Distinct Membrane Binding Properties of the Two Non-visual Arrestins

Membrane interactions play a crucial role in regulating arrestin activation and its binding to phosphorylated G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Here, we utilize in vitro biophysical approaches and cell-based fluorescence intensity fluctuation analysis to systematically compare the membrane-binding properties of the two highly conserved arrestin subtypes, arrestin-2 and arrestin-3, under basal and stimulated conditions. Our findings reveal that arrestin-2 selectively engages the PI(4,5)P2-containing nanodiscs via its C-edge, whereas arrestin-3 primarily utilizes its finger loop to interact with negatively charged lipids. Notably, while the lipid bilayer alone does not activate arrestin, it synergistically enhances arrestin-2/3 activation in conjunction with a phosphorylated GPCR C-tail. Additionally, the spacing between receptor phosphorylation sites and the lipid bilayer modulates arrestin-membrane assembly. Live cell tracking further demonstrates that arrestin-2 and arrestin-3 exhibit distinct plasma membrane dissociation dynamics. These findings provide novel insights into the mechanisms governing arrestin activation and its functional interplay with membranes.