High-throughput analyses of IP3 receptor behavior

High-throughput functional assays of IP3-evoked Ca2+ release

This protocol describes procedures for high-throughput functional analyses of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs) in permeabilized cells. The methods are applicable to native IP3Rs in a variety of cells and to recombinant IP3Rs stably expressed in DT40 cells in which gene disruption has abolished expression of endogenous IP3Rs. A low-affinity Ca(2+)-indicator (Mag-Fluo-4) trapped within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of permeabilized cells is used to report changes in luminal free Ca(2+) concentration. A fluorescence plate-reader equipped to allow automated additions permits rapid measurements of the Ca(2+) release evoked by IP3R. The procedure can be completed in 2-3 h.

High-throughput fluorescence polarization assay of ligand binding to IP3 receptors

Fluorescence polarization (FP) allows quantification of the binding of a small fluorescent ligand to a larger protein because the free ligand rotates more rapidly than the bound form. This protocol describes an FP assay for the binding of fluorescein-labeled inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) to amino-terminal fragments of the IP3 receptor at different temperatures and in the presence of competing ligands. The method requires fluorescein-labeled IP3 and a plate-reader capable of FP measurements. The assay can measure low-affinity interactions in real time, it avoids use of radioactive materials, is nondestructive, and can resolve changes in Gibbs free energy (ΔG°), enthalpy (ΔH°), and entropy (ΔS°) that occur with ligand binding. It is applicable to any purified protein for which a fluorescent ligand is available. After optimization, the procedure can be completed in 1-6 h.