A fluorescent ligand-binding alternative using Tag-lite® technology.

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are crucial cell surface receptors that transmit signals from a wide range of extracellular ligands. Indeed, 40% to 50% of all marketed drugs are thought to modulate GPCR activity, making them the major class of targets in the drug discovery process. Binding assays are widely used to identify high-affinity, selective, and potent GPCR drugs.

Crosstalk between GABAB and mGlu1a receptors reveals new insight into GPCR signal integration.

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have critical functions in intercellular communication. Although a wide range of different receptors have been identified in the same cells, the mechanism by which signals are integrated remains elusive. The ability of GPCRs to form dimers or larger hetero-oligomers is thought to generate such signal integration.

Cell-surface protein-protein interaction analysis with time-resolved FRET and snap-tag technologies: application to GPCR oligomerization.

Cell-surface proteins are important in cell-cell communication. They assemble into heterocomplexes that include different receptors and effectors. Elucidation and manipulation of such protein complexes offers new therapeutic possibilities.

Expression of the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor triggers thymocyte differentiation.

In the thymus, during T-cell differentiation, the expression of the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (PBR) modulates. The protein level decreases between the double negative and double positive stages, and then increases when thymocytes become single positive. We addressed the role played by PBR in T-cell maturation.

Immunohistochemical assessment of the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor in breast cancer and its relationship with survival.

Purpose: The peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (PBR) expression has been shown dramatically increased in neoplastic tissues and tumor cell lines originated from ovary, liver, colon, breast, or brain relative to untransformed tissues. Its expression has been also associated with tumor progression and aggressiveness. To explore whether PBR expression level could be of prognostic value in invasive breast cancer, we studied a series of 117 patients who underwent surgery for primary breast carcinomas and were followed-up for 8 years.