Genetically encoded fluorescent sensors reveal dynamic regulation of NADPH metabolism

Nat Methods. 2017 Jul;14(7):720-728. doi: 10.1038/nmeth.4306. Epub 2017 Jun 5.

Abstract

Reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) is essential for biosynthetic reactions and antioxidant functions; however, detection of NADPH metabolism in living cells remains technically challenging. We develop and characterize ratiometric, pH-resistant, genetically encoded fluorescent indicators for NADPH (iNap sensors) with various affinities and wide dynamic range. iNap sensors enabled quantification of cytosolic and mitochondrial NADPH pools that are controlled by cytosolic NAD+ kinase levels and revealed cellular NADPH dynamics under oxidative stress depending on glucose availability. We found that mammalian cells have a strong tendency to maintain physiological NADPH homeostasis, which is regulated by glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and AMP kinase. Moreover, using the iNap sensors we monitor NADPH fluctuations during the activation of macrophage cells or wound response in vivo. These data demonstrate that the iNap sensors will be valuable tools for monitoring NADPH dynamics in live cells and gaining new insights into cell metabolism.

MeSH terms

  • AMP-Activated Protein Kinases / genetics
  • AMP-Activated Protein Kinases / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Cell Survival
  • Gene Expression Regulation / physiology*
  • Glucose
  • Homeostasis
  • Humans
  • Luminescent Proteins / chemistry
  • Luminescent Proteins / genetics
  • Luminescent Proteins / metabolism*
  • Mice
  • Models, Molecular
  • NADP / metabolism*
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Protein Binding
  • Protein Conformation
  • Protein Domains
  • Protein Engineering

Substances

  • Luminescent Proteins
  • NADP
  • AMP-Activated Protein Kinases
  • Glucose