Boyman Lab unveils real-time STAT biosensors
The Boyman Lab at DQBM has developed STATeLights, a new class of genetically encoded biosensors enabling continuous, high-resolution visualization of STAT signaling in live cells. Using fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM–FRET), the team designed STATeLight5A to track STAT5 activation dynamics, distinguish between wild-type and disease-associated mutants, and assess the effects of JAK–STAT inhibitors.
The biosensor also functioned in human CD4+ T cells, demonstrating its potential for studying immune signaling in physiologically relevant settings. This innovation provides a powerful tool for probing STAT biology and supports drug discovery targeting the JAK–STAT pathway.
DOI: 10.1038/s41589-025-02012-0