Automated image analysis of FRET signals for subcellular cAMP quantification

Methods Mol Biol. 2015:1294:59-70. doi: 10.1007/978-1-4939-2537-7_5.

Abstract

A variety of FRET probes have been developed to examine cAMP localization and dynamics in single cells. These probes offer a readily accessible approach to measure localized cAMP signals. However, given the low signal-to-noise ratio of most FRET probes and the dynamic nature of the intracellular environment, there have been marked limitations in the ability to use FRET probes to study localized signaling events within the same cell. Here, we outline a methodology to dissect kinetics of cAMP-mediated FRET signals in single cells using automated image analysis approaches. We additionally extend these approaches to the analysis of subcellular regions. These approaches offer an unique opportunity to assess localized cAMP kinetics in an unbiased, quantitative fashion.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biosensing Techniques / methods
  • Cyclic AMP / metabolism*
  • Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer / methods
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / methods*
  • Kinetics
  • Signal-To-Noise Ratio
  • Software

Substances

  • Cyclic AMP