Converting a Solvatochromic Fluorophore into a Protein‐Based pH Indicator for Extreme Acidity

Abstract

Live-cell pH measurements: An environment-sensitive fluorophore (green) was site-specifically introduced on HdeA, an acid-resistant chaperone showing pH-mediated conformational changes under low pH conditions. A survey of the attachment sites led to the discovery of one position on HdeA at which the attached fluorophore showed a strong fluorescence increase upon acidification.