The Two-Hybrid System, also known as Yeast Two-Hybrid (Y2H), is a powerful genetic technique used in molecular biology and genetic research to study protein-protein interactions. It allows scientists to identify and characterize protein interactions in living cells and understand the complex network of interactions that occur within cells.
This technique involves the use of two hybrid proteins: the DNA-binding domain (DBD) and the activation domain (AD). The DBD is fused to a protein of interest, called the bait protein, and the AD is fused to another protein of interest, called the prey protein. When these hybrid proteins interact, they bring the DBD and AD domains into close proximity, allowing for the reconstitution of an active transcription factor. This leads to the activation of reporter genes, which can be easily detected and quantified.
The Two-Hybrid System enables the identification of protein interactions that occur in a physiological context, inside living cells. It has been widely used to study protein-protein interactions in various organisms, including yeast, bacteria, plants, and mammals. This technique has greatly contributed to our understanding of cellular signaling pathways, protein networks, and disease mechanisms.
Overall, Two-Hybrid System Techniques provide a valuable tool for investigating protein-protein interactions and have revolutionized the field of molecular biology by allowing researchers to map and decipher the complex web of interactions that govern cellular processes.
