Abstract

The secretory network, which includes the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), the ER-Golgi intermediate compartment (ERGIC), and the Golgi apparatus, orchestrates the synthesis, processing, and delivery of integral membranes and secreted proteins to their specific cellular destinations. Traditional methods for investigating these complex pathways have provided foundational insights but often lack the precision to control and observe protein trafficking at single-cell or subcellular levels.

Zapalog-mediated endoplasmic reticulum trap (zapERtrap) addresses this gap by employing a brief pulse of visible light to trigger the release of diverse cargo proteins from the ER, offering exceptional spatial and temporal control. This method allows researchers to study protein trafficking with single-cell and subcellular resolution. This innovative approach builds on previous "trap and release" strategies but surpasses them by eliminating the need for bulky protein tags and UVB light, which posed limitations on local activation.

The zapERtrap system can be applied to various cellular processes, including the regulation of receptor levels, growth factors, morphogens, and hormones. This tool is especially useful in neurons, enabling the study of protein regulation across dendritic and axonal projections. ZapERtrap allows researchers to track where synaptic proteins, like neuroligin 1 (NL1) and GluA1-containing AMPA receptors, appear on the cell surface. Overall, zapERtrap's ability to provide tunable and precise control over protein trafficking makes it an invaluable tool for advancing our understanding of cellular organization and function, with broad applications in cell biology and beyond.

In this webinar, we will discuss the development and functionality of zapERtrap, its proof-of-concept applications in neuroscience for studying the trafficking of synaptic proteins, and its potential for broader applications in cell biology. Attendees will gain insights into how zapERtrap can be used to dissect complex secretory pathways and reveal new aspects of cellular organization and function.

Highlights

- Overview of “trap and release” strategies for controlling secretory trafficking

- Introduction to zapERtrap: Understanding the principles behind this light-regulated ER release system and how it enhances spatial and temporal control of protein trafficking.

- zapERtrap applications in neuroscience and the study of compartmentalized trafficking.

- Technical advancements and broad applications of zapERtrap.