1
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McNaught-Flores DA, Chen YC, Arias-Montaño JA, Panula P, Leurs R. Pharmacological characterization of the zebrafish Hrh2a histamine H 2 receptor. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 981:176870. [PMID: 39117262 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176870] [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: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
The zebrafish, Danio rerio, is a widely adopted in vivo model that conserves organs such as the liver, kidney, stomach, and brain, being, therefore, suitable for studying human diseases, drug discovery and toxicology. The brain aminergic systems are also conserved and the histamine H1, H2 and H3 receptors were previously cloned and identified in the zebrafish brain. Genome studies identified another putative H2 receptor (Hrh2) with ∼50% sequence identity with H2 receptor orthologs. In this study, we recombinantly expressed both zebrafish H2 receptor paralogs (hrh2a and hrh2b) and compared their pharmacology with the human H2 receptor ortholog. Our results showed that both zebrafish receptors conserve all the class A GPCR motifs. However, in contrast with the Hrh2a paralog, the Hrh2b does not possess all the amino acid residues shown to participate in histamine binding. The zebrafish Hrh2a receptor displays high affinity for [3H]-tiotidine with a binding profile for H2 receptor ligands similar to that of the human H2 receptor. The zebrafish Hrh2a receptor couples to GαS and Gαq/11 proteins, resulting in cAMP accumulation and activation of several reporter genes linked to the Gαq/11 pathway. Additionally, this receptor shows high constitutive activity, with histamine potency in the low nanomolar range for cAMP accumulation and the micromolar range for the activation of the NFAT response element. Moreover, dimaprit and amthamine seem to preferentially activate GαS over Gαq/11 proteins via the zebrafish Hrh2a receptor. These results can contribute to clarifying the functional roles of the H2 receptor in zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel A McNaught-Flores
- Amsterdam Institute for Molecules, Medicines, and Systems (AIMMS), Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yu-Chia Chen
- Department of Anatomy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jose-Antonio Arias-Montaño
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Zacatenco, 07360, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Pertti Panula
- Department of Anatomy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Rob Leurs
- Amsterdam Institute for Molecules, Medicines, and Systems (AIMMS), Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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2
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Zhang X, Liu G, Zhong YN, Zhang R, Yang CC, Niu C, Pu X, Sun J, Zhang T, Yang L, Zhang C, Li X, Shen X, Xiao P, Sun JP, Gong W. Structural basis of ligand recognition and activation of the histamine receptor family. Nat Commun 2024; 15:8296. [PMID: 39333117 PMCID: PMC11437213 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-52585-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Histamine is a biogenic amine that is critical in various physiological and pathophysiological processes, including but not limited to allergic reactions, wakefulness, gastric acid secretion and neurotransmission. Here, we determine 9 cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the 4 histamine receptors in complex with four different G protein subtypes, with endogenous or synthetic agonists bound. Inside the ligand pocket, we identify key motifs for the recognition of histamine, the distinct binding orientations of histamine and three subpockets that facilitate the design of specific ligands. In addition, we also identify key residues responsible for the selectivity of immethridine. Moreover, we reveal distinct structural features as determinants of Gq vs. Gs or Gs vs. Gi coupling differences among the histamine receptors. Our study provides a structural framework for understanding the ligand recognition and G protein coupling of all 4 histamine receptors, which may facilitate the rational design of ligands targeting these receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhang
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China.
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
| | - Guibing Liu
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Ya-Ni Zhong
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo college of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Ru Zhang
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo college of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Chuan-Cheng Yang
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo college of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Canyang Niu
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo college of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Xuanyu Pu
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo college of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, 264003, China
| | - Jingjing Sun
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo college of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Tianyao Zhang
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo college of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Lejin Yang
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Department of Psychology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo college of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Xiu Li
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Xinyuan Shen
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Peng Xiao
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo college of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
| | - Jin-Peng Sun
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo college of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu hospital and advanced Medical Research Institute, Meili Lake Translational Research Park, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Weimin Gong
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China.
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3
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Salom D, Wu A, Liu CC, Palczewski K. The Impact of Nanobodies on G Protein-Coupled Receptor Structural Biology and Their Potential as Therapeutic Agents. Mol Pharmacol 2024; 106:155-163. [PMID: 39107078 PMCID: PMC11413913 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.124.000974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The family of human G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) comprises about 800 different members, with about 35% of current pharmaceutical drugs targeting GPCRs. However, GPCR structural biology, necessary for structure-guided drug design, has lagged behind that of other membrane proteins, and it was not until the year 2000 when the first crystal structure of a GPCR (rhodopsin) was solved. Starting in 2007, the determination of additional GPCR structures was facilitated by protein engineering, new crystallization techniques, complexation with antibody fragments, and other strategies. More recently, the use of camelid heavy-chain-only antibody fragments (nanobodies) as crystallographic chaperones has revolutionized the field of GPCR structural biology, aiding in the determination of more than 340 GPCR structures to date. In most cases, the GPCR structures solved as complexes with nanobodies (Nbs) have revealed the binding mode of cognate or non-natural ligands; in a few cases, the same Nb has acted as an orthosteric or allosteric modulator of GPCR signaling. In this review, we summarize the multiple ingenious strategies that have been conceived and implemented in the last decade to capitalize on the discovery of nanobodies to study GPCRs from a structural perspective. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are major pharmacological targets, and the determination of their structures at high resolution has been essential for structure-guided drug design and for insights about their functions. Single-domain antibodies (nanobodies) have greatly facilitated the structural determination of GPCRs by forming complexes directly with the receptors or indirectly through protein partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Salom
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute - Center for Translational Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology (D.S., A.W., K.P.) and Department of Biomedical Engineering (C.C.L.), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Arum Wu
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute - Center for Translational Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology (D.S., A.W., K.P.) and Department of Biomedical Engineering (C.C.L.), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Chang C Liu
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute - Center for Translational Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology (D.S., A.W., K.P.) and Department of Biomedical Engineering (C.C.L.), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Krzysztof Palczewski
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute - Center for Translational Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology (D.S., A.W., K.P.) and Department of Biomedical Engineering (C.C.L.), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
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4
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Kogut-Günthel MM, Zara Z, Nicoli A, Steuer A, Lopez-Balastegui M, Selent J, Karanth S, Koehler M, Ciancetta A, Abiko LA, Hagn F, Di Pizio A. The path to the G protein-coupled receptor structural landscape: Major milestones and future directions. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 39209310 DOI: 10.1111/bph.17314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play a crucial role in cell function by transducing signals from the extracellular environment to the inside of the cell. They mediate the effects of various stimuli, including hormones, neurotransmitters, ions, photons, food tastants and odorants, and are renowned drug targets. Advancements in structural biology techniques, including X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), have driven the elucidation of an increasing number of GPCR structures. These structures reveal novel features that shed light on receptor activation, dimerization and oligomerization, dichotomy between orthosteric and allosteric modulation, and the intricate interactions underlying signal transduction, providing insights into diverse ligand-binding modes and signalling pathways. However, a substantial portion of the GPCR repertoire and their activation states remain structurally unexplored. Future efforts should prioritize capturing the full structural diversity of GPCRs across multiple dimensions. To do so, the integration of structural biology with biophysical and computational techniques will be essential. We describe in this review the progress of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to examine GPCR plasticity and conformational dynamics, of atomic force microscopy (AFM) to explore the spatial-temporal dynamics and kinetic aspects of GPCRs, and the recent breakthroughs in artificial intelligence for protein structure prediction to characterize the structures of the entire GPCRome. In summary, the journey through GPCR structural biology provided in this review illustrates how far we have come in decoding these essential proteins architecture and function. Looking ahead, integrating cutting-edge biophysics and computational tools offers a path to navigating the GPCR structural landscape, ultimately advancing GPCR-based applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zeenat Zara
- Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Alessandro Nicoli
- Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
- Professorship for Chemoinformatics and Protein Modelling, Department of Molecular Life Science, School of Life Science, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Alexandra Steuer
- Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
- Professorship for Chemoinformatics and Protein Modelling, Department of Molecular Life Science, School of Life Science, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Marta Lopez-Balastegui
- Research Programme on Biomedical Informatics (GRIB), Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute & Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jana Selent
- Research Programme on Biomedical Informatics (GRIB), Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute & Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sanjai Karanth
- Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Melanie Koehler
- Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
- TUM Junior Fellow at the Chair of Nutritional Systems Biology, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Antonella Ciancetta
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Layara Akemi Abiko
- Focal Area Structural Biology and Biophysics, Biozentrum, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Franz Hagn
- Structural Membrane Biochemistry, Bavarian NMR Center, Dept. Bioscience, School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Structural Biology (STB), Helmholtz Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Antonella Di Pizio
- Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
- Professorship for Chemoinformatics and Protein Modelling, Department of Molecular Life Science, School of Life Science, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
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5
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Scarano N, Espinoza S, Brullo C, Cichero E. Computational Methods for the Discovery and Optimization of TAAR1 and TAAR5 Ligands. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8226. [PMID: 39125796 PMCID: PMC11312273 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158226] [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: 07/02/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) represent a family of druggable targets when treating several diseases and continue to be a leading part of the drug discovery process. Trace amine-associated receptors (TAARs) are GPCRs involved in many physiological functions with TAAR1 having important roles within the central nervous system (CNS). By using homology modeling methods, the responsiveness of TAAR1 to endogenous and synthetic ligands has been explored. In addition, the discovery of different chemo-types as selective murine and/or human TAAR1 ligands has helped in the understanding of the species-specificity preferences. The availability of TAAR1-ligand complexes sheds light on how different ligands bind TAAR1. TAAR5 is considered an olfactory receptor but has specific involvement in some brain functions. In this case, the drug discovery effort has been limited. Here, we review the successful computational efforts developed in the search for novel TAAR1 and TAAR5 ligands. A specific focus on applying structure-based and/or ligand-based methods has been done. We also give a perspective of the experimental data available to guide the future drug design of new ligands, probing species-specificity preferences towards more selective ligands. Hints for applying repositioning approaches are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Scarano
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (N.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Stefano Espinoza
- Department of Health Sciences and Research Center on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy;
- Central RNA Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 16152 Genova, Italy
| | - Chiara Brullo
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (N.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Elena Cichero
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (N.S.); (C.B.)
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6
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Shihoya W, Iwama A, Sano FK, Nureki O. Cryo-EM advances in GPCR structure determination. J Biochem 2024; 176:1-10. [PMID: 38498911 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvae029] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a prominent superfamily in humans and are categorized into six classes (A-F) that play indispensable roles in cellular communication and therapeutics. Nonetheless, their structural comprehension has been limited by challenges in high-resolution data acquisition. This review highlights the transformative impact of cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) on the structural determinations of GPCR-G-protein complexes. Specific technologies, such as nanobodies and mini-G-proteins, stabilize complexes and facilitate structural determination. We discuss the structural alterations upon receptor activation in different GPCR classes, revealing their diverse mechanisms. This review highlights the robust foundation for comprehending GPCR function and pave the way for future breakthroughs in drug discovery and therapeutic targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Shihoya
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Aika Iwama
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Fumiya K Sano
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Osamu Nureki
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
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7
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O'Brien ES, Rangari VA, El Daibani A, Eans SO, Hammond HR, White E, Wang H, Shiimura Y, Krishna Kumar K, Jiang Q, Appourchaux K, Huang W, Zhang C, Kennedy BJ, Mathiesen JM, Che T, McLaughlin JP, Majumdar S, Kobilka BK. A µ-opioid receptor modulator that works cooperatively with naloxone. Nature 2024; 631:686-693. [PMID: 38961287 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07587-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
The µ-opioid receptor (µOR) is a well-established target for analgesia1, yet conventional opioid receptor agonists cause serious adverse effects, notably addiction and respiratory depression. These factors have contributed to the current opioid overdose epidemic driven by fentanyl2, a highly potent synthetic opioid. µOR negative allosteric modulators (NAMs) may serve as useful tools in preventing opioid overdose deaths, but promising chemical scaffolds remain elusive. Here we screened a large DNA-encoded chemical library against inactive µOR, counter-screening with active, G-protein and agonist-bound receptor to 'steer' hits towards conformationally selective modulators. We discovered a NAM compound with high and selective enrichment to inactive µOR that enhances the affinity of the key opioid overdose reversal molecule, naloxone. The NAM works cooperatively with naloxone to potently block opioid agonist signalling. Using cryogenic electron microscopy, we demonstrate that the NAM accomplishes this effect by binding a site on the extracellular vestibule in direct contact with naloxone while stabilizing a distinct inactive conformation of the extracellular portions of the second and seventh transmembrane helices. The NAM alters orthosteric ligand kinetics in therapeutically desirable ways and works cooperatively with low doses of naloxone to effectively inhibit various morphine-induced and fentanyl-induced behavioural effects in vivo while minimizing withdrawal behaviours. Our results provide detailed structural insights into the mechanism of negative allosteric modulation of the µOR and demonstrate how this can be exploited in vivo.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Humans
- Male
- Mice
- Allosteric Regulation/drug effects
- Analgesics, Opioid/antagonists & inhibitors
- Analgesics, Opioid/pharmacology
- Binding Sites/drug effects
- Cryoelectron Microscopy
- Drug Evaluation, Preclinical
- Fentanyl/antagonists & inhibitors
- Fentanyl/pharmacology
- Kinetics
- Ligands
- Models, Molecular
- Morphine/antagonists & inhibitors
- Morphine/pharmacology
- Naloxone/administration & dosage
- Naloxone/chemistry
- Naloxone/metabolism
- Naloxone/pharmacology
- Narcotic Antagonists/administration & dosage
- Narcotic Antagonists/chemistry
- Narcotic Antagonists/metabolism
- Narcotic Antagonists/pharmacology
- Opiate Overdose/drug therapy
- Protein Conformation/drug effects
- Protein Stability/drug effects
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/agonists
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/chemistry
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/metabolism
- Sf9 Cells
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Small Molecule Libraries/chemistry
- Small Molecule Libraries/pharmacology
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan S O'Brien
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Vipin Ashok Rangari
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy at St Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Amal El Daibani
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy at St Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Shainnel O Eans
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Haylee R Hammond
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Elizabeth White
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Haoqing Wang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Yuki Shiimura
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Life Science, Kurume University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kaavya Krishna Kumar
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Qianru Jiang
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy at St Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kevin Appourchaux
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy at St Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Weijiao Huang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Chensong Zhang
- Division of CryoEM and Bioimaging, SSRL, SLAC National Acceleration Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | | | - Jesper M Mathiesen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tao Che
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy at St Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jay P McLaughlin
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Susruta Majumdar
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy at St Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Brian K Kobilka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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8
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Li YG, Meng XY, Yang X, Ling SL, Shi P, Tian CL, Yang F. Structural insights into somatostatin receptor 5 bound with cyclic peptides. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024:10.1038/s41401-024-01314-8. [PMID: 38926478 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-024-01314-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Somatostatin receptor 5 (SSTR5) is highly expressed in ACTH-secreting pituitary adenomas and is an important drug target for the treatment of Cushing's disease. Two cyclic SST analog peptides (pasireotide and octreotide) both can activate SSTR5 and SSTR2. Pasireotide is preferential binding to SSTR5 than octreotide, while octreotide is biased to SSTR2 than SSTR5. The lack of selectivity of both pasireotide and octreotide causes side effects, such as hyperglycemia, gastrointestinal disturbance, and abnormal glucose homeostasis. However, little is known about the binding and selectivity mechanisms of pasireotide and octreotide with SSTR5, limiting the development of subtype-selective SST analog drugs specifically targeting SSTR5. Here, we report two cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of SSTR5-Gi complexes activated by pasireotide and octreoitde at resolutions of 3.09 Å and 3.24 Å, respectively. In combination with structural analysis and functional experiments, our results reveal the molecular mechanisms of ligand recognition and receptor activation. We also demonstrate that pasireotide preferentially binds to SSTR5 through the interactions between Tyr(Bzl)/DTrp of pasireotide and SSTR5. Moreover, we find that the Q2.63, N6.55, F7.35 and ECL2 of SSTR2 play a crucial role in octreotide biased binding of SSTR2. Our results will provide structural insights and offer new opportunities for the drug discovery of better selective pharmaceuticals targeting specific SSTR subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Ge Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Joint Center for Biological Analytical Chemistry, Anhui Engineering Laboratory of Peptide Drug, Anhui Laboratory of Advanced Photonic Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Xian-Yu Meng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Joint Center for Biological Analytical Chemistry, Anhui Engineering Laboratory of Peptide Drug, Anhui Laboratory of Advanced Photonic Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Xiru Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Joint Center for Biological Analytical Chemistry, Anhui Engineering Laboratory of Peptide Drug, Anhui Laboratory of Advanced Photonic Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Sheng-Long Ling
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Joint Center for Biological Analytical Chemistry, Anhui Engineering Laboratory of Peptide Drug, Anhui Laboratory of Advanced Photonic Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Pan Shi
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Joint Center for Biological Analytical Chemistry, Anhui Engineering Laboratory of Peptide Drug, Anhui Laboratory of Advanced Photonic Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China.
| | - Chang-Lin Tian
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Joint Center for Biological Analytical Chemistry, Anhui Engineering Laboratory of Peptide Drug, Anhui Laboratory of Advanced Photonic Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China.
- The Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Resonance Image, High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China.
| | - Fan Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Joint Center for Biological Analytical Chemistry, Anhui Engineering Laboratory of Peptide Drug, Anhui Laboratory of Advanced Photonic Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China.
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9
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Shen Q, Tang X, Wen X, Cheng S, Xiao P, Zang S, Shen D, Jiang L, Zheng Y, Zhang H, Xu H, Mao C, Zhang M, Hu W, Sun J, Zhang Y, Chen Z. Molecular Determinant Underlying Selective Coupling of Primary G-Protein by Class A GPCRs. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2310120. [PMID: 38647423 PMCID: PMC11187927 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202310120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) transmit downstream signals predominantly via G-protein pathways. However, the conformational basis of selective coupling of primary G-protein remains elusive. Histamine receptors H2R and H3R couple with Gs- or Gi-proteins respectively. Here, three cryo-EM structures of H2R-Gs and H3R-Gi complexes are presented at a global resolution of 2.6-2.7 Å. These structures reveal the unique binding pose for endogenous histamine in H3R, wherein the amino group interacts with E2065.46 of H3R instead of the conserved D1143.32 of other aminergic receptors. Furthermore, comparative analysis of the H2R-Gs and H3R-Gi complexes reveals that the structural geometry of TM5/TM6 determines the primary G-protein selectivity in histamine receptors. Machine learning (ML)-based structuromic profiling and functional analysis of class A GPCR-G-protein complexes illustrate that TM5 length, TM5 tilt, and TM6 outward movement are key determinants of the Gs and Gi/o selectivity among the whole Class A family. Collectively, the findings uncover the common structural geometry within class A GPCRs that determines the primary Gs- and Gi/o-coupling selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingya Shen
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital & Liangzhu LaboratoryHangzhou310058China
- MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain‐Machine IntegrationZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhou310058China
| | - Xinyan Tang
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pharmacy of the Second Affiliated HospitalNHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical NeurobiologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhou310058China
| | - Xin Wen
- Advanced Medical Research InstituteMeili Lake Translational Research ParkCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinan250012China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyShandong University School of MedicineJinan250012China
| | - Shizhuo Cheng
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital & Liangzhu LaboratoryHangzhou310058China
- MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain‐Machine IntegrationZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhou310058China
- College of Computer Science and TechnologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Peng Xiao
- Advanced Medical Research InstituteMeili Lake Translational Research ParkCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinan250012China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyShandong University School of MedicineJinan250012China
| | - Shao‐Kun Zang
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital & Liangzhu LaboratoryHangzhou310058China
- MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain‐Machine IntegrationZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhou310058China
| | - Dan‐Dan Shen
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital & Liangzhu LaboratoryHangzhou310058China
- MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain‐Machine IntegrationZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhou310058China
| | - Lei Jiang
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pharmacy of the Second Affiliated HospitalNHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical NeurobiologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhou310058China
| | - Yanrong Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang ProvinceZhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhou310053China
| | - Huibing Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital & Liangzhu LaboratoryHangzhou310058China
- MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain‐Machine IntegrationZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhou310058China
| | - Haomang Xu
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital & Liangzhu LaboratoryHangzhou310058China
- MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain‐Machine IntegrationZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhou310058China
| | - Chunyou Mao
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital & Liangzhu LaboratoryHangzhou310058China
- Department of General SurgerySir Run Run Shaw HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouZhejiang310016China
- Zhejiang Research and Development Engineering Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Technology and EquipmentZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310016China
| | - Min Zhang
- College of Computer Science and TechnologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Weiwei Hu
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pharmacy of the Second Affiliated HospitalNHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical NeurobiologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhou310058China
| | - Jin‐Peng Sun
- Advanced Medical Research InstituteMeili Lake Translational Research ParkCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinan250012China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyShandong University School of MedicineJinan250012China
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical SciencesPeking UniversityKey Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular ScienceMinistry of EducationBeijing100191China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital & Liangzhu LaboratoryHangzhou310058China
- MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain‐Machine IntegrationZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhou310058China
| | - Zhong Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pharmacy of the Second Affiliated HospitalNHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical NeurobiologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhou310058China
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang ProvinceZhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhou310053China
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10
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Duan J, He XH, Li SJ, Xu HE. Cryo-electron microscopy for GPCR research and drug discovery in endocrinology and metabolism. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2024; 20:349-365. [PMID: 38424377 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-024-00957-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest family of cell surface receptors, with many GPCRs having crucial roles in endocrinology and metabolism. Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) has revolutionized the field of structural biology, particularly regarding GPCRs, over the past decade. Since the first pair of GPCR structures resolved by cryo-EM were published in 2017, the number of GPCR structures resolved by cryo-EM has surpassed the number resolved by X-ray crystallography by 30%, reaching >650, and the number has doubled every ~0.63 years for the past 6 years. At this pace, it is predicted that the structure of 90% of all human GPCRs will be completed within the next 5-7 years. This Review highlights the general structural features and principles that guide GPCR ligand recognition, receptor activation, G protein coupling, arrestin recruitment and regulation by GPCR kinases. The Review also highlights the diversity of GPCR allosteric binding sites and how allosteric ligands could dictate biased signalling that is selective for a G protein pathway or an arrestin pathway. Finally, the authors use the examples of glycoprotein hormone receptors and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor to illustrate the effect of cryo-EM on understanding GPCR biology in endocrinology and metabolism, as well as on GPCR-related endocrine diseases and drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Duan
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Xin-Heng He
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shu-Jie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - H Eric Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
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11
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Bower JB, Robson SA, Ziarek JJ. Insights on the G protein-coupled receptor helix 8 solution structure and orientation using a neurotensin receptor 1 peptide. Protein Sci 2024; 33:e4976. [PMID: 38757374 PMCID: PMC11099793 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4976] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest class of membrane proteins encoded in the human genome with high pharmaceutical relevance and implications to human health. These receptors share a prevalent architecture of seven transmembrane helices followed by an intracellular, amphipathic helix 8 (H8) and a disordered C-terminal tail (Ctail). Technological advancements have led to over 1000 receptor structures in the last two decades, yet frequently H8 and the Ctail are conformationally heterogeneous or altogether absent. Here we synthesize a peptide comprising the neurotensin receptor 1 (NTS1) H8 and Ctail (H8-Ctail) to investigate its structural stability, conformational dynamics, and orientation in the presence of detergent and phospholipid micelles, which mimic the membrane. Circular dichroism (CD) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements confirm that zwitterionic 1,2-diheptanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine is a potent stabilizer of H8 structure, whereas the commonly-used branched detergent lauryl maltose neopentyl glycol (LMNG) is unable to completely stabilize the helix - even at amounts four orders of magnitude greater than its critical micellar concentration. We then used NMR spectroscopy to assign the backbone chemical shifts. A series of temperature and lipid titrations were used to define the H8 boundaries as F376-R392 from chemical shift perturbations, changes in resonance intensity, and chemical-shift-derived phi/psi angles. Finally, the H8 azimuthal and tilt angles, defining the helix orientation relative of the membrane normal were measured using paramagnetic relaxation enhancement NMR. Taken together, our studies reveal the H8-Ctail region is sensitive to membrane physicochemical properties and is capable of more adaptive behavior than previously suggested by static structural techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- James B. Bower
- Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry DepartmentIndiana UniversityBloomingtonIndianaUSA
| | - Scott A. Robson
- Department of PharmacologyNorthwestern University Feinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Joshua J. Ziarek
- Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry DepartmentIndiana UniversityBloomingtonIndianaUSA
- Department of PharmacologyNorthwestern University Feinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinoisUSA
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12
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Skiba MA, Sterling SM, Rawson S, Zhang S, Xu H, Jiang H, Nemeth GR, Gilman MSA, Hurley JD, Shen P, Staus DP, Kim J, McMahon C, Lehtinen MK, Rockman HA, Barth P, Wingler LM, Kruse AC. Antibodies expand the scope of angiotensin receptor pharmacology. Nat Chem Biol 2024:10.1038/s41589-024-01620-6. [PMID: 38744986 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-024-01620-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are key regulators of human physiology and are the targets of many small-molecule research compounds and therapeutic drugs. While most of these ligands bind to their target GPCR with high affinity, selectivity is often limited at the receptor, tissue and cellular levels. Antibodies have the potential to address these limitations but their properties as GPCR ligands remain poorly characterized. Here, using protein engineering, pharmacological assays and structural studies, we develop maternally selective heavy-chain-only antibody ('nanobody') antagonists against the angiotensin II type I receptor and uncover the unusual molecular basis of their receptor antagonism. We further show that our nanobodies can simultaneously bind to angiotensin II type I receptor with specific small-molecule antagonists and demonstrate that ligand selectivity can be readily tuned. Our work illustrates that antibody fragments can exhibit rich and evolvable pharmacology, attesting to their potential as next-generation GPCR modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith A Skiba
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sarah M Sterling
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cryo-EM Facility at MIT.nano, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Shaun Rawson
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shuhao Zhang
- Interfaculty Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Huixin Xu
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Haoran Jiang
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Genevieve R Nemeth
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Morgan S A Gilman
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joseph D Hurley
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pengxiang Shen
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Dean P Staus
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Septerna, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jihee Kim
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Conor McMahon
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Sanofi, Large Molecule Research, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Maria K Lehtinen
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Howard A Rockman
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Patrick Barth
- Interfaculty Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Laura M Wingler
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Andrew C Kruse
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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13
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Kung JE, Johnson MC, Jao CC, Arthur CP, Tegunov D, Rohou A, Sudhamsu J. Disulfi de constrained Fabs overcome target size limitation for high-resolution single-particle cryo-EM. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.10.593593. [PMID: 38798381 PMCID: PMC11118328 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.10.593593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
High-resolution structures of proteins are critical to understanding molecular mechanisms of biological processes and in the discovery of therapeutic molecules. Cryo-EM has revolutionized structure determination of large proteins and their complexes1, but a vast majority of proteins that underlie human diseases are small (< 50 kDa) and usually beyond its reach due to low signal-to-noise images and difficulties in particle alignment2. Current strategies to overcome this problem increase the overall size of small protein targets using scaffold proteins that bind to the target, but are limited by inherent flexibility and not being bound to their targets in a rigid manner, resulting in the target being poorly resolved compared to the scaffolds3-11. Here we present an iteratively engineered molecular design for transforming Fabs (antibody fragments), into conformationally rigid scaffolds (Rigid-Fabs) that, when bound to small proteins (~20 kDa), can enable high-resolution structure determination using cryo-EM. This design introduces multiple disulfide bonds at strategic locations, generates a well-folded Fab constrained into a rigid conformation and can be applied to Fabs from various species, isotypes and chimeric Fabs. We present examples of the Rigid Fab design enabling high-resolution (2.3-2.5 Å) structures of small proteins, Ang2 (26 kDa) and KRAS (21 kDa) by cryo-EM. The strategies for designing disulfide constrained Rigid Fabs in our work thus establish a general approach to overcome the target size limitation of single particle cryo-EM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer E. Kung
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Matthew C. Johnson
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Christine C. Jao
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Christopher P. Arthur
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Dimitry Tegunov
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Alexis Rohou
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Jawahar Sudhamsu
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
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14
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Khorn PA, Luginina AP, Pospelov VA, Dashevsky DE, Khnykin AN, Moiseeva OV, Safronova NA, Belousov AS, Mishin AV, Borshchevsky VI. Rational Design of Drugs Targeting G-Protein-Coupled Receptors: A Structural Biology Perspective. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2024; 89:747-764. [PMID: 38831510 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297924040138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play a key role in the transduction of extracellular signals to cells and regulation of many biological processes, which makes these membrane proteins one of the most important targets for pharmacological agents. A significant increase in the number of resolved atomic structures of GPCRs has opened the possibility of developing pharmaceuticals targeting these receptors via structure-based drug design (SBDD). SBDD employs information on the structure of receptor-ligand complexes to search for selective ligands without the need for an extensive high-throughput experimental ligand screening and can significantly expand the chemical space for ligand search. In this review, we describe the process of deciphering GPCR structures using X-ray diffraction analysis and cryoelectron microscopy as an important stage in the rational design of drugs targeting this receptor class. Our main goal was to present modern developments and key features of experimental methods used in SBDD of GPCR-targeting agents to a wide range of specialists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Polina A Khorn
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Aleksandra P Luginina
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Vladimir A Pospelov
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Dmitrii E Dashevsky
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Andrey N Khnykin
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Olga V Moiseeva
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
- Scryabin Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Microorganisms, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russia
| | - Nadezhda A Safronova
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Anatolii S Belousov
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Alexey V Mishin
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia.
| | - Valentin I Borshchevsky
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia.
- Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Frank Laboratory of Neutron Physics, Dubna, Moscow Region, 141980, Russia
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15
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Jiao H, Pang B, Liu A, Chen Q, Pan Q, Wang X, Xu Y, Chiang YC, Ren R, Hu H. Structural insights into the activation and inhibition of CXC chemokine receptor 3. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2024; 31:610-620. [PMID: 38177682 PMCID: PMC11026165 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-023-01175-5] [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: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The chemotaxis of CD4+ type 1 helper cells and CD8+ cytotoxic lymphocytes, guided by interferon-inducible CXC chemokine 9-11 (CXCL9-11) and CXC chemokine receptor 3 (CXCR3), plays a critical role in type 1 immunity. Here we determined the structures of human CXCR3-DNGi complexes activated by chemokine CXCL11, peptidomimetic agonist PS372424 and biaryl-type agonist VUF11222, and the structure of inactive CXCR3 bound to noncompetitive antagonist SCH546738. Structural analysis revealed that PS372424 shares a similar orthosteric binding pocket to the N terminus of CXCL11, while VUF11222 buries deeper and activates the receptor in a distinct manner. We showed an allosteric binding site between TM5 and TM6, accommodating SCH546738 in the inactive CXCR3. SCH546738 may restrain the receptor at an inactive state by preventing the repacking of TM5 and TM6. By revealing the binding patterns and the pharmacological properties of the four modulators, we present the activation mechanisms of CXCR3 and provide insights for future drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haizhan Jiao
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bin Pang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Aijun Liu
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qiang Chen
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qi Pan
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- School of Life and Health Sciences, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiankun Wang
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yunong Xu
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ying-Chih Chiang
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Ruobing Ren
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hongli Hu
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China.
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16
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Yamamoto M, Funada R, Taki R, Shiroishi M. Production and characterization of an Fv-clasp of rheumatoid factor, a low-affinity human autoantibody. J Biochem 2024; 175:387-394. [PMID: 38102734 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvad112] [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: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid factor (RF) is an autoantibody against IgG that affects autoimmune diseases and inhibits the effectiveness of pharmaceuticals and diagnostic agents. Although RFs derived from various germline genes have been identified, little is known about their molecular recognition mechanisms. In this study, the Fv-clasp format was used to prepare YES8c, an RF. We developed an Escherichia coli secretion expression system capable of producing milligram-scale of YES8c Fv-clasp per 1 L of culture. Although YES8c is an autoantibody with very low affinity, the produced Fv-clasp maintained specific binding to IgG. Interestingly, the molecules prepared by E. coli secretion had a higher affinity than those prepared by refolding. In the structure of the YES8c-Fc complex, the N-terminus of the light chain is close to Fc; therefore, it is suggested that the addition of the N-terminal methionine may cause collisions with Fc, resulting in reduced affinity. Our findings suggest that the Fv-clasp, which provides sufficient stability and a high bacterial yield, is a useful format for studying RFs with very low affinity. Furthermore, the Fv-clasp produced from a secretion expression system, which can properly process the N-terminus, would be suitable for analysis of RFs in which the N-terminus may be involved in interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maruto Yamamoto
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, 6-3-1 Niijuku, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, 125-8585, Japan
| | - Ryoma Funada
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, 6-3-1 Niijuku, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, 125-8585, Japan
| | - Ryota Taki
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, 6-3-1 Niijuku, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, 125-8585, Japan
| | - Mitsunori Shiroishi
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, 6-3-1 Niijuku, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, 125-8585, Japan
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17
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Xia R, Shi S, Xu Z, Vischer HF, Windhorst AD, Qian Y, Duan Y, Liang J, Chen K, Zhang A, Guo C, Leurs R, He Y. Structural basis of ligand recognition and design of antihistamines targeting histamine H 4 receptor. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2493. [PMID: 38509098 PMCID: PMC10954740 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46840-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The histamine H4 receptor (H4R) plays key role in immune cell function and is a highly valued target for treating allergic and inflammatory diseases. However, structural information of H4R remains elusive. Here, we report four cryo-EM structures of H4R/Gi complexes, with either histamine or synthetic agonists clobenpropit, VUF6884 and clozapine bound. Combined with mutagenesis, ligand binding and functional assays, the structural data reveal a distinct ligand binding mode where D943.32 and a π-π network determine the orientation of the positively charged group of ligands, while E1825.46, located at the opposite end of the ligand binding pocket, plays a key role in regulating receptor activity. The structural insight into H4R ligand binding allows us to identify mutants at E1825.46 for which the agonist clobenpropit acts as an inverse agonist and to correctly predict inverse agonism of a closely related analog with nanomolar potency. Together with the findings regarding receptor activation and Gi engagement, we establish a framework for understanding H4R signaling and provide a rational basis for designing novel antihistamines targeting H4R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruixue Xia
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Shuang Shi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Zhenmei Xu
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Henry F Vischer
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Albert D Windhorst
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yu Qian
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Yaning Duan
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Jiale Liang
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Kai Chen
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Anqi Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Changyou Guo
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Rob Leurs
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Yuanzheng He
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China.
- Frontiers Science Center for Matter Behave in Space Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China.
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18
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Cebi E, Lee J, Subramani VK, Bak N, Oh C, Kim KK. Cryo-electron microscopy-based drug design. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1342179. [PMID: 38501110 PMCID: PMC10945328 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1342179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Structure-based drug design (SBDD) has gained popularity owing to its ability to develop more potent drugs compared to conventional drug-discovery methods. The success of SBDD relies heavily on obtaining the three-dimensional structures of drug targets. X-ray crystallography is the primary method used for solving structures and aiding the SBDD workflow; however, it is not suitable for all targets. With the resolution revolution, enabling routine high-resolution reconstruction of structures, cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) has emerged as a promising alternative and has attracted increasing attention in SBDD. Cryo-EM offers various advantages over X-ray crystallography and can potentially replace X-ray crystallography in SBDD. To fully utilize cryo-EM in drug discovery, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of this technique and noting the key advancements in the field are crucial. This review provides an overview of the general workflow of cryo-EM in SBDD and highlights technical innovations that enable its application in drug design. Furthermore, the most recent achievements in the cryo-EM methodology for drug discovery are discussed, demonstrating the potential of this technique for advancing drug development. By understanding the capabilities and advancements of cryo-EM, researchers can leverage the benefits of designing more effective drugs. This review concludes with a discussion of the future perspectives of cryo-EM-based SBDD, emphasizing the role of this technique in driving innovations in drug discovery and development. The integration of cryo-EM into the drug design process holds great promise for accelerating the discovery of new and improved therapeutic agents to combat various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Changsuk Oh
- Department of Precision Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyeong Kyu Kim
- Department of Precision Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
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19
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Majumdar S, Chiu YT, Pickett JE, Roth BL. Illuminating the understudied GPCR-ome. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:103848. [PMID: 38052317 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103848] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the target of >30% of approved drugs. Despite their popularity, many of the >800 human GPCRs remain understudied. The Illuminating the Druggable Genome (IDG) project has generated many tools leading to important insights into the function and druggability of these so-called 'dark' receptors. These tools include assays, such as PRESTO-TANGO and TRUPATH, billions of small molecules made available via the ZINC virtual library, solved orphan GPCR structures, GPCR knock-in mice, and more. Together, these tools are illuminating the remaining 'dark' GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreeparna Majumdar
- Department of Pharmacology, UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Yi-Ting Chiu
- Department of Pharmacology, UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Julie E Pickett
- Department of Pharmacology, UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Bryan L Roth
- Department of Pharmacology, UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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20
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Zhang S, Fan Z, Liu J. Generation and characterization of nanobodies targeting GPCR. BIOPHYSICS REPORTS 2024; 10:22-30. [PMID: 38737476 PMCID: PMC11079602 DOI: 10.52601/bpr.2023.230026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a large family of cell membrane proteins that are important targets for drug discovery. Nanobodies, also known as VHH (variable domains of heavy chain-only antibodies, HcAbs) antibodies, are small antibody fragments derived from camelids that have gained significant attention as potential therapeutics for targeting GPCRs due to their advantages over conventional antibodies. However, there are challenges in developing nanobodies targeting GPCRs, among which epitope accessibility is the most significant because the cell membrane partially shields the GPCR surface. We developed a universal protocol for making nanobodies targeting GPCRs using the cell membrane extract of GPCR-overexpressing HEK293 cells as the llama/alpaca immunization antigen. We constructed an immune VHH library and identified nanobodies by phage display bio-panning. The monoclonal nanobodies were recombinantly expressed in Escherichia coli (E. coli) and purified to characterize their binding potency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenglan Zhang
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou 510005, China
| | - Zhiran Fan
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou 510005, China
| | - Jianfeng Liu
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou 510005, China
- Cellular Signaling laboratory, International Research Center for Sensory Biology and Technology of MOST, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of MOE, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
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21
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Köck Z, Schnelle K, Persechino M, Umbach S, Schihada H, Januliene D, Parey K, Pockes S, Kolb P, Dötsch V, Möller A, Hilger D, Bernhard F. Cryo-EM structure of cell-free synthesized human histamine 2 receptor/G s complex in nanodisc environment. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1831. [PMID: 38418462 PMCID: PMC10901899 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46096-z] [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: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Here we describe the cryo-electron microscopy structure of the human histamine 2 receptor (H2R) in an active conformation with bound histamine and in complex with Gs heterotrimeric protein at an overall resolution of 3.4 Å. The complex was generated by cotranslational insertion of the receptor into preformed nanodisc membranes using cell-free synthesis in E. coli lysates. Structural comparison with the inactive conformation of H2R and the inactive and Gq-coupled active state of H1R together with structure-guided functional experiments reveal molecular insights into the specificity of ligand binding and G protein coupling for this receptor family. We demonstrate lipid-modulated folding of cell-free synthesized H2R, its agonist-dependent internalization and its interaction with endogenously synthesized H1R and H2R in HEK293 cells by applying a recently developed nanotransfer technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Köck
- Centre for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Goethe-University of Frankfurt/Main, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Kilian Schnelle
- Department of Biology/Chemistry, Structural Biology section, University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
- Center of Cellular Nanoanalytic Osnabrück (CellNanOs), University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
| | | | - Simon Umbach
- Centre for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Goethe-University of Frankfurt/Main, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Hannes Schihada
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Dovile Januliene
- Department of Biology/Chemistry, Structural Biology section, University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
- Center of Cellular Nanoanalytic Osnabrück (CellNanOs), University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Kristian Parey
- Department of Biology/Chemistry, Structural Biology section, University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
- Center of Cellular Nanoanalytic Osnabrück (CellNanOs), University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Steffen Pockes
- Institute of Pharmacy, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Peter Kolb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Volker Dötsch
- Centre for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Goethe-University of Frankfurt/Main, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Arne Möller
- Department of Biology/Chemistry, Structural Biology section, University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany.
- Center of Cellular Nanoanalytic Osnabrück (CellNanOs), University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany.
| | - Daniel Hilger
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany.
| | - Frank Bernhard
- Centre for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Goethe-University of Frankfurt/Main, Frankfurt, Germany.
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22
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Li H, Sun X, Cui W, Xu M, Dong J, Ekundayo BE, Ni D, Rao Z, Guo L, Stahlberg H, Yuan S, Vogel H. Computational drug development for membrane protein targets. Nat Biotechnol 2024; 42:229-242. [PMID: 38361054 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-023-01987-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
The application of computational biology in drug development for membrane protein targets has experienced a boost from recent developments in deep learning-driven structure prediction, increased speed and resolution of structure elucidation, machine learning structure-based design and the evaluation of big data. Recent protein structure predictions based on machine learning tools have delivered surprisingly reliable results for water-soluble and membrane proteins but have limitations for development of drugs that target membrane proteins. Structural transitions of membrane proteins have a central role during transmembrane signaling and are often influenced by therapeutic compounds. Resolving the structural and functional basis of dynamic transmembrane signaling networks, especially within the native membrane or cellular environment, remains a central challenge for drug development. Tackling this challenge will require an interplay between experimental and computational tools, such as super-resolution optical microscopy for quantification of the molecular interactions of cellular signaling networks and their modulation by potential drugs, cryo-electron microscopy for determination of the structural transitions of proteins in native cell membranes and entire cells, and computational tools for data analysis and prediction of the structure and function of cellular signaling networks, as well as generation of promising drug candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haijian Li
- Center for Computer-Aided Drug Discovery, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology/Chinese Academy of Sciences (SIAT/CAS), Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaolin Sun
- Center for Computer-Aided Drug Discovery, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology/Chinese Academy of Sciences (SIAT/CAS), Shenzhen, China
| | - Wenqiang Cui
- Center for Computer-Aided Drug Discovery, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology/Chinese Academy of Sciences (SIAT/CAS), Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Marc Xu
- Center for Computer-Aided Drug Discovery, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology/Chinese Academy of Sciences (SIAT/CAS), Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Junlin Dong
- Center for Computer-Aided Drug Discovery, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology/Chinese Academy of Sciences (SIAT/CAS), Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Babatunde Edukpe Ekundayo
- Laboratory of Biological Electron Microscopy, IPHYS, SB, EPFL and Department of Fundamental Microbiology, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Dongchun Ni
- Laboratory of Biological Electron Microscopy, IPHYS, SB, EPFL and Department of Fundamental Microbiology, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Zhili Rao
- Center for Computer-Aided Drug Discovery, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology/Chinese Academy of Sciences (SIAT/CAS), Shenzhen, China
| | - Liwei Guo
- Center for Computer-Aided Drug Discovery, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology/Chinese Academy of Sciences (SIAT/CAS), Shenzhen, China
| | - Henning Stahlberg
- Laboratory of Biological Electron Microscopy, IPHYS, SB, EPFL and Department of Fundamental Microbiology, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Shuguang Yuan
- Center for Computer-Aided Drug Discovery, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology/Chinese Academy of Sciences (SIAT/CAS), Shenzhen, China.
| | - Horst Vogel
- Center for Computer-Aided Drug Discovery, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology/Chinese Academy of Sciences (SIAT/CAS), Shenzhen, China.
- Institut des Sciences et Ingénierie Chimiques (ISIC), Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
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23
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Zhang Z, Lin X, Wei L, Wu Y, Xu L, Wu L, Wei X, Zhao S, Zhu X, Xu F. A framework for Frizzled-G protein coupling and implications to the PCP signaling pathways. Cell Discov 2024; 10:3. [PMID: 38182578 PMCID: PMC10770037 DOI: 10.1038/s41421-023-00627-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The ten Frizzled receptors (FZDs) are essential in Wnt signaling and play important roles in embryonic development and tumorigenesis. Among these, FZD6 is closely associated with lens development. Understanding FZD activation mechanism is key to unlock these emerging targets. Here we present the cryo-EM structures of FZD6 and FZD3 which are known to relay non-canonical planar cell polarity (PCP) signaling pathways as well as FZD1 in their G protein-coupled states and in the apo inactive states, respectively. Comparison of the three inactive/active pairs unveiled a shared activation framework among all ten FZDs. Mutagenesis along with imaging and functional analysis on the human lens epithelial tissues suggested potential crosstalk between the G-protein coupling of FZD6 and the PCP signaling pathways. Together, this study provides an integrated understanding of FZD structure and function, and lays the foundation for developing therapeutic modulators to activate or inhibit FZD signaling for a range of disorders including cancers and cataracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhibin Zhang
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Lin
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Wei
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiran Wu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Xu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lijie Wu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohu Wei
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Suwen Zhao
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiangjia Zhu
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Fei Xu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Clinical Research and Trial Center, Shanghai, China.
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24
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Bernhard SM, Che T. Capturing receptor states with glue. Nat Chem Biol 2024; 20:6-7. [PMID: 37580553 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01396-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Bernhard
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Tao Che
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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25
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Guo Q, He B, Zhong Y, Jiao H, Ren Y, Wang Q, Ge Q, Gao Y, Liu X, Du Y, Hu H, Tao Y. A method for structure determination of GPCRs in various states. Nat Chem Biol 2024; 20:74-82. [PMID: 37580554 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01389-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a class of integral membrane proteins that detect environmental cues and trigger cellular responses. Deciphering the functional states of GPCRs induced by various ligands has been one of the primary goals in the field. Here we developed an effective universal method for GPCR cryo-electron microscopy structure determination without the need to prepare GPCR-signaling protein complexes. Using this method, we successfully solved the structures of the β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR) bound to antagonistic and agonistic ligands and the adhesion GPCR ADGRL3 in the apo state. For β2AR, an intermediate state stabilized by the partial agonist was captured. For ADGRL3, the structure revealed that inactive ADGRL3 adopts a compact fold and that large unusual conformational changes on both the extracellular and intracellular sides are required for activation of adhesion GPCRs. We anticipate that this method will open a new avenue for understanding GPCR structure‒function relationships and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Guo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, MOE Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles and Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Center for Cross-Disciplinary Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Binbin He
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, MOE Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles and Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Center for Cross-Disciplinary Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yixuan Zhong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, MOE Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles and Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Center for Cross-Disciplinary Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Haizhan Jiao
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yinhang Ren
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Qinggong Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, MOE Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles and Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Center for Cross-Disciplinary Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Qiangqiang Ge
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, MOE Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles and Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Center for Cross-Disciplinary Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yongxiang Gao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, MOE Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles and Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Center for Cross-Disciplinary Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xiangyu Liu
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Du
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hongli Hu
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Yuyong Tao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, MOE Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles and Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Center for Cross-Disciplinary Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
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26
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Provasi D, Filizola M. Enhancing Opioid Bioactivity Predictions through Integration of Ligand-Based and Structure-Based Drug Discovery Strategies with Transfer and Deep Learning Techniques. J Phys Chem B 2023; 127:10691-10699. [PMID: 38084046 PMCID: PMC11252170 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c05306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
The opioid epidemic has cast a shadow over public health, necessitating immediate action to address its devastating consequences. To effectively combat this crisis, it is crucial to discover better opioid drugs with reduced addiction potential. Artificial intelligence-based and other machine learning tools, particularly deep learning models, have garnered significant attention in recent years for their potential to advance drug discovery. However, using these tools poses challenges, especially when training samples are insufficient to achieve adequate prediction performance. In this study, we investigate the effectiveness of transfer learning in building robust deep learning models to enhance ligand bioactivity prediction for each individual opioid receptor (OR) subtype. This is achieved by leveraging knowledge obtained from pretraining a model using supervised learning on a larger data set of bioactivity data combined with ligand-based and structure-based molecular descriptors related to the entire OR subfamily. Our studies hold the potential to advance opioid research by enabling the rapid identification of novel chemical probes with specific bioactivities, which can aid in the study of receptor function and contribute to the future development of improved opioid therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Provasi
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, New York 10029, United States
| | - Marta Filizola
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, New York 10029, United States
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27
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Yu J, Kumar A, Zhang X, Martin C, Raia P, Koehl A, Laeremans T, Steyaert J, Manglik A, Ballet S, Boland A, Stoeber M. Structural Basis of μ-Opioid Receptor-Targeting by a Nanobody Antagonist. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.06.570395. [PMID: 38106026 PMCID: PMC10723425 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.06.570395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
The μ-opioid receptor (μOR), a prototypical member of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family, is the molecular target of opioid analgesics such as morphine and fentanyl. Due to the limitations and severe side effects of currently available opioid drugs, there is considerable interest in developing novel modulators of μOR function. Most GPCR ligands today are small molecules, however biologics, including antibodies and nanobodies, are emerging as alternative therapeutics with clear advantages such as affinity and target selectivity. Here, we describe the nanobody NbE, which selectively binds to the μOR and acts as an antagonist. We functionally characterize NbE as an extracellular and genetically encoded μOR ligand and uncover the molecular basis for μOR antagonism by solving the cryo-EM structure of the NbE-μOR complex. NbE displays a unique ligand binding mode and achieves μOR selectivity by interactions with the orthosteric pocket and extracellular receptor loops. Based on a β-hairpin loop formed by NbE that deeply inserts into the μOR and centers most binding contacts, we design short peptide analogues that retain μOR antagonism. The work illustrates the potential of nanobodies to uniquely engage with GPCRs and describes novel μOR ligands that can serve as a basis for therapeutic developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Yu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Amit Kumar
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Xuefeng Zhang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Charlotte Martin
- Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pierre Raia
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Antoine Koehl
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Jan Steyaert
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology, VIB, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Aashish Manglik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Steven Ballet
- Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Andreas Boland
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Miriam Stoeber
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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28
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Cheng L, Xia F, Li Z, Shen C, Yang Z, Hou H, Sun S, Feng Y, Yong X, Tian X, Qin H, Yan W, Shao Z. Structure, function and drug discovery of GPCR signaling. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2023; 4:46. [PMID: 38047990 PMCID: PMC10695916 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-023-00156-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are versatile and vital proteins involved in a wide array of physiological processes and responses, such as sensory perception (e.g., vision, taste, and smell), immune response, hormone regulation, and neurotransmission. Their diverse and essential roles in the body make them a significant focus for pharmaceutical research and drug development. Currently, approximately 35% of marketed drugs directly target GPCRs, underscoring their prominence as therapeutic targets. Recent advances in structural biology have substantially deepened our understanding of GPCR activation mechanisms and interactions with G-protein and arrestin signaling pathways. This review offers an in-depth exploration of both traditional and recent methods in GPCR structure analysis. It presents structure-based insights into ligand recognition and receptor activation mechanisms and delves deeper into the mechanisms of canonical and noncanonical signaling pathways downstream of GPCRs. Furthermore, it highlights recent advancements in GPCR-related drug discovery and development. Particular emphasis is placed on GPCR selective drugs, allosteric and biased signaling, polyphamarcology, and antibody drugs. Our goal is to provide researchers with a thorough and updated understanding of GPCR structure determination, signaling pathway investigation, and drug development. This foundation aims to propel forward-thinking therapeutic approaches that target GPCRs, drawing upon the latest insights into GPCR ligand selectivity, activation, and biased signaling mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Cheng
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Fan Xia
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ziyan Li
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Chenglong Shen
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhiqian Yang
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Hanlin Hou
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Suyue Sun
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuying Feng
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xihao Yong
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaowen Tian
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Hongxi Qin
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Zhenhua Shao
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
- Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Frontiers Medical Center, Chengdu, 610212, China.
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29
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Frecot DI, Froehlich T, Rothbauer U. 30 years of nanobodies - an ongoing success story of small binders in biological research. J Cell Sci 2023; 136:jcs261395. [PMID: 37937477 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
A milestone in the field of recombinant binding molecules was achieved 30 years ago with the discovery of single-domain antibodies from which antigen-binding variable domains, better known as nanobodies (Nbs), can be derived. Being only one tenth the size of conventional antibodies, Nbs feature high affinity and specificity, while being highly stable and soluble. In addition, they display accessibility to cryptic sites, low off-target accumulation and deep tissue penetration. Efficient selection methods, such as (semi-)synthetic/naïve or immunized cDNA libraries and display technologies, have facilitated the isolation of Nbs against diverse targets, and their single-gene format enables easy functionalization and high-yield production. This Review highlights recent advances in Nb applications in various areas of biological research, including structural biology, proteomics and high-resolution and in vivo imaging. In addition, we provide insights into intracellular applications of Nbs, such as live-cell imaging, biosensors and targeted protein degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desiree I Frecot
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Markwiesenstrasse 55, 72770 Reutlingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Theresa Froehlich
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Rothbauer
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
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30
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Im D, Kishikawa JI, Shiimura Y, Hisano H, Ito A, Fujita-Fujiharu Y, Sugita Y, Noda T, Kato T, Asada H, Iwata S. Structural insights into the agonists binding and receptor selectivity of human histamine H 4 receptor. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6538. [PMID: 37863901 PMCID: PMC10589313 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42260-z] [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: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Histamine is a biogenic amine that participates in allergic and inflammatory processes by stimulating histamine receptors. The histamine H4 receptor (H4R) is a potential therapeutic target for chronic inflammatory diseases such as asthma and atopic dermatitis. Here, we show the cryo-electron microscopy structures of the H4R-Gq complex bound with an endogenous agonist histamine or the selective agonist imetit bound in the orthosteric binding pocket. The structures demonstrate binding mode of histamine agonists and that the subtype-selective agonist binding causes conformational changes in Phe3447.39, which, in turn, form the "aromatic slot". The results provide insights into the molecular underpinnings of the agonism of H4R and subtype selectivity of histamine receptors, and show that the H4R structures may be valuable in rational drug design of drugs targeting the H4R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dohyun Im
- Department of Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Konoe-cho, Yoshida, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
| | - Jun-Ichi Kishikawa
- Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, 3-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yuki Shiimura
- Department of Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Konoe-cho, Yoshida, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
- Institute of Life Science, Kurume University, Kurume, Fukuoka, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Hiromi Hisano
- Department of Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Konoe-cho, Yoshida, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
| | - Akane Ito
- Department of Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Konoe-cho, Yoshida, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
| | - Yoko Fujita-Fujiharu
- Laboratory of Ultrastructural Virology, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
- Laboratory of Ultrastructural Virology, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
- CREST, Japan Science and Technology Agency, 4-1-8 Honcho, Kawaguchi, Saitama, 332-0012, Japan
| | - Yukihiko Sugita
- Laboratory of Ultrastructural Virology, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
- Laboratory of Ultrastructural Virology, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
- Hakubi Center for Advanced Research, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
| | - Takeshi Noda
- Laboratory of Ultrastructural Virology, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
- Laboratory of Ultrastructural Virology, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
- CREST, Japan Science and Technology Agency, 4-1-8 Honcho, Kawaguchi, Saitama, 332-0012, Japan
| | - Takayuki Kato
- Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, 3-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Hidetsugu Asada
- Department of Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Konoe-cho, Yoshida, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan.
| | - So Iwata
- Department of Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Konoe-cho, Yoshida, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan.
- RIKEN SPring-8 Center, 1-1-1 Kouto, Sayo-cho, Sayo-gun, Hyogo, 679-5148, Japan.
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31
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Munro TA. Reanalysis of a μ opioid receptor crystal structure reveals a covalent adduct with BU72. BMC Biol 2023; 21:213. [PMID: 37817141 PMCID: PMC10566028 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01689-w] [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: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The first crystal structure of the active μ opioid receptor (μOR) exhibited several unexplained features. The ligand BU72 exhibited many extreme deviations from ideal geometry, along with unexplained electron density. I previously showed that inverting the benzylic configuration resolved these problems, establishing revised stereochemistry of BU72 and its analog BU74. However, another problem remains unresolved: additional unexplained electron density contacts both BU72 and a histidine residue in the N-terminus, revealing the presence of an as-yet unidentified atom. RESULTS These short contacts and uninterrupted density are inconsistent with non-covalent interactions. Therefore, BU72 and μOR form a covalent adduct, rather than representing two separate entities as in the original model. A subsequently proposed magnesium complex is inconsistent with multiple lines of evidence. However, oxygen fits the unexplained density well. While the structure I propose is tentative, similar adducts have been reported previously in the presence of reactive oxygen species. Moreover, known sources of reactive oxygen species were present: HEPES buffer, nickel ions, and a sequence motif that forms redox-active nickel complexes. This motif contacts the unexplained density. The adduct exhibits severe strain, and the tethered N-terminus forms contacts with adjacent residues. These forces, along with the nanobody used as a G protein substitute, would be expected to influence the receptor conformation. Consistent with this, the intracellular end of the structure differs markedly from subsequent structures of active μOR bound to Gi protein. CONCLUSIONS Later Gi-bound structures are likely to be more accurate templates for ligand docking and modelling of active G protein-bound μOR. The possibility of reactions like this should be considered in the choice of protein truncation sites and purification conditions, and in the interpretation of excess or unexplained density.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Munro
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia.
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32
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Zhang L, Rao Z. Structural biology and inhibition of the Mtb cell wall glycoconjugates biosynthesis on the membrane. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2023; 82:102670. [PMID: 37542906 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2023.102670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Glycoconjugates are the dominant components of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis cell wall. These glycoconjugates are essential for the viability of Mtb and attribute to drug resistance and virulence during infection. The assembly and maturation of the cell wall largely relies on the Mtb plasma membrane. A significant number of membrane-bound glycosyltransferases (GTs) and transporters play pivotal roles in forming the complex glycoconjugates and are targeted by the first-line anti-TB drug and potent drug candidates. Here we summarize the latest structural biology of mycobacterial GTs and transporters, and describe the modes of action of drug and drug candidates that are of substantial clinical value in anti-TB chemotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.
| | - Zihe Rao
- Laboratory of Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
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33
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Skiba MA, Sterling SM, Rawson S, Gilman MS, Xu H, Nemeth GR, Hurley JD, Shen P, Staus DP, Kim J, McMahon C, Lehtinen MK, Wingler LM, Kruse AC. Antibodies Expand the Scope of Angiotensin Receptor Pharmacology. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.23.554128. [PMID: 37662341 PMCID: PMC10473732 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.23.554128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are key regulators of human physiology and are the targets of many small molecule research compounds and therapeutic drugs. While most of these ligands bind to their target GPCR with high affinity, selectivity is often limited at the receptor, tissue, and cellular level. Antibodies have the potential to address these limitations but their properties as GPCR ligands remain poorly characterized. Here, using protein engineering, pharmacological assays, and structural studies, we develop maternally selective heavy chain-only antibody ("nanobody") antagonists against the angiotensin II type I receptor (AT1R) and uncover the unusual molecular basis of their receptor antagonism. We further show that our nanobodies can simultaneously bind to AT1R with specific small-molecule antagonists and demonstrate that ligand selectivity can be readily tuned. Our work illustrates that antibody fragments can exhibit rich and evolvable pharmacology, attesting to their potential as next-generation GPCR modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith A. Skiba
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Sarah M. Sterling
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Shaun Rawson
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Morgan S.A. Gilman
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Huixin Xu
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Genevieve R. Nemeth
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Joseph D. Hurley
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Pengxiang Shen
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Dean P. Staus
- Department of Medicine and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Jihee Kim
- Department of Medicine and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Conor McMahon
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Maria K. Lehtinen
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Laura M. Wingler
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Andrew C. Kruse
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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34
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Provasi D, Filizola M. Enhancing Opioid Bioactivity Predictions through Integration of Ligand-Based and Structure-Based Drug Discovery Strategies with Transfer and Deep Learning Techniques. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.04.552065. [PMID: 37609329 PMCID: PMC10441297 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.04.552065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
The opioid epidemic has cast a shadow over public health, necessitating immediate action to address its devastating consequences. To effectively combat this crisis, it is crucial to discover better opioid drugs with reduced addiction potential. Artificial intelligence-based and other machine learning tools, particularly deep learning models, have garnered significant attention in recent years for their potential to advance drug discovery. However, utilizing these tools poses challenges, especially when training samples are insufficient to achieve adequate prediction performance. In this study, we investigate the effectiveness of transfer learning using combined ligand-based and structure-based molecular descriptors from the entire opioid receptor (OR) subfamily in building robust deep learning models for enhanced bioactivity prediction of opioid ligands at each individual OR subtype. Our studies hold the potential to greatly advance opioid research by enabling the rapid identification of novel chemical probes with specific bioactivities, which can aid in the study of receptor function and contribute to the future development of improved opioid therapeutics.
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35
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Lu X, Shi X, Fan J, Li M, Zhang Y, Lu S, Xu G, Chen Z. Mechanistic Elucidation of Activation/Deactivation Signal Transduction within Neurotensin Receptor 1 Triggered by 'Driver Chemical Groups' of Modulators: A Comparative Molecular Dynamics Simulation. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2000. [PMID: 37514186 PMCID: PMC10385606 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15072000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Small-molecule modulators of neurotensin receptor 1 (NTSR1), a class A G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), has emerged as promising therapeutic agent for psychiatric disorders and cancer. Interestingly, a chemical group substitution in NTSR1 modulators can launch different types of downstream regulation, highlighting the significance of deciphering the internal fine-tuning mechanism. Here, we conducted a synergistic application of a Gaussian accelerated molecular dynamics simulation, a conventional molecular dynamics simulation, and Markov state models (MSM) to investigate the underlying mechanism of 'driver chemical groups' of modulators triggering inverse signaling. The results indicated that the flexibility of the leucine moiety in NTSR1 agonists contributes to the inward displacement of TM7 through a loosely coupled allosteric pathway, while the rigidity of the adamantane moiety in NTSR1 antagonists leads to unfavorable downward transduction of agonistic signaling. Furthermore, we found that R3226.54, Y3196.51, F3537.42, R1483.32, S3567.45, and S3577.46 may play a key role in inducing the activation of NTSR1. Together, our findings not only highlight the ingenious signal transduction within class A GPCRs but also lay a foundation for the development of targeted drugs harboring different regulatory functions of NTSR1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Lu
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xinchao Shi
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Jigang Fan
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Mingyu Li
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yuxiang Zhang
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Shaoyong Lu
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Guanghuan Xu
- Department of VIP Clinic, Changhai Hospital, Affiliated to Navy Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Ziqiang Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Changhai Hospital, Affiliated to Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
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36
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Sánchez ML, Rodríguez FD, Coveñas R. Involvement of the Opioid Peptide Family in Cancer Progression. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1993. [PMID: 37509632 PMCID: PMC10377280 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptides mediate cancer progression favoring the mitogenesis, migration, and invasion of tumor cells, promoting metastasis and anti-apoptotic mechanisms, and facilitating angiogenesis/lymphangiogenesis. Tumor cells overexpress peptide receptors, crucial targets for developing specific treatments against cancer cells using peptide receptor antagonists and promoting apoptosis in tumor cells. Opioids exert an antitumoral effect, whereas others promote tumor growth and metastasis. This review updates the findings regarding the involvement of opioid peptides (enkephalins, endorphins, and dynorphins) in cancer development. Anticancer therapeutic strategies targeting the opioid peptidergic system and the main research lines to be developed regarding the topic reviewed are suggested. There is much to investigate about opioid peptides and cancer: basic information is scarce, incomplete, or absent in many tumors. This knowledge is crucial since promising anticancer strategies could be developed alone or in combination therapies with chemotherapy/radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Lisardo Sánchez
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy of the Peptidergic Systems, Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla and León (INCYL), University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Francisco D Rodríguez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Chemical Sciences, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Group GIR-USAL: BMD (Bases Moleculares del Desarrollo), University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Rafael Coveñas
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy of the Peptidergic Systems, Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla and León (INCYL), University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Group GIR-USAL: BMD (Bases Moleculares del Desarrollo), University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
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37
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Ullrich M, Brandt F, Löser R, Pietzsch J, Wodtke R. Comparative Saturation Binding Analysis of 64Cu-Labeled Somatostatin Analogues Using Cell Homogenates and Intact Cells. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:24003-24009. [PMID: 37426243 PMCID: PMC10324063 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c02755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
The development of novel ligands for G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) typically entails the characterization of their binding affinity, which is often performed with radioligands in a competition or saturation binding assay format. Since GPCRs are transmembrane proteins, receptor samples for binding assays are prepared from tissue sections, cell membranes, cell homogenates, or intact cells. As part of our investigations on modulating the pharmacokinetics of radiolabeled peptides for improved theranostic targeting of neuroendocrine tumors with a high abundance of the somatostatin receptor sub-type 2 (SST2), we characterized a series of 64Cu-labeled [Tyr3]octreotate (TATE) derivatives in vitro in saturation binding assays. Herein, we report on the SST2 binding parameters measured toward intact mouse pheochromocytoma cells and corresponding cell homogenates and discuss the observed differences taking the physiology of SST2 and GPCRs in general into account. Furthermore, we point out method-specific advantages and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Ullrich
- Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, Dresden 01328, Germany
| | - Florian Brandt
- Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, Dresden 01328, Germany
- School
of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Mommsenstraße 4, Dresden 01069, Germany
| | - Reik Löser
- Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, Dresden 01328, Germany
- School
of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Mommsenstraße 4, Dresden 01069, Germany
| | - Jens Pietzsch
- Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, Dresden 01328, Germany
- School
of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Mommsenstraße 4, Dresden 01069, Germany
| | - Robert Wodtke
- Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, Dresden 01328, Germany
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38
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Stalewski J, Shih AY, Papazyan R, Ramirez J, Ibanez G, Hsiao P, Yue Y, Yin J, Badger C, Wu S, Ueki A, Fuchs BC, Rives ML. pH Dependence of a GPR4 Selective Antagonist Hampers Its Therapeutic Potential. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2023; 386:35-44. [PMID: 37142444 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.122.001554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic mucosal inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and is associated with extracellular acidification of mucosal tissue. Several extracellular pH-sensing receptors, including G protein-coupled receptor 4 (GPR4), play an important role in the regulation of inflammatory and immune responses, and GPR4 deficiency has been shown to be protective in IBD animal models. To confirm the therapeutic potential of GPR4 antagonism in IBD, we tested Compound 13, a selective GPR4 antagonist, in the interleukin 10-/- mouse model of colitis. Despite good exposures and albeit there was a trend toward improvement for a few readouts, Compound 13 treatment did not improve colitis in this model, and there were no signs of target engagement. Interestingly, Compound 13 behaved as an "orthosteric" antagonist, i.e., its potency was pH dependent and mostly inactive at pH levels lower than 6.8 with preferential binding to the inactive conformation of GPR4. Mutagenesis studies confirmed Compound 13 likely binds to the conserved orthosteric binding site in G protein-coupled receptors, where a histidine sits in GPR4 likely preventing Compound 13 binding when protonated in acidic conditions. While the exact mucosal pH in the human disease and relevant IBD mice models is unknown, it is well established that the degree of acidosis is positively correlated with the degree of inflammation, suggesting Compound 13 is not an ideal tool to study the role of GPR4 in moderate to severe inflammatory conditions. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Compound 13, a reported selective GPR4 antagonist, has been widely used to assess the therapeutic potential of GPR4, a pH-sensing receptor, for numerous indications. Its pH dependence and mechanism of inhibition identified in this study clearly highlights the limitations of this chemotype for target validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Stalewski
- Departments of Chemistry (J.S.); Computer-Aided Drug Discovery (A.Y.S.); Gastroenterology (R.P., B.C.F.); Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology-Target Validation and Functional Genomics (J.R., M.-L.R.); In Vivo Pharmacology (G.I.); DMPK (P.H.); Computational Biology (Y.Y., J.Y., C.B.), Ferring Research Institute Inc., San Diego, California; and Biosensing Instrument, Tempe, Arizona (S.W., A.U.)
| | - Amy Y Shih
- Departments of Chemistry (J.S.); Computer-Aided Drug Discovery (A.Y.S.); Gastroenterology (R.P., B.C.F.); Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology-Target Validation and Functional Genomics (J.R., M.-L.R.); In Vivo Pharmacology (G.I.); DMPK (P.H.); Computational Biology (Y.Y., J.Y., C.B.), Ferring Research Institute Inc., San Diego, California; and Biosensing Instrument, Tempe, Arizona (S.W., A.U.)
| | - Romeo Papazyan
- Departments of Chemistry (J.S.); Computer-Aided Drug Discovery (A.Y.S.); Gastroenterology (R.P., B.C.F.); Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology-Target Validation and Functional Genomics (J.R., M.-L.R.); In Vivo Pharmacology (G.I.); DMPK (P.H.); Computational Biology (Y.Y., J.Y., C.B.), Ferring Research Institute Inc., San Diego, California; and Biosensing Instrument, Tempe, Arizona (S.W., A.U.)
| | - Jocelyn Ramirez
- Departments of Chemistry (J.S.); Computer-Aided Drug Discovery (A.Y.S.); Gastroenterology (R.P., B.C.F.); Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology-Target Validation and Functional Genomics (J.R., M.-L.R.); In Vivo Pharmacology (G.I.); DMPK (P.H.); Computational Biology (Y.Y., J.Y., C.B.), Ferring Research Institute Inc., San Diego, California; and Biosensing Instrument, Tempe, Arizona (S.W., A.U.)
| | - Gerardo Ibanez
- Departments of Chemistry (J.S.); Computer-Aided Drug Discovery (A.Y.S.); Gastroenterology (R.P., B.C.F.); Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology-Target Validation and Functional Genomics (J.R., M.-L.R.); In Vivo Pharmacology (G.I.); DMPK (P.H.); Computational Biology (Y.Y., J.Y., C.B.), Ferring Research Institute Inc., San Diego, California; and Biosensing Instrument, Tempe, Arizona (S.W., A.U.)
| | - Peng Hsiao
- Departments of Chemistry (J.S.); Computer-Aided Drug Discovery (A.Y.S.); Gastroenterology (R.P., B.C.F.); Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology-Target Validation and Functional Genomics (J.R., M.-L.R.); In Vivo Pharmacology (G.I.); DMPK (P.H.); Computational Biology (Y.Y., J.Y., C.B.), Ferring Research Institute Inc., San Diego, California; and Biosensing Instrument, Tempe, Arizona (S.W., A.U.)
| | - Yong Yue
- Departments of Chemistry (J.S.); Computer-Aided Drug Discovery (A.Y.S.); Gastroenterology (R.P., B.C.F.); Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology-Target Validation and Functional Genomics (J.R., M.-L.R.); In Vivo Pharmacology (G.I.); DMPK (P.H.); Computational Biology (Y.Y., J.Y., C.B.), Ferring Research Institute Inc., San Diego, California; and Biosensing Instrument, Tempe, Arizona (S.W., A.U.)
| | - Jun Yin
- Departments of Chemistry (J.S.); Computer-Aided Drug Discovery (A.Y.S.); Gastroenterology (R.P., B.C.F.); Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology-Target Validation and Functional Genomics (J.R., M.-L.R.); In Vivo Pharmacology (G.I.); DMPK (P.H.); Computational Biology (Y.Y., J.Y., C.B.), Ferring Research Institute Inc., San Diego, California; and Biosensing Instrument, Tempe, Arizona (S.W., A.U.)
| | - Calen Badger
- Departments of Chemistry (J.S.); Computer-Aided Drug Discovery (A.Y.S.); Gastroenterology (R.P., B.C.F.); Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology-Target Validation and Functional Genomics (J.R., M.-L.R.); In Vivo Pharmacology (G.I.); DMPK (P.H.); Computational Biology (Y.Y., J.Y., C.B.), Ferring Research Institute Inc., San Diego, California; and Biosensing Instrument, Tempe, Arizona (S.W., A.U.)
| | - Shije Wu
- Departments of Chemistry (J.S.); Computer-Aided Drug Discovery (A.Y.S.); Gastroenterology (R.P., B.C.F.); Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology-Target Validation and Functional Genomics (J.R., M.-L.R.); In Vivo Pharmacology (G.I.); DMPK (P.H.); Computational Biology (Y.Y., J.Y., C.B.), Ferring Research Institute Inc., San Diego, California; and Biosensing Instrument, Tempe, Arizona (S.W., A.U.)
| | - Akemi Ueki
- Departments of Chemistry (J.S.); Computer-Aided Drug Discovery (A.Y.S.); Gastroenterology (R.P., B.C.F.); Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology-Target Validation and Functional Genomics (J.R., M.-L.R.); In Vivo Pharmacology (G.I.); DMPK (P.H.); Computational Biology (Y.Y., J.Y., C.B.), Ferring Research Institute Inc., San Diego, California; and Biosensing Instrument, Tempe, Arizona (S.W., A.U.)
| | - Bryan C Fuchs
- Departments of Chemistry (J.S.); Computer-Aided Drug Discovery (A.Y.S.); Gastroenterology (R.P., B.C.F.); Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology-Target Validation and Functional Genomics (J.R., M.-L.R.); In Vivo Pharmacology (G.I.); DMPK (P.H.); Computational Biology (Y.Y., J.Y., C.B.), Ferring Research Institute Inc., San Diego, California; and Biosensing Instrument, Tempe, Arizona (S.W., A.U.)
| | - Marie-Laure Rives
- Departments of Chemistry (J.S.); Computer-Aided Drug Discovery (A.Y.S.); Gastroenterology (R.P., B.C.F.); Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology-Target Validation and Functional Genomics (J.R., M.-L.R.); In Vivo Pharmacology (G.I.); DMPK (P.H.); Computational Biology (Y.Y., J.Y., C.B.), Ferring Research Institute Inc., San Diego, California; and Biosensing Instrument, Tempe, Arizona (S.W., A.U.)
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Tabanelli R, Brogi S, Calderone V. Targeting Opioid Receptors in Addiction and Drug Withdrawal: Where Are We Going? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10888. [PMID: 37446064 PMCID: PMC10341731 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This review article offers an outlook on the use of opioids as therapeutics for treating several diseases, including cancer and non-cancer pain, and focuses the analysis on the opportunity to target opioid receptors for treating opioid use disorder (OUD), drug withdrawal, and addiction. Unfortunately, as has been well established, the use of opioids presents a plethora of side effects, such as tolerance and physical and physiological dependence. Accordingly, considering the great pharmacological potential in targeting opioid receptors, the identification of opioid receptor ligands devoid of most of the adverse effects exhibited by current therapeutic agents is highly necessary. To this end, herein, we analyze some interesting molecules that could potentially be useful for treating OUD, with an in-depth analysis regarding in vivo studies and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simone Brogi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (R.T.); (V.C.)
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Kong L, Ning K, Liu X, Lu J, Chen B, Ye R, Li Z, Jiang S, Tang S, Chai JR, Fang Y, Lan Y, Mai X, Xie Q, Liu J, Shao L, Fu W, Wang Y, Li W. Reversal of subtype-selectivity and function by the introduction of a para-benzamidyl substituent to N-cyclopropylmethyl nornepenthone. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 258:115589. [PMID: 37413884 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
The discovery and development of novel μ-opioid receptor (MOR) antagonists is a significant area to combat Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). In this work, a series of para-substituted N-cyclopropylmethyl-nornepenthone derivatives were designed and synthesized and pharmacologically assayed. Compound 6a was identified as a selective MOR antagonist both in vitro and in vivo. Its molecular basis was elucidated using molecular docking and MD simulations. A subpocket on the extracellular side of the TM2 domain of MOR, in particular the residue Y2.64, was proposed to be responsible for the reversal of subtype selectivity and functional reversal of this compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linghui Kong
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, No. 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Kuan Ning
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xiao Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, No. 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jiashuo Lu
- Department of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Baiyu Chen
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, No. 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Rongrong Ye
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Technology, Shanghai, 201418, China
| | - Zixiang Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, No. 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Shuang Jiang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Siyuan Tang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, No. 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jing-Rui Chai
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yun Fang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, No. 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yingjie Lan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, No. 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xiaobo Mai
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, No. 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Qiong Xie
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, No. 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jinggen Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Liming Shao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, No. 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University, No. 138 Yixueyuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Wei Fu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, No. 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yujun Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, Shandong, 264117, China.
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, No. 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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Amer M, Leka O, Jasko P, Frey D, Li X, Kammerer RA. A coiled-coil-based design strategy for the thermostabilization of G-protein-coupled receptors. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10159. [PMID: 37349348 PMCID: PMC10287670 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36855-1] [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: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Structure elucidation of inactive-state GPCRs still mostly relies on X-ray crystallography. The major goal of our work was to create a new GPCR tool that would provide receptor stability and additional soluble surface for crystallization. Towards this aim, we selected the two-stranded antiparallel coiled coil as a domain fold that satisfies both criteria. A selection of antiparallel coiled coils was used for structure-guided substitution of intracellular loop 3 of the β3 adrenergic receptor. Unexpectedly, only the two GPCR variants containing thermostable coiled coils were expressed. We showed that one GPCR chimera is stable upon purification in detergent, retains ligand-binding properties, and can be crystallized. However, the quality of the crystals was not suitable for structure determination. By using two other examples, 5HTR2C and α2BAR, we demonstrate that our approach is generally suitable for the stabilization of GPCRs. To provide additional surface for promoting crystal contacts, we replaced in a structure-based approach the loop connecting the antiparallel coiled coil by T4L. We found that the engineered GPCR is even more stable than the coiled-coil variant. Negative-staining TEM revealed a homogeneous distribution of particles, indicating that coiled-coil-T4L receptor variants might also be promising candidate proteins for structure elucidation by cryo-EM. Our approach should be of interest for applications that benefit from stable GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa Amer
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Research, Division of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232, Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Oneda Leka
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Research, Division of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232, Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Piotr Jasko
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Research, Division of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232, Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Frey
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Research, Division of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232, Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Xiaodan Li
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Research, Division of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232, Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Richard A Kammerer
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Research, Division of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232, Villigen PSI, Switzerland.
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Gusach A, García-Nafría J, Tate CG. New insights into GPCR coupling and dimerisation from cryo-EM structures. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2023; 80:102574. [PMID: 36963163 PMCID: PMC10423944 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2023.102574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023]
Abstract
Over the past three years (2020-2022) more structures of GPCRs have been determined than in the previous twenty years (2000-2019), primarily of GPCR complexes that are large enough for structure determination by single-particle cryo-EM. This review will present some structural highlights that have advanced our molecular understanding of promiscuous G protein coupling, how a G protein receptor kinase and β-arrestins couple to GPCRs, and GPCR dimerisation. We will also discuss advances in the use of gene fusions, nanobodies, and Fab fragments to facilitate the structure determination of GPCRs in the inactive state that, on their own, are too small for structure determination by single-particle cryo-EM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiia Gusach
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge CB2 2QH, UK. https://twitter.com/GusachAnastasia
| | - Javier García-Nafría
- Institute for Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI) and Laboratorio de Microscopías Avanzadas (LMA), University of Zaragoza, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain. https://twitter.com/JGarciaNafria
| | - Christopher G Tate
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge CB2 2QH, UK.
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Patel A, Marquez-Gomez PL, Torp LR, Gao L, Peralta-Yahya P. Insight into the Mode of Action of 8-Hydroxyquinoline-Based Blockers on the Histamine Receptor 2. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:571. [PMID: 37366936 PMCID: PMC10295836 DOI: 10.3390/bios13060571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Histamine receptor 2 (HRH2) blockers are used to treat peptic ulcers and gastric reflux. Chlorquinaldol and chloroxine, which contain an 8-hydroxyquinoline (8HQ) core, have recently been identified as blocking HRH2. To gain insight into the mode of action of 8HQ-based blockers, here, we leverage an HRH2-based sensor in yeast to evaluate the role of key residues in the HRH2 active site on histamine and 8HQ-based blocker binding. We find that the HRH2 mutations D98A, F254A, Y182A, and Y250A render the receptor inactive in the presence of histamine, while HRH2:D186A and HRH2:T190A retain residual activity. Based on molecular docking studies, this outcome correlates with the ability of the pharmacologically relevant histamine tautomers to interact with D98 via the charged amine. Docking studies also suggest that, unlike established HRH2 blockers that interact with both ends of the HRH2 binding site, 8HQ-based blockers interact with only one end, either the end framed by D98/Y250 or T190/D186. Experimentally, we find that chlorquinaldol and chloroxine still inactivate HRH2:D186A by shifting their engagement from D98 to Y250 in the case of chlorquinaldol and D186 to Y182 in the case of chloroxine. Importantly, the tyrosine interactions are supported by the intramolecular hydrogen bonding of the 8HQ-based blockers. The insight gained in this work will aid in the development of improved HRH2 therapeutics. More generally, this work demonstrates that Gprotein-coupled receptor (GPCR)-based sensors in yeast can help elucidate the mode of action of novel ligands for GPCRs, a family of receptors that bind 30% of FDA therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amisha Patel
- School of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Paola L Marquez-Gomez
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Lily R Torp
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Lily Gao
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Pamela Peralta-Yahya
- School of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
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Rodríguez FD, Sánchez ML, Coveñas R. Neurotensin and Alcohol Use Disorders: Towards a Pharmacological Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108656. [PMID: 37240004 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Harmful alcohol use is responsible for a group of disorders collectively named alcohol use disorders (AUDs), according to the DSM-5 classification. The damage induced by alcohol depends on the amount, time, and consumption patterns (continuous and heavy episodic drinking). It affects individual global well-being and social and familial environments with variable impact. Alcohol addiction manifests with different degrees of organ and mental health detriment for the individual, exhibiting two main traits: compulsive drinking and negative emotional states occurring at withdrawal, frequently causing relapse episodes. Numerous individual and living conditions, including the concomitant use of other psychoactive substances, lie in the complexity of AUD. Ethanol and its metabolites directly impact the tissues and may cause local damage or alter the homeostasis of brain neurotransmission, immunity scaffolding, or cell repair biochemical pathways. Brain modulator and neurotransmitter-assembled neurocircuitries govern reward, reinforcement, social interaction, and consumption of alcohol behaviors in an intertwined manner. Experimental evidence supports the participation of neurotensin (NT) in preclinical models of alcohol addiction. For example, NT neurons in the central nucleus of the amygdala projecting to the parabrachial nucleus strengthen alcohol consumption and preference. In addition, the levels of NT in the frontal cortex were found to be lower in rats bred to prefer alcohol to water in a free alcohol-water choice compared to wild-type animals. NT receptors 1 and 2 seem to be involved in alcohol consumption and alcohol effects in several models of knockout mice. This review aims to present an updated picture of the role of NT systems in alcohol addiction and the possible use of nonpeptide ligands modulating the activity of the NT system, applied to experimental animal models of harmful drinking behavior mimicking alcohol addiction leading to health ruin in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco D Rodríguez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Chemical Sciences, University of Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain
- Group GIR-USAL: BMD (Bases Moleculares del Desarrollo), University of Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Manuel Lisardo Sánchez
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy of the Peptidergic Systems, Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla and León (INCYL), University of Salamanca, C/Pintor Fernando Gallego 1, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Rafael Coveñas
- Group GIR-USAL: BMD (Bases Moleculares del Desarrollo), University of Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy of the Peptidergic Systems, Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla and León (INCYL), University of Salamanca, C/Pintor Fernando Gallego 1, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
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Li Z, Liu J, Dong F, Chang N, Huang R, Xia M, Patterson TA, Hong H. Three-Dimensional Structural Insights Have Revealed the Distinct Binding Interactions of Agonists, Partial Agonists, and Antagonists with the µ Opioid Receptor. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087042. [PMID: 37108204 PMCID: PMC10138646 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The United States is experiencing the most profound and devastating opioid crisis in history, with the number of deaths involving opioids, including prescription and illegal opioids, continuing to climb over the past two decades. This severe public health issue is difficult to combat as opioids remain a crucial treatment for pain, and at the same time, they are also highly addictive. Opioids act on the opioid receptor, which in turn activates its downstream signaling pathway that eventually leads to an analgesic effect. Among the four types of opioid receptors, the µ subtype is primarily responsible for the analgesic cascade. This review describes available 3D structures of the µ opioid receptor in the protein data bank and provides structural insights for the binding of agonists and antagonists to the receptor. Comparative analysis on the atomic details of the binding site in these structures was conducted and distinct binding interactions for agonists, partial agonists, and antagonists were observed. The findings in this article deepen our understanding of the ligand binding activity and shed some light on the development of novel opioid analgesics which may improve the risk benefit balance of existing opioids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Li
- National Center for Toxicological Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR 72079, USA
| | - Jie Liu
- National Center for Toxicological Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR 72079, USA
| | - Fan Dong
- National Center for Toxicological Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR 72079, USA
| | - Nancy Chang
- Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20903, USA
| | - Ruili Huang
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Menghang Xia
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Tucker A Patterson
- National Center for Toxicological Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR 72079, USA
| | - Huixiao Hong
- National Center for Toxicological Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR 72079, USA
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Liang H, Ma Z, Wang Z, Zhong P, Li R, Jiang H, Zong X, Zhong C, Liu X, Liu P, Liu J, Zhu H, Liu R, Ding Y. Structural Insights into the Binding of Red Fluorescent Protein mCherry-Specific Nanobodies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24086952. [PMID: 37108116 PMCID: PMC10138814 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24086952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Red fluorescent proteins (RFPs) have broad applications in life science research, and the manipulation of RFPs using nanobodies can expand their potential uses. However, the structural information available for nanobodies that bind with RFPs is still insufficient. In this study, we cloned, expressed, purified, and crystallized complexes formed by mCherry with LaM1, LaM3, and LaM8. Then, we analyzed the biochemical properties of the complexes using mass spectrometry (MS), fluorescence-detected size exclusion chromatography (FSEC), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), and bio-layer interferometry (BLI) technology. We determined the crystal structure of mCherry-LaM1, mCherry-LaM3, and mCherry-LaM8, with resolutions of 2.05 Å, 3.29 Å, and 1.31 Å, respectively. In this study, we systematically compared various parameters of several LaM series nanobodies, including LaM1, LaM3, and LaM8, with previously reported data on LaM2, LaM4, and LaM6, specifically examining their structural information. After designing multivalent tandem LaM1-LaM8 and LaM8-LaM4 nanobodies based on structural information, we characterized their properties, revealing their higher affinity and specificity to mCherry. Our research provides novel structural insights that could aid in understanding nanobodies targeting a specific target protein. This could provide a starting point for developing enhanced mCherry manipulation tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Zhiqiang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Ziying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Peiyu Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Ran Li
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - He Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Xin Zong
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Chao Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Xihuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Peng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Jiayuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Haoran Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Rui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Yu Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
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47
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Cao C, Roth BL. The structure, function, and pharmacology of MRGPRs. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:237-251. [PMID: 36870785 PMCID: PMC10066734 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor (MRGPR) family members play important roles in the sensation of noxious stimuli and represent novel targets for the treatment of itch and pain. MRGPRs recognize a diversity of agonists and display complicated downstream signaling profiles, high sequence diversity across species, and many polymorphisms in humans. The recent structural advances on MRGPRs reveal unique structural features and diverse agonist recognition modes of this receptor family, which should facilitate the structure-based drug discovery at MRGPRs. In addition, the newly discovered ligands also provide valuable tools to explore the function and the therapeutic potential of MRGPRs. In this review, we discuss these progresses in our understanding of MRGPRs and highlight the challenges and potential opportunities for the future drug discovery at these receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Can Cao
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Bryan L Roth
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eschelman School of Pharmacy and NIMH Psychoactive Drug Screening Program, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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48
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Gervasoni S, Guccione C, Fanti V, Bosin A, Cappellini G, Golosio B, Ruggerone P, Malloci G. Molecular simulations of SSTR2 dynamics and interaction with ligands. Sci Rep 2023; 13:4768. [PMID: 36959237 PMCID: PMC10036620 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-31823-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The cyclic peptide hormone somatostatin regulates physiological processes involved in growth and metabolism, through its binding to G-protein coupled somatostatin receptors. The isoform 2 (SSTR2) is of particular relevance for the therapy of neuroendocrine tumours for which different analogues to somatostatin are currently in clinical use. We present an extensive and systematic computational study on the dynamics of SSTR2 in three different states: active agonist-bound, inactive antagonist-bound and apo inactive. We exploited the recent burst of SSTR2 experimental structures to perform μs-long multi-copy molecular dynamics simulations to sample conformational changes of the receptor and rationalize its binding to different ligands (the agonists somatostatin and octreotide, and the antagonist CYN154806). Our findings suggest that the apo form is more flexible compared to the holo ones, and confirm that the extracellular loop 2 closes upon the agonist octreotide but not upon the antagonist CYN154806. Based on interaction fingerprint analyses and free energy calculations, we found that all peptides similarly interact with residues buried into the binding pocket. Conversely, specific patterns of interactions are found with residues located in the external portion of the pocket, at the basis of the extracellular loops, particularly distinguishing the agonists from the antagonist. This study will help in the design of new somatostatin-based compounds for theranostics of neuroendocrine tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Gervasoni
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Camilla Guccione
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Viviana Fanti
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Sezione di Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Andrea Bosin
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Giancarlo Cappellini
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Bruno Golosio
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Sezione di Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Paolo Ruggerone
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Giuliano Malloci
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy.
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49
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Dmitrieva DA, Kotova TV, Safronova NA, Sadova AA, Dashevskii DE, Mishin AV. Protein Design Strategies for the Structural–Functional Studies of G Protein-Coupled Receptors. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2023; 88:S192-S226. [PMID: 37069121 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297923140110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are an important family of membrane proteins responsible for many physiological functions in human body. High resolution GPCR structures are required to understand their molecular mechanisms and perform rational drug design, as GPCRs play a crucial role in a variety of diseases. That is difficult to obtain for the wild-type proteins because of their low stability. In this review, we discuss how this problem can be solved by using protein design strategies developed to obtain homogeneous stabilized GPCR samples for crystallization and cryoelectron microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria A Dmitrieva
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Tatiana V Kotova
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Nadezda A Safronova
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Alexandra A Sadova
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Dmitrii E Dashevskii
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia
| | - Alexey V Mishin
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia.
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50
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Cary BP, Zhang X, Cao J, Johnson RM, Piper SJ, Gerrard EJ, Wootten D, Sexton PM. New insights into the structure and function of class B1 GPCRs. Endocr Rev 2022; 44:492-517. [PMID: 36546772 PMCID: PMC10166269 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnac033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest family of cell surface receptors. Class B1 GPCRs constitute a subfamily of 15 receptors that characteristically contain large extracellular domains (ECDs) and respond to long polypeptide hormones. Class B1 GPCRs are critical regulators of homeostasis, and as such, many are important drug targets. While most transmembrane proteins, including GPCRs, are recalcitrant to crystallization, recent advances in electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) have facilitated a rapid expansion of the structural understanding of membrane proteins. As a testament to this success, structures for all the class B1 receptors bound to G proteins have been determined by cryo-EM in the past five years. Further advances in cryo-EM have uncovered dynamics of these receptors, ligands, and signalling partners. Here, we examine the recent structural underpinnings of the class B1 GPCRs with an emphasis on structure-function relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian P Cary
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,ARC Centre for Cryo-electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Xin Zhang
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,ARC Centre for Cryo-electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Jianjun Cao
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,ARC Centre for Cryo-electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Rachel M Johnson
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,ARC Centre for Cryo-electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Sarah J Piper
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,ARC Centre for Cryo-electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Elliot J Gerrard
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,ARC Centre for Cryo-electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Denise Wootten
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,ARC Centre for Cryo-electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Patrick M Sexton
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,ARC Centre for Cryo-electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
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