Three Mutations Convert the Selectivity of a Protein Sensor from Nicotinic Agonists to S-Methadone for Use in Cells, Organelles, and Biofluids

J Am Chem Soc. 2022 May 18;144(19):8480-8486. doi: 10.1021/jacs.2c02323. Epub 2022 Apr 21.

Abstract

We report a reagentless, intensity-based S-methadone fluorescent sensor, iS-methadoneSnFR, consisting of a circularly permuted GFP inserted within the sequence of a mutated bacterial periplasmic binding protein (PBP). We evolved a previously reported nicotine-binding PBP to become a selective S-methadone-binding sensor, via three mutations in the PBP's second shell and hinge regions. iS-methadoneSnFR displays the necessary sensitivity, kinetics, and selectivity─notably enantioselectivity against R-methadone─for biological applications. Robust iS-methadoneSnFR responses in human sweat and saliva and mouse serum enable diagnostic uses. Expression and imaging in mammalian cells demonstrate that S-methadone enters at least two organelles and undergoes acid trapping in the Golgi apparatus, where opioid receptors can signal. This work shows a straightforward strategy in adapting existing PBPs to serve real-time applications ranging from subcellular to personal pharmacokinetics.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Mammals / metabolism
  • Methadone
  • Mice
  • Mutation
  • Nicotinic Agonists*
  • Organelles / metabolism
  • Periplasmic Binding Proteins*

Substances

  • Nicotinic Agonists
  • Periplasmic Binding Proteins
  • Methadone