Quantitative Analysis of Membrane Receptor Trafficking Manipulated by Optogenetic Tools

Membrane receptors play a crucial role in transmitting external signals inside cells. Signal molecule-bound receptors activate multiple downstream pathways, the dynamics of which are modulated by intracellular trafficking. A significant contribution of β-arrestin to intracellular trafficking has been suggested, but the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. Here, we describe a protocol for manipulating β-arrestin-regulated membrane receptor trafficking using photo-induced dimerization of cryptochrome-2 from Arabidopsis thaliana and its binding partner CIBN. Additionally, the protocol guides analytical methods to quantify the changes in localization and modification of membrane receptors during trafficking.