Straightforward Protein-Protein Interaction Interface Mapping via Random Mutagenesis and Mammalian Protein Protein Interaction Trap (MAPPIT)

The MAPPIT (mammalian protein protein interaction trap) method allows high-throughput detection of protein interactions by very simple co-transfection of three plasmids in HEK293T cells, followed by a luciferase readout. MAPPIT detects a large percentage of all protein interactions, including those requiring posttranslational modifications and endogenous or exogenous ligands. Here, we present a straightforward method that allows detailed mapping of interaction interfaces via MAPPIT. The method provides insight into the interaction mechanism and reveals how this is affected by disease-associated mutations. By combining error-prone polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for random mutagenesis, 96-well DNA prepping, Sanger sequencing, and MAPPIT via 384-well transfections, we test the effects of a large number of mutations of a selected protein on its protein interactions. The entire screen takes less than three months and interactions with multiple partners can be studied in parallel. The effect of mutations on the MAPPIT readout is mapped on the protein structure, allowing unbiased identification of all putative interaction sites. We have thus far analysed 6 proteins and mapped their interfaces for 16 different interaction partners. Our method is broadly applicable as the required tools are simple and widely available.