Marked by association: techniques for proximity-dependent labeling of proteins in eukaryotic cells

Cell Mol Life Sci. 2013 Oct;70(19):3657-64. doi: 10.1007/s00018-013-1287-3. Epub 2013 Feb 19.

Abstract

Various methods have been established for the purpose of identifying and characterizing protein-protein interactions (PPIs). This diverse toolbox provides researchers with options to overcome challenges specific to the nature of the proteins under investigation. Among these techniques is a category based on proximity-dependent labeling of proteins in living cells. These can be further partitioned into either hypothesis-based or unbiased screening methods, each with its own advantages and limitations. Approaches in which proteins of interest are fused to either modifying enzymes or receptor sequences allow for hypothesis-based testing of protein proximity. Protein crosslinking and BioID (proximity-dependent biotin identification) permit unbiased screening of protein proximity for a protein of interest. Here, we evaluate these approaches and their applications in living eukaryotic cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Eukaryotic Cells / chemistry*
  • Eukaryotic Cells / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Protein Interaction Mapping / methods*
  • Proteins / chemistry*
  • Proteins / metabolism*
  • Staining and Labeling / methods*

Substances

  • Proteins