GPR Recombinant Proteins

G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPRs) are a large family of membrane proteins involved in transmitting signals from the outside to the inside of cells. They play crucial roles in various physiological processes, including sensory perception, immune response, and neurotransmission. Recombinant GPR proteins are produced using advanced biotechnological methods to study their structure, function, and potential as therapeutic targets.

Production Process

• Gene Cloning: The gene encoding the specific GPR is cloned into an expression vector suitable for the chosen host system, typically mammalian cells or yeast to ensure proper post-translational modifications and membrane insertion.
• Expression in Host Cells: The recombinant vector is introduced into host cells, which are cultured under optimal conditions to express the GPR protein.
• Protein Purification: Following cell lysis, GPR proteins are often solubilized using detergents and purified using techniques such as affinity chromatography, ion-exchange chromatography, and size-exclusion chromatography to achieve high purity.
• Protein Refolding and Formulation: If necessary, proteins are refolded to attain their functional conformation and formulated with stabilizers for storage and application.

Applications

• Research:
  • Signal Transduction Studies: Used to investigate the signaling pathways mediated by GPRs and their role in various physiological and pathological processes.
  • Structural Biology: Employed in studies to determine the 3D structure of GPRs, often using techniques like X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy.
• Drug Development:
  • Screening: Utilized in high-throughput screening assays to identify agonists, antagonists, or modulators of GPR activity, which are potential therapeutic agents.
  • Mechanistic Studies: Helps in understanding the mechanism of action of drugs targeting GPRs, facilitating the development of new pharmaceuticals.
• Diagnostics:
  • Biomarker Discovery: Used in assays to detect GPR expression levels as biomarkers for various diseases, including cancer and metabolic disorders.

Advantages

• Consistency and Safety: Recombinant production ensures high purity, batch-to-batch consistency, and eliminates contamination risks.
• Customization: Allows for the production of specific GPR variants, including those with mutations or specific modifications, for targeted studies.
• Scalability: Facilitates large-scale production to meet research and industrial demands.

Recombinant GPR proteins are valuable tools in biomedical research, providing insights into receptor function and signaling pathways. Their use in drug development and diagnostics underscores their importance in advancing therapeutic strategies and understanding disease mechanisms.