Small Molecule Modulators of β-arrestins.

Unlabelled: β-arrestins (βarrs) are key regulators of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), essential for modulating signaling pathways and physiological processes. While current pharmacological strategies target GPCR orthosteric and allosteric sites, as well as G protein transducers, comparable tools for studying βarrs are lacking. Here, we present the discovery and characterization of novel small-molecule allosteric inhibitors of βarrs through comprehensive biophysical, biochemical, pharmacological, and structural analyses.

Signal transduction at GPCRs: Allosteric activation of the ERK MAPK by β-arrestin.

β-arrestins are multivalent adaptor proteins that bind active phosphorylated G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) to inhibit G protein signaling, mediate receptor internalization, and initiate alternative signaling events. β-arrestins link agonist-stimulated GPCRs to downstream signaling partners, such as the c-Raf-MEK1-ERK1/2 cascade leading to ERK1/2 activation. β-arrestins have been thought to transduce signals solely via passive scaffolding by facilitating the assembly of multiprotein signaling complexes.

Immunofluorescent staining of cancer spheroids and fine-needle aspiration-derived organoids.

Our organoid generation technique has allowed for the development of downstream organoid applications. Here, we detail an accessible, straightforward protocol for immunofluorescent staining and imaging of thyroid cancer organoids, particularly those with tumor de-differentiation. Immunofluorescence is a powerful tool to help understand the localization of cell types within organoids and determine the interactions between those cells.

Novel three-dimensional cultures provide insights into thyroid cancer behavior.

Thyroid cancer has the fastest growing incidence of any cancer in the United States, as measured by the number of new cases per year. Despite advances in tissue culture techniques, a robust model for thyroid cancer spheroid culture is yet to be developed. Using eight established thyroid cancer cell lines, we created an efficient and cost-effective 3D culture system that can enhance our understanding of in vivo treatment response.