Combining site-directed spin labeling in vivo and in-cell EPR distance determination

Phys Chem Chem Phys. 2020 Mar 7;22(9):4875-4879. doi: 10.1039/c9cp05584c. Epub 2020 Feb 19.

Abstract

Structural studies on proteins directly in their native environment are required for a comprehensive understanding of their function. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and in particular double electron-electron resonance (DEER) distance determination are suited to investigate spin-labeled proteins directly in the cell. The combination of intracellular bioorthogonal labeling with in-cell DEER measurements does not require additional purification or delivery steps of spin-labeled protein to the cells. In this study, we express eGFP in E. coli and use copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) for the site-directed spin labeling of the protein in vivo, followed by in-cell EPR distance determination. Inter-spin distance measurements of spin-labeled eGFP agree with in vitro measurements and calculations based on the rotamer library of the spin label.

MeSH terms

  • Alkynes / chemistry
  • Azides / chemistry
  • Catalysis
  • Copper / chemistry
  • Cycloaddition Reaction
  • Electron Spin Resonance Spectroscopy*
  • Escherichia coli / metabolism*
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins / chemistry*
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins / genetics
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins / metabolism
  • Nitrogen Oxides / chemistry
  • Spin Labels

Substances

  • Alkynes
  • Azides
  • Nitrogen Oxides
  • Spin Labels
  • enhanced green fluorescent protein
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins
  • Copper