This research introduces CyCLoPs, an innovative biological sensor designed to visualize and identify cells that respond to cytokines in living organisms. By converting the physical binding of a cytokine to its receptor into a fluorescent signal, the platform allows scientists to track immune activity with high spatial and temporal precision. The study demonstrates the tool's effectiveness by mapping IL-17A responses in the gut following bacterial colonization and identifying IFN-γ signals in tumor-infiltrating T cells. These findings reveal that cells exposed to high levels of interferon within tumors often display reduced effector functions and specific genetic markers like CD36 and LEP-R. Ultimately, this technology offers a powerful method for observing how immune signaling orchestrates complex physiological outcomes in both health and disease.

References:

• In vivo detection of immune responses via cytokine activity labelingLu, Guangqing et al.Cell, Volume 0, Issue 0