Neurexins are neuronal presynaptic proteins that bind to the postsynaptic protein neuroligin at the synaptic junction and are involved in transmitting signals across the neural synapse. The neurexin-neuroligin interaction appears to play a key role in autism and other mental disorders. We have constructed a protein-based biosensor that can detect chemical ligands based on the growth phenotype of bacterial cells.  Using this neurexin biosensor strain, we found a ligand that causes a growth phenotype at low ligand concentrations, suggesting strong binding. Results from molecular docking approach significantly align with the experimental finding. NMR study to determine the crystal structure of the ligand-bound protein would confirm the result. This general approach could help identify potential ligands of neurexin that interfere with the signaling across the synapse. Further, this might lead to a better understanding of the mechanism behind autism and other neural disorders.

Neurexin-based biosensor to detect potential ligands

245th National Meeting (2013)

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