1
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Luo H, Marron Fernandez de Velasco E, Wickman K. Neuronal G protein-gated K + channels. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 323:C439-C460. [PMID: 35704701 PMCID: PMC9362898 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00102.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
G protein-gated inwardly rectifying K+ (GIRK/Kir3) channels exert a critical inhibitory influence on neurons. Neuronal GIRK channels mediate the G protein-dependent, direct/postsynaptic inhibitory effect of many neurotransmitters including γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin, dopamine, adenosine, somatostatin, and enkephalin. In addition to their complex regulation by G proteins, neuronal GIRK channel activity is sensitive to PIP2, phosphorylation, regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins, intracellular Na+ and Ca2+, and cholesterol. The application of genetic and viral manipulations in rodent models, together with recent progress in the development of GIRK channel modulators, has increased our understanding of the physiological and behavioral impact of neuronal GIRK channels. Work in rodent models has also revealed that neuronal GIRK channel activity is modified, transiently or persistently, by various stimuli including exposure drugs of abuse, changes in neuronal activity patterns, and aversive experience. A growing body of preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that dysregulation of GIRK channel activity contributes to neurological diseases and disorders. The primary goals of this review are to highlight fundamental principles of neuronal GIRK channel biology, mechanisms of GIRK channel regulation and plasticity, the nascent landscape of GIRK channel pharmacology, and the potential relevance of GIRK channels to the pathophysiology and treatment of neurological diseases and disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haichang Luo
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | | | - Kevin Wickman
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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2
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Ahn D, Chung KY. The Conformational Dynamics of Heterotrimeric G Proteins During GPCR-Mediated Activation. Subcell Biochem 2022; 99:271-284. [PMID: 36151379 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-00793-4_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Heterotrimeric G proteins (G proteins) are essential cellular signaling proteins that mediate extracellular signals to achieve various cellular functions. G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the major guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) that induce G proteins to release guanosine diphosphate and rapidly bind to guanosine triphosphate, resulting in G protein activation. G proteins undergo dynamic conformational changes during the activation/inactivation process, and the precise structural mechanism of GPCR-mediated G protein activation is of great interest. Over the last decade, a number of GPCR-G protein complex structures have been identified, yet an understanding of the mechanisms underlying allosteric conformational changes during receptor-mediated G protein activation and GPCR-G protein coupling selectivity is only now emerging. This review discusses recent studies on the dynamic conformational changes of G proteins and provides insight into the structural mechanism of GPCR-mediated G protein activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghoon Ahn
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ka Young Chung
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Function-Related Dynamics in Multi-Spanning Helical Membrane Proteins Revealed by Solution NMR. MEMBRANES 2021; 11:membranes11080604. [PMID: 34436367 PMCID: PMC8398610 DOI: 10.3390/membranes11080604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
A primary biological function of multi-spanning membrane proteins is to transfer information and/or materials through a membrane by changing their conformations. Therefore, particular dynamics of the membrane proteins are tightly associated with their function. The semi-atomic resolution dynamics information revealed by NMR is able to discriminate function-related dynamics from random fluctuations. This review will discuss several studies in which quantitative dynamics information by solution NMR has contributed to revealing the structural basis of the function of multi-spanning membrane proteins, such as ion channels, GPCRs, and transporters.
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4
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Xu Y, Cantwell L, Molosh AI, Plant LD, Gazgalis D, Fitz SD, Dustrude ET, Yang Y, Kawano T, Garai S, Noujaim SF, Shekhar A, Logothetis DE, Thakur GA. The small molecule GAT1508 activates brain-specific GIRK1/2 channel heteromers and facilitates conditioned fear extinction in rodents. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:3614-3634. [PMID: 31953327 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.011527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
G-protein-gated inwardly-rectifying K+ (GIRK) channels are targets of Gi/o-protein-signaling systems that inhibit cell excitability. GIRK channels exist as homotetramers (GIRK2 and GIRK4) or heterotetramers with nonfunctional homomeric subunits (GIRK1 and GIRK3). Although they have been implicated in multiple conditions, the lack of selective GIRK drugs that discriminate among the different GIRK channel subtypes has hampered investigations into their precise physiological relevance and therapeutic potential. Here, we report on a highly-specific, potent, and efficacious activator of brain GIRK1/2 channels. Using a chemical screen and electrophysiological assays, we found that this activator, the bromothiophene-substituted small molecule GAT1508, is specific for brain-expressed GIRK1/2 channels rather than for cardiac GIRK1/4 channels. Computational models predicted a GAT1508-binding site validated by experimental mutagenesis experiments, providing insights into how urea-based compounds engage distant GIRK1 residues required for channel activation. Furthermore, we provide computational and experimental evidence that GAT1508 is an allosteric modulator of channel-phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate interactions. Through brain-slice electrophysiology, we show that subthreshold GAT1508 concentrations directly stimulate GIRK currents in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) and potentiate baclofen-induced currents. Of note, GAT1508 effectively extinguished conditioned fear in rodents and lacked cardiac and behavioral side effects, suggesting its potential for use in pharmacotherapy for post-traumatic stress disorder. In summary, our findings indicate that the small molecule GAT1508 has high specificity for brain GIRK1/2 channel subunits, directly or allosterically activates GIRK1/2 channels in the BLA, and facilitates fear extinction in a rodent model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Lucas Cantwell
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Andrei I Molosh
- Department of Psychiatry, Paul and Carole Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202
| | - Leigh D Plant
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Dimitris Gazgalis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Stephanie D Fitz
- Department of Psychiatry, Paul and Carole Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202
| | - Erik T Dustrude
- Department of Psychiatry, Paul and Carole Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202
| | - Yuchen Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Takeharu Kawano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Sumanta Garai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Sami F Noujaim
- Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33612
| | - Anantha Shekhar
- Department of Psychiatry, Paul and Carole Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202.
| | - Diomedes E Logothetis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115.
| | - Ganesh A Thakur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115.
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5
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Kano H, Toyama Y, Imai S, Iwahashi Y, Mase Y, Yokogawa M, Osawa M, Shimada I. Structural mechanism underlying G protein family-specific regulation of G protein-gated inwardly rectifying potassium channel. Nat Commun 2019; 10:2008. [PMID: 31043612 PMCID: PMC6494913 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-10038-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
G protein-gated inwardly rectifying potassium channel (GIRK) plays a key role in regulating neurotransmission. GIRK is opened by the direct binding of the G protein βγ subunit (Gβγ), which is released from the heterotrimeric G protein (Gαβγ) upon the activation of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). GIRK contributes to precise cellular responses by specifically and efficiently responding to the Gi/o-coupled GPCRs. However, the detailed mechanisms underlying this family-specific and efficient activation are largely unknown. Here, we investigate the structural mechanism underlying the Gi/o family-specific activation of GIRK, by combining cell-based BRET experiments and NMR analyses in a reconstituted membrane environment. We show that the interaction formed by the αA helix of Gαi/o mediates the formation of the Gαi/oβγ-GIRK complex, which is responsible for the family-specific activation of GIRK. We also present a model structure of the Gαi/oβγ-GIRK complex, which provides the molecular basis underlying the specific and efficient regulation of GIRK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanaho Kano
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Yuki Toyama
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Imai
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Yuta Iwahashi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Yoko Mase
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Mariko Yokogawa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Keio University, Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8512, Japan
| | - Masanori Osawa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Keio University, Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8512, Japan
| | - Ichio Shimada
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
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6
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Coyote-Maestas W, He Y, Myers CL, Schmidt D. Domain insertion permissibility-guided engineering of allostery in ion channels. Nat Commun 2019; 10:290. [PMID: 30655517 PMCID: PMC6336875 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-08171-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Allostery is a fundamental principle of protein regulation that remains hard to engineer, particularly in membrane proteins such as ion channels. Here we use human Inward Rectifier K+ Channel Kir2.1 to map site-specific permissibility to the insertion of domains with different biophysical properties. We find that permissibility is best explained by dynamic protein properties, such as conformational flexibility. Several regions in Kir2.1 that are equivalent to those regulated in homologs, such as G-protein-gated inward rectifier K+ channels (GIRK), have differential permissibility; that is, for these sites permissibility depends on the structural properties of the inserted domain. Our data and the well-established link between protein dynamics and allostery led us to propose that differential permissibility is a metric of latent allosteric capacity in Kir2.1. In support of this notion, inserting light-switchable domains into sites with predicted latent allosteric capacity renders Kir2.1 activity sensitive to light. Allostery is a fundamental principle of protein regulation that remains challenging to engineer. Here authors screen human Inward Rectifier K + Channel Kir2.1 for permissibility to domain insertions and propose that differential permissibility is a metric of latent allosteric capacity in Kir2.1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willow Coyote-Maestas
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology & Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, 55455, MN, USA
| | - Yungui He
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology & Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, 55455, MN, USA
| | - Chad L Myers
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, 55455, MN, USA
| | - Daniel Schmidt
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology & Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, 55455, MN, USA.
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7
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Tateyama M, Kubo Y. Gi/o-coupled muscarinic receptors co-localize with GIRK channel for efficient channel activation. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0204447. [PMID: 30240440 PMCID: PMC6150519 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0204447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
G protein-gated inwardly rectifying K+ (GIRK) channel regulates cellular excitability upon activation of Gi/o-coupled receptors. In Gi/o-coupled muscarinic M2R, the intracellular third loop (i3) is known as a key domain for Gi/o coupling, because replacement of i3 of Gq-coupled muscarinic M1R with that of M2R enables the chimeric receptor (MC9) to activate the GIRK channel. In the present study, we showed that MC9, but not M1R, co-localizes with the GIRK channel and Gαi1 by Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) analysis. When M1R was forced to stay adjacent to the channel through ligation with short linkers, M1R activated the GIRK channel. FRET analysis further suggested that the efficacy of channel activation is correlated with the linker length between M1R and the GIRK channel. The results show that co-localization is an important factor for activating the GIRK channel. In contrast, for MC9 and M2R, the GIRK channel was activated even when they were connected by long linkers, suggesting the formation of a molecular complex even in the absence of a linker. We also observed that replacement of 13 amino acid residues at the N-terminal end of i3 of MC9 with those of M1R impaired the co-localization with the GIRK channel as well as channel activation. These results show that localization of the receptor near the GIRK channel is a key factor in efficiently activating the channel and that the N-terminal end of i3 of M2R plays an important role in co-localization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michihiro Tateyama
- Division of Biophysics and Neurobiology, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
- Department of Physiological Sciences, School of Life Science, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Hayama, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Yoshihiro Kubo
- Division of Biophysics and Neurobiology, Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
- Department of Physiological Sciences, School of Life Science, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Hayama, Japan
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8
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Structural basis for the ethanol action on G-protein-activated inwardly rectifying potassium channel 1 revealed by NMR spectroscopy. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:3858-3863. [PMID: 29581303 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1722257115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Ethanol consumption leads to a wide range of pharmacological effects by acting on the signaling proteins in the human nervous system, such as ion channels. Despite its familiarity and biological importance, very little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying the ethanol action, due to extremely weak binding affinity and the dynamic nature of the ethanol interaction. In this research, we focused on the primary in vivo target of ethanol, G-protein-activated inwardly rectifying potassium channel (GIRK), which is responsible for the ethanol-induced analgesia. By utilizing solution NMR spectroscopy, we characterized the changes in the structure and dynamics of GIRK induced by ethanol binding. We demonstrated here that ethanol binds to GIRK with an apparent dissociation constant of 1.0 M and that the actual physiological binding site of ethanol is located on the cavity formed between the neighboring cytoplasmic regions of the GIRK tetramer. From the methyl-based NMR relaxation analyses, we revealed that ethanol activates GIRK by shifting the conformational equilibrium processes, which are responsible for the gating of GIRK, to stabilize an open conformation of the cytoplasmic ion gate. We suggest that the dynamic molecular mechanism of the ethanol-induced activation of GIRK represents a general model of the ethanol action on signaling proteins in the human nervous system.
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9
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferenc Zsila
- Biomolecular Self-Assembly Group; Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry; Research Centre for Natural Sciences; Hungarian Academy of Sciences; 1117 Budapest Hungary
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10
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Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Approaches for Characterizing Protein-Protein Interactions. Methods Mol Biol 2017. [PMID: 29058188 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7362-0_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
The gating of potassium ion (K+) channels is regulated by various kinds of protein-protein interactions (PPIs). Structural investigations of these PPIs provide useful information not only for understanding the gating mechanisms of K+ channels, but also for developing the pharmaceutical compounds targeting K+ channels. Here, we describe a nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic method, termed the cross saturation (CS) method, to accurately determine the binding surfaces of protein complexes, and its application to the investigation of the interaction between a G protein-coupled inwardly rectifying K+ channel and a G protein α subunit.
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11
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Toyama Y, Kano H, Mase Y, Yokogawa M, Osawa M, Shimada I. Dynamic regulation of GDP binding to G proteins revealed by magnetic field-dependent NMR relaxation analyses. Nat Commun 2017; 8:14523. [PMID: 28223697 PMCID: PMC5322562 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms14523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterotrimeric guanine-nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) serve as molecular switches in signalling pathways, by coupling the activation of cell surface receptors to intracellular responses. Mutations in the G protein α-subunit (Gα) that accelerate guanosine diphosphate (GDP) dissociation cause hyperactivation of the downstream effector proteins, leading to oncogenesis. However, the structural mechanism of the accelerated GDP dissociation has remained unclear. Here, we use magnetic field-dependent nuclear magnetic resonance relaxation analyses to investigate the structural and dynamic properties of GDP bound Gα on a microsecond timescale. We show that Gα rapidly exchanges between a ground-state conformation, which tightly binds to GDP and an excited conformation with reduced GDP affinity. The oncogenic D150N mutation accelerates GDP dissociation by shifting the equilibrium towards the excited conformation. Heterotrimeric guanine-nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) act as molecular switches. Here the authors use NMR relaxation analyses, which reveal the dynamics of G protein alpha subunit binding to GDP on a microsecond timescale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Toyama
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.,Japan Biological Informatics Consortium (JBiC), Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0064, Japan
| | - Hanaho Kano
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Yoko Mase
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Mariko Yokogawa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Masanori Osawa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Ichio Shimada
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
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12
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Lee SJ, Ren F, Zangerl-Plessl EM, Heyman S, Stary-Weinzinger A, Yuan P, Nichols CG. Structural basis of control of inward rectifier Kir2 channel gating by bulk anionic phospholipids. J Gen Physiol 2016; 148:227-37. [PMID: 27527100 PMCID: PMC5004336 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201611616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2016] [Accepted: 07/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Phospholipids are required to bind to two distinct sites on the inward rectifier potassium channel for maximal efficacy. Lee et al. show that a membrane-associating tryptophan residue in the second site can mimic the effect of phospholipid binding and cause a conformational change to reveal the primary binding site. Inward rectifier potassium (Kir) channel activity is controlled by plasma membrane lipids. Phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) binding to a primary site is required for opening of classic inward rectifier Kir2.1 and Kir2.2 channels, but interaction of bulk anionic phospholipid (PL−) with a distinct second site is required for high PIP2 sensitivity. Here we show that introduction of a lipid-partitioning tryptophan at the second site (K62W) generates high PIP2 sensitivity, even in the absence of PL−. Furthermore, high-resolution x-ray crystal structures of Kir2.2[K62W], with or without added PIP2 (2.8- and 2.0-Å resolution, respectively), reveal tight tethering of the C-terminal domain (CTD) to the transmembrane domain (TMD) in each condition. Our results suggest a refined model for phospholipid gating in which PL− binding at the second site pulls the CTD toward the membrane, inducing the formation of the high-affinity primary PIP2 site and explaining the positive allostery between PL− binding and PIP2 sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Joo Lee
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110 Center for the Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110
| | - Feifei Ren
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110 Center for the Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110
| | | | - Sarah Heyman
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110 Center for the Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110
| | - Anna Stary-Weinzinger
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Peng Yuan
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110 Center for the Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110
| | - Colin G Nichols
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110 Center for the Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110
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13
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Yakubovich D, Berlin S, Kahanovitch U, Rubinstein M, Farhy-Tselnicker I, Styr B, Keren-Raifman T, Dessauer CW, Dascal N. A Quantitative Model of the GIRK1/2 Channel Reveals That Its Basal and Evoked Activities Are Controlled by Unequal Stoichiometry of Gα and Gβγ. PLoS Comput Biol 2015; 11:e1004598. [PMID: 26544551 PMCID: PMC4636287 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1004598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
G protein-gated K+ channels (GIRK; Kir3), activated by Gβγ subunits derived from Gi/o proteins, regulate heartbeat and neuronal excitability and plasticity. Both neurotransmitter-evoked (Ievoked) and neurotransmitter-independent basal (Ibasal) GIRK activities are physiologically important, but mechanisms of Ibasal and its relation to Ievoked are unclear. We have previously shown for heterologously expressed neuronal GIRK1/2, and now show for native GIRK in hippocampal neurons, that Ibasal and Ievoked are interrelated: the extent of activation by neurotransmitter (activation index, Ra) is inversely related to Ibasal. To unveil the underlying mechanisms, we have developed a quantitative model of GIRK1/2 function. We characterized single-channel and macroscopic GIRK1/2 currents, and surface densities of GIRK1/2 and Gβγ expressed in Xenopus oocytes. Based on experimental results, we constructed a mathematical model of GIRK1/2 activity under steady-state conditions before and after activation by neurotransmitter. Our model accurately recapitulates Ibasal and Ievoked in Xenopus oocytes, HEK293 cells and hippocampal neurons; correctly predicts the dose-dependent activation of GIRK1/2 by coexpressed Gβγ and fully accounts for the inverse Ibasal-Ra correlation. Modeling indicates that, under all conditions and at different channel expression levels, between 3 and 4 Gβγ dimers are available for each GIRK1/2 channel. In contrast, available Gαi/o decreases from ~2 to less than one Gα per channel as GIRK1/2's density increases. The persistent Gβγ/channel (but not Gα/channel) ratio support a strong association of GIRK1/2 with Gβγ, consistent with recruitment to the cell surface of Gβγ, but not Gα, by GIRK1/2. Our analysis suggests a maximal stoichiometry of 4 Gβγ but only 2 Gαi/o per one GIRK1/2 channel. The unique, unequal association of GIRK1/2 with G protein subunits, and the cooperative nature of GIRK gating by Gβγ, underlie the complex pattern of basal and agonist-evoked activities and allow GIRK1/2 to act as a sensitive bidirectional detector of both Gβγ and Gα. Many neurotransmitters and hormones inhibit the electric activity of excitable cells (such as cardiac cells and neurons) by activating a K+ channel, GIRK (G protein-gated Inwardly Rectifying K+ channel). GIRK channels also possess constitutive “basal” activity which contributes to regulation of neuronal and cardiac excitability and certain disorders, but the mechanism of this activity and its interrelation with the neurotransmitter-evoked activity are poorly understood. In this work we show that key features of basal and neurotransmitter-evoked activities are similar in cultured hippocampal neurons and in two model systems (mammalian HEK293 cells and Xenopus oocytes). Using experimental data of the neuronal GIRK1/2 channel function upon changes in GIRK and G protein concentrations, we constructed a mathematical model that quantitatively accounts for basal and evoked activity, and for the inverse correlation between the two. Our analysis suggests a novel and unexpected mechanism of interaction of GIRK1/2 with the G protein subunits, where the tetrameric GIRK channel can assemble with 4 molecules of the Gβγ subunits but only 2 molecules of Gα. GIRK is a prototypical effector of Gβγ, and the unequal stoichiometry of interaction with G protein subunits may have general implications for G protein signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Yakubovich
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Shai Berlin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Uri Kahanovitch
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Moran Rubinstein
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Isabella Farhy-Tselnicker
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Boaz Styr
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Tal Keren-Raifman
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Carmen W. Dessauer
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Nathan Dascal
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- * E-mail:
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Glaaser IW, Slesinger PA. Structural Insights into GIRK Channel Function. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2015; 123:117-60. [PMID: 26422984 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2015.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
G protein-gated inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK; Kir3) channels, which are members of the large family of inwardly rectifying potassium channels (Kir1-Kir7), regulate excitability in the heart and brain. GIRK channels are activated following stimulation of G protein-coupled receptors that couple to the G(i/o) (pertussis toxin-sensitive) G proteins. GIRK channels, like all other Kir channels, possess an extrinsic mechanism of inward rectification involving intracellular Mg(2+) and polyamines that occlude the conduction pathway at membrane potentials positive to E(K). In the past 17 years, more than 20 high-resolution atomic structures containing GIRK channel cytoplasmic domains and transmembrane domains have been solved. These structures have provided valuable insights into the structural determinants of many of the properties common to all inward rectifiers, such as permeation and rectification, as well as revealing the structural bases for GIRK channel gating. In this chapter, we describe advances in our understanding of GIRK channel function based on recent high-resolution atomic structures of inwardly rectifying K(+) channels discussed in the context of classical structure-function experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian W Glaaser
- Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Paul A Slesinger
- Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA.
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15
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Dascal N, Kahanovitch U. The Roles of Gβγ and Gα in Gating and Regulation of GIRK Channels. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2015; 123:27-85. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2015.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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16
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de Velasco EMF, McCall N, Wickman K. GIRK Channel Plasticity and Implications for Drug Addiction. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2015; 123:201-38. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2015.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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17
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Kahanovitch U, Tsemakhovich V, Berlin S, Rubinstein M, Styr B, Castel R, Peleg S, Tabak G, Dessauer CW, Ivanina T, Dascal N. Recruitment of Gβγ controls the basal activity of G-protein coupled inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels: crucial role of distal C terminus of GIRK1. J Physiol 2014; 592:5373-90. [PMID: 25384780 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2014.283218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The G-protein coupled inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK, or Kir3) channels are important mediators of inhibitory neurotransmission via activation of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs). GIRK channels are tetramers comprising combinations of subunits (GIRK1-4), activated by direct binding of the Gβγ subunit of Gi/o proteins. Heterologously expressed GIRK1/2 exhibit high, Gβγ-dependent basal currents (Ibasal) and a modest activation by GPCR or coexpressed Gβγ. Inversely, the GIRK2 homotetramers exhibit low Ibasal and strong activation by Gβγ. The high Ibasal of GIRK1 seems to be associated with its unique distal C terminus (G1-dCT), which is not present in the other subunits. We investigated the role of G1-dCT using electrophysiological and fluorescence assays in Xenopus laevis oocytes and protein interaction assays. We show that expression of GIRK1/2 increases the plasma membrane level of coexpressed Gβγ (a phenomenon we term 'Gβγ recruitment') but not of coexpressed Gαi3. All GIRK1-containing channels, but not GIRK2 homomers, recruited Gβγ to the plasma membrane. In biochemical assays, truncation of G1-dCT reduces the binding between the cytosolic parts of GIRK1 and Gβγ, but not Gαi3. Nevertheless, the truncation of G1-dCT does not impair activation by Gβγ. In fluorescently labelled homotetrameric GIRK1 channels and in the heterotetrameric GIRK1/2 channel, the truncation of G1-dCT abolishes Gβγ recruitment and decreases Ibasal. Thus, we conclude that G1-dCT carries an essential role in Gβγ recruitment by GIRK1 and, consequently, in determining its high basal activity. Our results indicate that G1-dCT is a crucial part of a Gβγ anchoring site of GIRK1-containing channels, spatially and functionally distinct from the site of channel activation by Gβγ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uri Kahanovitch
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Vladimir Tsemakhovich
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Shai Berlin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Moran Rubinstein
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Boaz Styr
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Ruth Castel
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Sagit Peleg
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Galit Tabak
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Carmen W Dessauer
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Tatiana Ivanina
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Nathan Dascal
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
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18
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Wang W, Whorton MR, MacKinnon R. Quantitative analysis of mammalian GIRK2 channel regulation by G proteins, the signaling lipid PIP2 and Na+ in a reconstituted system. eLife 2014; 3:e03671. [PMID: 25049222 PMCID: PMC4135351 DOI: 10.7554/elife.03671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
GIRK channels control spike frequency in atrial pacemaker cells and inhibitory potentials in neurons. By directly responding to G proteins, PIP2 and Na+, GIRK is under the control of multiple signaling pathways. In this study, the mammalian GIRK2 channel has been purified and reconstituted in planar lipid membranes and effects of Gα, Gβγ, PIP2 and Na+ analyzed. Gβγ and PIP2 must be present simultaneously to activate GIRK2. Na+ is not essential but modulates the effect of Gβγ and PIP2 over physiological concentrations. Gαi1(GTPγS) has no effect, whereas Gαi1(GDP) closes the channel through removal of Gβγ. In the presence of Gβγ, GIRK2 opens as a function of PIP2 mole fraction with Hill coefficient 2.5 and an affinity that poises GIRK2 to respond to natural variations of PIP2 concentration. The dual requirement for Gβγ and PIP2 can help to explain why GIRK2 is activated by Gi/o, but not Gq coupled GPCRs. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.03671.001 Though every cell in the body is surrounded by a membrane, there are a number of ways that molecules can pass through this membrane to either enter or leave the cell. Proteins from the GIRK family form channels in the membranes of mammalian cells, and when open these channels allow potassium ions to flow through the membrane to control the membrane's voltage. GIRK channels are found in the heart and in the central nervous system, and can be activated in a variety of ways. Sodium ions and molecules called ‘signaling lipids’ can regulate the activation of GIRK channels. These channels can also be caused to open by G proteins: proteins that are found inside cells and that help to transmit signals from the outside of a cell to the inside. Three G proteins—called Gα, Gβ, and Gγ—work together in a complex that functions a bit like a switch. When switched on, the Gα subunit is separated from the other two subunits (called Gβγ); and both parts can then activate different signaling pathways inside the cell. The Gβγ subunits and a signaling lipid have been known to regulate the opening of GIRK channels for a number of years, but these events have only been studied in the context of living cells. The specific role of each molecule, and whether the Gα subunit can also regulate the GIRK channels, remains unknown. Now Wang et al. have produced one type of mouse GIRK channel, called GIRK2, in yeast cells, purified this protein, and added it into an artificial membrane. This ‘reconstituted system’ allowed the regulation of a GIRK channel to be investigated under more controlled conditions than in previous experiments. Wang et al. found that the Gβγ subunits and the signaling lipid both need to be present to activate the GIRK2 channel. Sodium ions were not essential, but promoted further opening when Gβγ and the signaling lipid were already present. When locked in its ‘on’ state, the Gα subunit had no effect on GIRK2, but adding Gα locked in the ‘off’ state closed these channels by removing the Gβγ proteins. The findings of Wang et al. suggest that it should be possible to use a similar reconstituted system to investigate what allows different G proteins to activate specific signaling pathways. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.03671.002
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology and Biophysics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States
| | - Matthew R Whorton
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology and Biophysics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States
| | - Roderick MacKinnon
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology and Biophysics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States
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Nagi K, Pineyro G. Kir3 channel signaling complexes: focus on opioid receptor signaling. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:186. [PMID: 25071446 PMCID: PMC4085882 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2014] [Accepted: 06/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioids are among the most effective drugs to treat severe pain. They produce their analgesic actions by specifically activating opioid receptors located along the pain perception pathway where they inhibit the flow of nociceptive information. This inhibition is partly accomplished by activation of hyperpolarizing G protein-coupled inwardly-rectifying potassium (GIRK or Kir3) channels. Kir3 channels control cellular excitability in the central nervous system and in the heart and, because of their ubiquitous distribution, they mediate the effects of a large range of hormones and neurotransmitters which, upon activation of corresponding G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) lead to channel opening. Here we analyze GPCR signaling via these effectors in reference to precoupling and collision models. Existing knowledge on signaling bias is discussed in relation to these models as a means of developing strategies to produce novel opioid analgesics with an improved side effects profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim Nagi
- Département de Pharmacologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal Montreal, QC, Canada ; Centre de Recherche du CHU Sainte-Justine Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Graciela Pineyro
- Département de Pharmacologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal Montreal, QC, Canada ; Centre de Recherche du CHU Sainte-Justine Montréal, QC, Canada ; Département de Psychiatrie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal Montréal, QC, Canada
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20
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Göbl C, Madl T, Simon B, Sattler M. NMR approaches for structural analysis of multidomain proteins and complexes in solution. PROGRESS IN NUCLEAR MAGNETIC RESONANCE SPECTROSCOPY 2014; 80:26-63. [PMID: 24924266 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnmrs.2014.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2014] [Accepted: 05/14/2014] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
NMR spectroscopy is a key method for studying the structure and dynamics of (large) multidomain proteins and complexes in solution. It plays a unique role in integrated structural biology approaches as especially information about conformational dynamics can be readily obtained at residue resolution. Here, we review NMR techniques for such studies focusing on state-of-the-art tools and practical aspects. An efficient approach for determining the quaternary structure of multidomain complexes starts from the structures of individual domains or subunits. The arrangement of the domains/subunits within the complex is then defined based on NMR measurements that provide information about the domain interfaces combined with (long-range) distance and orientational restraints. Aspects discussed include sample preparation, specific isotope labeling and spin labeling; determination of binding interfaces and domain/subunit arrangements from chemical shift perturbations (CSP), nuclear Overhauser effects (NOEs), isotope editing/filtering, cross-saturation, and differential line broadening; and based on paramagnetic relaxation enhancements (PRE) using covalent and soluble spin labels. Finally, the utility of complementary methods such as small-angle X-ray or neutron scattering (SAXS, SANS), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) or fluorescence spectroscopy techniques is discussed. The applications of NMR techniques are illustrated with studies of challenging (high molecular weight) protein complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Göbl
- Biomolecular NMR and Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich at Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Garching, Germany
| | - Tobias Madl
- Biomolecular NMR and Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich at Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Garching, Germany; Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany; Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
| | - Bernd Simon
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Structural and Computational Biology Unit, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Sattler
- Biomolecular NMR and Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich at Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Garching, Germany; Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany.
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Abstract
Structural analyses of protein-protein interactions are required to reveal their functional mechanisms, and accurate protein-protein complex models, based on experimental results, are the starting points for drug development. In addition, structural information about proteins under physiologically relevant conditions is crucially important for understanding biological events. However, for proteins such as those embedded in lipid bilayers and transiently complexed with their effectors under physiological conditions, structural analyses by conventional methods are generally difficult, due to their large molecular weights and inhomogeneity. We have developed the cross-saturation (CS) method, which is an nuclear magnetic resonance measurement technique for the precise identification of the interfaces of protein-protein complexes. In addition, we have developed an extended version of the CS method, termed transferred cross-saturation (TCS), which enables the identification of the residues of protein ligands in close proximity to huge (>150 kDa) and heterogeneous complexes under fast exchange conditions (>0.1 s(-1)). Here, we discuss the outline, basic theory, and practical considerations of the CS and TCS methods. In addition, we will review the recent progress in the construction of models of protein-protein complexes, based on CS and TCS experiments, and applications of TCS to in situ analyses of biologically and medically important proteins in physiologically relevant states.
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22
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Bodhinathan K, Slesinger PA. Alcohol modulation of G-protein-gated inwardly rectifying potassium channels: from binding to therapeutics. Front Physiol 2014; 5:76. [PMID: 24611054 PMCID: PMC3933770 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol (ethanol)-induced behaviors may arise from direct interaction of alcohol with discrete protein cavities within brain proteins. Recent structural and biochemical studies have provided new insights into the mechanism of alcohol-dependent activation of G protein-gated inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels, which regulate neuronal responses in the brain reward circuit. GIRK channels contain an alcohol binding pocket formed at the interface of two adjacent channel subunits. Here, we discuss the physiochemical properties of the alcohol pocket and the roles of G protein βγ subunits and membrane phospholipid PIP2 in regulating the alcohol response of GIRK channels. Some of the features of alcohol modulation of GIRK channels may be common to other alcohol-sensitive brain proteins. We discuss the possibility of alcohol-selective therapeutics that block alcohol access to the pocket. Understanding alcohol recognition and modulation of brain proteins is essential for development of therapeutics for alcohol abuse and addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karthik Bodhinathan
- Structural Biology and Peptide Biology Laboratories, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Paul A Slesinger
- Structural Biology and Peptide Biology Laboratories, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies La Jolla, CA, USA ; Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai New York, NY, USA
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23
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Kienitz MC, Mintert-Jancke E, Hertel F, Pott L. Differential effects of genetically-encoded Gβγ scavengers on receptor-activated and basal Kir3.1/Kir3.4 channel current in rat atrial myocytes. Cell Signal 2014; 26:1182-92. [PMID: 24576551 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2014.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2013] [Revised: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 02/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Opening of G-protein-activated inward-rectifying K(+) (GIRK, Kir3) channels is regulated by interaction with βγ-subunits of Pertussis-toxin-sensitive G proteins upon activation of appropriate GPCRs. In atrial and neuronal cells agonist-independent activity (I(basal)) contributes to the background K(+) conductance, important for stabilizing resting potential. Data obtained from the Kir3 signaling pathway reconstituted in Xenopus oocytes suggest that I(basal) requires free G(βγ). In cells with intrinsic expression of Kir3 channels this issue has been scarcely addressed experimentally. Two G(βγ)-binding proteins (myristoylated phosducin - mPhos - and G(αi1)) were expressed in atrial myocytes using adenoviral gene transfer, to interrupt G(βγ)-signaling. Agonist-induced and basal currents were recorded using whole cell voltage-clamp. Expression of mPhos and G(αi1) reduced activation of Kir3 current via muscarinic M(2) receptors (IK(ACh)). Inhibition of IK(ACh) by mPhos consisted of an irreversible component and an agonist-dependent reversible component. Reduction in density of IK(ACh) by overexpressed Gαi1, in contrast to mPhos, was paralleled by substantial slowing of activation, suggesting a reduction in density of functional M2 receptors, rather than G(βγ)-scavenging as underlying mechanism. In line with this notion, current density and activation kinetics were rescued by fusing the αi1-subunit to an Adenosine A(1) receptor. Neither mPhos nor G(αi1) had a significant effect on I(basal), defined by the inhibitory peptide tertiapin-Q. These data demonstrate that basal Kir3 current in a native environment is unrelated to G-protein signaling or agonist-independent free G(βγ). Moreover, our results illustrate the importance of physiological expression levels of the signaling components in shaping key parameters of the response to an agonist.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fabian Hertel
- Institute of Physiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, D-44780 Bochum, Germany
| | - Lutz Pott
- Institute of Physiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, D-44780 Bochum, Germany
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24
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Jia L, Chisari M, Maktabi MH, Sobieski C, Zhou H, Konopko AM, Martin BR, Mennerick SJ, Blumer KJ. A mechanism regulating G protein-coupled receptor signaling that requires cycles of protein palmitoylation and depalmitoylation. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:6249-57. [PMID: 24385443 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.531475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Reversible attachment and removal of palmitate or other long-chain fatty acids on proteins has been hypothesized, like phosphorylation, to control diverse biological processes. Indeed, palmitate turnover regulates Ras trafficking and signaling. Beyond this example, however, the functions of palmitate turnover on specific proteins remain poorly understood. Here, we show that a mechanism regulating G protein-coupled receptor signaling in neuronal cells requires palmitate turnover. We used hexadecyl fluorophosphonate or palmostatin B to inhibit enzymes in the serine hydrolase family that depalmitoylate proteins, and we studied R7 regulator of G protein signaling (RGS)-binding protein (R7BP), a palmitoylated allosteric modulator of R7 RGS proteins that accelerate deactivation of Gi/o class G proteins. Depalmitoylation inhibition caused R7BP to redistribute from the plasma membrane to endomembrane compartments, dissociated R7BP-bound R7 RGS complexes from Gi/o-gated G protein-regulated inwardly rectifying K(+) (GIRK) channels and delayed GIRK channel closure. In contrast, targeting R7BP to the plasma membrane with a polybasic domain and an irreversibly attached lipid instead of palmitate rendered GIRK channel closure insensitive to depalmitoylation inhibitors. Palmitate turnover therefore is required for localizing R7BP to the plasma membrane and facilitating Gi/o deactivation by R7 RGS proteins on GIRK channels. Our findings broaden the scope of biological processes regulated by palmitate turnover on specific target proteins. Inhibiting R7BP depalmitoylation may provide a means of enhancing GIRK activity in neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixia Jia
- From the Departments of Cell Biology and Physiology
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25
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Tian C, Zhu R, Zhu L, Qiu T, Cao Z, Kang T. Potassium Channels: Structures, Diseases, and Modulators. Chem Biol Drug Des 2013; 83:1-26. [DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.12237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Tian
- School of Life Sciences and Technology; Tongji University; Shanghai 200092 China
- School of Pharmacy; Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine; Dalian Liaoning 116600 China
| | - Ruixin Zhu
- School of Life Sciences and Technology; Tongji University; Shanghai 200092 China
| | - Lixin Zhu
- Department of Pediatrics; Digestive Diseases and Nutrition Center; The State University of New York at Buffalo; Buffalo NY 14226 USA
| | - Tianyi Qiu
- School of Life Sciences and Technology; Tongji University; Shanghai 200092 China
| | - Zhiwei Cao
- School of Life Sciences and Technology; Tongji University; Shanghai 200092 China
| | - Tingguo Kang
- School of Pharmacy; Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine; Dalian Liaoning 116600 China
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26
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Luján R, Marron Fernandez de Velasco E, Aguado C, Wickman K. New insights into the therapeutic potential of Girk channels. Trends Neurosci 2013; 37:20-9. [PMID: 24268819 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2013.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2013] [Revised: 10/24/2013] [Accepted: 10/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
G protein-dependent signaling pathways control the activity of excitable cells of the nervous system and heart, and are the targets of neurotransmitters, clinically relevant drugs, and drugs of abuse. G protein-gated inwardly rectifying potassium (K(+)) (Girk/Kir3) channels are a key effector in inhibitory signaling pathways. Girk-dependent signaling contributes to nociception and analgesia, reward-related behavior, mood, cognition, and heart-rate regulation, and has been linked to epilepsy, Down syndrome, addiction, and arrhythmias. We discuss recent advances in our understanding of Girk channel structure, organization in signaling complexes, and plasticity, as well as progress on the development of subunit-selective Girk modulators. These findings offer new hope for the selective manipulation of Girk channels to treat a variety of debilitating afflictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Luján
- Instituto de Investigación en Discapacidades Neurológicas (IDINE), Departamento de Ciencias Médicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Biosanitario, C/Almansa 14, 02008 Albacete, Spain.
| | | | - Carolina Aguado
- Instituto de Investigación en Discapacidades Neurológicas (IDINE), Departamento de Ciencias Médicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Biosanitario, C/Almansa 14, 02008 Albacete, Spain
| | - Kevin Wickman
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, 321 Church Street South East, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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Membrane channels as integrators of G-protein-mediated signaling. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2013; 1838:521-31. [PMID: 24028827 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2013.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2013] [Revised: 08/14/2013] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
A variety of extracellular stimuli regulate cellular responses via membrane receptors. A well-known group of seven-transmembrane domain-containing proteins referred to as G protein-coupled receptors, directly couple with the intracellular GTP-binding proteins (G proteins) across cell membranes and trigger various cellular responses by regulating the activity of several enzymes as well as ion channels. Many specific populations of ion channels are directly controlled by G proteins; however, indirect modulation of some channels by G protein-dependent phosphorylation events and lipid metabolism is also observed. G protein-mediated diverse modifications affect the ion channel activities and spatio-temporally regulate membrane potentials as well as of intracellular Ca(2+) concentrations in both excitatory and non-excitatory cells. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Reciprocal influences between cell cytoskeleton and membrane channels, receptors and transporters. Guest Editor: Jean Claude Hervé.
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28
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Khan SM, Sleno R, Gora S, Zylbergold P, Laverdure JP, Labbé JC, Miller GJ, Hébert TE. The expanding roles of Gβγ subunits in G protein-coupled receptor signaling and drug action. Pharmacol Rev 2013; 65:545-77. [PMID: 23406670 DOI: 10.1124/pr.111.005603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahriar M Khan
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, 3655 Promenade Sir-William-Osler, Room 1303, Montréal, Québec H3G 1Y6, Canada
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Lee SJ, Wang S, Borschel W, Heyman S, Gyore J, Nichols CG. Secondary anionic phospholipid binding site and gating mechanism in Kir2.1 inward rectifier channels. Nat Commun 2013; 4:2786. [PMID: 24270915 PMCID: PMC3868208 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms3786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2013] [Accepted: 10/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Inwardly rectifying potassium (Kir) channels regulate multiple tissues. All Kir channels require interaction of phosphatidyl-4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) at a crystallographically identified binding site, but an additional nonspecific secondary anionic phospholipid (PL(-)) is required to generate high PIP2 sensitivity of Kir2 channel gating. The PL(-)-binding site and mechanism are yet to be elucidated. Here we report docking simulations that identify a putative PL(-)-binding site, adjacent to the PIP2-binding site, generated by two lysine residues from neighbouring subunits. When either lysine is mutated to cysteine (K64C and K219C), channel activity is significantly decreased in cells and in reconstituted liposomes. Directly tethering K64C to the membrane by modification with decyl-MTS generates high PIP2 sensitivity in liposomes, even in the complete absence of PL(-)s. The results provide a coherent molecular mechanism whereby PL(-) interaction with a discrete binding site results in a conformational change that stabilizes the high-affinity PIP2 activatory site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Joo Lee
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology and the Center for Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Shizhen Wang
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology and the Center for Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - William Borschel
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology and the Center for Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Sarah Heyman
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology and the Center for Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Jacob Gyore
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology and the Center for Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Colin G. Nichols
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology and the Center for Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
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Richard-Lalonde M, Nagi K, Audet N, Sleno R, Amraei M, Hogue M, Balboni G, Schiller PW, Bouvier M, Hébert TE, Pineyro G. Conformational dynamics of Kir3.1/Kir3.2 channel activation via δ-opioid receptors. Mol Pharmacol 2012; 83:416-28. [PMID: 23175530 DOI: 10.1124/mol.112.081950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
This study assessed how conformational information encoded by ligand binding to δ-opioid receptors (DORs) is transmitted to Kir3.1/Kir3.2 channels. Human embryonic kidney 293 cells were transfected with bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) donor/acceptor pairs that allowed us to evaluate independently reciprocal interactions among signaling partners. These and coimmunoprecipitation studies indicated that DORs, Gβγ, and Kir3 subunits constitutively interacted with one another. GαoA associated with DORs and Gβγ, but despite being part of the complex, no evidence of its direct association with the channel was obtained. DOR activation by different ligands left DOR-Kir3 interactions unmodified but modulated BRET between DOR-GαoA, DOR-Gβγ, GαoA-Gβγ, and Gβγ-Kir3 interfaces. Ligand-induced BRET changes assessing Gβγ-Kir3.1 subunit interaction 1) followed similar kinetics to those monitoring the GαoA-Gβγ interface, 2) displayed the same order of efficacy as those observed at the DOR-Gβγ interface, 3) were sensitive to pertussis toxin, and 4) were predictive of whether a ligand could evoke channel currents. Conformational changes at the Gβγ/Kir3 interface were lost when Kir3.1 subunits were replaced by a mutant lacking essential sites for Gβγ-mediated activation. Thus, conformational information encoded by agonist binding to the receptor is relayed to the channel via structural rearrangements that involve repositioning of Gβγ with respect to DORs, GαoA, and channel subunits. Further, the fact that BRET changes at the Gβγ-Kir3 interface are predictive of a ligand's ability to induce channel currents points to these conformational biosensors as screening tools for identifying GPCR ligands that induce Kir3 channel activation.
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