Researchers at JNCASR have developed the innovative ‘CLEAR’ protein imaging platform that enables high-resolution mapping of multiple proteins in biological samples, offering major breakthroughs for cancer, neurological disorders and precision medicine research.

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• Scientists at the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research developed the new ‘CLEAR’ technology for advanced protein imaging in biological research.
• The CLEAR platform stands for Cleavable Light-Erased Antibody Reporter and enables repeated protein imaging within the same biological sample.
• The technology helps scientists visualize and map a large number of proteins using a single fluorescent marker system.
• Researchers stated that the platform overcomes major limitations faced in conventional spatial protein mapping techniques.
• The imaging system uses special light-cleavable probes that allow fluorescent signals to be erased using 365 nm LED light after every imaging cycle.
• Scientists can repeatedly label, erase and re-image different proteins in the same cell or tissue sample with high precision.
• The technology was developed under the leadership of researcher Sarit S. Agasti at JNCASR with collaboration from researchers at the Indian Institute of Science.
• Researchers compared the process to a reusable chalkboard where protein images can be erased and recreated multiple times.
• The CLEAR platform supports high-resolution and high-plex imaging across single cells, tissues and complex biological systems.
• Scientists believe the technology could significantly improve cancer biology, immunology and neurobiological research capabilities.
• The imaging platform may also help in early disease detection, immune system analysis and understanding cellular behaviour in greater detail.
• Researchers said the technology could support future precision medicine and personalised treatment strategies through detailed molecular analysis.
• The findings of the study were officially published in the Royal Society of Chemistry journal Chemical Science.