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Genetically-encoded Molecular Probes to Study G Protein-coupled Receptors
Published on: September 13, 2013
Miniaturized GPCR signaling studies in 1536-well format
S Shultz1, T Worzella, A Gallagher
1Promega Corporation, Madison, WI 53711, USA. sarah.shultz@promega.com
Journal of Biomolecular Techniques : JBT
|January 13, 2009
Summary
This study optimized a bioluminescent assay for screening drug candidates targeting G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). The high-throughput, miniaturized assay effectively identifies potential therapeutics by measuring cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) regulate vital physiological processes and are key targets for novel drug development.
- Accurate and efficient assays are crucial for accelerating the discovery of drug candidates that modulate GPCR activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize and validate the Promega cAMP-Glo Assay in a 1536-well format for high-throughput screening (HTS) of GPCR-targeted compounds.
- To assess the assay's robustness and applicability in primary and secondary screening for drug discovery.
Main Methods:
- Homogenous bioluminescent assay using Promega cAMP-Glo technology.
- Integration with Labcyte Echo 555 acoustic liquid handler and Deerac Fluidics Equator HTS reagent dispenser for miniaturized screening.
- Optimization and validation of the assay in 1536-well plates for GPCR compound screening.
Main Results:
- Successful optimization and validation of the cAMP-Glo assay in a 1536-well format.
- Demonstrated utility in primary screening of known GPCR agonists and antagonists.
- Confirmed primary screening hits through robust secondary screening assays.
Conclusions:
- The optimized, miniaturized GPCR assay enables effective and efficient screening of potential drug candidates.
- This high-throughput approach accelerates the identification of novel therapeutics targeting GPCRs.
- The validated assay provides a robust platform for drug discovery initiatives focused on GPCR modulation.

