Receptors Structure Characterization Service | Cryo-EM

Membrane receptors are fundamental mediators of signal transduction, playing pivotal roles in processes such as neurotransmission, immune response, hormone regulation, and therapeutic target recognition. These receptors—including GPCRs, RTKs, ion channels, and cytokine receptors—are typically embedded in membranes and exhibit complex, dynamic conformations that challenge traditional structural biology tools like X-ray crystallography and NMR.

 

Receptors Structure Characterization Service based on Cryo-EM has emerged as an effective solution for resolving the detailed architecture of these challenging systems. Due to its ability to bypass crystallization and its compatibility with heterogeneous complexes, Cryo-EM is now a mainstream method for receptor studies. MtoZ Biolabs, leveraging advanced Cryo-EM instrumentation and deep expertise in structural biology, offers this specialized service to help researchers decode receptor activation, ligand interaction, and signaling pathways at near-atomic resolution.

 

Services at MtoZ Biolabs

Receptors Structure Characterization Service based on Cryo-EM provided by MtoZ Biolabs covers a broad range of receptor types, enabling high-resolution 3D structure analysis for:

· Transmembrane signaling receptors: e.g., GPCRs, receptor tyrosine kinases, Toll-like receptors

· Ion channels and transporters: e.g., calcium channels, SLC family, ATP-sensitive receptors

· Immune and cytokine receptors: e.g., interleukin receptors, TNF receptors, antigen-presentation complexes

· Receptor-ligand complexes: including drug-bound, antibody-bound, or multi-ligand assemblies

 

Whether you are targeting a single receptor or conducting large-scale screening, MtoZ Biolabs delivers integrated solutions—spanning sample optimization, data acquisition, and 3D structural interpretation—through the Receptors Structure Characterization Service based on Cryo-EM platform.

 

Analysis Workflow

To ensure consistency and data reliability, our Service follows a rigorously validated analytical workflow:

1. Sample Preparation &Optimization

Assess sample quality; employ stabilizing agents (Fab, nanobodies, G proteins) as needed.

 

2. Automated Cryo-Grid Preparation & Screening

Rapid vitrification and grid assessment for ice quality and particle dispersion.

 

3. High-Throughput Data Acquisition

Use of advanced Cryo-EM systems (e.g., Titan Krios) for automated, high-resolution imaging.

 

4. Image Processing & 3D Reconstruction

Perform classification, initial modeling, and refinement for detailed structure generation.

 

5. Structural Modeling & Annotation

Fit atomic models into maps, locate ligands, and interpret functional conformations.

 

6. Data Delivery

Provide coordinate files, density maps, raw data, and a detailed project report.

 

Why Choose MtoZ Biolabs?

✅ No crystallization required: Ideal for difficult-to-crystallize receptors and flexible complexes

✅ Native-state conformation capture: Observe receptors within near-physiological or ligand-bound environments

✅ Scalable evaluation capability: Supports structural screening across receptor families and drug candidates

✅ Wide receptor compatibility: Applicable to diverse membrane proteins, complexes, and molecular assemblies

✅ One-time-charge: Our pricing is transparent, no hidden fees or additional costs.

 

Applications

Receptors Structure Characterization Service based on Cryo-EM supports a variety of applications across drug discovery and basic science:

·  Mechanism of drug action: Reveal ligand-binding sites and structural dynamics to support rational drug design

·  Antibody/nanobody epitope mapping: Characterize interaction interfaces to guide antibody optimization and IP strategies

·  Signal transduction studies: Visualize receptor conformational states under activation or inhibition

·  Novel receptor structure-function discovery: Explore structural features of under-investigated transmembrane proteins

·  Complex assembly mechanism: Dissect receptor interactions with co-factors like G proteins, β-arrestins, and chaperones

 

Case Study

Case 1：Structural Basis of P2X7 Receptor Activation by BzATP

In a recent study, high-resolution Cryo-EM was employed to resolve the full-length P2X7 receptor in both ligand-bound and unbound states. The research revealed critical residues beyond the canonical binding pocket responsible for high-affinity agonist recognition. This detailed structural information, when combined with functional assays, illustrated selective activation mechanisms within the P2X family and emphasized the power of the Receptors Structure Characterization Service based on Cryo-EM in defining molecular pharmacology.

 



Oken, A. C. et al. Nat. Commun. 2024.

 

FAQ

Q1: Is this service applicable to receptors with high structural flexibility?

Yes. Cryo-EM enables visualization of multiple conformational states. Within Receptors Structure Characterization Service based on Cryo-EM, we apply advanced classification methods to distinguish structural subpopulations and support mechanism-based analysis.

 

Q2: Can MtoZ Biolabs provide membrane-mimetic systems for membrane proteins?

Absolutely. We offer nanodiscs, AMPHOS, SMALP, or detergent-based embedding strategies, tailored to each receptor's biochemical profile and study goals.

 

Whether your research aims to elucidate receptor-ligand interactions or deconstruct signal transduction mechanisms, Receptors Structure Characterization Service based on Cryo-EM from MtoZ Biolabs is your trusted partner for high-resolution, publication-ready insights. Contact us today to discuss your receptor structure project.