Can we see PIP 3 and hydrogen peroxide with a single probe?
A genetically encoded sensor for parallel measurements of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activity and hydrogen peroxide (H 2O 2) levels (termed PIP-SHOW) was developed. Upon elevation of local phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP 3) concentration, the sensor translocates from the cytosol to the plasma membrane, while a ratiometric excitation change rapidly and simultaneously reports changes in the concentration of H 2O 2. The dynamics of PIP 3 and H 2O 2 generation were monitored in platelet-derived growth factor-stimulated fibroblasts and in T-lymphocytes after formation of an immunological synapse. We suggest that PIP-SHOW can serve as a prototype for many fluorescent sensors with combined readouts. © Copyright 2012, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.