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Winter J, Meyer M, Berger I, Royer M, Bianchi M, Kuffner K, Peters S, Stang S, Langgartner D, Hartmann F, Schmidtner AK, Reber SO, Bosch OJ, Bludau A, Slattery DA, van den Burg EH, Jurek B, Neumann ID. Chronic oxytocin-driven alternative splicing of Crfr2α induces anxiety. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:4742-4755. [PMID: 34035479 PMCID: PMC10914602 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01141-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The neuropeptide oxytocin (OXT) has generated considerable interest as potential treatment for psychiatric disorders, including anxiety and autism spectrum disorders. However, the behavioral and molecular consequences associated with chronic OXT treatment and chronic receptor (OXTR) activation have scarcely been studied, despite the potential therapeutic long-term use of intranasal OXT. Here, we reveal that chronic OXT treatment over two weeks increased anxiety-like behavior in rats, with higher sensitivity in females, contrasting the well-known anxiolytic effect of acute OXT. The increase in anxiety was transient and waned 5 days after the infusion has ended. The behavioral effects of chronic OXT were paralleled by activation of an intracellular signaling pathway, which ultimately led to alternative splicing of hypothalamic corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 2α (Crfr2α), an important modulator of anxiety. In detail, chronic OXT shifted the splicing ratio from the anxiolytic membrane-bound (mCRFR2α) form of CRFR2α towards the soluble CRFR2α (sCRFR2α) form. Experimental induction of alternative splicing mimicked the anxiogenic effects of chronic OXT, while sCRFR2α-knock down reduced anxiety-related behavior of male rats. Furthermore, chronic OXT treatment triggered the release of sCRFR2α into the cerebrospinal fluid with sCRFR2α levels positively correlating with anxiety-like behavior. In summary, we revealed that the shifted splicing ratio towards expression of the anxiogenic sCRFR2α underlies the adverse effects of chronic OXT treatment on anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Winter
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Magdalena Meyer
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Ilona Berger
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Melanie Royer
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Marta Bianchi
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Kerstin Kuffner
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Peters
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Simone Stang
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Dominik Langgartner
- Laboratory for Molecular Psychosomatics, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Finn Hartmann
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Anna K Schmidtner
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stefan O Reber
- Laboratory for Molecular Psychosomatics, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Oliver J Bosch
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Anna Bludau
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - David A Slattery
- Laboratory of Translational Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Erwin H van den Burg
- Center for Psychiatric Neurosciences, University Hospital Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin Jurek
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Institute for Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Inga D Neumann
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
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Galimova E, Rätsep R, Traks T, Chernov A, Gaysina D, Kingo K, Kõks S. Polymorphisms in corticotrophin-releasing hormone-proopiomalanocortin (CRH-POMC) system genes: Neuroimmune contributions to psoriasis disease. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2023; 37:2028-2040. [PMID: 37319102 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.19257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Skin is a target organ and source of the corticotropin-releasing hormone-proopiomelanocortin (CRH-POMC) system, operating as a coordinator and executor of responses to stress. Environmental stress exacerbates and triggers inflammatory skin diseases through modifying the cellular components of the immune system supporting the importance of CRH-POMC system in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. The aim of this study was to analyse the association of CRH-POMC polymorphisms with psoriasis and evaluate transcript expression of lesional psoriatic and normal skin in RNA-seq data. METHODS Samples of 104 patients with psoriasis and 174 healthy controls were genotyped for 42 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of CRH-POMC using Applied Biosystems SNPlex™ method. The transcript quantification was performed using Salmon software v1.3.0. RESULTS This study demonstrated the associations between melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) polymorphisms rs2228479, rs3212369, dopachrome tautomerase (DCT) polymorphisms rs7987802, rs2031526, rs9524501 and psoriasis in the Tatar population. Very strong association was evident for the SNP rs7987802 in the DCT gene (pc = 5.95е-006) in psoriasis patients. Additionally, the haplotype analysis provided AT DCT (rs7992630 and rs7987802) and AGA MC1R (rs3212358, 2228479 and 885479) haplotypes significantly associated (pc ˂ 0.05) with psoriasis in the Tatar population, supporting the involvement of DCT and MC1R to the psoriasis susceptibility. Moreover, MC1R-203 and DCT-201 expression levels were decreased in psoriasis lesional skin compared with healthy control skin. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to identify genetic variants of the MC1R and DCT genes significantly associated with psoriasis in Tatar population. Our results support potential roles of CRH-POMC system genes and DCT in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvira Galimova
- Department of Physiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ranno Rätsep
- Department of Physiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Tanel Traks
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Alexandr Chernov
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Darya Gaysina
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Külli Kingo
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Sulev Kõks
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Sukhareva EV. The role of the corticotropin-releasing hormone and its receptors in the regulation of stress response. Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genet Selektsii 2021; 25:216-223. [PMID: 34901719 PMCID: PMC8627883 DOI: 10.18699/vj21.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress is an essential part of everyday life. The neuropeptide corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH, also
called CRF and corticoliberin) plays a key role in the integration of neuroendocrine, autonomic and behavioral
responses to stress. The activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis) by neurons of the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus (PVN), the primary site of synthesis CRH, triggers stress reactions. In addition to the
hypothalamus, CRH is widespread in extrahypothalamic brain structures, where it functions as a neuromodulator
for coordination and interaction between the humoral and behavioral aspects of a stress response. The axons of
neurons expressing CRH are directed to various structures of the brain, where the neuropeptide interacts with
specific receptors (CRHR1, CRHR2) and can affect various mediator systems that work together to transmit signals
to different brain regions to cause many reactions to stress. Moreover, the effect of stress on brain functions varies
from behavioral adaptation to increased survival and increased risk of developing mental disorders. Disturbances
of the CRH system regulation are directly related to such disorders: mental pathologies (depression, anxiety, addictions), deviations of neuroendocrinological functions, inflammation, as well as the onset and development of
neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, the role of CRH as a regulator of the neurons
structure in the areas of the developing and mature brain has been established. To date, studies have been conducted in which CRHR1 is a target for antidepressants, which are, in fact, antagonists of this receptor. In this regard,
the study of the participation of the CRH system and its receptors in negative effects on hormone-dependent
systems, as well as the possibility of preventing them, is a promising task of modern physiological genetics. In this
review, attention will be paid to the role of CRH in the regulation of response to stress, as well as to the involvement
of extrahypothalamic CRH in pathophysiology and the correction of mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- E V Sukhareva
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
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Kinlein SA, Karatsoreos IN. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis as a substrate for stress resilience: Interactions with the circadian clock. Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 56:100819. [PMID: 31863788 PMCID: PMC7643247 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.100819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Stress, primarily processed via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, engages biological pathways throughout the brain and body which promote adaptation and survival to changing environmental demands. Adaptation to environmental challenges is compromised when these pathways are no longer functioning optimally. The physiological and behavioral mechanisms through which HPA axis function influences stress adaptation and resilience are not fully elucidated. Our understanding of stress biology and disease must take into account the complex interactions between the endocrine system, neural circuits, and behavioral coping strategies. In addition, further consideration must be taken concerning influences of other aspects of physiology, including the circadian clock which is critical for regulation of daily changes in HPA activity. While adding a layer of complexity, it also offers targets for intervention. Understanding the role of HPA function in mediating these diverse biological responses will lead to important insights about how to bolster successful stress adaptation and promote stress resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott A Kinlein
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, United States
| | - Ilia N Karatsoreos
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, United States; Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States.
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Han R, Hu S, Qin W, Shi J, Hou Q, Wang X, Xu X, Zhang M, Zeng C, Liu Z, Bao H. C3a and suPAR drive versican V1 expression in tubular cells of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. JCI Insight 2019; 4:122912. [PMID: 30944246 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.122912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic tubulointerstitial injury impacts the prognosis of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). We found that the level of versican V1 was increased in tubular cells of FSGS patients. Tubular cell-derived versican V1 induced proliferation and collagen synthesis by activating the CD44/Smad3 pathway in fibroblasts. Both urine C3a and suPAR were increased and bound to the tubular cells in FSGS patients. C3a promoted the transcription of versican by activating the AKT/β-catenin pathway. C3aR knockout decreased the expression of versican in Adriamycin-treated (ADR-treated) mice. On the other hand, suPAR bound to integrin β6 and activated Rac1, which bound to SRp40 at the 5' end of exon 7 in versican pre-mRNA. This binding inhibited the 3'-end splicing of intron 6 and the base-pair interactions between intron 6 and intron 8, leading to the formation of versican V1. Cotreatment with ADR and suPAR specifically increased the level of versican V1 in tubulointerstitial tissues and caused more obvious interstitial fibrosis in mice than treatment with only ADR. Altogether, our results show that C3a and suPAR drive versican V1 expression in tubular cells by promoting transcription and splicing, respectively, and the increases in tubular cell-derived versican V1 induce interstitial fibrosis by activating fibroblasts in FSGS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runhong Han
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China.,National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Southeast University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Shuai Hu
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Weisong Qin
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jinsong Shi
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Qin Hou
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xia Wang
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaodong Xu
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Minchao Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Caihong Zeng
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhihong Liu
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China.,National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Southeast University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Hao Bao
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Dedic N, Chen A, Deussing JM. The CRF Family of Neuropeptides and their Receptors - Mediators of the Central Stress Response. Curr Mol Pharmacol 2018; 11:4-31. [PMID: 28260504 PMCID: PMC5930453 DOI: 10.2174/1874467210666170302104053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2015] [Revised: 11/26/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Dysregulated stress neurocircuits, caused by genetic and/or environmental changes, underlie the development of many neuropsychiatric disorders. Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is the major physiological activator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and conse-quently a primary regulator of the mammalian stress response. Together with its three family members, urocortins (UCNs) 1, 2, and 3, CRF integrates the neuroendocrine, autonomic, metabolic and behavioral responses to stress by activating its cognate receptors CRFR1 and CRFR2. Objective: Here we review the past and current state of the CRF/CRFR field, ranging from pharmacologi-cal studies to genetic mouse models and virus-mediated manipulations. Results: Although it is well established that CRF/CRFR1 signaling mediates aversive responses, includ-ing anxiety and depression-like behaviors, a number of recent studies have challenged this viewpoint by revealing anxiolytic and appetitive properties of specific CRF/CRFR1 circuits. In contrast, the UCN/CRFR2 system is less well understood and may possibly also exert divergent functions on physiol-ogy and behavior depending on the brain region, underlying circuit, and/or experienced stress conditions. Conclusion: A plethora of available genetic tools, including conventional and conditional mouse mutants targeting CRF system components, has greatly advanced our understanding about the endogenous mecha-nisms underlying HPA system regulation and CRF/UCN-related neuronal circuits involved in stress-related behaviors. Yet, the detailed pathways and molecular mechanisms by which the CRF/UCN-system translates negative or positive stimuli into the final, integrated biological response are not completely un-derstood. The utilization of future complementary methodologies, such as cell-type specific Cre-driver lines, viral and optogenetic tools will help to further dissect the function of genetically defined CRF/UCN neurocircuits in the context of adaptive and maladaptive stress responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Dedic
- Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Kraepelinstr, 2-10, 80804 Munich. Germany
| | - Alon Chen
- Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Kraepelinstr, 2-10, 80804 Munich. Germany
| | - Jan M Deussing
- Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Kraepelinstr, 2-10, 80804 Munich. Germany
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Deussing JM, Chen A. The Corticotropin-Releasing Factor Family: Physiology of the Stress Response. Physiol Rev 2018; 98:2225-2286. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00042.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The physiological stress response is responsible for the maintenance of homeostasis in the presence of real or perceived challenges. In this function, the brain activates adaptive responses that involve numerous neural circuits and effector molecules to adapt to the current and future demands. A maladaptive stress response has been linked to the etiology of a variety of disorders, such as anxiety and mood disorders, eating disorders, and the metabolic syndrome. The neuropeptide corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and its relatives, the urocortins 1–3, in concert with their receptors (CRFR1, CRFR2), have emerged as central components of the physiological stress response. This central peptidergic system impinges on a broad spectrum of physiological processes that are the basis for successful adaptation and concomitantly integrate autonomic, neuroendocrine, and behavioral stress responses. This review focuses on the physiology of CRF-related peptides and their cognate receptors with the aim of providing a comprehensive up-to-date overview of the field. We describe the major molecular features covering aspects of gene expression and regulation, structural properties, and molecular interactions, as well as mechanisms of signal transduction and their surveillance. In addition, we discuss the large body of published experimental studies focusing on state-of-the-art genetic approaches with high temporal and spatial precision, which collectively aimed to dissect the contribution of CRF-related ligands and receptors to different levels of the stress response. We discuss the controversies in the field and unravel knowledge gaps that might pave the way for future research directions and open up novel opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan M. Deussing
- Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany; and Department of Neurobiology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Alon Chen
- Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany; and Department of Neurobiology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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Zhou J, Zhao S, Dunker AK. Intrinsically Disordered Proteins Link Alternative Splicing and Post-translational Modifications to Complex Cell Signaling and Regulation. J Mol Biol 2018; 430:2342-2359. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2018.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Revised: 03/25/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Identification of Three Novel Splicing Variants and Expression Analysis of Chicken GPR1 Gene. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:1074054. [PMID: 28203567 PMCID: PMC5292125 DOI: 10.1155/2017/1074054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
GPR1 is a G protein-coupled receptor that plays critical roles in eukaryotic cells: typically, response to glucose stimulation, lipid accumulation, and transmitting nutrition signals to cAMP pathway. However, the alternative splicing of the GPR1 gene and its expression pattern in chicken tissues and ovarian follicles were unknown. In our current study, we used RACE-PCR to identify three GPR1 variants, including the full-length variant (GPR1-va1) and two alternatively spliced variants (GPR1-va2, GPR1-vb). Quantitative real-time PCR examined the expression pattern of GPR1 mRNA in chicken tissues and ovarian follicles. The result reveals that the coding sequence of the three variants cDNA is 1053, 1053, and 627 bp in length, encoding 350, 350, and 208 amino acids, respectively. The three variants of GPR1 show similar tissue distributions; GPR1 expression was abundant in the abdominal fat, lung, and heart. With the follicular development, the expression of GPR1 gene gradually increased, and GPR1-va1 and GPR1-va2 spliced variants expression in F2 were significantly higher than in F5, F4, and prehierarchical follicles (P < 0.05). Taken together, we found three novel variants of GPR1, and the results of GPR1 expression profiling in adipose tissues and ovarian follicles suggest that GPR1 may play a significant role in the lipid accumulation and progression of follicular development.
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Corticotropin-releasing factor receptor type 1 and type 2 interaction in irritable bowel syndrome. J Gastroenterol 2015; 50:819-30. [PMID: 25962711 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-015-1086-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) displays chronic abdominal pain or discomfort with altered defecation, and stress-induced altered gut motility and visceral sensation play an important role in the pathophysiology. Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is a main mediator of stress responses and mediates these gastrointestinal functional changes. CRF in brain and periphery acts through two subtype receptors such as CRF receptor type 1 (CRF1) and type 2 (CRF2), and activating CRF1 exclusively stimulates colonic motor function and induces visceral hypersensitivity. Meanwhile, several recent studies have demonstrated that CRF2 has a counter regulatory action against CRF1, which may imply that CRF2 inhibits stress response induced by CRF1 in order to prevent it from going into an overdrive state. Colonic contractility and sensation may be explained by the state of the intensity of CRF1 signaling. CRF2 signaling may play a role in CRF1-triggered enhanced colonic functions through modulation of CRF1 activity. Blocking CRF2 further enhances CRF-induced stimulation of colonic contractility and activating CRF2 inhibits stress-induced visceral sensitization. Therefore, we proposed the hypothesis, i.e., balance theory of CRF1 and CRF2 signaling as follows. Both CRF receptors may be activated simultaneously and the signaling balance of CRF1 and CRF2 may determine the functional changes of gastrointestinal tract induced by stress. CRF signaling balance might be abnormally shifted toward CRF1, leading to enhanced colonic motility and visceral sensitization in IBS. This theory may lead to understanding the pathophysiology and provide the novel therapeutic options targeting altered signaling balance of CRF1 and CRF2 in IBS.
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Structured and disordered facets of the GPCR fold. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2014; 27:129-37. [PMID: 25198166 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2014.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2014] [Revised: 07/28/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The seven-transmembrane (7TM) helix fold of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) has been adapted for a wide variety of physiologically important signaling functions. Here, we discuss the diversity in the structured and disordered regions of GPCRs based on the recently published crystal structures and sequence analysis of all human GPCRs. A comparison of the structures of rhodopsin-like receptors (class A), secretin-like receptors (class B), metabotropic receptors (class C) and frizzled receptors (class F) shows that the relative arrangement of the transmembrane helices is conserved across all four GPCR classes although individual receptors can be activated by ligand binding at varying positions within and around the transmembrane helical bundle. A systematic analysis of GPCR sequences reveals the presence of disordered segments in the cytoplasmic side, abundant post-translational modification sites, evidence for alternative splicing and several putative linear peptide motifs that have the potential to mediate interactions with cytosolic proteins. While the structured regions permit the receptor to bind diverse ligands, the disordered regions appear to have an underappreciated role in modulating downstream signaling in response to the cellular state. An integrated paradigm combining the knowledge of structured and disordered regions is imperative for gaining a holistic understanding of the GPCR (un)structure-function relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitris K Grammatopoulos
- Division of Metabolic and Vascular Health; Warwick Medical School; University of Warwick; Coventry, UK
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Slominski AT, Zmijewski MA, Zbytek B, Tobin DJ, Theoharides TC, Rivier J. Key role of CRF in the skin stress response system. Endocr Rev 2013; 34:827-84. [PMID: 23939821 PMCID: PMC3857130 DOI: 10.1210/er.2012-1092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 287] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2012] [Accepted: 08/02/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) or CRH defining the upper regulatory arm of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, along with the identification of the corresponding receptors (CRFRs 1 and 2), represents a milestone in our understanding of central mechanisms regulating body and local homeostasis. We focused on the CRF-led signaling systems in the skin and offer a model for regulation of peripheral homeostasis based on the interaction of CRF and the structurally related urocortins with corresponding receptors and the resulting direct or indirect phenotypic effects that include regulation of epidermal barrier function, skin immune, pigmentary, adnexal, and dermal functions necessary to maintain local and systemic homeostasis. The regulatory modes of action include the classical CRF-led cutaneous equivalent of the central HPA axis, the expression and function of CRF and related peptides, and the stimulation of pro-opiomelanocortin peptides or cytokines. The key regulatory role is assigned to the CRFR-1α receptor, with other isoforms having modulatory effects. CRF can be released from sensory nerves and immune cells in response to emotional and environmental stressors. The expression sequence of peptides includes urocortin/CRF→pro-opiomelanocortin→ACTH, MSH, and β-endorphin. Expression of these peptides and of CRFR-1α is environmentally regulated, and their dysfunction can lead to skin and systemic diseases. Environmentally stressed skin can activate both the central and local HPA axis through either sensory nerves or humoral factors to turn on homeostatic responses counteracting cutaneous and systemic environmental damage. CRF and CRFR-1 may constitute novel targets through the use of specific agonists or antagonists, especially for therapy of skin diseases that worsen with stress, such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej T Slominski
- MD, PhD, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center; 930 Madison Avenue, Suite 500, Memphis, Tennessee 38163.
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Lal S, Allan A, Markovic D, Walker R, Macartney J, Europe-Finner N, Tyson-Capper A, Grammatopoulos DK. Estrogen Alters the Splicing of Type 1 Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone Receptor in Breast Cancer Cells. Sci Signal 2013; 6:ra53. [DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.2003926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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15
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Blechman J, Levkowitz G. Alternative Splicing of the Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide Receptor PAC1: Mechanisms of Fine Tuning of Brain Activity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2013; 4:55. [PMID: 23734144 PMCID: PMC3659299 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2013.00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2012] [Accepted: 04/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternative splicing of the precursor mRNA encoding for the neuropeptide receptor PAC1/ADCYAP1R1 generates multiple protein products that exhibit pleiotropic activities. Recent studies in mammals and zebrafish have implicated some of these splice isoforms in control of both cellular and body homeostasis. Here, we review the regulation of PAC1 splice variants and their underlying signal transduction and physiological processes in the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna Blechman
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of ScienceRehovot, Israel
| | - Gil Levkowitz
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of ScienceRehovot, Israel
- *Correspondence: Gil Levkowitz, Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, P. O. Box 26, Rehovot 76100, Israel. e-mail:
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16
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Abstract
Alternative mRNA splicing as an important mechanism for generating protein diversity has been implicated to affect 60-70% of human genes (Wang et al., 2008). The G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), the largest group of membrane receptors, have a broad distribution and function. Posttranslational modifications or/and association with regulatory proteins can govern cell- and tissue-specific pharmacological, signaling, and regulatory characteristics of GPCRs. However, increasing body of evidence suggests that alternative splicing of GPCRs is a mechanism that can modulate GPCRs' function (Einstein et al., 2008). Many GPCRs have a potential to undergo alternative pre-mRNA splicing (~50%). Due to a general lack of isoform-specific antibodies, GPCRs' alternative splicing is mainly studied on mRNA level employing various PCR techniques. Functional characteristics (including signaling and structure) of alternatively spliced GPCRs are studied in overexpression system employing standard biochemical techniques. In this chapter, we will describe the methods for detection and quantification of alternatively spliced GPCR mRNA. As the experimental paradigm, we use type 1 corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor (CRH-R1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Danijela Markovic
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA.
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Sato N, Suzuki N, Sasaki A, Aizawa E, Obayashi T, Kanazawa M, Mizuno T, Kano M, Aoki M, Fukudo S. Corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 1 gene variants in irritable bowel syndrome. PLoS One 2012; 7:e42450. [PMID: 22957021 PMCID: PMC3434156 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0042450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2012] [Accepted: 07/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) acts mainly via the CRH receptor 1 (CRH-R1) and plays a crucial role in the stress-induced pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Several studies have demonstrated that variants of the CRH-R1 gene carry a potential risk for depression, but evidence for an association between CRH-R1 genotypes and IBS is lacking. We tested the hypothesis that genetic polymorphisms and haplotypes of CRH-R1 moderate the IBS phenotype and negative emotion in IBS patients. METHODS A total of 103 patients with IBS and 142 healthy controls participated in the study. Three single-nucleotide polymorphisms of the CRH-R1 gene (rs7209436, rs242924, and rs110402) were genotyped. Subjects' emotional states were evaluated using the Perceived-Stress Scale, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the Self-rating Depression Scale. RESULTS The TT genotype of rs7209436 (P = 0.01) and rs242924 (P = 0.02) was significantly more common in patients with IBS than in controls. Total sample analysis showed significant association between bowel pattern (normal, diarrhea, constipation, or mixed symptoms) and the T allele of rs7209436 (P = 0.008), T allele of rs242924 (P = 0.019), A allele of rs110402 (P = 0.047), and TAT haplocopies (P = 0.048). Negative emotion was not associated with the examined CRH-R1 SNPs. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that genetic polymorphisms and the CRH-R1 haplotypes moderate IBS and related bowel patterns. There was no clear association between CRH-R1 genotypes and negative emotion accompanying IBS. Further studies on the CRH system are therefore warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Sato
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Naoki Suzuki
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Ayaka Sasaki
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Emiko Aizawa
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Takeshi Obayashi
- Department of Applied Informatics for Human and Life Sciences, Tohoku University Graduate School of Information Science, Sendai, Japan
| | - Motoyori Kanazawa
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tomoko Mizuno
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Michiko Kano
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Masashi Aoki
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Shin Fukudo
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- * E-mail:
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18
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Grammatopoulos DK. Insights into mechanisms of corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor signal transduction. Br J Pharmacol 2012; 166:85-97. [PMID: 21883143 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01631.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
During evolution, mammals have developed remarkably similar molecular mechanisms to respond to external challenges and maintain survival. Critical regulators of these mechanisms are the family of 'stress'-peptides that consists of the corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and urocortins (Ucns). These neuropeptides 'fine-tune' integration of an intricate series of physiological responses involving the autonomic, endocrine, immune, cardiovascular and reproductive systems, which induce a spectrum of behavioural and homeostatic changes. CRH and Ucns exert their actions by activating two types of CRH receptors (CRH-R), CRH-R1 and CRH-R2, which belong to the class-B1 family of GPCRs. The CRH-Rs exhibit signalling promiscuity facilitated by their ability to couple to multiple G-proteins and regulate diverse intracellular networks that involve intracellular effectors such as cAMP and an array of PKs in an agonist and tissue-specific manner, a property that allows them to exert unique roles in the integration of homeostatic mechanisms. We only now begin to unravel the plethora of CRH-R biological actions and the transcriptional and post-translational mechanisms such as alternative mRNA splicing or phosphorylation-mediated desensitization developed to tightly control CRH-Rs biological activity and regulate their physiological actions. This review summarizes the current understanding of CRH-R signalling complexity and regulatory mechanisms that underpin cellular responses to CRH and Ucns.
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19
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Lee JM, Hull JJ, Kawai T, Goto C, Kurihara M, Tanokura M, Nagata K, Nagasawa H, Matsumoto S. Re-Evaluation of the PBAN Receptor Molecule: Characterization of PBANR Variants Expressed in the Pheromone Glands of Moths. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2012; 3:6. [PMID: 22654850 PMCID: PMC3356081 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2012.00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2011] [Accepted: 01/09/2012] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex pheromone production in most moths is initiated following pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide receptor (PBANR) activation. PBANR was initially cloned from pheromone glands (PGs) of Helicoverpa zea and Bombyx mori. The B. mori PBANR is characterized by a relatively long C-terminus that is essential for ligand-induced internalization, whereas the H. zea PBANR has a shorter C-terminus that lacks features present in the B. mori PBANR critical for internalization. Multiple PBANRs have been reported to be concurrently expressed in the larval CNS of Heliothis virescens. In the current study, we sought to examine the prevalence of multiple PBANRs in the PGs of three moths and to ascertain their potential functional relevance. Multiple PBANR variants (As, A, B, and C) were cloned from the PGs of all species examined with PBANR-C the most highly expressed. Alternative splicing of the C-terminal coding sequence of the PBAN gene gives rise to the variants, which are distinguishable only by the length and composition of their respective C-terminal tails. Transient expression of fluorescent PBANR chimeras in insect cells revealed that PBANR-B and PBANR-C localized exclusively to the cell surface while PBANR-As and PBANR-A exhibited varying degrees of cytosolic localization. Similarly, only the PBANR-B and PBANR-C variants underwent ligand-induced internalization. Taken together, our results suggest that PBANR-C is the principal receptor molecule involved in PBAN signaling regardless of moth species. The high GC content of the C-terminal coding sequence in the B and C variants, which makes amplification using conventional polymerases difficult, likely accounts for previous "preferential" amplification of PBANR-A like receptors from other species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Min Lee
- Molecular Entomology Laboratory, RIKEN Advanced Science InstituteWako, Japan
| | - J. Joe Hull
- Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Arid Land Agricultural Research CenterMaricopa, AZ, USA
- *Correspondence: J. Joe Hull, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Arid Land Agricultural Research Center, 21881 N Cardon Lane, Maricopa, AZ 85138, USA. e-mail: ; Shogo Matsumoto, RIKEN Advanced Science Institute, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan. e-mail:
| | - Takeshi Kawai
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of TokyoTokyo, Japan
| | - Chie Goto
- Agricultural Research Center, National Agriculture and Food Research OrganizationTsukuba, Japan
| | - Masaaki Kurihara
- Molecular Entomology Laboratory, RIKEN Advanced Science InstituteWako, Japan
| | - Masaru Tanokura
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of TokyoTokyo, Japan
| | - Koji Nagata
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of TokyoTokyo, Japan
| | - Hiromichi Nagasawa
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of TokyoTokyo, Japan
| | - Shogo Matsumoto
- Molecular Entomology Laboratory, RIKEN Advanced Science InstituteWako, Japan
- *Correspondence: J. Joe Hull, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Arid Land Agricultural Research Center, 21881 N Cardon Lane, Maricopa, AZ 85138, USA. e-mail: ; Shogo Matsumoto, RIKEN Advanced Science Institute, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan. e-mail:
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20
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Inoue H, Kangawa N, Kinouchi A, Sakamoto Y, Kimura C, Horikawa R, Shigematsu Y, Itakura M, Ogata T, Fujieda K. Identification and functional analysis of novel human growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor (GHRHR) gene mutations in Japanese subjects with short stature. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2011; 74:223-33. [PMID: 21044116 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.2010.03911.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor (GHRHR) gene mutations have been identified in patients of different ethnic origins with isolated GH deficiency (IGHD) type IB. However, the prevalence of these mutations in the Japanese population has yet to be fully determined. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate the contributions of GHRHR mutations to the molecular mechanism underlying short stature in Japanese subjects. DESIGN The GHRHR gene was sequenced in 127 unrelated Japanese patients with either IGHD (n = 14) or idiopathic short stature (ISS; n = 113). Sequence variants were evaluated in family members and 188 controls, and then examined in functional studies. RESULTS A novel homozygous E382E (c.1146G>A) synonymous variant, at the last base of exon 12, was identified in an IGHD family with two affected sisters. In vitro splicing studies showed this mutation to result in skipping of exon 12. In one ISS patient, a heterozygous ATG-166T>C variant was found in the distal Pit-1 P2 binding element of the GHRHR promoter. In two control subjects, a close but distinct variant, ATG-164T>C, was detected. Functional studies showed that both promoter variants diminish promoter activity by altering Pit-1 binding ability. Four missense variants were also found in both patient and control groups but had no detectable functional consequences. CONCLUSIONS The homozygous GHRHR mutation was rare, being detected in only one Japanese IGHD family. Future research is needed to clarify the genetic contributions of heterozygous functional promoter variants to GHD, ISS and normal-stature variations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Inoue
- Division of Genetic Information, Institute for Genome Research, The University of Tokushima, Kuramoto 3-18-15, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan.
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Strotmann R, Schröck K, Böselt I, Stäubert C, Russ A, Schöneberg T. Evolution of GPCR: change and continuity. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2011; 331:170-8. [PMID: 20708652 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2010.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2009] [Revised: 06/28/2010] [Accepted: 07/13/2010] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Once introduced into the very early eukaryotic blueprint, seven-transmembrane receptors soon became the central and versatile components of the evolutionary highly successful G protein-coupled transmembrane signaling mechanism. In contrast to all other components of this signal transduction pathway, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) evolved in various structural families, eventually comprising hundreds of members in vertebrate genomes. Their functional diversity is in contrast to the conserved transmembrane core and the invariant set of intracellular signaling mechanisms, and it may be the interplay of these properties that is the key to the evolutionary success of GPCR. The GPCR repertoires retrieved from extant vertebrate genomes are the recent endpoints of this long evolutionary process. But the shaping of the fine structure and the repertoire of GPCR is still ongoing, and signatures of recent selection acting on GPCR genes can be made visible by modern population genetic methods. The very dynamic evolution of GPCR can be analyzed from different perspectives: at the levels of sequence comparisons between species from different families, orders and classes, and at the level of populations within a species. Here, we summarize the main conclusions from studies at these different levels with a specific focus on the more recent evolutionary dynamics of GPCR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rainer Strotmann
- Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Germany.
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22
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Bonfiglio JJ, Inda C, Refojo D, Holsboer F, Arzt E, Silberstein S. The corticotropin-releasing hormone network and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis: molecular and cellular mechanisms involved. Neuroendocrinology 2011; 94:12-20. [PMID: 21576930 DOI: 10.1159/000328226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2011] [Accepted: 04/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) plays a key role in adjusting the basal and stress-activated hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA). CRH is also widely distributed in extrahypothalamic circuits, where it acts as a neuroregulator to integrate the complex neuroendocrine, autonomic, and behavioral adaptive response to stress. Hyperactive and/or dysregulated CRH circuits are involved in neuroendocrinological disturbances and stress-related mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. This review describes the main physiological features of the CRH network and summarizes recent relevant information concerning the molecular mechanism of CRH action obtained from signal transduction studies using cells and wild-type and transgenic mice lines. Special focus is placed on the MAPK signaling pathways triggered by CRH through the CRH receptor 1 that plays an essential role in CRH action in pituitary corticotrophs and in specific brain structures. Recent findings underpin the concept of specific CRH-signaling pathways restricted to specific anatomical areas. Understanding CRH action at molecular levels will not only provide insight into the precise CRH mechanism of action, but will also be instrumental in identifying novel targets for pharmacological intervention in neuroendocrine tissues and specific brain areas involved in CRH-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan José Bonfiglio
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Biología Molecular, Departamento de Fisiología y Biología Molecular y Celular, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Goncalves JA, Ahuja S, Erfani S, Eilers M, Smith SO. Structure and function of G protein-coupled receptors using NMR spectroscopy. PROGRESS IN NUCLEAR MAGNETIC RESONANCE SPECTROSCOPY 2010; 57:159-80. [PMID: 20633362 PMCID: PMC2907352 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnmrs.2010.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2010] [Accepted: 04/08/2010] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A Goncalves
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Structural Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5215, USA
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Markovic D, Challiss RAJ. Alternative splicing of G protein-coupled receptors: physiology and pathophysiology. Cell Mol Life Sci 2009; 66:3337-52. [PMID: 19629391 PMCID: PMC11115665 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-009-0093-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2009] [Revised: 06/30/2009] [Accepted: 07/03/2009] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a superfamily of transmembrane receptors that have a broad distribution and can collectively recognise a diverse array of ligands. Activation or inhibition of GPCR signalling can affect many (patho)physiological processes, and consequently they are a major target for existing and emerging drug therapies. A common observation has been that the pharmacological, signalling and regulatory properties of GPCRs can differ in a cell- and tissue-specific manner. Such "phenotypic" diversity might be attributable to post-translational modifications and/or association of GPCRs with accessory proteins, however, post-transcriptional mechanisms are also likely to contribute. Although approximately 50% of GPCR genes are intronless, those that possess introns can undergo alternative splicing, generating GPCR subtype isoforms that may differ in their pharmacological, signalling and regulatory properties. In this review we shall highlight recent research into GPCR splice variation and discuss the potential consequences this might have for GPCR function in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danijela Markovic
- Department of Cell Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Leicester, Henry Wellcome Building, Leicester, UK.
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