A FlAsH-based FRET approach to determine G protein–coupled receptor activation in living cells

Tracking bio-molecules in live cells using quantum dots

Single particle tracking (SPT) techniques were developed to explore bio-molecules dynamics in live cells at single molecule sensitivity and nanometer spatial resolution. Recent developments in quantum dots (Qdots) surface coating and bio-conjugation schemes have made them most suitable probes for live cell applications. Here we review recent advancements in using quantum dots as SPT probes for live cell experiments.

Patch-clamp coordinated spectroscopy shows P2X2 receptor permeability dynamics require cytosolic domain rearrangements but not Panx-1 channels

ATP-gated P2X receptors display ion permeability increases within seconds of receptor activation as the channels enter the I(2) state, which is permeable to organic cations and dye molecules. The mechanisms underlying this important behavior are not completely understood. In one model, the I(2) state is thought to be due to opening of Pannexin-1 (Panx-1) channels, and, in the second, it is thought to be an intrinsic P2X property. We tested both models by measuring ion and dye permeability and used a patch-clamp coordinated spectroscopy approach to measure conformational changes. Our data show that Panx-1 channels make no detectable contribution to the P2X(2) receptor I(2) state. However, P2X(2) receptors display permeability dynamics, which are correlated with conformational changes in the cytosolic domain remote from the selectivity filter itself. Finally, the data illustrate the utility of a new approach, using tetracysteine tags and biarsenical fluorophores to measure site-specific conformational changes in membrane proteins.

Sustained Ca2+ signaling and delayed internalization associated with endothelin receptor heterodimers linked through a PDZ fingerThis article is one of a selection of papers published in the special issue (part 2 of 2) on Forefronts in Endothelin

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), including endothelin receptor A (ETA) and B (ETB), may form dimers or higher-order oligomers that profoundly influence signaling. Here we examined a PDZ finger motif within the C-terminus of ETA and its role in heterodimerization with ETB, and in homodimerization with itself, when expressed in HEK293 cells. Receptor dimerization was monitored by (i) fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between cyan fluorescent protein (CFP) (FRET donor) and tetracysteine/FlAsH (FRET acceptor) fused to the C-termini of ET receptors, and (ii) coimmunoprecipitation of ET receptors after mild detergent solubilization. Mutations in a PDZ finger motif at threonine403/serine404 eliminated FRET and reduced coimmunoprecipitation of heterodimers and homodimers. Functional consequences were evaluated by measuring mobilization of intracellular Ca2+ and internalization of receptors in response to a 10 nmol/L ET-1 challenge. PDZ mutations converted a sustained Ca2+ signal mediated by ETA:ETB heterodimers into a transient response, similar to that observed for homodimers or monomers. Heterodimers containing PDZ mutations were seen to internalize in a similar time domain (approximately 5 min) to the transient Ca2+ elevation and with similar kinetics to internalization of ETA homodimers or monomers. Without the PDZ mutations, heterodimers did not internalize over 15 min, suggesting the intriguing possibility that sustained Ca2+ signaling was a consequence (at least in part) of delayed internalization. The results are consistent with structural models of ETA-receptor dimerization that place threonine403/serine404 of the PDZ finger motif at the interaction interface between heterodimers and homodimers. Sustained Ca2+ signaling and delayed endocytosis of ETA:ETB heterodimers argues strongly for a unique dimer interface that impacts transmembrane signaling and internalization.

Fluorescence-based methods in the study of protein-protein interactions in living cells

Multiprotein complexes partake in nearly all cell functions, thus the characterization and visualization of protein-protein interactions in living cells constitute an important step in the study of a large array of cellular mechanisms. Recently, noninvasive fluorescence-based methods using resonance energy transfer (RET), namely bioluminescence-RET (BRET) and fluorescence-RET (FRET), and those centered on protein fragment complementation, such as bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC), have been successfully used in the study of protein interactions. These new technologies are nowadays the most powerful approaches for visualizing the interactions occurring within protein complexes in living cells, thus enabling the investigation of protein behavior in their normal milieu. Here we address the individual strengths and weaknesses of these methods when applied to the study of protein-protein interactions.

Adenosine A(2A) receptor dynamics studied with the novel fluorescent agonist Alexa488-APEC

G protein-coupled receptors, such as the adenosine A(2A) receptor, are dynamic proteins, which undergo agonist-dependent redistribution from the cell surface to intracellular membranous compartments, such as endosomes. In order to study the kinetics of adenosine A(2A) receptor redistribution in living cells, we synthesized a novel fluorescent agonist, Alexa488-APEC. Alexa488-APEC binds to adenosine A(2A) (K(i)=149+/-27 nM) as well as A(3) receptors (K(i)=240+/-160 nM) but not to adenosine A(1) receptors. Further, we characterized the dose-dependent increase in Alexa488-APEC-induced cAMP production as well as cAMP response element binding (CREB) protein phosphorylation, verifying the ligand's functionality at adenosine A(2A) but not A(2B) receptors. In live-cell imaging studies, Alexa488-APEC-induced adenosine A(2A) receptor internalization, which was blocked by the competitive reversible antagonist ZM 241385 and hyperosmolaric sucrose. Further, internalized adenosine A(2A) receptors co-localized with clathrin and Rab5, indicating that agonist stimulation promotes adenosine A(2A) receptor uptake through a clathrin-dependent mechanism to Rab5-positive endosomes. The basic characterization of Alexa488-APEC described here showed that it provides a useful tool for tracing adenosine A(2A) receptors in vitro.

The F-techniques: advances in receptor protein studies

Recent developments in advanced microscopy techniques, the so-called F-techniques, including Förster resonance energy transfer, fluorescence correlation spectroscopy and fluorescence lifetime imaging, have led to a wide range of novel applications in biology. The F-techniques provide quantitative information on biomolecules and their interactions and give high spatial and temporal resolution. In particular, their application to receptor protein studies has led to new insights into receptor localization, oligomerization, activation and function in vivo. This review focuses on the application of the F-techniques to the study of receptor molecules and mechanisms in the last three years and provides information on new modalities that will further improve their applicability and widen the range of biological questions that can be addressed.

Coiled-coil tag--probe system for quick labeling of membrane receptors in living cell

The specific labeling of proteins in living cells using a genetically encodable tag and a small synthetic probe targeting the tag has been craved as an alternative to widely used larger fluorescent proteins. We describe a rapid method with a small tag (21 amino acids) for the fluorescence labeling of cell-surface receptors using a high affinity coiled-coil formation without metals or enzymes. The peptide probes K3 (KIAALKE)3 and K4 (KIAALKE)4 labeled with a fluorophore specifically stained the surface-exposed tag sequence E3 (EIAALEK)3 attached to the N-terminus of the mouse-derived prostaglandin EP3 receptor in living cells (Kd = 64 and 6 nM for K3 and K4, respectively). The labeling was quick (<1 min), nontoxic, and available even in culture medium without affecting receptor function. As an application of this tractable method, the agonist-induced internalization of the human-derived 2-adrenergic receptor and epidermal growth factor receptor was successfully visualized.

Biarsenical-tetracysteine motif as a fluorescent tag for detection in capillary electrophoresis

Biarsenical dyes complexed to tetracysteine motifs have proven to be highly useful fluorescent dyes in labeling specific cellular proteins for microscopic imaging. Their many advantages include membrane permeability, relatively small size, stoichiometric labeling, high affinity, and an assortment of excitation/emission wavelengths. The goal of the current study was to determine whether the biarsenical labeling scheme could be extended to fluorescent detection of analytes in capillary electrophoresis. Recombinant protein or synthesized peptides containing the optimized tetracysteine motif "-C-C-P-G-C-C-" were labeled with biarsenical dyes and then analyzed by micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography (MEKC). The biarsenical-tetracysteine complex was stable and remained fluorescent under standard MEKC conditions for peptide and protein separations. The detection limit following electrophoresis in a capillary was less than 3 x 10(-20) mol with a simple laser-induced fluorescence system. A mixture of multiple biarsenical-labeled peptides and a protein were easily resolved. Demonstrating that the label did not interfere with bioactivity, a peptide-based enzyme substrate conjugated to the tetracysteine motif and labeled with a biarsenical dye retained its ability to be phosphorylated by the parent kinase. The feasibility of using this label for chemical cytometry experiments was shown by intracellular labeling and subsequent analysis of a recombinant protein possessing the tetracysteine motif expressed in living cells. The extension of the biarsenical-tetracysteine tag to fluorescent labeling of peptides and proteins in chemical separations is a valuable addition to biochemical and cell-based investigations.

Selective Labeling of Proteins with Chemical Probes in Living Cells

Selective labeling of proteins with small molecules introduces novel chemical and physical properties into proteins, enabling the target protein to be investigated or manipulated with various techniques. Different methods for labeling proteins in living cells have been developed by using protein domains, small peptides, or single amino acids. Their application in cells and in vivo has yielded novel insights into diverse biological processes.

Imaging the boundaries-innovative tools for microscopy of living cells and real-time imaging

Recently, light microscopy moved back into the spotlight, which is mainly due to the development of revolutionary technologies for imaging real-time events in living cells. It is truly fascinating to see enzymes “at work” and optically acquired images certainly help us to understand biological processes better than any abstract measurements. This review aims to point out elegant examples of recent cell-biological imaging applications that have been developed with a chemical approach. The discussed technologies include nanoscale fluorescence microscopy, imaging of model membranes, automated high-throughput microscopy control and analysis, and fluorescent probes with a special focus on visualizing enzyme activity, free radicals, and protein–protein interaction designed for use in living cells.

Endothelin receptor dimers evaluated by FRET, ligand binding, and calcium mobilization

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) mediates physiological responses via endothelin A (ET(A)) and B (ET(B)) receptors, which may form homo- and heterodimers with unknown function. Here, we investigated ET-receptor dimerization using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between receptors tagged with CFP (donor) and receptors tagged with tetracysteine-FlAsH (fluorescein arsenical hairpin) (acceptor) expressed in HEK293 cells. FRET efficiencies were 15%, 22%, and 27% for ET(A)/ET(A), ET(B)/ET(B), and ET(A)/ET(B), respectively, and dimerization was further supported by coimmunoprecipitation. For all dimer pairs, the natural but nonselective ligand ET-1 rapidly (<or=30 s) reduced FRET by >50%, but did not detectably reduce coimmunoprecipitation. ET-1 stimulated a transient increase in intracellular Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)](i)) lasting 1-2 min for both homodimer pairs, and these ET-1 actions on FRET and [Ca(2+)](i) elevation were blocked by the appropriate subtype-selective antagonist. In contrast, ET(A)/ET(B) heterodimers mediated a sustained [Ca(2+)](i) increase lasting >10 min, and required a combination of ET(A) and ET(B) antagonists to block the observed FRET and [Ca(2+)](i) responses. The sensitive CFP/FlAsH FRET assay used here provides new insights into endothelin-receptor dimer function, and represents a unique approach to characterize G-protein-coupled receptor oligomers, including their pharmacology.

Light resonance energy transfer-based methods in the study of G protein-coupled receptor oligomerization

Since most of the functions in cells are mediated by multimeric protein complexes, the determination of protein-protein interactions is an important step in the study of cellular mechanisms. Traditionally, after screening for possible target interactors by means of a yeast two-hybrid screen, several methods are used to validate the initial result before carrying out functional experiments. Nowadays, non-invasive fluorescence-based methods like Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer (BRET) and Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) are widely used in the study of protein-protein interactions in living cells. In the present review, we address the individual strengths and weaknesses of both RET approaches, providing information on their possible future use in the study of G protein-coupled receptor oligomerization.

Heterotrimeric G proteins and the single-transmembrane domain IGF-II/M6P receptor: functional interaction and relevance to cell signaling

The G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family represents the largest and most versatile group of cell surface receptors. Classical GPCR signaling constitutes ligand binding to a seven-transmembrane domain receptor, receptor interaction with a heterotrimeric G protein, and the subsequent activation or inhibition of downstream intracellular effectors to mediate a cellular response. However, recent reports on direct, receptor-independent G protein activation, G protein-independent signaling by GPCRs, and signaling of nonheptahelical receptors via trimeric G proteins have highlighted the intrinsic complexities of G protein signaling mechanisms. The insulin-like growth factor-II/mannose-6 phosphate (IGF-II/M6P) receptor is a single-transmembrane glycoprotein whose principal function is the intracellular transport of lysosomal enzymes. In addition, the receptor also mediates some biological effects in response to IGF-II binding in both neuronal and nonneuronal systems. Multidisciplinary efforts to elucidate the intracellular signaling pathways that underlie these effects have generated data to suggest that the IGF-II/M6P receptor might mediate transmembrane signaling via a G protein-coupled mechanism. The purpose of this review is to outline the characteristics of traditional and nontraditional GPCRs, to relate the IGF-II/M6P receptor's structure with its role in G protein-coupled signaling and to summarize evidence gathered over the years regarding the putative signaling of the IGF-II/M6P receptor mediated by a G protein.

Analysis of membrane-localized binding kinetics with FRAP

Interactions between plasma membrane-associated proteins on interacting cells are critical for many important biological processes. Few experimental techniques, however, can accurately determine the association and the dissociation rates between such interacting pairs when the two molecules diffuse on apposing membranes or lipid bilayers. In this study, we give a theoretical description of how and when fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) experiments can be used to quantify these reaction rates. We analyze the effect of binding on FRAP recovery curves with a reaction-diffusion model and systematically identify different regimes in the parameter space of the association and the dissociation constants for which the full model simplifies into equivalent one-parameter models. Based on this analysis, we propose an experimental protocol that may be used to identify the kinetic parameters of binding in the appropriate parameter regime. We present simulated experiments illustrating our protocol and lay down guidelines for parameter estimation.

Selective Chemical Labeling of Proteins with Small Fluorescent Molecules Based on Metal-Chelation Methodology

Site-specific chemical labeling utilizing small fluorescent molecules is a powerful and attractive technique for in vivo and in vitro analysis of cellular proteins, which can circumvent some problems in genetic encoding labeling by large fluorescent proteins. In particular, affinity labeling based on metal-chelation, advantageous due to the high selectivity/simplicity and the small tag-size, is promising, as well as enzymatic covalent labeling, thereby a variety of novel methods have been studied in recent years. This review describes the advances in chemical labeling of proteins, especially highlighting the metal-chelation methodology.

Constitutive and agonist-induced dimerizations of the P2Y1 receptor: relationship to internalization and scaffolding

In living cells, P2Y(1) receptor dimerization was quantitated by an improved version of fluorescence resonance energy transfer donor photobleaching analysis. 44% of the P2Y(1) receptors expressed in HEK293 cell membranes exist as dimers in the resting state, inducible by agonist exposure to give 85-100% dimerization. Monomer and constitutive dimers are fully active. Agonist-induced dimerization follows desensitization and is fully reversible upon withdrawal of agonist. Receptor dimers are required for internalization at 37 degrees C but are not sufficient; at 20 degrees C dimerization also occurs, but endocytosis is abolished. Removal of the C-terminal 19 amino acids abolished both dimerization and internalization, whereas full activation by agonists was retained up to a loss of 39 amino acids, confirming active monomers. This receptor is known to bind through its last four amino acids (DTSL) to a scaffolding protein, Na/H exchanger regulatory factor-2, which was endogenous here, and DTSL removal blocked constitutive dimerization specifically. Distinction should therefore be made between the following: 1) constitutive dimers tethered to a scaffolding protein, together with effector proteins, within a signaling micro-domain, and 2) free dimers in the cell membrane, which here are inducible by agonist exposure. For the class A G-protein-coupled receptors, we suggest that the percentages of free monomers, and in many cases of induced free dimers, commonly become artifactually increased; this would arise from an excess there of the receptor over its specific scaffold and from a lack of the native targeting of the receptor to that site.

Optical techniques to analyze real-time activation and signaling of G-protein-coupled receptors

The activation of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) is traditionally measured either by monitoring downstream physiological events or by membrane-based biochemical assays. Neither of these approaches permits detailed kinetic or spatial analysis of receptor activation and signaling. Recently, several optical techniques have been developed to monitor receptor activation either by using purified reconstituted GPCRs or by observing GPCRs, G proteins and second messengers in intact cells. These techniques are providing, literally, new views on both the mechanistic basis of the signaling process and the kinetic and spatial properties of GPCR-mediated signals. They suggest that agonists can activate GPCRs within milliseconds, that different compounds can induce distinct active conformations of GPCRs, that G-protein activation is the rate-limiting step in GPCR signaling, and that cellular signals can be temporally and spatially confined. They are also raising controversial issues, such as whether or not receptors and G proteins are pre-coupled and whether G proteins dissociate during activation.

Conformational changes in the parathyroid hormone receptor associated with activation by agonist

Binding of hormones to their cognate G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) induces conformational shifts within the receptor based on evidence from a few hormone-receptor systems. Employing an engineered disulfide bond formation strategy and guided by a previously established model of the PTH-PTH receptor (PTHR)1 bimolecular complex, we set out to document and characterize the nature of agonist-induced changes in this family B GPCR. A mutant PTHR1 was generated which incorporates a Factor Xa cleavage site in the third intracellular loop. Treatment with Factor Xa fragments the receptor. However, if a new disulfide bond was formed before exposure to the enzyme, the fragments remain held together. A set of double cysteine-containing mutants were designed to probe the internal relative movements of transmembrane (TM) helices 2 and TM7. PTH enhanced formation of disulfide bonds in the K240C/F447C and A242C/F447C mutants. For the F238C/F447C mutant, a disulfide bond is formed in the basal state, but is disrupted by interaction with PTH. For the D241C/F447C PTHR1 construct, no disulfide bond formation was observed in either the basal or hormone-bound state. These findings demonstrate that the conformation of PTHR1 is altered from the basal state when PTH is bound. Novel information regarding spatial proximities between TM2 and TM7 of PTHR1 and the nature of relative movements between the two transmembrane regions was revealed. The data confirm and extend the experimentally derived model of the PTH-PTHR1 complex and provide insights at a new level of detail into the early events in PTHR1 activation by PTH.

Kinetics of G-protein-coupled receptor signals in intact cells

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest group of cell surface receptors. They are stimulated by a variety of stimuli and signal to different classes of effectors, including several types of ion channels and second messenger-generating enzymes. Recent technical advances, most importantly in the optical recording with energy transfer techniques--fluorescence and bioluminescence resonance energy transfer, FRET and BRET--, have permitted a detailed kinetic analysis of the individual steps of the signalling chain, ranging from ligand binding to the production of second messengers in intact cells. The transfer of information, which is initiated by ligand binding, triggers a signalling cascade that displays various rate-controlling steps at different levels. This review summarizes recent findings illustrating the speed and the complexity of this signalling system.

Conformational cross-talk between alpha2A-adrenergic and mu-opioid receptors controls cell signaling

Morphine, a powerful analgesic, and norepinephrine, the principal neurotransmitter of sympathetic nerves, exert major inhibitory effects on both peripheral and brain neurons by activating distinct cell-surface G protein-coupled receptors-the mu-opioid receptor (MOR) and alpha2A-adrenergic receptor (alpha2A-AR), respectively. These receptors, either singly or as a heterodimer, activate common signal transduction pathways mediated through the inhibitory G proteins (G(i) and G(o)). Using fluorescence resonance energy transfer microscopy, we show that in the heterodimer, the MOR and alpha2A-AR communicate with each other through a cross-conformational switch that permits direct inhibition of one receptor by the other with subsecond kinetics. We discovered that morphine binding to the MOR triggers a conformational change in the norepinephrine-occupied alpha2A-AR that inhibits its signaling to G(i) and the downstream MAP kinase cascade. These data highlight a new mechanism in signal transduction whereby a G protein-coupled receptor heterodimer mediates conformational changes that propagate from one receptor to the other and cause the second receptor's rapid inactivation.

Visualization of protein interactions in living cells

Ligand binding to cell membrane receptors sets off a series of protein interactions that convey the nuances ofligand identity to the cell interior. The information may be encoded in conformational changes, the interaction kinetics and, in the case of multichain immunoreceptors, by chain rearrangements. The signals may be modulated by dynamic compartmentalization of the cell membrane, cellular architecture, motility, and activation--all of which are difficult to reconstitute for studies of receptor signaling in vitro. In this chapter, we will discuss how protein interactions in general and receptor signaling in particular can be studied in living cells by different fluorescence imaging techniques. Particularly versatile are methods that exploit Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), which is exquisitely sensitive to the nanometer-range proximity and orientation between fluorophores. Fluorescence correlation microscopy (FCM) can provide complementary information about the stoichiometry and diffusion kinetics of large complexes, while bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) and other complementation techniques can capture transient interactions. A continuing challenge is extracting from the imaging data the quantitative information that is necessary to verify different models of signal transduction.

Quantitative imaging for discovery and assembly of the metabo-regulome

Little is known about regulatory networks that control metabolic flux in plant cells. Detailed understanding of regulation is crucial for synthetic biology. The difficulty of measuring metabolites with cellular and subcellular precision is a major roadblock. New tools have been developed for monitoring extracellular, cytosolic, organellar and vacuolar ion and metabolite concentrations with a time resolution of milliseconds to hours. Genetically encoded sensors allow quantitative measurement of steady-state concentrations of ions, signaling molecules and metabolites and their respective changes over time. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) sensors exploit conformational changes in polypeptides as a proxy for analyte concentrations. Subtle effects of analyte binding on the conformation of the recognition element are translated into a FRET change between two fused green fluorescent protein (GFP) variants, enabling simple monitoring of analyte concentrations using fluorimetry or fluorescence microscopy. Fluorimetry provides information averaged over cell populations, while microscopy detects differences between cells or populations of cells. The genetically encoded sensors can be targeted to subcellular compartments or the cell surface. Confocal microscopy ultimately permits observation of gradients or local differences within a compartment. The FRET assays can be adapted to high-throughput analysis to screen mutant populations in order to systematically identify signaling networks that control individual steps in metabolic flux.

Conformational changes in G-protein-coupled receptors-the quest for functionally selective conformations is open

The G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) represent one the largest families of drug targets. Upon agonist binding a receptor undergoes conformational rearrangements that lead to a novel protein conformation which in turn can interact with effector proteins. During the last decade significant progress has been made to prove that different conformational changes occur. Today it is mostly accepted that individual ligands can induce different receptor conformations. However, the nature or molecular identity of the different conformations is still ill-known. Knowledge of the potential functionally selective conformations will help to develop drugs that select specific conformations of a given GPCR which couple to specific signalling pathways and may, ultimately, lead to reduced side effects. In this review we will summarize recent progress in biophysical approaches that have led to the current understanding of conformational changes that occur during GPCR activation.

Surveying polypeptide and protein domain conformation and association with FlAsH and ReAsH

Recombinant polypeptides and protein domains containing two cysteine pairs located distal in primary sequence but proximal in the native folded or assembled state are labeled selectively in vitro and in mammalian cells using the profluorescent biarsenical reagents FlAsH-EDT2 and ReAsH-EDT2. This strategy, termed bipartite tetracysteine display, enables the detection of protein-protein interactions and alternative protein conformations in live cells. As proof of principle, we show that the equilibrium stability and fluorescence intensity of polypeptide-biarsenical complexes correlates with the thermodynamic stability of the protein fold or assembly. Destabilized protein variants form less stable and less bright biarsenical complexes, which allows discrimination of live cells expressing folded polypeptide and protein domains from those containing disruptive point mutations. Bipartite tetracysteine display may provide a means to detect early protein misfolding events associated with Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and cystic fibrosis; it may also enable high-throughput screening of compounds that stabilize discrete protein folds.

Mechanisms underlying agonist efficacy

Agonist efficacy is a measure of how well an agonist can stimulate a response system linked to a receptor. Efficacy can be assessed in functional assays and various parameters (E(max), K(A)/EC(50), E(max).K(A)/EC(50)) determined. The E(max).K(A)/EC(50) parameter provides a good estimate of efficacy across the full range of efficacy. A convenient assay for the efficacy of agonists for some receptors is provided by the [(35)S]GTP[S] (guanosine 5'-[gamma-[(35)S]thio]triphosphate)-binding assay. In this assay, the normal GTP-binding event in GPCR (G-protein-coupled receptor) activation is replaced by the binding of the non-hydrolysable analogue [(35)S]GTP[S]. This assay may be used to profile ligands for their efficacy, and an example here is the D(2) dopamine receptor where an efficacy scale has been set up using this assay. The mechanisms underlying the assay have been probed. The time course of [(35)S]GTP[S] binding follows a pseudo-first-order reaction with [(35)S]GTP[S] binding reaching equilibrium after approx. 3 h. The [(35)S]GTP[S]-binding event is the rate-determining step in the assay. Agonists regulate the maximal level of [(35)S]GTP[S] bound, rather than the rate constant for binding. The [(35)S]GTP[S]-binding assay therefore determines agonist efficacy on the basis of the amount of [(35)S]GTP[S] bound rather than the rate of binding.

Molecular dissection of G protein preference using Gsalpha chimeras reveals novel ligand signaling of GPCRs

Although only 16 genes have been identified in mammals, several Galpha subunits can be simultaneously activated by G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) to modulate their complicated functions. Current GPCR assays are limited in the evaluation of selective Galpha activation, thus not allowing a comprehensive pathway screening. Because adenylyl cyclases are directly activated by G(s)alpha and the carboxyl termini of the various Galpha proteins determine their receptor coupling specificity, we proposed a set of chimeric G(s)alpha where the COOH-terminal five amino acids are replaced by those of other Galpha proteins and used these to dissect the potential Galpha linked to a given GPCR. Unlike G(q)alpha, G(12)alpha, and G(i)alpha outputs, compounding the signals from several Galpha members, the chimeric G(s)alpha proteins provide a superior molecular approach that reflects the previously uncharacterized pathways of GPCRs under the same cAMP platform. This is, to our knowledge, the first time allowing verification of the whole spectrum of Galpha coupling preference of adenosine A1 receptor, reported to couple to multiple G proteins and modulate many physiological processes. Furthermore, we were able to distinguish the uncharacterized pathways between the two neuromedin U receptors (NMURs), which distribute differently but are stimulated by a common agonist. In contrast to the G(q) signals mainly conducted by NMUR1, NMUR2 routed preferentially to the G(i) pathways. Dissecting the potential Galpha coupling to these GPCRs will promote an understanding of their physiological roles and benefit the pharmaceutical development of agonists/antagonists by exploiting the selective affinity toward a certain Galpha subclass.

Single- and dual-parameter FRET kinase probes based on pleckstrin

Here we describe protocols for preparing and using fluorescent probes that respond to conformational changes by altered Foerster resonance energy transfer (FRET) efficiencies upon phosphorylation or, in principle, other posttranslational modifications (PTMs). The sensor protein, a truncated version of pleckstrin, is sandwiched between short-wavelength-excitation green fluorescent protein (GFP2) and yellow fluorescent protein (EYFP). As a result of complex conformational changes of the protein upon phosphorylation, the introduction of a second PTM consensus sequence bestows sensitivity to a second modification and yields a dual-parameter probe. The first phase of the protocol lays out the cloning strategy for single- and dual-parameter FRET sensors, including the construction of a versatile platform into which different consensus sequences may be inserted to create diverse probes. Protocols for fluorescence microscopy of the probes in living cells and image processing are also described. Probe preparation takes 7 d; microscopy and image processing take 2 h.

Visualizing flock house virus infection in Drosophila cells with correlated fluorescence and electron microscopy

Virus assembly occurs in a complex environment and is dependent upon viral and cellular components being properly correlated in time and space. The simplicity of the flock house virus (FHV) capsid and the extensive structural, biochemical and genetic characterization of the virus make it an excellent system for studying in vivo virus assembly. The tetracysteine motif (CCPGCC), that induces fluorescence in bound biarsenical compounds (FlAsH and ReAsH), was genetically inserted in the coat protein, to visualize this gene product during virus infection. The small size of this modification when compared to those made by traditional fluorescent proteins minimizes disruption of the coat proteins numerous functions. ReAsH not only fluoresces when bound to the tetracysteine motif but also allows correlated electron microscopy (EM) of the same cell following photoconversion and osmium staining. These studies demonstrated that the coat protein was concentrated in discrete patches in the cell. High pressure freezing (HPF) followed by freeze substitution (FS) of infected cells showed that these patches were formed by virus particles in crystalline arrays. EM tomography (EMT) of the HPF/FS prepared samples showed that these arrays were proximal to highly modified mitochondria previously established to be the site of RNA replication. Two features of the mitochondrial modification are approximately 60 nm spherules that line the outer membrane and the large chamber created by the convolution induced in the entire organelle.

Rapid-mix flow cytometry measurements of subsecond regulation of G protein-coupled receptor ternary complex dynamics by guanine nucleotides

We have used rapid-mix flow cytometry to analyze the early subsecond dynamics of the disassembly of ternary complexes of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) immobilized on beads to examine individual steps associated with guanine nucleotide activation. Our earlier studies suggested that the slow dissociation of Galpha and Gbetagamma subunits was unlikely to be an essential component of cell activation. However, these studies did not have adequate time resolution to define precisely the disassembly kinetics. Ternary complexes were assembled using three formyl peptide receptor constructs (wild type, formyl peptide receptor-Galpha(i2) fusion, and formyl peptide receptor-green fluorescent protein fusion) and two isotypes of the alpha subunit (alpha(i2) and alpha(i3)) and betagamma dimer (beta(1)gamma(2) and beta(4)gamma(2)). At saturating nucleotide levels, the disassembly of a significant fraction of ternary complexes occurred on a subsecond time frame for alpha(i2) complexes and tau(1/2)< or =4s for alpha(i3) complexes, time scales that are compatible with cell activation. beta(1)gamma(2) isotype complexes were generally more stable than beta(4)gamma(2)-associated complexes. The comparison of the three constructs, however, proved that the fast step was associated with the separation of receptor and G protein and that the dissociation of the ligand or of the alpha and betagamma subunits was slower. These results are compatible with a cell activation model involving G protein conformational changes rather than disassembly of Galphabetagamma heterotrimer.

The evasive nature of drug efficacy: implications for drug discovery

The efficacy of a drug is generally determined by the drug's ability to promote a quantifiable biological response. In the context of the classical receptor-occupancy theory, the efficacy is considered an intrinsic property of the ligand/receptor pair, and it is often assumed to be the same for all the responses evoked by this pair. The recognition that a single receptor can engage different signalling pathways and that various drugs binding to this receptor might differentially influence each of these pathways led to the reassessment of the efficacy concept. Of particular notice is the fact that ligands that behave as agonists toward a given signalling pathway can act, through the same receptor, as antagonists or even inverse agonists on a different pathway in the same cell. These observations, variously referred to as 'ligand-directed trafficking of receptor signalling' (LDTRS), 'functional selectivity', 'biased agonism', 'ligand-biased efficacy', 'collateral efficacy' or 'pluridimensional efficacy', have important implications for the molecular definition of efficacy and the process of drug discovery.

Both ligand- and cell-specific parameters control ligand agonism in a kinetic model of g protein-coupled receptor signaling

G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs) exist in multiple dynamic states (e.g., ligand-bound, inactive, G protein–coupled) that influence G protein activation and ultimately response generation. In quantitative models of GPCR signaling that incorporate these varied states, parameter values are often uncharacterized or varied over large ranges, making identification of important parameters and signaling outcomes difficult to intuit. Here we identify the ligand- and cell-specific parameters that are important determinants of cell-response behavior in a dynamic model of GPCR signaling using parameter variation and sensitivity analysis. The character of response (i.e., positive/neutral/inverse agonism) is, not surprisingly, significantly influenced by a ligand's ability to bias the receptor into an active conformation. We also find that several cell-specific parameters, including the ratio of active to inactive receptor species, the rate constant for G protein activation, and expression levels of receptors and G proteins also dramatically influence agonism. Expressing either receptor or G protein in numbers several fold above or below endogenous levels may result in system behavior inconsistent with that measured in endogenous systems. Finally, small variations in cell-specific parameters identified by sensitivity analysis as significant determinants of response behavior are found to change ligand-induced responses from positive to negative, a phenomenon termed protean agonism. Our findings offer an explanation for protean agonism reported in β₂--adrenergic and α_2A-adrenergic receptor systems.

G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs) are transmembrane proteins involved in physiological functions ranging from vasodilation and immune response to memory. The binding of both endogenous ligands (e.g., hormones, neurotransmitters) and exogenous ligands (e.g., pharmaceuticals) to these receptors initiates intracellular events that ultimately lead to cell responses. We describe a dynamic model for G protein activation, an immediate outcome of GPCR signaling, and use it together with efficient parameter variation and sensitivity analysis techniques to identify the key cell- and ligand-specific parameters that influence G protein activation. Our results show that although ligand-specific parameters do strongly influence cell response (either causing increases or decreases in G protein activation), cellular parameters may also dictate the magnitude and direction of G protein activation. We apply our findings to describe how protean agonism, a phenomenon in which the same ligand may induce both positive and negative responses, may result from changes in cell-specific parameters. These findings may be used to understand the molecular basis of different responses of cell types and tissues to pharmacological treatment. In addition, these methods may be applied generally to models of cellular signaling and will help guide experimental resources toward further characterization of the key parameters in these networks.

Mapping the architecture of secretin receptors with intramolecular fluorescence resonance energy transfer using acousto-optic tunable filter-based spectral imaging

The molecular structure and agonist-induced conformational changes of class II G protein-coupled receptors are poorly understood. In this work, we developed and characterized a series of dual cyan fluorescent protein (CFP)-tagged and yellow fluorescent protein (YFP)-tagged secretin receptor constructs for use in various functional and fluorescence analyses of receptor structural variants. CFP insertions within the first or second intracellular loop domains of this receptor were tolerated poorly or partially, respectively, in receptors tagged with a carboxyl-terminal yellow fluorescent protein that itself had no effect on secretin binding or cAMP production. A similar CFP insertion into the third intracellular loop resulted in a plasma membrane-localized receptor that bound secretin and signaled normally. This fully active third-loop variant exhibited a significant decrease in fluorescence resonance energy transfer signals that were recorded with an acousto-optic tunable filter microscope after exposure to secretin agonist but not to a receptor antagonist. These data demonstrate changes in the relative positions of intracellular structures that support a model for secretin receptor activation.

Quantitative analysis of RNA-mediated protein-protein interactions in living cells by FRET

Specific assembly of ribonucleoprotein complexes is essential in controlling various cellular functions including gene regulation. Diverse scaffolds containing proteins or nucleic acids could play key roles in stabilizing specific ribonucleoprotein complexes by enhancing protein-protein or RNA-protein interactions. One such example is the assembly of active RNA polymerase II transcription elongation complex originating from HIV-1 long terminal repeat promoter that involves HIV-1-encoded Tat protein and viral mRNA structure, trans-activation responsive RNA, and human CyclinT1 which is a subunit of the positive transcription elongation factor complex b. By using genetically encoded fluorescent proteins fused with Tat and human CyclinT1, here we demonstrate that human CyclinT1 was diffused throughout the nucleus and specific interactions between Tat and human CyclinT1 altered the localization of human CyclinT1 to specific nuclear foci. We also found that trans-activation responsive RNA enhanced protein-protein interactions between human CyclinT1 and Tat in living cells. Our results highlights the importance of trans-activation responsive RNA as a scaffold for stable and high affinity assembly of two protein partners to form a regulatory switch essential in HIV-1 gene regulation. RNA-mediated assembly of ribonucleoprotein complexes could be a general mechanism for stable ribonucleoprotein complex formation and a key step in regulating other cellular processes and viral replication. Furthermore, our results suggest that Tat interactions with human CyclinT1 change the nuclear location of positive transcription elongation factor complex b to modulate positive transcription elongation factor complex b function and transcription of cellular genes.

Structure and conformational changes in the C-terminal domain of the beta2-adrenoceptor: insights from fluorescence resonance energy transfer studies

The C terminus of the beta(2)-adrenoceptor (AR) interacts with G protein-coupled receptor kinases and arrestins in an agonist-dependent manner, suggesting that conformational changes induced by ligands in the transmembrane domains are transmitted to the C terminus. We used fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) to examine ligand-induced structural changes in the distance between two positions on the beta(2)-AR C terminus and cysteine 265 (Cys-265) at the cytoplasmic end of transmembrane domain 6. The donor fluorophore FlAsH (Fluorescein Arsenical Helix binder) was attached to a CCPGCC motif introduced at position 351-356 in the proximal C terminus or at the distal C terminus. An acceptor fluorophore, Alexa Fluor 568, was attached to Cys-265. FRET analyses revealed that the average distances between Cys-265 and the proximal and distal FlAsH sites were 57 and 62A(,) respectively. These relatively large distances suggest that the C terminus is in an extended, relatively unstructured conformation. Nevertheless, we observed ligand-specific changes in FRET. All ligands induced an increase in FRET between the proximal C-terminal FlAsH site and Cys-265. Ligands that have been shown to induce arrestin-dependent ERK activation, including the catecholamine agonists and the inverse agonist ICI118551, led to a decrease in FRET between the distal FlAsH site and Cys-265, whereas other ligands had no effect or induced a small increase in FRET. Taken together the results provide new insight into the structure of the C terminus of the beta(2)-AR as well as ligand-induced conformational changes that may be relevant to arrestin-dependent regulation and signaling.

Real-time optical recording of beta1-adrenergic receptor activation reveals supersensitivity of the Arg389 variant to carvedilol

Antagonists of beta-adrenergic receptors (beta-ARs) have become a main therapeutic regimen for the treatment of heart failure even though the mechanisms of their beneficial effects are still poorly understood. Here, we used fluorescent resonance energy transfer-based (FRET-based) approaches to directly monitor activation of the beta(1)-AR and downstream signaling. While the commonly used beta-AR antagonists metoprolol, bisoprolol, and carvedilol displayed varying degrees of inverse agonism on the Gly389 variant of the receptor (i.e., actively switching off the beta(1)-AR), surprisingly, only carvedilol showed very specific and marked inverse agonist effects on the more frequent Arg389 variant. These specific effects of carvedilol on the Arg389 variant of the beta(1)-AR were also seen for control of beating frequency in rat cardiac myocytes expressing the 2 receptor variants. This FRET sensor permitted direct observation of activation of the beta(1)-AR in living cells in real time. It revealed that beta(1)-AR variants dramatically differ in their responses to diverse beta blockers, with possible consequences for their clinical use.

Tracking of human Y receptors in living cells--a fluorescence approach

Non-invasive methods for studying biological processes in living cells have become very important, also in the field of GPCR biochemistry. Great advancements in the application of fluorescence techniques as well as in the development and improvement of novel fluorophores allow the visualization of dynamic processes. Using these technologies, problems concerning receptor biosynthesis, internalization, recycling and degradation can be investigated. Here we compare the application of the different fluorescent tags EYFP, Lumiotrade mark and SNAPtrade mark to track hY(1) and hY(5) receptors in living cells.

Chemical tools for biomolecular imaging

The visualization of biologically relevant molecules and activities inside living cells continues to transform cell biology into a truly quantitative science. However, despite the spectacular achievements in some areas of cell biology, the majority of cellular processes still operate invisibly, not illuminated by even our brightest laser beams. Further progress therefore will depend not only on improvements in instrumentation but also increasingly on the development of new fluorophores and fluorescent sensors to target these activities. In the following, we review some of the recent approaches to generating such sensors, the methods to attach them to selected biomolecules, and their applications to various biological problems.

Characterization of twin toll-like receptors from rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): evolutionary relationship and induced expression by Aeromonas salmonicida salmonicida

Structure and function of factors contributing to the innate immune system of lower vertebrates, including fish are only sparsely characterized. We retrieved with RT-PCR cDNA copies of two closely related Toll-like receptors (TLR) from liver RNA of the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). The cDNA sequences are homologous to 95.6%. The phylogenetic analysis of their deduced amino acid sequences places these twin factors closely to other known TLRs from fish. The twin factors are equally expressed in all tissues analysed, most abundantly in spleen and head kidney and lowest in adipose tissue. Formalin-inactivated Aeromonas salmonicida pathogens induce their expression up to eight-fold in vitro in peripheral blood lymphocytes and in tissues from spleen and head kidney. Our sequence information will be useful to establish expression constructs for these factors necessary to analyse the pathogen specific signal transduction activating the innate immune defence in fish.

Some mechanistic insights into GPCR activation from detergent-solubilized ternary complexes on beads

The binding of full and partial agonist ligands (L) to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) initiates the formation of ternary complexes with G proteins [ligand-receptor-G protein (LRG) complexes]. Cyclic ternary complex models are required to account for the thermodynamically plausible complexes. It has recently become possible to assemble solubilized formyl peptide receptor (FPR) and beta(2)-adrenergic receptor (beta(2)AR) ternary complexes for flow cytometric bead-based assays. In these systems, soluble ternary complex formation of the receptors with G proteins allows direct quantitative measurements which can be analyzed in terms of three-dimensional concentrations (molarity). In contrast to the difficulty of analyzing comparable measurements in two-dimensional membrane systems, the output of these flow cytometric experiments can be analyzed via ternary complex simulations in which all of the parameters can be estimated. An outcome from such analysis yielded lower affinity for soluble ternary complex assembly by partial agonists compared with full agonists for the beta(2)AR. In the four-sided ternary complex model, this behavior is consistent with distinct ligand-induced conformational states for full and partial agonists. Rapid mix flow cytometry is used to analyze the subsecond dynamics of guanine nucleotide-mediated ternary complex disassembly. The modular breakup of ternary complex components is highlighted by the finding that the fastest step involves the departure of the ligand-activated GPCR from the intact G protein heterotrimer. The data also show that, under these experimental conditions, G protein subunit dissociation does not occur within the time frame relevant to signaling. The data and concepts are discussed in the context of a review of current literature on signaling mechanism based on structural and spectroscopic (FRET) studies of ternary complex components.

Kinetic Analysis of G Protein–Coupled Receptor Signaling Using Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer in Living Cells

We describe and review methods for the kinetic analysis of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) activation and signaling that are based on optical methods. In particular, we describe the use of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) as a means of analyzing conformational changes within a single protein (for example a receptor) or between subunits of a protein complex (such as a G protein heterotrimer) and finally between distinct proteins (such as a receptor and a G protein). These methods allow the analysis of signaling kinetics in intact cells with proteins that retain their essential functional properties. They have produced a number of unexpected results: fast receptor activation kinetics in the millisecond range, similarly fast kinetics for receptor-G protein interactions, but much slower activation kinetics for G protein activation.

G-protein-coupled receptors: past, present and future

The G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family represents the largest and most versatile group of cell surface receptors. Drugs active at these receptors have therapeutic actions across a wide range of human diseases ranging from allergic rhinitis to pain, hypertension and schizophrenia. This review provides a brief historical overview of the properties and signalling characteristics of this important family of receptors.

G protein coupled receptor structure and activation

G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are remarkably versatile signaling molecules. The members of this large family of membrane proteins are activated by a spectrum of structurally diverse ligands, and have been shown to modulate the activity of different signaling pathways in a ligand specific manner. In this manuscript I will review what is known about the structure and mechanism of activation of GPCRs focusing primarily on two model systems, rhodopsin and the beta(2) adrenoceptor.