Identification of residues essential for carbohydrate recognition by the insulin-like growth factor II/mannose 6-phosphate receptor

Allosteric regulation of lysosomal enzyme recognition by the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor

The cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR, IGF2 receptor or CD222), is a multifunctional glycoprotein required for normal development. Through the receptor's ability to bind unrelated extracellular and intracellular ligands, it participates in numerous functions including protein trafficking, lysosomal biogenesis, and regulation of cell growth. Clinically, endogenous CI-MPR delivers infused recombinant enzymes to lysosomes in the treatment of lysosomal storage diseases. Although four of the 15 domains comprising CI-MPR's extracellular region bind phosphorylated glycans on lysosomal enzymes, knowledge of how CI-MPR interacts with ~60 different lysosomal enzymes is limited. Here, we show by electron microscopy and hydroxyl radical protein footprinting that the N-terminal region of CI-MPR undergoes dynamic conformational changes as a consequence of ligand binding and different pH conditions. These data, coupled with X-ray crystallography, surface plasmon resonance and molecular modeling, allow us to propose a model explaining how high-affinity carbohydrate binding is achieved through allosteric domain cooperativity.

Structure of the Human Cation-Independent Mannose 6-Phosphate/IGF2 Receptor Domains 7-11 Uncovers the Mannose 6-Phosphate Binding Site of Domain 9

The cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate (M6P)/Insulin-like growth factor-2 receptor (CI-MPR/IGF2R) is an ∼300 kDa transmembrane protein responsible for trafficking M6P-tagged lysosomal hydrolases and internalizing IGF2. The extracellular region of the CI-MPR has 15 homologous domains, including M6P-binding domains (D) 3, 5, 9, and 15 and IGF2-binding domain 11. We have focused on solving the first structures of human D7-10 within two multi-domain constructs, D9-10 and D7-11, and provide the first high-resolution description of the high-affinity M6P-binding D9. Moreover, D9 stabilizes a well-defined hub formed by D7-11 whereby two penta-domains intertwine to form a dimeric helical-type coil via an N-glycan bridge on D9. Remarkably the D7-11 structure matches an IGF2-bound state of the receptor, suggesting this may be an intrinsically stable conformation at neutral pH. Interdomain clusters of histidine and proline residues may impart receptor rigidity and play a role in structural transitions at low pH.

Mannose 6-phosphate-dependent lysosomal enzyme targeting in hydra: a biochemical, immunological and structural elucidation

Mannose 6-phosphate (M6P)-dependent lysosomal enzyme targeting to endosome/lysosome complex is poorly understood among lower invertebrates. So far, only a M6P-independent lysosomal enzyme sorting protein, named LERP, has been described in Drosophila. Here, we have identified mannose 6-phosphate receptor (MPR) homologues in Hydra vulgaris, a basal Cnidarian, at genome level and further purified a cation-dependent MPR-like protein from hydra using affinity chromatography. Structural comparisons of hydra MPRs with mammalian MPRs confirm that the residues important for interacting with the M6P ligand are conserved. Based on our results, we report for the first time the occurrence of MPR-related proteins and M6P-dependent lysosomal enzyme targeting in H. vulgaris.

Cathepsin D plays a role in endothelial-pericyte interactions during alteration of the blood-retinal barrier in diabetic retinopathy

Inflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy. We have previously demonstrated the effect of cathepsin D (CD) on the mechanical disruption of retinal endothelial cell junctions and increased vasopermeability, as well as increased levels of CD in retinas of diabetic mice. Here, we have also examined the effect of CD on endothelial-pericyte interactions, as well as the effect of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitor on CD in endothelial-pericyte interactions in vitro and in vivo. Cocultured cells that were treated with pro-CD demonstrated a significant decrease in the expression of platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β, a tyrosine kinase receptor that is required for pericyte cell survival; N-cadherin, the key adherens junction protein between endothelium and pericytes; and increases in the vessel destabilizing agent, angiopoietin-2. The effect was reversed in cells that were treated with DPP4 inhibitor along with pro-CD. With pro-CD treatment, there was a significant increase in the phosphorylation of the downstream signaling protein, PKC-α, and Ca²⁺/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II in endothelial cells and pericytes, which disrupts adherens junction structure and function, and this was significantly reduced with DPP4 inhibitor treatment. Increased CD levels, vasopermeability, and alteration in junctional-related proteins were observed in the retinas of diabetic rats, which were significantly changed with DPP4 inhibitor treatment. Thus, DPP4 inhibitors may be used as potential adjuvant therapeutic agents to treat increased vascular leakage observed in patients with diabetic macular edema.-Monickaraj, F., McGuire, P., Das, A. Cathepsin D plays a role in endothelial-pericyte interactions during alteration of the blood-retinal barrier in diabetic retinopathy.

Insulin-Like Growth Factor-II/Cation-Independent Mannose 6-Phosphate Receptor in Neurodegenerative Diseases

The insulin-like growth factor II/mannose 6-phosphate (IGF-II/M6P) receptor is a multifunctional single transmembrane glycoprotein. Recent studies have advanced our understanding of the structure, ligand-binding properties, and trafficking of the IGF-II/M6P receptor. This receptor has been implicated in a variety of important cellular processes including growth and development, clearance of IGF-II, proteolytic activation of enzymes, and growth factor precursors, in addition to its well-known role in the delivery of lysosomal enzymes. The IGF-II/M6P receptor, distributed widely in the central nervous system, has additional roles in mediating neurotransmitter release and memory enhancement/consolidation, possibly through activating IGF-II-related intracellular signaling pathways. Recent studies suggest that overexpression of the IGF-II/M6P receptor may have an important role in regulating the levels of transcripts and proteins involved in the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD)-the prevalent cause of dementia affecting the elderly population in our society. It is reported that IGF-II/M6P receptor overexpression can increase the levels/processing of amyloid precursor protein leading to the generation of β-amyloid peptide, which is associated with degeneration of neurons and subsequent development of AD pathology. Given the significance of the receptor in mediating the transport and functioning of the lysosomal enzymes, it is being considered for therapeutic delivery of enzymes to the lysosomes to treat lysosomal storage disorders. Notwithstanding these results, additional studies are required to validate and fully characterize the function of the IGF-II/M6P receptor in the normal brain and its involvement in various neurodegenerative disorders including AD. It is also critical to understand the interaction between the IGF-II/M6P receptor and lysosomal enzymes in neurodegenerative processes, which may shed some light on developing approaches to detect and prevent neurodegeneration through the dysfunction of the receptor and the endosomal-lysosomal system.

Controlled Synthesis of End-Functionalized Mannose-6-phosphate Glycopolypeptides for Lysosome Targeting

The ubiquitous expression of the mannose-6-phosphate receptor on the majority of human cells makes it a valid target in the quest to deliver therapeutics selectively to the lysosome. In this work end-functionalized polyvalent mannose-6-phosphate glycopolypeptides (M6P-GPs) with high molecular weights (up to 22 kDa) have been synthesized via NCA polymerization. These synthetic M6P-GPs were found to display minimal toxicity to cells in vitro and show exceptional selectivity for trafficking into lysosomes in various cell lines. Comparison of the cellular uptake behavior of M6P-GP and the corresponding mannose-GP polymer reveals that incorporation of the phosphate moiety at the 6-position of mannose completely alters its trafficking behavior and becomes exclusively lysosome specific. We also demonstrate that trafficking of M6P-GPs in mammalian cells is likely associated with the CI-MPR receptor pathway.

Multiple Domains of GlcNAc-1-phosphotransferase Mediate Recognition of Lysosomal Enzymes

The Golgi enzyme UDP-GlcNAc:lysosomal enzymeN-acetylglucosamine-1-phosphotransferase (GlcNAc-1-phosphotransferase), an α2β2γ2hexamer, mediates the initial step in the addition of the mannose 6-phosphate targeting signal on newly synthesized lysosomal enzymes. This tag serves to direct the lysosomal enzymes to lysosomes. A key property of GlcNAc-1-phosphotransferase is its unique ability to distinguish the 60 or so lysosomal enzymes from the numerous non-lysosomal glycoproteins with identical Asn-linked glycans. In this study, we demonstrate that the two Notch repeat modules and the DNA methyltransferase-associated protein interaction domain of the α subunit are key components of this recognition process. Importantly, different combinations of these domains are involved in binding to individual lysosomal enzymes. This study also identifies the γ-binding site on the α subunit and demonstrates that in the majority of instances the mannose 6-phosphate receptor homology domain of the γ subunit is required for optimal phosphorylation. These findings serve to explain how GlcNAc-1-phosphotransferase recognizes a large number of proteins that lack a common structural motif.

Cathepsin D: an Mϕ-derived factor mediating increased endothelial cell permeability with implications for alteration of the blood-retinal barrier in diabetic retinopathy

Inflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy (DR). We have previously reported increased monocyte (Mono) trafficking into the retinas of diabetic animals. In this study, we have examined the effect of activated Monos on retinal endothelial cells (ECs). The U937 Mϕ-conditioned medium (CM) significantly decreased the transendothelial resistance of EC monolayers as measured by electric cell-substrate impedance sensing (P= 0.007). The CM was fractioned, and the effective fraction (30-100 kDa) was analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and cathepsin D (CD) was identified as a major secreted product. Immunoprecipitated CD resulted in decreased resistance in ECs (P= 0.006). The specificity of CD in mediating alterations of the EC barrier was confirmed using small interfering RNA. The decreased resistance correlated with a significantly increased gap between ECs. CD altered the Ras homolog gene family, member A/Rho-associated kinase pathway with increased stress actin filament formation in the EC layer. Increased CD levels were found in the retinas of diabetic mice (3-fold) and serum samples of patients with diabetic macular edema (1.6-fold) measured by Western blot and ELISA. These findings suggest an important role for Mϕ-derived CD in altering the blood-retinal barrier and reveal a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of DR.-Monickaraj, F., McGuire, P. G., Nitta, C. F., Ghosh, K., Das, A. Cathepsin D: an Mϕ-derived factor mediating increased endothelial cell permeability with implications for alteration of the blood-retinal barrier in diabetic retinopathy.

Glucosidase II and MRH-domain containing proteins in the secretory pathway

N-glycosylation in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) consists of the transfer of a preassembled glycan conserved among species (Glc3Man9GlcNAc2) from a lipid donor to a consensus sequence within a nascent protein that is entering the ER. The protein-linked glycans are then processed by glycosidases and glycosyltransferases in the ER producing specific structures that serve as signalling molecules for the fate of the folding glycoprotein: to stay in the ER during the folding process, to be retrotranslocated to the cytosol for proteasomal degradation if irreversibly misfolded, or to pursue transit through the secretory pathway as a mature glycoprotein. In the ER, each glycan signalling structure is recognized by a specific lectin. A domain similar to that of the mannose 6-phosphate receptors (MPRs) has been identified in several proteins of the secretory pathway. These include the beta subunit of glucosidase II (GII), a key enzyme in the early processing of the transferred glycan that removes middle and innermost glucoses and is involved in quality control of glycoprotein folding in the ER (QC), the lectins OS-9 and XTP3-B, proteins involved in the delivery of ER misfolded proteins to degradation (ERAD), the gamma subunit of the Golgi GlcNAc-1-phosphotransferase, an enzyme involved in generating the mannose 6-phosphate (M6P) signal for sorting acidic hydrolases to lysosomes, and finally the MPRs that deliver those hydrolytic enzymes to the lysosome. Each of the MRH-containing proteins recognizes a different signalling N-glycan structure. Three-dimensional structures of some of the MRH domains have been solved, providing the basis to understand recognition mechanisms.

Identification of a fourth mannose 6-phosphate binding site in the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor

The 300 kDa cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR) plays an essential role in lysosome biogenesis by targeting ∼ 60 different phosphomannosyl-containing acid hydrolases to the lysosome. This type I membrane glycoprotein has a large extracellular region comprised of 15 homologous domains. Two mannose 6-phosphate (M6P) binding sites have been mapped to domains 3 and 9, whereas domain 5 binds preferentially to the phosphodiester, M6P-N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc). A structure-based sequence alignment predicts that the C-terminal domain 15 contains three out of the four conserved residues identified as essential for carbohydrate recognition by domains 3, 5 and 9 of the CI-MPR, but lacks two cysteine residues that are predicted to form a disulfide bond. To determine whether domain 15 of the CI-MPR has lectin activity and to probe its carbohydrate-binding specificity, truncated forms of the CI-MPR were tested for binding to acid hydrolases with defined N-glycans in surface plasmon resonance analyses, and used to interrogate a phosphorylated glycan microarray. The results show that a construct encoding domains 14-15 binds both M6P and M6P-GlcNAc with similar affinity (Kd = 13 and 17 μM, respectively). Site-directed mutagenesis studies demonstrate the essential role of the conserved Tyr residue in domain 15 for phosphomannosyl binding. A structural model of domain 15 was generated that predicted an Arg residue to be in the binding pocket and mutagenesis studies confirmed its important role in carbohydrate binding. Together, these results show that the CI-MPR contains a fourth carbohydrate-recognition site capable of binding both phosphomonoesters and phosphodiesters.

A multivalent ligand for the mannose-6-phosphate receptor for endolysosomal targeting of an activity-based probe

The ubiquitously expressed mannose-6-phosphate receptors (MPRs) are a promising class of receptors for targeted compound delivery into the endolysosomal compartments of a variety of cell types. The development of a synthetic, multivalent, mannose-6-phosphate (M6P) glycopeptide-based MPR ligand is described. The conjugation of this ligand to fluorescent DCG-04, an activity-based probe for cysteine cathepsins, enabled fluorescent readout of its receptor-targeting properties. The resulting M6P-cluster-BODIPY-DCG-04 probe was shown to efficiently label cathepsins in cell lysates as well as in live cells. Furthermore, the introduction of the 6-O-phosphates leads to a completely altered uptake profile in COS and dendritic cells compared to a mannose-containing ligand. Competition with mannose-6-phosphate abolished all uptake of the probe in COS cells, and we conclude that the mannose-6-phosphate cluster targets the MPR and ensures the targeted delivery of cargo bound to the cluster into the endolysosomal pathway.

The mannose 6-phosphate-binding sites of M6P/IGF2R determine its capacity to suppress matrix invasion by squamous cell carcinoma cells

The M6P (mannose 6-phosphate)/IGF2R (insulin-like growth factor II receptor) interacts with a variety of factors that impinge on tumour invasion and metastasis. It has been shown that expression of wild-type M6P/IGF2R reduces the tumorigenic and invasive properties of receptor-deficient SCC-VII squamous cell carcinoma cells. We have now used mutant forms of M6P/IGF2R to assess the relevance of the different ligand-binding sites of the receptor for its biological activities in this cellular system. The results of the present study demonstrate that M6P/IGF2R does not require a functional binding site for insulin-like growth factor II for inhibition of anchorage-independent growth and matrix invasion by SCC-VII cells. In contrast, the simultaneous mutation of both M6P-binding sites is sufficient to impair all cellular functions of the receptor tested. These findings highlight that the interaction between M6P/IGF2R and M6P-modified ligands is not only important for intracellular accumulation of lysosomal enzymes and formation of dense lysosomes, but is also crucial for the ability of the receptor to suppress SCC-VII growth and invasion. The present study also shows that some of the biological activities of M6P/IGF2R in SCC-VII cells strongly depend on a functional M6P-binding site within domain 3, thus providing further evidence for the non-redundant cellular functions of the individual carbohydrate-binding domains of the receptor.

P-Type Lectins: Cation-Dependent Mannose-6-Phosphate Receptor

In eukaryotic cells, post-translational modification of secreted proteins and intracellular protein transport between organelles are ubiquitous features. One of the most studied systems is the N-linked glycosylation pathway in the synthesis of secreted glycoproteins (Schrag et al. 2003). The N-linked glycoproteins are subjected to diverse modifications and are transported through ER and Golgi apparatus to their final destinations in- and outside the cell. Incorporation of cargo glycoproteins into transport vesicles is mediated by transmembrane cargo receptors, which have been identified as intracellular lectins. For example, mannose 6-phosphate receptors (Ghosh et al. 2003) function as a cargo receptor for lysosomal proteins in the trans-Golgi network, whereas ERGIC-53 (Zhang et al. 2003) and its yeast orthologs Emp46/47p (Sato and Nakano 2002) are transport lectins for glycoproteins that are transported out of ER.

Mannose 6-phosphate receptor homology (MRH) domain-containing lectins in the secretory pathway

BACKGROUND

The mannose 6-phosphate receptor homology (MRH) domain-containing family of proteins, which include recycling receptors (mannose 6-phosphate receptors, MPRs), resident endoplasmic reticulum (ER) proteins (glucosidase II β-subunit, XTP3-B, OS-9), and a Golgi glycosyltransferase (GlcNAc-phosphotransferase γ-subunit), are characterized by the presence of one or more MRH domains. Many MRH domains act as lectins and bind specific phosphorylated (MPRs) or non-phosphorylated (glucosidase II β-subunit, XTP3-B and OS-9) high mannose-type N-glycans. The MPRs are the only proteins known to bind mannose 6-phosphate (Man-6-P) residues via their MRH domains.

SCOPE OF REVIEW

Recent biochemical and structural studies that have provided valuable insight into the glycan specificity and mechanisms of carbohydrate recognition by this diverse group of MRH domain-containing proteins are highlighted.

MAJOR CONCLUSIONS

Currently, three-dimensional structures are known for ten MRH domains, revealing the conservation of a similar fold. OS-9 and the MPRs use the same four residues (Gln, Arg, Glu, and Tyr) to bind mannose.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

The MRH domain-containing proteins play key roles in the secretory pathway: glucosidase II, XTP3-B, and OS-9 are involved in the recognition of nascent glycoproteins, whereas the MPRs play an essential role in lysosome biogenesis by targeting Man-6-P-containing lysosomal enzymes to the lysosome.

Structural basis for recognition of phosphodiester-containing lysosomal enzymes by the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor

Mannose 6-phosphate (Man-6-P)-dependent trafficking is vital for normal development. The biogenesis of lysosomes, a major cellular site of protein, carbohydrate, and lipid catabolism, depends on the 300-kDa cation-independent Man-6-P receptor (CI-MPR) that transports newly synthesized acid hydrolases from the Golgi. The CI-MPR recognizes lysosomal enzymes bearing the Man-6-P modification, which arises by the addition of GlcNAc-1-phosphate to mannose residues and subsequent removal of GlcNAc by the uncovering enzyme (UCE). The CI-MPR also recognizes lysosomal enzymes that elude UCE maturation and instead display the Man-P-GlcNAc phosphodiester. This ability of the CI-MPR to target phosphodiester-containing enzymes ensures lysosomal delivery when UCE activity is deficient. The extracellular region of the CI-MPR is comprised of 15 repetitive domains and contains three distinct Man-6-P binding sites located in domains 3, 5, and 9, with only domain 5 exhibiting a marked preference for phosphodiester-containing lysosomal enzymes. To determine how the CI-MPR recognizes phosphodiesters, the structure of domain 5 was determined by NMR spectroscopy. Although domain 5 contains only three of the four disulfide bonds found in the other seven domains whose structures have been determined to date, it adopts the same fold consisting of a flattened beta-barrel. Structure determination of domain 5 bound to N-acetylglucosaminyl 6-phosphomethylmannoside, along with mutagenesis studies, revealed the residues involved in diester recognition, including Y679. These results show the mechanism by which the CI-MPR recognizes Man-P-GlcNAc-containing ligands and provides new avenues to investigate the role of phosphodiester-containing lysosomal enzymes in the biogenesis of lysosomes.

Cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor: a composite of distinct phosphomannosyl binding sites

The 300-kDa cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR), which contains multiple mannose 6-phosphate (Man-6-P) binding sites that map to domains 3, 5, and 9 within its 15-domain extracytoplasmic region, functions as an efficient carrier of Man-6-P-containing lysosomal enzymes. To determine the types of phosphorylated N-glycans recognized by each of the three carbohydrate binding sites of the CI-MPR, a phosphorylated glycan microarray was probed with truncated forms of the CI-MPR. Surface plasmon resonance analyses using lysosomal enzymes with defined N-glycans were performed to evaluate whether multiple domains are needed to form a stable, high affinity carbohydrate binding pocket. Like domain 3, adjacent domains increase the affinity of domain 5 for phosphomannosyl residues, with domain 5 exhibiting approximately 60-fold higher affinity for lysosomal enzymes containing the phosphodiester Man-P-GlcNAc when in the context of a construct encoding domains 5-9. In contrast, domain 9 does not require additional domains for high affinity binding. The three sites differ in their glycan specificity, with only domain 5 being capable of recognizing Man-P-GlcNAc. In addition, domain 9, unlike domains 1-3, interacts with Man(8)GlcNAc(2) and Man(9)GlcNAc(2) oligosaccharides containing a single phosphomonoester. Together, these data indicate that the assembly of three unique carbohydrate binding sites allows the CI-MPR to interact with the structurally diverse phosphorylated N-glycans it encounters on newly synthesized lysosomal enzymes.

Carbohydrate recognition by the mannose-6-phosphate receptors

The two P-type lectins, the 46kDa cation-dependent mannose-6-phosphate (Man-6-P) receptor (CD-MPR), and the 300kDa cation-independent Man-6-P receptor (CI-MPR), are the founding members of the growing family of mannose-6-phosphate receptor homology (MRH) proteins. A major cellular function of the MPRs is to transport Man-6-P-containing acid hydrolases from the Golgi to endosomal/lysosomal compartments. Recent advances in the structural analyses of both CD-MPR and CI-MPR have revealed the structural basis for phosphomannosyl recognition by these receptors and provided insights into how the receptors load and unload their cargo. A surprising finding is that the CD-MPR is dynamic, with at least two stable quaternary states, the open (ligand-bound) and closed (ligand-free) conformations, similar to those of hemoglobin. Ligand binding stabilizes the open conformation; changes in the pH of the environment at the cell surface and in endosomal compartments weaken the ligand-receptor interaction and/or weaken the electrostatic interactions at the subunit interface, resulting in the closed conformation.

Mannose-6-phosphate/insulin-like growth factor 2 receptor (M6P/IGF2R) in carcinogenesis

The cation-independent mannose-6-phosphate/insulin-like growth factor 2 receptor (M6P/IGF2R) is a multifunctional receptor. It is involved in a variety of cellular processes which become dysregulated in cancer. Its tumor suppressor role was recognized a long time ago. However, due to its multifunctionality, it is not easy to understand the extent of its relevance to normal cellular physiology. Accordingly, it is even more difficult understanding its role in carcinogenesis. This review presents critical and focused highlights of data relating to M6P/IGF2R, obtained during more than 25 years of cancer research.

Interactions of IGF-II with the IGF2R/cation-independent mannose-6-phosphate receptor mechanism and biological outcomes

The cation-independent mannose-6-phosphate/insulin-like growth factor-II receptor (IGF2R) is a membrane-bound glycoprotein consisting of 15 homologous extracellular repeat domains. The major function of this receptor is trafficking of lysosomal enzymes from the trans-Golgi network to the endosomes and their subsequent transfer to lysosomes. The IGF2R also plays a major role in binding and regulating the circulating and tissue levels of IGF-II. As this ligand is important for cell growth, survival, and migration, the maintenance of correct IGF-II levels influences its actions in normal growth and development. Deregulation of IGF2R expression has therefore been associated with growth related disease and cancer. This review highlights recent advances in understanding the IGF2R structure and mechanism of interaction with its ligands, in particular IGF-II. Recent mutagenesis studies combined with the crystal structure of domains 11-14 in complex with IGF-II have mapped the sites of interaction and explain how the IGF2R specificity for IGF-II is achieved. The role of domain 13 in high-affinity IGF-II binding is also revealed. Characterization of ligand:IGF2R interactions is vital for the understanding of the mechanism of IGF2R actions and will allow the development of specific cancer therapies in the future.

Structure and function of the human Gly1619Arg polymorphism of M6P/IGF2R domain 11 implicated in IGF2 dependent growth

The mannose 6-phosphate/IGF 2 receptor (IGF2R) is comprised of 15 extra-cellular domains that bind IGF2 and mannose 6-phosphate ligands. IGF2R transports ligands from the Golgi to the pre-lysosomal compartment and thereafter to and from the cell surface. IGF2R regulates growth, placental development, tumour suppression and signalling. The ligand IGF2 is implicated in the growth phenotype, where IGF2R normally limits bioavailability, such that loss and gain of IGF2R results in increased and reduced growth respectively. The IGF2R exon 34 (5002A>G) polymorphism (rs629849) of the IGF2 specific binding domain has been correlated with impaired childhood growth (A/A homozygotes). We evaluated the function of the Gly1619Arg non-synonymous amino acid modification of domain 11. NMR and X-ray crystallography structures located 1619 remote from the ligand binding region of domain 11. Arg1619 was located close to the fibronectin type II (FnII) domain of domain 13, previously implicated as a modifier of IGF2 ligand binding through indirect interaction with the AB loop of the binding cleft. However, comparison of binding kinetics of IGF2R, Gly1619 and Arg1619 to either IGF2 or mannose 6-phosphate revealed no differences in 'on' and 'off' rates. Quantitative PCR, (35)S pulse chase and flow cytometry failed to demonstrate altered gene expression, protein half-life and cell membrane distribution, suggesting the polymorphism had no direct effect on receptor function. Intronic polymorphisms were identified which may be in linkage disequilibrium with rs629849 in certain populations. Other potential IGF2R polymorphisms may account for the correlation with childhood growth, warranting further functional evaluation.

High-affinity ligand binding by wild-type/mutant heteromeric complexes of the mannose 6-phosphate/insulin-like growth factor II receptor

The mannose 6-phosphate/insulin-like growth factor II receptor has diverse ligand-binding properties contributing to its roles in lysosome biogenesis and growth suppression. Optimal receptor binding and internalization of mannose 6-phosphate (Man-6-P)-bearing ligands requires a dimeric structure leading to bivalent high-affinity binding, presumably mediated by cooperation between sites on both subunits. Insulin-like growth factor II (IGF-II) binds to a single site on each monomer. It is hypothesized that IGF-II binding to cognate sites on each monomer occurs independently, but bivalent Man-6-P ligand binding requires cooperative contributions from sites on both monomers. To test this hypothesis, we co-immunoprecipitated differentially epitope-tagged soluble mini-receptors and assessed ligand binding. Pairing of wild-type and point-mutated IGF-II binding sites between two dimerized mini-receptors had no effect on the function of the contralateral binding site, indicating IGF-II binding to each side of the dimer is independent and manifests no intersubunit effects. As expected, heterodimeric receptors composed of a wild-type monomer and a mutant bearing two Man-6-P-binding knockout mutations form functional IGF-II binding sites. By contrast to prediction, such heterodimeric receptors also bind Man-6-P-based ligands with high affinity, and the amount of binding can be attributed entirely to the immunoprecipitated wild-type receptors. Anchoring of both C-terminal ends of the heterodimer produces optimal binding of both IGF-II and Man-6-P ligands. Thus, IGF-II binds independently to both subunits of the dimeric mannose 6-phosphate/insulin-like growth factor II receptor. Although wild-type/mutant hetero-oligomers form readily when mixed, it appears that multivalent Man-6-P ligands bind preferentially to wild-type sites, possibly by cross-bridging receptors within clusters of immobilized receptors.

Strategies for carbohydrate recognition by the mannose 6-phosphate receptors

The two members of the P-type lectin family, the 46 kDa cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CD-MPR) and the 300 kDa cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR), are ubiquitously expressed throughout the animal kingdom and are distinguished from all other lectins by their ability to recognize phosphorylated mannose residues. The best-characterized function of the MPRs is their ability to direct the delivery of approximately 60 different newly synthesized soluble lysosomal enzymes bearing mannose 6-phosphate (Man-6-P) on their N-linked oligosaccharides to the lysosome. In addition to its intracellular role in lysosome biogenesis, the CI-MPR, but not the CD-MPR, participates in a number of other biological processes by interacting with various molecules at the cell surface. The list of extracellular ligands recognized by this multifunctional receptor has grown to include a diverse spectrum of Man-6-P-containing proteins as well as several non-Man-6-P-containing ligands. Recent structural studies have given us a clearer view of how these two receptors use related, but yet distinct, approaches in the recognition of phosphomannosyl residues.

A set of phosphatase-inert "molecular rulers" to probe for bivalent mannose 6-phosphate ligand-receptor interactions

A set of bivalent mannose 6-phosphonate 'molecular rulers' has been synthesized to examine ligand binding to the M6P/IGF2R. The set is estimated to span a P-P distance range of 16-26A (MMFF energy minimization on the hydrated phosphonates). Key synthetic transformations include sugar triflate displacement for phosphonate installation and Grubbs I cross-metathesis to achieve bivalency. Relative binding affinities were tested by radioligand displacement assays versus PMP-BSA (pentamannosyl phosphate-bovine serum albumin). These compounds exhibit slightly higher binding affinities for the receptor (IC(50)'s=3.7-5 microM) than the parent, monomeric mannose 6-phosphonate ligand and M6P itself (IC(50)=11.5+/-2.5 microM). These results suggest that the use of an alpha-configured anomeric alkane tether is acceptable, as no significant thermodynamic penalty is apparently paid with this design. On the other hand, the modest gains in binding affinity observed suggest that this ligand set has not yet found true bivalent interaction with the M6P/IGF2R (i.e., simultaneous binding to two distinct M6P-binding pockets).

Mannose 6-phosphate receptor targeting and its applications in human diseases

The cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor is a multifunctional protein which binds at the cell surface to two distinct classes of ligands, the mannose 6-phosphate (M6P) bearing proteins and IGF-II. Its major function is to bind and transport M6P-enzymes to lysosomes, but it can also modulate the activity of a variety of extracellular M6P-glycoproteins (i.e., latent TGFbeta precursor, urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor, Granzyme B, growth factors, Herpes virus). The purpose of this review is to highlight the synthesis and potential use of high affinity M6P analogues able to target this receptor. Several M6P analogues with phosphonate, carboxylate or malonate groups display a higher affinity and a stronger stability in human serum than M6P itself. These derivatives could be used to favour the delivery of specific therapeutic compounds to lysosomes, notably in enzyme replacement therapies of lysosomal diseases or in neoplastic drug targeting. In addition, their potential applications in preventing clinical disorders, which are associated with the activities of other M6P-proteins involved in wound healing, cell growth or viral infection, will be discussed.

Structural insights into the mechanism of pH-dependent ligand binding and release by the cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor

The cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CD-MPR) is a key component of the lysosomal enzyme targeting system that binds newly synthesized mannose 6-phosphate (Man-6-P)-containing acid hydrolases and transports them to endosomal compartments. The interaction between the MPRs and its ligands is pH-dependent; the homodimeric CD-MPR binds lysosomal enzymes optimally in the pH environment of the trans Golgi network (pH approximately 6.5) and releases its cargo in acidic endosomal compartments (<pH 5.5) and at the cell surface. In addition, CD-MPR binding affinities are modulated by divalent cations. Our previous crystallographic studies have shown that at pH 6.5, the CD-MPR bound to Man-6-P adopts a significantly different quaternary conformation than the CD-MPR in a ligand-unbound state, a feature unique among known lectin structures. To determine whether different pH conditions elicit conformational changes in the receptor that alters ligand binding affinities, we have obtained additional crystal structures representative of the various environments encountered by the receptor including: 1) the CD-MPR bound at pH 6.5 (i.e. trans Golgi network) to a high affinity ligand (the terminally phosphorylated trisaccharide P-Man(alpha1,2)Man(alpha1,2)Man-O-(CH(2))(8)COOMe), 2) the CD-MPR at pH 4.8 in an unbound state (i.e. endosome), and 3) the CD-MPR at pH 7.4 (i.e. cell surface). A detailed comparison of the available CD-MPR structures reveals the positional invariability of specific binding pocket residues and implicates intermonomer contact(s), as well as the protonation state of Man-6-P, as regulators of pH-dependent carbohydrate binding.

Production of recombinant beta-hexosaminidase A, a potential enzyme for replacement therapy for Tay-Sachs and Sandhoff diseases, in the methylotrophic yeast Ogataea minuta

Human beta-hexosaminidase A (HexA) is a heterodimeric glycoprotein composed of alpha- and beta-subunits that degrades GM2 gangliosides in lysosomes. GM2 gangliosidosis is a lysosomal storage disease in which an inherited deficiency of HexA causes the accumulation of GM2 gangliosides. In order to prepare a large amount of HexA for a treatment based on enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), recombinant HexA was produced in the methylotrophic yeast Ogataea minuta instead of in mammalian cells, which are commonly used to produce recombinant enzymes for ERT. The problem of antigenicity due to differences in N-glycan structures between mammalian and yeast glycoproteins was potentially resolved by using alpha-1,6-mannosyltransferase-deficient (och1Delta) yeast as the host. Genes encoding the alpha- and beta-subunits of HexA were integrated into the yeast cell, and the heterodimer was expressed together with its isozymes HexS (alphaalpha) and HexB (betabeta). A total of 57 mg of beta-hexosaminidase isozymes, of which 13 mg was HexA (alphabeta), was produced per liter of medium. HexA was purified with immobilized metal affinity column for the His tag attached to the beta-subunit. The purified HexA was treated with alpha-mannosidase to expose mannose-6-phosphate (M6P) residues on the N-glycans. The specific activities of HexA and M6P-exposed HexA (M6PHexA) for the artificial substrate 4MU-GlcNAc were 1.2 +/- 0.1 and 1.7 +/- 0.3 mmol/h/mg, respectively. The sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis pattern suggested a C-terminal truncation in the beta-subunit of the recombinant protein. M6PHexA was incorporated dose dependently into GM2 gangliosidosis patient-derived fibroblasts via M6P receptors on the cell surface, and degradation of accumulated GM2 ganglioside was observed.

A Novel Binding Site for the Human Insulin-like Growth Factor-II (IGF-II)/Mannose 6-Phosphate Receptor on IGF-II

The mammalian insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-II/cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (IGF2R) binds IGF-II with high affinity. By targeting IGF-II to lysosomal degradation, it plays a role in the maintenance of correct IGF-II levels in the circulation and in target tissues. Loss of IGF2R function is associated with tumor progression; therefore, the IGF2R is often referred to as a tumor suppressor. The interaction between IGF2R and IGF-II involves domains 11 and 13 of the 15 extracellular domains of the receptor. Recently, a hydrophobic binding region was identified on domain 11 of the IGF2R. In contrast, relatively little is known about the residues of IGF-II that are involved in IGF2R binding and the determinants of IGF2R specificity for IGF-II over the structurally related IGF-I. Using a series of novel IGF-II analogues and surface plasmon resonance assays, this study revealed a novel binding surface on IGF-II critical for IGF2R binding. The hydrophobic residues Phe(19) and Leu(53) are critical for IGF2R binding, as are residues Thr(16) and Asp(52). Furthermore, Thr(16) was identified as playing a major role in determining why IGF-II, but not IGF-I, binds with high affinity to the IGF2R.

Kinetics of Insulin-like Growth Factor II (IGF-II) Interaction with Domain 11 of the Human IGF-II/Mannose 6-phosphate Receptor: Function of CD and AB Loop Solvent-exposed Residues

Ligands of the IGF-II/mannose 6-phosphate receptor (IGF2R) include IGF-II and mannose 6-phosphate modified proteins. Disruption of the negative regulatory effects of IGF2R on IGF-II-induced growth can lead to embryonic lethality and cancer promotion. Of the 15 IGF2R extracellular domains, domains 1-3 and 11 are known to have a conserved beta-barrel structure similar to that of avidin and the cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor, yet only domain 11 binds IGF-II with high specificity and affinity. In order to define the functional basis of this critical biological interaction, we performed alanine mutagenesis of structurally determined solvent-exposed loop residues of the IGF-II-binding site of human domain 11, expressed these mutant forms in Pichia pastoris, and determined binding kinetics with human IGF-II using isothermal calorimetry and surface plasmon resonance with transition state thermodynamics. Two hydrophobic residues in the CD loop (F1567 and I1572) were essential for binding, with a further non-hydrophobic residue (T1570) that slows the dissociation rate. Aside from alanine mutations of AB loop residues that decrease affinity by modifying dissociation rates (e.g. Y1542), a novel mutation (E1544A) of the AB loop enhanced affinity by threefold compared to wild-type. Conversion from an acidic to a basic residue at this site (E1544K) results in a sixfold enhancement of affinity via modification principally of the association rate, with enhanced salt-dependence, decreased entropic barrier and retained specificity. These data suggest that a functional hydrophobic binding site core is formed by I1572 and F1567 located in the CD loop, which initially anchors IGF-II. Within the AB loop, residues normally act to either stabilise or function as negative regulators of the interaction. These findings have implications for the molecular architecture and evolution of the domain 11 IGF-II-binding site, and the potential interactions with other domains of IGF2R.

Identification of the insulin-like growth factor II receptor as a novel receptor for binding and invasion by Listeria monocytogenes

The gram-positive bacterium Listeria monocytogenes causes a life-threatening disease known as listeriosis. The mechanism by which L. monocytogenes invades mammalian cells is not fully understood, but the processes involved may provide targets to prevent and treat listeriosis. Here, for the first time, we have identified the insulin-like growth factor II receptor (IGFIIR; also known as the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI)M6PR or CD222) as a novel receptor for binding and invasion of Listeria species. Random peptide phage display was employed to select a peptide sequence by panning with immobilized L. monocytogenes cells; this peptide sequence corresponds to a sequence within the mannose 6-phosphate binding site of the IGFIIR. All Listeria spp. specifically bound the labeled peptide but not a control peptide, which was demonstrated using fluorescence spectrophotometry and fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Further evidence for binding of the receptor by L. monocytogenes and L. innocua was provided by affinity purification of the bovine IGFIIR from fetal calf serum by use of magnetic beads coated with cell preparations of Listeria spp. as affinity matrices. Adherence to and invasion of mammalian cells by L. monocytogenes was significantly inhibited by both the synthetic peptide and mannose 6-phosphate but not by appropriate controls. These observations indicate a role for the IGFIIR in the adherence and invasion of L. monocytogenes of mammalian cells, perhaps in combination with known mechanisms. Ligation of IGFIIR by L. monocytogenes may be a novel mechanism that contributes to the regulation of infectivity, possibly in combination with other mechanisms.

Exploration of the Topological Requirements of ERAD Identifies Yos9p as a Lectin Sensor of Misfolded Glycoproteins in the ER Lumen

ER-associated degradation (ERAD) of glycoproteins depends on dual recognition of protein misfolding and remodeling of the substrate's N-linked glycans. After recognition, substrates are retrotranslocated to the cytosol for proteasomal degradation. To explore the directionality of this process, we fused a highly stable protein, DHFR, to the N or C terminus of the soluble ERAD substrate CPY* in yeast. Degradation of the C-terminal CPY*-DHFR fusion is markedly slowed and is accompanied by DHFR release in the ER lumen. Thus, folded lumenal domains can impede protein retrotranslocation. The ER lumenal protein Yos9p is required for both release of DHFR and degradation of multiple ERAD substrates. Yos9p forms a complex with substrates and has a sugar binding pocket that is essential for its ERAD function. Nonetheless, substrate recognition persists even when the sugar binding site is mutated or CPY* is unglycosylated. These and other considerations suggest that Yos9p plays a critical role in the bipartite recognition of terminally misfolded glycoproteins.

Yos9 Protein Is Essential for Degradation of Misfolded Glycoproteins and May Function as Lectin in ERAD

The Htm1/EDEM protein has been proposed to act as a "degradation lectin" for endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation (ERAD) of misfolded glycoproteins. In this study, we provide genetic and biochemical evidence that Yos9 protein in Saccharomyces cerevisiae is essential for efficient degradation of mutant glycoproteins. Yos9 is a member of the OS-9 protein family, which is conserved among eukaryotes and shows similarities with mannose-6-phosphate receptors (MPRs). We found that amino acids conserved among OS-9 family members and MPRs were essential for Yos9 protein function. Immunoprecipitation showed that Yos9 specifically associated with misfolded carboxypeptidase Y (CPY*), an ERAD substrate, but only when it carried Man8GlcNAc2 or Man5GlcNAc2 N-glycans. Our experiments further suggested that Yos9 acts in the same pathway as Htm1/EDEM. Yos9 protein is important for glycoprotein degradation and may act via its MRH domain as a degradation lectin-like protein in the glycoprotein degradation pathway.

Identification of residues essential for carbohydrate recognition and cation dependence of the 46-kDa mannose 6-phosphate receptor

The 46 kDa cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CD-MPR) plays an essential role in the biogenesis of lysosomes by diverting newly synthesized mannose 6-phosphate (Man-6-P)-containing lysosomal enzymes from the secretory pathway to acidified endosomes. Previous crystallographic studies of the CD-MPR have identified 11 amino acids within its carbohydrate binding pocket. These residues were evaluated quantitatively by assaying the binding affinity of mutant receptors containing a single amino acid substitution toward a lysosomal enzyme. The results show that substitution of Gln-66, Arg-111, Glu-133, or Tyr-143 results in a >800-fold decrease in affinity, demonstrating these four amino acids are essential for carbohydrate recognition by the CD-MPR. Solution binding and surface plasmon resonance analyses demonstrated that the presence of Mn2+ enhanced the affinity of the CD-MPR for a lysosomal enzyme by 2- to 4-fold and increased the stoichiometry of the interaction between a heterogeneous population of a lysosomal enzyme and the receptor by approximately 3-fold. In contrast, substitution of Asp-103 results in a protein that no longer exhibits enhanced binding affinities or altered stoichiometry in the presence of cations, and electron spin resonance demonstrated that the D103S mutant exhibits a 6-fold lower affinity for Mn2+ than the wild-type receptor (Kd = 3.7 6 1.4 mM versus 0.6 6 0.1 mM). Chemical cross-linking revealed that Mn2+ influences the stoichiometry of interaction between the CD-MPR and lysosomal enzymes by increasing the oligomeric state of the receptor from dimer to higher order oligomers. Taken together, these studies provide the molecular basis for high affinity carbohydrate recognition by the CD-MPR. Furthermore, Asp-103 has been identified as the key residue which mediates the effects of divalent cations on the binding properties of the CD-MPR.

Domain interactions of the mannose 6-phosphate/insulin-like growth factor II receptor

The mannose 6-phosphate/insulin-like growth factor II receptor (M6P/IGF2R) forms oligomeric structures important for optimal function in binding and internalization of Man-6-P-bearing extracellular ligands as well as lysosomal biogenesis and growth regulation. However, neither the mechanism of inter-receptor interaction nor the dimerization domain has yet been identified. We hypothesized that areas near the ligand binding domains of the receptor would contribute preferentially to oligomerization. Two panels of minireceptors were constructed that involved truncations of either the N- or C-terminal regions of the M6P/IGF2R encompassing deletions of various ligand binding domains. alpha-FLAG or alpha-Myc-based immunoprecipitation assays showed that all of the minireceptors tested were able to associate with a full-length, Myc-tagged M6P/IGF2R (WT-M). In the alpha-FLAG but not alpha-Myc immunoprecipitation assays, the degree of association of a series of C-terminally truncated minireceptors with WT-M showed a positive trend with length of the minireceptor. In contrast, length did not seem to affect the association of the N-terminally truncated minireceptors with WT-M, except that the 12th extracytoplasmic repeat appeared exceptionally important in dimerization in the alpha-FLAG assays. The presence of mutations in the ligand-binding sites of the minireceptors had no effect on their ability to associate with WT-M. Thus, association within the heterodimers was not dependent on the presence of functional ligand binding domains. Heterodimers formed between WT-M and the minireceptors demonstrated high affinity IGF-II and Man-6-P-ligand binding, suggesting a functional association. We conclude that there is no finite M6P/IGF2R dimerization domain, but rather that interactions between dimer partners occur all along the extracytoplasmic region of the receptor.

Identification of a low affinity mannose 6-phosphate-binding site in domain 5 of the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor

The 300-kDa cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR) and the 46-kDa cation-dependent MPR (CD-MPR) are type I integral membrane glycoproteins that play a critical role in the intracellular delivery of newly synthesized mannose 6-phosphate (Man-6-P)-containing acid hydrolases to the lysosome. The extracytoplasmic region of the CI-MPR contains 15 contiguous domains, and the two high affinity ( approximately 1 nm) Man-6-P-binding sites have been mapped to domains 1-3 and 9, with essential residues localized to domains 3 and 9. Domain 5 of the CI-MPR exhibits significant sequence homology to domains 3 and 9 as well as to the CD-MPR. A structure-based sequence alignment was performed that predicts that domain 5 contains the four conserved key residues (Gln, Arg, Glu, and Tyr) identified as essential for carbohydrate recognition by the CD-MPR and domains 3 and 9 of the CI-MPR, but lacks two cysteine residues predicted to form a disulfide bond within the binding pocket. To determine whether domain 5 harbors a carbohydrate-binding site, a construct that encodes domain 5 alone (Dom5His) was expressed in Pichia pastoris. Microarray analysis using 30 different oligosaccharides demonstrated that Dom5His bound specifically to a Man-6-P-containing oligosaccharide (pentamannosyl 6-phosphate). Frontal affinity chromatography showed that the affinity of Dom5His for Man-6-P was approximately 300-fold lower (K(i) = 5.3 mm) than that observed for domains 1-3 and 9. The interaction affinity for the lysosomal enzyme beta-glucuronidase was also much lower (K(d) = 54 microm) as determined by surface plasmon resonance analysis. Taken together, these results demonstrate that the CI-MPR contains a third Man-6-P recognition site that is located in domain 5 and that exhibits lower affinity than the carbohydrate-binding sites present in domains 1-3 and 9.

The N-terminal carbohydrate recognition site of the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor

The 300-kDa cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR) plays a critical role in the trafficking of newly synthesized mannose 6-phosphate-containing acid hydrolases to the lysosome. The receptor contains two high affinity carbohydrate recognition sites within its 15-domain extracytoplasmic region, with essential residues for carbohydrate recognition located in domain 3 and domain 9. Previous studies have shown that these two sites are distinct with respect to carbohydrate specificity. In addition, expression of truncated forms of the CI-MPR demonstrated that domain 9 can be expressed as an isolated domain, retaining high affinity (Kd approximately 1 nm) carbohydrate binding, whereas expression of domain 3 alone resulted in a protein capable of only low affinity binding (Kd approximately 1 microm) toward a lysosomal enzyme. In the current report the crystal structure of the N-terminal 432 residues of the CI-MPR, encompassing domains 1-3, was solved in the presence of bound mannose 6-phosphate. The structure reveals the unique architecture of this carbohydrate binding pocket and provides insight into the ability of this site to recognize a variety of mannose-containing sugars.

The insulin-like growth factor-II/mannose-6-phosphate receptor: structure, distribution and function in the central nervous system

The insulin-like growth factor-II/mannose-6-phosphate (IGF-II/M6P) receptor is a multifunctional single transmembrane glycoprotein which, along with the cation-dependent M6P (CD-M6P) receptor, mediates the trafficking of M6P-containing lysosomal enzymes from the trans-Golgi network (TGN) to lysosomes. Cell surface IGF-II/M6P receptors also function in the degradation of the non-glycosylated IGF-II polypeptide hormone, as well as in the capture and activation/degradation of extracellular M6P-bearing ligands. In recent years, the multifaceted role of the receptor has become apparent, as several lines of evidence have indicated that in addition to its role in lysosomal enzyme trafficking, clearance and/or activation of a variety of growth factors and endocytosis-mediated degradation of IGF-II, the IGF-II/M6P receptor may also mediate transmembrane signal transduction in response to IGF-II binding under certain conditions. However, very little is known about the physiological significance of the receptor in the function of the central nervous system (CNS). This review aims to delineate what is currently known about IGF-II/M6P receptor structure, its ligand binding properties and role in lysosomal enzyme transport. It also summarizes the recent data regarding the role of the receptor in the CNS, including its distribution, possible importance for normal and activity-dependent functioning as well as its implications in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Structure of uPAR, plasminogen, and sugar-binding sites of the 300 kDa mannose 6-phosphate receptor

The 300 kDa cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR) mediates the intracellular transport of newly synthesized lysosomal enzymes containing mannose 6-phosphate on their N-linked oligosaccharides. In addition to its role in lysosome biogenesis, the CI-MPR interacts with a number of different extracellular ligands at the cell surface, including latent transforming growth factor-beta, insulin-like growth factor-II, plasminogen, and urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR), to regulate cell growth and motility. We have solved the crystal structure of the N-terminal 432 residues of the CI-MPR at 1.8 A resolution, which encompass three out of the 15 repetitive domains of its extracytoplasmic region. The three domains, which exhibit similar topology to each other and to the 46 kDa cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor, assemble into a compact structure with the uPAR/plasminogen and the carbohydrate-binding sites situated on opposite faces of the molecule. Knowledge of the arrangement of these three domains has allowed us to propose a model of the entire extracytoplasmic region of the CI-MPR that provides a context with which to envision the numerous binding interactions carried out by this multi-faceted receptor.

Mannose 6-phosphate receptors: new twists in the tale

The two mannose 6-phosphate (M6P) receptors were identified because of their ability to bind M6P-containing soluble acid hydrolases in the Golgi and transport them to the endosomal-lysosomal system. During the past decade, we have started to understand the structural features of these receptors that allow them to do this job, and how the receptors themselves are sorted as they pass through various membrane-bound compartments. But trafficking of acid hydrolases is only part of the story. Evidence is emerging that one of the receptors can regulate cell growth and motility, and that it functions as a tumour suppressor.

Localization of the carbohydrate recognition sites of the insulin-like growth factor II/mannose 6-phosphate receptor to domains 3 and 9 of the extracytoplasmic region

The insulin-like growth factor II/mannose 6-phosphate receptor is a multifunctional receptor that binds to a diverse array of mannose 6-phosphate (Man-6-P) modified proteins as well as nonglycosylated ligands. Previous studies have mapped its two Man-6-P binding sites to a minimum of three domains, 1-3 and 7-9, within its 15-domain extracytoplasmic region. Since the primary amino acid determinants of carbohydrate recognition by the insulin-like growth factor II/mannose 6-phosphate receptor are predicted by sequence alignment to the cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor to reside within domains 3 and 9, constructs encoding either domain 3 alone or domain 9 alone were expressed in a Pichia pastoris expression system and tested for their ability to bind several carbohydrate ligands, including Man-6-P, pentamannosyl phosphate, the lysosomal enzyme, beta-glucuronidase, and the carbohydrate modifications (mannose 6-sulfate and Man-6-P methyl ester) found on Dictyostelium discoideum lysosomal enzymes. Although both constructs were functional in ligand binding and dissociation, these studies demonstrate the ability of domain 9 alone to fold into a high affinity (K(d) = 0.3 +/- 0.1 nm) carbohydrate-recognition domain whereas the domain 3 alone construct is capable of only low affinity binding (K(d) approximately 500 nm) toward beta-glucuronidase, suggesting that residues in adjacent domains (domains 1 and/or 2) are important, either directly or indirectly, for optimal binding by domain 3.