1
|
Heo G, Lee SH, Kim JD, Lee GH, Sim JM, Zhou D, Guo J, Cui XS. GRP78 acts as a cAMP/PKA signaling modulator through the MC4R pathway in porcine embryonic development. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23274. [PMID: 37917004 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301356r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) binds to and stabilizes melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R), which activates protein kinase A (PKA) by regulating G proteins. GRP78 is primarily used as a marker for endoplasmic reticulum stress; however, its other functions have not been well studied. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the function of GRP78 during porcine embryonic development. The developmental quality of porcine embryos, expression of cell cycle proteins, and function of mitochondria were evaluated by inhibiting the function of GRP78. Porcine oocytes were activated to undergo parthenogenesis, and blastocysts were obtained after 7 days of in vitro culture. GRP78 function was inhibited by adding 20 μM HA15 to the in vitro culture medium. The inhibition in GRP78 function led to a decrease in G proteins release, which subsequently downregulated the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/PKA pathway. Ultimately, inhibition of GRP78 function induced the inhibition of CDK1 and cyclin B expression and disruption of the cell cycle. In addition, inhibition of GRP78 function regulated DRP1 and SIRT1 expression, resulting in mitochondrial dysfunction. This study provides new insights into the role of GRP78 in porcine embryonic development, particularly its involvement in the regulation of the MC4R pathway and downstream cAMP/PKA signaling. The results suggest that the inhibition of GRP78 function in porcine embryos by HA15 treatment may have negative effects on embryo quality and development. This study also demonstrated that GRP78 plays a crucial role in the functioning of MC4R, which releases the G protein during porcine embryonic development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geun Heo
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Song-Hee Lee
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Dam Kim
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyu-Hyun Lee
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Min Sim
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongjie Zhou
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jing Guo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiang-Shun Cui
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Xu DM, He S, Liang XF, Wu JQ, Wang QL, Jia XD. Regulatory effect of NK homeobox 1 (NKX2.1) on melanocortin 4 receptor (Mc4r) promoter in Mandarin fish. J Cell Physiol 2023; 238:2867-2878. [PMID: 37850660 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
The melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) is a G protein-coupled transporter that mediates the regulation of thyroid hormones and leptin on energy balance and food intake. However, the mechanisms of transcriptional regulation of Mc4r by thyroid hormone and leptin in fish have been rarely reported. The messenger RNA expression of Mc4r gene was significantly higher in brain than those in other tissues of mandarin fish. We analyzed the structure and function of a 2029 bp sequence of Mc4r promoter. Meanwhile, overexpression of NKX2.1 and incubation with leptin significantly increased Mc4r promoter activity, but triiodothyronine showed the opposite effect. In addition, mutations in the NKX2.1 binding site abolished not only the activation of Mc4r promoter activity by leptin but also the inhibitory effect of thyroid hormones on Mc4r promoter activity. In summary, these results suggested that thyroid hormones and leptin might regulate the transcriptional expression of Mc4r through NKX2.1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Di-Mei Xu
- College of Fisheries, Chinese Perch Research Center, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Shan He
- College of Fisheries, Chinese Perch Research Center, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Xu-Fang Liang
- College of Fisheries, Chinese Perch Research Center, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Jia-Qi Wu
- College of Fisheries, Chinese Perch Research Center, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiu-Ling Wang
- College of Fisheries, Chinese Perch Research Center, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao-Dan Jia
- College of Fisheries, Chinese Perch Research Center, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chermon D, Birk R. Predisposition of the Common MC4R rs17782313 Female Carriers to Elevated Obesity and Interaction with Eating Habits. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1996. [PMID: 38002939 PMCID: PMC10671328 DOI: 10.3390/genes14111996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The global rise in obesity is attributed to genetic predisposition interaction with an obesogenic environment. Melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) rs17782313 polymorphism has been linked to common obesity with varying influence across different populations. MC4R is a crucial player in the leptin proopiomelanocortin pathway that regulates weight hemostasis. We aimed to study MC4R rs17782313 and its interaction with eating behaviors on obesity predisposition in the Israeli population. Adults' (n = 5785, >18 y) genotype and anthropometric and demographic data were analyzed using logistic regression models adjusting for age, sex, T1DM, and T2DM. MC4R rs17782313 significantly predisposes to elevated obesity risk under the recessive and additive models (OR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.1-1.72, p = 0.005 and OR = 1.1, 95% CI: 1.01-1.2, p = 0.03, respectively) adjusted for confounders (age, sex, T1DM, and T2DM). Stratification by sex demonstrated that carrying the common MC4R rs17782313 is significantly associated with an elevated predisposition to obesity under the recessive model among females only (OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.09-1.82, p = 0.01), with an average of 0.85 BMI increment compared with wild type and one risk allele carriers. MC4R rs17782313 significantly interacted with several eating behaviors to enhance the risk of obesity. Our findings demonstrate that MC4R rs17782313 homozygous female carriers are significantly predisposed to obesity amplified by eating behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruth Birk
- Nutrition Department, Health Sciences Faculty, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wei R, Li D, Jia S, Chen Y, Wang J. MC4R in Central and Peripheral Systems. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023; 7:e2300035. [PMID: 37043700 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Obesity has emerged as a critical and urgent health burden during the current global pandemic. Among multiple genetic causes, melanocortin receptor-4 (MC4R), involved in food intake and energy metabolism regulation through various signaling pathways, has been reported to be the lead genetic factor in severe and early onset obesity and hyperphagia disorders. Most previous studies have illustrated the roles of MC4R signaling in energy intake versus expenditure in the central system, while some evidence indicates that MC4R is also expressed in peripheral systems, such as the gut and endocrine organs. However, its physiopathological function remains poorly defined. This review aims to depict the central and peripheral roles of MC4R in energy metabolism and endocrine hormone homeostasis, the diversity of phenotypes, biased downstream signaling caused by distinct MC4R mutations, and current drug development targeting the receptor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ran Wei
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Danjie Li
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Sheng Jia
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Yuhong Chen
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Jiqiu Wang
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wu CLS, Cioanca AV, Gelmi MC, Wen L, Di Girolamo N, Zhu L, Natoli R, Conway RM, Petsoglou C, Jager MJ, McCluskey PJ, Madigan MC. The multifunctional human ocular melanocortin system. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 95:101187. [PMID: 37217094 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2023.101187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Immune privilege in the eye involves physical barriers, immune regulation and secreted proteins that together limit the damaging effects of intraocular immune responses and inflammation. The neuropeptide alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) normally circulates in the aqueous humour of the anterior chamber and the vitreous fluid, secreted by iris and ciliary epithelium, and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). α-MSH plays an important role in maintaining ocular immune privilege by helping the development of suppressor immune cells and by activating regulatory T-cells. α-MSH functions by binding to and activating melanocortin receptors (MC1R to MC5R) and receptor accessory proteins (MRAPs) that work in concert with antagonists, otherwise known as the melanocortin system. As well as controlling immune responses and inflammation, a broad range of biological functions is increasingly recognised to be orchestrated by the melanocortin system within ocular tissues. This includes maintaining corneal transparency and immune privilege by limiting corneal (lymph)angiogenesis, sustaining corneal epithelial integrity, protecting corneal endothelium and potentially enhancing corneal graft survival, regulating aqueous tear secretion with implications for dry eye disease, facilitating retinal homeostasis via maintaining blood-retinal barriers, providing neuroprotection in the retina, and controlling abnormal new vessel growth in the choroid and retina. The role of melanocortin signalling in uveal melanocyte melanogenesis however remains unclear compared to its established role in skin melanogenesis. The early application of a melanocortin agonist to downregulate systemic inflammation used adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-based repository cortisone injection (RCI), but adverse side effects including hypertension, edema, and weight gain, related to increased adrenal gland corticosteroid production, impacted clinical uptake. Compared to ACTH, melanocortin peptides that target MC1R, MC3R, MC4R and/or MC5R, but not adrenal gland MC2R, induce minimal corticosteroid production with fewer amdverse systemic effects. Pharmacological advances in synthesising MCR-specific targeted peptides provide further opportunities for treating ocular (and systemic) inflammatory diseases. Following from these observations and a renewed clinical and pharmacological interest in the diverse biological roles of the melanocortin system, this review highlights the physiological and disease-related involvement of this system within human eye tissues. We also review the emerging benefits and versatility of melanocortin receptor targeted peptides as non-steroidal alternatives for inflammatory eye diseases such as non-infectious uveitis and dry eye disease, and translational applications in promoting ocular homeostasis, for example, in corneal transplantation and diabetic retinopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chieh-Lin Stanley Wu
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Department of Optometry, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Adrian V Cioanca
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, ACT, Australia; ANU Medical School, The Australian National University, ACT, Australia
| | - Maria C Gelmi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Li Wen
- New South Wales Organ and Tissue Donation Service, Sydney Hospital and Sydney Eye Hospital, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Nick Di Girolamo
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Mechanisms of Disease and Translational Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ling Zhu
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Riccardo Natoli
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, ACT, Australia; ANU Medical School, The Australian National University, ACT, Australia
| | - R Max Conway
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Constantinos Petsoglou
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; New South Wales Organ and Tissue Donation Service, Sydney Hospital and Sydney Eye Hospital, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Martine J Jager
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Peter J McCluskey
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michele C Madigan
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Jia X, Fan S, Dong W, Li S, Zhang Y, Ma Y, Wang S. Setmelanotide optimization through fragment-growing, molecular docking in-silico method targeting MC4 receptor. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:15411-15420. [PMID: 37126536 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2204385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Obesity has emerged as a global issue, but with the complex structures of multiple related important targets and their agonists or antagonists determined, the mechanism of ligand-protein interaction may offer new chances for developing new generation agonists anti-obesity. Based on the molecule surface of the cryo-EM protein structure 7AUE, we tried to replace D-Ala3 with D-Met in setmelanotide as the linker site for fragment-growing with De novo evolution. The simulation results indicate that the derivatives could improve the binding abilities with the melanocortin 4 receptor and the selectivity over the melanocortin 1 receptor. The improved selectivity of the newly designed derivatives is mainly due to the shape difference of the molecular surface at the orthosteric peptide-binding pocket between melanocortin 4 receptor and melanocortin 1 receptor. The new extended fragments could not only enhance the binding affinities but also function as a gripper to seize the pore, making it easier to balance and stabilize the other component of the new derivatives. Although it is challenging to synthesize the compounds designed in silico, this study may perhaps serve as a trigger for additional anti-obesity research.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaopu Jia
- School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuai Fan
- School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Weili Dong
- School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shaoyong Li
- School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Tianjin Branch of National Clinical Research Centre for Ocular Disease, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Ying Ma
- School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuqing Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ju SH, Yun H, Oh Y, Choi Y, Sohn JW. Melanocortin-4 receptors activate sympathetic preganglionic neurons and elevate blood pressure via TRPV1. Cell Rep 2022; 41:111579. [DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
|
8
|
Reynaud S, Laurin SA, Ciolek J, Barbe P, Van Baelen AC, Susset M, Blondel F, Ghazarian M, Boeri J, Vanden Driessche M, Upert G, Mourier G, Kessler P, Konnert L, Beroud R, Keck M, Servent D, Bouvier M, Gilles N. From a Cone Snail Toxin to a Competitive MC4R Antagonist. J Med Chem 2022; 65:12084-12094. [PMID: 36063022 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) plays a role in energy homeostasis and represents a target for treating energy balance disorders. For decades, synthetic ligands have been derived from MC4R endogenous agonists and antagonists, such as setmelanotide used to treat rare forms of genetic obesity. Recently, animal venoms have demonstrated their capacity to provide melanocortin ligands with toxins from a scorpion and a spider. Here, we described a cone snail toxin, N-CTX-Ltg1a, with a nanomolar affinity for hMC4R but unrelated to any known toxins or melanocortin ligands. We then derived from the conotoxin the linear peptide HT1-0, a competitive antagonist of Gs, G15, and β-arrestin2 pathways with a low nanomolar affinity for hMC4R. Similar to endogenous ligands, HT1-0 needs hydrophobic and basic residues to bind hMC4R. Altogether, it represents the first venom-derived peptide of high affinity on MC4R and paves the way for the development of new MC4R antagonists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steve Reynaud
- Health and Life Sciences Department, Université Paris Saclay, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), CEA Saclay, Bat 152, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Suli-Anne Laurin
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Justyna Ciolek
- Health and Life Sciences Department, Université Paris Saclay, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), CEA Saclay, Bat 152, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Peggy Barbe
- Health and Life Sciences Department, Université Paris Saclay, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), CEA Saclay, Bat 152, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Anne-Cécile Van Baelen
- Health and Life Sciences Department, Université Paris Saclay, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), CEA Saclay, Bat 152, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Michaël Susset
- Health and Life Sciences Department, Université Paris Saclay, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), CEA Saclay, Bat 152, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Florian Blondel
- Health and Life Sciences Department, Université Paris Saclay, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), CEA Saclay, Bat 152, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Marine Ghazarian
- Health and Life Sciences Department, Université Paris Saclay, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), CEA Saclay, Bat 152, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Julia Boeri
- Health and Life Sciences Department, Université Paris Saclay, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), CEA Saclay, Bat 152, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Margot Vanden Driessche
- Health and Life Sciences Department, Université Paris Saclay, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), CEA Saclay, Bat 152, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Grégory Upert
- Health and Life Sciences Department, Université Paris Saclay, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), CEA Saclay, Bat 152, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Gilles Mourier
- Health and Life Sciences Department, Université Paris Saclay, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), CEA Saclay, Bat 152, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Pascal Kessler
- Health and Life Sciences Department, Université Paris Saclay, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), CEA Saclay, Bat 152, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Laure Konnert
- Smartox Biotechnology, 6 Rue des Platanes, 38120 Saint-Egrève, France
| | - Rémy Beroud
- Smartox Biotechnology, 6 Rue des Platanes, 38120 Saint-Egrève, France
| | - Mathilde Keck
- Health and Life Sciences Department, Université Paris Saclay, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), CEA Saclay, Bat 152, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Denis Servent
- Health and Life Sciences Department, Université Paris Saclay, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), CEA Saclay, Bat 152, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Michel Bouvier
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Nicolas Gilles
- Health and Life Sciences Department, Université Paris Saclay, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), CEA Saclay, Bat 152, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ni Z, Wang Y, Shi C, Zhang X, Gong H, Dong Y. Islet MC4R Regulates PC1/3 to Improve Insulin Secretion in T2DM Mice via the cAMP and β-arrestin-1 Pathways. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2022; 194:6164-6178. [PMID: 35900711 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-022-04089-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) plays an important role in energy balance regulation and insulin secretion. It has been demonstrated that in the pancreas, it is expressed in islet α and β cells, wherein it is significantly correlated with insulin and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretion. However, the molecular mechanism by which it regulates islet function is still unclear. Therefore, in this study, our aim was to clarify the signaling and target genes involved in the regulation of insulin and GLP-1 secretion by islet MC4R. The results obtained showed that in islet cells, the expression of prohormone convertase 1/3 (PC1/3), which is correlated with islet GLP-1 and insulin secretion, increased significantly under the action of the MC4R agonist, NDP-α-MSH, but decreased under the action of the MC4R antagonist, AgRP. Additionally, we observed that to exert their regulatory functions in the islets, cAMP and β-arrestin-1 acted as important signaling mediators of MC4R, and compared with control islets, the cAMP, PKA, and β-arrestin-1 levels corresponding to NDP-α-MSH-treated islets were significantly elevated; however, in AgRP-treated islets, their levels decreased significantly. Islets treated with the PKA inhibitor, H89, and the ERK1/2 inhibitor, PD98059, also showed significant decreases in PC1/3 expression level, indicating that the cAMP and β-arrestin-1 pathways are significantly correlated with PC1/3 expression. These findings suggest that islet MC4R possibly affects PC1/3 expression via the cAMP and β-arrestin-1 pathways to regulate GLP-1 and insulin secretion. These results provide a new theoretical basis for targeting the molecular mechanism of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zaizhong Ni
- College of Food and Bioengineering, Xuzhou University of Technology, 221018, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yanan Wang
- College of Food and Bioengineering, Xuzhou University of Technology, 221018, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Cong Shi
- College of Food and Bioengineering, Xuzhou University of Technology, 221018, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xinping Zhang
- Clinical Laboratory, Shanxi coal Central Hospital, 030006, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Hao Gong
- College of Food and Bioengineering, Xuzhou University of Technology, 221018, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yuwei Dong
- College of Food and Bioengineering, Xuzhou University of Technology, 221018, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Molecular Analysis and Conformational Dynamics of Human MC4R Disease-Causing Mutations. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27134037. [PMID: 35807283 PMCID: PMC9268210 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27134037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a chronic disease with increasing cases among children and adolescents. Melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) is a G protein-coupled transporter involved in solute transport, enabling it to maintain cellular homeostasis. MC4R mutations are associated with early-onset severe obesity, and the identification of potential pathological variants is crucial for the clinical management of patients with obesity. A number of mutations have been reported in MC4R that are responsible for causing obesity and related complications. Delineating these mutations and analyzing their effect on MC4R’s structure will help in the clinical intervention of the disease condition as well as designing potential drugs against it. Sequence-based pathogenicity and structure-based protein stability analyses were conducted on naturally occurring variants. We used computational tools to analyze the conservation of these mutations on MC4R’s structure to map the structural variations. Detailed structural analyses were carried out for the active site mutations (i.e., D122N, D126Y, and S188L) and their influence on the binding of calcium and the agonist or antagonist. We performed molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the wild-type and selected mutations to delineate the conformational changes, which provided us with possible reasons for MC4R’s instability in these mutations. This study provides insight into the potential direction toward understanding the molecular basis of MC4R dysfunction in disease progression and obesity.
Collapse
|
11
|
Copperi F, Kim JD, Diano S. Melanocortin Signaling Connecting Systemic Metabolism With Mood Disorders. Biol Psychiatry 2022; 91:879-887. [PMID: 34344535 PMCID: PMC8643363 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2021.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Obesity and mood disorders are often overlapping pathologies that are prevalent public health concerns. Many studies have indicated a positive correlation between depression and obesity, although weight loss and decreased appetite are also recognized as features of depression. Accordingly, DSM-5 defines two subtypes of depression associated with changes in feeding: melancholic depression, characterized by anhedonia and associated with decreased feeding and appetite; and atypical depression, characterized by fatigue, sleepiness, hyperphagia, and weight gain. The central nervous system plays a key role in the regulation of feeding and mood, thus suggesting that overlapping neuronal circuits may be involved in their modulation. However, these circuits have yet to be completely characterized. The central melanocortin system, a circuitry characterized by the expression of specific peptides (pro-opiomelanocortins, agouti-related protein, and neuropeptide Y) and their melanocortin receptors, has been shown to be a key player in the regulation of feeding. In addition, the melanocortin system has also been shown to affect anxiety and depressive-like behavior, thus suggesting a possible role of the melanocortin system as a biological substrate linking feeding and depression. However, more studies are needed to fully understand this complex system and its role in regulating metabolic and mood disorders. In this review, we will discuss the current literature on the role of the melanocortin system in human and animal models in feeding and mood regulation, providing evidence of the biological interplay between anxiety, major depressive disorders, appetite, and body weight regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Copperi
- Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, 10032
| | - Jung Dae Kim
- Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, 10032
| | - Sabrina Diano
- Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York; Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York; Department of Physiology and Cellular Biophysics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wang Y, Pan L, Wan S, Yihuo W, Yang F, He H, Li Z, Yong Z, Shan G. MC4R Gene Polymorphisms Interact With the Urbanized Living Environment on Obesity: Results From the Yi Migrant Study. Front Genet 2022; 13:849138. [PMID: 35495128 PMCID: PMC9046839 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.849138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to determine the association of MC4R gene polymorphisms (rs17782313 and rs12970134) and urbanized living environment and the gene–environment interaction with obesity in Yi people in China. Methods: A 1:2 frequency-matched case–control study based on the cross-sectional data was designed. Those with BMI ≥28 kg/m2 were included as the case group. The age- and sex-matched controls were selected from those with BMI <24 kg/m2. Unconditional logistic models were used to determine the association of SNPs with obesity. Additive interaction was evaluated by calculating relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), attributable proportion due to interaction (AP), and synergy index (SI). Results: A total of 322 cases and 643 controls were included. After adjustment, allele C of rs17782313 was significantly associated with obesity (additive model, OR = 1.52, 95%CI: 1.18–1.96) in Yi people. A similar association was found in allele A of rs12970134 (additive model, OR = 1.45, 95%CI: 1.13–1.89). Yi rural-to-urban migrants were found at 2.59-fold (95%CI: 1.70–3.95) higher odds of obesity than Yi farmers. Additive interactions were found between the two SNPs and rural-to-urban migration (rs17782313: AP = 0.65, 95%CI: 0.22–1.09; rs12970134: AP = 0.59, 95%CI: 0.02–1.17). Conclusion:MC4R gene polymorphisms positively interacted with the urbanized living environment on obesity in Yi people. The effect of the MC4R gene on obesity was modified by the living environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Wang
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Li Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Shaoping Wan
- Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Wuli Yihuo
- Puge Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Liangshan, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Xichang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Liangshan, China
| | - Huijing He
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Xichang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Liangshan, China
| | - Zhengping Yong
- Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Guangliang Shan
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Guangliang Shan,
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Fatima MT, Ahmed I, Fakhro KA, Akil ASA. Melanocortin-4 receptor complexity in energy homeostasis,obesity and drug development strategies. Diabetes Obes Metab 2022; 24:583-598. [PMID: 34882941 PMCID: PMC9302617 DOI: 10.1111/dom.14618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) has been critically investigated for the past two decades, and novel findings regarding MC4R signalling and its potential exploitation in weight loss therapy have lately been emphasized. An association between MC4R and obesity is well established, with disease-causing mutations affecting 1% to 6% of obese patients. More than 200 MC4R variants have been reported, although conflicting results as to their effects have been found in different cohorts. Most notably, some MC4R gain-of-function variants seem to rescue obesity and related complications via specific pathways such as beta-arrestin (ß-arrestin) recruitment. Broadly speaking, however, dysfunctional MC4R dysregulates satiety and induces hyperphagia. The picture at the mechanistic level is complicated as, in addition to the canonical G stimulatory pathway, the ß-arrestin signalling pathway and ions (particularly calcium) seem to interact with MC4R signalling to contribute to or alleviate obesity pathogenesis. Thus, the overall complexity of the MC4R signalling spectra has broadened considerably, indicating there is great potential for the development of new drugs to manage obesity and its related complications. Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone is the major endogenous MC4R agonist, but structure-based ligand discovery studies have identified possible superior and selective agonists that can improve MC4R function. However, some of these agonists characterized in vitro and in vivo confer adverse effects in patients, as demonstrated in clinical trials. In this review, we provide a comprehensive insight into the genetics, function and regulation of MC4R and its contribution to obesity. We also outline new approaches in drug development and emerging drug candidates to treat obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Munazza Tamkeen Fatima
- Department of Human Genetics, Translational Medicine DivisionResearch Branch, Sidra MedicineDohaQatar
| | - Ikhlak Ahmed
- Department of Human Genetics, Translational Medicine DivisionResearch Branch, Sidra MedicineDohaQatar
| | - Khalid Adnan Fakhro
- Department of Human Genetics, Translational Medicine DivisionResearch Branch, Sidra MedicineDohaQatar
- Department of Genetic MedicineWeill Cornell MedicineDohaQatar
- College of Health and Life SciencesHamad Bin Khalifa UniversityDohaQatar
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ahluwalia MK. Nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics-A personalized approach to nutrition. ADVANCES IN GENETICS 2021; 108:277-340. [PMID: 34844714 DOI: 10.1016/bs.adgen.2021.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of non-communicable diseases has been on an upward trajectory for some time and this puts an enormous burden on the healthcare expenditure. Lifestyle modifications including dietary interventions hold an immense promise to manage and prevent these diseases. Recent advances in genomic research provide evidence that focussing these efforts on individual variations in abilities to metabolize nutrients (nutrigenetics) and exploring the role of dietary compounds on gene expression (nutrigenomics and nutri-epigenomics) can lead to more meaningful personalized dietary strategies to promote optimal health. This chapter aims to provide examples on these gene-diet interactions at multiple levels to support the need of embedding targeted dietary interventions as a way forward to prevent, avoid and manage diseases.
Collapse
|
15
|
Malhotra S, Sivasubramanian R, Srivastava G. Evaluation and Management of Early Onset Genetic Obesity in Childhood. J Pediatr Genet 2021; 10:194-204. [PMID: 34504723 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1731035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
One in five children and adolescents in the United States are diagnosed with obesity and nearly 6% of them are being classified under the severe obesity category. With over 7% of severe obesity being attributed to genetic disorders, in this review we aim to focus on monogenic and syndromic obesity: its etiology, wide spectrum of clinical presentation, criticalness of early identification, and limited management options. Advanced genetic testing methods including microarray and whole genome sequencing are imperative to identify the spectrum of mutations and develop targeted treatment strategies including personalized multidisciplinary care, use of investigational drugs, and explore surgical options in this unique subset of severe pediatric obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonali Malhotra
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Ramya Sivasubramanian
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Gitanjali Srivastava
- Department of Medicine; Department of Pediatrics; Department of Surgery; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhang H, Chen LN, Yang D, Mao C, Shen Q, Feng W, Shen DD, Dai A, Xie S, Zhou Y, Qin J, Sun JP, Scharf DH, Hou T, Zhou T, Wang MW, Zhang Y. Structural insights into ligand recognition and activation of the melanocortin-4 receptor. Cell Res 2021; 31:1163-1175. [PMID: 34433901 DOI: 10.1038/s41422-021-00552-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) plays a central role in the regulation of energy homeostasis. Its high sequence similarity to other MC receptor family members, low agonist selectivity and the lack of structural information concerning MC4R-specific activation have hampered the development of MC4R-seletive therapeutics to treat obesity. Here, we report four high-resolution structures of full-length MC4R in complex with the heterotrimeric Gs protein stimulated by the endogenous peptide ligand α-MSH, FDA-approved drugs afamelanotide (Scenesse™) and bremelanotide (Vyleesi™), and a selective small-molecule ligand THIQ, respectively. Together with pharmacological studies, our results reveal the conserved binding mode of peptidic agonists, the distinctive molecular details of small-molecule agonist recognition underlying receptor subtype selectivity, and a distinct activation mechanism for MC4R, thereby offering new insights into G protein coupling. Our work may facilitate the discovery of selective therapeutic agents targeting MC4R.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huibing Zhang
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Li-Nan Chen
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dehua Yang
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,The National Center for Drug Screening, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chunyou Mao
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qingya Shen
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wenbo Feng
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan-Dan Shen
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Antao Dai
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,The National Center for Drug Screening, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shanshan Xie
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Institute of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Institute of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yan Zhou
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,The National Center for Drug Screening, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiao Qin
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jin-Peng Sun
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University; Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Daniel H Scharf
- Department of Microbiology and The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tingjun Hou
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tianhua Zhou
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Institute of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Institute of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ming-Wei Wang
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China. .,The National Center for Drug Screening, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China. .,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China. .,School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. .,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China. .,Department of Pharmacology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China. .,Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China. .,MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China. .,Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kaczmarek I, Suchý T, Prömel S, Schöneberg T, Liebscher I, Thor D. The relevance of adhesion G protein-coupled receptors in metabolic functions. Biol Chem 2021; 403:195-209. [PMID: 34218541 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2021-0146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) modulate a variety of physiological functions and have been proven to be outstanding drug targets. However, approximately one-third of all non-olfactory GPCRs are still orphans in respect to their signal transduction and physiological functions. Receptors of the class of Adhesion GPCRs (aGPCRs) are among these orphan receptors. They are characterized by unique features in their structure and tissue-specific expression, which yields them interesting candidates for deorphanization and testing as potential therapeutic targets. Capable of G-protein coupling and non-G protein-mediated function, aGPCRs may extend our repertoire of influencing physiological function. Besides their described significance in the immune and central nervous systems, growing evidence indicates a high importance of these receptors in metabolic tissue. RNAseq analyses revealed high expression of several aGPCRs in pancreatic islets, adipose tissue, liver, and intestine but also in neurons governing food intake. In this review, we focus on aGPCRs and their function in regulating metabolic pathways. Based on current knowledge, this receptor class represents high potential for future pharmacological approaches addressing obesity and other metabolic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabell Kaczmarek
- Rudolf Schönheimer Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Leipzig University, Johannisallee 30, D-04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Tomáš Suchý
- Rudolf Schönheimer Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Leipzig University, Johannisallee 30, D-04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Simone Prömel
- Rudolf Schönheimer Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Leipzig University, Johannisallee 30, D-04103 Leipzig, Germany
- Institute of Cell Biology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Torsten Schöneberg
- Rudolf Schönheimer Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Leipzig University, Johannisallee 30, D-04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ines Liebscher
- Rudolf Schönheimer Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Leipzig University, Johannisallee 30, D-04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Doreen Thor
- Rudolf Schönheimer Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Leipzig University, Johannisallee 30, D-04103 Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Durek T, Kaas Q, White AM, Weidmann J, Fuaad AA, Cheneval O, Schroeder CI, de Veer SJ, Dellsén A, Österlund T, Larsson N, Knerr L, Bauer U, Plowright AT, Craik DJ. Melanocortin 1 Receptor Agonists Based on a Bivalent, Bicyclic Peptide Framework. J Med Chem 2021; 64:9906-9915. [PMID: 34197114 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We have designed a new class of highly potent bivalent melanocortin receptor ligands based on the nature-derived bicyclic peptide sunflower trypsin inhibitor 1 (SFTI-1). Incorporation of melanotropin pharmacophores in each of the two turn regions of SFTI-1 resulted in substantial gains in agonist activity particularly at human melanocortin receptors 1 and 3 (hMC1R/hMC3R) compared to monovalent analogues. In in vitro binding and functional assays, the most potent molecule, compound 6, displayed low picomolar agonist activity at hMC1R (pEC50 > 10.3; EC50 < 50 pM; pKi: 10.16 ± 0.04; Ki: 69 ± 5 pM) and is at least 30-fold more selective for this receptor than for hMC3R, hMC4R, or hMC5R. The results are discussed in the context of structural homology models of hMCRs in complex with the developed bivalent ligands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Durek
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Quentin Kaas
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Andrew M White
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Joachim Weidmann
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Abdullah Ahmad Fuaad
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Olivier Cheneval
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Christina I Schroeder
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Simon J de Veer
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Anita Dellsén
- Mechanistic Biology & Profiling, Discovery Sciences, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg 43183, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Torben Österlund
- Discovery Biology, Discovery Sciences, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg 43183, Mölndal, Sweden.,Drug Safety and Metabolism, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg 43183, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Niklas Larsson
- Discovery Biology, Discovery Sciences, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg 43183, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Laurent Knerr
- Medicinal Chemistry, Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg 43183, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Udo Bauer
- Medicinal Chemistry, Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg 43183, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Alleyn T Plowright
- Medicinal Chemistry, Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg 43183, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wade KH, Lam BYH, Melvin A, Pan W, Corbin LJ, Hughes DA, Rainbow K, Chen JH, Duckett K, Liu X, Mokrosiński J, Mörseburg A, Neaves S, Williamson A, Zhang C, Farooqi IS, Yeo GSH, Timpson NJ, O'Rahilly S. Loss-of-function mutations in the melanocortin 4 receptor in a UK birth cohort. Nat Med 2021; 27:1088-1096. [PMID: 34045736 PMCID: PMC7611835 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-021-01349-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in the melanocortin 4 receptor gene (MC4R) are associated with obesity but little is known about the prevalence and impact of such mutations throughout human growth and development. We examined the MC4R coding sequence in 5,724 participants from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, functionally characterized all nonsynonymous MC4R variants and examined their association with anthropometric phenotypes from childhood to early adulthood. The frequency of heterozygous loss-of-function (LoF) mutations in MC4R was ~1 in 337 (0.30%), considerably higher than previous estimates. At age 18 years, mean differences in body weight, body mass index and fat mass between carriers and noncarriers of LoF mutations were 17.76 kg (95% CI 9.41, 26.10), 4.84 kg m-2 (95% CI 2.19, 7.49) and 14.78 kg (95% CI 8.56, 20.99), respectively. MC4R LoF mutations may be more common than previously reported and carriers of such variants may enter adult life with a substantial burden of excess adiposity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlin H Wade
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Integrative Epidemiology Unit (IEU), University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Brian Y H Lam
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Audrey Melvin
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Warren Pan
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Laura J Corbin
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Integrative Epidemiology Unit (IEU), University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - David A Hughes
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Integrative Epidemiology Unit (IEU), University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Kara Rainbow
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jian-Hua Chen
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Katie Duckett
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Xiaoming Liu
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jacek Mokrosiński
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Alexander Mörseburg
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sam Neaves
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Integrative Epidemiology Unit (IEU), University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Alice Williamson
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Chen Zhang
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - I Sadaf Farooqi
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Giles S H Yeo
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nicholas J Timpson
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Integrative Epidemiology Unit (IEU), University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Stephen O'Rahilly
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Israeli H, Degtjarik O, Fierro F, Chunilal V, Gill AK, Roth NJ, Botta J, Prabahar V, Peleg Y, Chan LF, Ben-Zvi D, McCormick PJ, Niv MY, Shalev-Benami M. Structure reveals the activation mechanism of the MC4 receptor to initiate satiation signaling. Science 2021; 372:808-814. [PMID: 33858992 DOI: 10.1126/science.abf7958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Obesity is a global epidemic that causes morbidity and impaired quality of life. The melanocortin receptor 4 (MC4R) is at the crux of appetite, energy homeostasis, and body-weight control in the central nervous system and is a prime target for anti-obesity drugs. Here, we present the cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structure of the human MC4R-Gs signaling complex bound to the agonist setmelanotide, a cyclic peptide recently approved for the treatment of obesity. The work reveals the mechanism of MC4R activation, highlighting a molecular switch that initiates satiation signaling. In addition, our findings indicate that calcium (Ca2+) is required for agonist, but not antagonist, efficacy. These results fill a gap in the understanding of MC4R activation and could guide the design of future weight-management drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hadar Israeli
- Department of Chemical and Structural Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Oksana Degtjarik
- Department of Chemical and Structural Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Fabrizio Fierro
- The Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
- The Fritz Haber Center for Molecular Dynamics, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Vidicha Chunilal
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary, University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, UK
| | - Amandeep Kaur Gill
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary, University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, UK
| | - Nicolas J Roth
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary, University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, UK
| | - Joaquin Botta
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary, University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, UK
| | - Vadivel Prabahar
- Department of Chemical and Structural Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Yoav Peleg
- Structural Proteomics Unit (SPU), Life Sciences Core Facilities (LSCF), Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Li F Chan
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary, University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, UK
| | - Danny Ben-Zvi
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Peter J McCormick
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary, University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, UK.
| | - Masha Y Niv
- The Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel.
- The Fritz Haber Center for Molecular Dynamics, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Moran Shalev-Benami
- Department of Chemical and Structural Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Targeting Energy Expenditure-Drugs for Obesity Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14050435. [PMID: 34066399 PMCID: PMC8148206 DOI: 10.3390/ph14050435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity and overweight are associated with lethal diseases. In this context, obese and overweight individuals infected by COVID-19 are at greater risk of dying. Obesity is treated by three main pharmaceutical approaches, namely suppressing appetite, reducing energy intake by impairing absorption, and increasing energy expenditure. Most compounds used for the latter were first envisaged for other medical uses. However, several candidates are now being developed explicitly for targeting obesity by increasing energy expenditure. This review analyzes the compounds that show anti-obesity activity exerted through the energy expenditure pathway. They are classified on the basis of their development status: FDA-approved, Withdrawn, Clinical Trials, and Under Development. The chemical nature, target, mechanisms of action, and description of the current stage of development are described for each one.
Collapse
|
22
|
Trevellin E, Granzotto M, Host C, Grisan F, De Stefani D, Grinzato A, Lefkimmiatis K, Pagano C, Rizzuto R, Vettor R. A Novel Loss of Function Melanocortin-4-Receptor Mutation (MC4R-F313Sfs*29) in Morbid Obesity. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:736-749. [PMID: 33247923 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Melanocortin receptor-4 (MC4R) gene mutations are associated with early-onset severe obesity, and the identification of potential pathological variants is crucial for the clinical management of patients with obesity. OBJECTIVE To explore whether and how a novel heterozygous MC4R variant (MC4R-F313Sfs*29), identified in a young boy (body mass index [BMI] 38.8 kg/m2) during a mutation analysis conducted in a cohort of patients with obesity, plays a determinant pathophysiological role in the obesity development. DESIGN SETTING AND PATIENTS The genetic screening was carried out in a total of 209 unrelated patients with obesity (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2). Structural and functional characterization of the F313Sfs*29-mutated MC4R was performed using computational approaches and in vitro, using HEK293 cells transfected with genetically encoded biosensors for cAMP and Ca2+. RESULTS The F313Sfs*29 was the only variant identified. In vitro experiments showed that HEK293 cells transfected with the mutated form of MC4R did not increase intracellular cAMP or Ca2+ levels after stimulation with a specific agonist in comparison with HEK293 cells transfected with the wild type form of MC4R (∆R/R0 = -90% ± 8%; P < 0.001). In silico modeling showed that the F313Sfs*29 mutation causes a major reorganization in the cytosolic domain of MC4R, thus reducing the affinity of the putative GalphaS binding site. CONCLUSIONS The newly discovered F313Sfs*29 variant of MC4R may be involved in the impairment of α-MSH-induced cAMP and Ca2+ signaling, blunting intracellular G protein-mediated signal transduction. This alteration might have led to the dysregulation of satiety signaling, resulting in hyperphagia and early onset of obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marnie Granzotto
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Cristina Host
- Department of Reproduction and Growth, University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesca Grisan
- Foundation for Advanced Biomedical Research, Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Diego De Stefani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Konstantinos Lefkimmiatis
- Foundation for Advanced Biomedical Research, Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Claudio Pagano
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Rosario Rizzuto
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Roberto Vettor
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Gava FN, da Silva AA, Dai X, Harmancey R, Ashraf S, Omoto ACM, Salgado MC, Moak SP, Li X, Hall JE, do Carmo JM. Restoration of Cardiac Function After Myocardial Infarction by Long-Term Activation of the CNS Leptin-Melanocortin System. JACC Basic Transl Sci 2021; 6:55-70. [PMID: 33532666 PMCID: PMC7838051 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2020.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Leptin protects against progression to heart failure after myocardial infarction. This beneficial effect requires activation of the brain melanocortin system. Stimulation of brain MC4R recapitulates the cardiac protective effects of leptin. Leptin-MC4R activation improves cardiac substrate oxidation and mitochondrial function. It also improves Ca2+ coupling and contractile function in viable cardiomyocytes after MI.
Heart failure has a high mortality rate, and current therapies offer limited benefits. The authors demonstrate that activation of the central nervous system leptin-melanocortin pathway confers remarkable protection against progressive heart failure following severe myocardial infarction. The beneficial cardiac-protective actions of leptin require activation of brain melanocortin-4 receptors and elicit improvements in cardiac substrate oxidation, cardiomyocyte contractility, Ca2+ coupling, and mitochondrial efficiency. These findings highlight a potentially novel therapeutic approach for myocardial infarction and heart failure.
Collapse
Key Words
- AMPK, adenosine monophosphate–activated protein kinase
- BP, blood pressure
- CNS, central nervous system
- HF, heart failure
- HR, heart rate
- ICV, intracerebroventricular
- LV, left ventricular
- MC4R
- MC4R, melanocortin-4 receptor
- MI, myocardial infarction
- MTII, melanotan II
- appetite
- blood pressure
- cardiac metabolism
- heart failure
- mTOR, mechanistic target of rapamycin
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio N Gava
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA.,Department of Veterinary Clinics, Londrina State University, Parana, Brazil
| | - Alexandre A da Silva
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Xuemei Dai
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Romain Harmancey
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Sadia Ashraf
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Ana C M Omoto
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA.,Department of Physiology, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mateus C Salgado
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA.,Centro Universitário Barão de Mauá, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sydney P Moak
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Xuan Li
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - John E Hall
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Jussara M do Carmo
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Martin C, Gimenez LE, Williams SY, Jing Y, Wu Y, Hollanders C, Van der Poorten O, Gonzalez S, Van Holsbeeck K, Previti S, Lamouroux A, Zhao S, Tourwé D, Stevens RC, Cone RD, Ballet S. Structure-Based Design of Melanocortin 4 Receptor Ligands Based on the SHU-9119-hMC4R Cocrystal Structure†. J Med Chem 2020; 64:357-369. [PMID: 33190475 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The melanocortin receptors (MC1R-MC5R) belong to class A G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and are known to have receptor-specific roles in normal and diseased states. Selectivity for MC4R is of particular interest due to its involvement in various metabolic disorders, including obesity, feeding regulation, and sexual dysfunctions. To further improve the potency and selectivity of MC4R (ant)agonist peptide ligands, we designed and synthesized a series of cyclic peptides based on the recent crystal structure of MC4R in complex with the well-characterized antagonist SHU-9119 (Ac-Nle4-c[Asp5-His6-DNal(2')7-Arg8-Trp9-Lys10]-NH2). These analogues were pharmacologically characterized in vitro, giving key insights into exploiting binding site subpockets to deliver more selective ligands. More specifically, the side chains of the Nle4, DNal(2')7, and Trp9 residues in SHU-9119, as well as the amide linkage between the Asp5 and Lys10 side chains, were found to represent structural features engaging a hMC4R/hMC3R selectivity switch.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Martin
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luis E Gimenez
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Savannah Y Williams
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Yu Jing
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Ren Building, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Pudong, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Yiran Wu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Ren Building, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Pudong, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Charlie Hollanders
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Olivier Van der Poorten
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Simon Gonzalez
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kevin Van Holsbeeck
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Santo Previti
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Arthur Lamouroux
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Suwen Zhao
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Ren Building, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Pudong, Shanghai 201210, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Pudong, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Dirk Tourwé
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Raymond C Stevens
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Ren Building, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Pudong, Shanghai 201210, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Pudong, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Roger D Cone
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Steven Ballet
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Yang Y, Xu Y. The central melanocortin system and human obesity. J Mol Cell Biol 2020; 12:785-797. [PMID: 32976556 PMCID: PMC7816681 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjaa048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of obesity and the associated comorbidities highlight the importance of understanding the regulation of energy homeostasis. The central melanocortin system plays a critical role in controlling body weight balance. Melanocortin neurons sense and integrate the neuronal and hormonal signals, and then send regulatory projections, releasing anorexigenic or orexigenic melanocortin neuropeptides, to downstream neurons to regulate the food intake and energy expenditure. This review summarizes the latest progress in our understanding of the role of the melanocortin pathway in energy homeostasis. We also review the advances in the identification of human genetic variants that cause obesity via mechanisms that affect the central melanocortin system, which have provided rational targets for treatment of genetically susceptible patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongjie Yang
- USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yong Xu
- USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Structural Complexity and Plasticity of Signaling Regulation at the Melanocortin-4 Receptor. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165728. [PMID: 32785054 PMCID: PMC7460885 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) is a class A G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), essential for regulation of appetite and metabolism. Pathogenic inactivating MC4R mutations are the most frequent cause of monogenic obesity, a growing medical and socioeconomic problem worldwide. The MC4R mediates either ligand-independent or ligand-dependent signaling. Agonists such as α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) induce anorexigenic effects, in contrast to the endogenous inverse agonist agouti-related peptide (AgRP), which causes orexigenic effects by suppressing high basal signaling activity. Agonist action triggers the binding of different subtypes of G proteins and arrestins, leading to concomitant induction of diverse intracellular signaling cascades. An increasing number of experimental studies have unraveled molecular properties and mechanisms of MC4R signal transduction related to physiological and pathophysiological aspects. In addition, the MC4R crystal structure was recently determined at 2.75 Å resolution in an inactive state bound with a peptide antagonist. Underpinned by structural homology models of MC4R complexes simulating a presumably active-state conformation compared to the structure of the inactive state, we here briefly summarize the current understanding and key players involved in the MC4R switching process between different activity states. Finally, these perspectives highlight the complexity and plasticity in MC4R signaling regulation and identify gaps in our current knowledge.
Collapse
|
27
|
The genetic polymorphisms of melanocortin-4 receptor gene are associated with carcass quality traits in a Chinese indigenous beef cattle breed. Res Vet Sci 2020; 132:202-206. [PMID: 32604043 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2020.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) was considered as an essential modifiers in feelings intake, the regulation of metabolism and body weight. This study aimed at identifying polymorphisms in MC4R gene that might associate with carcass quality traits in Chinese indigenous beef cattle breed. qPCR analysis showed that the MC4R gene was widely expressed in various tissues, with predominantly expression levels in heart. Three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified, including a mutation (g.85A > G) in 5'untranslated regions (UTR) and two mutations (g.927C > T and g.1069C > G) in exon 1. Based on the χ2 test, both g.927C > T and g.1069C > G loci fitted with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (P > .05). Population genetic analysis showed that except for g.85A > G, the other detected SNPs strongly affected the bovine back fat thickness and intramuscular fat content (P < .05). The individuals with Hap1/4 diplotypes (ACC-ATG) were highly significantly associated with carcass quality traits than the other diplotypes (P < .01 or P < .05). Results indicated that the bovine MC4R gene polymorphisms were implicated as genetic markers of potential importance in marker-assisted selection (MAS) strategies to improve carcass quality in Chinese Qinchuan cattle.
Collapse
|
28
|
Wevrick R. Disentangling ingestive behavior-related phenotypes in Prader–Willi syndrome: Integrating information from nonclinical studies and clinical trials to better understand the pathophysiology of hyperphagia and obesity. Physiol Behav 2020; 219:112864. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2020.112864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
|
29
|
Hammad MM, Abu-Farha M, Hebbar P, Cherian P, Al Khairi I, Melhem M, Alkayal F, Alsmadi O, Thanaraj TA, Al-Mulla F, Abubaker J. MC4R Variant rs17782313 Associates With Increased Levels of DNAJC27, Ghrelin, and Visfatin and Correlates With Obesity and Hypertension in a Kuwaiti Cohort. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:437. [PMID: 32733386 PMCID: PMC7358550 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R), a notable component of the melanocortin system, regulates appetite, body weight, and energy homeostasis. Genome-wide association studies have identified several MC4R variants associated with adiposity; of these, rs17782313, which is associated with increased body mass index (BMI) and overeating behavior, is of particular interest. Another gene associated with increased adiposity in global genome-wide association studies is DNAJC27, a heat shock protein known to be elevated in obesity. The detailed mechanisms underlying the role of MC4R variants in the biological pathways underlying metabolic disorders are not well-understood. To address this, we assessed variations of rs17782313 in a cohort of 282 Arab individuals from Kuwait, who are deeply phenotyped for anthropometric and metabolic traits and various biomarkers, including DNAJC27. Association tests showed that the rs17782313_C allele was associated with BMI and DNAJC27 levels. Increased levels of DNAJC27 reduced the MC4R-mediated formation of cAMP in MC4R ACTOne stable cells. In conclusion, this study demonstrated an association between the rs17782313 variant near MC4R and increased BMI and DNAJC27 levels and established a link between increased DNAJC27 levels and lower cAMP levels. We propose that regulation of MC4R activity by DNAJC27 enhances appetite through its effect on cAMP, thereby regulating obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maha M. Hammad
- Research Division, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Mohamed Abu-Farha
- Research Division, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Prashantha Hebbar
- Research Division, Department of Genetics and Bioinformatics, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Preethi Cherian
- Research Division, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Irina Al Khairi
- Research Division, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Motasem Melhem
- Research Division, Department of Genetics and Bioinformatics, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Fadi Alkayal
- Research Division, Department of Genetics and Bioinformatics, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Thangavel Alphonse Thanaraj
- Research Division, Department of Genetics and Bioinformatics, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
- *Correspondence: Thangavel Alphonse Thanaraj
| | - Fahd Al-Mulla
- Research Division, Department of Genetics and Bioinformatics, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
- Fahd Al-Mulla
| | - Jehad Abubaker
- Research Division, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
- Jehad Abubaker
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Eneli I, Xu J, Webster M, McCagg A, Van Der Ploeg L, Garfield AS, Estrada E. Tracing the effect of the melanocortin-4 receptor pathway in obesity: study design and methodology of the TEMPO registry. APPLICATION OF CLINICAL GENETICS 2019; 12:87-93. [PMID: 31239751 PMCID: PMC6556479 DOI: 10.2147/tacg.s199092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: The hypothalamic melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) pathway, a component of the central melanocortin pathway, regulates energy balance and satiety. Rare genetic disorders of obesity may be characterized by impaired MC4R pathway signaling, which results in early-onset severe obesity and insatiable hunger (hyperphagia). The TEMPO registry (NCT03479437) is a voluntary, prospective, open-ended registry of individuals with rare genetic disorders of obesity due to mutations in genes within the MC4R pathway who have early-onset severe obesity. The objective of the TEMPO registry is to evaluate the burden of rare genetic disorders of obesity on individuals, their parents/caregivers, health care providers, and the health care system. Patients and methods: Individuals with rare genetic disorders of obesity (adults aged ≥18 years and children and adolescents aged from 2 to 17 years) will be referred by their health care providers or by a genetic screening study. Individuals must meet age- and sex-specific body mass index values that define the clinical criteria for severe obesity and carry selected variants in MC4R or in one of several genes upstream or downstream of the MC4R. Online surveys will be completed by the individual, parent/caregiver, and health care provider at baseline and annually thereafter and will collect data on demographics, results of genetic testing, medical/family history, disease characteristics, resource utilization, eating habits/hunger episodes, social and emotional impacts, and interest in future clinical trial participation. Conclusions: The TEMPO registry will provide insights into the overall course and disease burden for individuals with rare genetic disorders of obesity. Health care providers may use this resource to improve the identification, diagnosis, and treatment of individuals with rare forms of genetic obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ihuoma Eneli
- Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jinyu Xu
- Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Matthew Webster
- Department of Medical Communications, Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amy McCagg
- Department of Medical Communications, Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lex Van Der Ploeg
- Department of Medical Communications, Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alastair S Garfield
- Department of Medical Communications, Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Estrada
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Fleming KA, Freeman KT, Powers MD, Santos RG, Debevec G, Giulianotti MA, Houghten RA, Doering SR, Pinilla C, Haskell-Luevano C. Discovery of Polypharmacological Melanocortin-3 and -4 Receptor Probes and Identification of a 100-Fold Selective nM MC3R Agonist versus a μM MC4R Partial Agonist. J Med Chem 2019; 62:2738-2749. [PMID: 30741545 PMCID: PMC6463894 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The centrally expressed melanocortin-3 and melanocortin-4 receptors (MC3R and MC4R, respectively) are established targets to treat diseases of positive- and negative-energy homeostasis. We previously reported [ Doering , S. R. ; J. Med. Chem. 2017 , 60 , 4342 - 4357 ] mixture-based positional scanning approaches to identify dual MC3R agonist and MC4R antagonist tetrapeptides. Herein, 46 tetrapeptides were chosen for MC3R agonist screening selectivity profiles, synthesized, and pharmacologically characterized at the mouse melanocortin-1, -3, -4, and -5 receptors. Substitutions to the tetrapeptide template were selected solely based on MC3R agonist potency from the mixture-based screen. This study resulted in the discovery of compound 42 (Ac-Val-Gln-(pI)DPhe-DTic-NH2), a full MC3R agonist that is 100-fold selective for the MC3R over the μM MC4R partial agonist pharmacology. This compound represents a first-in-class MC3R selective agonist. This ligand will serve as a useful in vivo molecular probe for the investigation of the roles of the MC3R and MC4R in diseases of dysregulated energy homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katlyn A. Fleming
- University of Minnesota, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Katie T. Freeman
- University of Minnesota, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Mike D. Powers
- University of Minnesota, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Radleigh G. Santos
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34987, United States
| | - Ginamarie Debevec
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34987, United States
| | - Marc A. Giulianotti
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34987, United States
| | - Richard A. Houghten
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34987, United States
| | - Skye R. Doering
- University of Minnesota, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Clemencia Pinilla
- To whom correspondence about the use of positional scanning libraries should be addressed at at Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies
| | - Carrie Haskell-Luevano
- University of Minnesota, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kühnen P, Krude H, Biebermann H. Melanocortin-4 Receptor Signalling: Importance for Weight Regulation and Obesity Treatment. Trends Mol Med 2019; 25:136-148. [PMID: 30642682 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2018.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) - embedded in the leptin-melanocortin pathway - is activated by proopiomelanocortin (POMC)-derived neuropeptides such as α- and β-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) and plays an important role in hypothalamic body-weight regulation. Accordingly, MC4R is a potential drug target to combat obesity. Previous attempts to develop MC4R agonists failed due to ineffectiveness or severe adverse events. Recently, a new generation of MC4R ligands was developed. Specifically, setmelanotide was found to be effective by inducing biased signalling of the MC4R and thereby reducing feelings of hunger and leading to substantial weight loss in patients with POMC or leptin receptor deficiency. This new potential pharmacological treatment option could be beneficial for further groups of obese patients with defects in the leptin-melanocortin signalling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Kühnen
- Institute for Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Heiko Krude
- Institute for Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Heike Biebermann
- Institute for Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Heyder N, Kleinau G, Szczepek M, Kwiatkowski D, Speck D, Soletto L, Cerdá-Reverter JM, Krude H, Kühnen P, Biebermann H, Scheerer P. Signal Transduction and Pathogenic Modifications at the Melanocortin-4 Receptor: A Structural Perspective. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:515. [PMID: 31417496 PMCID: PMC6685040 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) can be endogenously activated by binding of melanocyte-stimulating hormones (MSH), which mediates anorexigenic effects. In contrast, the agouti-related peptide (AgRP) acts as an endogenous inverse agonist and suppresses ligand-independent basal signaling activity (orexigenic effects). Binding of ligands to MC4R leads to the activation of different G-protein subtypes or arrestin and concomitant signaling pathways. This receptor is a key protein in the hypothalamic regulation of food intake and energy expenditure and naturally-occurring inactivating MC4R variants are the most frequent cause of monogenic obesity. In general, obesity is a growing problem on a global scale and is of social, medical, and economic relevance. A significant goal is to develop optimized pharmacological tools targeting MC4R without adverse effects. To date, this has not been achieved because of inter alia non-selective ligands across the five functionally different MCR subtypes (MC1-5R). This motivates further investigation of (i) the three-dimensional MC4R structure, (ii) binding mechanisms of various ligands, and (iii) the molecular transfer process of signal transduction, with the aim of understanding how structural features are linked with functional-physiological aspects. Unfortunately, experimentally elucidated structural information is not yet available for the MC receptors, a group of class A G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs). We, therefore, generated MC4R homology models and complexes with interacting partners to describe approximate structural properties associated with signaling mechanisms. In addition, molecular insights from pathogenic mutations were incorporated to discriminate more precisely their individual malfunction of the signal transfer mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Heyder
- Group Protein X-ray Crystallography and Signal Transduction, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gunnar Kleinau
- Group Protein X-ray Crystallography and Signal Transduction, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- *Correspondence: Gunnar Kleinau
| | - Michal Szczepek
- Group Protein X-ray Crystallography and Signal Transduction, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dennis Kwiatkowski
- Group Protein X-ray Crystallography and Signal Transduction, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - David Speck
- Group Protein X-ray Crystallography and Signal Transduction, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lucia Soletto
- Departamento de Fisiología de Peces y Biotecnología, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Instituto de Acuicultura Torre de la Sal, Ribera de Cabanes, Spain
| | - José Miguel Cerdá-Reverter
- Departamento de Fisiología de Peces y Biotecnología, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Instituto de Acuicultura Torre de la Sal, Ribera de Cabanes, Spain
| | - Heiko Krude
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter Kühnen
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Heike Biebermann
- Institute of Experimental Pediatric Endocrinology, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Patrick Scheerer
- Group Protein X-ray Crystallography and Signal Transduction, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Patrick Scheerer
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Matharu N, Rattanasopha S, Tamura S, Maliskova L, Wang Y, Bernard A, Hardin A, Eckalbar WL, Vaisse C, Ahituv N. CRISPR-mediated activation of a promoter or enhancer rescues obesity caused by haploinsufficiency. Science 2018; 363:science.aau0629. [PMID: 30545847 DOI: 10.1126/science.aau0629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
A wide range of human diseases result from haploinsufficiency, where the function of one of the two gene copies is lost. Here, we targeted the remaining functional copy of a haploinsufficient gene using CRISPR-mediated activation (CRISPRa) in Sim1 and Mc4r heterozygous mouse models to rescue their obesity phenotype. Transgenic-based CRISPRa targeting of the Sim1 promoter or its distant hypothalamic enhancer up-regulated its expression from the endogenous functional allele in a tissue-specific manner, rescuing the obesity phenotype in Sim1 heterozygous mice. To evaluate the therapeutic potential of CRISPRa, we injected CRISPRa-recombinant adeno-associated virus into the hypothalamus, which led to reversal of the obesity phenotype in Sim1 and Mc4r haploinsufficient mice. Our results suggest that endogenous gene up-regulation could be a potential strategy to treat altered gene dosage diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Navneet Matharu
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Institute for Human Genetics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Sawitree Rattanasopha
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Institute for Human Genetics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Doctor of Philosophy Program in Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Serena Tamura
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Institute for Human Genetics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Lenka Maliskova
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Institute for Human Genetics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Yi Wang
- Diabetes Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Adelaide Bernard
- Diabetes Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Aaron Hardin
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Institute for Human Genetics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Walter L Eckalbar
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Institute for Human Genetics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Christian Vaisse
- Diabetes Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Nadav Ahituv
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA. .,Institute for Human Genetics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Janvier S, De Spiegeleer B, Vanhee C, Deconinck E. Falsification of biotechnology drugs: current dangers and/or future disasters? J Pharm Biomed Anal 2018; 161:175-191. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2018.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Revised: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
36
|
Fleming KA, Freeman KT, Ericson MD, Haskell-Luevano C. Synergistic Multiresidue Substitutions of a Macrocyclic c[Pro-Arg-Phe-Phe-Asn-Ala-Phe-dPro] Agouti-Related Protein (AGRP) Scaffold Yield Potent and >600-Fold MC4R versus MC3R Selective Melanocortin Receptor Antagonists. J Med Chem 2018; 61:7729-7740. [PMID: 30035543 PMCID: PMC6174881 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b00684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Antagonist ligands of the melanocortin-3 and -4 receptors (MC3R, MC4R), including agouti-related protein (AGRP), are postulated to be targets for the treatment of diseases of negative energy balance. Previous studies reported the macrocyclic MC3R/MC4R antagonist c[Pro1-Arg2-Phe3-Phe4-Asn5-Ala6-Phe7-dPro8], which is 250-fold less potent at the mouse (m) mMC3R and 3-fold less potent at the mMC4R than AGRP. Previous studies explored the structure-activity relationships around individual positions in this template. Herein, a multiresidue substitution strategy is utilized, combining the lead sequence with hPhe4, Dap5, Arg5, Ser6, and Nle7 substitutions previously reported. Two compounds from this study (16, 20) contain an hPhe4/Ser6/Nle7 substitution pattern, are 3-6-fold more potent than AGRP at the mMC4R and are 600-800-fold selective for the mMC4R over the mMC3R. Another lead compound (21), possessing the hPhe4/Arg5 substitutions, is only 5-fold less potent than AGRP at the mMC3R and is equipotent to AGRP at the mMC4R.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katlyn A. Fleming
- University of Minnesota, Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Translation Neuroscience, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Katie T. Freeman
- University of Minnesota, Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Translation Neuroscience, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Mark D. Ericson
- University of Minnesota, Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Translation Neuroscience, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Carrie Haskell-Luevano
- University of Minnesota, Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Translation Neuroscience, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Grandone A, Di Sessa A, Umano GR, Toraldo R, Miraglia Del Giudice E. New treatment modalities for obesity. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018; 32:535-549. [PMID: 30086873 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2018.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The treatment of childhood obesity represents a greater challenge for pediatricians. To date, it is multidisciplinary, including behavioral, dietary, pharmacological, and surgical options. Given the limited efficacy of available treatments, scientific research on finding new solutions is very active. Several drugs comprising Metformin, Glucagon-like peptide- 1 receptor agonists, Naltrexone-bupropion, Phentermine-Topiramate, and Lorcaserin have been studied as pediatric antiobesity agents. Findings from clinical trials showed a modest but significant effect of these drugs on weight loss, but long-term studies are needed to better define their exact role. Bariatric surgery is also promising for extremely obese adolescents. Moreover, a novel approach to treat obesity might be represented by compounds inducing browning of white adipose tissue, a complex process involved in body energy homeostasis, but at present evidence in humans is lacking. We aimed to review the current knowledge regarding the available new options for pediatric obesity treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Grandone
- Department of Woman, Child and of General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Via L. De Crecchio, 4, 80138, Naples, Italy.
| | - A Di Sessa
- Department of Woman, Child and of General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Via L. De Crecchio, 4, 80138, Naples, Italy.
| | - G R Umano
- Department of Woman, Child and of General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Via L. De Crecchio, 4, 80138, Naples, Italy.
| | - R Toraldo
- Department of Woman, Child and of General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Via L. De Crecchio, 4, 80138, Naples, Italy.
| | - E Miraglia Del Giudice
- Department of Woman, Child and of General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Via L. De Crecchio, 4, 80138, Naples, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Saleh N, Kleinau G, Heyder N, Clark T, Hildebrand PW, Scheerer P. Binding, Thermodynamics, and Selectivity of a Non-peptide Antagonist to the Melanocortin-4 Receptor. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:560. [PMID: 29910730 PMCID: PMC5992272 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) is a potential drug target for treatment of obesity, anxiety, depression, and sexual dysfunction. Crystal structures for MC4R are not yet available, which has hindered successful structure-based drug design. Using microsecond-scale molecular-dynamics simulations, we have investigated selective binding of the non-peptide antagonist MCL0129 to a homology model of human MC4R (hMC4R). This approach revealed that, at the end of a multi-step binding process, MCL0129 spontaneously adopts a binding mode in which it blocks the agonistic-binding site. This binding mode was confirmed in subsequent metadynamics simulations, which gave an affinity for human hMC4R that matches the experimentally determined value. Extending our simulations of MCL0129 binding to hMC1R and hMC3R, we find that receptor subtype selectivity for hMC4R depends on few amino acids located in various structural elements of the receptor. These insights may support rational drug design targeting the melanocortin systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noureldin Saleh
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Berlin, Germany.,Computational Modelling and Dynamics of Molecular Complexes, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gunnar Kleinau
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Berlin, Germany.,Group Protein X-ray Crystallography and Signal Transduction, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nicolas Heyder
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Berlin, Germany.,Group Protein X-ray Crystallography and Signal Transduction, Berlin, Germany
| | - Timothy Clark
- Computer-Chemie-Centrum, Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Peter W Hildebrand
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Berlin, Germany.,Computational Modelling and Dynamics of Molecular Complexes, Berlin, Germany.,Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Patrick Scheerer
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Berlin, Germany.,Group Protein X-ray Crystallography and Signal Transduction, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|