Firefly-style bioluminescent probe monitors internal organs
12 May 2021
Stock image. The probe replicates the process that causes bioluminescence in fireflies (Credit: Shutterstock)
The biochemical reaction that gives fireflies their glow has been replicated in a medical probe to help monitor the health of internal organs.
An international team of researchers at the University of Missouri developed the low cost, portable medical imaging device, which could reduce the need for more invasive testing.
Potential uses include developing better treatments for cancer, diabetes and infectious diseases, said corresponding author and associate professor of chemistry Elena Goun. It could also monitor various metabolic functions, such as gut health, in both animals and humans.