Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Genetic and Biochemical Approaches for In Vivo and In Vitro Assessment of Protein Oligomerization: The Ryanodine Receptor Case Study
Published on: July 27, 2016
Adenosine A(2A) receptors assemble into higher-order oligomers at the plasma membrane
Pierre-Alexandre Vidi1, Jiji Chen, Joseph M K Irudayaraj
1Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2051, United States.
Abstract:
Oligomerization of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) is known to play important roles in regulating receptor pharmacology and function. Whereas many bivalent GPCR interactions have been described, the stoichiometry and localization of GPCR oligomers are largely unknown. We have used bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) to study adenosine A(2A) receptor (A(2A)R) oligomerization. The data suggest specificity of the A(2A)R/A(2A)R interaction monitored by BiFC and proper sub-cellular localization of tagged receptors. Moreover, using a novel approach combining fluorescence resonance energy transfer and BiFC, we found that at least three A(2A) receptors assemble into higher-order oligomers at the plasma membrane in Cath.A differentiated neuronal cells.
Related Concept Videos
Adrenergic Receptors: ɑ Subtype
Adrenaline ≥ Noradrenaline >> Isoprenaline
α-adrenoceptors are further divided into α1 and α2-adrenoceptors.
α1-Adrenoceptors: These receptors are located postsynaptically on the effector organs and cause constriction of smooth muscle mediated by activation of phospholipase C—inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate...
Adrenergic Receptors: β Subtype
Isoprenaline > Adrenaline > Noradrenaline
Neurotransmitter binding to these receptors causes activation of adenylyl cyclase resulting in increased concentrations of cAMP and modulation of calcium ion channels within the cell. They are further classified into β1, β2, and β3 subtypes.
β1-adrenoceptors: β1-adrenoceptors have equal affinities for...
Adrenergic Receptors (Adrenoceptors): Classification
α-Adrenoceptors
α-Adrenoceptors are classified into two main subtypes: α1 and α2. The α1 adrenoceptors, which are found on postsynaptic...
Adrenergic Agonists: Chemistry and Structure-Activity Relationship
Aromatic ring substitutions: Substituting the aromatic ring with –OH groups at positions 3 and 4 yields catecholamines (e.g., epinephrine), which have a high affinity for adrenoceptors. Hydrogen bonding between –OH groups and receptors enhances adrenergic activity.
Separation of the aromatic...
G-Protein Gated Ion Channels
Sensory organs,...
Activation and Inactivation of G Proteins

