Available Technology
Method for imaging and identifying newly synthesized proteins in vivo
Technology:
Scientists at the Salic lab developed a simple and robust chemical method to image and affinity-purify nascent proteins in cells and in animals, based on an Alkyne analog of Puromycin. This compound forms covalent conjugates with nascent polypeptide chains, which are rapidly turned over by the proteasome and can be visualized and specifically captured. Unlike known Methionine analogs, this compound does not require Methionine-free conditions and, uniquely, can be used to label and assay nascent proteins in whole organisms, allowing for the first time the visualization of protein synthesis patterns in tissues and organs.
Markets Addressed
Synthesis of many proteins is tightly controlled at the level of translation, and plays an essential role in fundamental processes such as cell growth and proliferation, signaling, differentiation or death. Understanding how gene expression is regulated at the level of translation, spatially and temporally, requires tools for visualizing and identifying nascent polypeptide chains. Methods that allow imaging and identification of nascent proteins are critical for dissecting regulation of translation, both spatially and temporally, particularly in whole organisms.
Innovations and Advantages
This strategy should have broad applicability for imaging protein synthesis and for identifying proteins synthesized under various physiological and Pathological conditions in vivo.
Additional Information
Intellectual Property Status: Patent(s) pending
A provisional patent application for this technology has been filed. This technology is available for worldwide, exclusive licensing and/or a collaborative research program with the Salic lab.
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Inventor(s):
Liu, Jing
Salic, Adrian
Categories:
For further information, please contact:
Grant Zimmermann, Director of Business Development
(617) 495-3067
Reference Harvard Case #4223