A novel form of the G protein beta subunit Gbeta5 is specifically expressed in the vertebrate retina

Arrestin Facilitates Rhodopsin Dephosphorylation in Vivo

Deactivation of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) involves multiple phosphorylations followed by arrestin binding, which uncouples the GPCR from G-protein activation. Some GPCRs, such as rhodopsin, are reused many times. Arrestin dissociation and GPCR dephosphorylation are key steps in the recycling process. In vitro evidence suggests that visual arrestin (ARR1) binding to light-activated, phosphorylated rhodopsin hinders dephosphorylation. Whether ARR1 binding also affects rhodopsin dephosphorylation in vivo is not known. We investigated this using both male and female mice lacking ARR1. Mice were exposed to bright light and placed in darkness for different periods of time, and differently phosphorylated species of rhodopsin were assayed by isoelectric focusing. For WT mice, rhodopsin dephosphorylation was nearly complete by 1 h in darkness. Surprisingly, we observed that, in the Arr1 KO rods, rhodopsin remained phosphorylated even after 3 h. Delayed dephosphorylation in Arr1 KO rods cannot be explained by cell stress induced by persistent signaling, since it is not prevented by the removal of transducin, the visual G-protein, nor can it be explained by downregulation of protein phosphatase 2A, the putative rhodopsin phosphatase. We further show that cone arrestin (ARR4), which binds light-activated, phosphorylated rhodopsin poorly, had little effect in enhancing rhodopsin dephosphorylation, whereas mice expressing binding-competent mutant ARR1-3A showed a similar time course of rhodopsin dephosphorylation as WT. Together, these results reveal a novel role of ARR1 in facilitating rhodopsin dephosphorylation in vivoSIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are transmembrane proteins used by cells to receive and respond to a broad range of extracellular signals that include neurotransmitters, hormones, odorants, and light (photons). GPCR signaling is terminated by two sequential steps: phosphorylation and arrestin binding. Both steps must be reversed when GPCRs are recycled and reused. Dephosphorylation, which is required for recycling, is an understudied process. Using rhodopsin as a prototypical GPCR, we discovered that arrestin facilitated rhodopsin dephosphorylation in living mice.

Inhibition of G-protein signalling in cardiac dysfunction of intellectual developmental disorder with cardiac arrhythmia (IDDCA) syndrome

BACKGROUND

Pathogenic variants of GNB5 encoding the β5 subunit of the guanine nucleotide-binding protein cause IDDCA syndrome, an autosomal recessive neurodevelopmental disorder associated with cognitive disability and cardiac arrhythmia, particularly severe bradycardia.

METHODS

We used echocardiography and telemetric ECG recordings to investigate consequences of Gnb5 loss in mouse.

RESULTS

We delineated a key role of Gnb5 in heart sinus conduction and showed that Gnb5-inhibitory signalling is essential for parasympathetic control of heart rate (HR) and maintenance of the sympathovagal balance. Gnb5-/- mice were smaller and had a smaller heart than Gnb5+/+ and Gnb5+/- , but exhibited better cardiac function. Lower autonomic nervous system modulation through diminished parasympathetic control and greater sympathetic regulation resulted in a higher baseline HR in Gnb5-/- mice. In contrast, Gnb5-/- mice exhibited profound bradycardia on treatment with carbachol, while sympathetic modulation of the cardiac stimulation was not altered. Concordantly, transcriptome study pinpointed altered expression of genes involved in cardiac muscle contractility in atria and ventricles of knocked-out mice. Homozygous Gnb5 loss resulted in significantly higher frequencies of sinus arrhythmias. Moreover, we described 13 affected individuals, increasing the IDDCA cohort to 44 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data demonstrate that loss of negative regulation of the inhibitory G-protein signalling causes HR perturbations in Gnb5-/- mice, an effect mainly driven by impaired parasympathetic activity. We anticipate that unravelling the mechanism of Gnb5 signalling in the autonomic control of the heart will pave the way for future drug screening.

Extended Phenotyping and Functional Validation Facilitate Diagnosis of a Complex Patient Harboring Genetic Variants in MCCC1 and GNB5 Causing Overlapping Phenotypes

Identifying multiple ultra-rare genetic syndromes with overlapping phenotypes is a diagnostic conundrum in clinical genetics. This study investigated the pathogenicity of a homozygous missense variant in GNB5 (GNB5L; NM_016194.4: c.920T > G (p. Leu307Arg); GNB5S; NM_006578.4: c.794T > G (p. Leu265Arg)) identified through exome sequencing in a female child who also had 3-methylcrotonyl-CoA carboxylase (3-MCC) deficiency (newborn screening positive) and hemoglobin E trait. The proband presented with early-onset intellectual disability, the severity of which was more in keeping with GNB5-related disorder than 3-MCC deficiency. She later developed bradycardia and cardiac arrest, and upon re-phenotyping showed cone photo-transduction recovery deficit, all known only to GNB5-related disorders. Patient-derived fibroblast assays showed preserved GNB5S expression, but bioluminescence resonance energy transfer assay showed abolished function of the variant reconstituted Gβ5S containing RGS complexes for deactivation of D2 dopamine receptor activity, confirming variant pathogenicity. This study highlights the need for precise phenotyping and functional assays to facilitate variant classification and clinical diagnosis in patients with complex medical conditions.

Subtype-dependent regulation of Gβγ signalling

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) transmit information to the cell interior by transducing external signals to heterotrimeric G protein subunits, Gα and Gβγ subunits, localized on the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane. Though the initial focus was mainly on Gα-mediated events, Gβγ subunits were later identified as major contributors to GPCR-G protein signalling. A broad functional array of Gβγ signalling has recently been attributed to Gβ and Gγ subtype diversity, comprising 5 Gβ and 12 Gγ subtypes, respectively. In addition to displaying selectivity towards each other to form the Gβγ dimer, numerous studies have identified preferences of distinct Gβγ combinations for specific GPCRs, Gα subtypes and effector molecules. Importantly, Gβ and Gγ subtype-dependent regulation of downstream effectors, representing a diverse range of signalling pathways and physiological functions have been found. Here, we review the literature on the repercussions of Gβ and Gγ subtype diversity on direct and indirect regulation of GPCR/G protein signalling events and their physiological outcomes. Our discussion additionally provides perspective in understanding the intricacies underlying molecular regulation of subtype-specific roles of Gβγ signalling and associated diseases.

G protein β5-ATM complexes drive acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity

Excessive ingestion of the common analgesic acetaminophen (APAP) leads to severe hepatotoxicity. Here we identify G protein β5 (Gβ₅), elevated in livers from APAP overdose patients, as a critical regulator of cell death pathways and autophagic signaling in APAP-exposed liver. Liver-specific knockdown of Gβ₅ in mice protected the liver from APAP-dependent fibrosis, cell loss, oxidative stress, and inflammation following either acute or chronic APAP administration. Conversely, overexpression of Gβ₅ in liver was sufficient to drive hepatocyte dysfunction and loss. In hepatocytes, Gβ₅ depletion ameliorated mitochondrial dysfunction, allowed for maintenance of ATP generation and mitigated APAP-induced cell death. Further, Gβ₅ knockdown also reversed impacts of APAP on kinase cascades (e.g. ATM/AMPK) signaling to mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a master regulator of autophagy and, as a result, interrupted autophagic flux. Though canonically relegated to nuclear DNA repair pathways, ATM also functions in the cytoplasm to control cell death and autophagy. Indeed, we now show that Gβ₅ forms a direct, stable complex with the FAT domain of ATM, important for autophosphorylation-dependent kinase activation. These data provide a viable explanation for these novel, G protein-independent actions of Gβ₅ in liver. Thus, Gβ₅ sits at a critical nexus in multiple pathological sequelae driving APAP-dependent liver damage.

Severe Phenotype in a Patient With Homozygous 15q21.2 Microdeletion Involving BCL2L10, GNB5, and MYO5C Genes, Resembling Infantile Developmental Disorder With Cardiac Arrhythmias (IDDCA)

Homozygous and compound heterozygous mutations in GNB5 gene have been associated with a wide spectrum of clinical presentations, ranging from neurodevelopmental issues with or without cardiac arrhythmia (LADCI) to severe developmental delay with epileptic encephalopathy, retinal dystrophy, and heart rhythm abnormalities (IDDCA). While missense or missense/non-sense mutations usually lead to milder form, the biallelic loss of function of GNB5 gene causes the severe multisystemic IDDCA phenotype. So far, only 27 patients have been described with GNB5-associated disease. We report the first case of a patient carrying a homozygous 15q21.2 microdeletion, encompassing GNB5 and the two contiguous genes BCL2L10 and MYO5C. The clinical features of the child are consistent with the severe IDDCA phenotype, thus confirming the GNB5 loss-of-function mechanism in determining such presentation of the disease.

The Emerging Role of Gβ Subunits in Human Genetic Diseases

Environmental stimuli are perceived and transduced inside the cell through the activation of signaling pathways. One common type of cell signaling transduction network is initiated by G-proteins. G-proteins are activated by G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and transmit signals from hormones, neurotransmitters, and other signaling factors, thus controlling a number of biological processes that include synaptic transmission, visual photoreception, hormone and growth factors release, regulation of cell contraction and migration, as well as cell growth and differentiation. G-proteins mainly act as heterotrimeric complexes, composed of alpha, beta, and gamma subunits. In the last few years, whole exome sequencing and biochemical studies have shown causality of disease-causing variants in genes encoding G-proteins and human genetic diseases. This review focuses on the G-protein β subunits and their emerging role in the etiology of genetically inherited rare diseases in humans.

Effect of Rhodopsin Phosphorylation on Dark Adaptation in Mouse Rods

Rhodopsin is a prototypical G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that is activated when its 11-cis-retinal moiety is photoisomerized to all-trans retinal. This step initiates a cascade of reactions by which rods signal changes in light intensity. Like other GPCRs, rhodopsin is deactivated through receptor phosphorylation and arrestin binding. Full recovery of receptor sensitivity is then achieved when rhodopsin is regenerated through a series of steps that return the receptor to its ground state. Here, we show that dephosphorylation of the opsin moiety of rhodopsin is an extremely slow but requisite step in the restoration of the visual pigment to its ground state. We make use of a novel observation: isolated mouse retinae kept in standard media for routine physiologic recordings display blunted dephosphorylation of rhodopsin. Isoelectric focusing followed by Western blot analysis of bleached isolated retinae showed little dephosphorylation of rhodopsin for up to 4 h in darkness, even under conditions when rhodopsin was completely regenerated. Microspectrophotometeric determinations of rhodopsin spectra show that regenerated phospho-rhodopsin has the same molecular photosensitivity as unphosphorylated rhodopsin and that flash responses measured by trans-retinal electroretinogram or single-cell suction electrode recording displayed dark-adapted kinetics. Single quantal responses displayed normal dark-adapted kinetics, but rods were only half as sensitive as those containing exclusively unphosphorylated rhodopsin. We propose a model in which light-exposed retinae contain a mixed population of phosphorylated and unphosphorylated rhodopsin. Moreover, complete dark adaptation can only occur when all rhodopsin has been dephosphorylated, a process that requires >3 h in complete darkness.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute the largest superfamily of proteins that compose ∼4% of the mammalian genome whose members share a common membrane topology. Signaling by GPCRs regulate a wide variety of physiological processes, including taste, smell, hearing, vision, and cardiovascular, endocrine, and reproductive homeostasis. An important feature of GPCR signaling is its timely termination. This normally occurs when, after their activation, GPCRs are rapidly phosphorylated by specific receptor kinases and subsequently bound by cognate arrestins. Recovery of receptor sensitivity to the ground state then requires dephosphorylation of the receptor and unbinding of arrestin, processes that are poorly understood. Here we investigate in mouse rod photoreceptors the relationship between rhodopsin dephosphorylation and recovery of visual sensitivity.

Identification and prediction of alternative transcription start sites that generate rod photoreceptor-specific transcripts from ubiquitously expressed genes

Transcriptome complexity is substantially increased by the use of multiple transcription start sites for a given gene. By utilizing a rod photoreceptor-specific chromatin signature, and the RefSeq database of established transcription start sites, we have identified essentially all known rod photoreceptor genes as well as a group of novel genes that have a high probability of being expressed in rod photoreceptors. Approximately half of these novel rod genes are transcribed into multiple mRNA and/or protein isoforms through alternative transcriptional start sites (ATSS), only one of which has a rod-specific epigenetic signature and gives rise to a rod transcript. This suggests that, during retina development, some genes use ATSS to regulate cell type and temporal specificity, effectively generating a rod transcript from otherwise ubiquitously expressed genes. Biological confirmation of the relationship between epigenetic signatures and gene expression, as well as comparison of our genome-wide chromatin signature maps with available data sets for retina, namely a ChIP-on-Chip study of Polymerase-II (Pol-II) binding sites, ChIP-Seq studies for NRL- and CRX- binding sites and DHS (University of Washington data, available on UCSC mouse Genome Browser as a part of ENCODE project) fully support our hypothesis and together accurately identify and predict an array of new rod transcripts. The same approach was used to identify a number of TSS that are not currently in RefSeq. Biological conformation of the use of some of these TSS suggests that this method will be valuable for exploring the range of transcriptional complexity in many tissues. Comparison of mouse and human genome-wide data indicates that most of these alternate TSS appear to be present in both species, indicating that our approach can be useful for identification of regulatory regions that might play a role in human retinal disease.

Separation of photoreceptor cell compartments in mouse retina for protein analysis

BACKGROUND

Light exposure triggers movement of certain signaling proteins within the cellular compartments of the highly polarized rod photoreceptor cell. This redistribution of proteins between the inner and outer segment compartments affects the performance and physiology of the rod cell. In addition, newly synthesized phototransduction proteins traverse from the site of their synthesis in the inner segment, through the thin connecting cilium, to reach their destination in the outer segment. Processes that impede normal trafficking of these abundant proteins lead to cell death. The study of movement and unique localization of biomolecules within the different compartments of the rod cell would be greatly facilitated by techniques that reliably separate these compartments. Ideally, these methods can be applied to the mouse retina due to the widespread usage of transgenic mouse models in the investigation of basic visual processes and disease mechanisms that affect vision. Although the retina is organized in distinct layers, the small and highly curved mouse retina makes physical separation of retinal layers a challenge. We introduce two peeling methods that efficiently and reliably isolate the rod outer segment and other cell compartments for Western blots to examine protein movement across these compartments.

METHODS

The first separation method employs Whatman^® filter paper to successively remove the rod outer segments from isolated, live mouse retinas. The second method utilizes Scotch^TM tape to peel the rod outer segment layer and the rod inner segment layer from lyophilized mouse retinas. Both procedures can be completed within one hour.

RESULTS

We utilize these two protocols on dark-adapted and light-exposed retinas of C57BL/6 mice and subject the isolated tissue layers to Western blots to demonstrate their effectiveness in detecting light-induced translocation of transducin (GNAT1) and rod arrestin (ARR1). Furthermore, we provide evidence that RGS9 does not undergo light-induced translocation.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the two different peeling protocols for the separation of the layered compartments of the mouse retina and their utility for investigations of protein compositions within these compartments.

GNB5 mutation causes a novel neuropsychiatric disorder featuring attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, severely impaired language development and normal cognition

Background

Neuropsychiatric disorders are common forms of disability in humans. Despite recent progress in deciphering the genetics of these disorders, their phenotypic complexity continues to be a major challenge. Mendelian neuropsychiatric disorders are rare but their study has the potential to unravel novel mechanisms that are relevant to their complex counterparts.

Results

In an extended consanguineous family, we identified a novel neuropsychiatric phenotype characterized by severe speech impairment, variable expressivity of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and motor delay. We identified the disease locus through linkage analysis on 15q21.2, and exome sequencing revealed a novel missense variant in GNB5. GNB5 encodes an atypical β subunit of the heterotrimeric GTP-binding proteins (Gβ5). Gβ5 is enriched in the central nervous system where it forms constitutive complexes with members of the regulator of G protein signaling family of proteins to modulate neurotransmitter signaling that affects a number of neurobehavioral outcomes. Here, we show that the S81L mutant form of Gβ5 has significantly impaired activity in terminating responses that are elicited by dopamine.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that these deficits originate from the impaired expression of the mutant Gβ5 protein, resulting in the decreased ability to stabilize regulator of G protein signaling complexes. Our data suggest that this novel neuropsychiatric phenotype is the human equivalent of Gnb5 deficiency in mice, which manifest motor deficits and hyperactivity, and highlight a critical role of Gβ5 in normal behavior as well as language and motor development in humans.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13059-016-1061-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

RGS Protein Regulation of Phototransduction

First identified in yeast and worm and later in other species, the physiological importance of Regulators of G-protein Signaling (RGS) in mammals was first demonstrated at the turn of the century in mouse retinal photoreceptors, in which RGS9 is needed for timely recovery of rod phototransduction. The role of RGS in vision has also been established a synapse away in retinal depolarizing bipolar cells (DBCs), where RGS7 and RGS11 work redundantly and in a complex with Gβ5-S as GAPs for Goα in the metabotropic glutamate receptor 6 pathway situated at DBC dendritic tips. Much less is known on how RGS protein subserves vision in the rest of the visual system. The research into the roles of RGS proteins in vision holds great potential for many exciting new discoveries.

G protein beta 5 is targeted to D2-dopamine receptor-containing biochemical compartments and blocks dopamine-dependent receptor internalization

G beta 5 (Gbeta5, Gβ5) is a unique G protein β subunit that is thought to be expressed as an obligate heterodimer with R7 regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins instead of with G gamma (Gγ) subunits. We found that D2-dopamine receptor (D2R) coexpression enhances the expression of Gβ5, but not that of the G beta 1 (Gβ1) subunit, in HEK293 cells, and that the enhancement of expression occurs through a stabilization of Gβ5 protein. We had previously demonstrated that the vast majority of D2R either expressed endogenously in the brain or exogenously in cell lines segregates into detergent-resistant biochemical fractions. We report that when expressed alone in HEK293 cells, Gβ5 is highly soluble, but is retargeted to the detergent-resistant fraction after D2R coexpression. Furthermore, an in-cell biotin transfer proximity assay indicated that D2R and Gβ5 segregating into the detergent-resistant fraction specifically interacted in intact living cell membranes. Dopamine-induced D2R internalization was blocked by coexpression of Gβ5, but not Gβ1. However, the same Gβ5 coexpression levels had no effect on agonist-induced internalization of the mu opioid receptor (MOR), cell surface D2R levels, dopamine-mediated recruitment of β-arrestin to D2R, the amplitude of D2R-G protein coupling, or the deactivation kinetics of D2R-activated G protein signals. The latter data suggest that the interactions between D2R and Gβ5 are not mediated by endogenously expressed R7 RGS proteins.

Visual arrestin interaction with clathrin adaptor AP-2 regulates photoreceptor survival in the vertebrate retina

Arrestins bind ligand-activated, phosphorylated G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and terminate the activation of G proteins. Additionally, nonvisual arrestin/GPCR complex can initiate G protein-independent intracellular signals through their ability to act as scaffolds that bring other signaling molecules to the internalized GPCR. Like nonvisual arrestins, vertebrate visual arrestin (ARR1) terminates G protein signaling from light-activated, phosphorylated GPCR, rhodopsin. Unlike nonvisual arrestins, its role as a transducer of signaling from internalized rhodopsin has not been reported in the vertebrate retina. Formation of signaling complexes with arrestins often requires recruitment of the endocytic adaptor protein, AP-2. We have previously shown that Lys296 → Glu (K296E), which is a naturally occurring rhodopsin mutation in certain humans diagnosed with autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa, causes toxicity through forming a stable complex with ARR1. Here we investigated whether recruitment of AP-2 by the K296E/ARR1 complex plays a role in generating the cell death signal in a transgenic mouse model of retinal degeneration. We measured the binding affinity of ARR1 for AP-2 and found that, although the affinity is much lower than that of the other arrestins, the unusually high concentration of ARR1 in rods would favor this interaction. We further demonstrate that p44, a splice variant of ARR1 that binds light-activated, phosphorylated rhodopsin but lacks the AP-2 binding motif, prevents retinal degeneration and rescues visual function in K296E mice. These results reveal a unique role of ARR1 in a G protein-independent signaling cascade in the vertebrate retina.

Light-induced translocation of RGS9-1 and Gβ5L in mouse rod photoreceptors

The transducin GTPase-accelerating protein complex, which determines the photoresponse duration of photoreceptors, is composed of RGS9-1, Gβ5L and R9AP. Here we report that RGS9-1 and Gβ5L change their distribution in rods during light/dark adaptation. Upon prolonged dark adaptation, RGS9-1 and Gβ5L are primarily located in rod inner segments. But very dim-light exposure quickly translocates them to the outer segments. In contrast, their anchor protein R9AP remains in the outer segment at all times. In the dark, Gβ5L's interaction with R9AP decreases significantly and RGS9-1 is phosphorylated at S(475) to a significant degree. Dim light exposure leads to quick de-phosphorylation of RGS9-1. Furthermore, after prolonged dark adaptation, RGS9-1 and transducin Gα are located in different cellular compartments. These results suggest a previously unappreciated mechanism by which prolonged dark adaptation leads to increased light sensitivity in rods by dissociating RGS9-1 from R9AP and redistributing it to rod inner segments.

The expanding roles of Gβγ subunits in G protein-coupled receptor signaling and drug action

Gβγ subunits from heterotrimeric G proteins perform a vast array of functions in cells with respect to signaling, often independently as well as in concert with Gα subunits. However, the eponymous term "Gβγ" does not do justice to the fact that 5 Gβ and 12 Gγ isoforms have evolved in mammals to serve much broader roles beyond their canonical roles in cellular signaling. We explore the phylogenetic diversity of Gβγ subunits with a view toward understanding these expanded roles in different cellular organelles. We suggest that the particular content of distinct Gβγ subunits regulates cellular activity, and that the granularity of individual Gβ and Gγ action is only beginning to be understood. Given the therapeutic potential of targeting Gβγ action, this larger view serves as a prelude to more specific development of drugs aimed at individual isoforms.

Functional comparison of rod and cone Gα(t) on the regulation of light sensitivity

The signaling cascades mediated by G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) exhibit a wide spectrum of spatial and temporal response properties to fulfill diverse physiological demands. However, the mechanisms that shape the signaling response of the GPCR are not well understood. In this study, we replaced cone transducin α (cTα) for rod transducin α (rTα) in rod photoreceptors of transgenic mice, which also express S opsin, to evaluate the role of Gα subtype on signal amplification from different GPCRs in the same cell; such analysis may explain functional differences between retinal rod and cone photoreceptors. We showed that ectopically expressed cTα 1) forms a heterotrimeric complex with rod Gβ(1)γ(1), 2) substitutes equally for rTα in generating photoresponses initiated by either rhodopsin or S-cone opsin, and 3) exhibited similar light-activated translocation as endogenous rTα in rods and endogenous cTα in cones. Thus, rTα and cTα appear functionally interchangeable. Interestingly, light sensitivity appeared to correlate with the concentration of cTα when expression is reduced below 35% of normal. However, quantification of endogenous cTα concentration in cones showed a higher level to rTα in rods. Thus, reduced sensitivity in cones cannot be explained by reduced coupling efficiency between the GPCR and G protein or a lower concentration of G protein in cones versus rods.

Subcellular localization of regulator of G protein signaling RGS7 complex in neurons and transfected cells

The R7 family of regulators of G protein signaling (RGS) is involved in many functions of the nervous system. This family includes RGS6, RGS7, RGS9, and RGS11 gene products and is defined by the presence of the characteristic first found in Disheveled, Egl-10, Pleckstrin (DEP), DEP helical extension (DHEX), Gγ-like, and RGS domains. Herein, we examined the subcellular localization of RGS7, the most broadly expressed R7 member. Our immunofluorescence studies of retinal and dorsal root ganglion neurons showed that RGS7 concentrated at the plasma membrane of cell bodies, in structures resembling lamellipodia or filopodia along the processes, and at the dendritic tips. At the plasma membrane of dorsal root ganglia neurons, RGS7 co-localized with its known binding partners R7 RGS binding protein (R7BP), Gαo, and Gαq. More than 50% of total RGS7-specific immunofluorescence was present in the cytoplasm, primarily within numerous small puncta that did not co-localize with R7BP. No specific RGS7 or R7BP immunoreactivity was detected in the nuclei. In transfected cell lines, ectopic RGS7 had both diffuse cytosolic and punctate localization patterns. RGS7 also localized in centrosomes. Structure-function analysis showed that the punctate localization was mediated by the DEP/DHEX domains, and centrosomal localization was dependent on the DHEX domain.

Defective retinal depolarizing bipolar cells in regulators of G protein signaling (RGS) 7 and 11 double null mice

Two members of the R7 subfamily of regulators of G protein signaling, RGS7 and RGS11, are present at dendritic tips of retinal depolarizing bipolar cells (DBCs). Their involvement in the mGluR6/Gα(o)/TRPM1 pathway that mediates DBC light responses has been implicated. However, previous genetic studies employed an RGS7 mutant mouse that is hypomorphic, and hence the exact role of RGS7 in DBCs remains unclear. We have made a true RGS7-null mouse line with exons 6-8 deleted. The RGS7(-/-) mouse is viable and fertile but smaller in body size. Electroretinogram (ERG) b-wave implicit time in young RGS7(-/-) mice is prolonged at eye opening, but the phenotype disappears at 2 months of age. Expression levels of RGS6 and RGS11 are unchanged in RGS7(-/-) retina, but the Gβ5S level is significantly reduced. By characterizing a complete RGS7 and RGS11 double knock-out (711dKO) mouse line, we found that Gβ5S expression in the retinal outer plexiform layer is eliminated, as is the ERG b-wave. Ultrastructural defects akin to those of Gβ5(-/-) mice are evident in 711dKO mice. In retinas of mice lacking RGS6, RGS7, and RGS11, Gβ5S is undetectable, whereas levels of the photoreceptor-specific Gβ5L remain unchanged. Whereas RGS6 alone sustains a significant amount of Gβ5S expression in retina, the DBC-related defects in Gβ5(-/-) mice are caused solely by a combined loss of RGS7 and RGS11. Our data support the notion that the role of Gβ5 in the retina, and likely in the entire nervous system, is mediated exclusively by R7 RGS proteins.

Membrane attachment is key to protecting transducin GTPase-activating complex from intracellular proteolysis in photoreceptors

The members of the R7 regulator of G-protein signaling (RGS) protein subfamily are versatile regulators of G-protein signaling throughout the nervous system. Recent studies indicate that they are often found in complexes with membrane anchor proteins that serve as versatile modulators of their activity, intracellular targeting, and stability. One striking example is the interplay between the membrane anchor R9AP and the RGS9-1 · Gβ5 GTPase-activating complex responsible for the rapid inactivation of the G-protein transducin in vertebrate photoreceptor cells during their recovery from light excitation. The amount of this complex in photoreceptors sets their temporal resolution and is precisely regulated by the expression level of R9AP, which serves to protect the RGS9-1 and Gβ5 subunits from intracellular proteolysis. In this study, we investigated the mechanism by which R9AP performs its protective function in mouse rods and found that it is entirely confined to recruiting RGS9-1 · Gβ5 to cellular membranes. Furthermore, membrane attachment of RGS9-1 · Gβ5 is sufficient for its stable expression in rods even in the absence of R9AP. Our second finding is that RGS9-1 · Gβ5 possesses targeting information that specifies its exclusion from the outer segment and that this information is neutralized by association with R9AP to allow outer segment targeting. Finally, we demonstrate that the ability of R9AP · RGS9-1 · Gβ5 to accelerate GTP hydrolysis on transducin is independent of its means of membrane attachment, since replacing the transmembrane domain of R9AP with a site for lipid modification did not impair the catalytic activity of this complex.

D(2)-Dopamine receptors target regulator of G protein signaling 9-2 to detergent-resistant membrane fractions

Detergent-resistant membranes (DRM) are thought to contain structures such as lipid rafts that are involved in compartmentalizing cell membranes. We report that the majority of D(2)-dopamine receptors (D(2)R) expressed endogenously in mouse striatum or expressed in immortalized cell-lines is found in DRM. In addition, exogenous co-expression of D(2)R in a cell line shifted the expression of regulator of G protein signaling 9-2 (RGS9-2) into DRM. RGS9-2 is a protein that is highly enriched in the striatum and specifically regulates striatal D(2)R. In the striatum, RGS9-2 is mostly associated with DRMs but when expressed in cell lines, RGS9-2 is present in the soluble cytoplasmic fraction. In contrast, the majority of mu opioid receptors and delta opioid receptors are found in detergent-soluble membrane and there was no shift of RGS9-2 into DRM after co-expression of mu opioid receptor. These data suggest that the targeting of RGS9-2 to DRM in the striatum is mediated by D(2)R and that DRM is involved in the formation of a D(2)R signaling complex. D(2)R-mediated targeting of RGS9-2 to DRM was blocked by the deletion of the RGS9-2 DEP domain or by a point mutation that abolishes the GTPase accelerating protein function of RGS9-2.

Molecular organization of the complex between the muscarinic M3 receptor and the regulator of G protein signaling, Gbeta(5)-RGS7

The complex of the regulator of G protein signaling (RGS), Gbeta(5)-RGS7, can inhibit signal transduction via the M3 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (M3R). RGS7 consists of three distinct structural entities: the DEP domain and its extension DHEX, the Ggamma-like (GGL) domain, which is permanently bound to Gbeta subunit Gbeta(5), and the RGS domain responsible for the interaction with Galpha subunits. Inhibition of the M3R by Gbeta(5)-RGS7 is independent of the RGS domain but requires binding of the DEP domain to the third intracellular loop of the receptor. Recent studies identified the dynamic intramolecular interaction between the Gbeta(5) and DEP domains, which suggested that the Gbeta(5)-RGS7 dimer could alternate between the "open" and "closed" conformations. Here, we identified point mutations that weaken DEP-Gbeta(5) binding, presumably stabilizing the open state, and tested their effects on the interaction of Gbeta(5)-RGS7 with the M3R. We found that these mutations facilitated binding of Gbeta(5)-RGS7 to the recombinant third intracellular loop of the M3R but did not enhance its ability to inhibit M3R-mediated Ca(2+) mobilization. This led us to the idea that the M3R can effectively induce the Gbeta(5)-RGS7 dimer to open; such a mechanism would require a region of the receptor distinct from the third loop. Indeed, we found that the C-terminus of M3R interacts with Gbeta(5)-RGS7. Truncation of the C-terminus rendered the M3R insensitive to inhibition by wild-type Gbeta(5)-RGS7; however, the open mutant of Gbeta(5)-RGS7 was able to inhibit signaling by the truncated M3R. The GST fusion of the M3R C-tail could not bind to wild-type Gbeta(5)-RGS7 but could associate with its open mutant as well as with the separated recombinant DEP domain or Gbeta(5). Taken together, our data are consistent with the following model: interaction of the M3R with Gbeta(5)-RGS7 causes the DEP domain and Gbeta(5) to dissociate from each other and bind to the C-tail, and the DEP domain also binds to the third loop, thereby inhibiting M3R-mediated signaling.

R9AP stabilizes RGS11-G beta5 and accelerates the early light response of ON-bipolar cells

The rate-limiting step in the recovery of the photoreceptor light response is the hydrolysis of GTP by transducin, a reaction that is accelerated by the RGS9-Gbeta5 complex, and its membrane anchor, R9AP. Similar complexes, including RGS7, RGS11, and Gbeta5, are found in retinal ON-bipolar cell dendrites. Here, we present evidence that R9AP is also expressed in the dendritic tips of ON-bipolar cells. Immunofluorescent staining for R9AP revealed a punctate pattern of labeling in the outer plexiform layer, where it colocalized with mGluR6. In photoreceptors, R9AP is required for proteolytic stability of the entire regulator of G protein signaling complex, and we found that genetic deletion of R9AP also results in a marked reduction in the levels of RGS11 and Gbeta5 in the bipolar cell dendrites; the level of RGS7 was unaffected, suggesting the presence of another interaction partner to stabilize RGS7. To determine the effect of R9AP deletion on the response kinetics of ON-bipolar cells, we compared the electroretinogram (ERG) between wild-type and R9AP-deficient mice. The ERG b-wave, reflecting ON-bipolar cell activity, was delayed and larger in the R9AP-deficient mice. Our data indicate that R9AP is required for stable expression of RGS11-Gbeta5 in ON-bipolar cell dendrites. Furthermore, they suggest that the RGS11-Gbeta5-R9AP complex accelerates the initial ON-bipolar cell response to light.

Evolution of vertebrate rod and cone phototransduction genes

Vertebrate cones and rods in several cases use separate but related components for their signal transduction (opsins, G-proteins, ion channels, etc.). Some of these proteins are also used differentially in other cell types in the retina. Because cones, rods and other retinal cell types originated in early vertebrate evolution, it is of interest to see if their specific genes arose in the extensive gene duplications that took place in the ancestor of the jawed vertebrates (gnathostomes) by two tetraploidizations (genome doublings). The ancestor of teleost fishes subsequently underwent a third tetraploidization. Our previously reported analyses showed that several gene families in the vertebrate visual phototransduction cascade received new members in the basal tetraploidizations. We here expand these data with studies of additional gene families and vertebrate species. We conclude that no less than 10 of the 13 studied phototransduction gene families received additional members in the two basal vertebrate tetraploidizations. Also the remaining three families seem to have undergone duplications during the same time period but it is unclear if this happened as a result of the tetraploidizations. The implications of the many early vertebrate gene duplications for functional specialization of specific retinal cell types, particularly cones and rods, are discussed.

Distribution of RGS9-2 in neurons of the mouse striatum

Regulators of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins negatively modulate G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling activity by accelerating G protein hydrolysis of GTP, hastening pathway shutoff. A wealth of data from cell culture experiments using exogenously expressed proteins indicates that RGS9 and other RGS proteins have the potential to down-regulate a significant number of pathways. We have used an array of biochemical and tissue staining techniques to examine the subcellular localization and membrane binding characteristics of endogenous RGS9-2 and known binding partners in rodent striatum and tissue homogenates. A small fraction of RGS9-2 is present in the soluble cytoplasmic fraction, whereas the majority is present primarily associated with the plasma membrane and structures insoluble in non-ionic detergents that efficiently extract the vast majority of its binding partners, R7BP and G(beta5). It is specifically excluded from the cell nucleus in mouse striatal tissue. In cultured striatal neurons, RGS9-2 is found at extrasynaptic sites primarily along the dendritic shaft near the spine neck. Heterogeneity in RGS9-2 detergent solubility along with its unique subcellular localization suggests that its mechanism of membrane anchoring and localization is complex and likely involves additional proteins beside R7BP. An important nuclear function for RGS9-2 seems unlikely.

Structure, function, and localization of Gβ5-RGS complexes

Members of the R7 subfamily of regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins (RGS6, 7, 9, and 11) exist as heterodimers with the G protein beta subunit Gβ5. These protein complexes are only found in neurons and are defined by the presence of three domains: DEP/DHEX, Gβ5/GGL, and RGS. This article summarizes published work in the following areas: (1) the functional significance of structural organization of Gβ5-R7 complexes, (2) regional distribution of Gβ5-R7 in the nervous system and regulation of R7 family expression, (3) subcellular localization of Gβ5-R7 complexes, and (4) novel binding partners of Gβ5-R7 proteins. The review points out some contradictions between observations made by different research groups and highlights the importance of using alternative experimental approaches to obtain conclusive information about Gβ5-R7 function in vivo.

The repertoire of heterotrimeric G proteins and RGS proteins in Ciona intestinalis

Background

Heterotrimeric G proteins and regulators of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins are key downstream interacting partners in the G protein coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling pathway. The highly versatile GPCR transmembrane signaling system is a consequence of the coupling of a diverse set of receptors to downstream partners that include multiple subforms of G proteins and regulatory proteins including RGS proteins, among others. While the GPCR repertoire of Ciona intestinalis, representing the basal chordate is known, the repertoire of the heterotrimeric G proteins and RGS proteins is unknown.

Methodology/Principal Findings

In the present study, we performed an in-silico genome-wide search of C. intestinalis for its complement of G proteins and RGS proteins. The identification of several one-to-one orthologs of human G proteins at the levels of families, subfamilies and types and of homologs of the human RGS proteins suggests an evolutionarily conserved structure function relationship of the GPCR signaling mechanism in the chordates.

Conclusions

The C. intestinalis genome encodes a highly conserved, albeit, limited repertoire of the heterotrimeric G protein complexes with the size of subunit types comparable with that in lower eukaryotes.

Functional redundancy of R7 RGS proteins in ON-bipolar cell dendrites

PURPOSE

In the Gbeta5(-/-) mouse, the electroretinogram (ERG) b-wave is absent, and the R7 subfamily of regulators of G protein signaling (RGS), which includes RGS6, -7, -9, and -11, is downregulated. Mutant mouse strains deficient in RGS7 or -11 were characterized, and the SG711 strain which is deficient in both proteins was examined, to learn whether the loss of some of these RGS proteins causes the absence of the ERG b-wave.

METHODS

Antibodies to RGS7 and -11 were generated to determine their expression levels and localizations in retinas with various genetic backgrounds by Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The implicit times and amplitudes of ERG a- and b-waves were analyzed to examine photoreceptor and bipolar cell functions.

RESULTS

RGS7 and -11 co-localized to the dendritic tips of the ON-bipolar cells. In the RGS11(-/-) mouse, the level of RGS7 protein increased. However, the level of RGS11 protein remained unchanged in the RGS7 mutant mouse, where a truncated RGS7 protein was expressed due to the deletion of exon 10. In the SG711 mouse retina, the Gbeta5-S protein level was reduced. The ERG b-wave of SG711 mice was markedly delayed. In contrast, RGS11(-/-) mice showed a moderately delayed b-wave, whereas the RGS7 mutant mice showed normal ERG responses.

CONCLUSIONS

The data demonstrate the presence of a delayed ERG b-wave in SG711 mice and a functionally redundant role for RGS11 and -7 at the tips of ON-bipolar cell dendrites. These results suggest that RGS11 or -7 works as the major physiological GAP (GTPase acceleration protein) for Galphao1 in ON-bipolar cells.

The R7 RGS protein family: multi-subunit regulators of neuronal G protein signaling

G protein-coupled receptor signaling pathways mediate the transmission of signals from the extracellular environment to the generation of cellular responses, a process that is critically important for neurons and neurotransmitter action. The ability to promptly respond to rapidly changing stimulation requires timely inactivation of G proteins, a process controlled by a family of specialized proteins known as regulators of G protein signaling (RGS). The R7 group of RGS proteins (R7 RGS) has received special attention due to their pivotal roles in the regulation of a range of crucial neuronal processes such as vision, motor control, reward behavior, and nociception in mammals. Four proteins in this group, RGS6, RGS7, RGS9, and RGS11, share a common molecular organization of three modules: (i) the catalytic RGS domain, (ii) a GGL domain that recruits G beta(5), an outlying member of the G protein beta subunit family, and (iii) a DEP/DHEX domain that mediates interactions with the membrane anchor proteins R7BP and R9AP. As heterotrimeric complexes, R7 RGS proteins not only associate with and regulate a number of G protein signaling pathway components, but have also been found to form complexes with proteins that are not traditionally associated with G protein signaling. This review summarizes our current understanding of the biology of the R7 RGS complexes including their structure/functional organization, protein-protein interactions, and physiological roles.

Isolation of ON bipolar cell genes via hrGFP-coupled cell enrichment using the mGluR6 promoter

mGluR6 expression is a characteristic property of retinal ON bipolar cells. mGluR6 is also the causal gene for a form of congenital night blindness. To elucidate physiological and pathological functions of ON bipolar cells and mGluR6, we thought it important to identify genes specifically expressed in them. We thus made transgenic mouse lines expressing humanized Renilla reniformis green fluorescent protein (hrGFP), under the control of the mGluR6 promoter. From their retina, we isolated hrGFP-positive cells by cell sorting, and analysed the gene-expression profile of these cells by using DNA microarray. Further analysis revealed that about half of the initially selected ON bipolar cell genes were expressed in the expected retinal layer. We confirmed previously ambiguous retinal localization of regulator of G-protein signalling 11 (RGS11) and transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily M, member 1 (TRPM1). In addition, we showed the expression of calcium channel, voltage-dependent, alpha2/delta subunit 3 (Cacna2d3) in ON bipolar cells for the first time. Although we could not completely exclude the possibility that a small population of hrGFP-positive cells might not be ON bipolar cells, these mice as well as our strategy would be highly valuable for the further analysis of ON bipolar cells.

Structural determinants involved in the formation and activation of G protein betagamma dimers

Heterotrimeric G proteins, composed of an alpha, beta and gamma subunit, represent one of the most important and dynamic families of signaling proteins. As a testament to the significance of G protein signaling, the hundreds of seven-transmembrane-spanning receptors that interact with G proteins are estimated to occupy 1-2% of the human genome. This broad diversity of receptors is echoed in the number of potential heterotrimer combinations that can arise from the 23 alpha subunit, 7 beta subunit and 12 gamma subunit isoforms that have been identified. The potential for such vast complexity implies that the receptor G protein interface is the site of much regulation. The historical model for the activation of a G protein holds that activated receptor catalyzes the exchange of GDP for GTP on the alpha subunit, inducing a conformational change that substantially lowers the affinity of alpha for betagamma. This decreased affinity enables dissociation of betagamma from alpha and receptor. The free form of betagamma is thought to activate effectors, until the hydrolysis of GTP by G alpha (aided by RGS proteins) allows the subunits to re-associate, effectively deactivating the G protein until another interaction with activated receptor.

G protein βγ subunits: central mediators of G protein-coupled receptor signaling

G protein betagamma subunits are central participants in G protein-coupled receptor signaling pathways. They interact with receptors, G protein alpha subunits and downstream targets to coordinate multiple, different GPCR functions. Much is known about the biology of Gbetagamma subunits but mysteries remain. Here, we will review what is known about general aspects of structure and function of Gbetagamma as well as discuss emerging mechanisms for regulation of Gbetagamma signaling. Recent data suggest that Gbetagamma is a potential therapeutic drug target. Thus, a thorough understanding of the molecular and physiological functions of Gbetagamma has significant implications.

Gbeta5 is required for normal light responses and morphology of retinal ON-bipolar cells

Gbeta5 exists as two splice variants, Gbeta5-S and Gbeta5-L, which interact with and stabilize the R7 members of the regulators of G-protein signaling (RGSs): RGS6, RGS7, RGS9, and RGS11. Although the role of Gbeta5-L and RGS9-1 is established in photoreceptors, the physiological functions of Gbeta5-S and other R7 RGS proteins remain unclear. We found that the electroretinogram of Gbeta5-/- mice lacks the b-wave component and that Gbeta5-S and RGS11 colocalize with Go alpha at the tips of the ON-bipolar cell dendrites. Unexpectedly, we found a significant reduction in the number of synaptic triads in the outer plexiform layer (OPL) of the Gbeta5-/- mice, which is evident at postnatal day 14. Transgenic expression of Gbeta5-L in rods failed to rescue the b-wave or the OPL defects. These results indicate that Gbeta5-S is indispensable for OPL integrity and normal light responses of the retina.

Gbeta5-RGS complexes co-localize with mGluR6 in retinal ON-bipolar cells

The time course of G-protein-coupled responses is largely determined by the kinetics of GTP hydrolysis by the G protein alpha subunit, which is accelerated by interaction with regulator of G-protein signaling (RGS) proteins. Light responses of ON-bipolar cells of the vertebrate retina require rapid inactivation of the G protein Galphao, which is activated in the dark by metabotropic glutamate receptor, mGluR6, in their dendritic tips. It is not yet known, however, which RGS protein(s) might be responsible for rapid inactivation kinetics. By immunofluorescence and co-immunoprecipitation, we have identified complexes of the Galphao-selective RGS proteins RGS7 and RGS11, with their obligate binding partner, Gbeta5, that are localized to the dendritic tips of murine rod and cone ON-bipolar cells, along with mGluR6. Experiments using pre- and post-synaptic markers, and a dissociated bipolar cell preparation, clearly identified the location of these complexes as the ON-bipolar cell dendritic tips and not the adjacent photoreceptor terminals or horizontal cell dendrites. In mice lacking mGluR6, the distribution of RGS11, RGS7 and Gbeta5 shifts away from the dendritic tips, implying a functional relationship with mGluR6. The precise co-localization of Gbeta5-RGS7 and Gbeta5-RGS11 with mGluR6, and the dependence of localization on the presence of mGluR6, suggests that Gbeta5-RGS7 and Gbeta5-RGS11 function specifically in the mGluR6 signal transduction pathway, where they may stimulate the GTPase activity of Galphao, thus accelerating the ON-bipolar cell light response, in a manner analogous to the acceleration of photoreceptor light responses by the Gbeta5-RGS9-1 complex.

R7-binding protein targets the G protein beta 5/R7-regulator of G protein signaling complex to lipid rafts in neuronal cells and brain

Background

Heterotrimeric guanine nucleotide-binding regulatory proteins (G proteins), composed of Gα, Gβ, and Gγ subunits, are positioned at the inner face of the plasma membrane and relay signals from activated G protein-coupled cell surface receptors to various signaling pathways. Gβ5 is the most structurally divergent Gβ isoform and forms tight heterodimers with regulator of G protein signalling (RGS) proteins of the R7 subfamily (R7-RGS). The subcellular localization of Gβ 5/R7-RGS protein complexes is regulated by the palmitoylation status of the associated R7-binding protein (R7BP), a recently discovered SNARE-like protein. We investigate here whether R7BP controls the targeting of Gβ5/R7-RGS complexes to lipid rafts, cholesterol-rich membrane microdomains where conventional heterotrimeric G proteins and some effector proteins are concentrated in neurons and brain.

Results

We show that endogenous Gβ5/R7-RGS/R7BP protein complexes are present in native neuron-like PC12 cells and that a fraction is targeted to low-density, detergent-resistant membrane lipid rafts. The buoyant density of endogenous raft-associated Gβ5/R7-RGS protein complexes in PC12 cells was similar to that of lipid rafts containing the palmitoylated marker proteins PSD-95 and LAT, but distinct from that of the membrane microdomain where flotillin was localized. Overexpression of wild-type R7BP, but not its palmitoylation-deficient mutant, greatly enriched the fraction of endogenous Gβ5/R7-RGS protein complexes in the lipid rafts. In HEK-293 cells the palmitoylation status of R7BP also regulated the lipid raft targeting of co-expressed Gβ5/R7-RGS/R7BP proteins. A fraction of endogenous Gβ5/R7-RGS/R7BP complexes was also present in lipid rafts in mouse brain.

Conclusion

A fraction of Gβ5/R7-RGS/R7BP protein complexes is targeted to low-density, detergent-resistant membrane lipid rafts in PC12 cells and brain. In cultured cells, the palmitoylation status of R7BP regulated the lipid raft targeting of endogenous or co-expressed Gβ5/R7-RGS proteins. Taken together with recent evidence that the kinetic effects of the Gβ5 complex on GPCR signaling are greatly enhanced by R7BP palmitoylation through a membrane-anchoring mechanism, our data suggest the targeting of the Gβ5/R7-RGS/R7BP complex to lipid rafts in neurons and brain, where G proteins and their effectors are concentrated, may be central to the G protein regulatory function of the complex.

Live cell analysis of G protein beta5 complex formation, function, and targeting

The G protein beta(5) subunit differs from other beta subunits in having divergent sequence and subcellular localization patterns. Although beta(5)gamma(2) modulates effectors, beta(5) associates with R7 family regulators of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins when purified from tissues. To investigate beta(5) complex formation in vivo, we used multicolor bimolecular fluorescence complementation in human embryonic kidney 293 cells to compare the abilities of 7 gamma subunits and RGS7 to compete for interaction with beta(5). Among the gamma subunits, beta(5) interacted preferentially with gamma(2), followed by gamma(7), and efficacy of phospholipase C-beta2 activation correlated with amount of beta(5)gamma complex formation. beta(5) also slightly preferred gamma(2) over RGS7. In the presence of coexpressed R7 family binding protein (R7BP), beta(5) interacted similarly with gamma(2) and RGS7. Moreover, gamma(2) interacted preferentially with beta(1) rather than beta(5). These results suggest that multiple coexpressed proteins influence beta(5) complex formation. Fluorescent beta(5)gamma(2) labeled discrete intracellular structures including the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, whereas beta(5)RGS7 stained the cytoplasm diffusely. Coexpression of alpha(o) targeted both beta(5) complexes to the plasma membrane, and alpha(q) also targeted beta(5)gamma(2) to the plasma membrane. The constitutively activated alpha(o) mutant, alpha(o)R179C, produced greater targeting of beta(5)RGS7 and less of beta(5)gamma(2) than did alpha(o). These results suggest that alpha(o) may cycle between interactions with beta(5)gamma(2) or other betagamma complexes when inactive, and beta(5)RGS7 when active. Moreover, the ability of beta(5)gamma(2) to be targeted to the plasma membrane by alpha subunits suggests that functional beta(5)gamma(2) complexes can form in intact cells and mediate signaling by G protein-coupled receptors.

Expansion of signal transduction by G proteins. The second 15 years or so: from 3 to 16 alpha subunits plus betagamma dimers

The first 15 years, or so, brought the realization that there existed a G protein coupled signal transduction mechanism by which hormone receptors regulate adenylyl cyclases and the light receptor rhodopsin activates visual phosphodiesterase. Three G proteins, Gs, Gi and transducin (T) had been characterized as alphabetagamma heterotrimers, and Gsalpha-GTP and Talpha-GTP had been identified as the sigaling arms of Gs and T. These discoveries were made using classical biochemical approaches, and culminated in the purification of these G proteins. The second 15 years, or so, are the subject of the present review. This time coincided with the advent of powerful recombinant DNA techniques. Combined with the classical approaches, the field expanded the repertoire of G proteins from 3 to 16, discovered the superfamily of seven transmembrane G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) -- which is not addressed in this article -- and uncovered an amazing repertoire of effector functions regulated not only by alphaGTP complexes but also by betagamma dimers. Emphasis is placed in presenting how the field developed with the hope of conveying why many of the new findings were made.

Localization and differential interaction of R7 RGS proteins with their membrane anchors R7BP and R9AP in neurons of vertebrate retina

G protein signaling in the retina is crucially regulated by the R7 family of regulators of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins, which act to stimulate the rate of G protein inactivation. Recent findings indicate that R7 RGS proteins form complexes with two newly identified membrane anchors: RGS9 Anchor Protein (R9AP) and R7 Binding Protein (R7BP), which play essential roles in modulating the expression and localization of R7 RGS proteins. Here we demonstrate that the four R7 RGS proteins: RGS6, RGS7, RGS9 and RGS11 differentially associate with two membrane anchors. R9AP was found to form complexes with RGS9 and RGS11 which were substantially enriched in the photoreceptors. In contrast, complexes of R7BP with R7 RGS proteins were predominantly localized to the synaptic projections of retina neurons, suggesting their involvement in regulation of synaptic transmission between retina neurons. Furthermore, studies of knockout mice revealed that R9AP is necessary for the expression of only RGS9 but not for RGS6, 7 or 11. Together these data suggest that R7 RGS proteins in the retina are present as macromolecular complexes with their membrane anchors that could differentially regulate their function in various retina neurons.

Direct G protein modulation of Cav2 calcium channels

The regulation of presynaptic, voltage-gated calcium channels by activation of heptahelical G protein-coupled receptors exerts a crucial influence on presynaptic calcium entry and hence on neurotransmitter release. Receptor activation subjects presynaptic N- and P/Q-type calcium channels to a rapid, membrane-delimited inhibition-mediated by direct, voltage-dependent interactions between G protein betagamma subunits and the channels-and to a slower, voltage-independent modulation involving soluble second messenger molecules. In turn, the direct inhibition of the channels is regulated as a function of many factors, including channel subtype, ancillary calcium channel subunits, and the types of G proteins and G protein regulatory factors involved. Twenty-five years after this mode of physiological regulation was first described, we review the investigations that have led to our current understanding of its molecular mechanisms.

Immunohistochemical localization of G protein betagamma subunits in the lateral wall of the rat cochlea

The role of G protein-mediated signal transduction in the production of endolymph, an extracellular fluid of unusual ionic composition, is beginning to be understood. The identity of Galpha subunits in the stria vascularis and the spiral ligament of the lateral wall of the cochlear duct is well established. However, little is known about the presence of betagamma subunits. This study used immunohistochemistry to investigate the distribution of G protein betagamma subunits in the lateral wall of the cochlea. Temporal bones of 6- to 8-week-old rats were fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde and 0.1% glutaraldehyde and processed for embedding in paraffin wax. The dewaxed, midmodiolar sections of the cochlea were incubated with subunit-specific polyclonal antibodies. The results show that the pattern of immunoreactivity varies for the G protein beta1-4 and gamma1-3, 5 and 7 subunits in the stria vascularis and spiral ligament. In the stria vascularis, immunoreactivity was detected for beta2, beta3, beta4, gamma1, gamma2 and gamma7 subunits. All five types of fibrocytes in the spiral ligament exhibited positive staining for gamma2 and gamma7. However, immunoreactivity for beta1-4 subunits was variable. Immunoreactivity for gamma3 and gamma5 subunits was not detected in the lateral cochlear wall. The expression pattern of G protein betagamma subunits in lateral wall provides a basis for interpreting the functions of G protein-coupled receptors in cochlear fluid homeostasis.

The vertebrate phototransduction cascade: amplification and termination mechanisms

The biochemical cascade which transduces light into a neuronal signal in retinal photoreceptors is a heterotrimeric GTP-binding protein (G protein) signaling pathway called phototransduction. Works from psychophysicists, electrophysiologists, biochemists, and geneticists over several decades have come together to shape our understanding of how photon absorption leads to photoreceptor membrane hyperpolarization. The insights of phototransduction provide the foundation for a mechanistic account of signaling from many other G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) found throughout nature. The application of reverse genetic techniques has strengthened many historic findings and helped to describe this pathway at greater molecular details. However, many important questions remain to be answered.

Chronic morphine acts via a protein kinase Cgamma-G(beta)-adenylyl cyclase complex to augment phosphorylation of G(beta) and G(betagamma) stimulatory adenylyl cyclase signaling

Chronic morphine augments protein kinase C (PKC) phosphorylation of G(beta), which enhances the potency of G(betagamma) to stimulate adenylyl cyclase II (ACII) activity. The present study demonstrates an in vivo association between phosphorylated G(beta) and a specific PKC isoform, PKCgamma. We investigated the association of G(beta) and PKCgamma by assessing the ability of anti-PKCgamma antibodies to co-immunoprecipitate G(beta) from (32)P-radiolabeled Chinese Hamster Ovary cells stably transfected with a mu-opioid receptor (MOR-CHO). PKCgamma immunoprecipitate (IP) obtained from MOR-CHO membranes contained radiolabeled signals of approximately equals 33 and 36--38 kDa that were subsequently identified as G(beta)(s). Chronic morphine significantly increased ( approximately equals 75%) the magnitude of (32)P incorporated into G(beta) present in PKCgamma IP. This suggests that G(beta) is an in vivo substrate for PKCgamma, which mediates the chronic morphine-induced increment in G(beta) phosphorylation. In order to evaluate AC as a putative effector for phosphorylated G(betagamma), its presence in IP obtained using anti-AC antibodies was evaluated. Autoradiographic analyses of AC IP also revealed the presence of phosphorylated G(beta)(s), the magnitude of which was significantly enhanced ( approximately equals 60%) following chronic morphine treatment. This indicates that phosphorylated G(betagamma) associates and presumably interacts in vivo with AC, indicating that it is a target for the enhanced phosphorylated G(betagamma) that is generated following chronic morphine treatment. This would contribute to the previously observed shift from predominantly G(ialpha) inhibitory to G(betagamma) stimulatory AC signaling following chronic morphine. The PKCgamma-G(beta)-AC complex identified in this study provides an organizational framework for understanding the well-documented participation of PKCgamma in opioid tolerance-producing mechanisms.

Effector antagonism by the regulators of G protein signalling (RGS) proteins causes desensitization of mu-opioid receptors in the CNS

RATIONALE

In cell culture systems, agonists can promote the phosphorylation and internalization of receptors coupled to G proteins (GPCR), leading to their desensitization. However, in the CNS opioid agonists promote a profound desensitization of their analgesic effects without diminishing the presence of their receptors in the neuronal membrane. Recent studies have indicated that CNS proteins of the RGS family, specific regulators of G protein signalling, may be involved in mu-opioid receptor desensitization in vivo.

OBJECTIVE

In this work we review the role played by RGS proteins in the intensity and duration of the effects of mu-opioid receptor agonists, and how they influence the delayed tolerance that develops in response to specific doses of opioids.

RESULTS

RGS proteins are GTPase-activating proteins (GAP) that accelerate the hydrolysis of GalphaGTP to terminate signalling at effectors. The GAP activity of RGS-R4 and RGS-Rz proteins restricts the amplitude of opioid analgesia, and the efficient deactivation of GalphazGTP subunits by RGS-Rz proteins prevents mu receptor desensitization. However, RGS-R7 proteins antagonize effectors by binding to and sequestering mu receptor-activated Galphai/o/z subunits. Thus, they reduce the pool of receptor-regulated G proteins and hence, the effects of agonists. The delayed tolerance observed following morphine administration correlates with the transfer of Galpha subunits from mu receptors to RGS-R7 proteins and the subsequent stabilization of this association.

CONCLUSION

In the CNS, the RGS proteins control the activity of mu opioid receptors through GAP-dependent (RGS-R4 and RGS-Rz) as well as by GAP-independent mechanisms (RGS-R7). As a result, they can both antagonize effectors and desensitize receptors under certain circumstances.

Biochemical purification and functional analysis of complexes between the G-protein subunit Gbeta5 and RGS proteins

Regulator of G-protein signaling (RGS) proteins of the R7 subfamily (RGS6, 7, 9, and 11) contain a unique Ggamma-like (GGL) domain that enables their association with the G-protein beta subunit Gbeta5. The existence of these complexes was demonstrated by their purification from native tissues as well as by reconstitution in vitro. According to pulse-chase analysis, Gbeta5 and RGS7 monomers undergo rapid proteolytic degradation in cells, whereas the dimer is stable. Studies of the functional role of Gbeta5-RGS dimers using GTPase activity, ion channel, and calcium mobilization assays showed that, similarly to other RGS proteins, they can negatively regulate G-protein-mediated signal transduction. Protein-protein interactions involving the Gbeta5-RGS7 complex can be studied in cells using fluorescence resonance energy transfer utilizing Gbeta5, RGS, and Galpha subunits fused to the cyan and yellow versions of green fluorescent protein.

Co-operation of Gsalpha and Gbetagamma in maintaining G2 arrest in Xenopus oocytes

Progesterone-induced oocyte maturation is thought to involve the inhibition of an oocyte adenylyl cyclase and reduction of intracellular cAMP. Our previous studies demonstrated that injection of inhibitors of G protein betagamma complex induces hormone-independent oocyte maturation. In contrast, over-expression of Xenopus Gbeta1 (xGbeta1), alone or together with bovine Ggamma2, elevates oocyte cAMP and inhibits progesterone-induced oocyte maturation. To further investigate the mechanism of Gbetagamma-induced oocyte maturation, we generated a mutant xGbeta1, substituting Asp-228 for Gly (D228G). An equivalent mutation in the mammalian Gbeta1 results in the loss of its ability to activate adenylyl cyclases. Indeed, co-injection of xGbeta1D228G with Ggamma2 failed to increase oocyte cAMP or inhibit progesterone-induced oocyte maturation. To directly demonstrate that oocytes contained a Gbetagamma-regulated adenylyl cyclase, we analyzed cAMP formation in vitro by using oocyte membrane preparations. Purified brain Gbetagamma complexes significantly activated membrane-bound adenylyl cyclase activities. Multiple adenylyl cyclase isoforms were identified in frog oocytes by PCR using degenerate primers corresponding to highly conserved catalytic amino acid sequences. Among these we identified a partial Xenopus adenylyl cyclase 7 (xAC7) that was 65% identical in amino acid sequence to human AC7. A dominant-negative mutant of xAC7 induced hormone-independent oocyte maturation and accelerated progesterone-induced oocyte maturation. Theses findings suggest that xAC7 is a major component of the G2 arrest mechanism in Xenopus oocytes.

Expression of neural RGS-R7 and Gbeta5 Proteins in Response to Acute and Chronic Morphine

The R7 subfamily of regulators of G-protein signaling (RGS) proteins (RGS6, RGS7, RGS9-2, and RGS11), and its binding protein Gbeta5, are found in neural structures of mouse brain. A single intracerebroventricular priming dose of 10 nmol morphine gave rise to acute tolerance to the analgesic effects of successive identical test doses of the opioid. At 2 h after administering the acute opioid, RGS7 mRNA levels in the striatum plus those of RGS9-2 in the striatum and thalamus were increased, whereas RGS9-2 and RGS11 mRNA were reduced in the cortex. Similar but attenuated RGS-R7 mRNA changes persisted 24 h after acute morphine administration. No changes in Gbeta5 mRNA levels were observed. At 2 days after commencing sustained morphine treatment, the levels of mRNA for RGS7, RGS9-2, RGS11, and Gbeta5 increased in most of the brain structures studied (striatum, thalamus, periaqueductal gray matter (PAG), and cortex). In these morphine tolerant-dependent mice, the greater changes were found for RGS9-2 in the thalamus (>500%) and PAG (>200%). In post-dependent mice, the increases in RGS-R7 and Gbeta5 mRNA still persisted in the PAG and striatum at 8 and 16 days after starting the chronic opioid treatment. The raised mRNA levels promoted by chronic, but not by acute, morphine, were accompanied by increases in the encoded proteins. This is probably a result of the costabilization of the RGS-R7 and Gbeta5 proteins forming heterodimers. Opioid-induced adaptations of RGS-R7 and Gbeta5 genes may regulate the severity of morphine-induced tolerance/dependence and the duration of the post-dependent period, helping to recover the normal response.

Enhancement of pheromone response by RGS9 and Gβ5 in yeast

The G-protein gamma-subunit-like (GGL) domain present within a subfamily of RGS proteins binds specifically to Gbeta5. This interaction and resulting biological effect impacts the standard model of heterotrimeric G-protein signaling. It has been hypothesized that the RGS/Gbeta5 may potentially substitute for Gbetagamma in the heterotrimeric complex. Saccharomyces cerevisiae pheromone responsive mating signaling pathway is primarily driven by Gbetagamma. We evaluated GGL containing RGS9 and RGS7 for functional complementation in a RGS (sst2Delta) knockout yeast strain. The potential of Gbeta5 to augment the function of these RGS proteins was also evaluated. While Gbeta5 had no effect on RGS7, coexpression of Gbeta5 with RGS9 enhanced cell cycle arrest, suggesting that under certain conditions, RGS9 and Gbeta5 may possibly function as betagamma dimer. Furthermore, we demonstrate that Gbeta5 can complement a ste4Delta, the yeast beta-subunit, thus providing the first evidence of functional complementation of a mammalian Gbeta.