CLEAR Technology Advances Protein Imaging Research
Researchers have developed a novel imaging platform called CLEAR that could transform how scientists visualise proteins within biological samples. The technology may improve the detection and understanding of diseases such as cancer and neurological disorders by enabling highly detailed protein mapping using a single fluorescent marker.
The Cleavable Light-Erased Antibody Reporter platform, known as CLEAR, allows researchers to visualise an unprecedented number of proteins within the same sample while maintaining high spatial resolution. Scientists believe the breakthrough could open new possibilities in disease diagnosis, biomedical research and precision medicine.
JNCASR Researchers Develop CLEAR Platform
The research team at Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research developed the imaging platform to overcome long-standing challenges in spatial protein mapping. The institute functions as an autonomous body under the Department of Science and Technology.
Proteins play a central role in biological function and remain key targets for therapies and disease diagnosis. However, scientists have struggled to create comprehensive proteomic maps showing both the identity and spatial organisation of proteins within tissues.
The CLEAR platform addresses this challenge by enabling repeated cycles of protein labelling and imaging within the same biological sample using only one fluorophore.
Light-Cleavable System Enables Repeated Imaging
The research team, led by Professor Sarit S. Agasti, designed and synthesised the CLEAR probes while also developing the imaging workflow and validating the technology across several biological systems.
In addition, researchers from the Indian Institute of Science collaborated on demonstrations involving complex immune cell systems.
Scientists introduced a light-cleavable probe system that allows repeated rounds of imaging within the same spectral window. After imaging a set of proteins, researchers apply a gentle pulse of 365 nm LED light to erase the fluorescent signal. Consequently, scientists can relabel and image additional proteins in the same sample.
The process works similarly to a chalkboard where previous markings can be erased to create space for new information. By repeating the cycle multiple times, researchers can generate highly detailed maps of proteins across cells and tissues.
Technology Could Aid Cancer And Neurological Research
Unlike existing multiplex imaging methods, CLEAR combines high multiplexing capability with speed, spatial precision and compatibility with delicate biological samples, including live cells.
Researchers said the technology has significant potential in cancer biology, immunology and neurological research, where understanding the spatial organisation of proteins remains critical.
The study describing the method was published in the journal Royal Society of Chemistry publication Chemical Science.
Scientists believe CLEAR could support future advances in precision medicine by helping researchers generate detailed molecular insights for targeted therapies. Moreover, the platform aligns with growing global efforts focused on spatial proteomics and advanced diagnostic technologies.
With inputs from Reuters