Rational Structure-Based Design of Bright GFP-Based Complexes with Tunable Dimerization.
Eshaghi, M., Sun, G., Gruter, A., Lim, C.L., Chee, Y.C., Jung, G., Jauch, R., Wohland, T., Chen, S.L.(2015) Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 54: 13952-13956
- PubMed: 26447926
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/anie.201506686
- Primary Citation of Related Structures:
4PFE - PubMed Abstract:
Fluorescent proteins are transformative tools; thus, any brightness increase is a welcome improvement. We invented the "vGFP strategy" based on structural analysis of GFP bound to a single-domain antibody, predicting tunable dimerization, enhanced brightness (ca. 50%), and improved pH resistance. We verified all of these predictions using biochemistry, crystallography, and single-molecule studies. We applied the vsfGFP proteins in three diverse scenarios: single-step immunofluorescence in vitro (3× brighter due to dimerization); expression in bacteria and human cells in vivo (1.5× brighter); and protein fusions showing better pH resistance in human cells in vivo. The vGFP strategy thus allows upgrading of existing applications, is applicable to other fluorescent proteins, and suggests a method for tuning dimerization of arbitrary proteins and optimizing protein properties in general.
Organizational Affiliation:
National University of Singapore, Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, 1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block, Level 10, Singapore 119074 (Singapore).