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Detection of Isolated Mitochondria-Associated ER Membranes Using the Sigma-1 Receptor

Abasha Lewis1, Shang-Yi Tsai1, Tsung-Ping Su2

  • 1Cellular Pathobiology Section, IRP, DHHS, NIDA, NIH, 333 Cassell Drive, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.

Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|November 11, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Researchers identified the sigma-1 receptor as a reliable marker for the mitochondria-associated ER membrane (MAM). This discovery aids in isolating and studying this crucial cellular structure involved in vital physiological functions.

Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • The mitochondria-associated ER membrane (MAM) is a critical cellular structure involved in numerous physiological processes.
  • A specific and reliable marker for isolating the MAM is currently lacking.
  • Understanding MAM function requires precise methods for its isolation and study.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To propose and validate the sigma-1 receptor as a specific marker for the MAM.
  • To provide a detailed methodology for MAM preparation and purification using the sigma-1 receptor.
  • To demonstrate the broad applicability of the sigma-1 receptor as a MAM marker across different cell types.

Main Methods:

  • Utilizing the sigma-1 receptor, a membrane-bound ER chaperone, as a targeting molecule.
  • Developing and detailing protocols for the preparation and purification of MAM fractions.
  • Employing diverse cell models, including peripheral and neuronal cells, for validation.

Main Results:

  • The sigma-1 receptor was successfully employed as a marker for MAM isolation.
  • Detailed procedures for MAM preparation and purification were established.
  • The efficacy of the sigma-1 receptor as a MAM marker was confirmed in various cellular contexts.

Conclusions:

  • The sigma-1 receptor is a highly suitable and unique marker for the MAM.
  • This method facilitates the isolation and study of MAMs, advancing research into their physiological roles.
  • The proposed marker offers a valuable tool for cell biology and neuroscience research.
Keywords:
ChaperoneEndoplasmic reticulumFractionationMAMMitochondriaSDS/PAGE electrophoresisSigma-1 receptor

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