Green Fluorescent Protein Labeling of Cytoskeletal Structures—Novel Targeting Approach Based on Leucine Zippers. (August 1998)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Katz, B.-Z.; Krylov, D.; Aota, S.-i.; Olive, M.; Vinson, C.; Yamada, K.M.
• Is Part Of: Biotechniques. Volume 25:Number 2(1998)
• Page Start: 298
• Page End: 304
• Publication Date: 1998-08
• Subjects: Biology, Experimental -- Periodicals; Molecular biology -- Periodicals; Medical technology -- Periodicals; Biology, Experimental; Medical technology; Molecular biology; Clinical Laboratory Techniques -- Periodicals; Research -- Periodicals; Medical Laboratory Science -- Periodicals; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 570
• DOI: 10.2144/98252rr01
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0736-6205

Abstract

Green fluorescent protein (GFP) is a valuable marker for intracellular protein localization. However, the fusion of GFP with structural proteins can alter their properties, resulting in a loss of fusion protein localization, decreased GFP fluorescence or both. We describe a novel targeting approach based on noncovalent heterodimerization of GFP and cytoplasmic structural proteins. The formation of structural protein/GFP complexes was mediated by modified leucine zipper protein spacers designed to form high-affinity heterodimers. The complexes localized accurately to specific sites within cells, providing selective fluorescence labeling of subcellular structures such as microfilaments or focal contacts.