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Kenakin T. Know your molecule: pharmacological characterization of drug candidates to enhance efficacy and reduce late-stage attrition. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024:10.1038/s41573-024-00958-9. [PMID: 38890494 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-024-00958-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Despite advances in chemical, computational and biological sciences, the rate of attrition of drug candidates in clinical development is still high. A key point in the small-molecule discovery process that could provide opportunities to help address this challenge is the pharmacological characterization of hit and lead compounds, culminating in the selection of a drug candidate. Deeper characterization is increasingly important, because the 'quality' of drug efficacy, at least for G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), is now understood to be much more than activation of commonly evaluated pathways such as cAMP signalling, with many more 'efficacies' of ligands that could be harnessed therapeutically. Such characterization is being enabled by novel assays to characterize the complex behaviour of GPCRs, such as biased signalling and allosteric modulation, as well as advances in structural biology, such as cryo-electron microscopy. This article discusses key factors in the assessments of the pharmacology of hit and lead compounds in the context of GPCRs as a target class, highlighting opportunities to identify drug candidates with the potential to address limitations of current therapies and to improve the probability of them succeeding in clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry Kenakin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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2
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Kenakin T. Bias translation: The final frontier? Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:1345-1360. [PMID: 38424747 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Biased signalling is a natural result of GPCR allosteric function and should be expected from any and all synthetic and natural agonists. Therefore, it may be encountered in all agonist discovery projects and must be considered as a beneficial (or possible detrimental) feature of new candidate molecules. While bias is detected easily, the synoptic nature of GPCR signalling makes translation of simple in vitro bias to complex in vivo systems problematic. The practical outcome of this is a difficulty in predicting the therapeutic value of biased signalling due to the failure of translation of identified biased signalling to in vivo agonism. This is discussed in this review as well as some new ways forward to improve this translation process and better exploit this powerful pharmacologic mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry Kenakin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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3
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Guven B, Onay-Besikci A. Past and present of beta arrestins: A new perspective on insulin secretion and effect. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 956:175952. [PMID: 37541367 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Beta arrestins had been known as intracellular adaptors that uncouple and inactivate the G protein-coupled receptors that they interact with. Their roles as signal initiators for some receptors have recently been recognized. SCOPE OF REVIEW In this review, we focused on their role in mediating metabolic modulation primarily in relation to insulin signaling. Commenced by the upstream receptor, they seem to act like intracellular hubs that divert the metabolic profile of the cell. The amount of metabolic substrates in circulation and their usage/deposition by tissues are controlled by the contribution of all systems in the organism. This control is enabled by the release of hormones such as insulin, glucagon and glucagon-like peptide-1. Intriguingly, some ligands -either agonists or antagonists-of different classes of receptors have preferential properties mediated by β arrestins. This is not surprizing considering that substrate supply and usage should parallel physiological function such as hormone release or muscle contraction. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS Available data indicate that β arrestins conduct the regulatory role in insulin secretion and action. They may be good candidates to target when the upstream signal demands the function that may compromise the cell. An example is carvedilol that is protective by preventing the stimulatory effects of excessive catecholamines, stimulates mitochondrial function and has preferential clinical outcomes in metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berna Guven
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Arzu Onay-Besikci
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey.
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4
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Gibadullin R, Kim TW, Tran LML, Gellman SH. Hormone Analogues with Unique Signaling Profiles from Replacement of α-Residue Triads with β/γ Diads. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:20539-20550. [PMID: 37697685 PMCID: PMC10588032 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c06703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
We have applied an underexplored backbone modification strategy to generate new analogues of peptides that activate two clinically important class B1 G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Most peptide modification strategies involve changing side chains or, less commonly, changing the configuration at side chain-bearing carbons (i.e., l residues replaced by d residues). In contrast, backbone modifications alter the number of backbone atoms and the identities of backbone atoms relative to a poly-α-amino acid backbone. Starting from the peptide agonists PTH(1-34) (the first 34 residues of the parathyroid hormone, used clinically as the drug teriparatide) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (7-36) (GLP-1(7-36)), we replaced native α-residue triads with a diad composed of a β-amino acid residue and a γ-amino acid residue. The β/γ diad retains the number of backbone atoms in the ααα triad. Because the β and γ residue each bear a single side chain, we implemented ααα→βγ replacements at sites that contained a Gly residue (i.e., at α-residue triads that presented only two side chains). All seven of the α/β/γ-peptides derived from PTH(1-34) or GLP-1(7-36) bind to the cognate receptor (the PTHR1 or the GLP-1R), but they vary considerably in their activity profiles. Outcomes include functional mimicry of the all-α agonist, receptor-selective agonist activity, biased agonism, or strong binding with weak activation, which could lead to antagonist development. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that ααα→βγ replacements, which are easily implemented via solid-phase synthesis, can generate peptide hormone analogues that display unique and potentially useful signaling behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruslan Gibadullin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
- Present address: Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Tae Wook Kim
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Lauren My-Linh Tran
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Samuel H. Gellman
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
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5
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Chen K, Zhang C, Lin S, Yan X, Cai H, Yi C, Ma L, Chu X, Liu Y, Zhu Y, Han S, Zhao Q, Wu B. Tail engagement of arrestin at the glucagon receptor. Nature 2023; 620:904-910. [PMID: 37558880 PMCID: PMC10447241 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06420-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Arrestins have pivotal roles in regulating G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signalling by desensitizing G protein activation and mediating receptor internalization1,2. It has been proposed that the arrestin binds to the receptor in two different conformations, 'tail' and 'core', which were suggested to govern distinct processes of receptor signalling and trafficking3,4. However, little structural information is available for the tail engagement of the arrestins. Here we report two structures of the glucagon receptor (GCGR) bound to β-arrestin 1 (βarr1) in glucagon-bound and ligand-free states. These structures reveal a receptor tail-engaged binding mode of βarr1 with many unique features, to our knowledge, not previously observed. Helix VIII, instead of the receptor core, has a major role in accommodating βarr1 by forming extensive interactions with the central crest of βarr1. The tail-binding pose is further defined by a close proximity between the βarr1 C-edge and the receptor helical bundle, and stabilized by a phosphoinositide derivative that bridges βarr1 with helices I and VIII of GCGR. Lacking any contact with the arrestin, the receptor core is in an inactive state and loosely binds to glucagon. Further functional studies suggest that the tail conformation of GCGR-βarr governs βarr recruitment at the plasma membrane and endocytosis of GCGR, and provides a molecular basis for the receptor forming a super-complex simultaneously with G protein and βarr to promote sustained signalling within endosomes. These findings extend our knowledge about the arrestin-mediated modulation of GPCR functionalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chenhui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shuling Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyu Yan
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Heng Cai
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Cuiying Yi
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Limin Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaojing Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuchen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ya Zhu
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuo Han
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, China.
| | - Beili Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
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6
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Novikoff A, Müller TD. The Molecular Pharmacology of Glucagon Agonists in Diabetes and Obesity. Peptides 2023; 165:171003. [PMID: 36997003 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2023.171003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Within the past couple decades glucagon receptor agonism has drawn attention as a therapeutic tool for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. In both mice and humans glucagon-induced enhancements in energy expenditure and suppression of food intake suggest promising utility, therefore interest has advanced in the synthetic optimization of glucagon-based pharmacology to further resolve the physiological and cellular underpinnings. Modifications within the glucagon peptide sequence have allowed for greater solubility, stability, circulating half-life, and understanding of the structure-function potential behind partial and "super"-agonists. This knowledge gained from such modifications has provided a basis for the development of long-acting therapeutically useful glucagon analogues, chimeric unimolecular dual- and tri-agonists, and novel strategies for the targeting of nuclear hormones into glucagon receptor-expressing tissues. In this review, we summarize the peptide path leading to these glucagon-based developments in the field of anti-diabetes and anti-obesity pharmacology, while highlighting the associated biological and therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Novikoff
- Institute of Diabetes and Obesity, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Timo D Müller
- Institute of Diabetes and Obesity, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany.
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7
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Zhang X, Cai Y, Yao Z, Chi H, Li Y, Shi J, Zhou Z, Sun L. Discovery of novel OXM-based glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1)/glucagon receptor dual agonists. Peptides 2023; 161:170948. [PMID: 36646385 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2023.170948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Novel glucagon receptor (GCGR) and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1R) dual agonists are reported to have improved efficacy over GLP-1R mono-agonists in treating type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and obesity. Here, we describe the discovery of a novel oxyntomodulin (OXM) based GLP-1R/GCGR dual agonist with potent and balanced potency toward GLP-1R and GCGR. The lead peptide OXM-7 was obtained via stepwise rational design and long-acting modification. In ICR and db/db mice, OXM-7 exhibited prominent acute and long-acting hypoglycemic effects. In diet-induced obesity (DIO) mice, twice-daily administration of OXM-7 produced significant weight loss, normalized lipid metabolism, and improved glucose control. In DIO-nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) mice, OXM-7 treatment significantly reversed hepatic steatosis, and reduced serum and hepatic lipid levels. These preclinical data suggest the therapeutic potential of OXM-7 as a novel anti-diabetic, anti-steatotic and/or anti-obesity agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Zhang
- Food and Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Jiangsu Food & Pharmaceutical Science College, Huaian 223003, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Yuchen Cai
- School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Zhihong Yao
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Heng Chi
- Food and Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Jiangsu Food & Pharmaceutical Science College, Huaian 223003, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Yan Li
- Food and Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Jiangsu Food & Pharmaceutical Science College, Huaian 223003, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Jingjing Shi
- Food and Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Jiangsu Food & Pharmaceutical Science College, Huaian 223003, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Zhongbo Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, 98 Chengxiang Road, Baise 533000, Guangxi, PR China.
| | - Lidan Sun
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, Zhejiang, PR China.
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8
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Darbalaei S, Chang RL, Zhou QT, Chen Y, Dai AT, Wang MW, Yang DH. Effects of site-directed mutagenesis of GLP-1 and glucagon receptors on signal transduction activated by dual and triple agonists. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2023; 44:421-433. [PMID: 35953646 PMCID: PMC9889767 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-00962-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The paradigm of one drug against multiple targets, known as unimolecular polypharmacology, offers the potential to improve efficacy while overcoming some adverse events associated with the treatment. This approach is best exemplified by targeting two or three class B1 G protein-coupled receptors, namely, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R), glucagon receptor (GCGR) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor for treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Some of the dual and triple agonists have already shown initial successes in clinical trials, although the molecular mechanisms underlying their multiplexed pharmacology remain elusive. In this study we employed structure-based site-directed mutagenesis together with pharmacological assays to compare agonist efficacy across two key signaling pathways, cAMP accumulation and ERK1/2 phosphorylation (pERK1/2). Three dual agonists (peptide 15, MEDI0382 and SAR425899) and one triple agonist (peptide 20) were evaluated at GLP-1R and GCGR, relative to the native peptidic ligands (GLP-1 and glucagon). Our results reveal the existence of residue networks crucial for unimolecular agonist-mediated receptor activation and their distinct signaling patterns, which might be useful to the rational design of biased drug leads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaz Darbalaei
- The National Center for Drug Screening and CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Ru-Lue Chang
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Qing-Tong Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - An-Tao Dai
- The National Center for Drug Screening and CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Ming-Wei Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Research Center for Deepsea Bioresources, Sanya, 572025, China.
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
| | - De-Hua Yang
- The National Center for Drug Screening and CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Research Center for Deepsea Bioresources, Sanya, 572025, China.
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9
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Scheen AJ. Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists: New advances for treating type-2 diabetes. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2023; 84:316-321. [PMID: 36639119 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2022.12.423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists currently occupy a privileged place in the management of type-2 diabetes (T2D). Dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptides (GIP/GLP-1) have been recently developed. Tirzepatide is the most advanced unimolecular dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist to be used as once weekly subcutaneous injection in T2D and recently received approval by the European Medicines Agency. Because of the complementarity of action of the two incretins, tirzepatide showed better dose-dependent (5, 10 and 15mg) efficacy (greater reduction in HbA1c and body weight) than placebo, basal insulin or two GLP-1 analogues (dulaglutide and semaglutide) in the SURPASS program. Its cardiovascular protective effect is currently being assessed versus dulaglutide in the SURPASS-CVOT study. Finally, studies for the treatment of obesity (SURMOUNT program) and metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) are also ongoing. Gastrointestinal tolerance of tirzepatide appears comparable to that of GLP-1 analogues, except for higher incidence of diarrhea. Other original molecules have been built, including triple GIP/GLP-1/glucagon receptor agonists. The risk/benefit ratio will decide whether dual (or triple) receptor agonists should replace pure GLP-1 receptor agonists for the management of T2D in the near future, with a significant role in the pharmacotherapy of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- André J Scheen
- Division of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Disorders, Department of Medicine, CHU de Liège, Liège, Belgium; Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research on Medicines (CIRM), University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.
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10
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Zaffina I, Pelle MC, Armentaro G, Giofrè F, Cassano V, Sciacqua A, Arturi F. Effect of dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide/glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist on weight loss in subjects with obesity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1095753. [PMID: 36909312 PMCID: PMC9992880 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1095753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The occurrence of obesity is an increasing issue worldwide, especially in industrialized countries. Weight loss is important both to treat obesity and to prevent the development of complications. Currently, several drugs are used to treat obesity, but their efficacy is modest. Thus, new anti-obesity treatments are needed. Recently, there has been increased interest in the development of incretins that combine body-weight-lowering and glucose-lowering effects. Therefore, a new drug that simultaneously coactivates both the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor (GIPR) and the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) has been developed. Tirzepatide, the first in this class, improves glycemic control by increasing insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism as well as by reducing body weight. Combining the activation of the two receptors, greater improvement of β-cell function offers more effective treatment of diabetes and obesity with fewer adverse effects than selective GLP-1R agonists. In the present review, we discuss the progress in the use of GIPR and GLP-1R coagonists and review literature from in vitro studies, animal studies, and human trials, highlighting the synergistic mechanisms of tirzepatide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Zaffina
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Pelle
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Armentaro
- Geriatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Federica Giofrè
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Velia Cassano
- Geriatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Angela Sciacqua
- Geriatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Franco Arturi
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
- Research Centre for the Prevention and Treatment of Metabolic Diseases (CR METDIS), Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
- *Correspondence: Franco Arturi,
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11
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Kopp KO, Glotfelty EJ, Li Y, Greig NH. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and neuroinflammation: Implications for neurodegenerative disease treatment. Pharmacol Res 2022; 186:106550. [PMID: 36372278 PMCID: PMC9712272 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Chronic, excessive neuroinflammation is a key feature of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). However, neuroinflammatory pathways have yet to be effectively targeted in clinical treatments for such diseases. Interestingly, increased inflammation and neurodegenerative disease risk have been associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and insulin resistance (IR), suggesting that treatments that mitigate T2DM pathology may be successful in treating neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative pathology as well. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an incretin hormone that promotes healthy insulin signaling, regulates blood sugar levels, and suppresses appetite. Consequently, numerous GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) stimulating drugs have been developed and approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and related global regulatory authorities for the treatment of T2DM. Furthermore, GLP-1R stimulating drugs have been associated with anti-inflammatory, neurotrophic, and neuroprotective properties in neurodegenerative disorder preclinical models, and hence hold promise for repurposing as a treatment for neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we discuss incretin signaling, neuroinflammatory pathways, and the intersections between neuroinflammation, brain IR, and neurodegenerative diseases, with a focus on AD and PD. We additionally overview current FDA-approved incretin receptor stimulating drugs and agents in development, including unimolecular single, dual, and triple receptor agonists, and highlight those in clinical trials for neurodegenerative disease treatment. We propose that repurposing already-approved GLP-1R agonists for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases may be a safe, efficacious, and cost-effective strategy for ameliorating AD and PD pathology by quelling neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine O Kopp
- Drug Design & Development Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD 21224, United States.
| | - Elliot J Glotfelty
- Drug Design & Development Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD 21224, United States; Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Yazhou Li
- Drug Design & Development Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD 21224, United States
| | - Nigel H Greig
- Drug Design & Development Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD 21224, United States.
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12
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Zhao F, Zhou Q, Cong Z, Hang K, Zou X, Zhang C, Chen Y, Dai A, Liang A, Ming Q, Wang M, Chen LN, Xu P, Chang R, Feng W, Xia T, Zhang Y, Wu B, Yang D, Zhao L, Xu HE, Wang MW. Structural insights into multiplexed pharmacological actions of tirzepatide and peptide 20 at the GIP, GLP-1 or glucagon receptors. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1057. [PMID: 35217653 PMCID: PMC8881610 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28683-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucose homeostasis, regulated by glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucagon (GCG) is critical to human health. Several multi-targeting agonists at GIPR, GLP-1R or GCGR, developed to maximize metabolic benefits with reduced side-effects, are in clinical trials to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which tirzepatide, a GIPR/GLP-1R dual agonist, and peptide 20, a GIPR/GLP-1R/GCGR triagonist, manifest their multiplexed pharmacological actions over monoagonists such as semaglutide, we determine cryo-electron microscopy structures of tirzepatide-bound GIPR and GLP-1R as well as peptide 20-bound GIPR, GLP-1R and GCGR. The structures reveal both common and unique features for the dual and triple agonism by illustrating key interactions of clinical relevance at the near-atomic level. Retention of glucagon function is required to achieve such an advantage over GLP-1 monotherapy. Our findings provide valuable insights into the structural basis of functional versatility of tirzepatide and peptide 20. Multi-targeting agonists at GIPR, GLP-1R or GCGR are pursued vigorously. Here, the authors report cryo-EM structures of tirzepatide-bound GIPR and GLP-1R, peptide 20-bound GIPR, GLP-1R and GCGR, revealing the molecular basis of their multiplexed pharmacological actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenghui Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingtong Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhaotong Cong
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kaini Hang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyu Zou
- School of Artificial Intelligence and Automation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Antao Dai
- The National Center for Drug Screening, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Anyi Liang
- School of Artificial Intelligence and Automation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qianqian Ming
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mu Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-Nan Chen
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Peiyu Xu
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Rulve Chang
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenbo Feng
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tian Xia
- School of Artificial Intelligence and Automation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Beili Wu
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dehua Yang
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China. .,The National Center for Drug Screening, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China. .,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China. .,Research Center for Deepsea Bioresources, Sanya, Hainan, China.
| | - Lihua Zhao
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China. .,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - H Eric Xu
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China. .,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Ming-Wei Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. .,The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China. .,Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. .,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China. .,The National Center for Drug Screening, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China. .,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China. .,Research Center for Deepsea Bioresources, Sanya, Hainan, China.
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13
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Jones B. The therapeutic potential of GLP-1 receptor biased agonism. Br J Pharmacol 2022; 179:492-510. [PMID: 33880754 PMCID: PMC8820210 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are effective treatments for type 2 diabetes as they stimulate insulin release and promote weight loss through appetite suppression. Their main side effect is nausea. All approved GLP-1 agonists are full agonists across multiple signalling pathways. However, selective engagement with specific intracellular effectors, or biased agonism, has been touted as a means to improve GLP-1 agonists therapeutic efficacy. In this review, I critically examine how GLP-1 receptor-mediated intracellular signalling is linked to physiological responses and discuss the implications of recent studies investigating the metabolic effects of biased GLP-1 agonists. Overall, there is little conclusive evidence that beneficial and adverse effects of GLP-1 agonists are attributable to distinct, nonoverlapping signalling pathways. Instead, G protein-biased GLP-1 agonists appear to achieve enhanced anti-hyperglycaemic efficacy by avoiding GLP-1 receptor desensitisation and downregulation, partly via reduced β-arrestin recruitment. This effect seemingly applies more to insulin release than to appetite regulation and nausea, possible reasons for which are discussed. At present, most evidence derives from cellular and animal studies, and more human data are required to determine whether this approach represents a genuine therapeutic advance. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on GLP1 receptor ligands (BJP 75th Anniversary). To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v179.4/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Jones
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative MedicineImperial College LondonLondonUK
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14
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Spezani R, Mandarim-de-Lacerda CA. The current significance and prospects for the use of dual receptor agonism GLP-1/Glucagon. Life Sci 2022; 288:120188. [PMID: 34861287 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The therapeutic arsenal for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been enriched recently with the inclusion of type 1 glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1). GLP-1 receptor agonists (RA) secondarily reduce appetite, decrease gastric emptying, and reduce body weight. This effect has been used to treat overweight/obesity, especially with comorbidities associated with T2DM. However, the first formulations and adverse effects gradually gave way to new formulations with fewer unpleasant effects and a more extended period of action (weekly subcutaneous administration and even oral administration), which improved the acceptance and adherence to the treatment. Therefore, titration of GLP-1RA should be done gradually. Furthermore, when side effects are consistent and intolerable after weeks/months of titration, a lower dose or a combination of antidiabetic therapies should be implemented, avoiding treatment interruption. The effort to produce increasingly powerful molecules with fewer side effects is the driving force behind the pharmaceutical industry. The unimolecular dual agonism GLP-1RA plus glucagon receptor agonism (GRA) represents an updated pharmacological indication for controlling blood glucose levels in treating T2DM and its comorbidities, showing better effects with less adverse impact than mono GLP-1RA. There are currently different proposals in this way by different laboratories. Nevertheless, the experimental results are promising and show that soon, we will have the contribution of new drugs for the treatment of T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Spezani
- Laboratory of Morphometry, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases, Biomedical Center, Institute of Biology, The University of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carlos Alberto Mandarim-de-Lacerda
- Laboratory of Morphometry, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases, Biomedical Center, Institute of Biology, The University of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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15
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Pickford P, Lucey M, Rujan RM, McGlone ER, Bitsi S, Ashford FB, Corrêa IR, Hodson DJ, Tomas A, Deganutti G, Reynolds CA, Owen BM, Tan TM, Minnion J, Jones B, Bloom SR. Partial agonism improves the anti-hyperglycaemic efficacy of an oxyntomodulin-derived GLP-1R/GCGR co-agonist. Mol Metab 2021; 51:101242. [PMID: 33933675 PMCID: PMC8163982 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2021.101242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Glucagon-like peptide-1 and glucagon receptor (GLP-1R/GCGR) co-agonism can maximise weight loss and improve glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes and obesity. In this study, we investigated the cellular and metabolic effects of modulating the balance between G protein and β-arrestin-2 recruitment at GLP-1R and GCGR using oxyntomodulin (OXM)-derived co-agonists. This strategy has been previously shown to improve the duration of action of GLP-1R mono-agonists by reducing target desensitisation and downregulation. METHODS Dipeptidyl dipeptidase-4 (DPP-4)-resistant OXM analogues were generated and assessed for a variety of cellular readouts. Molecular dynamic simulations were used to gain insights into the molecular interactions involved. In vivo studies were performed in mice to identify the effects on glucose homeostasis and weight loss. RESULTS Ligand-specific reductions in β-arrestin-2 recruitment were associated with slower GLP-1R internalisation and prolonged glucose-lowering action in vivo. The putative benefits of GCGR agonism were retained, with equivalent weight loss compared to the GLP-1R mono-agonist liraglutide despite a lesser degree of food intake suppression. The compounds tested showed only a minor degree of biased agonism between G protein and β-arrestin-2 recruitment at both receptors and were best classified as partial agonists for the two pathways measured. CONCLUSIONS Diminishing β-arrestin-2 recruitment may be an effective way to increase the therapeutic efficacy of GLP-1R/GCGR co-agonists. These benefits can be achieved by partial rather than biased agonism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phil Pickford
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Maria Lucey
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Roxana-Maria Rujan
- Centre for Sport, Exercise, and Life Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Alison Gingell Building, CV1 5FB, UK
| | - Emma Rose McGlone
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Stavroula Bitsi
- Section of Cell Biology and Functional Genomics, Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Fiona B Ashford
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR) and Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - David J Hodson
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR) and Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alejandra Tomas
- Section of Cell Biology and Functional Genomics, Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Giuseppe Deganutti
- Centre for Sport, Exercise, and Life Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Alison Gingell Building, CV1 5FB, UK
| | - Christopher A Reynolds
- Centre for Sport, Exercise, and Life Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Alison Gingell Building, CV1 5FB, UK; School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ, UK
| | - Bryn M Owen
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Tricia M Tan
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - James Minnion
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Ben Jones
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK.
| | - Stephen R Bloom
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
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16
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Zhao F, Zhang C, Zhou Q, Hang K, Zou X, Chen Y, Wu F, Rao Q, Dai A, Yin W, Shen DD, Zhang Y, Xia T, Stevens RC, Xu HE, Yang D, Zhao L, Wang MW. Structural insights into hormone recognition by the human glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor. eLife 2021; 10:e68719. [PMID: 34254582 PMCID: PMC8298097 DOI: 10.7554/elife.68719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) is a peptide hormone that exerts crucial metabolic functions by binding and activating its cognate receptor, GIPR. As an important therapeutic target, GIPR has been subjected to intensive structural studies without success. Here, we report the cryo-EM structure of the human GIPR in complex with GIP and a Gs heterotrimer at a global resolution of 2.9 Å. GIP adopts a single straight helix with its N terminus dipped into the receptor transmembrane domain (TMD), while the C terminus is closely associated with the extracellular domain and extracellular loop 1. GIPR employs conserved residues in the lower half of the TMD pocket to recognize the common segments shared by GIP homologous peptides, while uses non-conserved residues in the upper half of the TMD pocket to interact with residues specific for GIP. These results provide a structural framework of hormone recognition and GIPR activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenghui Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Chao Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Qingtong Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Kaini Hang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xinyu Zou
- School of Artificial Intelligence and Automation, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Yan Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Fan Wu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Qidi Rao
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Antao Dai
- The National Center for Drug Screening, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Wanchao Yin
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Dan-Dan Shen
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Tian Xia
- School of Artificial Intelligence and Automation, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Raymond C Stevens
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - H Eric Xu
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Dehua Yang
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- The National Center for Drug Screening, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Lihua Zhao
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Ming-Wei Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- The National Center for Drug Screening, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
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17
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Lee SP, Qi J, Xu G, Rankin MM, Littrell J, Xu JZ, Bakaj I, Pocai A. GRK Inhibition Potentiates Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Action. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:652628. [PMID: 34054727 PMCID: PMC8160450 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.652628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) is a G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) whose activation results in suppression of food intake and improvement of glucose metabolism. Several receptor interacting proteins regulate the signaling of GLP-1R such as G protein-coupled receptor kinases (GRK) and β-arrestins. Here we evaluated the physiological and pharmacological impact of GRK inhibition on GLP-1R activity leveraging small molecule inhibitors of GRK2 and GRK3. We demonstrated that inhibition of GRK: i) inhibited GLP-1-mediated β-arrestin recruitment, ii) enhanced GLP-1-induced insulin secretion in isolated islets and iii) has additive effect with dipeptidyl peptidase 4 in mediating suppression of glucose excursion in mice. These findings highlight the importance of GRK to modulate GLP-1R function in vitro and in vivo. GRK inhibition is a potential therapeutic approach to enhance endogenous and pharmacologically stimulated GLP-1R signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seunghun P. Lee
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease Research, Janssen Research & Development, Spring House, PA, United States
| | - Jenson Qi
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease Research, Janssen Research & Development, Spring House, PA, United States
| | - Guozhang Xu
- Discovery Sciences, Janssen Research & Development, Spring House, PA, United States
| | - Matthew M. Rankin
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease Research, Janssen Research & Development, Spring House, PA, United States
| | - James Littrell
- Discovery Sciences, Janssen Research & Development, Spring House, PA, United States
| | - June Zhi Xu
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease Research, Janssen Research & Development, Spring House, PA, United States
| | - Ivona Bakaj
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease Research, Janssen Research & Development, Spring House, PA, United States
| | - Alessandro Pocai
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease Research, Janssen Research & Development, Spring House, PA, United States
- *Correspondence: Alessandro Pocai,
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18
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Jones B, McGlone ER, Fang Z, Pickford P, Corrêa IR, Oishi A, Jockers R, Inoue A, Kumar S, Görlitz F, Dunsby C, French PMW, Rutter GA, Tan T, Tomas A, Bloom SR. Genetic and biased agonist-mediated reductions in β-arrestin recruitment prolong cAMP signaling at glucagon family receptors. J Biol Chem 2020; 296:100133. [PMID: 33268378 PMCID: PMC7948418 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.016334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Receptors for the peptide hormones glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1R), glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIPR), and glucagon (GCGR) are important regulators of insulin secretion and energy metabolism. GLP-1R agonists have been successfully deployed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, but it has been suggested that their efficacy is limited by target receptor desensitization and downregulation due to recruitment of β-arrestins. Indeed, recently described GLP-1R agonists with reduced β-arrestin-2 recruitment have delivered promising results in preclinical and clinical studies. We therefore aimed to determine if the same phenomenon could apply to the closely related GIPR and GCGR. In HEK293 cells depleted of both β-arrestin isoforms the duration of G protein–dependent cAMP/PKA signaling was increased in response to the endogenous ligand for each receptor. Moreover, in wildtype cells, “biased” GLP-1, GCG, and GIP analogs with selective reductions in β-arrestin-2 recruitment led to reduced receptor endocytosis and increased insulin secretion over a prolonged stimulation period, although the latter effect was only seen at high agonist concentrations. Biased GCG analogs increased the duration of cAMP signaling, but this did not lead to increased glucose output from hepatocytes. Our study provides a rationale for the development of GLP-1R, GIPR, and GCGR agonists with reduced β-arrestin recruitment, but further work is needed to maximally exploit this strategy for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Jones
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Emma Rose McGlone
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Zijian Fang
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Phil Pickford
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Atsuro Oishi
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Ralf Jockers
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Asuka Inoue
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Sunil Kumar
- Department of Physics, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Frederik Görlitz
- Department of Physics, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Chris Dunsby
- Department of Physics, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul M W French
- Department of Physics, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Guy A Rutter
- Section of Cell Biology and Functional Genomics, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Tricia Tan
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alejandra Tomas
- Section of Cell Biology and Functional Genomics, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Stephen R Bloom
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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