Making useful gadgets with miniaturized G proteins

J Biol Chem. 2018 May 11;293(19):7474-7475. doi: 10.1074/jbc.H118.002879.

Abstract

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) relay information from extracellular stimuli to intracellular responses in a wide range of physiological and pathological processes, but understanding their complex effects in live cells is a daunting task. In this issue of JBC, Wan et al repurpose "mini G proteins"-previously used as affinity tools for structural studies-to develop a suite of probes to visualize GPCR activation in live cells. The approach is expected to revolutionize our understanding of the spatiotemporal control and mechanisms of GPCR signaling.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • GTP-Binding Proteins / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Miniaturization*
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled
  • GTP-Binding Proteins