AbstractMagnetoreception, the response to geomagnetic fields is a well described phenomenon in nature. However, it is likely that convergent evolution led to different mechanisms in different organisms. One intriguing example is the unique Electromagnetic Perceptive Gene (EPG) from the glass catfish Kryptopterus vitreolus, that can remotely control cellular function, upon magnetic stimulation in in-vitro and in animal models. Here, we report for the first time the cellular location and orientation of the EPG protein. We utilized a differential labelling technique in determining that the EPG protein is a membrane anchored protein with an N-terminal extracellular domain. The kinetics and diffusion dynamics of the EPG protein in response to magnetic stimulation was also elucidated using single particle imaging and tracking. Pulse chase labelling and Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence (TIRF) imaging revealed an increase in EPG kinetics post magnetic stimulation activation at a single particle level. Trajectory analysis show notably different EPG protein kinetics before and after magnetic stimulation in both 2 (free vs bound particle) and 3 state (free vs intermediate vs bound particle) tracking models. These data serve to provide additional information that support and understand the underlying biophysical mechanisms behind EPG activation by magnetic stimulation. In conclusion, our results provide evidence for the basis of magnetoreception in EPG protein that would aid in future studies that seek to understand this novel mechanism. This study is important for understanding the phenomenon of magnetoreception as well as developing new technologies for magnetogenetics – the utilization of electromagnetic fields to remotely control cellular function.Graphical TOCElucidation of magnetoreception in a fish derived Electromagnetic Perceptive Gene (EPG), using genetic tagging and single particle tracking with Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence (TIRF) suggests changes in kinetics of membranal motion upon stimulation by magnetic field.
Functional Characterization of an Electromagnetic Perceptive Protein
