The human serotonin 5-HT2C receptor: complete cDNA, genomic structure, and alternatively spliced variant

Positive allosteric modulator of the human 5-HT2C receptor

The human 5-hydroxytryptamine-2C (5-HT2C) receptor has been the target of potential anxiolytics and antiobesity drugs, and its positive allosteric modulator was discovered to be l-threo-alpha-d-galacto-octopyranoside, methyl-7-chloro-6,7,8-trideoxy-6-[[(4-undecyl-2-piperidinyl)carbonyl]amino]-1-thiomonohydrochloride (2S-cis) (PNU-69176E). The drug at low micromolar concentrations (<25 microM) markedly enhanced [3H]5-HT binding (more than 300%) by increasing its affinity for low-affinity sites but with no appreciable effect on antagonist ([3H]mesulergine) binding. Functionally, PNU-69176E alone rendered receptors constitutively active, producing the pheno-types of 5-HT-activated receptors, as measured with mesulergine-sensitive guanosine 5'-O-(3-[35S]thio)triphosphate binding, transient inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate release, and [3H]inositol phosphate accumulation. These actions of PNU-69176E were observed with the human 5-HT2C receptor expressed in several mammalian cell lines (human embryonic kidney 293, NIH3T3, and SH-EP) at variable receptor densities (6 to 45 pmol/mg of protein), but not with analogous 5-HT and dopamine receptors (human 5-HT2A, 5-HT2B, 5-HT6, 5-HT7, and dopamine D2-long and D3 receptors). Structurally, PNU-69176E consists of a long alkyl chain and a polar moiety, including the alpha-d-galactopyranoside. Its analogs with shorter alkyl chains (methyl to n-hexyl instead of n-undecyl group) failed to enhance [3H]5-HT binding, and also long alkyl amides are without allosteric modulation. We propose that PNU-69176E may represent a new class of membrane receptor modulators, which probably need a long alkyl chain as a membrane anchor and target a selective polar head group to receptor modulatory sites near the membrane surface.

Effects of cocaine and reserpine administration on RNA editing of rat 5-HT2C receptor estimated by primer extension combined with denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography

Serotonin 2C receptor (5-HT(2C)R) transcripts undergo RNA editing, generating pharmacologically different isoforms. To test whether the RNA editing of 5-HT(2C)R is regulated by serotonergic activity, effects of cocaine or reserpine administration in the rat cerebral cortex were examined. Although these drugs have been known to alter serotonin metabolism, no alterations in the RNA editing were found by the sequencing analysis. Towards high throughput analysis, we developed a non-RI method that allows accurate and rapid estimation of RNA editing by combining the primer extension with denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography (DHPLC). By using this, RNA editing efficiencies of 5-HT(2C)R in the midbrain and hippocampus as well as the cerebral cortex were examined, and no alterations were found among these regions. Our method using DHPLC is applicable to examine association of RNA editing with various diseases.

Underediting of glutamate receptor GluR-B mRNA in malignant gliomas

In mammals, RNA editing by site-selective adenosine deamination regulates key functional properties of neurotransmitter receptors in the central nervous system. Glutamate receptor subunit B is nearly 100% edited at one position (the Q/R-site), which is essential for normal receptor function. Its significance is apparent from mouse models in which a slightly reduced rate of Q/R-site editing is associated with early onset epilepsy and premature death. Here we report that in tissues from malignant human brain tumors, this editing position of glutamate receptor subunit B is substantially underedited compared with control tissues. We also observe alterations in editing and alternative splicing of serotonin receptor 5-HT(2C) transcripts. These changes correlate with a decrease in enzymatic activity of the editing enzyme adenosine deaminase acting on RNA (ADAR) 2, as deduced from analysis of ADAR2 self-editing. Our results suggest a role for RNA editing in tumor progression and may provide a molecular model explaining the occurrence of epileptic seizures in association with malignant gliomas.

Identification and characterization of the human serotonin-4 receptor gene promoter

The human serotonin-4 (5-HT(4)) receptor gene expression is highly regulated in various tissues. We isolated the human 5-HT(4) receptor gene containing the 5'-flanking region and characterized its promoter. By 5'-RACE (5'-rapid amplification of the cDNA ends) and inverse PCR, multiple transcription initiation sites were identified. The most 5' one (assigned to +1) was 5135 bp upstream to the translation start site. The 500-bp 5'-flanking region contained potential binding sites for transcription factor Sp-1, AP-2, AP-4, and GATA. However, this region lacked TATA- and CAAT-boxes. Transient transfection analyses in human choriocarcinoma T3M-3 (5-HT(4) receptor-positive) and HepG2 (5-HT(4) receptor-negative) cells revealed that the region (-210 to -105) is necessary for the basic and cell-type specific 5-HT(4) receptor gene expression. In addition, untranslated exon 1 contained negative (+112 to +182) as well as positive (+1 to +111) modulators, indicating that exon 1 plays a regulatory role in the 5-HT(4) receptor gene expression.

The human serotonin 5-HT4 receptor regulates secretion of non-amyloidogenic precursor protein

The serotonin 5-HT(4) receptor has recently gained a lot of attention for its functional roles in central processes such as memory and cognition. In this study, we show that activation of the human 5-HT(4) (h5-HT(4)) receptor stimulates the secretion of the non-amyloidogenic soluble form of the amyloid precursor protein (sAPPalpha). 5-HT enhanced the level of secreted sAPPalpha in a time- and dose-dependent manner in Chinese hamster ovary cells stably expressing the h5-HT(4(e)) receptor isoform. The increase was inhibited by the selective 5-HT(4) receptor antagonist, GR113808. The 5-HT(4) selective agonists, prucalopride and renzapride, also increased secreted sAPPalpha in IMR32 human neuroblastoma cells. The stimulatory effect of 5-HT was mimicked by forskolin, a direct activator of adenylyl cyclase, and 8-bromo-cAMP, a membrane-permeant cAMP analogue. On the contrary, inhibition of protein kinase A (PKA) by H89 potentiated the 5-HT-induced increase in both secreted and cellular sAPPalpha. This phenomenon involves a novel PKA-independent stimulatory process that overcomes a PKA-dependent inhibitory one. Finally, activation of the h5-HT(4(e)) receptor did not modify extracellular amyloid beta-protein in Chinese hamster ovary cells transfected with the human APP695. Given the neuroprotective and enhancing memory effects of sAPPalpha, our results may open a new avenue for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Multiplicity of mechanisms of serotonin receptor signal transduction

The serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) receptors have been divided into 7 subfamilies by convention, 6 of which include 13 different genes for G-protein-coupled receptors. Those subfamilies have been characterized by overlapping pharmacological properties, amino acid sequences, gene organization, and second messenger coupling pathways. Post-genomic modifications, such as alternative mRNA splicing or mRNA editing, creates at least 20 more G-protein-coupled 5-HT receptors, such that there are at least 30 distinct 5-HT receptors that signal through G-proteins. This review will focus on what is known about the signaling linkages of the G-protein-linked 5-HT receptors, and will highlight some fascinating new insights into 5-HT receptor signaling.

Genetic mechanisms of behavior--don't forget about the transcription factors

Major changes in psychiatric phenotypes due to genetic factors are seldom the result of single gene polymorphisms, but more often the result of several genetic mechanisms. In this millennium article we discuss the notion that the expression of numerous candidate genes could be regulated by the same transcription factors, and that polymorphisms in transcription factor genes might explain some phenotypes. We describe recent results of studies on the biological marker thrombocyte monoamine oxidase (trbc MAO) and the transcription factor AP-2beta. Low levels of trbc MAO is associated with temperamental characteristics such as sensation seeking and impulsiveness, and the enzyme is genetically regulated by specific transcriptional mechanisms. Transcription factor AP-2beta is important for the development of midbrain structures and AP-2beta has several binding sites in the regulatory regions of genes encoding key proteins in the monoamine transmitter systems. We have recently shown AP-2beta to be linked to personality, binge-eating disorder, treatment with antidepressant drugs, and also to trbc MAO. Regardless of whether transcriptions factors, such as AP-2beta, regulate the expression of eg, the number of monoamine neurons or a variety of candidate genes within the monoamine systems, or both, we would like to emphasize the role of transcription factors, besides polymorphisms in monoaminergic candidate genes, when explaining inter-individual differences in temperament and psychiatric vulnerability.

Variability of 5-HT2C receptor cys23ser polymorphism among European populations and vulnerability to affective disorder

Substantial evidence supports a role for dysfunction of brain serotonergic (5-HT) systems in the pathogenesis of major affective disorder, both unipolar (recurrent major depression) and bipolar.(1) Modification of serotonergic neurotransmission is pivotally implicated in the mechanism of action of antidepressant drugs(2) and also in the action of mood stabilizing agents, particularly lithium carbonate.(3) Accordingly, genes that code for the multiple subtypes of serotonin receptors that have been cloned and are expressed in brain,(4) are strong candidates for a role in the genetic etiology of affective illness. We examined a structural variant of the serotonin 2C (5-HT2C) receptor gene (HTR2C) that gives rise to a cysteine to serine substitution in the N terminal extracellular domain of the receptor protein (cys23ser),(5) in 513 patients with recurrent major depression (MDD-R), 649 patients with bipolar (BP) affective disorder and 901 normal controls. The subjects were drawn from nine European countries participating in the European Collaborative Project on Affective Disorders. There was significant variation in the frequency of the HT2CR ser23 allele among the 10 population groups included in the sample (from 24.6% in Greek control subjects to 9.2% in Scots, chi(2) = 20.9, df 9, P = 0.01). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that over and above this inter-population variability, there was a significant excess of HT2CR ser23 allele carriers in patients compared to normal controls that was demonstrable for both the MDD (chi(2) = 7.34, df 1, P = 0.006) and BP (chi(2) = 5.45, df 1, P = 0.02) patients. These findings support a possible role for genetically based structural variation in 5-HT2C receptors in the pathogenesis of major affective disorder.

Association study between novel promoter variants at the 5-HT2C receptor gene and human patients with bipolar affective disorder

Two recently described adjacent DNA polymorphisms [(GT)12-18 and (CT)4-5] in the 5'-regulatory region of 5-HT2C receptor gene were analysed in a sample of 88 bipolar patients and 162 controls, all of Spanish origin. Statistical analyses revealed no overall allele or genotype associations with the disease. A haplotype analyses between the (GT)12-18/(CT)4-5 motif and a Cys23Ser variant of the 5-HT2C gene (which had previously been genotyped in the same sample) showed similar distributions between cases and controls. Only a slight increase of s-Ser23 haplotype was found in the subgroup of bipolar women with family history of psychiatric illness (OR=1.24 [95%CI: 1.12-1.38]).

Serotonergic gene expression and depression: implications for developing novel antidepressants

The development and configuration of several neural networks is dependent on the actions of serotonin (5-HT) acting through multiple hetero- and autoreceptor subtypes. During early brain development 5-HT modulates morphogenetic activities, such as neural differentiation, axon outgrowth, and synaptic modeling. In the adult brain, midbrain raphe serotonergic neurons project to a variety of brain regions and modulate a wide range of physiological functions. Several lines of evidence indicate that genetically determined variability in serotonergic gene expression, as it has been documented for the 5-HT transporter, influences temperamental traits and may lead to psychopathological conditions with increased anxiety, depression, and aggression. Investigation of the regulation of serotonergic gene transcription and its impact on neuronal development, synaptic plasticity, and neurogenesis spur interest to identify serotonergic gene-related molecular factors underlying disease states and to develop more effective antidepressant treatment strategies. Gene targeting strategies have increasingly been integrated into investigations of brain function and along with the fading dogma of a limited capacity of neurons for regeneration and reproducibility, it is realized that gene transfer techniques using efficient viral vectors in conjunction with neuron-selective transcriptional control systems may also be applicable to complex disorders of the brain. Given the fact that the 5-HT system continues to be an important target for drug development and production, novel strategies aiming toward the modification of 5-HT function at the level of gene expression are likely to be exploited by enterprises participating actively in the introduction of alternative therapeutic approaches.

Identification of brain-specific and imprinted small nucleolar RNA genes exhibiting an unusual genomic organization

We have identified three C/D-box small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) and one H/ACA-box snoRNA in mouse and human. In mice, all four snoRNAs (MBII-13, MBII-52, MBII-85, and MBI-36) are exclusively expressed in the brain, unlike all other known snoRNAs. Two of the human RNA orthologues (HBII-52 and HBI-36) share this expression pattern, and the remainder, HBII-13 and HBII-85, are prevalently expressed in that tissue. In mice and humans, the brain-specific H/ACA box snoRNA (MBI-36 and HBI-36, respectively) is intron-encoded in the brain-specific serotonin 2C receptor gene. The three human C/D box snoRNAs map to chromosome 15q11-q13, within a region implicated in the Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), which is a neurogenetic disease resulting from a deficiency of paternal gene expression. Unlike other C/D box snoRNAs, two snoRNAs, HBII-52 and HBII-85, are encoded in a tandemly repeated array of 47 or 24 units, respectively. In mouse the homologue of HBII-52 is processed from intronic portions of the tandem repeats. Interestingly, these snoRNAs were absent from the cortex of a patient with PWS and from a PWS mouse model, demonstrating their paternal imprinting status and pointing to their potential role in the etiology of PWS. Despite displaying hallmarks of the two families of ubiquitous snoRNAs that guide 2'-O-ribose methylation and pseudouridylation of rRNA, respectively, they lack any telltale rRNA complementarity. Instead, brain-specific C/D box snoRNA HBII-52 has an 18-nt phylogenetically conserved complementarity to a critical segment of serotonin 2C receptor mRNA, pointing to a potential role in the processing of this mRNA.

Identification and characterization of a truncated variant of the 5-hydroxytryptamine(2A) receptor produced by alternative splicing

We have identified an alternatively spliced 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor (5-HT(2A)-R) transcript by PCR of human brain cDNA using degenerate oligonucleotide primers to transmembrane (TM) domains 3 and 7 of the 5-HT(2)-R subfamily. The variant contains a 118-bp insertion at the exon II/III boundary of the 5-HT(2A)-R, which produces a frame shift in the coding sequence and a premature stop codon. PCR analysis showed that the truncated receptor (5-HT(2A-tr)) and native 5-HT(2A)-R were co-expressed in most brain tissues, with the highest levels being found in hippocampus, corpus collosum, amygdala and caudate nucleus. Western blot analysis of HEK-293 cells transfected transiently with a 5-HT(2A-tr) construct showed that a 30-kDa protein was expressed on cell membranes. Co-transfection studies showed no effect of the 5-HT(2A-tr) variant on 3H-ketanserin binding to the native 5-HT(2A)-R or on functional coupling of the 5-HT(2A)-R to 5-HT-stimulated Ca(2+) mobilization. The functional significance of the 5-HT(2A-tr) variant and other truncated receptors remains to be established.

Genome-wide scan of obesity in Finnish sibpairs reveals linkage to chromosome Xq24

Obesity is a multifactorial trait with evidence of a genetic component. Obesity is very common in all westernized countries, including Finland, where 10% of the adult population has a body mass index of 32 kg/m2 or more. Here we report results from a three-stage genome-wide scan of obesity in 188 affected subjects (body mass index, > or =32 kg/m2) from 87 Finnish families. Initially, 374 markers with an average density of 10 centimorgans were genotyped. The strongest evidence for linkage to obesity was detected on chromosome Xq24, with the marker DXS6804 providing a maximum likelihood score (MLS) 3.14 in a model-free 2-point sibpair analysis. Fine-mapping in an extended sample set of 367 affected subjects from 166 families yielded a multipoint MLS of 3.48 over this X-chromosomal region. The Xq24 region contains a plausible candidate gene, serotonin 2C receptor, variants of which have been shown to predispose to obesity and type II diabetes in mice. Another chromosomal region also provided suggestive evidence of linkage, an area on 18q21, flanking the melanocortin-4 receptor, where a 2-point MLS of 2.42 with marker D18S1155 was obtained with a set of 367 affected subjects. In conclusion, our results in this Finnish study sample suggest that a locus on chromosome Xq24 influences the risk of obesity.

Deletion of the serotonin 5-HT2C receptor PDZ recognition motif prevents receptor phosphorylation and delays resensitization of receptor responses

Phosphorylation-deficient serotonin 5-HT(2C) receptors were generated to determine whether phosphorylation promotes desensitization of receptor responses. Phosphorylation of mutant 5-HT(2C) receptors that lack the carboxyl-terminal PDZ recognition motif (Ser(458)-Ser-Val-COOH; DeltaPDZ) was not detectable based on a band-shift phosphorylation assay and incorporation of (32)P. Treatment of cells stably expressing DeltaPDZ or wild-type 5-HT(2C) receptors with serotonin produced identical maximal responses and EC(50) values for eliciting [(3)H]inositol phosphate formation. In calcium imaging studies, treatment of cells expressing DeltaPDZ or wild-type 5-HT(2C) receptors with 100 nm serotonin elicited initial maximal responses and decay rates that were indistinguishable. However, a second application of serotonin 2.5 min after washout caused maximal responses that were approximately 5-fold lower with DeltaPDZ receptors relative to wild-type 5-HT(2C) receptors. After 10 min, responses of DeltaPDZ receptors recovered to wild-type 5-HT(2C) receptor levels. Receptors with single mutations at Ser(458) (S458A) or Ser(459) (S459A) decreased serotonin-mediated phosphorylation to 50% of wild-type receptor levels. Furthermore, subsequent calcium responses of S459A receptors were diminished relative to S458A and wild-type receptors. These results establish that desensitization occurs in the absence of 5-HT(2C) receptor phosphorylation and suggest that receptor phosphorylation at Ser(459) enhances resensitization of 5-HT(2C) receptor responses.

Comparative effects of continuous infusion of mCPP, Ro 60-0175 and d-fenfluramine on food intake, water intake, body weight and locomotor activity in rats

1. The aim of the study was to compare the effects of 14 day subcutaneous infusion of the 5-HT(2C) receptor agonists, m-chlorophenylpiperazine (mCPP, 12 mg kg(-1) day(-1)) and Ro 60-0175 (36 mg kg(-1) day(-1)) and the 5-HT releasing agent and re-uptake inhibitor, d-fenfluramine (6 mg kg(-1) day(-1)), on food and water intake, body weight gain and locomotion in lean male Lister hooded rats. 2. Chronic infusion of all three drugs significantly reduced food intake and attenuated body weight gain. In contrast, drug infusion did not lead to significant reductions in locomotor activity in animals assessed 2 and 13 days after pump implantation. 3. In a subsequent 14 day study that was designed to identify possible tolerance during days 7 - 14, animals were given a subcutaneous infusion of mCPP (12 mg kg(-1) day(-1)) or d-fenfluramine (6 mg kg(-1) day(-1)) for either 7 or 14 days. During the first 7 days both drugs significantly reduced body weight gain compared to saline-infused controls; however, from day 7 onwards animals withdrawn from drug treatment exhibited an increase in body weight such that by day 14 they were significantly heavier than their 14-day drug-treated counterparts. 4. Both mCPP and d-fenfluramine reduced daily food intake throughout the infusion periods. For 14-day treated animals this hypophagia was marked during the initial week of the study but only minor during the second week. In light of the sustained drug effect on body weight, the data suggest that weight loss by 5-HT(2C) receptor stimulation may be only partly dependent on changes in food consumption and that 5-HT(2C) receptor agonists may have effects on thermogenesis. 5. These data suggest tolerance does not develop to the effects of d-fenfluramine, mCPP and Ro 60-0175 on rat body weight gain.

Serotonin-2C and serotonin-1A receptor genes are not associated with psychotic symptomatology of mood disorders

The serotonergic system is involved in both pathophysiology and treatment of mood disorders. In the present study we investigated the possible influence of the polymorphisms of the serotonin-1A and 2C receptor genes on the symptomatology of mood disorders. Eighty-four inpatients affected by mood disorders (72 bipolar and 12 major depressive disorder) were assessed by the Operational Criteria Checklist for Psychotic Illness to score their lifetime psychotic symptomatology. The subjects were also typed for 5HT1A and 5HT2C variants using polymerase chain reaction techniques. No association was found between 5HT2C and psychopathology as defined by the four symptomatologic factors used as phenotype definition (mania, depression, delusion, and disorganization) even when bipolar subjects were analyzed separately. Only one subject with the 5HT1A variant was observed. Genetic variation at the 5HT1A and 5HT2C receptor genes does not, therefore, play a major role in the pathogenesis of mood disorders symptomatology. Am. J. Med. Genet. (Neuropsychiatr. Genet.) 96:161-166, 2000.

Serotonin receptor 2A, 2C, 1A genes and response to lithium prophylaxis in mood disorders

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of serotonin receptors 2A, 2C and 1A gene variants on lithium prophylactic efficacy in mood disorders. One hundred and twenty-four subjects affected by bipolar (n=102) and major depressive (n=22) disorder were followed prospectively for an average of 52 months and were typed for 5-HT2A (T102C: n=111, HTP: n=104), 5-HT2C (n=110) and 5-HT1A (n=61) variants. Both 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C variants were not associated with lithium outcome. Consideration of possible stratification effects like gender, polarity, family history, age at onset and duration of lithium treatment did not influence results. No 5-HT1A gene variant was identified. 5-HT2A and 2C variants are not, therefore, associated with lithium prophylactic efficacy in mood disorders.

Agonist-induced GTPgamma35S binding mediated by human 5-HT(2C) receptors expressed in human embryonic kidney 293 cells

The 5-HT(2C) receptor as heterologously expressed in various mammalian cells mediates inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP(3)) signal by activating G(q/11) subtypes of G proteins, but minimally promotes agonist-induced GTPgamma35S binding in membranes due to slow GTP turnover rates of the G proteins. Here we discovered robust (over 200%) agonist-induced GTPgamma35S binding mediated by the human receptor expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells, and investigated its pharmacology. Agonists concentration-dependently increased GTPgamma35S binding in isolated membranes, which was competitively blocked by antagonists. Intrinsic efficacies of agonists from GTPgamma35S binding were comparable to those from IP(3) measurement. Pertussis toxin treatment largely blocked serotonin-induced GTPgamma35S binding, serotonin high affinity sites by 70% without altering the total binding sites, and reduced IP(3) release by 40%. GTPgamma35S-bound Galpha subunits from serotonin-activated membranes were mainly Galpha(i), judging from immobilization studies with various Galpha-specific antibodies. Inhibition of forskolin-stimulated cAMP formation, however, was not observed. Apparently, the 5-HT(2C) receptor-mediated GTPgamma35S binding is a unique phenotype observed in HEK293 cells, reflecting its coupling to pertussis toxin-sensitive G(i) subtypes, which contribute to the IP(3) signal, along with pertussis toxin-insensitive G(q/11) subtypes.

A review of central 5-HT receptors and their function

It is now nearly 5 years since the last of the currently recognised 5-HT receptors was identified in terms of its cDNA sequence. Over this period, much effort has been directed towards understanding the function attributable to individual 5-HT receptors in the brain. This has been helped, in part, by the synthesis of a number of compounds that selectively interact with individual 5-HT receptor subtypes--although some 5-HT receptors still lack any selective ligands (e.g. 5-ht1E, 5-ht5A and 5-ht5B receptors). The present review provides background information for each 5-HT receptor subtype and subsequently reviews in more detail the functional responses attributed to each receptor in the brain. Clearly this latter area has moved forward in recent years and this progression is likely to continue given the level of interest associated with the actions of 5-HT. This interest is stimulated by the belief that pharmacological manipulation of the central 5-HT system will have therapeutic potential. In support of which, a number of 5-HT receptor ligands are currently utilised, or are in clinical development, to reduce the symptoms of CNS dysfunction.

Distribution and cellular localization of the serotonin type 2C receptor messenger RNA in human brain

The regional and cellular distribution of serotonin type 2C receptor messenger RNA was investigated in autopsy samples of human brain by in situ hybridization histochemistry. The main sites of serotonin receptor type 2C messenger RNA expression were the choroid plexus, cerebral cortex, hippocampus, amygdala, some components of the basal ganglia, the substantia nigra, the substantia innominata and the ventromedial hypothalamus, suggesting that this receptor might be involved in the regulation of different brain functions. Interestingly, in all regions examined, the serotonin type 2C receptor messenger RNA was always restricted to subpopulations of cells, suggesting a specific role, perhaps determined by regionality. A comparison of the in situ hybridization results with those previously obtained by means of radioligand binding experiments suggested that in most of the areas analysed the serotonin type 2C receptors were located at axon terminals.

Alternative-splicing of serotonin receptor isoforms in the pharynx and muscle of the parasitic nematode, Ascaris suum

Pharyngeal pumping is essential for nematode feeding and survival and is dramatically stimulated by serotonin (5-HT). In the present study, a cDNA pool was prepared from poly A + RNA isolated from pharynxes dissected from the parasitic nematode, Ascaris suum, and was used as a template for RT-PCR with degenerate primers designed from sequences conserved in 5-HT receptors from a variety of sources. A putative 5-HT receptor cDNA (AS1) was identified which exhibited most identity to the 5-HT2 family of receptors. AS1 was 1925 nucleotides, did not appear to be trans-spliced and contained a 3' untranslated region of 127 nucleotides with a polyadenylation signal (ATTAAA) and a short poly A+ tail. The coding region predicted a protein of 532 amino acids with a molecular weight of 60 176. When AS1 was transiently expressed in COS-7 cells, isolated membranes exhibited the high affinity, saturable binding of [125I]LSD. More importantly, [125I]LSD binding was inhibited by 5-HT, but not other biogenic amines, supporting the identification of AS1 as a 5-HT receptor. Additional cDNAs identical, in part, to AS1 were also identified. AS1deltaIV lacked a predicted 42 amino acids at the carboxy terminus of the third intracellular loop, while AS2 and AS3 contained different COOH-termini, regions implicated in G-protein coupling in other heptahelical receptors. A portion of the gene (5htn) encoding AS1 also was cloned and sequenced. This genomic fragment was about 10 kb, contained the entire AS1 open reading frame and included eight exons and seven introns. From this analysis, it appears that these different AS cDNAs were generated by alternative-splicing, AS1deltaIV from the deletion of exon IV, and AS2 and AS3 from the use of alternative sites within exon VII as 5' splice acceptor sites for exon VIII. Using RT-PCR and primers specific for each of the isoforms, AS1 -3 appeared to be expressed in pharynx, while only AS1 and AS2 were present in body wall muscle. More importantly, the deletion of exon IV appeared to be associated exclusively with AS1 in pharynx and AS2 in muscle.

Serotonin-2C receptor pre-mRNA editing in rat brain and in vitro by splice site variants of the interferon-inducible double-stranded RNA-specific adenosine deaminase ADAR1

The interferon-inducible RNA-specific adenosine deaminase (ADAR1) is an RNA editing enzyme implicated in the site-selective deamination of adenosine to inosine in cellular pre-mRNAs. The pre-mRNA for the rat serotonin-2C receptor (5-HT2CR) possesses four editing sites (A, B, C, and D), which undergo A-to-I nucleotide conversions that alter the signaling function of the encoded G-protein-coupled receptor. Measurements of 5-HT2CR pre-mRNA editing in vitro revealed site-specific deamination catalyzed by ADAR1. Three splice site variants, ADAR1-a, -b, and -c, all efficiently edited the A site of 5-HT2CR pre-mRNA, but the D site did not serve as an efficient substrate for any of the ADAR1 variants. Mutational analysis of the three double-stranded (ds) RNA binding motifs present in ADAR1 revealed a different relative importance of the individual dsRNA binding motifs for deamination of the A site of 5-HT2CR and synthetic dsRNA substrates. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analyses demonstrated that the 5-HT2CR pre-mRNA was most highly expressed in the choroid plexus of rat brain. However, ADAR1 and the related deaminase ADAR2 showed significant expression in all regions of the brain examined, including cortex, hippocampus, olfactory bulb, and striatum, where the 5-HT2CR pre-mRNA was extensively edited.

RNA editing of the human serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine 2C receptor silences constitutive activity

RNA transcripts encoding the serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine 2C (5-HT2C) receptor (5-HT2CR) undergo adenosine-to-inosine RNA editing events at up to five specific sites. Compared with rat brain, human brain samples expressed higher levels of RNA transcripts encoding the amino acids valine-serine-valine (5-HT2C-VSV) and valine-glycine-valine (5-HT2C-VGV) at positions 156, 158, and 160, respectively. Agonist stimulation of the nonedited human receptor (5-HT2C-INI) and the edited 5-HT2C-VSV and 5-HT2C-VGV receptor variants stably expressed in NIH-3T3 fibroblasts demonstrated that serotonergic agonists were less potent at the edited receptors. Competition binding experiments revealed a guanine nucleotide-sensitive serotonin high affinity state only for the 5-HT2C-INI receptor; the loss of high affinity agonist binding to the edited receptor demonstrates that RNA editing generates unique 5-HT2CRs that couple less efficiently to G proteins. This reduced G protein coupling for the edited isoforms is primarily due to silencing of the constitutive activity of the nonedited 5-HT2CR. The distinctions in agonist potency and constitutive activity suggest that different edited 5-HT2CRs exhibit distinct responses to serotonergic ligands and further imply that RNA editing represents a novel mechanism for controlling physiological signaling at serotonergic synapses.

Identification of a new polymorphism in the 3'-untranslated region of the human serotonin receptor 2C (5-HT2C) gene

We identified a polymorphism (2831T > G) in the 3'-untranslated region of 5-HT2C receptor gene, approximately 100 kb from a previously reported coding sequence polymorphism, 796G > C (C23S). Allele frequencies were 0.90 (T) and 0.10 (G) and cosegregation analysis of the alleles at the two loci demonstrated frequencies of 0.82 (GT), 0.08 (CT), 0.10 (GG), and 0 (CC). The increased informativity gained by analysis of both polymorphisms will prove useful for future studies of this gene in X-linked neuropsychiatric disorders.

Ovarian steroid effects on serotonin 1A, 2A and 2C receptor mRNA in macaque hypothalamus

This study mapped the location of serotonin (5HT) 1A, 2A and 2C receptor mRNA expression in the female macaque hypothalamus and determined whether the expression was regulated by estrogen plus or minus progesterone treatment using in situ hybridization (ISH) and densitometric analysis of autoradiographic films. The experimental groups of pigtail macaques (Macaca nemestrina) were spayed controls (n=4), estrogen treated (28 days, n=4) and estrogen+progesterone-treated animals (14 days estrogen+14 days estrogen and progesterone, n=4). Monkey specific 5HT1A (432 bp), 2A (411 bp) and 2C (294 bp) receptor probes were generated with PCR. Moderate 5HT1A receptor hybridization signal was detected in the preoptic area and the ventromedial nuclei. Less intense 5HT1A receptor signal was detected in a contiguous area from the dorsomedial nuclei through the posterior hypothalamus and in the supramammillary area. There was no change in 5HT1A receptor hybridization signal in any area with ovarian steroid treatment. Dense 5HT2A receptor hybridization signal was morphologically confined to the paraventricular, supraoptic, and mammillary nuclei and the external capsule of the thalamus. Light 5HT2A mRNA signal was inconsistently observed in the ventromedial nuclei. There was no change in the 5HT2A receptor hybridization signal in any area with ovarian steroid treatment. The 5HT2C receptor mRNA was widely distributed in the macaque hypothalamus. The preoptic area and anterior hypothalamus were largely positive for 5HT2C mRNA with a more concentrated signal in a narrow periventricular area. Dense 5HT2C receptor signal was detected lateral to the ventromedial nuclei (capsule), in the tuberomammillary nuclei, arcuate nucleus, dorsomedial nuclei, infundibular area and choroid plexus. Moderate 5HT2C receptor signal was detected in the ventromedial nuclei, lateral hypothalamus and dorsal to posterior hypothalamus. There was a significant decrease in total 5HT2C mRNA hybridization signal with ovarian steroid treatment in the ventromedial nuclei, dorsal and posterior hypothalamus. In summary, macaque 5HT1A, 2A and 2C receptor mRNAs are located in distinct hypothalamic loci which play a role in a number of autonomic functions and behavior. Ovarian steroids decreased the expression of 5HT2C receptor mRNA in the ventromedial nuclei, dorsal and posterior hypothalamus. The expression of 5HT1A and 5HT2A receptor mRNA was not altered by treatment with ovarian steroids.

Identification and characterization of RNA editing events within the 5-HT2C receptor

RNA editing is a post-transcriptional modification that generates an RNA transcript with a nucleotide sequence different from its gene. We have recently discovered RNA editing events, involving the conversion of adenosine bases to inosine residues, within the RNA encoding the serotonin 2C (5-HT2C) receptor. Editing events at four major positions, termed A, B, C and D, as well as one minor site termed C', are predicted to alter amino acids within the second intracellular loop of the G-protein coupled 5-HT2C receptor. Editing is mediated by at least two members of a family of adenosine deaminases and is contingent upon the presence of an extensive RNA duplex structure formed by exonic and intronic sequences of 5-HT2C receptor precursor messenger RNA (pre-mRNA). This critical secondary structure has been observed within brain pre-mRNA derived from four species; the isolation of edited 5-HT2C receptor transcripts from these samples further confirms the evolutionary conservation of this RNA processing event. Among members of the 5-HT2 receptor family, editing within second intracellular loop RNA is unique to the 5-HT2C receptor. Editing within the 5-HT2C receptor generates receptor isoforms that differ in their ability to interact with the phospholipase C signaling cascade in a transfected cell line, suggesting that this RNA processing event may contribute to the modulation of serotonergic neurotransmission in the central nervous system.

The molecular biology of serotonin receptors: therapeutic implications for the interface of mood and psychosis

This review summarizes the molecular biology of serotonin (5-HT; 5-hydroxytryptamine) receptors and indicates the potential relevance of this information for the treatment of mood and psychotic disorders. At least 15 separate subtypes of 5-HT receptors have been identified by molecular cloning techniques to be distinct genetic entities. Subtle differences in the primary amino acid sequences of these receptors can yield large differences in ligand selectivity. Additionally, it has recently been discovered that drugs such as atypical antipsychotic drugs and serotonin-selective reuptake inhibitors may interact with a large number of heretofore unknown 5-HT receptors. Thus clozapine, for instance, has high affinity for at least four separate 5-HT receptors, and it is unknown which of these receptors is essential for its unique therapeutic efficacy. One way to approach these questions is to test subtype-selective agents, although there are few of these currently available. Approaches to the design of subtype-selective ligands are described, including structure-based drug design and combinatorial approaches. Modes of regulation of 5-HT receptors are also summarized, and it is emphasized that antipsychotic drugs and antidepressants likely exert their effects via nontranscriptional and posttranslational means. Understanding the cellular mechanisms by which 5-HT receptors are regulated by psychopharmacologic agents is likely to yield novel insights into drug action.

Endogenous serotonin-2A and -2C receptors in Balb/c-3T3 cells revealed in serotonin-free medium: desensitization and down-regulation by serotonin

We studied the endogenous expression of the serotonin-2A (5-hydroxytryptamine2A, 5-HT2A) 5-HT2C, and a splice-variant of the 5-HT2C receptor in murine Balb/c-3T3 fibroblast cells that is revealed when these cells are maintained in medium containing 5-HT-free serum. RNA editing of the 5-HT2C receptor was exclusively at a single brain-specific site. Addition of 5-HT (EC50 = 23 +/- 2.9 nM) induced an immediate release of calcium from an ionomycin-sensitive intracellular store by coupling to a pertussis toxin-insensitive pathway. The 5-HT-induced calcium mobilization displayed a 5-HT-2-like pharmacology, and ligand binding analyses indicated the presence of specific binding sites (27.5 +/- 2 fmol/mg protein) with a 5-HT2A-like pharmacology. Although the 5-HT2A receptor site was predominant, the smaller component of 5-HT2C receptors alone was sufficient to mediate a maximal calcium response. The 5-HT-induced increase in [Ca2+]i was reversibly inhibited by >75% following a 12-hr pretreatment (T1/2 = 2 hr) with 5-HT (EC50 = 400 nM). Extended treatment (24-96 hr) with 5-HT induced a complete functional desensitization that was associated with a partial (60%) reduction in 5-HT2 receptor number, implicating both receptor down-regulation and post-receptor mechanisms in 5-HT-induced desensitization. Long-term (hours to days) treatment with 5-HT did not modulate DNA synthesis, cell proliferation, or transformation in Balb/c-3T3 cells. These results demonstrate that Balb/c-3T3 cells express endogenous 5-HT2 receptors that are desensitized by the 5-HT present in normal serum, illustrating the importance of growth conditions in the identification of receptor responsiveness. The lack of proliferative response to 5-HT in Balb/c-3T3 suggests a putative role of desensitization as a "safety valve" to prevent abnormal cell growth during sustained 5-HT2 receptor activation.

Effect of chronic m-CPP on locomotion, hypophagia, plasma corticosterone and 5-HT2C receptor levels in the rat

1. The present study examined 5-HT2C receptor agonist-induced behavioural tolerance and 5-HT2C receptor down-regulation in adult rat brain. The effect of chronic subcutaneous infusion of the 5-HT2C receptor agonist, m-chlorophenylpiperazine (m-CPP, 10 mg kg(-1), day(-1)), for 14 days was examined on daily food intake, the ability of acute m-CPP (2.5 mg kg(-1), i.p.) to induce hypolocomotion in a novel arena and elevate plasma corticosterone levels and on ex vivo cortical [3H]-mesulergine binding and hippocampal 5-HT2C receptor protein levels. 2. Before chronic infusion, m-CPP (2.5 mg kg(-1), i.p.) attenuated the number of turns and rears made in a novel open field arena. In contrast, while m-CPP still elicited this hypolocomotion following 14 days, saline infusion, no such hypolocomotion occurred in rats given chronic m-CPP (10 mg kg(-1) day(-1)), indicating that almost complete tachyphylaxis of this behaviour occurred with chronic 5-HT2C receptor agonist injection. 3. During chronic infusion of m-CPP, rats consumed less food per day than saline-treated controls. Acute challenge with m-CPP following two weeks, treatment still attenuated food intake over the next four hours (by 43% and 30%, respectively from that on the previous day) in saline and m-CPP infusion groups, showing that only partial tolerance to 5-HT2C receptor agonist-induced hypophagia occurred. 4. In naive home cage rats, plasma corticosterone was elevated in a dose-dependent manner 35 min after m-CPP injection (0.5, 1 and 3 mg kg(-1), i.p.) but levels were comparable to control values 16 h after m-CPP (2, 5 and 10 mg kg(-1), i.p.). Sixteen hours after a single m-CPP injection (2.5 mg kg(-1), i.p.), plasma corticosterone levels were comparable in a group of rats which had received 14 days infusion of m-CPP or saline. However, following a similar acute m-CPP injection (2.5 mg kg(-1), i.p., - 16 h) in rats previously infused for 14 days with m-CPP, plasma corticosterone levels were lower than those in a separate group which received no chronic infusions (but only acute m-CPP injection), even though the plasma m-CPP levels were comparable in both groups. The data are consistent with the proposal that chronic m-CPP induced some down-regulation of hypothalamic 5-HT2C receptors which contribute, in a tonic manner, to plasma corticosterone secretion under the conditions investigated. 5. Chronic m-CPP infusion reduced the amount of [3H]-mesulergine binding (by 27%, without altering the KD) in membranes prepared from parietal/occipital/temporal cortex (under conditions to exclude binding to 5-HT2A receptors) and 5-HT2C receptor protein-like immunoreactive levels measured by radioimmunoassay in the hippocampus by 38%, confirming that 5-HT2C receptor down-regulation had occurred. 6. Even after 14 days m-CPP infusion only partial behavioural tolerance and 5-HT2C receptor down-regulation were observed, which may vary in different brain regions of the rat. Thus the hypophagia produced by m-CPP may involve activation of 5-HT2C receptors in the hypothalamus, where there is a greater receptor reserve or which are more resistant to agonist-induced down-regulation than 5-HT2C receptors in limbic areas (striatum and nucleus accumbens) mediating m-CPP-induced hypolocomotion.

Generation of anti-peptide antibodies against serotonin 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors

Anti-peptide antibodies were generated against several 13-17 amino acid regions of rat serotonin 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors. Peptides containing terminal cysteine residues were conjugated to bovine serum albumin (BSA) and ovalbumin (OVA) with the cross-linking reagent sulfo-SMCC (sulfosuccinimidyl 4-(N-maleimidomethyl) cyclohexane-1-carboxylate). Both the carrier protein and the number of peptide molecules per carrier molecule were changed during the immunization schedule. For the early immunizations, immunogens were BSA-peptides at ratios of 8-27 mol peptide per mol BSA. For the later boosts, immunogens were OVA-peptides at ratios of 1-2 mol peptide per mol OVA. The peptide constructs were used to immunize rabbits and chickens. Anti-peptide antibodies were purified from sera (rabbits) or egg yolks (hens) using peptide matrices. Cell lines expressing similar densities of rat 5-HT2A or 5-HT2C receptors were used to monitor the specificity of purified antibodies on immunoblots and in immunocytochemistry. A total of five out of the six rabbit antibodies were positive on immunoblots (three anti-5-HT2A and two anti-5-HT2C) and four were also positive in immunocytochemistry (three anti-5-HT2A and one anti-5-HT2C). None of the anti-peptide chicken antibodies were useful on immunoblots or in immunocytochemistry. Since there is a paucity of high affinity reagents selective for 5-HT2A or 5-HT2C receptors, these rabbit antibodies will be useful tools. The methods used to generate site-directed antibodies specific for 5-HT2A or 5-HT2C receptors should be applicable to other proteins.