Mitochrial Transcription via Click Chemistry ๐ฌ✨
Mitochondrial transcription plays a central role in cellular energy production ⚡, regulating the expression of genes encoded by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Traditionally, in vitro transcription assays relied on radioactive labeling to track newly synthesized RNA ๐งช. While effective, radiation-based methods pose safety risks, require specialized facilities, and generate hazardous waste. Today, innovative non-radioactive approaches are transforming how researchers study mitochondrial gene expression with improved safety and efficiency. A breakthrough approach uses click-chemistry–derived detection methods ๐ฌ✨ to label nascent RNA molecules without radioactive isotopes. In this strategy, modified nucleotides containing bioorthogonal chemical groups are incorporated during transcription. These groups then react selectively through “click” reactions, enabling precise tagging with fluorescent probes or affinity labels ๐ฏ. This allows rapid visualization, quantification, and imaging of m...