GPCR Expression Using Baculovirus-Infected Sf9 Cells

Expression of proteins in insect cells using recombinant baculoviruses has gained wide use in the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) community. This expression system produces high yields of functional receptor, is able to perform post-translational modifications, and is readily adaptable to large-scale culture. Here, we describe the generic methods for expressing a GPCR using baculovirus-infected insect cells, including the maintenance of insect cell culture. Data are presented for polyhedrin promoter-driven expression of a C-terminal 6 x histidine-tagged mammalian M(2) muscarinic receptor in Sf9 cells. Results demonstrate that expressed receptor could be detected and quantified using radiolabeled ligand binding, that expression was maximal at approximately 72 h post-infection, and that expression levels could be altered by addition of various ligands to cultures of infected insect cells.