A novel mitotimer reporter gene for mitochondrial content, structure, stress, and damage in vivo

Abstract

Background: Mitochondrial health is difficult to assess in vivo. Results: We have generated a reporter gene, MitoTimer, which targets mitochondria, and fluoresces green and shifts to red when oxidized, for assessment of mitochondrial content, structure, stress, and damage under physiological and pathologicalconditions. Conclusion: MitoTimer is useful for assessment of mitochondrial health in vivo. Significance: MitoTimer could advance mitochondrial research in multiple disciplines ©2014 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.