ILLUMINATING MICROTUBULAR FUNCTION WITH SMALL MOLECULES: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE OF FLUORESCENT TUBULIN-BINDING PROBES

Abstract

Developing tools for the real-time visualization of tubulin, microtubules, and their dynamics has been essential for studying key cellular processes such as cell division, migration, and differentiation. In this context, fluorescent small molecule probes that bind to distinct, specific sites on microtubules have significantly advanced our understanding of tubulin dynamics and function. In addition, fluorescent probes targeting tubulin have also enabled the development of high-throughput screening assays to identify novel anti tubulin compounds. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview on currently available fluorescent molecules that bind to tubulin, detailing their chemical structure, binding site, how they were developed and how they are relevant for studying microtubule function. We also explore future directions in this field and highlight key fluorescent probes that are still lacking. Developing these tools would enable the investigation of tubulin’s diverse cellular roles in even greater depth and support the advancement of tubulin-targeted therapeutics.