and Alzheimers.
Message To Sponsor
Dear donor, Thank you so much for sponsoring my research project this summer! I have learned a lot about scientific research and how to handle challenges and setbacks. I have become more confident in my ability to troubleshoot and find solutions to problems, and I have also gained a better understanding of what I want to do in grad school. None of this would have been possible without your support! Thank you! Erin Li