Detection of membrane-anchoring lipid modifications of proteins in cells by radioactive metabolic labeling

STAR Protoc. 2023 Sep 15;4(3):102416. doi: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102416. Epub 2023 Jul 4.

Abstract

Prenylation and palmitoylation are two major lipid modifications of cellular proteins that anchor proteins to cell membranes. Here, we present a protocol for detecting these modifications in cellular proteins by radioactive metabolic labeling. We describe steps for metabolic labeling of cells, cell harvesting for carrying out immunoprecipitations, subjecting immunocomplexes to SDS-PAGE, and transferring them to polyvinylidine flouride (PVDF) membranes. We then detail detection of labeled target proteins by exposing PVDF membranes to phosphor screens and using a phosphor imager machine. For complete details of this protocol, please refer to Liang et al.1.

Keywords: Cell Membrane; Cell-based Assays; Protein Expression and Purification.

MeSH terms

  • Fluorocarbon Polymers*
  • Lipid Metabolism
  • Membrane Lipids*
  • Polyvinyls / metabolism
  • Proteins* / metabolism

Substances

  • polyvinylidene fluoride
  • Membrane Lipids
  • Proteins
  • Polyvinyls
  • Fluorocarbon Polymers