Characterization of Genetically Encoded FRET Biosensors for Rho-Family GTPases.

Genetically encoded FRET-based biosensors are increasingly popular and useful tools for examining signaling pathways with high spatial and temporal resolution in living cells. Here, we show basic techniques used to characterize and to validate single-chain, genetically encoded Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) biosensors of the Rho GTPase-family proteins. Methods described here are generally applicable to other genetically encoded FRET-based biosensors by modifying the tested conditions to include additional/different regulators and inhibitors, as appropriate for the specific protein of interest.

Gravin regulates centrosome function through PLK1.

We propose to understand how the mitotic kinase PLK1 drives chromosome segregation errors, with a specific focus on Gravin, a PLK1 scaffold. In both three-dimensional primary prostate cancer cell cultures that are prone to Gravin depletion and Gravin short hairpin RNA (shRNA)-treated cells, an increase in cells containing micronuclei was noted in comparison with controls. To examine whether the loss of Gravin affected PLK1 distribution and activity, we utilized photokinetics and a PLK1 activity biosensor.