Recent advances in Golgi-targeted small-molecule fluorescent probes

As an indispensable organelle of most eukaryotic cells, Golgi not only has the function of receiving, modifying and transporting proteins and lipids, but also participates in important physiological processes such as stress response, autophagy and apoptosis. Fluorescent probe method has become a “star” tool to study organelles and their microenvironment because of its real-time and non-destructive advantages. In recent years, it has been reported that more and more new Golgi-targeted probes play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as cancer, nervous system diseases, hypertension, and acute kidney injury. However, compared with the development of other important organelles (e.g. mitochondria and lysosomes), the development of Golgi targeted small molecule probes is still in its infancy. In order to increase the relevant research on Golgi, the development of new Golgi targeted probes is challenging and necessary. This review first introduces the biological concepts related to the Golgi apparatus, and then gives a detailed introduction to the reported fluorescent probes targeting the Golgi apparatus according to the different target groups, including the recognition mechanism, labeling mechanism, biological imaging and application in related diseases. Finally, we summarize the specific challenges faced by the current Golgi-targeted small molecule fluorescent probes and the prospects for future development. We hope that this review can not only provide a reference for beginners, but also provide general reference ideas for the development of the next generation of Golgi-targeted probes, and promote its wider application in practice.