Role of membrane mimetics on biophysical EPR studies of membrane proteins

Biochim Biophys Acta Biomembr. 2023 Apr;1865(4):184138. doi: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2023.184138. Epub 2023 Feb 9.

Abstract

Biological membranes are essential in providing the stability of membrane proteins in a functional state. Functionally stable homogeneous sample is required for biophysical electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) studies of membrane proteins for obtaining pertinent structural dynamics of the protein. Significant progresses have been made for the optimization of the suitable membrane environments required for biophysical EPR measurements. However, no universal membrane mimetic system is available that can solubilize all membrane proteins suitable for biophysical EPR studies while maintaining the functional integrity. Great efforts are needed to optimize the sample condition to obtain better EPR data quality of membrane proteins that can provide meaningful information on structural dynamics. In this mini-review, we will discuss important aspects of membrane mimetics for biophysical EPR measurements and current progress with some of the recent examples.

Keywords: Detergent micelles; EPR spectroscopy; Lipid bilayers; Lipodisq nanoparticles; Membrane mimetics; SMA copolymer; Structural dynamics.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Biomimetics*
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism
  • Electron Spin Resonance Spectroscopy
  • Membrane Proteins* / chemistry
  • Membranes / metabolism

Substances

  • Membrane Proteins