Bioorthogonal Labeling for the Visualization of DNA and RNA in Cells

In recent years, fluorescence-based labelling of biomolecules in living cells has gained significant importance for gaining deeper insights into complex biological processes. Herein, bioorthogonal reactions represent a particularly powerful approach, as their development over the past two decades enables selective, non-disruptive labelling of biomolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids. The combination of such bioorthogonal labelling techniques with chemotherapeutic agents makes it possible to precisely track their interactions and mechanisms of action at the molecular level. This is especially valuable for studying cancer drugs that inhibit DNA replication, thereby interrupting cell division and ultimately leading to cell death. Using bioorthogonal labeling, the interactions of these substances with DNA can be visualized in real time, providing new insights into their effects on cellular processes.

Our group develops advanced bioorthogonal labeling materials based on strain-promoted azide-alkyne cycloadditions (SPAAC), inverse electron-demand Diels-Alder (IEDDA) reactions, and light-induced photoclick chemistry. In parallel, we design novel nucleic acid modifications and methods for their bioorthogonal incorporation into DNA and RNA directly within complex cellular environments.

Check out our most recent publications to explore our latest advances in bioorthogonal chemistry and nucleic acid labeling!