Available Technology
A bioorthogonal probe for imaging cholesterol in living cells
Technology:
A novel technology utilizing an alkaline analog of cholesterol, known as eChol
Markets Addressed
Cholesterol is a prevalent sterol molecule found throughout mammalian cell membranes and various biosynthetic pathways. However, it is probably best known for being a risk factor for heart disease, the number one cause of death for Americans. Too much cholesterol in the blood can promote the hardening of the arteries, leading to heart attack or stroke.
Despite hundreds of years of cholesterol research, one thing that has eluded scientists is imaging cholesterol in vivo using a functional cholesterol molecule. Current imaging methods rely on fluorescent derivatives that are not fully functional or lack suitable fluorescent properties.
Innovations and Advantages
This invention is a novel technology utilizing an alkaline analog of cholesterol, known as eChol, that can react to emit fluorescence when coupled with azide Cholesterol, producing a highly sensitive and specific image of cholesterol in living cells, without harming thier morphology or function.
The analog contains an ethynyl group that can react with a fluorescent azide to produce a fluorescent eChol. This can be directly imaged, with high sensitivity and specificity, using standard fluorescent microscopy. This means that cholesterol can be directly imaged rather than relying on biochemical studies to determine its location. It will also improve future biochemical studies, as the alkaline tag can be used for purifications. Being able to image cholesterol in normal and diseased cells will further cardiovascular disease research. Further, this technology may be applicable as a diagnostic tool in patients.
Additional Information
This technology is available for worldwide, exclusive licensing and/or a collaborative research program with the Salic laboratory
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Inventor(s):
Jao, Cindy J
Salic, Adrian
Categories:
For further information, please contact:
Grant Zimmermann, Director of Business Development
(617) 495-3067
Reference Harvard Case #4271