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Perisic M, Woolcock K, Hering A, Mendel H, Muttenthaler M. Oxytocin and vasopressin signaling in health and disease. Trends Biochem Sci 2024; 49:361-377. [PMID: 38418338 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2024.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Neurohypophysial peptides are ancient and evolutionarily highly conserved neuropeptides that regulate many crucial physiological functions in vertebrates and invertebrates. The human neurohypophysial oxytocin/vasopressin (OT/VP) signaling system with its four receptors has become an attractive drug target for a variety of diseases, including cancer, pain, cardiovascular indications, and neurological disorders. Despite its promise, drug development faces hurdles, including signaling complexity, selectivity and off-target concerns, translational interspecies differences, and inefficient drug delivery. In this review we dive into the complexity of the OT/VP signaling system in health and disease, provide an overview of relevant pharmacological probes, and discuss the latest trends in therapeutic lead discovery and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Perisic
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; Vienna Doctoral School in Chemistry, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Katrina Woolcock
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Anke Hering
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 4072 Brisbane, Australia
| | - Helen Mendel
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 4072 Brisbane, Australia
| | - Markus Muttenthaler
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 4072 Brisbane, Australia.
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2
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Nuti F, Larregola M, Staśkiewicz A, Retzl B, Tomašević N, Macchia L, Street ME, Jewgiński M, Lequin O, Latajka R, Rovero P, Gruber CW, Chorev M, Papini AM. Design, synthesis, conformational analysis, and biological activity of Cα 1-to-Cα 6 1,4- and 4,1-disubstituted 1 H-[1,2,3]triazol-1-yl-bridged oxytocin analogues. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2023; 38:2254019. [PMID: 37735942 PMCID: PMC10519257 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2023.2254019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) is a neurohypophyseal peptide hormone containing a disulphide-bridged pseudocyclic conformation. The biomedical use of OT peptides is limited amongst others by disadvantageous pharmacokinetic parameters. To increase the stability of OT by replacing the disulphide bridge with the stable and more rigid [1,2,3]triazol-1-yl moiety, we employed the Cu2+-catalysed side chain-to-side chain azide-alkyne 1,3-cycloaddition. Here we report the design, synthesis, conformational analysis, and in vitro pharmacological activity of a homologous series of Cα1-to-Cα6 side chain-to-side chain [1,2,3]triazol-1-yl-containing OT analogues differing in the length of the bridge, location, and orientation of the linking moiety. Exploiting this macrocyclisation approach, it was possible to generate a systematic series of compounds providing interesting insight into the structure-conformation-function relationship of OT. Most analogues were able to adopt similar conformation to endogenous OT in water, namely, a type I β-turn. This approach may in the future generate stabilised pharmacological peptide tools to advance understanding of OT physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Nuti
- Interdepartmental Research Unit of Peptide and Protein Chemistry and Biology, Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Maud Larregola
- CNRS, BioCIS, CY Cergy Paris Université, Cergy Pontoise and Paris Saclay Université, Orsay, France
| | - Agnieszka Staśkiewicz
- Interdepartmental Research Unit of Peptide and Protein Chemistry and Biology, Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Bernhard Retzl
- Institute of Pharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nataša Tomašević
- Institute of Pharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lorenzo Macchia
- Interdepartmental Research Unit of Peptide and Protein Chemistry and Biology, Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Maria E. Street
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Parma e Clinica Pediatrica, AOU di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Michał Jewgiński
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Olivier Lequin
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, Sorbonne Université, Ecole Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Rafal Latajka
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Paolo Rovero
- Interdepartmental Research Unit of Peptide and Protein Chemistry and Biology, Department of NeuroFarBa, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Christian W. Gruber
- Institute of Pharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Chorev
- Laboratory for Translational Research, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anna Maria Papini
- Interdepartmental Research Unit of Peptide and Protein Chemistry and Biology, Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
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3
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Cong X, Liu H, Zheng Y, Chen M. A Putative Role of Vasopressin/Oxytocin-Type Neuropeptide in Osmoregulation and Feeding Inhibition of Apostichopus japonicus. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14358. [PMID: 37762661 PMCID: PMC10532012 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814358] [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: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Vasopressin/oxytocin (VP/OT)-type neuropeptide is an ancient neurophysin-associated neuropeptide and has been intensively studied to be involved in multiple physiological processes in protostomian and deuterostome vertebrates. However, little is known about the functions of VP/OT-type neuropeptide in deuterostome invertebrates especially in echinoderms. Here, we firstly report VP/OT-type neuropeptide signaling in an important economic species, Apostichopus japonicus, which is widely cultured in Asia, with high nutritional and medicinal values. Molecular characterization analysis of holotocin and its precursor revealed the highly conserved features of VP/OT family. The candidate receptor for holotocin (AjHOR) was confirmed to be able to activate the signaling via cAMP-PKA and possible Ca2+-PKC pathway, and further activated the downstream ERK1/2 cascade. Holotocin precursor expression profile showed that they were mainly concentrated in circumoral nerve ring. Furthermore, in vitro pharmacological experiments demonstrated that holotocin caused contractile responses in preparations from A. japonicus. And in vivo functional studies indicated that short-term injection of holotocin resulted in body bloat and long-term injection resulted in reduced body mass, suggesting potential roles of holotocin in osmoregulation and feeding co-inhibition with holotocin-CCK. Our findings provided a comprehensive description of AjHOR-holotocin signaling, revealed ancient roles of holotocin in osmoregulation and feeding inhibition by controlling muscle contractions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Muyan Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; (X.C.); (H.L.); (Y.Z.)
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4
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Geier B, Gil-Mansilla E, Liutkevičiūtė Z, Hellinger R, Vanden Broeck J, Oetjen J, Liebeke M, Gruber CW. Multiplexed neuropeptide mapping in ant brains integrating microtomography and three-dimensional mass spectrometry imaging. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgad144. [PMID: 37215633 PMCID: PMC10194420 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Neuropeptides are important regulators of animal physiology and behavior. Hitherto the gold standard for the localization of neuropeptides have been immunohistochemical methods that require the synthesis of antibody panels, while another limiting factor has been the brain's opacity for subsequent in situ light or fluorescence microscopy. To address these limitations, we explored the integration of high-resolution mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) with microtomography for a multiplexed mapping of neuropeptides in two evolutionary distant ant species, Atta sexdens and Lasius niger. For analyzing the spatial distribution of chemically diverse peptide molecules across the brain in each species, the acquisition of serial mass spectrometry images was essential. As a result, we have comparatively mapped the three-dimensional (3D) distributions of eight conserved neuropeptides throughout the brain microanatomy. We demonstrate that integrating the 3D MSI data into high-resolution anatomy models can be critical for studying organs with high plasticity such as brains of social insects. Several peptides, like the tachykinin-related peptides (TK) 1 and 4, were widely distributed in many brain areas of both ant species, whereas others, for instance myosuppressin, were restricted to specific regions only. Also, we detected differences at the species level; many peptides were identified in the optic lobe of L. niger, but only one peptide (ITG-like) was found in this region in A. sexdens. Building upon MS imaging studies on neuropeptides in invertebrate model systems, our approach leverages correlative MSI and computed microtomography for investigating fundamental neurobiological processes by visualizing the unbiased 3D neurochemistry in its complex anatomic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zita Liutkevičiūtė
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Roland Hellinger
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Jozef Vanden Broeck
- Molecular Developmental Physiology and Signal Transduction Group, Zoological Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Janina Oetjen
- To whom correspondence should be addressed: (J.O.); (M.L.); (C.W.G.)
| | - Manuel Liebeke
- To whom correspondence should be addressed: (J.O.); (M.L.); (C.W.G.)
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Abstract
While there is not a wide range of pregnancy-specific drugs, there are some very specific high-risk areas of obstetric care for which unique pharmacological approaches have been established. In preterm birth, labor induction and augmentation, and the management of postpartum hemorrhage, these pharmacological approaches have become the bedrock in managing some of the most common and problematic areas of antenatal and intrapartum care. In this review, we summarize the existing established and emerging evidence that supports and broadens these pharmacological approaches to obstetric management and its impact on clinical practice. It is clear that existing therapeutics are limited. They have largely been developed from our knowledge of the physiology of the myometrium and act on hormonal receptors and their signaling pathways or on ion channels influencing excitability. Newer drugs in development are mostly refinements of these two approaches, but novel agents from plants and improved formulations are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Wray
- Women's & Children's Health, Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom;
| | - Sarah Arrowsmith
- Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Sharp
- Women's & Children's Health, Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom;
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Kim YJ, Lee JH, Jung SH, Kim KH, Choi CH, Jo S, Woo DH. An Octopus-Derived Peptide with Antidiuretic Activity in Rats. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:328. [PMID: 35621979 PMCID: PMC9144402 DOI: 10.3390/md20050328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Discovering new drug candidates with high efficacy and few side effects is a major challenge in new drug development. The two evolutionarily related peptides oxytocin (OXT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) are known to be associated with a variety of physiological and psychological processes via the association of OXT with three types of AVP receptors. Over decades, many synthetic analogs of these peptides have been designed and tested for therapeutic applications; however, only a few studies of their natural analogs have been performed. In this study, we investigated the bioactivity and usefulness of two natural OXT/AVP analogs that originate from the marine invertebrate Octopus vulgaris, named octopressin (OTP) and cephalotocin (CPT). By measuring the intracellular Ca2+ or cyclic AMP increase in each OXT/AVP receptor subtype-overexpressing cell, we found that CPT, but not OTP, acts as a selective agonist of human AVP type 1b and 2 receptors. This behavior is reminiscent of desmopressin, the most widely prescribed antidiuretic drug in the world. Similar to the case for desmopressin, a single intravenous tail injection of CPT into Sprague-Dawley rats reduced urine output and increased urinary osmolality. In conclusion, we suggest that CPT has a significant antidiuretic effect and that CPT might be beneficial for treating urological conditions such as nocturia, enuresis, and diabetes insipidus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye-Ji Kim
- Research Center for Convergence Toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 34114, Korea; (Y.-J.K.); (C.-H.C.)
- Human and Environmental Toxicology, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34114, Korea
| | - Jei Ha Lee
- Department of Genetic Resources, National Marine Biodiversity Institute of Korea, Seocheon 33662, Korea; (J.H.L.); (S.-H.J.); (K.H.K.)
| | - Seung-Hyun Jung
- Department of Genetic Resources, National Marine Biodiversity Institute of Korea, Seocheon 33662, Korea; (J.H.L.); (S.-H.J.); (K.H.K.)
| | - Ki Hyun Kim
- Department of Genetic Resources, National Marine Biodiversity Institute of Korea, Seocheon 33662, Korea; (J.H.L.); (S.-H.J.); (K.H.K.)
| | - Chang-Hoon Choi
- Research Center for Convergence Toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 34114, Korea; (Y.-J.K.); (C.-H.C.)
| | - Seonmi Jo
- Department of Genetic Resources, National Marine Biodiversity Institute of Korea, Seocheon 33662, Korea; (J.H.L.); (S.-H.J.); (K.H.K.)
| | - Dong Ho Woo
- Research Center for Convergence Toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 34114, Korea; (Y.-J.K.); (C.-H.C.)
- Human and Environmental Toxicology, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34114, Korea
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7
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Che K, Muttenthaler M, Kurzbach D. Conformational selection of vasopressin upon V 1a receptor binding. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2021; 19:5826-5833. [PMID: 34765097 PMCID: PMC8567363 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2021.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuropeptide vasopressin (VP) and its three G protein-coupled receptors (V1aR, V1bR and V2R) are of high interest in a wide array of drug discovery programs. V1aR is of particular importance due to its cardiovascular functions and diverse roles in the central nervous system. The structure–activity relationships underpinning ligand-receptor interactions remain however largely unclear, hindering rational drug design. This is not least due to the high structural flexibility of VP in its free as well as receptor-bound states. In this work, we developed a novel approach to reveal features of conformational selectivity upon VP-V1aR complex formation. We employed virtual screening strategies to probe VP’s conformational space for transiently adopted structures that favor binding to V1aR. To this end, we dissected the VP conformational space into three sub-ensembles, each containing distinct structural sets for VP’s three-residue C-terminal tail. We validated the computational results with experimental nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data and docked each sub-ensemble to V1aR. We observed that the conformation of VP’s three-residue tail significantly modulated the complex dissociation constants. Solvent-exposed and proline trans-configured VP tail conformations bound to the receptor with three-fold enhanced affinities compared to compacted or cis-configured conformations. The solvent-exposed and more flexible structures facilitated unique interaction patterns between VP and V1aR transmembrane helices 3, 4, and 6 which led to high binding energies. The presented “virtual conformational space screening” approach, integrated with NMR spectroscopy, thus enabled identification and characterization of a conformational selection-type complex formation mechanism that confers novel perspectives on targeting the VP-V1aR interactions at the level of the encounter complex – an aspect that opens novel research avenues for understanding the functionality of the evolutionary selected conformational properties of VP, as well as guidance for ligand design strategies to provide more potent and selective VP analogues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kateryna Che
- University Vienna, Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Biological Chemistry, Währinger Str. 38, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Muttenthaler
- University Vienna, Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Biological Chemistry, Währinger Str. 38, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
- The University of Queensland, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, 306 Carmody Rd, 4072 St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Dennis Kurzbach
- University Vienna, Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Biological Chemistry, Währinger Str. 38, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
- Corresponding author.
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8
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Muratspahić E, Retzl B, Duerrauer L, Freissmuth M, Becker CFW, Gruber CW. Genome Mining-Based Discovery of Blenny Fish-Derived Peptides Targeting the Mouse κ-Opioid Receptor. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:773029. [PMID: 34744752 PMCID: PMC8569185 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.773029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past years, peptides have attracted increasing interest for G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) drug discovery and development. Peptides occupy a unique chemical space that is not easily accessible for small molecules and antibodies and provide advantages over these ligand classes such as lower toxicity and higher selectivity. The κ-opioid receptor (KOR) is a prototypic GPCR and an appealing therapeutic target for the development of safer and more effective analgesics. Recently, peptides have emerged as analgesic drug candidates with improved side effect profiles. We have previously identified plant-derived peptides, which activate KOR. Based on this precedent, here we relied on publicly available databases to discover novel KOR peptide ligands by genome mining. Using human preprodynorphin as a query, we identified blenny fish-derived peptides, referred to as blenniorphins, capable of binding to and activating KOR with nanomolar affinity and potency, respectively. Additionally, the blenniorphins altered β-arrestin-2 recruitment at the KOR. Our study demonstrates the utility of genome mining to identify peptide GPCR ligands with intriguing pharmacological properties and unveils the potential of blenny fishes as a source for novel KOR ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edin Muratspahić
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bernhard Retzl
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Leopold Duerrauer
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Freissmuth
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Gaston H. Glock Research Laboratories for Exploratory Drug Development, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian F. W. Becker
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian W. Gruber
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Human Myometrial Contractility Assays. Methods Mol Biol 2021. [PMID: 34550566 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1759-5_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
Traditional contractility assays using an organ bath setup consist of several chambers (or baths) perfused with temperature-controlled, oxygenated physiological saline. Strips or rings of tissue (usually smooth or cardiac muscle) are mounted within the organ bath between a fixed hook and an isometric force transducer. The contraction force is recorded by the transducer and different parameters of contraction are analyzed. Different experimental protocols can be performed to investigate the effect of drugs and reagents on tissue contractility to investigate tissue physiology or determine the in vivo potential of novel pharmaceutical compounds. Here, the application of a modified organ bath to measure ex vivo contractions of small strips of human uterine smooth muscle (myometrium) is described, as well as protocols to study the effect of oxytocin and uterine relaxants on contraction.
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10
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Fetter-Pruneda I, Hart T, Ulrich Y, Gal A, Oxley PR, Olivos-Cisneros L, Ebert MS, Kazmi MA, Garrison JL, Bargmann CI, Kronauer DJC. An oxytocin/vasopressin-related neuropeptide modulates social foraging behavior in the clonal raider ant. PLoS Biol 2021; 19:e3001305. [PMID: 34191794 PMCID: PMC8244912 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3001305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin/vasopressin-related neuropeptides are highly conserved and play major roles in regulating social behavior across vertebrates. However, whether their insect orthologue, inotocin, regulates the behavior of social groups remains unknown. Here, we show that in the clonal raider ant Ooceraea biroi, individuals that perform tasks outside the nest have higher levels of inotocin in their brains than individuals of the same age that remain inside the nest. We also show that older ants, which spend more time outside the nest, have higher inotocin levels than younger ants. Inotocin thus correlates with the propensity to perform tasks outside the nest. Additionally, increasing inotocin pharmacologically increases the tendency of ants to leave the nest. However, this effect is contingent on age and social context. Pharmacologically treated older ants have a higher propensity to leave the nest only in the presence of larvae, whereas younger ants seem to do so only in the presence of pupae. Our results suggest that inotocin signaling plays an important role in modulating behaviors that correlate with age, such as social foraging, possibly by modulating behavioral response thresholds to specific social cues. Inotocin signaling thereby likely contributes to behavioral individuality and division of labor in ant societies. The neuropeptides oxytocin and vasopressin modulate social behavior in vertebrates, but their function in invertebrates is not well understood. Using brain staining and pharmacological manipulations, this study shows that a related neuropeptide, inotocin, affects how ants respond to larvae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Fetter-Pruneda
- Laboratory of Social Evolution and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
- * E-mail: (IFP); (DJCK)
| | - Taylor Hart
- Laboratory of Social Evolution and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Yuko Ulrich
- Laboratory of Social Evolution and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
- Institute for Integrative Biology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Asaf Gal
- Laboratory of Social Evolution and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Peter R. Oxley
- Laboratory of Social Evolution and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
- Samuel J. Wood Library, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Leonora Olivos-Cisneros
- Laboratory of Social Evolution and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Margaret S. Ebert
- Lulu and Anthony Wang Laboratory of Neural Circuits and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Manija A. Kazmi
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Signal Transduction, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Jennifer L. Garrison
- Lulu and Anthony Wang Laboratory of Neural Circuits and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, California, United States of America
| | - Cornelia I. Bargmann
- Lulu and Anthony Wang Laboratory of Neural Circuits and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
- Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, Redwood City, California, United States of America
| | - Daniel J. C. Kronauer
- Laboratory of Social Evolution and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail: (IFP); (DJCK)
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11
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Liu N, Wang Y, Li T, Feng X. G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs): Signaling Pathways, Characterization, and Functions in Insect Physiology and Toxicology. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22105260. [PMID: 34067660 PMCID: PMC8156084 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are known to play central roles in the physiology of many organisms. Members of this seven α-helical transmembrane protein family transduce the extracellular signals and regulate intracellular second messengers through coupling to heterotrimeric G-proteins, adenylate cyclase, cAMPs, and protein kinases. As a result of the critical function of GPCRs in cell physiology and biochemistry, they not only play important roles in cell biology and the medicines used to treat a wide range of human diseases but also in insects’ physiological functions. Recent studies have revealed the expression and function of GPCRs in insecticide resistance, improving our understanding of the molecular complexes governing the development of insecticide resistance. This article focuses on the review of G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling pathways in insect physiology, including insects’ reproduction, growth and development, stress responses, feeding, behaviors, and other physiological processes. Hormones and polypeptides that are involved in insect GPCR regulatory pathways are reviewed. The review also gives a brief introduction of GPCR pathways in organisms in general. At the end of the review, it provides the recent studies on the function of GPCRs in the development of insecticide resistance, focusing in particular on our current knowledge of the expression and function of GPCRs and their downstream regulation pathways and their roles in insecticide resistance and the regulation of resistance P450 gene expression. The latest insights into the exciting technological advances and new techniques for gene expression and functional characterization of the GPCRs in insects are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nannan Liu
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (Y.W.); (T.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-334-844-5076
| | - Yifan Wang
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (Y.W.); (T.L.)
| | - Ting Li
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (Y.W.); (T.L.)
| | - Xuechun Feng
- Department of Biology Sciences, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA;
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12
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Dekan Z, Kremsmayr T, Keov P, Godin M, Teakle N, Dürrauer L, Xiang H, Gharib D, Bergmayr C, Hellinger R, Gay M, Vilaseca M, Kurzbach D, Albericio F, Alewood PF, Gruber CW, Muttenthaler M. Nature-inspired dimerization as a strategy to modulate neuropeptide pharmacology exemplified with vasopressin and oxytocin. Chem Sci 2021; 12:4057-4062. [PMID: 34163676 PMCID: PMC8179488 DOI: 10.1039/d0sc05501h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasopressin (VP) and oxytocin (OT) are cyclic neuropeptides that regulate fundamental physiological functions via four G protein-coupled receptors, V1aR, V1bR, V2R, and OTR. Ligand development remains challenging for these receptors due to complex structure–activity relationships. Here, we investigated dimerization as a strategy for developing ligands with novel pharmacology. We regioselectively synthesised and systematically studied parallel, antiparallel and N- to C-terminal cyclized homo- and heterodimer constructs of VP, OT and dVDAVP (1-deamino-4-valine-8-d-arginine-VP). All disulfide-linked dimers, except for the head-to-tail cyclized constructs, retained nanomolar potency despite the structural implications of dimerization. Our results support a single chain interaction for receptor activation. Dimer orientation had little impact on activity, except for the dVDAVP homodimers, where an antagonist to agonist switch was observed at the V1aR. This study provides novel insights into the structural requirements of VP/OT receptor activation and spotlights dimerization as a strategy to modulate pharmacology, a concept also frequently observed in nature. Structural and pharmacological study of parallel, antiparallel and N- to C-terminal cyclized homo- and heterodimers of vasopressin and oxytocin. This study spotlights dimerization as a strategy to modulate the pharmacology of neuropeptides.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltan Dekan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland Brisbane 4072 Australia
| | - Thomas Kremsmayr
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, University of Vienna Währingerstraße 38 1090 Vienna Austria
| | - Peter Keov
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland Brisbane 4072 Australia
| | - Mathilde Godin
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland Brisbane 4072 Australia
| | - Ngari Teakle
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland Brisbane 4072 Australia
| | - Leopold Dürrauer
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, University of Vienna Währingerstraße 38 1090 Vienna Austria
| | - Huang Xiang
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna Schwarzspanierstraße 17 1090 Vienna Austria
| | - Dalia Gharib
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna Schwarzspanierstraße 17 1090 Vienna Austria
| | - Christian Bergmayr
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna Schwarzspanierstraße 17 1090 Vienna Austria
| | - Roland Hellinger
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna Schwarzspanierstraße 17 1090 Vienna Austria
| | - Marina Gay
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine Barcelona C/ Baldiri Reixac 10 08028 Barcelona Spain
| | - Marta Vilaseca
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine Barcelona C/ Baldiri Reixac 10 08028 Barcelona Spain
| | - Dennis Kurzbach
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, University of Vienna Währingerstraße 38 1090 Vienna Austria
| | - Fernando Albericio
- Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Barcelona Barcelona Science Park, Baldiri Reixac 10 08028 Barcelona Spain
| | - Paul F Alewood
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland Brisbane 4072 Australia
| | - Christian W Gruber
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland Brisbane 4072 Australia.,Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna Schwarzspanierstraße 17 1090 Vienna Austria
| | - Markus Muttenthaler
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland Brisbane 4072 Australia .,Institute of Biological Chemistry, University of Vienna Währingerstraße 38 1090 Vienna Austria
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13
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Vasopressin-stimulated ORAI1 expression and store-operated Ca 2+ entry in aortic smooth muscle cells. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 99:373-382. [PMID: 33409552 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-020-02016-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Vascular calcification may result from stimulation of osteogenic signalling with upregulation of the transcription factors CBFA1, MSX2 and SOX9, as well as alkaline phosphatase (ALPL), which degrades and thus inactivates the calcification inhibitor pyrophosphate. Osteogenic signalling further involves upregulation of the Ca2+-channel ORAI1. The channel is activated by STIM1 and then accomplishes store-operated Ca2+ entry. ORAI1 and STIM1 are upregulated by the serum & glucocorticoid inducible kinase 1 (SGK1) which is critically important for osteogenic signalling. Stimulators of vascular calcification include vasopressin. The present study explored whether exposure of human aortic smooth muscle cells (HAoSMCs) to vasopressin upregulates ORAI1 and/or STIM1 expression, store-operated Ca2+ entry and osteogenic signalling. To this end, HAoSMCs were exposed to vasopressin (100 nM, 24 h) without or with additional exposure to ORAI1 blocker MRS1845 (10 μM) or SGK1 inhibitor GSK-650394 (1 μM). Transcript levels were measured using q-RT-PCR, cytosolic Ca2+-concentration ([Ca2+]i) by Fura-2-fluorescence, and store-operated Ca2+ entry from increase of [Ca2+]i following re-addition of extracellular Ca2+ after store depletion with thapsigargin (1 μM). As a result, vasopressin enhanced the transcript levels of ORAI1 and STIM1, store-operated Ca2+ entry, as well as the transcript levels of CBFA1, MSX2, SOX9 and ALPL. The effect of vasopressin on store-operated Ca2+ entry as well as on transcript levels of CBFA1, MSX2, SOX9 and ALPL was virtually abrogated by MRS1845 and GSK-650394. In conclusion, vasopressin stimulates expression of ORAI1/STIM1, thus augmenting store-operated Ca2+ entry and osteogenic signalling. In HAoSMCs, vasopressin (VP) upregulates Ca2+ channel ORAI1 and its activator STIM1. VP upregulates store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) and osteogenic signalling (OS). VP-induced SOCE, OS and Ca2+-deposition are disrupted by ORAI1 inhibitor MRS1845. VP-induced SOCE, OS and Ca2+-deposition are disrupted by SGK1 blocker GSK-650394. KEY MESSAGES: • In HAoSMCs, vasopressin (VP) upregulates Ca2+ channel ORAI1 and its activator STIM1. • VP upregulates store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) and osteogenic signalling (OS). • VP-induced SOCE, OS and Ca2+-deposition are disrupted by ORAI1 inhibitor MRS1845. • VP-induced SOCE, OS and Ca2+-deposition are disrupted by SGK1 blocker GSK-650394.
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14
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Mendel HC, Kaas Q, Muttenthaler M. Neuropeptide signalling systems - An underexplored target for venom drug discovery. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 181:114129. [PMID: 32619425 PMCID: PMC7116218 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Neuropeptides are signalling molecules mainly secreted from neurons that act as neurotransmitters or peptide hormones to affect physiological processes and modulate behaviours. In humans, neuropeptides are implicated in numerous diseases and understanding their role in physiological processes and pathologies is important for therapeutic development. Teasing apart the (patho)physiology of neuropeptides remains difficult due to ligand and receptor promiscuity and the complexity of the signalling pathways. The current approach relies on a pharmacological toolbox of agonists and antagonists displaying high selectivity for independent receptor subtypes, with the caveat that only few selective ligands have been discovered or developed. Animal venoms represent an underexplored source for novel receptor subtype-selective ligands that could aid in dissecting human neuropeptide signalling systems. Multiple endogenous-like neuropeptides as well as peptides acting on neuropeptide receptors are present in venoms. In this review, we summarise current knowledge on neuropeptides and discuss venoms as a source for ligands targeting neuropeptide signalling systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen C Mendel
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Quentin Kaas
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Markus Muttenthaler
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; University of Vienna, Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Biological Chemistry, Vienna, Austria.
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15
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Liu H, Gruber CW, Alewood PF, Möller A, Muttenthaler M. The oxytocin receptor signalling system and breast cancer: a critical review. Oncogene 2020; 39:5917-5932. [PMID: 32782397 PMCID: PMC7483001 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-01415-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is making up one-quarter of all new female cancer cases diagnosed worldwide. Breast cancer surgeries, radiation therapies, cytotoxic chemotherapies and targeted therapies have made significant progress and play a dominant role in breast cancer patient management. However, many challenges remain, including resistance to systemic therapies, tumour recurrence and metastasis. The cyclic neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) elicits a plethora of biological responses via the oxytocin receptor (OTR) in both the central and peripheral nervous system, including social bonding, stress, maternal behaviour, sexual activity, uterus contraction, milk ejection and cancer. As a typical member of the G protein-coupled receptor family, OTR represents also an intriguing target for cancer therapy. There is emerging evidence that OTR plays a role in breast cancer development and progression, and several breast cancer cell lines express OTR. However, despite supporting evidence that OT lowers breast cancer risks, its mechanistic role in breast cancer development and the related signalling pathways are not fully understood. Here, we review the current knowledge of the OT/OTR signalling system in healthy breast tissue as well as in breast cancer, and discuss OTR as a potential therapeutic target for breast cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiping Liu
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Christian W Gruber
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Paul F Alewood
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Andreas Möller
- Tumour Microenvironment Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Markus Muttenthaler
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia. .,Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
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16
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Odekunle EA, Elphick MR. Comparative and Evolutionary Physiology of Vasopressin/ Oxytocin-Type Neuropeptide Signaling in Invertebrates. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:225. [PMID: 32362874 PMCID: PMC7181382 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of structurally related hypothalamic hormones that regulate blood pressure and diuresis (vasopressin, VP; CYFQNCPRG-NH2) or lactation and uterine contraction (oxytocin, OT; CYIQNCPLG-NH2) was a major advance in neuroendocrinology, recognized in the award of the Nobel Prize for Chemistry in 1955. Furthermore, the discovery of central actions of VP and OT as regulators of reproductive and social behavior in humans and other mammals has broadened interest in these neuropeptides beyond physiology into psychology. VP/OT-type neuropeptides and their G-protein coupled receptors originated in a common ancestor of the Bilateria (Urbilateria), with invertebrates typically having a single VP/OT-type neuropeptide and cognate receptor. Gene/genome duplications followed by gene loss gave rise to variety in the number of VP/OT-type neuropeptides and receptors in different vertebrate lineages. Recent advances in comparative transcriptomics/genomics have enabled discovery of VP/OT-type neuropeptides in an ever-growing diversity of invertebrate taxa, providing new opportunities to gain insights into the evolution of VP/OT-type neuropeptide function in the Bilateria. Here we review the comparative physiology of VP/OT-type neuropeptides in invertebrates, with roles in regulation of reproduction, feeding, and water/salt homeostasis emerging as common themes. For example, we highlight recent reports of roles in regulation of oocyte maturation in the sea-squirt Ciona intestinalis, extraoral feeding behavior in the starfish Asterias rubens and energy status and dessication resistance in ants. Thus, VP/OT-type neuropeptides are pleiotropic regulators of physiological processes, with evolutionarily conserved roles that can be traced back to Urbilateria. To gain a deeper understanding of the evolution of VP/OT-type neuropeptide function it may be necessary to not only determine the actions of the peptides but also to characterize the transcriptomic/proteomic/metabolomic profiles of cells expressing VP/OT-type precursors and/or VP/OT-type receptors within the framework of anatomically and functionally identified neuronal networks. Furthermore, investigation of VP/OT-type neuropeptide function in a wider range of invertebrate species is now needed if we are to determine how and when this ancient signaling system was recruited to regulate diverse physiological and behavioral processes in different branches of animal phylogeny and in contrasting environmental contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maurice R. Elphick
- School of Biological & Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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17
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Abstract
The origin of the oxytocin (OT)/vasopressin (VP) signaling system is thought to date back more than 600million years. OT/VP-like peptides have been identified in numerous invertebrate phyla including molluscs, annelids, nematodes and insects. However, to date we only have a limited understanding of the biological role(s) of this GPCR-mediated signaling system in insects. This chapter presents the current knowledge of OT/VP-like neuropeptide signaling in insects by providing a brief overview of insect OT/VP-like neuropeptides, their genetic and structural commonalities, and their experimentally tested and proposed functions. Despite their widespread occurrence across insect orders these peptides (and their endogenous receptors) appear to be absent in common insect model species, such as flies and bees. We therefore explain the known functionalities of this signaling system in three different insect model systems: beetles, locusts, and ants. Additionally, we review the phylogenetic distribution of the OT/VP signaling system in arthropods as obtained from extensive genome/transcriptome mining. Finally, we discuss the unique challenges in the development of selective OT/VP ligands for human receptors and share our perspective on the possible application of insect- and other non-mammalian-derived OT/VP-like peptide ligands in pharmacology.
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18
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Duerrauer L, Muratspahić E, Gattringer J, Keov P, Mendel HC, Pfleger KDG, Muttenthaler M, Gruber CW. I8-arachnotocin-an arthropod-derived G protein-biased ligand of the human vasopressin V 2 receptor. Sci Rep 2019; 9:19295. [PMID: 31848378 PMCID: PMC6917733 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55675-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuropeptides oxytocin (OT) and vasopressin (VP) and their G protein-coupled receptors OTR, V1aR, V1bR, and V2R form an important and widely-distributed neuroendocrine signaling system. In mammals, this signaling system regulates water homeostasis, blood pressure, reproduction, as well as social behaviors such as pair bonding, trust and aggression. There exists high demand for ligands with differing pharmacological profiles to study the physiological and pathological functions of the individual receptor subtypes. Here, we present the pharmacological characterization of an arthropod (Metaseiulus occidentalis) OT/VP-like nonapeptide across the human OT/VP receptors. I8-arachnotocin is a full agonist with respect to second messenger signaling at human V2R (EC50 34 nM) and V1bR (EC50 1.2 µM), a partial agonist at OTR (EC50 790 nM), and a competitive antagonist at V1aR [pA2 6.25 (558 nM)]. Intriguingly, I8-arachnotocin activated the Gαs pathway of V2R without recruiting either β-arrestin-1 or β-arrestin-2. I8-arachnotocin might thus be a novel pharmacological tool to study the (patho)physiological relevance of β-arrestin-1 or -2 recruitment to the V2R. These findings furthermore highlight arthropods as a novel, vast and untapped source for the discovery of novel pharmacological probes and potential drug leads targeting neurohormone receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leopold Duerrauer
- Institute of Pharmacology, Center for Pharmacology and Physiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Edin Muratspahić
- Institute of Pharmacology, Center for Pharmacology and Physiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jasmin Gattringer
- Institute of Pharmacology, Center for Pharmacology and Physiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Keov
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helen C Mendel
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kevin D G Pfleger
- Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia and Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Markus Muttenthaler
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian W Gruber
- Institute of Pharmacology, Center for Pharmacology and Physiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria. .,School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
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19
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Fam BSO, Reales G, Vargas-Pinilla P, Paré P, Viscardi LH, Sortica VA, Felkl AB, de O Franco Á, Lucion AB, Costa-Neto CM, Pissinatti A, Salzano FM, Paixão-Côrtes VR, Bortolini MC. AVPR1b variation and the emergence of adaptive phenotypes in Platyrrhini primates. Am J Primatol 2019; 81:e23028. [PMID: 31318063 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.23028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Platyrrhini (New World monkeys, NWm) are a group of primates characterized by behavioral and reproductive traits that are otherwise uncommon among primates, including social monogamy, direct paternal care, and twin births. As a consequence, the study of Platyrrhine primates is an invaluable tool for the discovery of the genetic repertoire underlying these taxon-specific traits. Recently, high conservation of vasopressin (AVP) sequence, in contrast with high variability of oxytocin (OXT), has been described in NWm. AVP and OXT functions are possible due to interaction with their receptors: AVPR1a, AVPR1b, AVPR2, and OXTR; and the variability in this system is associated with the traits mentioned above. Understanding the variability in the receptors is thus fundamental to understand the function and evolution of the system as a whole. Here we describe the variability of AVPR1b coding region in 20 NWm species, which is well-known to influence behavioral traits such as aggression, anxiety, and stress control in placental mammals. Our results indicate that 4% of AVPR1b sites may be under positive selection and a significant number of sites under relaxed selective constraint. Considering the known role of AVPR1b, we suggest that some of the changes described here for the Platyrrhini may be a part of the genetic repertoire connected with the complex network of neuroendocrine mechanisms of AVP-OXT system in the modulation of the HPA axis. Thus, these changes may have promoted the emergence of social behaviors such as direct paternal care in socially monogamous species that are also characterized by small body size and twin births.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibiana S O Fam
- Departamento de Genética, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Guillermo Reales
- Departamento de Genética, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.,INAGEMP - Instituto de Genética Médica e Populacional, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Pedro Vargas-Pinilla
- Departamento de Genética, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Pamela Paré
- Departamento de Genética, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Lucas H Viscardi
- Departamento de Genética, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Vinicius A Sortica
- Departamento de Genética, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Aline B Felkl
- Departamento de Genética, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Álvaro de O Franco
- Departamento de Genética, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Aldo B Lucion
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Claudio M Costa-Neto
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Francisco M Salzano
- Departamento de Genética, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Vanessa R Paixão-Côrtes
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Maria Cátira Bortolini
- Departamento de Genética, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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20
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Brož B, Marek A. Tritiodefluorination of alkyl C-F groups. J Labelled Comp Radiopharm 2019; 62:743-750. [PMID: 31267564 DOI: 10.1002/jlcr.3782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
A straightforward methodology of fluorine substitution by tritium/deuterium is reported. The described method is selective towards the F─C (sp3 ) group and leaves both the aromatic F─C (sp2 ) and F2 ─C (sp3 ) moieties unaffected. Alkylfluorides, readily synthesized from appropriate alcohols by treatment with diethylaminosulfur trifluoride (DAST) reagent in an overall yield up to 76%, undergoes activation with the boron-based Lewis acid B(C6 F5 )3 , and stoichiometric in situ reduction with a tritide/deuteride reagent-the [TMP2(3) H][2(3) HB(C6 F5 )3 ] system of frustrated Lewis pair. This methodology provides an isolated yield of up to 93% of regio-specifically labeled small organic compounds with superior 2 H-enrichment of over 95%. The specific activity of prepared 1-(2-[3 H]-ethyl)naphthalene was determined at 29.0 Ci/mmol. The site selectivity of the Lewis acid/ [TMP2(3) H][2(3) HB(C6 F5 )3 ] approach is orthogonal to currently used methods and allows for isotopic labeling of complementary positions in molecules. Reported labeling methodology proceeds well at ultra-mild reaction conditions (220 mbar of T2 ), allowing very low consumption of the radioactive source (4.2 Ci/156 GBq), and producing limited amount of radioactive waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Břetislav Brož
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Aleš Marek
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
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21
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Doubková S, Marek A. Frustrated Lewis pairs: A real alternative to deuteride/tritide reductions. J Labelled Comp Radiopharm 2019; 62:729-742. [PMID: 31170318 DOI: 10.1002/jlcr.3774] [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: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Deuterium- and tritium-labeled compounds play a principal role in tracing of biologically active molecules in complicated biochemical systems. The state-of-the-art techniques using noble metal catalysts or strong reducing agents often suffers from low functional group tolerances, poor selectivity, tricky or multistep synthesis of reagents, and low specific activity of the labeled product. Herein, we demonstrate a mild and nonmetallic technique of deuteration and tritiation of polarized double bonds, such as carbonyl compounds, yielding labeled alcohols of high specific activities. This one-pot synthesis uses carrier-free hydrogen gas in situ activated by a freshly prepared frustrated Lewis pair, generating reducing reagents. This labeling strategy shows better selectivity and functional group tolerances compared with current reductive methods. Reported is an example of the selective reduction of the aldehyde moiety of 3-acetylbenzaldehyde. What makes this technology groundbreaking is its mildness, selectivity, and generation of limited amount of radioactive waste as almost no byproducts were generated after use of (B(C6 F5 )3 3 H)(3 HTMP) reducing reagent. Radiochemical purity of desired 3 H-labeled product in a crude reaction mixture was determined of over 94%. This work provides, to the community of radiochemists, a practical protocol for frustrated Lewis pairs (FLP)-assisted deuterium/tritium labeling technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Doubková
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Aleš Marek
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
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22
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Muratspahić E, Freissmuth M, Gruber CW. Nature-Derived Peptides: A Growing Niche for GPCR Ligand Discovery. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2019; 40:309-326. [PMID: 30955896 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2019.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) represent important drug targets, as they regulate pivotal physiological processes and they have proved to be readily druggable. Natural products have been and continue to be amongst the most valuable sources for drug discovery and development. Here, we surveyed small molecules and (poly-)peptides derived from plants, animals, fungi, and bacteria, which modulate GPCR signaling. Among naturally occurring compounds, peptides from plants, cone-snails, snakes, spiders, scorpions, fungi, and bacteria are of particular interest as lead compounds for the development of GPCR ligands, since they cover a chemical space, which differs from that of synthetic small molecules. Peptides, however, face challenges, some of which can be overcome by studying plant-derived compounds. We argue here that the opportunities outweigh the challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edin Muratspahić
- Institute of Pharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Freissmuth
- Institute of Pharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria; Gaston H. Glock Research Laboratories for Exploratory Drug Development, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian W Gruber
- Institute of Pharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria.
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Adamski Z, Bufo SA, Chowański S, Falabella P, Lubawy J, Marciniak P, Pacholska-Bogalska J, Salvia R, Scrano L, Słocińska M, Spochacz M, Szymczak M, Urbański A, Walkowiak-Nowicka K, Rosiński G. Beetles as Model Organisms in Physiological, Biomedical and Environmental Studies - A Review. Front Physiol 2019; 10:319. [PMID: 30984018 PMCID: PMC6447812 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Model organisms are often used in biological, medical and environmental research. Among insects, Drosophila melanogaster, Galleria mellonella, Apis mellifera, Bombyx mori, Periplaneta americana, and Locusta migratoria are often used. However, new model organisms still appear. In recent years, an increasing number of insect species has been suggested as model organisms in life sciences research due to their worldwide distribution and environmental significance, the possibility of extrapolating research studies to vertebrates and the relatively low cost of rearing. Beetles are the largest insect order, with their representative - Tribolium castaneum - being the first species with a completely sequenced genome, and seem to be emerging as new potential candidates for model organisms in various studies. Apart from T. castaneum, additional species representing various Coleoptera families, such as Nicrophorus vespilloides, Leptinotarsa decemlineata, Coccinella septempunctata, Poecilus cupreus, Tenebrio molitor and many others, have been used. They are increasingly often included in two major research aspects: biomedical and environmental studies. Biomedical studies focus mainly on unraveling mechanisms of basic life processes, such as feeding, neurotransmission or activity of the immune system, as well as on elucidating the mechanism of different diseases (neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, metabolic, or immunological) using beetles as models. Furthermore, pharmacological bioassays for testing novel biologically active substances in beetles have also been developed. It should be emphasized that beetles are a source of compounds with potential antimicrobial and anticancer activity. Environmental-based studies focus mainly on the development and testing of new potential pesticides of both chemical and natural origin. Additionally, beetles are used as food or for their valuable supplements. Different beetle families are also used as bioindicators. Another important research area using beetles as models is behavioral ecology studies, for instance, parental care. In this paper, we review the current knowledge regarding beetles as model organisms and their practical application in various fields of life science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zbigniew Adamski
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poznań, Poland
- Laboratory of Electron and Confocal Microscopy, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poznań, Poland
| | - Sabino A. Bufo
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
- Department of Geography, Environmental Management & Energy Studies, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Szymon Chowański
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poznań, Poland
| | | | - Jan Lubawy
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poznań, Poland
| | - Paweł Marciniak
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poznań, Poland
| | - Joanna Pacholska-Bogalska
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poznań, Poland
| | - Rosanna Salvia
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | - Laura Scrano
- Department of European and Mediterranean Cultures, University of Basilicata, Matera, Italy
| | - Małgorzata Słocińska
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poznań, Poland
| | - Marta Spochacz
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poznań, Poland
| | - Monika Szymczak
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poznań, Poland
| | - Arkadiusz Urbański
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poznań, Poland
| | - Karolina Walkowiak-Nowicka
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poznań, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Rosiński
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poznań, Poland
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Nässel DR, Zandawala M. Recent advances in neuropeptide signaling in Drosophila, from genes to physiology and behavior. Prog Neurobiol 2019; 179:101607. [PMID: 30905728 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2019.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
This review focuses on neuropeptides and peptide hormones, the largest and most diverse class of neuroactive substances, known in Drosophila and other animals to play roles in almost all aspects of daily life, as w;1;ell as in developmental processes. We provide an update on novel neuropeptides and receptors identified in the last decade, and highlight progress in analysis of neuropeptide signaling in Drosophila. Especially exciting is the huge amount of work published on novel functions of neuropeptides and peptide hormones in Drosophila, largely due to the rapid developments of powerful genetic methods, imaging techniques and innovative assays. We critically discuss the roles of peptides in olfaction, taste, foraging, feeding, clock function/sleep, aggression, mating/reproduction, learning and other behaviors, as well as in regulation of development, growth, metabolic and water homeostasis, stress responses, fecundity, and lifespan. We furthermore provide novel information on neuropeptide distribution and organization of peptidergic systems, as well as the phylogenetic relations between Drosophila neuropeptides and those of other phyla, including mammals. As will be shown, neuropeptide signaling is phylogenetically ancient, and not only are the structures of the peptides, precursors and receptors conserved over evolution, but also many functions of neuropeptide signaling in physiology and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dick R Nässel
- Department of Zoology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Meet Zandawala
- Department of Zoology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
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Oxytocin/vasopressin-like peptide inotocin regulates cuticular hydrocarbon synthesis and water balancing in ants. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:5597-5606. [PMID: 30842287 PMCID: PMC6431230 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1817788116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Inotocin, the oxytocin/vasopressin-like peptide, is widely conserved in arthropods; however, little is known about its molecular function. Here, we show that, in ants, the expression levels of inotocin and its receptor are correlated with the age of workers and their behavior. We also demonstrate that inotocin signaling is involved in desiccation resistance by regulating the synthesis of cuticular hydrocarbons. We propose that the up-regulation of inotocin and its receptor as workers age and switch tasks from nursing to foraging is a key physiological adaption to survive drier environments outside of the nest. Oxytocin/vasopressin-like peptides are important regulators of physiology and social behavior in vertebrates. However, the function of inotocin, the homologous peptide in arthropods, remains largely unknown. Here, we show that the level of expression of inotocin and inotocin receptor are correlated with task allocation in the ant Camponotus fellah. Both genes are up-regulated when workers age and switch tasks from nursing to foraging. in situ hybridization revealed that inotocin receptor is specifically expressed in oenocytes, which are specialized cells synthesizing cuticular hydrocarbons which function as desiccation barriers in insects and for social recognition in ants. dsRNA injection targeting inotocin receptor, together with pharmacological treatments using three identified antagonists blocking inotocin signaling, revealed that inotocin signaling regulates the expression of cytochrome P450 4G1 (CYP4G1) and the synthesis of cuticular hydrocarbons, which play an important role in desiccation resistance once workers initiate foraging.
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Abstract
Mosquito breeding depends on the supply of fresh vertebrate blood, a major bottleneck for large-scale production of Anopheles spp. Feeding alternatives to fresh blood are thus a priority for research, outdoor large-cage trials and control interventions. Several artificial meal compositions were tested and Anopheles oogenesis, egg laying and development into the next generation of adult mosquitoes were followed. We identified blood-substitute-diets that supported ovarian development, egg maturation and fertility as well as, low progeny larval mortality, and normal development of offspring into adult mosquitoes. The formulated diet is an effective artificial meal, free of fresh blood that mimics a vertebrate blood meal and represents an important advance for the sustainability of Anopheles mosquito rearing in captivity.
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Discovery of peptide probes to modulate oxytocin-type receptors of insects. Sci Rep 2018; 8:10020. [PMID: 29968789 PMCID: PMC6030093 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-28380-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The oxytocin/vasopressin signalling system is conserved across the animal kingdom. In insects, the role of oxytocin-type (inotocin) neuropeptides has only been studied in locusts, beetles and ants, but their physiology continues to be poorly understood. One reason for this knowledge deficit is the lack of available research tools to complement functional genomics efforts. Consequently, ligands to probe insect inotocin receptors are essential. In this study, we sought to identify novel agonists and antagonists of the inotocin receptor from the representative model species Tribolium castaneum and Lasius niger. Drawing upon known ligands of the human receptors, we examined the pharmacology of the plant-derived cyclotide kalata B7 and the synthetic oxytocin analogue atosiban. Kalata B7 is a weak partial agonist of both inotocin receptors. This is the first reported direct interaction of cyclotides with an insect receptor, an observation that may explain their presumed role in herbivore defence. Furthermore, we discovered atosiban is an antagonist of the Tribolium receptor, which may provide a useful probe to investigate the functionality of inotocin signalling in beetles and related insect species. Our findings will enable further examination of insect inotocin receptor pharmacology and physiology, and may trigger studies to comprehend the interaction of plant cyclotides and insects.
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Liutkevičiūtė Z, Gil-Mansilla E, Eder T, Casillas-Pérez B, Di Giglio MG, Muratspahić E, Grebien F, Rattei T, Muttenthaler M, Cremer S, Gruber CW. Oxytocin-like signaling in ants influences metabolic gene expression and locomotor activity. FASEB J 2018; 32:fj201800443. [PMID: 29939785 PMCID: PMC6174076 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201800443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Ants are emerging model systems to study cellular signaling because distinct castes possess different physiologic phenotypes within the same colony. Here we studied the functionality of inotocin signaling, an insect ortholog of mammalian oxytocin (OT), which was recently discovered in ants. In Lasius ants, we determined that specialization within the colony, seasonal factors, and physiologic conditions down-regulated the expression of the OT-like signaling system. Given this natural variation, we interrogated its function using RNAi knockdowns. Next-generation RNA sequencing of OT-like precursor knock-down ants highlighted its role in the regulation of genes involved in metabolism. Knock-down ants exhibited higher walking activity and increased self-grooming in the brood chamber. We propose that OT-like signaling in ants is important for regulating metabolic processes and locomotion.-Liutkevičiūtė, Z., Gil-Mansilla, E., Eder, T., Casillas-Pérez, B., Di Giglio, M. G., Muratspahić, E., Grebien, F., Rattei, T., Muttenthaler, M., Cremer, S., Gruber, C. W. Oxytocin-like signaling in ants influences metabolic gene expression and locomotor activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zita Liutkevičiūtė
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Esther Gil-Mansilla
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Eder
- Division of Computational Systems Biology (CUBE), Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Edin Muratspahić
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Florian Grebien
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Rattei
- Division of Computational Systems Biology (CUBE), Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Muttenthaler
- Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Biological Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sylvia Cremer
- Institute of Science and Technology (IST) Austria, Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Christian W. Gruber
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Search of vasopressin analogs with antiproliferative activity on small-cell lung cancer: drug design based on two different approaches. Future Med Chem 2018; 10:879-894. [PMID: 29589487 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2017-0178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM Development of compounds with therapeutic application requires the interaction of different disciplines. Several tumors express vasopressin (AVP; arginine vasopressin) receptors with contrasting effects depending on receptor subtype. Desmopressin (dDAVP) is an AVP-selective analog with antiproliferative properties. In this work, an evolutionary approach and a rational strategy were applied in order to design novel AVP analogs. RESULTS We designed two novel analogs; dDInotocin (dDINT, insect analog), and [V4Q5]dDAVP, and demonstrated the importance of the dDAVP conformational loop for its antiproliferative activity. [V4Q5] dDAVP showed major cytostatic effect on lung cancer cells than dDAVP and its cytostatic effect was abolished by V2R blockade. CONCLUSION Combination of these strategies could provide the basis for future studies for the development of improved compounds with potential therapeutic applications.
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Arrowsmith S, Keov P, Muttenthaler M, Gruber CW. Contractility Measurements of Human Uterine Smooth Muscle to Aid Drug Development. J Vis Exp 2018. [PMID: 29443077 PMCID: PMC5841565 DOI: 10.3791/56639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Discovery and characterization of novel pharmaceutical compounds or biochemical probes rely on robust and physiologically relevant assay systems. We describe methods to measure ex vivo myometrium contractility. This assay can be used to investigate factors and molecules involved in the modulation of myometrial contraction and to determine their excitatory or inhibitory actions, and hence their therapeutic potential in vivo. Biopsies are obtained from women undergoing cesarean section delivery with informed consent. Fine strips of myometrium are dissected, clipped and attached to a force transducer within 1 mL organ baths superfused with physiological saline solution at 37 °C. Strips develop spontaneous contractions within 2-3 h under set tension and remain stable for many hours (>6 h). Strips can also be stimulated to contract such as by the endogenous hormones, oxytocin and vasopressin, which cause concentration-dependent modulation of contraction frequency, force and duration, to more closely resemble contractions in labor. Hence, the effect of known and novel drug leads can be tested on spontaneous and agonist-induced contractions. This protocol specifically details how this assay can be used to determine the potency of known and novel agents by measuring their effects on various parameters of human myometrial contraction. We use the oxytocin- and V1a receptor antagonists, atosiban and SR49059 as examples of known compounds which inhibit oxytocin- and vasopressin-induced contractions, and demonstrate how this method can be used to complement and validate pharmacological data obtained from cell-based assays to aid drug development. The effects of novel agonists in comparison to oxytocin and vasopressin can also be characterized. Whilst we use the example of the oxytocin/ vasopressin system, this method can also be used to study other receptors and ion channels that play a role in uterine contraction and relaxation to advance the understanding of human uterine physiology and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Arrowsmith
- Harris-Wellbeing Preterm Birth Research Centre, Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool;
| | - Peter Keov
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland
| | - Markus Muttenthaler
- Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Biological Chemistry, University of Vienna; Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland
| | - Christian W Gruber
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland; Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna;
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Chérasse S, Aron S. Measuring inotocin receptor gene expression in chronological order in ant queens. Horm Behav 2017; 96:116-121. [PMID: 28919556 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2017.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
In vertebrates and invertebrates, oxytocin/vasopressin-like peptides modulate a variety of behaviors. The recent discovery of the gene and receptor sequences of inotocin, the insect ortholog of oxytocin/vasopressin, opens new opportunities for understanding the role of this peptide family in regulating behaviors in the most populated class of living animals. Ants live in highly organized colonies. Once a year, they produce future queens that soon leave the nest to mate and found new colonies. During the first months of their lives, ant queens display a sequence of behaviors ranging from copulation and social interactions to violent fighting. In order to investigate the potential roles of inotocin in shaping queen behavior, we measured gene expression of the inotocin receptor in the heads of Lasius niger ant queens at different points in time. The highest levels of expression occurred early in queen life when they experience crowded conditions in their mother nests and soon thereafter set out to mate. Inotocin could thus be involved in regulating social and reproductive behaviors as reported in other animals. While oxytocin and vasopressin are also involved in aggression in mammals, we found no direct link between these behaviors and inotocin receptor expression in L. niger. Our study provides a first glimpse into the roles the inotocin receptor might play in regulating important processes in ant physiology and behavior. Further studies are needed to understand the molecular function of this complex signaling system in more detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Chérasse
- Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Département de Biologie des Organismes, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Avenue Franklin Roosevelt 50, 1050 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Serge Aron
- Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Département de Biologie des Organismes, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Avenue Franklin Roosevelt 50, 1050 Brussels, Belgium.
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