Target Structure Validation & Drug–Target Engagement in Xenopus laevis Oocytes
Service description:
a) NMR-based target structure validation:
This service comprises the acquisition of high-resolution NMR spectra of a given target structure under model in vitroconditions (planned for use in drug screening/development) and in the intracellular environment of Xenopus laevisoocytes. Comparison of the in vitro and in-cell spectral fingerprints reveals the physiological relevance of the target structure and in vitro conditions’ formulations.
b) NMR-based screening of drug candidates for interactions with a specific target in the intracellular space of living Xenopus laevis oocytes (a model eukaryotic cell system):
This service comprises the acquisition of high-resolution NMR spectra of a given target in the intracellular space of Xenopus laevis oocytes before and after exposure to a drug candidate. These experiments assess whether the drug–target interaction observed under simplified in vitro conditions also occurs in the complex intracellular environment and allow estimation of potential off-target interactions.
User guideline:
- Sample Requirements: ¹³C/¹⁵N/¹⁹F-labelled proteins (Mr < 30 kDa); non-labelled and ¹³C/¹⁵N/¹⁹F-labelled RNA/DNA oligonucleotides.
- Consultation: Preparation of each sample must be negotiated well in advance (at least one month) to ensure the availability of fresh X. laevis oocytes and access to the robotic microinjector.
- Expected timeline for the access visit: July 2026
