Molecular determinants underlying the formation of stable intracellular G protein-coupled receptor-beta-arrestin complexes after receptor endocytosis*

Receptor trafficking via the perinuclear recycling compartment accompanied by cell division is necessary for permanent neurotensin cell sensitization and leads to chronic mitogen-activated protein kinase activation

Most G protein-coupled receptors are internalized after interaction with their respective ligand, a process that subsequently contributes to cell desensitization, receptor endocytosis, trafficking, and finally cell resensitization. Although cellular mechanisms leading to cell desensitization have been widely studied, those responsible for cell resensitization are still poorly understood. We examined here the traffic of the high affinity neurotensin receptor (NT1 receptor) following prolonged exposure to high agonist concentration. Fluorescence and confocal microscopy of Chinese hamster ovary, human neuroblastoma (CHP 212), and murine neuroblastoma (N1E-115) cells expressing green fluorescent protein-tagged NT1 receptor revealed that under prolonged treatment with saturating concentrations of neurotensin (NT) agonist, NT1 receptor and NT transiently accumulated in the perinuclear recycling compartment (PNRC). During this cellular event, cell surface receptors remained markedly depleted as detected by both confocal microscopy and (125)I-NT binding assays. In dividing cells, we observed that following prolonged NT agonist stimulation, NT1 receptors were removed from the PNRC, accumulated in dispersed vesicles inside the cytoplasm, and subsequently reappeared at the cell surface. This NT binding recovery allowed for constant cell sensitization and led to a chronic activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases p42 and p44. Under these conditions, the constant activation of NT1 receptor generates an oncogenic regulation. These observations support the potent role for neuropeptides, such as NT, in cancer progression.

Regulation of V2 vasopressin receptor degradation by agonist-promoted ubiquitination

The seven-transmembrane-spanning vasopressin V2 receptor (V2R) is a Gs-coupled receptor that is rapidly phosphorylated and internalized following stimulation with the agonist, arginine-vasopressin. Herein, we show that the V2R is ubiquitinated following agonist stimulation. V2R-ubiquitination is not observed in a beta-arrestin1,2 deleted mouse fibroblast cell line and is restored following introduction of beta-arrestin2, thus indicating that beta-arrestin2 is required for the ubiquitination of V2R. A mutant V2R (K268R) that is not ubiquitinated still activates Gs and internalizes with similar kinetics as the wild type receptor. Unstimulated wild type and K268R mutant receptors degrade at similar rates and have comparable half-lives of 217 +/- 17 and 245 +/- 29 min as determined by pulse-chase experiments. However, following agonist stimulation, the rate of receptor degradation for the wild type is enhanced (half-life of 69 +/- 19 min), whereas that of the mutant is only minimally affected (half-life of 188 +/- 11 min). These data suggest that V2R levels are regulated through at least two processes. In the absence of agonist stimulation, a slow degradative pathway operates that is independent of receptor ubiquitination. However, receptor stimulation leads to rapid beta-arrestin2-dependent ubiquitination of the receptor and increased degradation.

Multifaceted roles of beta-arrestins in the regulation of seven-membrane-spanning receptor trafficking and signalling

Beta-arrestins are cytosolic proteins that bind to activated and phosphorylated G-protein-coupled receptors [7MSRs (seven-membrane-spanning receptors)] and uncouple them from G-protein-mediated second messenger signalling pathways. The binding of beta-arrestins to 7MSRs also leads to new signals via activation of MAPKs (mitogen-activated protein kinases) such as JNK3 (c-Jun N-terminal kinase 3), ERK1/2 (extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2) and p38 MAPKs. By binding to endocytic proteins [clathrin, AP2 (adapter protein 2), NSF (N -ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion protein) and ARF6 (ADP-ribosylation factor 6)], beta-arrestins also serve as adapters to link the receptors to the cellular trafficking machinery. Agonist-promoted ubiquitination of beta-arrestins is a prerequisite for their role in receptor internalization, as well as a determinant of the differing trafficking patterns of distinct classes of receptors. Recently, beta-arrestins have also been implicated as playing novel roles in cellular chemotaxis and apoptosis. By virtue of their ability to bind, in a stimulus-dependent fashion, to 7MSRs as well as to different classes of cellular proteins, beta-arrestins serve as versatile adapter proteins that regulate the signalling and trafficking of the receptors.

Selective Interaction of ARF1 with the Carboxy-Terminal Tail Domain of the 5-HT2A Receptor

The 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor (5-HT2AR) is a member of the class I family of rhodopsin-related G protein-coupled receptors. The receptor is known to activate phospholipase C via the heterotrimeric G proteins Gq/11, but we showed previously that it can also signal through the phospholipase D (PLD) pathway in an ADP-ribosylation factor (ARF)-dependent manner that seems to be independent of Gq/11 (Mitchell et al., 1998). Both coimmunoprecipitation experiments and the effects of negative mutant ARF constructs on 5-HT2AR-induced PLD activation here suggested that ARF1 may play a greater role than ARF6 in the function of this receptor. Furthermore, we demonstrated using glutathione S-transferase (GST)-fusion proteins of receptor domains that ARF1 and ARF6 bind to the third intracellular loop (i3) and the carboxy terminal tail (ct) of the 5-HT2AR. The association of ARF1 with the ct domain of the receptor was stronger than its interaction with i3, or the interactions of ARF6 with either construct. Experiments using ARF mutants that are deficient in GTP loading, and the in vitro addition of GTPgammaS suggested that GTP loading enhances ARF1 binding to the receptor. The N376PxxY motif in the transmembrane 7 domain of the receptor (rather than a N376DPxxY mutant form) was shown to be essential for ARF-dependent PLD signaling and ARF1 coimmunoprecipitation. In GST-fusion proteins of the 5-HT2AR ct domain, mutation of Asn376 to Asp also markedly reduced ARF1-HA binding, although additional motifs in the Asn376-Asn384 sequence and to a lesser extent elsewhere, seem also to contribute to the interaction.

Palmitoylation of the V2 vasopressin receptor carboxyl tail enhances beta-arrestin recruitment leading to efficient receptor endocytosis and ERK1/2 activation

A large number of G protein-coupled receptors are palmitoylated on cysteine residues located in their carboxyl tail, but the general role of this post-translational modification remains poorly understood. Here we show that preventing palmitoylation of the V2 vasopressin receptor, by site-directed mutagenesis of cysteines 341 and 342, significantly delayed and decreased both agonist-promoted receptor endocytosis and mitogen-activated protein kinase activation. Pharmacological blockade of receptor endocytosis is without effect on the vasopressin-stimulated mitogen-activated protein kinase activity, excluding the possibility that the reduced kinase activation mediated by the palmitoylation-less mutant could result from altered receptor endocytosis. In contrast, two dominant negative mutants of beta-arrestin which inhibit receptor endocytosis also attenuated vasopressin-stimulated mitogen-activated protein kinase activity, suggesting that the scaffolding protein, beta-arrestin, represents the common link among receptor palmitoylation, endocytosis, and kinase activation. Coimmunoprecipitation and bioluminescence resonance energy transfer experiments confirmed that inhibiting receptor palmitoylation considerably reduced the vasopressin-stimulated recruitment of beta-arrestin to the receptor. Interestingly, the changes in beta-arrestin recruitment kinetics were similar to those observed for vasopressin-stimulated receptor endocytosis and mitogen-activated protein kinase activation. Taken together the results indicate that palmitoylation enhances the recruitment of beta-arrestin to the activated V2 vasopressin receptor thus facilitating processes requiring the scaffolding action of beta-arrestin.

Identification of Drosophila neuropeptide receptors by G protein-coupled receptors-beta-arrestin2 interactions

Activation of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) leads to the recruitment of beta-arrestins. By tagging the beta-arrestin molecule with a green fluorescent protein, we can visualize the activation of GPCRs in living cells. We have used this approach to de-orphan and study 11 GPCRs for neuropeptide receptors in Drosophila melanogaster. Here we verify the identities of ligands for several recently de-orphaned receptors, including the receptors for the Drosophila neuropeptides proctolin (CG6986), neuropeptide F (CG1147), corazonin (CG10698), dFMRF-amide (CG2114), and allatostatin C (CG7285 and CG13702). We also de-orphan CG6515 and CG7887 by showing these two suspected tachykinin receptor family members respond specifically to a Drosophila tachykinin neuropeptide. Additionally, the translocation assay was used to de-orphan three Drosophila receptors. We show that CG14484, encoding a receptor related to vertebrate bombesin receptors, responds specifically to allatostatin B. Furthermore, the pair of paralogous receptors CG8985 and CG13803 responds specifically to the FMRF-amide-related peptide dromyosuppressin. To corroborate the findings on orphan receptors obtained by the translocation assay, we show that dromyosuppressin also stimulated GTPgammaS binding and inhibited cAMP by CG8985 and CG13803. Together these observations demonstrate the beta-arrestin-green fluorescent protein translocation assay is an important tool in the repertoire of strategies for ligand identification of novel G protein-coupled receptors.

Heterodimerization of substance P and mu-opioid receptors regulates receptor trafficking and resensitization

The micro-opioid receptor (MOR1) and the substance P receptor (NK1) coexist and functionally interact in nociceptive brain regions; however, a molecular basis for this interaction has not been established. Using coimmunoprecipitation and bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET), we show that MOR1 and NK1 can form heterodimers in HEK 293 cells coexpressing the two receptors. Although NK1-MOR1 heterodimerization did not substantially change the ligand binding and signaling properties of these receptors, it dramatically altered their internalization and resensitization profile. Exposure of the NK1-MOR1 heterodimer to the MOR1-selective ligand [D-Ala2,Me-Phe4,Gly5-ol]enkephalin (DAMGO) promoted cross-phosphorylation and cointernalization of the NK1 receptor. Conversely, exposure of the NK1-MOR1 heterodimer to the NK1-selective ligand substance P (SP) promoted cross-phosphorylation and cointernalization of the MOR1 receptor. In cells expressing MOR1 alone, beta-arrestin directs the receptors to clathrin-coated pits, but does not internalize with the receptor. In cells expressing NK1 alone, beta-arrestin internalizes with the receptor into endosomes. Interestingly, in cells coexpressing MOR1 and NK1 both DAMGO and SP induced the recruitment of beta-arrestin to the plasma membrane and cointernalization of NK1-MOR1 heterodimers with beta-arrestin into the same endosomal compartment. Consequently, resensitization of MOR1-dependent receptor functions was severely delayed in coexpressing cells as compared with cells expressing MOR1 alone. Together, our findings indicate that MOR1 by virtue of its physical interaction with NK1 is sequestered via an endocytotic pathway with delayed recycling and resensitization kinetics.

The third intracellular loop and carboxyl tail of neurokinin 1 and 3 receptors determine interactions with beta-arrestins

Tachykinins interact with three neurokinin receptors (NKRs) that are often coexpressed by the same cell. Cellular responses to tachykinins depend on the NKR subtype that is activated. We compared the colocalization of NK1R and NK3R with beta-arrestins 1 and 2, which play major roles in receptor desensitization, endocytosis, and signaling. In cells expressing NK1R, the selective agonist Sar-Met-substance P induced rapid translocation of beta-arrestins 1 and 2 from the cytosol to the plasma membrane and then endosomes, indicative of interaction with both isoforms. In contrast, the NK3R interacted transiently with only beta-arrestin 2 at the plasma membrane. Despite these differences, both NK1R and NK3R similarly desensitized, internalized, and activated MAP kinases. Because interactions with beta-arrestins can explain differences in the rate of receptor resensitization, we compared resensitization of agonist-induced Ca2+ mobilization. The NK1R resensitized greater than twofold more slowly than the NK3R. Replacement of intracellular loop 3 and the COOH tail of the NK1R with comparable domains of the NK3R diminished colocalization of the NK1R with beta-arrestin 1 and accelerated resensitization to that of the NK3R. Thus loop 3 and the COOH tail specify colocalization of the NK1R with beta-arrestin 1 and determine the rate of resensitization.

GIPC binds to the human lutropin receptor (hLHR) through an unusual PDZ domain binding motif, and it regulates the sorting of the internalized human choriogonadotropin and the density of cell surface hLHR

By using a yeast two-hybrid screen we identified GIPC (GAIP-interacting protein C terminus), a protein with a type I PDZ domain as a novel human lutropin receptor (hLHR) binding partner. Pull-down and immunoprecipitation assays confirmed this interaction and showed that it is dependent on the PDZ domain of GIPC and the C-terminal tetrapeptide of the hLHR. To characterize the functional consequences of the GIPC-hLHR interaction, we used a small interfering RNA against GIPC to generate a clonal cell line that is deficient in GIPC. Studies with this cell line reveal that GIPC is partially responsible for the recycling of the hormone that is internalized by the hLHR and also for maintaining a relatively constant level of hLHR at the cell surface during hormone internalization.

Beta-arrestin 2 mediates endocytosis of type III TGF-beta receptor and down-regulation of its signaling

beta-Arrestins bind to activated seven transmembrane-spanning (7TMS) receptors (G protein-coupled receptors) after the receptors are phosphorylated by G protein-coupled receptor kinases (GRKs), thereby regulating their signaling and internalization. Here, we demonstrate an unexpected and analogous role of beta-arrestin 2 (betaarr2) for the single transmembrane-spanning type III transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) receptor (TbetaRIII, also referred to as betaglycan). Binding of betaarr2 to TbetaRIII was also triggered by phosphorylation of the receptor on its cytoplasmic domain (likely at threonine 841). However, such phosphorylation was mediated by the type II TGF-beta receptor (TbetaRII), which is itself a kinase, rather than by a GRK. Association with betaarr2 led to internalization of both receptors and down-regulation of TGF-beta signaling. Thus, the regulatory actions of beta-arrestins are broader than previously appreciated, extending to the TGF-beta receptor family as well.

The use of bioluminescence resonance energy transfer 2 to study neuropeptide Y receptor agonist-induced beta-arrestin 2 interaction

The neuropeptide Y (NPY) family peptides NPY, peptide YY (PYY), and pancreatic polypeptide (PP) bind to four G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs): Y1, Y2, Y4, and Y5. A key step in the desensitization and internalization of GPCRs is the association of the receptor with beta-arrestins. In the present study, these receptors were analyzed with respect to their ability to interact with GFP2-tagged beta-arrestin 2 using the new bioluminescence resonance energy transfer 2 method. Agonists induced a concentration-dependent association of beta-arrestin 2 with all four receptors. Whereas the Y1 receptor exhibited the highest maximum response and rapid association (t(1/2) = 3.4 min), the maximal signals for the association of Y2 and Y4 receptors were less than half of that of Y1, and the association rates were much slower. Interestingly, when evaluated at the Y4 receptor, the Y4 agonist 1229U91 [(Ile,Glu,Pro,Dpr,Tyr,Arg, Leu,Arg,Try-NH2)-2-cyclic(2,4'),(2',4)-diamide] was unable to provoke the same maximal response as human PP, suggesting that 1229U91 is a partial agonist. When stimulated by PYY, the Y5 receptor responded with a t(1/2) of 4.6 min and a maximal response approximately 60% of what was observed with Y1. Because beta-arrestins are key components in GPCR internalization, it is interesting to note that the receptor that is known to internalize rapidly (Y1) exhibits the most rapid association with beta-arrestin 2, whereas the receptor that is known to internalize slowly, or not at all (Y2) associates slowly with beta-arrestin 2.

The association of arrestin-3 with the follitropin receptor depends on receptor activation and phosphorylation

We have recently shown that the binding of arrestin-3 to the lutropin receptor (LHR) is dependent mostly on receptor activation rather than on phosphorylation. The experiments presented here were designed to test the involvement of these two events in the association of arrestin-3 with the closely related follitropin receptor (FSHR). Activation of the FSHR leads to the phosphorylation of residues in the first and third intracellular loops. Mutation of the phosphorylation sites in the third intracellular loop of the rat (r) FSHR partially reduces phosphorylation but has no effect on arrestin-3 association. Mutation of the phosphorylation sites in the first intracellular loop abolishes phosphorylation and arrestin-3 association. Dominant-negative mutants of G protein-coupled receptor kinase (GRKs) 2 and 6 inhibit rFSHR phosphorylation to the same extent but only the dominant-negative mutant of GRK2 inhibits arrestin-3 association. Two mutations of the rFSHR (D389N and Y530F) that impair activation and abolish phosphorylation also impair arrestin-3 binding. GRK2 restores the phosphorylation of both mutants but it restores arrestin-3 association only to the D389N mutant. We conclude that, in contrast to the data obtained with the LHR, the association of arrestin-3 with the FSHR is dependent on receptor phosphorylation. The phosphorylation of the third intracellular loop residues is not needed for arrestin-3 association, however.

G Protein-Coupled Receptor Desensitization as a Measure of Signaling: Modeling of Arrestin Recruitment to Activated CCK-B Receptors

Gastrin is one of the principle hormonal mediators of gastric acid secretion, and its cognate receptor (CCK-B) is a member of the superfamily of GPCRs. Patients with hypergastrinemia may present with a variety of symptoms, including gastric ulcers or malignant tumors. Thus, the molecular mechanisms that terminate CCK-B receptor signaling, as well as an ability to measure gastrin bioactivity in a timely manner, have important clinical implications. In order to assess CCK-B receptor regulation, we have constructed a single cell biosensor containing the CCK-B receptor and an arrestin/GFP chimera. The gastrin biosensor responded to both immunologically detectable gastrin-17 and undetectable pentagastrin, and was able to determine the gastrin bioactivity of serum from a patient with clinical hypergastrinemia. We determined that the CCK-B receptor binds arrestin with a pharmacology mirroring CCK-B receptor signaling through inositol phosphate, and that the rate of arrestin dissociation from internalized receptor mirrors receptor recycling to the plasma membrane. Moreover, the CCK-B recycling rate is intermediate between that of Class A GPCRs such as the beta2-adrenergic receptor and Class B GPCRs such as the vasopressin type 2 receptor. Mathematical modeling of these results indicates that a common receptor conformation may underlie both CCK-B signaling and desensitization. In addition to its use in drug screening, this methodology should generalize to other receptors for use in diagnosis and monitoring of bioactive ligands involved in GPCR-based disease.

Trafficking patterns of beta-arrestin and G protein-coupled receptors determined by the kinetics of beta-arrestin deubiquitination

Agonist-dependent internalization of G protein-coupled receptors via clathrin-coated pits is dependent on the adaptor protein beta-arrestin, which interacts with elements of the endocytic machinery such as AP2 and clathrin. For the beta(2)-adrenergic receptor (beta(2)AR) this requires ubiquitination of beta-arrestin by E3 ubiquitin ligase, Mdm2. Based on trafficking patterns and affinity of beta-arrestin, G protein-coupled receptors are categorized into two classes. For class A receptors (e.g. beta(2)AR), which recycle rapidly, beta-arrestin directs the receptors to clathrin-coated pits but does not internalize with them. For class B receptors (e.g. V2 vasopressin receptors), which recycle slowly, beta-arrestin internalizes with the receptor into endosomes. In COS-7 and human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293 cells, stimulation of the beta(2)AR or V2 vasopressin receptor leads, respectively, to transient or stable beta-arrestin ubiquitination. The time course of ubiquitination and deubiquitination of beta-arrestin correlates with its association with and dissociation from each type of receptor. Chimeric receptors, constructed by switching the cytoplasmic tails of the two classes of receptors (beta(2)AR and V2 vasopressin receptors), demonstrate reversal of the patterns of both beta-arrestin trafficking and beta-arrestin ubiquitination. To explore the functional consequences of beta-arrestin ubiquitination we constructed a yellow fluorescent protein-tagged beta-arrestin2-ubiquitin chimera that cannot be deubiquitinated by cellular deubiquitinases. This "permanently ubiquitinated" beta-arrestin did not dissociate from the beta(2)AR but rather internalized with it into endosomes, thus transforming this class A receptor into a class B receptor with respect to its trafficking pattern. Overexpression of this beta-arrestin ubiquitin chimera in HEK-293 cells also results in enhancement of beta(2)AR internalization and degradation. In the presence of N-ethylmaleimide (an inhibitor of deubiquitinating enzymes), coimmunoprecipitation of the receptor and beta-arrestin was increased dramatically, suggesting that deubiquitination of beta-arrestin triggers its dissociation from the receptor. Thus the ubiquitination status of beta-arrestin determines the stability of the receptor-beta-arrestin complex as well as the trafficking pattern of beta-arrestin.

The nature of the arrestin x receptor complex determines the ultimate fate of the internalized receptor

The vast majority of G protein-coupled receptors are desensitized by a uniform two-step mechanism: phosphorylation of an active receptor followed by arrestin binding. The arrestin x receptor complex is then internalized. Internalized receptor can be recycled back to the plasma membrane (resensitization) or targeted to lysosomes for degradation (down-regulation). The intracellular compartment where this choice is made and the molecular mechanisms involved are largely unknown. Here we used two arrestin2 mutants that bind with high affinity to phosphorylated and unphosphorylated agonist-activated beta 2-adrenergic receptor to manipulate the receptor-arrestin interface. We found that mutants support rapid internalization of beta 2-adrenergic receptor similar to wild type arrestin2. At the same time, phosphorylation-independent arrestin2 mutants facilitate receptor recycling and sharply reduce the rate of receptor loss, effectively protecting beta 2-adrenergic receptor from down-regulation even after very long (up to 24 h) agonist exposure. Phosphorylation-independent arrestin2 mutants dramatically reduce receptor phosphorylation in response to an agonist both in vitro and in cells. Interestingly, co-expression of high levels of beta-adrenergic receptor kinase restores receptor down-regulation in the presence of mutants to the levels observed with wild type arrestin2. Our data suggest that unphosphorylated receptor internalized in complex with mutant arrestins recycles faster than phosphoreceptor and is less likely to get degraded. Thus, targeted manipulation of the characteristics of an arrestin protein that binds to a G protein-coupled receptors can dramatically change receptor trafficking and its ultimate fate in a cell.

Regulation of epidermal growth factor receptor internalization by G protein-coupled receptors

The epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR) plays a central role in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. Cellular responses to EGF are dependent upon the amount of EGFR present on the cell surface. Stimulation with EGF induces sequestration of the receptor from the plasma membrane and its subsequent downregulation. Recently, internalization of the EGFR was also shown to be required for mitogenic signaling via the activation of MAP kinases. Therefore, mechanisms regulating internalization of the EGFR represent an important facet for the control of cellular response. Here, we demonstrate that EGFR is removed from the cell surface not only following stimulation with EGF, but also in response to stimulation of G protein-coupled lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and beta2 adrenergic (beta2AR) receptors. Using a FLAG epitope-tagged EGFR to quantitate receptor internalization, we show that incubation with EGF, LPA, or isoproterenol (ISO) causes the time-dependent loss of cell surface EGFR. Internalization of EGFR by these ligands involves the tyrosine kinase activity of the receptor itself and c-Src, as well as the GTPase activity of dynamin. Unexpectedly, we find that internalization of the EGFR by EGF is dependent upon Gbetagamma and beta-arrestin proteins; expression of minigenes encoding the carboxyl terminii of the G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2, or beta-arrestin1, attenuates LPA-, ISO-, and EGF-mediated internalization of EGFR. Thus, G protein-coupled receptors can control the function of the EGFR by regulating its endocytosis.

The stability of the G protein-coupled receptor-beta-arrestin interaction determines the mechanism and functional consequence of ERK activation

By binding to agonist-activated G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), beta-arrestins mediate homologous receptor desensitization and endocytosis via clathrin-coated pits. Recent data suggest that beta-arrestins also contribute to GPCR signaling by acting as scaffolds for components of the ERK mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade. Because of these dual functions, we hypothesized that the stability of the receptor-beta-arrestin interaction might affect the mechanism and functional consequences of GPCR-stimulated ERK activation. In transfected COS-7 cells, we found that angiotensin AT1a and vasopressin V2 receptors, which form stable receptor-beta-arrestin complexes, activated a beta-arrestin-bound pool of ERK2 more efficiently than alpha 1b and beta2 adrenergic receptors, which form transient receptor-beta-arrestin complexes. We next studied chimeric receptors in which the pattern of beta-arrestin binding was reversed by exchanging the C-terminal tails of the beta2 and V2 receptors. The ability of the V2 beta 2 and beta 2V2 chimeras to activate beta-arrestin-bound ERK2 corresponded to the pattern of beta-arrestin binding, suggesting that the stability of the receptor-beta-arrestin complex determined the mechanism of ERK2 activation. Analysis of covalently cross-linked detergent lysates and cellular fractionation revealed that wild type V2 receptors generated a larger pool of cytosolic phospho-ERK1/2 and less nuclear phospho-ERK1/2 than the chimeric V2 beta 2 receptor, consistent with the cytosolic retention of beta-arrestin-bound ERK. In stably transfected HEK-293 cells, the V2 beta 2 receptor increased ERK1/2-mediated, Elk-1-driven transcription of a luciferase reporter to a greater extent than the wild type V2 receptor. Furthermore, the V2 beta 2, but not the V2 receptor, was capable of eliciting a mitogenic response. These data suggest that the C-terminal tail of a GPCR, by determining the stability of the receptor-beta-arrestin complex, controls the extent of beta-arrestin-bound ERK activation, and influences both the subcellular localization of activated ERK and the physiologic consequences of ERK activation.

N-formyl peptide receptor phosphorylation domains differentially regulate arrestin and agonist affinity

Arrestins regulate the signaling and endocytosis of many G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). It has been suggested that the functions of arrestins are dependent upon both the number and pattern of phosphorylation sites present in an activated GPCR. However, little is currently known about the relationships between the sites of receptor phosphorylation, the resulting affinities of arrestin binding, and the ensuing mechanisms of receptor regulation for any given GPCR. To investigate these interactions, we used an active truncated mutant of arrestin (amino acids 1-382) and phosphorylation-deficient mutants of the N-formyl peptide receptor (FPR). In contrast to results with wild type arrestins, the truncated arrestin-2 protein bound to the unphosphorylated wild type FPR, although with lower affinity and a low affinity for the agonist as revealed by competition studies with heterotrimeric G proteins. Using FPR mutants, we further demonstrated that the phosphorylation status of serines and threonines between residues 328-332 is a key determinant that regulates the affinity of the FPR for arrestins. Furthermore, we found that the phosphorylation status of serine and threonine residues between amino acids 334 and 339 regulates the affinity of the receptor for agonist when arrestin is bound. These results suggest that the agonist affinity state of the receptor is principally regulated by phosphorylation at specific sites and is not simply a consequence of arrestin binding as has previously been proposed. Furthermore, this is the first demonstration that agonist affinity of a GPCR and the affinity of arrestin binding to the phosphorylated receptor are regulated by distinct receptor phosphodomains.

Human substance P receptor lacking the C-terminal domain remains competent to desensitize and internalize

Substance P receptor (SPR) and its naturally occurring splice-variant, lacking the C-terminal tail, are found in brain and spinal cord. Whether C-terminally truncated SPR desensitizes like full-length SPR is controversial. We used a multivaried approach to determine whether human SPR (hSPR) and a C-terminally truncated mutant, hSPRDelta325, differ in their desensitization and internalization. In HEK-293 cells expressing either hSPRDelta325 or hSPR, SP-induced desensitization of the two receptors was similar when measured by inositol triphosphate accumulation or by transient translocation of coexpressed PKCbetaII-GFP to the plasma membrane. Moreover, translocation of beta-arrestin 1 or 2-GFP (betaarr1-GFP or betaarr2-GFP) to the plasma membrane, and receptor internalization were also similar. However, hSPR and hSPRDelta325 differ in their phosphorylation and in their ability to form beta-arrestin-containing endocytic vesicles. Unlike hSPR, hSPRDelta325 is not phosphorylated to a detectable level in intact HEK293 cells, and whereas hSPR forms vesicles containing either betaarr1-GFP or betaarr2-GFP, hSPRDelta325 does not form any vesicles with betaarr1-GFP, and forms fewer vesicles with betaarr2-GFP. We conclude that truncated hSPR undergoes agonist-dependent desensitization and internalization without detectable receptor phosphorylation.

Neurokinin-1 versus mu-opioid receptor binding in rat nucleus tractus solitarius after single and recurrent intermittent hypoxia

G protein-coupled excitatory neurokinin-1 and inhibitory mu-opioid receptors exist in respiratory brainstem with their peptides and influence breathing. To assess their putative role in respiratory responses to hypoxia, neurokinin-1, and mu-opioid receptor binding was determined in the respiratory nucleus tractus solitarius of the mature rat after single and recurrent intermittent hypoxia versus normoxia. Hypoxia comprised six 5-min bouts of 8% O(2)-92% N(2) interceded by 5-min bouts in 21% O(2)-79% N(2) (normoxia), either on 6 consecutive days (recurrent intermittent hypoxia) or on the 6th day only (single intermittent hypoxia). Controls comprised six daily sessions in normoxia. To examine the plasticity in receptor response, brains were collected 5min, 2h, or 24h after the last gaseous exposure. Sections from each brainstem underwent quantitative film autoradiography with iodinated substance P and DAMGO for neurokinin-1 and mu-opioid receptors, respectively. Neurokinin-1 receptor binding decreased 5min after single and recurrent hypoxia and 2h after recurrent hypoxia, whereas mu-opioid binding remained unchanged. The binding of both receptors increased 24h after recurrent intermittent hypoxia. Neurokinin versus mu-opioid binding differences immediately posthypoxia might affect physiological responses to episodic hypoxia.

Homo- and hetero-oligomerization of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) receptor subtypes. Differential regulation of beta-arrestins 1 and 2

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are regulated by a complex network of mechanisms such as oligomerization and internalization. Using the GPCR subtypes for thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRHR1 and TRHR2), the aim of this study was to determine if subtype-specific differences exist in the trafficking process. If so, we wished to determine the impact of homo- and hetero-oligomerization on TRHR subtype trafficking as a potential mechanism for the differential cellular responses induced by TRH. Expression of either beta-arrestin 1 or 2 promoted TRHR1 internalization. In contrast, only beta-arrestin 2 could enhance TRHR2 internalization. The preference for beta-arrestin 2 by TRHR2 was supported by the impairment of TRHR2 trafficking in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) from either a beta-arrestin 2 knockout or a beta-arrestin 1/2 knockout, while TRHR1 trafficking was only abolished in MEFs lacking both beta-arrestins. The differential beta-arrestin-dependence of TRHR2 was directly measured in live cells using bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET). Both BRET and confocal microscopy were also used to demonstrate that TRHR subtypes form hetero-oligomers. In addition, these hetero-oligomers have altered internalization kinetics compared with the homo-oligomer. The formation of TRHR1/2 heteromeric complexes increased the interaction between TRHR2 and beta-arrestin 1. This may be due to conformational differences between TRHR1/2 hetero-oligomers versus TRHR2 homo-oligomers as a mutant TRHR1 (TRHR1 C335Stop) that does not interact with beta-arrestins, could also enhance TRHR2/beta-arrestin 1 interaction. This study demonstrates that TRHR subtypes are differentially regulated by the beta-arrestins and also provides the first evidence that the interactions of TRHRs with beta-arrestin may be altered by hetero-oligomer formation.

Hybrid formation between the intracellular faces of the bradykinin B2 and angiotensin II AT1 receptors and signal transduction

Most frequently, the physiologic functions of the angiotensin II (Ang II) type 1 receptor (AT1R) and bradykinin B2 receptor (BKB2R) are antagonistic, particularly with respect to the regulation of vascular tone. Despite major differences in their physiologic actions, the receptors share sequence similarities. Both link to Galpha(i) and Galpha(q) and transduce very similar signal paths, not only those relating to the traditional G-protein associated second messengers, but also those involved in transactivation mechanisms involving receptor tyrosine kinases. With respect to these paths, some differences in signaling may be accounted for by cell type specificity. However, alternative signal cascades for these two receptors are becoming increasingly evident. One such is the recruitment of signaling molecules upon receptor translocation and internalization. The AT1R translocates into clathrin-coated pits and internalizes upon recruitment of beta-arrestin 2 which then recruits ASK1 and JNK3. The BKB2R translocates and internalizes mainly via caveolae. Another signaling divergence may be due to the direct activation of small G-proteins by both receptors. AT1R activates the RhoA, Rac1, Cdc42 while BKB2R couples only with Rac1 and Cdc42. Both receptors may serve as docking stations for intracellular proteins. One such example is the YIPP motif within the C-terminus of the ATIR which associates with the JAK/STAT pathway. Another potential alternative is the activation of tyrosine/serine kinase phosphatases by BK. This mechanism may directly oppose some of the protein tyrosine/ serine kinase paths activated by AT1R. These alternative mechanisms in sum are potentially responsible for the diversion in signal transduction between these two receptors. Regardless of the route of action, our results suggest that in Rat-1 fibroblasts stably transfected with BKB2R, BK slightly decreases connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) mRNA level while in ATIR transfected cells Ang II increases CTGF mRNA markedly. To determine whether mutant hybrids can be formed between these two receptors which encompass some of the function of the donor receptor but bind the ligand of the recipient receptor, a series of hybrids were formed with BKB2R the recipient and AT1R the donor receptor. Some of these hybrids show resistance to exchanges with the AT1R and form receptors which either do not bind (IC1 exchanges) or demonstrate poor function but normal internalization (proximal C-terminus exchanges). However, other hybrids have proven very functional. For example, the IC2, IC3 and distal C-terminus of the BKB2R IC face can be replaced simultaneously with the AT1R resulting in an hybrid which binds BK, continues to signal, is internalized and resensitized. Formation of this and other less extensive hybrids is discussed. Some of these hybrids possess the capacity to function as the AT1R as exemplified by their ability to upregulate CTGF expression as wild-type (WT) AT1R.

Parathyroid hormone receptor recycling: role of receptor dephosphorylation and beta-arrestin

The recovery of PTH receptor (PTHR) function after acute homologous receptor desensitization and down-regulation in bone and kidney cells has been attributed to receptor recycling. To determine the role of receptor dephosphorylation in PTHR recycling, we performed morphological and functional assays on human embryonic kidney 293 cells stably expressing wild-type (wt) or mutant PTHRs. Confocal microscopy and ligand binding assays revealed that the wt PTHR is rapidly recycled back to the plasma membrane after removal of the agonist. Receptors that were engineered to either lack the sites of phosphorylation or to resemble constitutively phosphorylated receptors were able to recycle back to the plasma membrane with the same kinetics as the wt PTHR. The PTHR was found to be dephosphorylated by an enzyme apparently distinct from protein phosphatases 1 or 2A. The PTHR and beta-arrestin-2-green fluorescent protein (GFP) were found to stably colocalize during PTHR internalization, whereas after agonist removal and during receptor recycling, the colocalization slowly disappeared. Experiments using phosphorylation-deficient PTHRs and a dominant-negative form of beta-arrestin showed that beta-arrestin does not regulate the efficiency of PTHR recycling. These studies indicate that, unlike many G protein-coupled receptors, PTHR recycling does not require receptor dephosphorylation or its dissociation from beta-arrestin.

The Cellular Distribution of Fluorescently Labeled Arrestins Provides a Robust, Sensitive, and Universal Assay for Screening G Protein-Coupled Receptors

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have proven to be a rich source of therapeutic targets; therefore, finding compounds that regulate these receptors is a critical goal in drug discovery. The Transfluor technology utilizes the redistribution of fluorescently labeled arrestins from the cytoplasm to agonist-occupied receptors at the plasma membrane to monitor quantitatively the activation or inactivation of GPCRs. Here, we show that the Transfluor technology can be quantitated on the INCell Analyzer system (INCAS) using the vasopressin V(2) receptor (V(2)R), which binds arrestin with high affinity, and the beta(2)-adrenergic receptor (beta(2)AR), which binds arrestin with low affinity. U2OS cells stably expressing an arrestin-green fluorescent protein conjugate and either the V(2)R or the beta(2)AR were plated in 96-well plastic plates and analyzed by the INCAS at a screening rate of 5 min per plate. Agonist dose-response and antagonist dose-inhibition curves revealed signal-to-background ratios of approximately 25:1 and 8:1 for the V(2)R and beta(2)AR, respectively. EC(50) values agreed closely with K(d) values reported in the literature for the different receptor agonists. In addition, small amounts of arrestin translocation induced by sub-EC(50) doses of agonist were distinguished from the background noise of untreated cells. Furthermore, differences in the magnitude of arrestin translocation distinguished partial agonists from full agonists, and Z' values for these ligands were >0.5. These data show that the Transfluor technology, combined with an automated image analysis system, provides a direct, robust, and universal assay for high throughput screening of known and orphan GPCRs.

Maturation of respiratory control in the behaving mammal

Whereas in vitro techniques have contributed greatly to our understanding of detailed neuronal mechanisms of respiratory control, the integrated function of respiratory behavior requires studying conscious, unsedated subjects. Noninvasive approaches, meticulous chronic instrumentation for the recording of multiple respiratory indices, and correlations with brain studies performed after physiological manipulations in vivo can all be employed to get to some understanding of the maturation of respiratory control in the mammal. This article is a selective and critical overview of recent literature on methodologies that can be used in behaving subjects, the relationship of respiration to sleep-wake states, respiratory patterns during normoxia, and on respiratory responsiveness to hypercarbia and hypoxia, all emphasizing processes during development. It is hoped that this review will encourage new investigators interested in the regulation of breathing to resort to experimental approaches that will reveal the mysteries of respiratory behavior in the integrated organism.

Identification of a short linear sequence present in the C-terminal tail of the rat follitropin receptor that modulates arrestin-3 binding in a phosphorylation-independent fashion

The rat follitropin receptor (rFSHR) is an unusual G protein-coupled receptor in that agonist-induced activation leads to the phosphorylation of the first and third intracellular loops instead of the C-terminal tail. To determine regions of G protein-coupled receptors that affect internalization independently of phosphorylation we examined the effects of truncations of the C-terminal tail of the rFSHR on agonist-induced internalization. Our studies show that progressive truncations of a region flanked by residues 642 and 651 enhance the internalization of human follicle-stimulating hormone (hFSH). Further characterization of a mutant truncated at residue 649 (designated rFSHR-t649) and another mutant in which the 642-651 region was deleted in the context of the full-length rFSHR, designated rFSHR(Delta642-651), showed that both of them internalized hFSH at rates that were 2-3 times faster than rFSHR-wild type (wt). Like rFSHR-wt, however, the internalization of hFSH mediated by rFSHR-t649 and rFSHR(Delta642-651) can be inhibited with dominant-negative mutants of the non-visual arrestins or dynamin. Alanine-scanning mutagenesis of the 642-651 region suggests that the effects on internalization are not mediated by a single residue, however. In an attempt to understand the molecular basis of the enhanced internalization of hFSH mediated by these mutants we used an assay that can be readily used to assess the association of the rFSHR with the arrestin-3 in co-transfected cells. Using this assay we were able to show that, when compared with rFSHR-wt, rFSHR(Delta642-651) displays an approximately 4-fold enhancement in binding affinity for arrestin-3 and an approximately 1.7-fold reduction in maximal arrestin-3 binding capacity. We conclude that a short linear sequence present in the C-terminal tail of the rFSHR (642SATHNFHARK651) that is not phosphorylated limits internalization by lowering the affinity of the rFSHR for the endogenous non-visual arrestins.

mu-Opioid receptors desensitize less rapidly than delta-opioid receptors due to less efficient activation of arrestin

Receptor desensitization by G-protein receptor kinases (GRK) and arrestins is likely to be an important component underlying the development of tolerance to opioid drugs. Reconstitution of this process in Xenopus oocytes revealed distinct differences in the kinetics of GRK and arrestin regulation of the closely related opioid receptors mu (MOR), delta (DOR), and kappa (KOR). We demonstrated that under identical conditions, GRK and arrestin-dependent desensitization of MOR proceeds dramatically slower than that of DOR. Furthermore, GRK3 phosphorylation sites required for opioid receptor desensitization also greatly differ. The determinants for DOR and KOR desensitization reside in the carboxyl-terminal tail, whereas MOR depends on Thr-180 in the second intracellular loop. Although this later finding might indicate an inefficient phosphorylation of MOR Thr-180, increasing the amount of arrestin expressed greatly increased the rate of MOR desensitization to a rate comparable with that of DOR. Similarly, coexpression of a constitutively active arrestin 2(R169E) with MOR and DOR desensitized both receptors in an agonist-dependent, GRK-independent manner at rates that were indistinguishable. Together, these data suggest that it is the activation of arrestin, rather than its binding, that is the rate-limiting step in MOR desensitization. In addition, mutation of Thr-161 in DOR, homologous to MOR Thr-180, significantly inhibited the faster desensitization of DOR. These results suggest that DOR desensitization involves phosphorylation of both the carboxyl-terminal tail and the second intracellular loop that together leads to a more efficient activation of arrestin and thus faster desensitization.

Side-chain substitutions within angiotensin II reveal different requirements for signaling, internalization, and phosphorylation of type 1A angiotensin receptors

Binding of the peptide hormone angiotensin II (AngII) to the type 1 (AT(1A)) receptor and the subsequent activation of phospholipase C-mediated signaling, involves specific determinants within the AngII peptide sequence. In contrast, the contribution of such determinants to AT(1A) receptor internalization, phosphorylation and activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling is not known. In this study, the internalization of an enhanced green fluorescent protein-tagged AT(1A) receptor (AT(1A)-EGFP), in response to AngII and a series of substituted analogs, was visualized and quantified using confocal microscopy. AngII-stimulation resulted in a rapid, concentration-dependent internalization of the chimeric receptor, which was prevented by pretreatment with the nonpeptide AT(1) receptor antagonist EXP3174. Remarkably, AT(1A) receptor internalization was unaffected by substitution of AngII side chains, including single and double substitutions of Tyr(4) and Phe(8) that abolish phospholipase C signaling through the receptor. AngII-induced receptor phosphorylation was significantly inhibited by several substitutions at Phe(8) as well as alanine replacement of Asp(1). The activation of MAPK was only significantly inhibited by substitutions at position eight in the peptide and specific substitutions did not equally inhibit inositol phosphate production, receptor phosphorylation and MAPK activation. These results indicate that separate, yet overlapping, contacts made between the AngII peptide and the AT(1A) receptor select/induce distinct receptor conformations that preferentially affect particular receptor outcomes. The requirements for AT(1A) receptor internalization seem to be less stringent than receptor activation and signaling, suggesting an inherent bias toward receptor deactivation.

Arrestin variants display differential binding characteristics for the phosphorylated N-formyl peptide receptor carboxyl terminus

The phosphorylation-dependent binding of arrestins to cytoplasmic domains of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) is thought to be a crucial step in receptor desensitization. In some GPCR systems, arrestins have also been demonstrated to be involved in receptor internalization, resensitization, and the activation of signaling cascades. The objective of the current study was to examine binding interactions of members of the arrestin family with the formyl peptide receptor (FPR), a member of the GPCR family of receptors. Peptides representing the unphosphorylated and phosphorylated carboxyl terminus of the FPR were synthesized and bound to polystyrene beads via a biotin/streptavidin interaction. Using fluorescein-conjugated arrestins, binding interactions between arrestins and the bead-bound FPR carboxyl terminus were analyzed by flow cytometry. Arrestin-2 and arrestin-3 bound to the FPR carboxyl-terminal peptide in a phosphorylation-dependent manner, with K(d) values in the micromolar range. Binding of visual arrestin, which binds rhodopsin with high selectivity, was not observed. Arrestin-2-(1--382) and arrestin-3-(1--393), truncated mutant forms of arrestin that display phosphorylation-independent binding to intact receptors, were also observed to bind the bead-bound FPR terminus in a phosphorylation-dependent manner, but with much greater affinity than the full-length arrestins, yielding K(d) values in the 5--50 nm range. Two additional arrestin mutants, which are full-length but display phosphorylation-independent binding to intact GPCRs, were evaluated for their binding affinity to the FPR carboxyl terminus. Whereas the single point mutant, arrestin-2 R169E, displayed an affinity similar to that of the full-length arrestins, the triple point mutant, arrestin-2 I386A/V387A/F388A, displayed an affinity more similar to that of the truncated forms of arrestin. The results suggest that the carboxyl terminus of arrestin is a critical determinant in regulating the binding affinity of arrestin for the phosphorylated domains of GPCRs.

beta-Arrestin/AP-2 interaction in G protein-coupled receptor internalization: identification of a beta-arrestin binging site in beta 2-adaptin

beta-Arrestins, proteins involved in the turn-off of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) activation, bind to the beta(2)-adaptin subunit of the clathrin adaptor AP-2. The interaction of beta(2)-adaptin with beta-arrestin involves critical arginine residues in the C-terminal domain of beta-arrestin and plays an important role in initiating clathrin-mediated endocytosis of the beta(2)-adrenergic receptor (beta(2)AR) (Laporte, S. A., Oakley, R. H., Holt, J. A., Barak, L. S., and Caron, M. G. (2000) J. Biol. Chem. 275, 23120--23126). However, the beta-arrestin-binding site in beta(2)-adaptin has not been identified, and little is known about the role of beta-arrestin/AP-2 interaction in the endocytosis of other GPCRs. Using in vitro binding assays, we have identified two glutamate residues (Glu-849 and Glu-902) in beta(2)-adaptin that are important in beta-arrestin binding. These residues are located in the platform subdomain of the C terminus of beta(2)-adaptin, where accessory/adapter endocytic proteins for other classes of receptors interact, distinct from the main site where clathrin interacts. The functional significance of the beta-arrestin/AP-2/clathrin complex in the endocytosis of GPCRs such as the beta(2)AR and vasopressin type II receptor was evaluated using mutant constructs of the beta(2)-adaptin C terminus containing either the clathrin and the beta-arrestin binding domains or the beta-arrestin-binding domain alone. When expressed in human embryonic kidney 293 cells, both constructs acted as dominant negatives inhibiting the agonist-induced internalization of the beta(2)AR and the vasopressin type II receptor. In addition, although the beta(2)-adaptin construct containing both the clathrin and beta-arrestin binding domains was able to block the endocytosis of transferrin receptors, a beta(2)-adaptin construct capable of associating with beta-arrestin but lacking its high affinity clathrin interaction did not interfere with transferrin receptor endocytosis. These results suggest that the interaction of beta-arrestin with beta(2)-adaptin represents a selective endocytic trigger for several members of the GPCR family.

Internalization determinants of the parathyroid hormone receptor differentially regulate beta-arrestin/receptor association

beta-Arrestins have been implicated in regulating internalization of the parathyroid hormone receptor (PTHR), but the structural features in the receptor required for this effect are unknown. In the present study performed in HEK-293 cells, we demonstrated that different topological domains of PTHR are implicated in agonist-dependent receptor internalization; truncation of the cytoplasmic tail (PTHR-TR), selective mutations of the cytoplasmic tail to remove the sites of parathyroid hormone (PTH)-stimulated phosphorylation (PTHR-PD), and mutations in the third transmembrane helix (N289A) or in the third cytoplasmic loop (K382A) resulted in a 30-60% reduction in (125)I-PTH-related protein internalization. To better define the role of these internalization determinants, we have tested the ability of these mutant PTHRs to associate with beta-arrestins by using three different methodological approaches: 1) ability of overexpression of beta-arrestins to restore the internalization of (125)I-PTH-related protein for the mutant PTHRs; 2) visualization of PTH-mediated trafficking of beta-arrestin1 and -2 fused to the green fluorescent protein with receptors by confocal microscopy; 3) quantification of beta-arrestin1-green fluorescent protein translocation by Western blot. Our data reveal that the receptor' cytoplasmic tail contains determinants of beta-arrestin interaction that are distinct from the phosphorylation sites and are sufficient for transient association of beta-arrestin2, but stable association requires receptor phosphorylation. Determinants in the receptor's core (Asn-289 and Lys-382) appear to regulate internalization of the receptor/beta-arrestin complex toward early endocytic endosomes during the initial step of endocytosis.

Localization of the human oxytocin receptor in caveolin-1 enriched domains turns the receptor-mediated inhibition of cell growth into a proliferative response

In this study, we investigated the functional role of the localization of human OTR in caveolin-1 enriched membrane domains. Biochemical fractionation of MDCK cells stably expressing the WT OTR-GFP indicated that only minor quantities of receptor are partitioned in caveolin-1 enriched domains. However, when fused to caveolin-2, the OTR protein proved to be exclusively localized in caveolin-1 enriched fractions, where it bound the agonist with increased affinity and efficiently coupled to Galpha(q/11). Interestingly, the chimeric protein was unable to undergo agonist-induced internalization and remained confined to the plasma membrane even after prolonged agonist exposure (120 min). A striking difference in receptor stimulation was observed when the OT-induced effect on cell proliferation was analysed: stimulation of the human WT OTR inhibited cell growth, whereas the chimeric protein had a proliferative effect. These data indicate that the localization of human OTR in caveolin-1 enriched microdomains radically alters its regulatory effects on cell growth; the fraction of OTR residing in caveolar structures may therefore play a crucial role in regulating cell proliferation.

Arresting developments in heptahelical receptor signaling and regulation

It is well established that the function of most heptahelical receptors (seven-transmembrane-span receptors; 7TMRs) is tightly regulated by the desensitizing actions of arrestins. Desensitization is the waning of 7TMR-mediated signals after prolonged exposure to agonist and occurs when arrestins bind to agonist-occupied and phosphorylated receptors, uncoupling the receptors from G proteins and preventing further signaling. Recently, there has been a marked shift in the focus of research into arrestin function because it has become clear that they not only prevent signaling from 7TMRs but also initiate and direct new signals from the very 7TMRs that they desensitize.

The role of β-arrestins in the termination and transduction of G-protein-coupled receptor signals

β-arrestins are versatile adapter proteins that form complexes with most G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) following agonist binding and phosphorylation of receptors by G-protein-coupled receptor kinases (GRKs). They play a central role in the interrelated processes of homologous desensitization and GPCR sequestration, which lead to the termination of G protein activation. β-arrestin binding to GPCRs both uncouples receptors from heterotrimeric G proteins and targets them to clathrin-coated pits for endocytosis. Recent data suggest that β-arrestins also function as GPCR signal transducers. They can form complexes with several signaling proteins,including Src family tyrosine kinases and components of the ERK1/2 and JNK3 MAP kinase cascades. By recruiting these kinases to agonist-occupied GPCRs,β-arrestins confer distinct signaling activities upon the receptor.β-arrestin-Src complexes have been proposed to modulate GPCR endocytosis,to trigger ERK1/2 activation and to mediate neutrophil degranulation. By acting as scaffolds for the ERK1/2 and JNK3 cascades, β-arrestins both facilitate GPCR-stimulated MAP kinase activation and target active MAP kinases to specific locations within the cell. Thus, their binding to GPCRs might initiate a second wave of signaling and represent a novel mechanism of GPCR signal transduction.

The association of arrestin-3 with the human lutropin/choriogonadotropin receptor depends mostly on receptor activation rather than on receptor phosphorylation

Although the involvement of the nonvisual arrestins in the agonist-induced internalization of the human lutropin receptor (hLHR) has been documented previously with the use of dominant-negative mutants, a physical association of the nonvisual arrestins with the hLHR in intact cells has not been established. In the studies presented herein, we used a cross-linking/coimmunoprecipitation/immunoblotting approach as well as confocal microscopy to document the association of the hLHR with the nonvisual arrestins in co-transfected 293 cells. We also used this approach to examine the relative importance of receptor activation and receptor phosphorylation in the formation of this complex. Using hLHR mutants that impair phosphorylation, activation, or both, we show that the formation of the hLHR-nonvisual arrestin complex depends mostly on the agonist-induced activation of the hLHR rather than on the phosphorylation of the hLHR. These results stand in contrast to those obtained with several other G protein-coupled receptors (i.e. the beta2-adrenergic receptor, the m2 muscarinic receptor, rhodopsin, and the type 1A angiotensin receptor) where arrestin binding depends mostly on receptor phosphorylation rather than on receptor activation. We have also examined the association of the nonvisual arrestins with naturally occurring gain-of-function mutations of the hLHR found in boys with Leydig cell hyperplasia or Leydig cell adenomas. Our results show that these mutants associate with the nonvisual arrestins in an agonist-independent fashion.

Rab5 association with the angiotensin II type 1A receptor promotes Rab5 GTP binding and vesicular fusion

Previous studies have demonstrated that the internalization of the angiotensin II type 1A receptor (AT(1A)R) may be mediated by both beta-arrestin-sensitive and -insensitive mechanisms. Therefore, we have used the AT(1A)R carboxyl-terminal tail to screen a rat brain yeast two-hybrid expression library for novel AT(1A)R-interacting proteins that might contribute to the regulation of AT(1A)R internalization. We have identified Rab5a as an AT(1A)R-binding protein that selectively associates with the AT(1A)R and not with the beta2-adrenergic receptor. A Rab5a-S34N mutant defective in GTP binding does not prevent the internalization of the AT(1A)R but does prevent the trafficking of the AT(1A)R into larger hollow cored vesicular structures. Agonist activation of the AT(1A)R promotes both the formation of Rab5a.AT(1A)R protein complexes and Rab5a GTP binding. Rab5a interactions with the AT(1A)R are mediated in part by the last 10 amino acid residues of the AT(1A)R carboxyl-terminal tail, and although a mutant receptor lacking these residues internalizes normally, it does not redistribute into larger hollow vesicles. Our data suggest that AT(1A)R activation modulates Rab5a activity leading to the homotypic fusion of endocytic vesicles. These observations suggest that vesicular cargo proteins, such as the AT(1A)R, may control their targeting between intracellular compartments by directly regulating the activity of components of the intracellular trafficking machinery such as Rab5a.

Beta-arrestin and Mdm2, unsuspected partners in signaling from the cell surface

Mdm2 is a ubiquitin-protein ligase known to ubiquitinate p53, promoting its degradation by the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Shenoy and co-workers showed that Mdm2 can act as a key factor in the sequestration of the cell surface beta(2)-adrenergic receptor (beta-AR) through interactions with beta-arrestin. Strous and Schantl discuss how Mdm2 may be a switch connecting extracellular signals mediated through G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) to p53 and its functions in apoptosis and cell cycle progression.

Agonist-promoted internalization of a ternary complex between calcitonin receptor-like receptor, receptor activity-modifying protein 1 (RAMP1), and beta-arrestin

The calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CRLR) is a seven-transmembrane domain (7TM) protein that requires the receptor activity-modifying protein 1 (RAMP1) to be expressed at the cell surface as a functional calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor. Although dimerization between the two molecules is well established, very little is known concerning the trafficking of this heterodimer upon receptor activation. Also, the subcellular localization and biochemical state of this ubiquitously expressed protein, in the absence of CRLR, remains poorly characterized. Here we report that when expressed alone RAMP1 is retained inside the cells where it is found in the endoplasmic reticulum and the Golgi predominantly as a disulfide-linked homodimer. In contrast, when expressed with CRLR, it is targeted to the cell surface as a 1:1 heterodimer with the 7TM protein. Although heterodimer formation does not involve intermolecular disulfide bonds, RAMP-CRLR association promotes the formation of intramolecular disulfide bonds within RAMP1. CGRP binding and receptor activation lead to the phosphorylation of CRLR and the internalization of the receptor as a stable complex. The internalization was found to be both dynamin- and beta-arrestin-dependent, indicating that the formation of a ternary complex between CRLR, RAMP1, and beta-arrestin leads to clathrin-coated pit-mediated endocytosis. These results therefore indicate that although atypical by its heterodimeric composition and its targeting to the plasma membrane, the CGRP receptor shares endocytotic mechanisms that are common to most classical 7TM receptors.

Agonist-induced signaling, desensitization, and internalization of a phosphorylation-deficient AT1A angiotensin receptor

An analysis of the functional role of a diacidic motif (Asp236-Asp237) in the third intracellular loop of the AT1A angiotensin II (Ang II) receptor (AT1-R) revealed that substitution of both amino acids with alanine (DD-AA) or asparagine (DD-NN) residues diminished Ang II-induced receptor phosphorylation in COS-7 cells. However, Ang II-stimulated inositol phosphate production, mitogen-activated protein kinase, and AT1 receptor desensitization and internalization were not significantly impaired. Overexpression of dominant negative G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2)K220M decreased agonist-induced receptor phosphorylation by approximately 40%, but did not further reduce the impaired phosphorylation of DD-AA and DD-NN receptors. Inhibition of protein kinase C by bisindolylmaleimide reduced the phosphorylation of both the wild-type and the DD mutant receptors by approximately 30%. The inhibitory effects of GRK2K220M expression and protein kinase C inhibition by bisindolylmaleimide on agonist-induced phosphorylation were additive for the wild-type AT1-R, but not for the DD mutant receptor. Agonist-induced internalization of the wild-type and DD mutant receptors was similar and was unaltered by coexpression of GRK2K220M. These findings demonstrate that an acidic motif at position 236/237 in the third intracellular loop of the AT1-R is required for optimal Ang II-induced phosphorylation of its carboxyl-terminal tail by GRKs. Furthermore, the properties of the DD mutant receptor suggest that not only Ang II-induced signaling, but also receptor desensitization and internalization, are independent of agonist-induced GRK-mediated phosphorylation of the AT1 receptor.

Classical and new roles of beta-arrestins in the regulation of G-protein-coupled receptors

In the classical model of G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) regulation, arrestins terminate receptor signalling. After receptor activation, arrestins desensitize phosphorylated GPCRs, blocking further activation and initiating receptor internalization. This function of arrestins is exemplified by studies on the role of arrestins in the development of tolerance to, but not dependence on, morphine. Arrestins also link GPCRs to several signalling pathways, including activation of the non-receptor tyrosine kinase SRC and mitogen-activated protein kinase. In these cascades, arrestins function as adaptors and scaffolds, bringing sequentially acting kinases into proximity with each other and the receptor. The signalling roles of arrestins have been expanded even further with the discovery that the formation of stable receptor-arrestin complexes initiates photoreceptor apoptosis in Drosophila, leading to retinal degeneration. Here we review our current understanding of arrestin function, discussing both its classical and newly discovered roles.