Endoplasmic reticulum export of adrenergic and angiotensin II receptors is differentially regulated by Sar1 GTPase

Control of CCR5 Cell-Surface Targeting by the PRAF2 Gatekeeper

The cell-surface targeting of neo-synthesized G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) involves the recruitment of receptors into COPII vesicles budding at endoplasmic reticulum exit sites (ERESs). This process is regulated for some GPCRs by escort proteins, which facilitate their export, or by gatekeepers that retain the receptors in the ER. PRAF2, an ER-resident four trans- membrane domain protein with cytoplasmic extremities, operates as a gatekeeper for the GB1 protomer of the heterodimeric GABAB receptor, interacting with a tandem di-leucine/RXR retention motif in the carboxyterminal tail of GB1. PRAF2 was also reported to interact in a two-hybrid screen with a peptide corresponding to the carboxyterminal tail of the chemokine receptor CCR5 despite the absence of RXR motifs in its sequence. Using a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET)-based subcellular localization system, we found that PRAF2 inhibits, in a concentration-dependent manner, the plasma membrane export of CCR5. BRET-based proximity assays and Co-IP experiments demonstrated that PRAF2/CCR5 interaction does not require the presence of a receptor carboxyterminal tail and involves instead the transmembrane domains of both proteins. The mutation of the potential di-leucine/RXR motif contained in the third intracellular loop of CCR5 does not affect PRAF2-mediated retention. It instead impairs the cell-surface export of CCR5 by inhibiting CCR5's interaction with its private escort protein, CD4. PRAF2 and CD4 thus display opposite roles on the cell-surface export of CCR5, with PRAF2 inhibiting and CD4 promoting this process, likely operating at the level of CCR5 recruitment into COPII vesicles, which leave the ER.

Sequence-directed concentration of G protein-coupled receptors in COPII vesicles

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute the largest superfamily of plasma membrane signaling proteins. However, virtually nothing is known about their recruitment to COPII vesicles for forward delivery after synthesis in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Here, we demonstrate that some GPCRs are highly concentrated at ER exit sites (ERES) before COPII budding. Angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) and CXCR4 concentration are directed by a di-acidic motif and a 9-residue domain, respectively, and these motifs also control receptor ER-Golgi traffic. We further show that AT2R interacts with Sar1 GTPase and that distinct GPCRs have different ER-Golgi transport rates via COPII which is independent of their concentration at ERES. Collectively, these data demonstrate that GPCRs can be actively captured by COPII via specific motifs and direct interaction with COPII components that in turn affects their export dynamics, and provide important insights into COPII targeting and forward trafficking of nascent GPCRs.

Diacidic Motifs in the Carboxyl Terminus Are Required for ER Exit and Translocation to the Plasma Membrane of NKCC2

Mutations in the apical Na-K-2Cl co-transporter, NKCC2, cause type I Bartter syndrome (BS1), a life-threatening kidney disease. We have previously demonstrated that the BS1 variant Y998X, which deprives NKCC2 from its highly conserved dileucine-like motifs, compromises co-transporter surface delivery through ER retention mechanisms. However, whether these hydrophobic motifs are sufficient for anterograde trafficking of NKCC2 remains to be determined. Interestingly, sequence analysis of NKCC2 C-terminus revealed the presence of consensus di-acidic (D/E-X-D/E) motifs, ⁹⁴⁹EEE⁹⁵¹ and ¹⁰¹⁹DAELE¹⁰²³, located upstream and downstream of BS1 mutation Y998X, respectively. Di-acidic codes are involved in ER export of proteins through interaction with COPII budding machinery. Importantly, whereas mutating ⁹⁴⁹EEE⁹⁵¹ motif to ⁹⁴⁹AEA⁹⁵¹ had no effect on NKCC2 processing, mutating ¹⁰¹⁹DAE¹⁰²¹ to ¹⁰¹⁹AAA¹⁰²¹ heavily impaired complex-glycosylation and cell surface expression of the cotransporter in HEK293 and OKP cells. Most importantly, triple mutation of D, E and E residues of ¹⁰¹⁹DAELE¹⁰²³ to ¹⁰¹⁹AAALA¹⁰²³ almost completely abolished NKCC2 complex-glycosylation, suggesting that this mutant failed to exit the ER. Cycloheximide chase analysis demonstrated that the absence of the terminally glycosylated form of ¹⁰¹⁹AAALA¹⁰²³ was caused by defects in NKCC2 maturation. Accordingly, co-immunolocalization experiments revealed that ¹⁰¹⁹AAALA¹⁰²³ was trapped in the ER. Finally, overexpression of a dominant negative mutant of Sar1-GTPase abolished NKCC2 maturation and cell surface expression, clearly indicating that NKCC2 export from the ER is COPII-dependent. Hence, our data indicate that in addition to the di-leucine like motifs, NKCC2 uses di-acidic exit codes for export from the ER through the COPII-dependent pathway. We propose that any naturally occurring mutation of NKCC2 interfering with this pathway could form the molecular basis of BS1.

Targeting trafficking as a therapeutic avenue for misfolded GPCRs leading to endocrine diseases

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are plasma membrane proteins associated with an array of functions. Mutations in these receptors lead to a number of genetic diseases, including diseases involving the endocrine system. A particular subset of loss-of-function mutant GPCRs are misfolded receptors unable to traffic to their site of function (i.e. the cell surface plasma membrane). Endocrine disorders in humans caused by GPCR misfolding include, among others, hypo- and hyper-gonadotropic hypogonadism, morbid obesity, familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia and neonatal severe hyperparathyroidism, X-linked nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, congenital hypothyroidism, and familial glucocorticoid resistance. Several in vitro and in vivo experimental approaches have been employed to restore function of some misfolded GPCRs linked to endocrine disfunction. The most promising approach is by employing pharmacological chaperones or pharmacoperones, which assist abnormally and incompletely folded proteins to refold correctly and adopt a more stable configuration to pass the scrutiny of the cell's quality control system, thereby correcting misrouting. This review covers the most important aspects that regulate folding and traffic of newly synthesized proteins, as well as the experimental approaches targeted to overcome protein misfolding, with special focus on GPCRs involved in endocrine diseases.

Rab43 GTPase directs postsynaptic trafficking and neuron-specific sorting of G protein-coupled receptors

G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs) are important modulators of synaptic functions. A fundamental but poorly addressed question in neurobiology is how targeted GPCR trafficking is achieved. Rab GTPases are the master regulators of vesicle-mediated membrane trafficking, but their functions in the synaptic presentation of newly synthesized GPCRs are virtually unknown. Here, we investigate the role of Rab43, via dominant-negative inhibition and CRISPR–Cas9–mediated KO, in the export trafficking of α₂-adrenergic receptor (α₂-AR) and muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR) in primary neurons and cells. We demonstrate that Rab43 differentially regulates the overall surface expression of endogenous α₂-AR and mAChR, as well as their signaling, in primary neurons. In parallel, Rab43 exerts distinct effects on the dendritic and postsynaptic transport of specific α_2B-AR and M3 mAChR subtypes. More interestingly, the selective actions of Rab43 toward α_2B-AR and M3 mAChR are neuronal cell specific and dictated by direct interaction. These data reveal novel, neuron-specific functions for Rab43 in the dendritic and postsynaptic targeting and sorting of GPCRs and imply multiple forward delivery routes for different GPCRs in neurons. Overall, this study provides important insights into regulatory mechanisms of GPCR anterograde traffic to the functional destination in neurons.

Quantification of The Surface Expression of G Protein-coupled Receptors Using Intact Live-cell Radioligand Binding Assays

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the most structurally diverse family of signaling proteins and regulate a variety of cell function. For most GPCRs, the cell surface is their functional destination where they are able to respond a wide range of extracellular stimuli, leading to the activation of intracellular signal transduction cascades. Thus, the quantity of receptor expression at the cell surface is a crucial factor regulating the functionality of the receptors. Over the past decades, many methods have been developed to measure the cell surface expression of GPCRs. Here, we describe an intact live-cell radioligand binding assay to quantify the surface expression of GPCRs at the endogenous levels or after overexpression. In this assay, cell cultures will be incubated with specific cell-nonpermeable radioligands which selectively and stoichiometrically bind to individual GPCRs and the receptor numbers at the cell surface are quantified by the radioactivity of receptor-bound ligands. This method is highly specific for measuring the functional GPCRs at the surface of intact live cells and is particularly useful for endogenous, low-abundant GPCRs.

Mechanisms of the anterograde trafficking of GPCRs: Regulation of AT1R transport by interacting proteins and motifs

Anterograde cell surface transport of nascent G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) en route from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) through the Golgi apparatus represents a crucial checkpoint to control the amount of the receptors at the functional destination and the strength of receptor activation-elicited cellular responses. However, as compared with extensively studied internalization and recycling processes, the molecular mechanisms of cell surface trafficking of GPCRs are relatively less defined. Here, we will review the current advances in understanding the ER-Golgi-cell surface transport of GPCRs and use angiotensin II type 1 receptor as a representative GPCR to discuss emerging roles of receptor-interacting proteins and specific motifs embedded within the receptors in controlling the forward traffic of GPCRs along the biosynthetic pathway.

A Wntless-SEC12 complex on the ER membrane regulates early Wnt secretory vesicle assembly and mature ligand export

Wntless (Wls) transports Wnt molecules for secretion; however, the cellular mechanism underlying the initial assembly of Wnt secretory vesicles is still not fully defined. Here, we performed proteomic and mutagenic analyses of mammalian Wls, and report a mechanism for formation of early Wnt secretory vesicles on ER membrane. Wls forms a complex with SEC12 (also known as PREB), an ER membrane-localized guanine nucleotide-exchange factor (GEF) activator of the SAR1 (the SAR1A isoform) small GTPase. Compared to palmitoylation-deficient Wnt molecules, binding of mature Wnt to Wls increases Wls-SEC12 interaction and promotes association of Wls with SAR1, the key activator of the COPII machinery. Incorporation of Wls into this exporting ER compartment is affected by Wnt ligand binding and SEC12 binding to Wls, as well as the structural integrity and, potentially, the folding of the cytosolic tail of Wls. In contrast, Wls-SEC12 binding is stable, with the interacting interface biochemically mapped to cytosolic segments of individual proteins. Mutant Wls that fails to communicate with the COPII machinery cannot effectively support Wnt secretion. These data suggest that formation of early Wnt secretory vesicles is carefully regulated to ensure proper export of functional ligands.

Effect of Coenzyme Q10 on Proteomic Profile of Rat Brain Amygdala during Acute Metabolic Stress

Differences in the proteomic profiles of the brain amygdala in rats with different prognostic resistance to stress were found on the model of metabolic stress. Differential expression of tropomodulin-2, GTP-binding protein SAR1, peroxiredoxin-2, calcineurin B homologous protein 1, Ras-related protein Rab-14, glutathione S-transferase omega-1, Tcrb protein, and NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] iron-sulfur protein 8 (mitochondrial) was shown to depend on the behavioral pattern of animals and stage of the study. Specific features were observed in the involvement of the amygdala in the stress response of specimens with various behavioral characteristics.

A single mutation in helix 8 enhances the angiotensin II type 1a receptor transport and signaling

The amphipathic helix 8 in the membrane-proximal C-terminus is a structurally conserved feature of class A seven transmembrane-spanning G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Mutations of this helical motif often cause receptor misfolding, defective cell surface transport and dysfunction. Surprisingly, we demonstrated here that a single point mutation at Lys308 in helix 8 markedly enhanced the steady-state surface density of the angiotensin II type 1a receptor (AT1aR). Consistent with the enhanced cell surface expression, Lys308 mutation significantly augmented AT1aR-mediated mitogen-activated protein kinase ERK1/2 activation, inositol phosphate production, and vascular smooth muscle cell migration. This mutation also increased the overall expression of AT1aR without altering receptor degradation. More interestingly, Lys308 mutation abolished AT1aR interaction with β-COP, a component of COPI transport vesicles, and impaired AT1aR responsiveness to the inhibition of Rab6 GTPase involved in the Golgi-to-ER retrograde pathway. Furthermore, these functions of Lys308 were largely dependent on its positively charged property. These data reveal previously unappreciated functions of helix 8 and novel mechanisms governing the cell surface transport and function of AT1aR.

Intracellular Trafficking of Neuropeptide Y Receptors

The multireceptor multiligand system of neuropeptide Y receptors and their ligands is involved in the regulation of a multitude of physiological and pathophysiological processes. Specific expression patterns, ligand-binding modes, and signaling properties contribute to the complex network regulating distinct cellular responses. Intracellular trafficking processes are important key steps that are regulated in context with accessory proteins. These proteins exert their influence by interacting directly or indirectly with the receptors, causing modification of the receptors, or operating as scaffolds for the assembly of larger signaling complexes. On the intracellular receptor faces, sequence-specific motifs have been identified that play an important role in this process. Interestingly, it is also possible to influence the receptor internalization by modification of the peptide ligand.

Regulation of α2B-Adrenerigc Receptor Export Trafficking by Specific Motifs

Intracellular trafficking and precise targeting to specific locations of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) control the physiological functions of the receptors. Compared to the extensive efforts dedicated to understanding the events involved in the endocytic and recycling pathways, the molecular mechanisms underlying the transport of the GPCR superfamily from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) through the Golgi to the plasma membrane are relatively less well defined. Over the past years, we have used α(2B)-adrenergic receptor (α(2B)-AR) as a model to define the factors that control GPCR export trafficking. In this chapter, we will review specific motifs identified to mediate the export of nascent α(2B)-AR from the ER and the Golgi and discuss the possible underlying mechanisms. As these motifs are highly conserved among GPCRs, they may provide common mechanisms for export trafficking of these receptors.

Chaperoning G protein-coupled receptors: from cell biology to therapeutics

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are membrane proteins that traverse the plasma membrane seven times (hence, are also called 7TM receptors). The polytopic structure of GPCRs makes the folding of GPCRs difficult and complex. Indeed, many wild-type GPCRs are not folded optimally, and defects in folding are the most common cause of genetic diseases due to GPCR mutations. Both general and receptor-specific molecular chaperones aid the folding of GPCRs. Chemical chaperones have been shown to be able to correct the misfolding in mutant GPCRs, proving to be important tools for studying the structure-function relationship of GPCRs. However, their potential therapeutic value is very limited. Pharmacological chaperones (pharmacoperones) are potentially important novel therapeutics for treating genetic diseases caused by mutations in GPCR genes that resulted in misfolded mutant proteins. Pharmacoperones also increase cell surface expression of wild-type GPCRs; therefore, they could be used to treat diseases that do not harbor mutations in GPCRs. Recent studies have shown that indeed pharmacoperones work in both experimental animals and patients. High-throughput assays have been developed to identify new pharmacoperones that could be used as therapeutics for a number of endocrine and other genetic diseases.

Molecular regulation of lysophosphatidic acid receptor 1 trafficking to the cell surface

The lysophosphatidic acid receptor 1 (LPA1), a G-protein coupled receptor, regulates cell proliferation, migration, and cytokine release. Here, we investigate the molecular signature of LPA1 trafficking to the cell surface. The overexpressed LPA1 with a C-terminal V5 tag (LPA1-V5) is majorly expressed on the cell surface, while two deletion mutants (C320 and ∆84-87) failed to be trafficked to the cell surface. Further, site-directed mutagenesis analysis of the LPA1 revealed that Ile325, Tyr85, and Leu87 within these two fragments regulate LPA1 maturation and trafficking to the cell surface. Over-expression of Sar1, a component of coat protein complex II (COPII), enhances glycosylation of LPA1 wild type, but not these mutants. The mutants of LPA1 are majorly localized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and exhibit a higher binding affinity to heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), when compared to the LPA1 wild type. Further, we found that all these mutants failed to increase phosphorylation of Erk, and the cytokine release in response to LPA treatment. These results suggest that Ile325, Tyr85, and Leu87 within LPA1 are essential for LPA1 protein properly folding in the ER.

CNIH4 interacts with newly synthesized GPCR and controls their export from the endoplasmic reticulum

The molecular mechanisms regulating G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) trafficking from their site of synthesis in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to their site of function (the cell surface) remain poorly characterized. Using a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer-based proteomic screen, we identified a novel GPCR-interacting protein; the human cornichon homologue 4 (CNIH4). This previously uncharacterized protein is localized in the early secretory pathway where it interacts with members of the 3 family of GPCRs. Both overexpression and knockdown expression of CNIH4 caused the intracellular retention of GPCRs, indicating that this ER-resident protein plays an important role in GPCR export. Overexpression of CNIH4 at low levels rescued the maturation and cell surface expression of an intracellularly retained mutant form of the β2-adrenergic receptor, further demonstrating a positive role of CNIH4 in GPCR trafficking. Taken with the co-immunoprecipitation of CNIH4 with Sec23 and Sec24, components of the COPII coat complex responsible for ER export, these data suggest that CNIH4 acts as a cargo-sorting receptor, recruiting GPCRs into COPII vesicles.

Putative p24 complexes in Arabidopsis contain members of the delta and beta subfamilies and cycle in the early secretory pathway

p24 proteins are a family of type I membrane proteins localized to compartments of the early secretory pathway and to coat protein I (COPI)- and COPII-coated vesicles. They can be classified, by sequence homology, into four subfamilies, named p24α, p24β, p24γ, and p24δ. In contrast to animals and fungi, plants contain only members of the p24β and p24δ subfamilies, the latter probably including two different subclasses. It has previously been shown that transiently expressed red fluorescent protein (RFP)-p24δ5 (p24δ1 subclass) localizes to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) at steady state as a consequence of highly efficient COPI-based recycling from the Golgi apparatus. It is now shown that transiently expressed RFP-p24δ9 (p24δ2 subclass) also localizes to the ER. In contrast, transiently expressed green fluorescent protein (GFP)-p24β3 mainly localizes to the Golgi apparatus (as p24β2) and exits the ER in a COPII-dependent manner. Immunogold electron microscopy in Arabidopsis root tip cells using specific antibodies shows that endogenous p24δ9 localizes mainly to the ER but also partially to the cis-Golgi. In contrast, endogenous p24β3 mainly localizes to the Golgi apparatus. By a combination of experiments using transient expression, knock-out mutants, and co-immunoprecipitation, it is proposed that Arabidopsis p24 proteins form different heteromeric complexes (including members of the β and δ subfamilies) which are important for their stability and their coupled trafficking at the ER-Golgi interface. Evidence is also provided for a role for p24δ5 in retrograde Golgi-ER transport of the KDEL-receptor ERD2.

The calcium sensing receptor life cycle: trafficking, cell surface expression, and degradation

The calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) must function in the chronic presence of agonist, and recent studies suggest that its ability to signal under such conditions depends upon the unique mechanism(s) regulating its cellular trafficking. This chapter will highlight the evidence supporting an intracellular endoplasmic reticulum-localized pool of CaSR that can be mobilized to the plasma membrane by CaSR signaling, leading to agonist-driven insertional signaling (ADIS). I summarize evidence for the role of small GTP binding proteins (Rabs, Sar1 and ARFs), cargo receptors or chaperones (p24A, RAMPs) and interacting proteins (14-3-3 proteins, calmodulin) in anterograde trafficking of CaSR, and discuss the potential signaling specializations arising from CaSR interactions with caveolins or Filamin A/Rho. Finally, I summarize current knowledge about CaSR endocytosis and degradation by both the proteasome and lysosome, and highlight recent studies indicating that defective trafficking of CaSR or interacting protein mutants contributes to pathology in disorders of calcium homeostasis.

The angiotensin II type 1 receptor C-terminal Lys residues interact with tubulin and modulate receptor export trafficking

The physiological and pathological functions of angiotensin II are largely mediated through activating the cell surface angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the transport of newly synthesized AT1R from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the cell surface remain poorly defined. Here we demonstrated that the C-terminus (CT) of AT1R directly and strongly bound to tubulin and the binding domains were mapped to two consecutive Lys residues at positions 310 and 311 in the CT membrane-proximal region of AT1R and the acidic CT of tubulin, suggestive of essentially ionic interactions between AT1R and tubulin. Furthermore, mutation to disrupt tubulin binding dramatically inhibited the cell surface expression of AT1R, arrested AT1R in the ER, and attenuated AT1R-mediated signaling measured as ERK1/2 activation. These data demonstrate for the first time that specific Lys residues in the CT juxtamembrane region regulate the processing of AT1R through interacting with tubulin. These data also suggest an important role of the microtubule network in the cell surface transport of AT1R.

The anterograde transport of the human neuropeptide Y2 receptor is regulated by a subtype specific mechanism mediated by the C-terminus

The export of newly synthesized proteins, including G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR), from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and further transport to the plasma membrane is a tightly regulated process. ER export and subsequent cell surface targeting of GPCR is initially mediated through COPII-coated vesicles. It is governed by specific amino acid sequences located in extracellular as well as intracellular receptor domains, for example in the C-terminus (CT) of the receptor. Herein, we determined the role of the CT in the anterograde transport of the human neuropeptide Y receptor (hYR) type 2. We identified a short sequence motif in the membrane proximal CT: Y(x)(3)F(x)(3)F in the region of the putative 8th helix has a critical functional relevance for the anterograde transport of hY(2)R, since its deletion leads to accumulation of the receptor in the ER. It is sequence and position specific. Furthermore we identified a distinct role of C-terminal sequences in hY(1)R, hY(2)R, hY(4)R and hY(5)R. Regulation of hY(5)R export is regulated by a different mechanism as compared to hY(2)R. Different sequence elements with respect to function and localization are involved as demonstrated by the construction of a hY(2)/hY(5) receptor chimera and a noneffective deletion in the region of helix eight in the hY(5)R. In contrast to hY(2)R, deletion of the corresponding helical segment F(x)(3)L(x)(3)F has no influence on anterograde transport of hY(1)R, whereas deletion of F(x)(3)I(x)(3)V in hY(4)R restrains the receptor to the Golgi apparatus. Interestingly this pattern is not mirrored by repression of COPII vesicle transport by Sar1[H79G] overexpression. Whereas the 8th helix is involved before or at the level of Sar1 dependent export pathways in the ER for the hY(2)R, in hY(4)R helix eight is involved at later stages of anterograde transport.

Small GTPase regulation of GPCR anterograde trafficking

The physiological functions of heterotrimeric G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are dictated by their intracellular trafficking and precise targeting to the functional destinations. Over the past decades, most studies on the trafficking of GPCRs have focused on the events involved in endocytosis and recycling. By contrast, the molecular mechanisms underlying anterograde transport of newly synthesized GPCRs from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the cell surface have only now begun to be revealed. In this review we discuss current advances in understanding the role of Ras-like GTPases, specifically the Rab and Sar1/ARF subfamilies, in regulating cell-surface transport of GPCRs en route from the ER and the Golgi.

Di-acidic motifs in the membrane-distal C termini modulate the transport of angiotensin II receptors from the endoplasmic reticulum to the cell surface

The molecular mechanisms underlying the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) export and cell surface transport of nascent G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have just begun to be revealed and previous studies have shown that hydrophobic motifs in the putative amphipathic 8(th) α-helical region within the membrane-proximal C termini play an important role. In this study, we demonstrate that di-acidic motifs in the membrane-distal, nonstructural C-terminal portions are required for the exit from the ER and transport to the plasma membrane of angiotensin II receptors, but not adrenergic receptors. More interestingly, distinct di-acidic motifs dictate optimal export trafficking of different angiotensin II receptors and export ability of each acidic residue in the di-acidic motifs cannot be fully substituted by other acidic residue. Moreover, the function of the di-acidic motifs is likely mediated through facilitating the recruitment of the receptors onto the ER-derived COPII transport vesicles. Therefore, the di-acidic motifs located in the membrane-distal C termini may represent the first linear motifs which recruit selective GPCRs onto the COPII vesicles to control their export from the ER.

Alpha2B-adrenergic receptor interaction with tubulin controls its transport from the endoplasmic reticulum to the cell surface

It is well recognized that the C terminus (CT) plays a crucial role in modulating G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) transport from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the cell surface. However the molecular mechanisms that govern CT-dependent ER export remain elusive. To address this issue, we used α(2B)-adrenergic receptor (α(2B)-AR) as a model GPCR to search for proteins interacting with the CT. By using peptide-conjugated affinity matrix combined with proteomics and glutathione S-transferase fusion protein pull-down assays, we identified tubulin directly interacting with the α(2B)-AR CT. The interaction domains were mapped to the acidic CT of tubulin and the basic Arg residues in the α(2B)-AR CT, particularly Arg-437, Arg-441, and Arg-446. More importantly, mutation of these Arg residues to disrupt tubulin interaction markedly inhibited α(2B)-AR transport to the cell surface and strongly arrested the receptor in the ER. These data provide the first evidence indicating that the α(2B)-AR C-terminal Arg cluster mediates its association with tubulin to coordinate its ER-to-cell surface traffic and suggest a novel mechanism of GPCR export through physical contact with microtubules.

The cannabinoid type-1 receptor carboxyl-terminus, more than just a tail

The cannabinoid type-1 (CB(1)) receptor is a G protein-coupled receptor that binds the main active ingredient of marijuana, Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol, and has been implicated in several disease states, including drug addiction, anxiety, depression, obesity, and chronic pain. In the two decades since the discovery of CB(1), studies at the molecular level have centered on the transmembrane core. This interest has now expanded as we discover that other regions of CB(1), including the CB(1) carboxyl-terminus, have critical structures that are important for CB(1) activity and regulation. Following the recent description of the three dimensional structure of the full-length CB(1) carboxyl-terminal tail [Biopolymers (2009) vol. 91, pp. 565-573], several residues and structural motifs including two α-helices (termed H8 and H9) have been postulated to interact with common G protein-coupled receptor accessory proteins, such as G-proteins and β-arrestins. This discourse will focus on the CB(1) carboxyl-terminus; our current understanding of the structural features of this region, evidence for its interaction with proteins, and the impact of structure on the binding and regulatory function of CB(1) accessory proteins. The involvement of the carboxyl-terminus in the receptor life cycle including activation, desensitization, and internalization will be highlighted.

Sar1-dependent trafficking of the human calcium receptor to the cell surface

The molecular mechanisms underlying the exit from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) for cell surface trafficking of the human calcium receptor (hCaR) remain poorly understood. We investigated the role of the Sar1 small GTP-binding protein in cell surface transport of the hCaR. Disruptions of endogenous Sar1 function with the constitutively active Sar1H79G mutant or depletion using small interfering RNA, attenuates cell surface expression of the hCaR. Mutation of several putative di-acidic ER export motifs in the carboxyl-tail of the receptor revealed no apparent defect in cell surface expression. Truncated mutants lacking most of the carboxyl-terminal sequences or all intracellular domains also showed no impairment in cell surface expression at steady state. A truncated receptor containing only the large amino-terminal extracellular ligand-binding domain (ECD) is secreted into the culture medium and Sar1H79G inhibits this secretion. ECD receptor variants with the cysteines essential for intermolecular disulfide-linked dimerization mutated to serine or four of the asparagine sites for N-glycosylation mutated to alanine also disrupt secretion, indicating proper ECD conformation is critical for forward transport of this receptor.

ADP-ribosylation factors modulate the cell surface transport of G protein-coupled receptors

ADP-ribosylation factors (ARFs) regulate vesicular traffic through recruiting coat proteins. However, their functions in the anterograde transport of nascent G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) from the endoplasmic reticulum to the plasma membrane remain poorly explored. Here we show that treatment with brefeldin A, an inhibitor of guanine nucleotide exchange on ARFs, markedly attenuated the cell surface numbers of alpha(2B)-adrenergic receptor (AR), beta(2)-AR, angiotensin II type 1 receptor, and chemokine (CXC motif) receptor 4. Functional inhibition of individual ARF GTPases by transient expression of the GDP-bound, GTP-bound, and guanine nucleotide-deficient mutants showed that the five human ARFs differentially modulated receptor cell surface expression and that the ARF1 mutants produced the most profound inhibitory effect. Furthermore, expression of the ARF1 GTPase-activating protein (GAP) ARFGAP1 significantly blocked receptor transport. Interestingly, the GDP- and GTP-bound ARF1 mutants arrested the receptors in distinct intracellular compartments. Consistent with the reduced receptor cell surface expression, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 activation by receptor agonists was significantly attenuated by the GDP-bound mutant ARF1T31N. Moreover, coimmunoprecipitation showed that alpha(2B)-AR associated with ARF1 and glutathione transferase pull-down assay indicated that the alpha(2B)-AR C terminus directly interacted with ARF1. These data show that ARF1 GTPase is involved in the regulation of cell surface expression of GPCRs at multiple transport steps.

Pannexin1 and pannexin3 delivery, cell surface dynamics, and cytoskeletal interactions

Pannexins (Panx) are a class of integral membrane proteins that have been proposed to exhibit characteristics similar to those of connexin family members. In this study, we utilized Cx43-positive BICR-M1R(k) cells to stably express Panx1, Panx3, or Panx1-green fluorescent protein (GFP) to assess their trafficking, cell surface dynamics, and interplay with the cytoskeletal network. Expression of a Sar1 dominant negative mutant revealed that endoplasmic reticulum to Golgi transport of Panx1 and Panx3 was mediated via COPII-dependent vesicles. Distinct from Cx43-GFP, fluorescence recovery after photobleaching studies revealed that both Panx1-GFP and Panx3-GFP remained highly mobile at the cell surface. Unlike Cx43, Panx1-GFP exhibited no detectable interrelationship with microtubules. Conversely, cytochalasin B-induced disruption of microfilaments caused a severe loss of cell surface Panx1-GFP, a reduction in the recoverable fraction of Panx1-GFP that remained at the cell surface, and a decrease in Panx1-GFP vesicular transport. Furthermore, co-immunoprecipitation and co-sedimentation assays revealed actin as a novel binding partner of Panx1. Collectively, we conclude that although Panx1 and Panx3 share a common endoplasmic reticulum to Golgi secretory pathway to Cx43, their ultimate cell surface residency appears to be independent of cell contacts and the need for intact microtubules. Importantly, Panx1 has an interaction with actin microfilaments that regulates its cell surface localization and mobility.

Rab1 GTPase and dimerization in the cell surface expression of angiotensin II type 2 receptor

The physiological function of angiotensin II (Ang II) is mediated through the Ang II type 1 (AT1R) and type 2 (AT2R) receptors. Our previous studies have demonstrated that cell surface targeting of AT1R is regulated by Rab and Sar1 GTPases and the F(x)(6)LL motif in the membrane-proximal C terminus. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the export of nascent AT2R remain poorly defined. In this report, we determined the role of Rab1 GTPase, which specifically controls protein transport from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the Golgi, and receptor dimerization in the biosynthesis of AT2R. Cell surface expression of AT2R was augmented by transient expression of Rab1 and attenuated by dominant-negative Rab1 mutants and small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of Rab1. Consistently, AT2R inhibition of epidermal growth factor-activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 was significantly reduced by the Rab1 mutants, indicating that endogenous Rab1 modulates the cell surface targeting and signaling of AT2R. It is of interest to note that Rab1 augmented the overall expression of AT2R and its mRNA, whereas the Rab1 mutants attenuated the total AT2R expression and enhanced ubiquitin-dependent AT2R degradation. Furthermore, our previously characterized ER export-deficient AT1R mutant in which the F(x)(6)LL motif was mutated formed both homodimers and heterodimers with AT2R. Dimerization of the AT1R mutant with AT2R blocked AT2R trafficking to the cell surface, suggesting constitutive dimerization of both receptors in the ER and an important role of dimerization in ER export of the receptors. These data demonstrate for the first time that Rab1 GTPase and dimerization modulate export traffic from the ER to the cell surface of newly synthesized AT2R.

A single conserved leucine residue on the first intracellular loop regulates ER export of G protein-coupled receptors

The intrinsic structural determinants for export trafficking of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have been mainly identified in the termini of the receptors. In this report, we determined the role of the first intracellular loop (ICL1) in the transport from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the cell surface of GPCRs. The alpha(2B)-adrenergic receptor (AR) mutant lacking the ICL1 is unable to traffic to the cell surface and to initiate signaling measured as ERK1/2 activation. Mutagenesis studies identify a single Leu48 residue in the ICL1 modulates alpha(2B)-AR export from the ER. The ER export function of the Leu48 residue can be substituted by Phe, but not Ile, Val, Tyr and Trp, and is unlikely involved in correct folding or dimerization of alpha(2B)-AR in the ER. Importantly, the isolated Leu residue is remarkably conserved in the center of the ICL1s among the family A GPCRs and is also required for the export to the cell surface of beta(2)-AR, alpha(1B)-AR and angiotensin II type 1 receptor. These data indicate a crucial role for a single Leu residue within the ICL1 in ER export of GPCRs.

Anterograde trafficking of G protein-coupled receptors: function of the C-terminal F(X)6LL motif in export from the endoplasmic reticulum

We have reported previously that the F(X)(6)LL motif in the C termini is essential for export of alpha(2B)-adrenergic (alpha(2B)-AR) and angiotensin II type 1 receptors (AT1Rs) from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Here, we further demonstrate that mutation of the F(X)(6)LL motif similarly abolished the cell-surface expression of alpha(2B)-AR, AT1R, alpha(1B)-AR, and beta(2)-AR, suggesting that the F(X)(6)LL motif plays a general role in ER export of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Mutation of Phe to Val, Leu, Trp, and Tyr, and mutation of LL to FF and VV, markedly inhibited alpha(2B)-AR transport, indicating that the F(X)(6)LL function cannot be fully substituted by other hydrophobic residues. The structural analysis revealed that the Phe residue in the F(X)(6)LL motif is buried in the transmembrane domains and possibly interacts with Ile58 in beta(2)-AR and Val42 in alpha(2B)-AR, whereas the LL motif is exposed to the cytosolic space. Indeed, mutation of Ile58 in beta(2)-AR and Val42 in alpha(2B)-AR markedly disrupted cell surface transport of the receptors. It is noteworthy that the Val and Ile residues are highly conserved among the GPCRs carrying the F(X)(6)LL motif. Furthermore, the Phe mutant exhibited a stronger interaction with ER chaperones and was more potently rescued by physical and chemical treatments than the LL mutant. These data suggest that the Phe residue is probably involved in folding of alpha(2B)-AR and beta(2)-AR, possibly through interaction with other hydrophobic residues in neighboring domains. These data also provide the first evidence implying crucial roles of the C termini possibly through modulating multiple events in anterograde trafficking of GPCRs.