Improved methods for cloning and detection in the yeast two hybrid assay

Abstract

The yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) mating assay is a powerful method for detecting protein-protein interactions. Firstly, the gene of interest is cloned into specific Y2H vectors. Although multiple innovations in cloning methods were made in the past two decades, the conventional cloning method of restriction-enzyme (RE) digestion followed by ligation is still widely used. Unfortunately, many researchers, especially new-comers, often encounter difficulties in cloning a gene into a desired vector. Secondly, interaction between two proteins is commonly detected by growth of the diploids in specific media. This step takes about two weeks. Here, we describe improved cloning and detection procedures for the Y2H assay that accelerate the research progress. The changes in procedures involve running an agarose gel after the doubly digested vector and insert are ligated in the cloning step to determine the efficiency of RE digestion and ligation, and performing an additional replica-plating on plates for earlier assessment of interaction in the detection step. We show an example of Y2H interaction between Trs23 and Trs120 (respective subunits of TRAPP I and TRAPP II), as a proof of concept. By following the improved methods described here, the chances of successful cloning increased and the time for the whole Y2H experimental process is significantly shorter.