Authors:
Jan L Vinkenborg, Tamara J Nicolson, Elisa A Bellomo, Melissa S Koay, Guy A Rutter, & Maarten Merkx
Summary:
We developed genetically encoded fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based sensors that display a large ratiometric change upon Zn2+ binding, have affinities that span the pico- to nanomolar range and can readily be targeted to subcellular organelles. Using this sensor toolbox we found that cytosolic Zn2+ was buffered at 0.4 nM in pancreatic cells, and we found substantially higher Zn2+ concentrations in insulin-containing secretory vesicles.
Source:
Nature Methods; 6, 737-740 (08/30/09)