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Mukhaleva E, Ma N, van der Velden WJC, Gogoshin G, Branciamore S, Bhattacharya S, Rodin AS, Vaidehi N. Bayesian network models identify cooperative GPCR:G protein interactions that contribute to G protein coupling. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107362. [PMID: 38735478 PMCID: PMC11176750 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cooperative interactions in protein-protein interfaces demonstrate the interdependency or the linked network-like behavior and their effect on the coupling of proteins. Cooperative interactions also could cause ripple or allosteric effects at a distance in protein-protein interfaces. Although they are critically important in protein-protein interfaces, it is challenging to determine which amino acid pair interactions are cooperative. In this work, we have used Bayesian network modeling, an interpretable machine learning method, combined with molecular dynamics trajectories to identify the residue pairs that show high cooperativity and their allosteric effect in the interface of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) complexes with Gα subunits. Our results reveal six GPCR:Gα contacts that are common to the different Gα subtypes and show strong cooperativity in the formation of interface. Both the C terminus helix5 and the core of the G protein are codependent entities and play an important role in GPCR coupling. We show that a promiscuous GPCR coupling to different Gα subtypes, makes all the GPCR:Gα contacts that are specific to each Gα subtype (Gαs, Gαi, and Gαq). This work underscores the potential of data-driven Bayesian network modeling in elucidating the intricate dependencies and selectivity determinants in GPCR:G protein complexes, offering valuable insights into the dynamic nature of these essential cellular signaling components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizaveta Mukhaleva
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA; Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Ning Ma
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Wijnand J C van der Velden
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Grigoriy Gogoshin
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Sergio Branciamore
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA; Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA.
| | - Supriyo Bhattacharya
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA.
| | - Andrei S Rodin
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA; Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA.
| | - Nagarajan Vaidehi
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA; Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA.
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52
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Duan J, He XH, Li SJ, Xu HE. Cryo-electron microscopy for GPCR research and drug discovery in endocrinology and metabolism. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2024; 20:349-365. [PMID: 38424377 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-024-00957-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest family of cell surface receptors, with many GPCRs having crucial roles in endocrinology and metabolism. Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) has revolutionized the field of structural biology, particularly regarding GPCRs, over the past decade. Since the first pair of GPCR structures resolved by cryo-EM were published in 2017, the number of GPCR structures resolved by cryo-EM has surpassed the number resolved by X-ray crystallography by 30%, reaching >650, and the number has doubled every ~0.63 years for the past 6 years. At this pace, it is predicted that the structure of 90% of all human GPCRs will be completed within the next 5-7 years. This Review highlights the general structural features and principles that guide GPCR ligand recognition, receptor activation, G protein coupling, arrestin recruitment and regulation by GPCR kinases. The Review also highlights the diversity of GPCR allosteric binding sites and how allosteric ligands could dictate biased signalling that is selective for a G protein pathway or an arrestin pathway. Finally, the authors use the examples of glycoprotein hormone receptors and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor to illustrate the effect of cryo-EM on understanding GPCR biology in endocrinology and metabolism, as well as on GPCR-related endocrine diseases and drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Duan
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Xin-Heng He
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shu-Jie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - H Eric Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
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53
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Schüß C, Behr V, Beck-Sickinger AG. Illuminating the neuropeptide Y 4 receptor and its ligand pancreatic polypeptide from a structural, functional, and therapeutic perspective. Neuropeptides 2024; 105:102416. [PMID: 38430725 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2024.102416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
The neuropeptide Y4 receptor (Y4R), a rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) and the hormone pancreatic polypeptide (PP) are members of the neuropeptide Y family consisting of four receptors (Y1R, Y2R, Y4R, Y5R) and three highly homologous peptide ligands (neuropeptide Y, peptide YY, PP). In this family, the Y4R is of particular interest as it is the only subtype with high affinity to PP over NPY. The Y4R, as a mediator of PP signaling, has a pivotal role in appetite regulation and energy homeostasis, offering potential avenues for the treatment of metabolic disorders such as obesity. PP as anorexigenic peptide is released postprandial from the pancreas in response to food intake, induces satiety signals and contributes to hamper excessive food intake. Moreover, this system was also described to be associated with different types of cancer: overexpression of Y4R have been found in human adenocarcinoma cells, while elevated levels of PP are related to the development of pancreatic endocrine tumors. The pharmacological relevance of the Y4R advanced the search for potent and selective ligands for this receptor subtype, which will be significantly progressed through the elucidation of the active state PP-Y4R cryo-EM structure. This review summarizes the development of novel PP-derived ligands, like Obinepitide as dual Y2R/Y4R agonist in clinical trials or UR-AK86c as small hexapeptide agonist with picomolar affinity, as well as the first allosteric modulators that selectively target the Y4R, e.g. VU0506013 as potent Y4R positive allosteric modulator or (S)-VU0637120 as allosteric antagonist. Here, we provide valuable insights into the complex physiological functions of the Y4R and PP and the pharmacological relevance of the system in appetite regulation to open up new avenues for the development of tool compounds for targeted therapies with potential applications in metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna Schüß
- Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Leipzig University, Germany.
| | - Victoria Behr
- Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Leipzig University, Germany
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54
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Schlimgen RR, Peterson FC, Heukers R, Smit MJ, McCorvy JD, Volkman BF. Structural basis for selectivity and antagonism in extracellular GPCR-nanobodies. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4611. [PMID: 38816420 PMCID: PMC11139983 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49000-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are pivotal therapeutic targets, but their complex structure poses challenges for effective drug design. Nanobodies, or single-domain antibodies, have emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy to target GPCRs, offering advantages over traditional small molecules and antibodies. However, an incomplete understanding of the structural features enabling GPCR-nanobody interactions has limited their development. In this study, we investigate VUN701, a nanobody antagonist targeting the atypical chemokine receptor 3 (ACKR3). We determine that an extended CDR3 loop is required for ACKR3 binding. Uncommon in most nanobodies, an extended CDR3 is prevalent in GPCR-targeting nanobodies. Combining experimental and computational approaches, we map an inhibitory ACKR3-VUN701 interface and define a distinct conformational mechanism for GPCR inactivation. Our results provide insights into class A GPCR-nanobody selectivity and suggest a strategy for the development of these new therapeutic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman R Schlimgen
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA
| | - Francis C Peterson
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA
| | - Raimond Heukers
- Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martine J Smit
- Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - John D McCorvy
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA
| | - Brian F Volkman
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA.
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55
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Kosar M, Sarott RC, Sykes DA, Viray AEG, Vitale RM, Tomašević N, Li X, Ganzoni RLZ, Kicin B, Reichert L, Patej KJ, Gómez-Bouzó U, Guba W, McCormick PJ, Hua T, Gruber CW, Veprintsev DB, Frank JA, Grether U, Carreira EM. Flipping the GPCR Switch: Structure-Based Development of Selective Cannabinoid Receptor 2 Inverse Agonists. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2024; 10:956-968. [PMID: 38799662 PMCID: PMC11117691 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.3c01461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
We report a blueprint for the rational design of G protein coupled receptor (GPCR) ligands with a tailored functional response. The present study discloses the structure-based design of cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) selective inverse agonists (S)-1 and (R)-1, which were derived from privileged agonist HU-308 by introduction of a phenyl group at the gem-dimethylheptyl side chain. Epimer (R)-1 exhibits high affinity for CB2R with Kd = 39.1 nM and serves as a platform for the synthesis of a wide variety of probes. Notably, for the first time these fluorescent probes retain their inverse agonist functionality, high affinity, and selectivity for CB2R independent of linker and fluorophore substitution. Ligands (S)-1, (R)-1, and their derivatives act as inverse agonists in CB2R-mediated cAMP as well as G protein recruitment assays and do not trigger β-arrestin-receptor association. Furthermore, no receptor activation was detected in live cell ERK1/2 phosphorylation and Ca2+-release assays. Confocal fluorescence imaging experiments with (R)-7 (Alexa488) and (R)-9 (Alexa647) probes employing BV-2 microglial cells visualized CB2R expressed at endogenous levels. Finally, molecular dynamics simulations corroborate the initial docking data in which inverse agonists restrict movement of toggle switch Trp2586.48 and thereby stabilize CB2R in its inactive state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miroslav Kosar
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Roman C. Sarott
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - David A. Sykes
- Faculty
of Medicine & Health Sciences, University
of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, U.K.
- Centre
of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham
and University of Nottingham, https://www.birmingham-nottingham.ac.uk/compare
| | - Alexander E. G. Viray
- Department
of Chemical Physiology & Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098, United States
| | - Rosa Maria Vitale
- Institute
of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research
Council, Via Campi Flegrei
34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Nataša Tomašević
- Center for
Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University
of Vienna, Schwarzspanierstrasse
17, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Xiaoting Li
- iHuman
Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Rudolf L. Z. Ganzoni
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Bilal Kicin
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Lisa Reichert
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Kacper J. Patej
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Uxía Gómez-Bouzó
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang Guba
- Roche
Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel,
F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Peter J. McCormick
- Department
of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University
of Liverpool, Ashton
Street, Liverpool L69 3GE, U.K.
| | - Tian Hua
- iHuman
Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Christian W. Gruber
- Center for
Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University
of Vienna, Schwarzspanierstrasse
17, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Dmitry B. Veprintsev
- Faculty
of Medicine & Health Sciences, University
of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, U.K.
- Centre
of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham
and University of Nottingham, https://www.birmingham-nottingham.ac.uk/compare
| | - James A. Frank
- Department
of Chemical Physiology & Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098, United States
- Vollum
Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098, United States
| | - Uwe Grether
- Roche
Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel,
F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Erick M. Carreira
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
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56
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Kuramoto R, Kise R, Kanno M, Kawakami K, Ikuta T, Makita N, Inoue A. Therapeutic potentials of nonpeptidic V2R agonists for partial cNDI-causing V2R mutants. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0303507. [PMID: 38748623 PMCID: PMC11095762 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Loss-of-function mutations in the type 2 vasopressin receptor (V2R) are a major cause of congenital nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (cNDI). In the context of partial cNDI, the response to desmopressin (dDAVP) is partially, but not entirely, diminished. For those with the partial cNDI, restoration of V2R function would offer a prospective therapeutic approach. In this study, we revealed that OPC-51803 (OPC5) and its structurally related V2R agonists could functionally restore V2R mutants causing partial cNDI by inducing prolonged signal activation. The OPC5-related agonists exhibited functional selectivity by inducing signaling through the Gs-cAMP pathway while not recruiting β-arrestin1/2. We found that six cNDI-related V2R partial mutants (V882.53M, Y1283.41S, L1614.47P, T2736.37M, S3298.47R and S3338.51del) displayed varying degrees of plasma membrane expression levels and exhibited moderately impaired signaling function. Several OPC5-related agonists induced higher cAMP responses than AVP at V2R mutants after prolonged agonist stimulation, suggesting their potential effectiveness in compensating impaired V2R-mediated function. Furthermore, docking analysis revealed that the differential interaction of agonists with L3127.40 caused altered coordination of TM7, potentially contributing to the functional selectivity of signaling. These findings suggest that nonpeptide V2R agonists could hold promise as potential drug candidates for addressing partial cNDI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritsuki Kuramoto
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Ryoji Kise
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Mayu Kanno
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Kouki Kawakami
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Ikuta
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Noriko Makita
- Division of Nephrology and Endocrinology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Asuka Inoue
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
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Crauwels C, Heidig SL, Díaz A, Vranken WF. Large-scale structure-informed multiple sequence alignment of proteins with SIMSApiper. Bioinformatics 2024; 40:btae276. [PMID: 38648741 PMCID: PMC11099654 DOI: 10.1093/bioinformatics/btae276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARY SIMSApiper is a Nextflow pipeline that creates reliable, structure-informed MSAs of thousands of protein sequences faster than standard structure-based alignment methods. Structural information can be provided by the user or collected by the pipeline from online resources. Parallelization with sequence identity-based subsets can be activated to significantly speed up the alignment process. Finally, the number of gaps in the final alignment can be reduced by leveraging the position of conserved secondary structure elements. AVAILABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION The pipeline is implemented using Nextflow, Python3, and Bash. It is publicly available on github.com/Bio2Byte/simsapiper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Crauwels
- Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, ULB-VUB, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
- AI Lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
| | - Sophie-Luise Heidig
- Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, ULB-VUB, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
- AI Lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
- Evolutionary Biology & Ecology, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
| | - Adrián Díaz
- Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, ULB-VUB, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
- AI Lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
| | - Wim F Vranken
- Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, ULB-VUB, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
- AI Lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
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58
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Méndez-Luna D, Guzmán-Velázquez S, Padilla-Martínez II, García-Sánchez JR, Bello M, García-Vázquez JB, Mendoza-Figueroa HL, Correa-Basurto J. GPER binding site detection and description: A flavonoid-based docking and molecular dynamics simulations study. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 239:106474. [PMID: 38307214 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2024.106474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Flavonoids, a phenolic compounds class widely distributed in the plant kingdom, have attracted much interest for their implications on several health and disease processes. Usually, the consumption of this type of compounds is approximately 1 g/d, primarily obtained from cereals, chocolate, and dry legumes ensuring its beneficial role in maintaining the homeostasis of the human body. In this context, in cancer disease prominent data points to the role of flavonoids as adjuvant treatment aimed at the regression of the disease. GPER, an estrogen receptor on the cell surface, has been postulated as a probable orchestrator of the beneficial effects of several flavonoids through modulation/inhibition of various mechanisms that lead to cancer progression. Therefore, applying pocket and cavity protein detection and docking and molecular dynamics simulations (MD), we generate, from a cluster composed of 39 flavonoids, crucial insights into the potential role as GPER ligands, of Puerarin, Isoquercetin, Kaempferol 3-O-glucoside and Petunidin 3-O-glucoside, aglycones whose sugar moiety delimits a new described sugar-acceptor sub-cavity into the cavity binding site on the receptor, as well as of the probable activation mechanism of the receptor and the pivotal residues involved in it. Altogether, our results shed light on the potential use of the aforementioned flavonoids as GPER ligands and for further evaluations in in vitro and in vivo assays to elucidate their probable anti-cancer activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Méndez-Luna
- Laboratorio de Diseño y Desarrollo de Nuevos Fármacos e Innovación Biotecnológica, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón s/n, Col. Casco de Santo Tomas, Alcaldía Miguel Hidalgo, C.P. 11340 Ciudad de México, Mexico; Departamento de Fisiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Zacatenco, Av. Wilfrido Massieu 399, Col. Nueva Industrial Vallejo, Alcaldía Gustavo A. Madero, C.P. 07738 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Sonia Guzmán-Velázquez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Zacatenco, Av. Wilfrido Massieu 399, Col. Nueva Industrial Vallejo, Alcaldía Gustavo A. Madero, C.P. 07738 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Itzia-Irene Padilla-Martínez
- Laboratorio de Química Supramolecular y Nanociencias, Unidad Profesional Interdisciplinaria de Biotecnología, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Av. Acueducto s/n, Barrio la Laguna Ticomán, Alcaldía Gustavo A. Madero, C.P. 07340 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - José-Rubén García-Sánchez
- Laboratorio de Oncología Molecular y Estrés Oxidativo, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón, s/n, Col. Casco de Santo Tomas, Alcaldía Miguel Hidalgo, C.P. 11340 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Martiniano Bello
- Laboratorio de Diseño y Desarrollo de Nuevos Fármacos e Innovación Biotecnológica, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón s/n, Col. Casco de Santo Tomas, Alcaldía Miguel Hidalgo, C.P. 11340 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Juan-Benjamín García-Vázquez
- Laboratorio de Diseño y Desarrollo de Nuevos Fármacos e Innovación Biotecnológica, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón s/n, Col. Casco de Santo Tomas, Alcaldía Miguel Hidalgo, C.P. 11340 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Humberto-Lubriel Mendoza-Figueroa
- Laboratorio de Diseño y Desarrollo de Nuevos Fármacos e Innovación Biotecnológica, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón s/n, Col. Casco de Santo Tomas, Alcaldía Miguel Hidalgo, C.P. 11340 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - José Correa-Basurto
- Laboratorio de Diseño y Desarrollo de Nuevos Fármacos e Innovación Biotecnológica, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón s/n, Col. Casco de Santo Tomas, Alcaldía Miguel Hidalgo, C.P. 11340 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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59
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Weng Y, Yang X, Zhang Q, Chen Y, Xu Y, Zhu C, Xie Q, Wang Y, Yang H, Liu M, Lu W, Song G. Structural insight into the dual-antagonistic mechanism of AB928 on adenosine A 2 receptors. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024; 67:986-995. [PMID: 38319473 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-023-2459-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
The adenosine subfamily G protein-coupled receptors A2AR and A2BR have been identified as promising cancer immunotherapy candidates. One of the A2AR/A2BR dual antagonists, AB928, has progressed to a phase II clinical trial to treat rectal cancer. However, the precise mechanism underlying its dual-antagonistic properties remains elusive. Herein, we report crystal structures of the A2AR complexed with AB928 and a selective A2AR antagonist 2-118. The structures revealed a common binding mode on A2AR, wherein the ligands established extensive interactions with residues from the orthosteric and secondary pockets. In contrast, the cAMP assay and A2AR and A2BR molecular dynamics simulations indicated that the ligands adopted distinct binding modes on A2BR. Detailed analysis of their chemical structures suggested that AB928 readily adapted to the A2BR pocket, while 2-118 did not due to intrinsic differences. This disparity potentially accounted for the difference in inhibitory efficacy between A2BR and A2AR. This study serves as a valuable structural template for the future development of selective or dual inhibitors targeting A2AR/A2BR for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Weng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Xinyu Yang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Qiansen Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China.
| | - Ying Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Yueming Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Chenyu Zhu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Qiong Xie
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yonghui Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Huaiyu Yang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Mingyao Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Weiqiang Lu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China.
| | - Gaojie Song
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China.
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60
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Schulte G, Scharf MM, Bous J, Voss JH, Grätz L, Kozielewicz P. Frizzleds act as dynamic pharmacological entities. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2024; 45:419-429. [PMID: 38594145 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2024.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
The Frizzled family of transmembrane receptors (FZD1-10) belongs to the class F of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). FZDs bind to and are activated by Wingless/Int1 (WNT) proteins. The WNT/FZD signaling system regulates crucial aspects of developmental biology and stem-cell regulation. Dysregulation of WNT/FZD communication can lead to developmental defects and diseases such as cancer and fibrosis. Recent insight into the activation mechanisms of FZDs has underlined that protein dynamics and conserved microswitches are essential for FZD-mediated information flow and build the basis for targeting these receptors pharmacologically. In this review, we summarize recent advances in our understanding of FZD activation, and how novel concepts merge and collide with existing dogmas in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunnar Schulte
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, S-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Magdalena M Scharf
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, S-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Julien Bous
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, S-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan Hendrik Voss
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, S-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lukas Grätz
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, S-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pawel Kozielewicz
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, S-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
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61
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Isu UH, Polasa A, Moradi M. Differential Behavior of Conformational Dynamics in Active and Inactive States of Cannabinoid Receptor 1. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.17.589939. [PMID: 38659869 PMCID: PMC11042334 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.17.589939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptor CB1 is a G protein-coupled receptor that regulates critical physiological processes including pain, appetite, and cognition. Understanding the conformational dynamics of CB1 associated with transitions between inactive and active signaling states is imperative for developing targeted modulators. Using microsecond-level all-atom molecular dynamics simulations, we identified marked differences in the conformational ensembles of inactive and active CB1 states in apo conditions. The inactive state exhibited substantially increased structural heterogeneity and plasticity compared to the more rigidified active state in the absence of stabilizing ligands. Transmembrane helices TM3 and TM7 were identified as distinguishing factors modulating the state-dependent dynamics. TM7 displayed amplified fluctuations selectively in the inactive state simulations attributed to disruption of conserved electrostatic contacts anchoring it to surrounding helices in the active state. Additionally, we identified significant reorganization of key salt bridge and hydrogen bond networks known to control CB1 activation between states. For instance, a conserved D213-Y224 hydrogen bond and D184-K192 salt bridge interactions showed marked rearrangements between the states. Collectively, these findings reveal the specialized role of TM7 in directing state-dependent CB1 dynamics through electrostatic switch mechanisms. By elucidating the intrinsic enhanced flexibility of inactive CB1, this study provides valuable insights into the conformational landscape enabling functional transitions. Our perspective advances understanding of CB1 activation mechanisms and offers opportunities for structure-based drug discovery targeting the state-specific conformational dynamics of this receptor.
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62
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Szukiewicz D. CX3CL1 (Fractalkine)-CX3CR1 Axis in Inflammation-Induced Angiogenesis and Tumorigenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4679. [PMID: 38731899 PMCID: PMC11083509 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The chemotactic cytokine fractalkine (FKN, chemokine CX3CL1) has unique properties resulting from the combination of chemoattractants and adhesion molecules. The soluble form (sFKN) has chemotactic properties and strongly attracts T cells and monocytes. The membrane-bound form (mFKN) facilitates diapedesis and is responsible for cell-to-cell adhesion, especially by promoting the strong adhesion of leukocytes (monocytes) to activated endothelial cells with the subsequent formation of an extracellular matrix and angiogenesis. FKN signaling occurs via CX3CR1, which is the only known member of the CX3C chemokine receptor subfamily. Signaling within the FKN-CX3CR1 axis plays an important role in many processes related to inflammation and the immune response, which often occur simultaneously and overlap. FKN is strongly upregulated by hypoxia and/or inflammation-induced inflammatory cytokine release, and it may act locally as a key angiogenic factor in the highly hypoxic tumor microenvironment. The importance of the FKN/CX3CR1 signaling pathway in tumorigenesis and cancer metastasis results from its influence on cell adhesion, apoptosis, and cell migration. This review presents the role of the FKN signaling pathway in the context of angiogenesis in inflammation and cancer. The mechanisms determining the pro- or anti-tumor effects are presented, which are the cause of the seemingly contradictory results that create confusion regarding the therapeutic goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dariusz Szukiewicz
- Department of Biophysics, Physiology & Pathophysiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland
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63
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Chen Z, Yu J, Wang H, Xu P, Fan L, Sun F, Huang S, Zhang P, Huang H, Gu S, Zhang B, Zhou Y, Wan X, Pei G, Xu HE, Cheng J, Wang S. Flexible scaffold-based cheminformatics approach for polypharmacological drug design. Cell 2024; 187:2194-2208.e22. [PMID: 38552625 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Effective treatments for complex central nervous system (CNS) disorders require drugs with polypharmacology and multifunctionality, yet designing such drugs remains a challenge. Here, we present a flexible scaffold-based cheminformatics approach (FSCA) for the rational design of polypharmacological drugs. FSCA involves fitting a flexible scaffold to different receptors using different binding poses, as exemplified by IHCH-7179, which adopted a "bending-down" binding pose at 5-HT2AR to act as an antagonist and a "stretching-up" binding pose at 5-HT1AR to function as an agonist. IHCH-7179 demonstrated promising results in alleviating cognitive deficits and psychoactive symptoms in mice by blocking 5-HT2AR for psychoactive symptoms and activating 5-HT1AR to alleviate cognitive deficits. By analyzing aminergic receptor structures, we identified two featured motifs, the "agonist filter" and "conformation shaper," which determine ligand binding pose and predict activity at aminergic receptors. With these motifs, FSCA can be applied to the design of polypharmacological ligands at other receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhangcheng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Jing Yu
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Huan Wang
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Peiyu Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Center for Structure and Function of Drug Targets, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Luyu Fan
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Fengxiu Sun
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Sijie Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Center for Structure and Function of Drug Targets, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Pei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | | | - Shuo Gu
- ComMedX, Beijing 100094, China
| | | | - Yue Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | | | - Gang Pei
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - H Eric Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Center for Structure and Function of Drug Targets, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Jianjun Cheng
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.
| | - Sheng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China.
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64
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Howard MK, Hoppe N, Huang XP, Macdonald CB, Mehrota E, Grimes PR, Zahm A, Trinidad DD, English J, Coyote-Maestas W, Manglik A. Molecular basis of proton-sensing by G protein-coupled receptors. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.17.590000. [PMID: 38659943 PMCID: PMC11042331 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.17.590000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Three proton-sensing G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), GPR4, GPR65, and GPR68, respond to changes in extracellular pH to regulate diverse physiology and are implicated in a wide range of diseases. A central challenge in determining how protons activate these receptors is identifying the set of residues that bind protons. Here, we determine structures of each receptor to understand the spatial arrangement of putative proton sensing residues in the active state. With a newly developed deep mutational scanning approach, we determined the functional importance of every residue in proton activation for GPR68 by generating ~9,500 mutants and measuring effects on signaling and surface expression. This unbiased screen revealed that, unlike other proton-sensitive cell surface channels and receptors, no single site is critical for proton recognition in GPR68. Instead, a network of titratable residues extend from the extracellular surface to the transmembrane region and converge on canonical class A GPCR activation motifs to activate proton-sensing GPCRs. More broadly, our approach integrating structure and unbiased functional interrogation defines a new framework for understanding the rich complexity of GPCR signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew K. Howard
- Tetrad graduate program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Science, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas Hoppe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Biophysics graduate program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Xi-Ping Huang
- Department of Pharmacology and the National Institute of Mental Health Psychoactive Drug Screening Program (NIMH PDSP), The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Christian B. Macdonald
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Science, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Eshan Mehrota
- Tetrad graduate program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Adam Zahm
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Donovan D. Trinidad
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, University of California, San Francisco, United States
| | - Justin English
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Willow Coyote-Maestas
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Science, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Quantitative Biosciences Institute, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Aashish Manglik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Quantitative Biosciences Institute, University of California, San Francisco, USA
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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65
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Bertalan É, Rodrigues MJ, Schertler GFX, Bondar AN. Graph-based algorithms to dissect long-distance water-mediated H-bond networks for conformational couplings in GPCRs. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38636539 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Changes in structure and dynamics elicited by agonist ligand binding at the extracellular side of G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) must be relayed to the cytoplasmic G protein binding side of the receptors. To decipher the role of water-mediated hydrogen-bond networks in this relay mechanism, we have developed graph-based algorithms and analysis methodologies applicable to datasets of static structures of distinct GPCRs. For a reference dataset of static structures of bovine rhodopsin solved at the same resolution, we show that graph analyses capture the internal protein-water hydrogen-bond network. The extended analyses of static structures of rhodopsins and opioid receptors suggest a relay mechanism whereby inactive receptors have in place much of the internal core hydrogen-bond network required for long-distance relay of structural change, with extensive local H-bond clusters observed in structures solved at high resolution and with internal water molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Éva Bertalan
- Physikzentrum, RWTH-Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | | | | | - Ana-Nicoleta Bondar
- Forschungszentrum Jülich, Institute of Computational Biomedicine, Jülich, Germany
- Faculty of Physics, University of Bucharest, Măgurele, Romania
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66
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Cai H, Guo S, Xu Y, Sun J, Li J, Xia Z, Jiang Y, Xie X, Xu HE. Cryo-EM structures of adenosine receptor A 3AR bound to selective agonists. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3252. [PMID: 38627384 PMCID: PMC11021478 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47207-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The adenosine A3 receptor (A3AR), a key member of the G protein-coupled receptor family, is a promising therapeutic target for inflammatory and cancerous conditions. The selective A3AR agonists, CF101 and CF102, are clinically significant, yet their recognition mechanisms remained elusive. Here we report the cryogenic electron microscopy structures of the full-length human A3AR bound to CF101 and CF102 with heterotrimeric Gi protein in complex at 3.3-3.2 Å resolution. These agonists reside in the orthosteric pocket, forming conserved interactions via their adenine moieties, while their 3-iodobenzyl groups exhibit distinct orientations. Functional assays reveal the critical role of extracellular loop 3 in A3AR's ligand selectivity and receptor activation. Key mutations, including His3.37, Ser5.42, and Ser6.52, in a unique sub-pocket of A3AR, significantly impact receptor activation. Comparative analysis with the inactive A2AAR structure highlights a conserved receptor activation mechanism. Our findings provide comprehensive insights into the molecular recognition and signaling of A3AR, paving the way for designing subtype-selective adenosine receptor ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongmin Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Shimeng Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Youwei Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Junrui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhikan Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Jiang
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research, Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, China.
| | - H Eric Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
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67
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Zhang M, Chen T, Lu X, Lan X, Chen Z, Lu S. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs): advances in structures, mechanisms, and drug discovery. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:88. [PMID: 38594257 PMCID: PMC11004190 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01803-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), the largest family of human membrane proteins and an important class of drug targets, play a role in maintaining numerous physiological processes. Agonist or antagonist, orthosteric effects or allosteric effects, and biased signaling or balanced signaling, characterize the complexity of GPCR dynamic features. In this study, we first review the structural advancements, activation mechanisms, and functional diversity of GPCRs. We then focus on GPCR drug discovery by revealing the detailed drug-target interactions and the underlying mechanisms of orthosteric drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in the past five years. Particularly, an up-to-date analysis is performed on available GPCR structures complexed with synthetic small-molecule allosteric modulators to elucidate key receptor-ligand interactions and allosteric mechanisms. Finally, we highlight how the widespread GPCR-druggable allosteric sites can guide structure- or mechanism-based drug design and propose prospects of designing bitopic ligands for the future therapeutic potential of targeting this receptor family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Protection, Development and Utilization of Medicinal Resources in Liupanshan Area, Ministry of Education, Peptide & Protein Drug Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Ting Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Changzheng Hospital, Affiliated to Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Xun Lu
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Xiaobing Lan
- Key Laboratory of Protection, Development and Utilization of Medicinal Resources in Liupanshan Area, Ministry of Education, Peptide & Protein Drug Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Ziqiang Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Changhai Hospital, Affiliated to Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Shaoyong Lu
- Key Laboratory of Protection, Development and Utilization of Medicinal Resources in Liupanshan Area, Ministry of Education, Peptide & Protein Drug Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China.
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
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68
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Zeng J, Loi GWZ, Saipuljumri EN, Romero Durán MA, Silva-García O, Perez-Aguilar JM, Baizabal-Aguirre VM, Lo CH. Peptide-based allosteric inhibitor targets TNFR1 conformationally active region and disables receptor-ligand signaling complex. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2308132121. [PMID: 38551841 PMCID: PMC10998571 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2308132121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor 1 (TNFR1) plays a pivotal role in mediating TNF induced downstream signaling and regulating inflammatory response. Recent studies have suggested that TNFR1 activation involves conformational rearrangements of preligand assembled receptor dimers and targeting receptor conformational dynamics is a viable strategy to modulate TNFR1 signaling. Here, we used a combination of biophysical, biochemical, and cellular assays, as well as molecular dynamics simulation to show that an anti-inflammatory peptide (FKCRRWQWRMKK), which we termed FKC, inhibits TNFR1 activation allosterically by altering the conformational states of the receptor dimer without blocking receptor-ligand interaction or disrupting receptor dimerization. We also demonstrated the efficacy of FKC by showing that the peptide inhibits TNFR1 signaling in HEK293 cells and attenuates inflammation in mice with intraperitoneal TNF injection. Mechanistically, we found that FKC binds to TNFR1 cysteine-rich domains (CRD2/3) and perturbs the conformational dynamics required for receptor activation. Importantly, FKC increases the frequency in the opening of both CRD2/3 and CRD4 in the receptor dimer, as well as induces a conformational opening in the cytosolic regions of the receptor. This results in an inhibitory conformational state that impedes the recruitment of downstream signaling molecules. Together, these data provide evidence on the feasibility of targeting TNFR1 conformationally active region and open new avenues for receptor-specific inhibition of TNFR1 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialiu Zeng
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 308232, Singapore
| | - Gavin Wen Zhao Loi
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 308232, Singapore
| | - Eka Norfaishanty Saipuljumri
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 308232, Singapore
- School of Applied Science, Republic Polytechnic, Singapore 738964, Singapore
| | - Marco Antonio Romero Durán
- Centro Multidisciplinario de Estudios en Biotecnología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Morelia 58893, México
| | - Octavio Silva-García
- Centro Multidisciplinario de Estudios en Biotecnología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Morelia 58893, México
| | - Jose Manuel Perez-Aguilar
- School of Chemical Sciences, Meritorious Autonomous University of Puebla, University City, Puebla 72570, México
| | - Víctor M Baizabal-Aguirre
- Centro Multidisciplinario de Estudios en Biotecnología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Morelia 58893, México
| | - Chih Hung Lo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 308232, Singapore
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69
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Hoppe N, Harrison S, Hwang SH, Chen Z, Karelina M, Deshpande I, Suomivuori CM, Palicharla VR, Berry SP, Tschaikner P, Regele D, Covey DF, Stefan E, Marks DS, Reiter JF, Dror RO, Evers AS, Mukhopadhyay S, Manglik A. GPR161 structure uncovers the redundant role of sterol-regulated ciliary cAMP signaling in the Hedgehog pathway. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2024; 31:667-677. [PMID: 38326651 PMCID: PMC11221913 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-024-01223-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The orphan G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) GPR161 plays a central role in development by suppressing Hedgehog signaling. The fundamental basis of how GPR161 is activated remains unclear. Here, we determined a cryogenic-electron microscopy structure of active human GPR161 bound to heterotrimeric Gs. This structure revealed an extracellular loop 2 that occupies the canonical GPCR orthosteric ligand pocket. Furthermore, a sterol that binds adjacent to transmembrane helices 6 and 7 stabilizes a GPR161 conformation required for Gs coupling. Mutations that prevent sterol binding to GPR161 suppress Gs-mediated signaling. These mutants retain the ability to suppress GLI2 transcription factor accumulation in primary cilia, a key function of ciliary GPR161. By contrast, a protein kinase A-binding site in the GPR161 C terminus is critical in suppressing GLI2 ciliary accumulation. Our work highlights how structural features of GPR161 interface with the Hedgehog pathway and sets a foundation to understand the role of GPR161 function in other signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Hoppe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Biophysics Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Simone Harrison
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Biophysics Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sun-Hee Hwang
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Ziwei Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
- Taylor Institute for Innovative Psychiatric Research, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Masha Karelina
- Biophysics Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Computational and Mathematical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ishan Deshpande
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Carl-Mikael Suomivuori
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Computational and Mathematical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Vivek R Palicharla
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Samuel P Berry
- Department of Systems Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Philipp Tschaikner
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Center for Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute (TKFI), Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Dominik Regele
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Center for Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Douglas F Covey
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
- Taylor Institute for Innovative Psychiatric Research, St Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Eduard Stefan
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Center for Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute (TKFI), Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Debora S Marks
- Department of Systems Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jeremy F Reiter
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ron O Dror
- Biophysics Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Computational and Mathematical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Alex S Evers
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
- Taylor Institute for Innovative Psychiatric Research, St Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Saikat Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Aashish Manglik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Khorn PA, Luginina AP, Pospelov VA, Dashevsky DE, Khnykin AN, Moiseeva OV, Safronova NA, Belousov AS, Mishin AV, Borshchevsky VI. Rational Design of Drugs Targeting G-Protein-Coupled Receptors: A Structural Biology Perspective. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2024; 89:747-764. [PMID: 38831510 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297924040138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play a key role in the transduction of extracellular signals to cells and regulation of many biological processes, which makes these membrane proteins one of the most important targets for pharmacological agents. A significant increase in the number of resolved atomic structures of GPCRs has opened the possibility of developing pharmaceuticals targeting these receptors via structure-based drug design (SBDD). SBDD employs information on the structure of receptor-ligand complexes to search for selective ligands without the need for an extensive high-throughput experimental ligand screening and can significantly expand the chemical space for ligand search. In this review, we describe the process of deciphering GPCR structures using X-ray diffraction analysis and cryoelectron microscopy as an important stage in the rational design of drugs targeting this receptor class. Our main goal was to present modern developments and key features of experimental methods used in SBDD of GPCR-targeting agents to a wide range of specialists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Polina A Khorn
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Aleksandra P Luginina
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Vladimir A Pospelov
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Dmitrii E Dashevsky
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Andrey N Khnykin
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Olga V Moiseeva
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
- Scryabin Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Microorganisms, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russia
| | - Nadezhda A Safronova
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Anatolii S Belousov
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Alexey V Mishin
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia.
| | - Valentin I Borshchevsky
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia.
- Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Frank Laboratory of Neutron Physics, Dubna, Moscow Region, 141980, Russia
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71
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Calderón JC, Ibrahim P, Gobbo D, Gervasio FL, Clark T. Determinants of Neutral Antagonism and Inverse Agonism in the β 2-Adrenergic Receptor. J Chem Inf Model 2024; 64:2045-2057. [PMID: 38447156 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.3c01763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Free-energy profiles for the activation/deactivation of the β2-adrenergic receptor (ADRB2) with neutral antagonist and inverse agonist ligands have been determined with well-tempered multiple-walker (MW) metadynamics simulations. The inverse agonists carazolol and ICI118551 clearly favor single inactive conformational minima in both the binary and ternary ligand-receptor-G-protein complexes, in accord with the inverse-agonist activity of the ligands. The behavior of neutral antagonists is more complex, as they seem also to affect the recruitment of the G-protein. The results are analyzed in terms of the conformational states of the well-known microswitches that have been proposed as indicators of receptor activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline C Calderón
- Computer-Chemistry-Center, Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuernberg, Naegelsbachstr. 25, 91052 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Passainte Ibrahim
- Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Leipzig, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Dorothea Gobbo
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, CH1206 Geneva, Switzerland
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, CH1206 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Luigi Gervasio
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, CH1206 Geneva, Switzerland
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, CH1206 Geneva, Switzerland
- Chemistry Department, University College London, WC1H 0AJ London, United Kingdom
- Swiss Bioinformatics Institute, CH1206 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Timothy Clark
- Computer-Chemistry-Center, Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuernberg, Naegelsbachstr. 25, 91052 Erlangen, Germany
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72
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Otanuly M, Kubitschke M, Masseck OA. A Bright Future? A Perspective on Class C GPCR Based Genetically Encoded Biosensors. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:889-897. [PMID: 38380648 PMCID: PMC10921406 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
One of the major challenges in molecular neuroscience today is to accurately monitor neurotransmitters, neuromodulators, peptides, and various other biomolecules in the brain with high temporal and spatial resolution. Only a comprehensive understanding of neuromodulator dynamics, their release probability, and spatial distribution will unravel their ultimate role in cognition and behavior. This Perspective offers an overview of potential design strategies for class C GPCR-based biosensors. It briefly highlights current applications of GPCR-based biosensors, with a primary focus on class C GPCRs and their unique structural characteristics compared with other GPCR subfamilies. The discussion offers insights into plausible future design approaches for biosensor development targeting members of this specific GPCR subfamily. It is important to note that, at this stage, we are contemplating possibilities rather than presenting a concrete guide, as the pipeline is still under development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margulan Otanuly
- Synthetische Biologie, Universität Bremen, Bremen 28359, Germany
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73
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Russell I, Zhang X, Bumbak F, McNeill SM, Josephs TM, Leeming MG, Christopoulos G, Venugopal H, Flocco MM, Sexton PM, Wootten D, Belousoff MJ. Lipid-Dependent Activation of the Orphan G Protein-Coupled Receptor, GPR3. Biochemistry 2024; 63:625-631. [PMID: 38376112 PMCID: PMC10919283 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.3c00647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
The class A orphan G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), GPR3, has been implicated in a variety of conditions, including Alzheimer's and premature ovarian failure. GPR3 constitutively couples with Gαs, resulting in the production of cAMP in cells. While tool compounds and several putative endogenous ligands have emerged for the receptor, its endogenous ligand, if it exists, remains a mystery. As novel potential drug targets, the structures of orphan GPCRs have been of increasing interest, revealing distinct modes of activation, including autoactivation, presence of constitutively activating mutations, or via cryptic ligands. Here, we present a cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structure of the orphan GPCR, GPR3 in complex with DNGαs and Gβ1γ2. The structure revealed clear density for a lipid-like ligand that bound within an extended hydrophobic groove, suggesting that the observed "constitutive activity" was likely due to activation via a lipid that may be ubiquitously present. Analysis of conformational variance within the cryo-EM data set revealed twisting motions of the GPR3 transmembrane helices that appeared coordinated with changes in the lipid-like density. We propose a mechanism for the binding of a lipid to its putative orthosteric binding pocket linked to the GPR3 dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella
C. Russell
- Drug
Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
- Australian
Research Council Centre for Cryo-Electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins,
Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
| | - Xin Zhang
- Drug
Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
- Australian
Research Council Centre for Cryo-Electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins,
Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
| | - Fabian Bumbak
- Drug
Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
- Australian
Research Council Centre for Cryo-Electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins,
Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
| | - Samantha M. McNeill
- Drug
Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
| | - Tracy M. Josephs
- Drug
Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
- Australian
Research Council Centre for Cryo-Electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins,
Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
| | - Michael G. Leeming
- Bio21
Molecular Science & Biotechnology Institute, Melbourne Mass Spectrometry
and Proteomics Facility, The University
of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - George Christopoulos
- Drug
Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
| | - Hariprasad Venugopal
- Ramaciotti
Centre for Cryo Electron Microscopy, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Victoria Australia
| | - Maria M. Flocco
- Mechanistic
and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge CB20AA, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick M. Sexton
- Drug
Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
- Australian
Research Council Centre for Cryo-Electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins,
Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
| | - Denise Wootten
- Drug
Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
- Australian
Research Council Centre for Cryo-Electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins,
Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
| | - Matthew J. Belousoff
- Drug
Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
- Australian
Research Council Centre for Cryo-Electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins,
Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Victoria Australia
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74
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Li X, Liu H, Wang Y, Crabbe MJC, Wang L, Ma W, Ren Z. Preparation of a novel metallothionein-AuNP composite material by genetic modification and AuS covalent combination. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 262:129960. [PMID: 38325687 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Metallothionein (MTs) can be used in the prevention and treatment of tumors and diabetes due to its antioxidant properties. However, it is necessary to solve its non-transmembrane properties and further improve its antioxidant activity, increase its fluorescence visualization and enhance its stability to meet practical applications in the biomedical field. Here, we report the preparation of a novel metallothionein-AuNP composite material with high transmembrane ability, fluorescence visualization, antioxidant activity, and stability by genetic modification (introducing transduction peptide TAT, fluorescence tag GFP and increasing sulfydryl groups) and immobilization technology (covalently bonding with AuNPs). The transmembrane activity of modified proteins was verified by immunofluorescence. Increasing the sulfhydryl content within a certain range can enhance the antioxidant activity of the protein. In addition, GFP were used to further simplify the imaging of the metallothionein-AuNP composite in cells. XPS results indicated that AuNPs can immobilize metallothionein through AuS covalent bonds. TGA characterization and degradation experiments showed that thermal and degradation stability of the immobilized material was significantly improved. This work provides new ideas to construct metallothionein composites with high transmembrane ability, antioxidant activity, fluorescence visualization and stability to meet novel applications in the biomedical field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuefen Li
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, PR China
| | - Hui Liu
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, PR China
| | - Yuxia Wang
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, PR China
| | - M James C Crabbe
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, PR China; Wolfson College, University of Oxford, Oxford OX2 6UD, UK; Institute of Biomedical and Environmental Science & Technology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Creative Arts, Technologies and Science, University of Bedfordshire, University Square, Luton LU1 3JU, UK
| | - Lan Wang
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, PR China
| | - Wenli Ma
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, PR China.
| | - Zhumei Ren
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, PR China.
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75
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Wu C, Xu M, Dong J, Cui W, Yuan S. The structure and function of olfactory receptors. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2024; 45:268-280. [PMID: 38296675 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2024.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Olfactory receptors (ORs) form the most important chemosensory receptor family responsible for our sense of smell in the nasal olfactory epithelium. This receptor family belongs to the class A G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Recent research has indicated that ORs are involved in many nonolfactory physiological processes in extranasal tissue, such as the brain, pancreas, and testes, and implies the possible role of their dysregulation in various diseases. The recently released structures of OR51E2 and consensus OR52 have also unveiled the uniqueness of ORs from other class A GPCR members. In this review, we discuss these recent developments and computational modeling efforts toward understanding the structural properties of unresolved ORs, which could guide potential future OR-targeted drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyang Wu
- The AlphaMol-SIAT Joint Laboratory, Shenzhen 518055, China; The Research Center for Computer-aided Drug Discovery, The Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Marc Xu
- The AlphaMol-SIAT Joint Laboratory, Shenzhen 518055, China; The Research Center for Computer-aided Drug Discovery, The Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Junlin Dong
- The AlphaMol-SIAT Joint Laboratory, Shenzhen 518055, China; The Research Center for Computer-aided Drug Discovery, The Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Wenqiang Cui
- The AlphaMol-SIAT Joint Laboratory, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Shuguang Yuan
- The AlphaMol-SIAT Joint Laboratory, Shenzhen 518055, China; AlphaMol Science Ltd, Shenzhen 518055, China.
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76
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Nikte SV, Joshi M, Sengupta D. State-dependent dynamics of extramembrane domains in the β 2 -adrenergic receptor. Proteins 2024; 92:317-328. [PMID: 37864328 DOI: 10.1002/prot.26613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are membrane-bound signaling proteins that play an essential role in cellular signaling processes. Due to their intrinsic function of transmitting internal signals in response to external cues, these receptors are adapted to be highly dynamic in nature. The β2 -adrenergic receptor (β2 AR) is a representative member of the family that has been extensively analyzed in terms of its structure and activation. Although the structure of the transmembrane domain has been characterized in the different functional states of the receptor, the conformational dynamics of the extramembrane domains, especially the intrinsically disordered regions are still emerging. In this study, we analyze the state-dependent dynamics of extramembrane domains of β2 AR using atomistic molecular dynamics simulations. We introduce a parameter, the residue excess dynamics that allows us to better quantify receptor dynamics. Using this measure, we show that the dynamics of the extramembrane domains are sensitive to the receptor state. Interestingly, the ligand-bound intermediateR ' state shows the maximal dynamics compared to either the active R*G or inactive R states. Ligand binding appears to be correlated with high residue excess dynamics that are dampened upon G protein coupling. The intracellular loop-3 (ICL3) domain has a tendency to flip towards the membrane upon ligand binding, which could contribute to receptor "priming." We highlight an important ICL1-helix-8 interplay that is broken in the ligand-bound state but is retained in the active state. Overall, our study highlights the importance of characterizing the functional dynamics of the GPCR loop domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddhanta V Nikte
- Physical and Materials Chemistry Division, National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Manali Joshi
- Bioinformatics Center, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Durba Sengupta
- Physical and Materials Chemistry Division, National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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77
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Nguyen ATP, Weigle AT, Shukla D. Functional regulation of aquaporin dynamics by lipid bilayer composition. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1848. [PMID: 38418487 PMCID: PMC10901782 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46027-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
With the diversity of lipid-protein interactions, any observed membrane protein dynamics or functions directly depend on the lipid bilayer selection. However, the implications of lipid bilayer choice are seldom considered unless characteristic lipid-protein interactions have been previously reported. Using molecular dynamics simulation, we characterize the effects of membrane embedding on plant aquaporin SoPIP2;1, which has no reported high-affinity lipid interactions. The regulatory impacts of a realistic lipid bilayer, and nine different homogeneous bilayers, on varying SoPIP2;1 dynamics are examined. We demonstrate that SoPIP2;1's structure, thermodynamics, kinetics, and water transport are altered as a function of each membrane construct's ensemble properties. Notably, the realistic bilayer provides stabilization of non-functional SoPIP2;1 metastable states. Hydrophobic mismatch and lipid order parameter calculations further explain how lipid ensemble properties manipulate SoPIP2;1 behavior. Our results illustrate the importance of careful bilayer selection when studying membrane proteins. To this end, we advise cautionary measures when performing membrane protein molecular dynamics simulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anh T P Nguyen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Austin T Weigle
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Diwakar Shukla
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
- Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
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78
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Yao H, Wang X, Chi J, Chen H, Liu Y, Yang J, Yu J, Ruan Y, Xiang X, Pi J, Xu JF. Exploring Novel Antidepressants Targeting G Protein-Coupled Receptors and Key Membrane Receptors Based on Molecular Structures. Molecules 2024; 29:964. [PMID: 38474476 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29050964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a complex mental disorder that involves alterations in signal transmission across multiple scales and structural abnormalities. The development of effective antidepressants (ADs) has been hindered by the dominance of monoamine hypothesis, resulting in slow progress. Traditional ADs have undesirable traits like delayed onset of action, limited efficacy, and severe side effects. Recently, two categories of fast-acting antidepressant compounds have surfaced, dissociative anesthetics S-ketamine and its metabolites, as well as psychedelics such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). This has led to structural research and drug development of the receptors that they target. This review provides breakthroughs and achievements in the structure of depression-related receptors and novel ADs based on these. Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) has enabled researchers to identify the structures of membrane receptors, including the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) and the 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A (5-HT2A) receptor. These high-resolution structures can be used for the development of novel ADs using virtual drug screening (VDS). Moreover, the unique antidepressant effects of 5-HT1A receptors in various brain regions, and the pivotal roles of the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR) and tyrosine kinase receptor 2 (TrkB) in regulating synaptic plasticity, emphasize their potential as therapeutic targets. Using structural information, a series of highly selective ADs were designed based on the different role of receptors in MDD. These molecules have the favorable characteristics of rapid onset and low adverse drug reactions. This review offers researchers guidance and a methodological framework for the structure-based design of ADs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanbo Yao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Jiaxin Chi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Haorong Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Yilin Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Jiayi Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Jiaqi Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Yongdui Ruan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Xufu Xiang
- The Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Systems Biology Theme, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Jiang Pi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Jun-Fa Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
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Miller WE, O'Connor CM. CMV-encoded GPCRs in infection, disease, and pathogenesis. Adv Virus Res 2024; 118:1-75. [PMID: 38461029 DOI: 10.1016/bs.aivir.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are seven-transmembrane domain proteins that modulate cellular processes in response to external stimuli. These receptors represent the largest family of membrane proteins, and in mammals, their signaling regulates important physiological functions, such as vision, taste, and olfaction. Many organisms, including yeast, slime molds, and viruses encode GPCRs. Cytomegaloviruses (CMVs) are large, betaherpesviruses, that encode viral GPCRs (vGPCRs). Human CMV (HCMV) encodes four vGPCRs, including UL33, UL78, US27, and US28. Each of these vGPCRs, as well as their rodent and primate orthologues, have been investigated for their contributions to viral infection and disease. Herein, we discuss how the CMV vGPCRs function during lytic and latent infection, as well as our understanding of how they impact viral pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- William E Miller
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Bioscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Christine M O'Connor
- Infection Biology, Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Global Center for Pathogen and Human Health Research, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States; Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States; Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, United States.
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80
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Ti R, Pang B, Yu L, Gan B, Ma W, Warshel A, Ren R, Zhu L. Fine-tuning activation specificity of G-protein-coupled receptors via automated path searching. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2317893121. [PMID: 38346183 PMCID: PMC10895267 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2317893121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Physics-based simulation methods can grant atomistic insights into the molecular origin of the function of biomolecules. However, the potential of such approaches has been hindered by their low efficiency, including in the design of selective agonists where simulations of myriad protein-ligand combinations are necessary. Here, we describe an automated input-free path searching protocol that offers (within 14 d using Graphics Processing Unit servers) a minimum free energy path (MFEP) defined in high-dimension configurational space for activating sphingosine-1-phosphate receptors (S1PRs) by arbitrary ligands. The free energy distributions along the MFEP for four distinct ligands and three S1PRs reached a remarkable agreement with Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer (BRET) measurements of G-protein dissociation. In particular, the revealed transition state structures pointed out toward two S1PR3 residues F263/I284, that dictate the preference of existing agonists CBP307 and BAF312 on S1PR1/5. Swapping these residues between S1PR1 and S1PR3 reversed their response to the two agonists in BRET assays. These results inspired us to design improved agonists with both strong polar head and bulky hydrophobic tail for higher selectivity on S1PR1. Through merely three in silico iterations, our tool predicted a unique compound scaffold. BRET assays confirmed that both chiral forms activate S1PR1 at nanomolar concentration, 1 to 2 orders of magnitude less than those for S1PR3/5. Collectively, these results signify the promise of our approach in fine agonist design for G-protein-coupled receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rujuan Ti
- Warshel Institute for Computational Biology, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Bin Pang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200437, China
| | - Leiye Yu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200437, China
| | - Bing Gan
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Wenzhuo Ma
- Warshel Institute for Computational Biology, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Arieh Warshel
- Department of Chemistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089
| | - Ruobing Ren
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200437, China
- Shanghai Qi Zhi Institute, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Lizhe Zhu
- Warshel Institute for Computational Biology, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
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81
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Kim K, Bansal PD, Shukla D. Binding Position Dependent Modulation of Smoothened Activity by Cyclopamine. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.08.579369. [PMID: 38405881 PMCID: PMC10888922 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.08.579369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Cyclopamine is a natural alkaloid that is known to act as an agonist when it binds to the Cysteine Rich Domain (CRD) of the Smoothened receptor and as an antagonist when it binds to the Transmembrane Domain (TMD). To study the effect of cyclopamine binding to each binding site experimentally, mutations in the other site are required. Hence, simulations are critical for understanding the WT activity due to binding at different sites. Additionally, there is a possibility that cyclopamine could bind to both sites simultaneously especially at high concentration, the implications of which remain unknown. We performed three independent sets of simulations to observe the receptor activation with cyclopamine bound to each site independently (CRD, TMD) and bound to both sites simultaneously. Using multi-milliseconds long aggregate MD simulations combined with Markov state models and machine learning, we explored the dynamic behavior of cyclopamine's interactions with different domains of WT SMO. A higher population of the active state at equilibrium, a lower activation free energy barrier of ~ 2 kcal/mol, and expansion of the hydrophobic tunnel to facilitate cholesterol transport agrees with the cyclopamine's agonistic behavior when bound to the CRD of SMO. A higher population of the inactive state at equilibrium, a higher free energy barrier of ~ 4 kcal/mol and restricted the hydrophobic tunnel to impede cholesterol transport showed cyclopamine's antagonistic behavior when bound to TMD. With cyclopamine bound to both sites, there was a slightly larger inactive population at equilibrium and an increased free energy barrier (~ 3.5 kcal/mol). The tunnel was slightly larger than when solely bound to TMD, and showed a balance between agonism and antagonism with respect to residue movements exhibiting an overall weak antagonistic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kihong Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, United States
| | - Prateek D Bansal
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, United States
| | - Diwakar Shukla
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, United States
- Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, United States
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, United States
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82
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Wang JJ, Jin S, Zhang H, Xu Y, Hu W, Jiang Y, Chen C, Wang DW, Xu HE, Wu C. Molecular recognition and activation of the prostacyclin receptor by anti-pulmonary arterial hypertension drugs. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadk5184. [PMID: 38335293 PMCID: PMC10857463 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adk5184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
The prostacyclin (PGI2) receptor (IP) is a Gs-coupled receptor associated with blood pressure regulation, allergy, and inflammatory response. It is a main therapeutic target for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and several other diseases. Here we report cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the human IP-Gs complex bound with two anti-PAH drugs, treprostinil and MRE-269 (active form of selexipag), at global resolutions of 2.56 and 2.41 angstrom, respectively. These structures revealed distinct features governing IP ligand binding, receptor activation, and G protein coupling. Moreover, comparison of the activated IP structures uncovered the mechanism and key residues that determine the superior selectivity of MRE-269 over treprostinil. Combined with molecular docking and functional studies, our structures provide insight into agonist selectivity, ligand recognition, receptor activation, and G protein coupling. Our results provide a structural template for further improving IP-targeting drugs to reduce off-target activation of prostanoid receptors and adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Jiqi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine and Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanism of Cardiologic Disorders, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Sanshan Jin
- Lingang laboratory, Shanghai 200031, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 201210 Shanghai, China
| | - Heng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Youwei Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Wen Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yi Jiang
- Lingang laboratory, Shanghai 200031, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 201210 Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine and Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanism of Cardiologic Disorders, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Dao Wen Wang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine and Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanism of Cardiologic Disorders, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - H. Eric Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 201210 Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Canrong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
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83
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Mao C, Zhao RJ, Dong YJ, Gao M, Chen LN, Zhang C, Xiao P, Guo J, Qin J, Shen DD, Ji SY, Zang SK, Zhang H, Wang WW, Shen Q, Sun JP, Zhang Y. Conformational transitions and activation of the adhesion receptor CD97. Mol Cell 2024; 84:570-583.e7. [PMID: 38215752 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Adhesion G protein-coupled receptors (aGPCRs) are evolutionarily ancient receptors involved in a variety of physiological and pathophysiological processes. Modulators of aGPCR, particularly antagonists, hold therapeutic promise for diseases like cancer and immune and neurological disorders. Hindered by the inactive state structural information, our understanding of antagonist development and aGPCR activation faces challenges. Here, we report the cryo-electron microscopy structures of human CD97, a prototypical aGPCR that plays crucial roles in immune system, in its inactive apo and G13-bound fully active states. Compared with other family GPCRs, CD97 adopts a compact inactive conformation with a constrained ligand pocket. Activation induces significant conformational changes for both extracellular and intracellular sides, creating larger cavities for Stachel sequence binding and G13 engagement. Integrated with functional and metadynamics analyses, our study provides significant mechanistic insights into the activation and signaling of aGPCRs, paving the way for future drug discovery efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyou Mao
- Center for Structural Pharmacology and Therapeutics Development, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China.
| | - Ru-Jia Zhao
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Ying-Jun Dong
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Mingxin Gao
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Advanced Medical Research Institute, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Li-Nan Chen
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Advanced Medical Research Institute, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Peng Xiao
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Jia Guo
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Jiao Qin
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Dan-Dan Shen
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China
| | - Su-Yu Ji
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Shao-Kun Zang
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Huibing Zhang
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Wei-Wei Wang
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Qingya Shen
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Jin-Peng Sun
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Advanced Medical Research Institute, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Receptors Research, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- Center for Structural Pharmacology and Therapeutics Development, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China; MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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84
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Velloso JPL, Kovacs AS, Pires DEV, Ascher DB. AI-driven GPCR analysis, engineering, and targeting. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2024; 74:102427. [PMID: 38219398 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2023.102427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
This article investigates the role of recent advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) to revolutionise the study of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). AI has been applied to many areas of GPCR research, including the application of machine learning (ML) in GPCR classification, prediction of GPCR activation levels, modelling GPCR 3D structures and interactions, understanding G-protein selectivity, aiding elucidation of GPCRs structures, and drug design. Despite progress, challenges in predicting GPCR structures and addressing the complex nature of GPCRs remain, providing avenues for future research and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- João P L Velloso
- Structural Biology and Bioinformatics, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Systems and Computational Biology, Bio21 Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Computational Biology and Clinical Informatics, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Aaron S Kovacs
- Computational Biology and Clinical Informatics, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Douglas E V Pires
- Structural Biology and Bioinformatics, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Systems and Computational Biology, Bio21 Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Computational Biology and Clinical Informatics, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - David B Ascher
- Structural Biology and Bioinformatics, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Systems and Computational Biology, Bio21 Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Computational Biology and Clinical Informatics, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
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85
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Oshima HS, Sano FK, Akasaka H, Iwama A, Shihoya W, Nureki O. Optimizing cryo-EM structural analysis of G i-coupling receptors via engineered G t and Nb35 application. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 693:149361. [PMID: 38128244 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.149361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Cryo-EM single particle analysis has recently facilitated the high-resolution structural determination of numerous GPCR-G complexes. Diverse methodologies have been devised with this trend, and in the case of GPCR-Gi complexes, scFv16, an antibody that recognizes the intricate interface of the complex, has been mainly implemented to stabilize the complex. However, owing to their flexibility and heterogeneity, structural determinations of GPCR-Gi complexes remain both challenging and resource-intensive. By employing eGαt, which exhibits binding affinity to modified nanobody Nb35, the cryo-EM structure of Rhodopsin-eGαt complex was previously reported. Using this modified G protein, we determined the structure of the ETB-eGt complex bound to the modified Nb35. The determined structure of ETB receptor was the same as the previously reported ETB-Gi complex, and the resulting dataset demonstrated significantly improved anisotropy. This modified G protein will be utilized for the structural determination of other GPCR-Gi complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidetaka S Oshima
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Fumiya K Sano
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Akasaka
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Aika Iwama
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Wataru Shihoya
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
| | - Osamu Nureki
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
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86
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Kumar S, Teli MK, Kim MH. GPCR-IPL score: multilevel featurization of GPCR-ligand interaction patterns and prediction of ligand functions from selectivity to biased activation. Brief Bioinform 2024; 25:bbae105. [PMID: 38517694 PMCID: PMC10959162 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbae105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024] Open
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) mediate diverse cell signaling cascades after recognizing extracellular ligands. Despite the successful history of known GPCR drugs, a lack of mechanistic insight into GPCR challenges both the deorphanization of some GPCRs and optimization of the structure-activity relationship of their ligands. Notably, replacing a small substituent on a GPCR ligand can significantly alter extracellular GPCR-ligand interaction patterns and motion of transmembrane helices in turn to occur post-binding events of the ligand. In this study, we designed 3D multilevel features to describe the extracellular interaction patterns. Subsequently, these 3D features were utilized to predict the post-binding events that result from conformational dynamics from the extracellular to intracellular areas. To understand the adaptability of GPCR ligands, we collected the conformational information of flexible residues during binding and performed molecular featurization on a broad range of GPCR-ligand complexes. As a result, we developed GPCR-ligand interaction patterns, binding pockets, and ligand features as score (GPCR-IPL score) for predicting the functional selectivity of GPCR ligands (agonism versus antagonism), using the multilevel features of (1) zoomed-out 'residue level' (for flexible transmembrane helices of GPCRs), (2) zoomed-in 'pocket level' (for sophisticated mode of action) and (3) 'atom level' (for the conformational adaptability of GPCR ligands). GPCR-IPL score demonstrated reliable performance, achieving area under the receiver operating characteristic of 0.938 and area under the precision-recall curve of 0.907 (available in gpcr-ipl-score.onrender.com). Furthermore, we used the molecular features to predict the biased activation of downstream signaling (Gi/o, Gq/11, Gs and β-arrestin) as well as the functional selectivity. The resulting models are interpreted and applied to out-of-set validation with three scenarios including the identification of a new MRGPRX antagonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surendra Kumar
- Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science & Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, 191 Hambakmoeiro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Mahesh K Teli
- Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science & Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, 191 Hambakmoeiro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-hyun Kim
- Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science & Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, 191 Hambakmoeiro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, Republic of Korea
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87
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Zhang X, Guseinov AA, Jenkins L, Li K, Tikhonova IG, Milligan G, Zhang C. Structural basis for the ligand recognition and signaling of free fatty acid receptors. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadj2384. [PMID: 38198545 PMCID: PMC10780892 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj2384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Free fatty acid receptors 1 to 4 (FFA1 to FFA4) are class A G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). FFA1 to FFA3 share substantial sequence similarity, whereas FFA4 is unrelated. However, FFA1 and FFA4 are activated by long-chain fatty acids, while FFA2 and FFA3 respond to short-chain fatty acids generated by intestinal microbiota. FFA1, FFA2, and FFA4 are potential drug targets for metabolic and inflammatory conditions. Here, we determined the active structures of FFA1 and FFA4 bound to docosahexaenoic acid, FFA4 bound to the synthetic agonist TUG-891, and butyrate-bound FFA2, each complexed with an engineered heterotrimeric Gq protein (miniGq), by cryo-electron microscopy. Together with computational simulations and mutagenesis studies, we elucidated the similarities and differences in the binding modes of fatty acid ligands to their respective GPCRs. Our findings unveiled distinct mechanisms of receptor activation and G protein coupling. We anticipate that these outcomes will facilitate structure-based drug development and underpin future research on this group of GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Abdul-Akim Guseinov
- School of Pharmacy, Medical Biology Centre, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Laura Jenkins
- Centre for Translational Pharmacology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland, UK
| | - Kunpeng Li
- Cryo-EM Core Facility, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Irina G. Tikhonova
- School of Pharmacy, Medical Biology Centre, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Graeme Milligan
- Centre for Translational Pharmacology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland, UK
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
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88
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Buyanov I, Popov P. Characterizing conformational states in GPCR structures using machine learning. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1098. [PMID: 38212515 PMCID: PMC10784458 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47698-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play a pivotal role in signal transduction and represent attractive targets for drug development. Recent advances in structural biology have provided insights into GPCR conformational states, which are critical for understanding their signaling pathways and facilitating structure-based drug discovery. In this study, we introduce a machine learning approach for conformational state annotation of GPCRs. We represent GPCR conformations as high-dimensional feature vectors, incorporating information about amino acid residue pairs involved in the activation pathway. Using a dataset of GPCR conformations in inactive and active states obtained through molecular dynamics simulations, we trained machine learning models to distinguish between inactive-like and active-like conformations. The developed model provides interpretable predictions and can be used for the large-scale analysis of molecular dynamics trajectories of GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilya Buyanov
- iMolecule, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, 121205, Russia
| | - Petr Popov
- iMolecule, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, 121205, Russia.
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89
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Kozma MT, Pérez-Moreno JL, Gandhi NS, Hernandez Jeppesen L, Durica DS, Ventura T, Mykles DL. In silico analysis of crustacean hyperglycemic hormone family G protein-coupled receptor candidates. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1322800. [PMID: 38298185 PMCID: PMC10828670 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1322800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Ecdysteroid molting hormone synthesis is directed by a pair of molting glands or Y-organs (YOs), and this synthesis is inhibited by molt-inhibiting hormone (MIH). MIH is a member of the crustacean hyperglycemic hormone (CHH) neuropeptide superfamily, which includes CHH and insect ion transport peptide (ITP). It is hypothesized that the MIH receptor is a Class A (Rhodopsin-like) G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR). The YO of the blackback land crab, Gecarcinus lateralis, expresses 49 Class A GPCRs, three of which (Gl-CHHR-A9, -A10, and -A12) were provisionally assigned as CHH-like receptors. CrusTome, a transcriptome database assembled from 189 crustaceans and 12 ecdysozoan outgroups, was used to deorphanize candidate MIH/CHH GPCRs, relying on sequence homology to three functionally characterized ITP receptors (BNGR-A2, BNGR-A24, and BNGR-A34) in the silk moth, Bombyx mori. Phylogenetic analysis and multiple sequence alignments across major taxonomic groups revealed extensive expansion and diversification of crustacean A2, A24, and A34 receptors, designated CHH Family Receptor Candidates (CFRCs). The A2 clade was divided into three subclades; A24 clade was divided into five subclades; and A34 was divided into six subclades. The subclades were distinguished by conserved motifs in extracellular loop (ECL) 2 and ECL3 in the ligand-binding region. Eleven of the 14 subclades occurred in decapod crustaceans. In G. lateralis, seven CFRC sequences, designated Gl-CFRC-A2α1, -A24α, -A24β1, -A24β2, -A34α2, -A34β1, and -A34β2, were identified; the three A34 sequences corresponded to Gl-GPCR-A12, -A9, and A10, respectively. ECL2 in all the CFRC sequences had a two-stranded β-sheet structure similar to human Class A GPCRs, whereas the ECL2 of decapod CFRC-A34β1/β2 had an additional two-stranded β-sheet. We hypothesize that this second β-sheet on ECL2 plays a role in MIH/CHH binding and activation, which will be investigated further with functional assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihika T. Kozma
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | | | - Neha S. Gandhi
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
- School of Chemistry and Physics, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - David S. Durica
- Department of Biology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
| | - Tomer Ventura
- Centre for BioInnovation and School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
| | - Donald L. Mykles
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
- Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute, University of California-Davis Bodega Marine Laboratory, Bodega Bay, CA, United States
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90
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Chen J, Stork T, Kang Y, Nardone KAM, Auer F, Farrell RJ, Jay TR, Heo D, Sheehan A, Paton C, Nagel KI, Schoppik D, Monk KR, Freeman MR. Astrocyte growth is driven by the Tre1/S1pr1 phospholipid-binding G protein-coupled receptor. Neuron 2024; 112:93-112.e10. [PMID: 38096817 PMCID: PMC11073822 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Astrocytes play crucial roles in regulating neural circuit function by forming a dense network of synapse-associated membrane specializations, but signaling pathways regulating astrocyte morphogenesis remain poorly defined. Here, we show the Drosophila lipid-binding G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) Tre1 is required for astrocytes to establish their intricate morphology in vivo. The lipid phosphate phosphatases Wunen/Wunen2 also regulate astrocyte morphology and, via Tre1, mediate astrocyte-astrocyte competition for growth-promoting lipids. Loss of s1pr1, the functional analog of Tre1 in zebrafish, disrupts astrocyte process elaboration, and live imaging and pharmacology demonstrate that S1pr1 balances proper astrocyte process extension/retraction dynamics during growth. Loss of Tre1 in flies or S1pr1 in zebrafish results in defects in simple assays of motor behavior. Tre1 and S1pr1 are thus potent evolutionarily conserved regulators of the elaboration of astrocyte morphological complexity and, ultimately, astrocyte control of behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiakun Chen
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
| | - Tobias Stork
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Yunsik Kang
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Katherine A M Nardone
- Departments of Otolaryngology and Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Franziska Auer
- Departments of Otolaryngology and Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Ryan J Farrell
- Neuroscience Institute, NYU Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Taylor R Jay
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Dongeun Heo
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Amy Sheehan
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Cameron Paton
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | | | - David Schoppik
- Departments of Otolaryngology and Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Kelly R Monk
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
| | - Marc R Freeman
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
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91
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Shumate AD, Farrens DL. A rapid, tag-free way to purify functional GPCRs. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:105558. [PMID: 38097184 PMCID: PMC10820827 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play diverse signaling roles and represent major pharmaceutical targets. Consequently, they are the focus of intense study, and numerous advances have been made in their handling and analysis. However, a universal way to purify GPCRs has remained elusive, in part because of their inherent instability when isolated from cells. To address this, we have developed a general, rapid, and tag-free way to purify GPCRs. The method uses short peptide analogs of the Gα subunit C terminus (Gα-CT) that are attached to chromatography beads (Gα-CT resin). Because the Gα-CT peptides bind active GPCRs with high affinity, the Gα-CT resin selectively purifies only active functional receptors. We use this method to purify both rhodopsin and the β2-adrenergic receptor and show they can be purified in either active conformations or inactive conformations, simply by varying elution conditions. While simple in concept-leveraging the conserved GPCR-Gα-CT binding interaction for the purpose of GPCR purification-we think this approach holds excellent potential to isolate functional receptors for a myriad of uses, from structural biology to proteomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony D Shumate
- Department of Chemical Biology and Physiology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - David L Farrens
- Department of Chemical Biology and Physiology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA.
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92
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Bloxham CJ, Hulme KD, Fierro F, Fercher C, Pegg CL, O'Brien SL, Foster SR, Short KR, Furness SGB, Reichelt ME, Niv MY, Thomas WG. Cardiac human bitter taste receptors contain naturally occurring variants that alter function. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 219:115932. [PMID: 37989413 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Bitter taste receptors (T2R) are a subfamily of G protein-coupled receptors that enable humans to detect aversive and toxic substances. The ability to discern bitter compounds varies between individuals and is attributed mainly to naturally occurring T2R polymorphisms. T2Rs are also expressed in numerous non-gustatory tissues, including the heart, indicating potential contributions to cardiovascular physiology. In this study. T2Rs that have previously been identified in human cardiac tissues (T2Rs - 10, 14, 30, 31, 46 and 50) and their naturally occurring polymorphisms were functionally characterised. The ligand-dependent signaling responses of some T2R variants were completely abolished (T2R30 Leu252 and T2R46 Met228), whereas other receptor variants had moderate changes in their maximal response, but not potency, relative to wild type. Using a cAMP fluorescent biosensor, we reveal the productive coupling of T2R14, but not the T2R14 Phe201 variant, to endogenous Gαi. Modeling revealed that these variants resulted in altered interactions that generally affected ligand binding (T2R30 Leu252) or Gα protein interactions (T2R46 Met228 and T2R14 Phe201), rather than receptor structural stability. Interestingly, this study is the first to show a difference in signaling for T2R50 Tyr203 (rs1376251) which has been associated with cardiovascular disease. The observation of naturally occurring functional variation in the T2Rs with the greatest expression in the heart is important, as their discovery should prove useful in deciphering the role of T2Rs within the cardiovascular system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor J Bloxham
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, QLD, Australia; Regenerative Medicine in Cardiovascular Diseases, First Department of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Germany
| | - Katina D Hulme
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Science, University of Queensland, QLD, Australia; Department of Medical Microbiology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Fabrizio Fierro
- Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Christian Fercher
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, QLD, Australia
| | - Cassandra L Pegg
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Science, University of Queensland, QLD, Australia
| | - Shannon L O'Brien
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom; Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), Universities of Nottingham and Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Simon R Foster
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, QLD, Australia; QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Kirsty R Short
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Science, University of Queensland, QLD, Australia
| | - Sebastian G B Furness
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, QLD, Australia; Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Melissa E Reichelt
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, QLD, Australia
| | - Masha Y Niv
- Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Walter G Thomas
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, QLD, Australia.
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93
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Baumann C, Zerbe O. The role of leucine and isoleucine in tuning the hydropathy of class A GPCRs. Proteins 2024; 92:15-23. [PMID: 37497770 DOI: 10.1002/prot.26559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Leucine and Isoleucine are two amino acids that differ only by the positioning of one methyl group. This small difference can have important consequences in α-helices, as the β-branching of Ile results in helix destabilization. We set out to investigate whether there are general trends for the occurrences of Leu and Ile residues in the structures and sequences of class A GPCRs (G protein-coupled receptors). GPCRs are integral membrane proteins in which α-helices span the plasma membrane seven times and which play a crucial role in signal transmission. We found that Leu side chains are generally more exposed at the protein surface than Ile side chains. We explored whether this difference might be attributed to different functions of the two amino acids and tested if Leu tunes the hydrophobicity of the transmembrane domain based on the Wimley-White whole-residue hydrophobicity scales. Leu content decreases the variation in hydropathy between receptors and correlates with the non-Leu receptor hydropathy. Both measures indicate that hydropathy is tuned by Leu. To test this idea further, we generated protein sequences with random amino acid compositions using a simple numerical model, in which hydropathy was tuned by adjusting the number of Leu residues. The model was able to replicate the observations made with class A GPCR sequences. We speculate that the hydropathy of transmembrane domains of class A GPCRs is tuned by Leu (and to some lesser degree by Lys and Val) to facilitate correct insertion into membranes and/or to stably anchor the receptors within membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Oliver Zerbe
- Department of Chemistry, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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94
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Naglekar A, Chattopadhyay A, Sengupta D. Palmitoylation of the Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Modulates Cholesterol Interactions at the Receptor-Lipid Microenvironment. J Phys Chem B 2023; 127:11000-11010. [PMID: 38111968 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c05930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
The G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily of cell surface receptors has been shown to be functionally modulated by post-translational modifications. The glucagon-like peptide receptor-1 (GLP-1R), which is a drug target in diabetes and obesity, undergoes agonist-dependent palmitoyl tail conjugation. The palmitoylation in the C-terminal domain of GLP-1R has been suggested to modulate the receptor-lipid microenvironment. In this work, we have performed coarse-grain molecular dynamics simulations of palmitoylated and nonpalmitoylated GLP-1R to analyze the differential receptor-lipid interactions. Interestingly, the placement and dynamics of the C-terminal domain of GLP-1R are found to be directly dependent on the palmitoyl tail. We observe that both cholesterol and phospholipids interact with the receptor but display differential interactions in the presence and absence of the palmitoyl tail. We characterize important cholesterol-binding sites and validate sites that have been previously reported in experimentally resolved structures of the receptor. We show that the receptor acts like a conduit for cholesterol flip-flop by stabilizing cholesterol in the membrane core. Taken together, our work represents an important step in understanding the molecular effects of lipid modifications in GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Naglekar
- CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pune 411008, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Amitabha Chattopadhyay
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500007, India
| | - Durba Sengupta
- CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pune 411008, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
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95
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Arroyo-Urea S, Nazarova AL, Carrión-Antolí Á, Bonifazi A, Battiti FO, Lam JH, Newman AH, Katritch V, García-Nafría J. Structure of the dopamine D3 receptor bound to a bitopic agonist reveals a new specificity site in an expanded allosteric pocket. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3433207. [PMID: 38196573 PMCID: PMC10775388 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3433207/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Although aminergic GPCRs are the target for ~25% of approved drugs, developing subtype selective drugs is a major challenge due to the high sequence conservation at their orthosteric binding site. Bitopic ligands are covalently joined orthosteric and allosteric pharmacophores with the potential to boost receptor selectivity, driven by the binding of the secondary pharmacophore to non-conserved regions of the receptor. Although bitopic ligands have great potential to improve current medications by reducing off-target side effects, the lack of structural information on their binding mode impedes rational design. Here we determine the cryo-EM structure of the hD3R coupled to a GO heterotrimer and bound to the D3R selective bitopic agonist FOB02-04A. Structural, functional and computational analyses provide new insights into its binding mode and point to a new TM2-ECL1-TM1 region, which requires the N-terminal ordering of TM1, as a major determinant of subtype selectivity in aminergic GPCRs. This region is underexploited in drug development, expands the established secondary binding pocket in aminergic GPCRs and could potentially be used to design novel and subtype selective drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Arroyo-Urea
- Institute for Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI) and Laboratorio de Microscopías Avanzadas (LMA), University of Zaragoza, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Antonina L. Nazarova
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089
- Center for New Technologies in Drug Discovery and Development, Bridge Institute, Michelson Center for Convergent Biosciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ángela Carrión-Antolí
- Institute for Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI) and Laboratorio de Microscopías Avanzadas (LMA), University of Zaragoza, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Alessandro Bonifazi
- Medicinal Chemistry Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse – Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 333 Cassell Drive, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, United States
| | - Francisco O. Battiti
- Medicinal Chemistry Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse – Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 333 Cassell Drive, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, United States
| | - Jordy Homing Lam
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089
- Center for New Technologies in Drug Discovery and Development, Bridge Institute, Michelson Center for Convergent Biosciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Amy Hauck Newman
- Medicinal Chemistry Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse – Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 333 Cassell Drive, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, United States
| | - Vsevolod Katritch
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089
- Center for New Technologies in Drug Discovery and Development, Bridge Institute, Michelson Center for Convergent Biosciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Javier García-Nafría
- Institute for Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI) and Laboratorio de Microscopías Avanzadas (LMA), University of Zaragoza, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain
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96
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Choi C, Bae J, Kim S, Lee S, Kang H, Kim J, Bang I, Kim K, Huh WK, Seok C, Park H, Im W, Choi HJ. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of odorant binding and activation of the human OR52 family. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8105. [PMID: 38062020 PMCID: PMC10703812 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43983-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Structural and mechanistic studies on human odorant receptors (ORs), key in olfactory signaling, are challenging because of their low surface expression in heterologous cells. The recent structure of OR51E2 bound to propionate provided molecular insight into odorant recognition, but the lack of an inactive OR structure limited understanding of the activation mechanism of ORs upon odorant binding. Here, we determined the cryo-electron microscopy structures of consensus OR52 (OR52cs), a representative of the OR52 family, in the ligand-free (apo) and octanoate-bound states. The apo structure of OR52cs reveals a large opening between transmembrane helices (TMs) 5 and 6. A comparison between the apo and active structures of OR52cs demonstrates the inward and outward movements of the extracellular and intracellular segments of TM6, respectively. These results, combined with molecular dynamics simulations and signaling assays, shed light on the molecular mechanisms of odorant binding and activation of the OR52 family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chulwon Choi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungnam Bae
- Department of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Seonghan Kim
- Department of Bioengineering, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, 18015, USA
| | - Seho Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunook Kang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinuk Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Injin Bang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kiheon Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Ki Huh
- Department of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Chaok Seok
- Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hahnbeom Park
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Wonpil Im
- Department of Bioengineering, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, 18015, USA
- Departments of Biological Sciences, Chemistry, and Computer Science and Engineering, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, 18015, USA
| | - Hee-Jung Choi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
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97
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Cheng L, Xia F, Li Z, Shen C, Yang Z, Hou H, Sun S, Feng Y, Yong X, Tian X, Qin H, Yan W, Shao Z. Structure, function and drug discovery of GPCR signaling. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2023; 4:46. [PMID: 38047990 PMCID: PMC10695916 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-023-00156-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are versatile and vital proteins involved in a wide array of physiological processes and responses, such as sensory perception (e.g., vision, taste, and smell), immune response, hormone regulation, and neurotransmission. Their diverse and essential roles in the body make them a significant focus for pharmaceutical research and drug development. Currently, approximately 35% of marketed drugs directly target GPCRs, underscoring their prominence as therapeutic targets. Recent advances in structural biology have substantially deepened our understanding of GPCR activation mechanisms and interactions with G-protein and arrestin signaling pathways. This review offers an in-depth exploration of both traditional and recent methods in GPCR structure analysis. It presents structure-based insights into ligand recognition and receptor activation mechanisms and delves deeper into the mechanisms of canonical and noncanonical signaling pathways downstream of GPCRs. Furthermore, it highlights recent advancements in GPCR-related drug discovery and development. Particular emphasis is placed on GPCR selective drugs, allosteric and biased signaling, polyphamarcology, and antibody drugs. Our goal is to provide researchers with a thorough and updated understanding of GPCR structure determination, signaling pathway investigation, and drug development. This foundation aims to propel forward-thinking therapeutic approaches that target GPCRs, drawing upon the latest insights into GPCR ligand selectivity, activation, and biased signaling mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Cheng
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Fan Xia
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ziyan Li
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Chenglong Shen
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhiqian Yang
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Hanlin Hou
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Suyue Sun
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuying Feng
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xihao Yong
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaowen Tian
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Hongxi Qin
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Zhenhua Shao
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
- Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Frontiers Medical Center, Chengdu, 610212, China.
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98
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Sun D, Sun Y, Janezic E, Zhou T, Johnson M, Azumaya C, Noreng S, Chiu C, Seki A, Arenzana TL, Nicoludis JM, Shi Y, Wang B, Ho H, Joshi P, Tam C, Payandeh J, Comps-Agrar L, Wang J, Rutz S, Koerber JT, Masureel M. Structural basis of antibody inhibition and chemokine activation of the human CC chemokine receptor 8. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7940. [PMID: 38040762 PMCID: PMC10692165 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43601-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The C-C motif chemokine receptor 8 (CCR8) is a class A G-protein coupled receptor that has emerged as a promising therapeutic target in cancer. Targeting CCR8 with an antibody has appeared to be an attractive therapeutic approach, but the molecular basis for chemokine-mediated activation and antibody-mediated inhibition of CCR8 are not fully elucidated. Here, we obtain an antagonist antibody against human CCR8 and determine structures of CCR8 in complex with either the antibody or the endogenous agonist ligand CCL1. Our studies reveal characteristic antibody features allowing recognition of the CCR8 extracellular loops and CCL1-CCR8 interaction modes that are distinct from other chemokine receptor - ligand pairs. Informed by these structural insights, we demonstrate that CCL1 follows a two-step, two-site binding sequence to CCR8 and that antibody-mediated inhibition of CCL1 signaling can occur by preventing the second binding event. Together, our results provide a detailed structural and mechanistic framework of CCR8 activation and inhibition that expands our molecular understanding of chemokine - receptor interactions and offers insight into the development of therapeutic antibodies targeting chemokine GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawei Sun
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Yonglian Sun
- Department of Antibody Engineering, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Eric Janezic
- Department of Biochemical and Cellular Pharmacology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Tricia Zhou
- Department of Biochemical and Cellular Pharmacology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Matthew Johnson
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Caleigh Azumaya
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Sigrid Noreng
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
- Septerna Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Cecilia Chiu
- Department of Antibody Engineering, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Akiko Seki
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
- Tune Therapeutics, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
| | - Teresita L Arenzana
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
- HIBio, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - John M Nicoludis
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Yongchang Shi
- Department of Biochemical and Cellular Pharmacology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Baomei Wang
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Hoangdung Ho
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Prajakta Joshi
- Department of Biomolecular Resources, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Christine Tam
- Department of Biomolecular Resources, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Jian Payandeh
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
- Exelixis Inc., Alameda, CA, 94502, USA
| | - Laëtitia Comps-Agrar
- Department of Biochemical and Cellular Pharmacology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Jianyong Wang
- Department of Biochemical and Cellular Pharmacology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Sascha Rutz
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA.
| | - James T Koerber
- Department of Antibody Engineering, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA.
| | - Matthieu Masureel
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA.
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99
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Zhang X, Weiß T, Cheng MH, Chen S, Ambrosius CK, Czerniak AS, Li K, Feng M, Bahar I, Beck-Sickinger AG, Zhang C. Structural basis of G protein-Coupled receptor CMKLR1 activation and signaling induced by a chemerin-derived agonist. PLoS Biol 2023; 21:e3002188. [PMID: 38055679 PMCID: PMC10699647 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemokine-like receptor 1 (CMKLR1), also known as chemerin receptor 23 (ChemR23) or chemerin receptor 1, is a chemoattractant G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that responds to the adipokine chemerin and is highly expressed in innate immune cells, including macrophages and neutrophils. The signaling pathways of CMKLR1 can lead to both pro- and anti-inflammatory effects depending on the ligands and physiological contexts. To understand the molecular mechanisms of CMKLR1 signaling, we determined a high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structure of the CMKLR1-Gi signaling complex with chemerin9, a nanopeptide agonist derived from chemerin, which induced complex phenotypic changes of macrophages in our assays. The cryo-EM structure, together with molecular dynamics simulations and mutagenesis studies, revealed the molecular basis of CMKLR1 signaling by elucidating the interactions at the ligand-binding pocket and the agonist-induced conformational changes. Our results are expected to facilitate the development of small molecule CMKLR1 agonists that mimic the action of chemerin9 to promote the resolution of inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Tina Weiß
- Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Mary Hongying Cheng
- Department of Computational and System Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Laufer Center for Physical and Quantitative Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
| | - Siqi Chen
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, California, United States of America
| | | | - Anne Sophie Czerniak
- Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kunpeng Li
- Cryo-EM core facility, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Mingye Feng
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, California, United States of America
| | - Ivet Bahar
- Department of Computational and System Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Laufer Center for Physical and Quantitative Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
| | | | - Cheng Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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100
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Wei S, Pour NG, Tiruvadi-Krishnan S, Ray AP, Thakur N, Eddy MT, Lamichhane R. Single-molecule visualization of human A 2A adenosine receptor activation by a G protein and constitutively activating mutations. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1218. [PMID: 38036689 PMCID: PMC10689853 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05603-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations that constitutively activate G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), known as constitutively activating mutations (CAMs), modify cell signaling and interfere with drugs, resulting in diseases with limited treatment options. We utilize fluorescence imaging at the single-molecule level to visualize the dynamic process of CAM-mediated activation of the human A2A adenosine receptor (A2AAR) in real time. We observe an active-state population for all CAMs without agonist stimulation. Importantly, activating mutations significantly increase the population of an intermediate state crucial for receptor activation, notably distinct from the addition of a partner G protein. Activation kinetics show that while CAMs increase the frequency of transitions to the intermediate state, mutations altering sodium sensitivity increase transitions away from it. These findings indicate changes in GPCR function caused by mutations may be predicted based on whether they favor or disfavor formation of an intermediate state, providing a framework for designing receptors with altered functions or therapies that target intermediate states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shushu Wei
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Niloofar Gopal Pour
- Department of Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Sriram Tiruvadi-Krishnan
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Arka Prabha Ray
- Department of Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Naveen Thakur
- Department of Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Matthew T Eddy
- Department of Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Rajan Lamichhane
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA.
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