Time-resolved cryo-EM of G-protein activation by a GPCR. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38480881/)

These scientists wanted to understand how a specific type of protein called G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) work together with other proteins called G proteins in our cells. They used a special technique called time-resolved cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to watch these proteins in action.

Imagine you have a puzzle with many pieces that fit together in a specific order. The scientists wanted to see how these pieces move and change shape when they are activated by a signal. They focused on a pair of proteins called GPCR and G protein.

They added a molecule called GTP to the proteins to see how they react. By taking pictures at different time points, they were able to see how the G protein changed shape and interacted with the GPCR. This helped them understand the exact steps that happen when these proteins start working together.

The scientists found that certain parts of the G protein change shape and move in a specific order when they receive the signal from the GPCR. This information helps us understand how these proteins communicate with each other inside our cells.

Overall, this study showed how time-resolved cryo-EM can be a powerful tool for scientists to study and learn more about how proteins in our bodies work together to carry out important functions.

Papasergi-Scott MM., Perez-Hernandez G., Batebi H., Gao Y., Eskici G., Seven AB., Panova O., Hilger D., Casiraghi M., He F., Maul L., Gmeiner P., Kobilka BK., Hildebrand PW., Skiniotis G. Time-resolved cryo-EM of G-protein activation by a GPCR. Nature. 2024 Mar 13. doi: 10.1038/s41586-024-07153-1.