Biochemical studies of membrane fusion at the single-particle level

Publication date: Available online 3 January 2019Source: Progress in Lipid ResearchAuthor(s): Zhiqi Tian, Jihong Gong, Michael Crowe, Ming Lei, Dechang Li, Baohua Ji, Jiajie DiaoAbstractTo study membrane fusion mediated by synaptic proteins, proteoliposomes have been widely used for in vitro ensemble measurements with limited insights into the fusion mechanism. Single-particle techniques have proven to be powerful in overcoming the limitations of traditional ensemble methods. Here, we summarize current single-particle methods in biophysical and biochemical studies of fusion mediated by soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) and other synaptic proteins, together with their advantages and limitations.

Source: Progress in Lipid Research - January 4, 2019 Category: Lipidology Source Type: research