Grant: Canada Research Chairs

Despite the ongoing emergence of novel therapeutics, properly treating patients is frequently hindered by an accurate diagnosis. The proposed research develops fluorophores and fluorescent assays to detect diseases, assess drug therapies, and further understand complex biological processes. Direct visualization is pivotal to our understanding of biological processes. The single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) breakthrough has significantly enhanced spatial resolution over conventional microscopy, enabling unprecedented nanoscale resolution. Fluorophores are the crux of SMLM imaging techniques. Therefore, the comprehension of biological processes is intimately connected to the challenging task of designing stable fluorescent reporter molecules. Despite remarkable progress in SMLM, further advancement requires new fluorophores and techniques to push the limits of visualization. Dr. Lovell’s research program tackles these challenges with SMLM by developing fluorescent tools and probes to gain a clearer understanding of complex biological processes at the molecular level. Indirect bulk assays are used to evaluate novel drug therapies, yet crucial information remains hidden in the bulk population. SMLM is poised to unveil dynamic information that is hidden in bulk experiments. This proposal embodies innovation by offering a fresh approach and perspective on protein-drug interactions. Traditional planar fluorophores for biological detection, discovered over a century ago, are being replaced by Dr. Lovell's novel approach utilizing unique macrocyclic fluorophores. These robust fluorophores offer properties unattainable with planar scaffolds, expanding the available chemical space. By developing new and improved fluorophores, Dr. Lovell’s team will establish the next generation of SMLM techniques. Ultimately, these research endeavors shed light on the intricate motions and interactions of individual biomolecules within cells, contributing to a more profound understanding of molecular-level complexities in biology. This work contributes to development of targeted and effective strategies for combating and diagnosing disease, thereby safeguarding the wellbeing of the Canadian people.