Identification of GPCR localization in detergent resistant membranes

Methods Mol Biol. 2011:746:411-23. doi: 10.1007/978-1-61779-126-0_24.

Abstract

Lipid domains of the plasma membrane were originally described as a cell matrix insoluble in cold -nonionic detergents and enriched in glycosphingolipids. Because of these biochemical properties, these membrane domains were termed detergent-resistant membranes (DRMs) or detergent-insoluble -glycolipid-enriched (DIG) membranes. Membrane rafts and caveolae are two types of lipid domains that share these properties, as well as structural/functional dependence on membrane cholesterol. Membrane rafts and caveolae are believed to act as signaling platforms for ligand-activated receptors, thereby contributing to the regulation of receptor function. Here we describe a simple method to assess the association of GPCRs with detergent resistant membranes in native brain tissue and cultured cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biological Assay
  • Brain / metabolism
  • Cell Membrane / drug effects*
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism*
  • Detergents / pharmacology*
  • HEK293 Cells
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Protein Transport
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / metabolism*
  • Subcellular Fractions

Substances

  • Detergents
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled