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G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) act as major pathways for signals from neurotransmitters like epinephrine and acetylcholine. However, mapping these signals at high resolution throughout the brain has traditionally been difficult. Therefore, researchers developed the SENSIT platform GPCR ligands sensor to solve this challenge. This tool uses chimeric nanobodies to detect chemical release events across large volumes. In addition, it integrates these signals over time for better visualization and whole-brain mapping.
The platform shows excellent selectivity for specific molecules like epinephrine and norepinephrine. For example, it distinguishes epinephrine from other catecholamines with 20-fold selectivity. Furthermore, its modular design allows for the creation of various other sensors, such as those for the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor 2. Consequently, this technology might enable the first detailed maps of diverse neurotransmitter pathways. Because it is a single-chain integrator, the system is easier for researchers to express in various neural environments. This versatility makes it a promising tool for future neuroscience applications.
The SENSIT platform is a modular, single-chain fluorescent integrator used to map neurotransmitter activity in the brain with high resolution.
They offer high selectivity, such as a 20-fold preference for epinephrine over norepinephrine, which ensures highly accurate chemical mapping.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.
References
Putansu A et al. SENSIT, a Modular Single-Chain Fluorescent Integrator Platform for GPCR Ligands. ACS Chem Biol. 2026 Jun 08. doi: 10.1021/acschembio.6c00161. PMID: 42258302.
Kroning KE et al. Single-chain fluorescent integrators for mapping G-protein-coupled receptor agonists. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2024;121(18):e2307090121.
Skiniotis G. Structural findings reveal how distinct GPCR ligands create different levels of activation. Nature. 2025.
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SENSIT is a modular single-chain integrator platform designed to detect and map GPCR ligands like epinephrine and acetylcholine with high resolution....
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