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Engineering, applications, and future perspectives of GPCR-based genetically encoded fluorescent indicators for
Valentin Lu Rohner1, Paul J Lamothe-Molina1, Tommaso Patriarchi1,2
1Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
Journal of Neurochemistry
|January 30, 2024
Summary
This review covers genetically encoded fluorescent indicators (GEFIs) for G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). It details their development, engineering, applications, and future directions for improved biosensing.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are crucial cell surface receptors involved in numerous physiological processes.
- Genetically encoded fluorescent indicators (GEFIs) offer powerful tools for real-time monitoring of GPCR activity in living cells.
- Understanding GPCR signaling is vital for developing targeted therapeutics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of GPCR-based GEFIs.
- To discuss the structural components, engineering strategies, and diverse applications of these indicators.
- To highlight current limitations and future prospects in the field.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on GPCR-based GEFIs.
- Analysis of indicator design principles, including sensing and reporting domains.
- Compilation of diverse application examples from published studies.
Main Results:
- GPCR-based GEFIs integrate specific GPCRs with fluorescent proteins to report receptor activation.
- Engineering strategies focus on optimizing the sensing domain (GPCR) and reporting domain (cpFP).
- These indicators have been successfully applied across various biological contexts to study GPCR function.
Conclusions:
- GPCR-based GEFIs are versatile tools for studying GPCRs with significant potential.
- Further advancements in engineering, screening, and spectral diversity will enhance their utility.
- Addressing current limitations and misconceptions is key for broader adoption and application.
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