NERNST: a genetically-encoded ratiometric non-destructive sensing tool to estimate NADP(H) redox status in bacterial, plant and animal systems.

NADP(H) is a central metabolic hub providing reducing equivalents to multiple biosynthetic, regulatory and antioxidative pathways in all living organisms. While biosensors are available to determine NADP or NADPH levels in vivo, no probe exists to estimate the NADP(H) redox status, a determinant of the cell energy availability. We describe herein the design and characterization of a genetically-encoded ratiometric biosensor, termed NERNST, able to interact with NADP(H) and estimate E.

HRG plays a central role in orchestrating heme uptake in epimastigotes.

, a heme auxotrophic parasite, can control intracellular heme content by modulating HRG expression when a free heme source is added to axenic culture. Herein, we explore the role of HRG protein in regulating the uptake of heme derived from hemoglobin in epimastigotes. It was found that the parasités endogenous HRG (protein and mRNA) responds similarly to bound (hemoglobin) and free (hemin) heme.

A new model for heme homeostasis depends on modulation of HTE protein expression.

Heme is an essential cofactor for many biological processes in aerobic organisms, which can synthesize it through a conserved pathway. , the etiological agent of Chagas disease, as well as other trypanosomatids relevant to human health, are heme auxotrophs, meaning they must import it from their mammalian hosts or insect vectors. However, how these species import and regulate heme levels is not fully defined yet.