Labeling of CC Chemokine Receptor 2 with a Versatile Intracellular Allosteric Probe

ACS Chem Biol. 2024 Sep 20;19(9):2070-2080. doi: 10.1021/acschembio.4c00439. Epub 2024 Aug 26.

Abstract

Interest in affinity-based probes (AfBPs) as novel tools to interrogate G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) has gained traction in recent years. AfBPs represent an interesting and more versatile alternative to antibodies. In the present study, we report the development and validation of AfBPs that target the intracellular allosteric pocket of CCR2, a GPCR of interest for the development of therapies targeting autoimmune and inflammatory diseases and also cancer. Owing to the two-step labeling process of these CCR2 AfBPs through the incorporation of a click handle, we were successful in applying our most efficient probe in a variety of in vitro experiments and making use of multiple different detection techniques, such as SDS-PAGE and LC/MS-based proteomics. Collectively, this novel probe shows high selectivity, versatility, and applicability. Hence, this is a valuable alternative for CCR2-targeting antibodies and other traditional tool compounds and could aid in target validation and engagement in drug discovery.

MeSH terms

  • Affinity Labels / chemistry
  • Allosteric Regulation
  • Allosteric Site
  • HEK293 Cells
  • Humans
  • Molecular Probes / chemistry
  • Receptors, CCR2* / chemistry
  • Receptors, CCR2* / metabolism

Substances

  • Receptors, CCR2
  • CCR2 protein, human
  • Affinity Labels
  • Molecular Probes