Dihydropyridine Fluorophores Allow for Specific Detection of Human Antibodies in Serum

Antigen recognition by antibodies plays an important role in human biology and in the development of diseases. This interaction provides a basis for multiple diagnostic assays and is a guide for treatments. We have developed dihydropyridine-based fluorophores that form stable complexes with double-stranded DNA and upon recognition of the antibodies to DNA (anti-DNA) provide an optical response.

The fluorophores described herein have advantageous optical properties compared to those of the currently available dyes making them valuable for research and clinical diagnostics. By studying a series of novel fluorophores, crucial parameters for the design were established, providing the required sensitivity and specificity in the detection of antibodies.

Using these DNA–fluorophore complexes in a direct immunofluorescence assay, antibodies to DNA are specifically detected in 80 patients diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, systemic lupus erythematosus. Positivity indicated by emission change of α-(4′-O-methoxyphenyl)-2-furyl dihydropyridine strongly correlates with other disease biomarkers and autoimmune arthritis.