Artificial membrane-like environments for in vitro studies of purified G-protein coupled receptors

► Reconstitution into native membrane-like environments is needed for quantitative biophysical studies of GPCRs. ► Six classes of membrane mimics are reviewed and evaluated for GPCR reconstitution. ► Classes reviewed here include micelles, bicelles, nanodiscs, lipid vesicles, planar lipid membranes, and lipidic cubic phases. ► Theoretical advantages and limitations for each reconstitution system are discussed. ► Examples of applications are provided.