1
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Islam MR, Markatos C, Pirmettis I, Papadopoulos M, Karageorgos V, Liapakis G, Fahmy H. Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluations of Novel Thiazolo[4,5-d]pyrimidine Corticotropin Releasing Factor (CRF) Receptor Antagonists as Potential Treatments for Stress Related Disorders and Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH). Molecules 2024; 29:3647. [PMID: 39125051 PMCID: PMC11314199 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29153647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is a key neuropeptide hormone that is secreted from the hypothalamus. It is the master hormone of the HPA axis, which orchestrates the physiological and behavioral responses to stress. Many disorders, including anxiety, depression, addiction relapse, and others, are related to over-activation of this system. Thus, new molecules that may interfere with CRF receptor binding may be of value to treat neuropsychiatric stress-related disorders. Also, CRF1R antagonists have recently emerged as potential treatment options for congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Previously, several series of CRF1 receptor antagonists were developed by our group. In continuation of our efforts in this direction, herein we report the synthesis and biological evaluation of a new series of CRF1R antagonists. Representative compounds were evaluated for their binding affinities compared to antalarmin. Four compounds (2, 5, 20, and 21) showed log IC50 values of -8.22, -7.95, -8.04, and -7.88, respectively, compared to -7.78 for antalarmin. This result indicates that these four compounds are superior to antalarmin by 2.5, 1.4, 1.7, and 1.25 times, respectively. It is worth mentioning that compound 2, in terms of IC50, is among the best CRF1R antagonists ever developed in the last 40 years. The in silico physicochemical properties of the lead compounds showed good drug-like properties. Thus, further research in this direction may lead to better and safer CRF receptor antagonists that may have clinical applications, particularly for stress-related disorders and the treatment of congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Rabiul Islam
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy & Allied Health Professions, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA;
| | - Christos Markatos
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, 71003 Crete, Greece; (C.M.); (V.K.); (G.L.)
| | - Ioannis Pirmettis
- Institute of Nuclear & Radiological Sciences & Technology, Energy & Safety, National Centre for Scientific Research “Demokritos”, 15310 Athens, Greece; (I.P.); (M.P.)
| | - Minas Papadopoulos
- Institute of Nuclear & Radiological Sciences & Technology, Energy & Safety, National Centre for Scientific Research “Demokritos”, 15310 Athens, Greece; (I.P.); (M.P.)
| | - Vlasios Karageorgos
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, 71003 Crete, Greece; (C.M.); (V.K.); (G.L.)
| | - George Liapakis
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, 71003 Crete, Greece; (C.M.); (V.K.); (G.L.)
| | - Hesham Fahmy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy & Allied Health Professions, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA;
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2
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Matsoukas MT, Panagiotopoulos V, Karageorgos V, Chrousos GP, Venihaki M, Liapakis G. Structural and Functional Insights into CRF Peptides and Their Receptors. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:120. [PMID: 38392338 PMCID: PMC10886364 DOI: 10.3390/biology13020120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing factor or hormone (CRF or CRH) and the urocortins regulate a plethora of physiological functions and are involved in many pathophysiological processes. CRF and urocortins belong to the family of CRF peptides (CRF family), which includes sauvagine, urotensin, and many synthetic peptide and non-peptide CRF analogs. Several of the CRF analogs have shown considerable therapeutic potential in the treatment of various diseases. The CRF peptide family act by interacting with two types of plasma membrane proteins, type 1 (CRF1R) and type 2 (CRF2R), which belong to subfamily B1 of the family B G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). This work describes the structure of CRF peptides and their receptors and the activation mechanism of the latter, which is compared with that of other GPCRs. It also discusses recent structural information that rationalizes the selective binding of various ligands to the two CRF receptor types and the activation of receptors by different agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minos-Timotheos Matsoukas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Vasilis Panagiotopoulos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Vlasios Karageorgos
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - George P Chrousos
- University Research Institute of Maternal and Child Health and Precision Medicine and UNESCO, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Livadias 8, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Venihaki
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - George Liapakis
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
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3
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Wygas MM, Laugwitz JM, Schmidt P, Elgeti M, Kaiser A. Dynamics of the Second Extracellular Loop Control Transducer Coupling of Peptide-Activated GPCRs. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12197. [PMID: 37569573 PMCID: PMC10419011 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Many peptide-activated rhodopsin-like GPCRs share a β-hairpin folding motif in the extracellular loop 2 (ECL2), which interacts with the peptide ligand while at the same time being connected to transmembrane helix 3 (TM3) via a highly conserved disulfide bond. Currently, it remains unknown whether the coupling of the specifically shaped ECL2 to TM3 influences the activation of peptide-activated GPCRs. We investigated this possibility in a selection of peptide GPCRs with known structures. Most of the receptors with cysteine to alanine mutations folded like the respective wild-type and resided in the cell membrane, challenging pure folding stabilization by the disulfide bridge. G-protein signaling of the disulfide mutants was retained to a greater extent in secretin-like GPCRs than in rhodopsin-like GPCRs, while recruitment of arrestin was completely abolished in both groups, which may be linked to alterations in ligand residence time. We found a correlation between receptor activity of the neuropeptide Y2 receptor and alterations in ECL2 dynamics using engineered disulfide bridges or site-directed spin labeling and EPR spectroscopy. These data highlight the functional importance of the TM3-ECL2 link for the activation of specific signaling pathways in peptide-activated GPCRs, which might have implications for future drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel M. Wygas
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Institute of Biochemistry, Leipzig University, Brüderstr. 34, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Jeannette M. Laugwitz
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Leipzig University, Haertelstasse 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Peter Schmidt
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Leipzig University, Haertelstasse 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Matthias Elgeti
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Leipzig University, Haertelstasse 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
- Medical Faculty, Institute for Drug Discovery, Leipzig University, Haertelstasse 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anette Kaiser
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Institute of Biochemistry, Leipzig University, Brüderstr. 34, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
- Medical Faculty, Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Leipzig University, Liebigstrasse 19, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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4
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Bridges JP, Safina C, Pirard B, Brown K, Filuta A, Panchanathan R, Bouhelal R, Reymann N, Patel S, Seuwen K, Miller WE, Ludwig MG. Regulation of pulmonary surfactant by the adhesion GPCR GPR116/ADGRF5 requires a tethered agonist-mediated activation mechanism. eLife 2022; 11:69061. [PMID: 36073784 PMCID: PMC9489211 DOI: 10.7554/elife.69061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanistic details of the tethered agonist mode of activation for the adhesion GPCR ADGRF5/GPR116 have not been completely deciphered. We set out to investigate the physiological importance of autocatalytic cleavage upstream of the agonistic peptide sequence, an event necessary for NTF displacement and subsequent receptor activation. To examine this hypothesis, we characterized tethered agonist-mediated activation of GPR116 in vitro and in vivo. A knock-in mouse expressing a non-cleavable GPR116 mutant phenocopies the pulmonary phenotype of GPR116 knock-out mice, demonstrating that tethered agonist-mediated receptor activation is indispensable for function in vivo. Using site-directed mutagenesis and species-swapping approaches, we identified key conserved amino acids for GPR116 activation in the tethered agonist sequence and in extracellular loops 2/3 (ECL2/3). We further highlight residues in transmembrane 7 (TM7) that mediate stronger signaling in mouse versus human GPR116 and recapitulate these findings in a model supporting tethered agonist:ECL2 interactions for GPR116 activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P Bridges
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, United States
| | - Caterina Safina
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Novartis, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bernard Pirard
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Novartis, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kari Brown
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, United States
| | - Alyssa Filuta
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, United States
| | - Ravichandran Panchanathan
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, United States
| | - Rochdi Bouhelal
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Novartis, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nicole Reymann
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Novartis, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sejal Patel
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Novartis, Cambridge, United States
| | - Klaus Seuwen
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Novartis, Basel, Switzerland
| | - William E Miller
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, United States
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5
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Design, synthesis, structural optimization, SAR, in silico prediction of physicochemical properties and pharmacological evaluation of novel & potent thiazolo[4,5-d]pyrimidine corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) receptor antagonists. Eur J Pharm Sci 2021; 169:106084. [PMID: 34856350 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2021.106084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is a 41-amino-acid neuropeptide secreted from the hypothalamus and is the main regulator of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis. CRF is the master hormone which modulates physiological and behavioral responses to stress. Many disorders including anxiety, depression, addictive disorders and others are related to over activation of the CRF system. This suggests that new molecules which can interfere with CRF binding to its receptors may be potential candidates for neuropsychiatric drugs to treat stress-related disorders. Previously, three series of pyrimidine and fused pyrimidine CRF1 receptor antagonists were synthesized by our group and specific binding assays, competitive binding studies and determination of the ability to antagonize the agonist-stimulated accumulation of cAMP (the second messenger for CRF receptors) were reported. In continuation of our efforts in this direction, in the current manuscript, we report the synthesis & biological evaluation of a new series of CRF1 receptor antagonists. Seven compounds showed promising binding affinity with the best two compounds (compounds 6 & 43) displaying a superior binding affinity to all of our previous compounds. Compounds 6 & 43 have only 4 times and 2 times less binding affinity than the standard CRF antagonist antalarmin, respectively. Thus, our two best lead compounds (compound 6 & 43) can be considered potent CRF receptor antagonists with binding affinity of 41.0 & 19.2 nM versus 9.7 nM for antalarmin.
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6
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Conserved residues in the extracellular loop 2 regulate Stachel-mediated activation of ADGRG2. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14060. [PMID: 34234254 PMCID: PMC8263569 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-93577-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cleavage and dissociation of a large N-terminal fragment and the consequent unmasking of a short sequence (Stachel) remaining on the N-terminus have been proposed as mechanisms of activation of some members of the adhesion G protein-coupled receptor (aGPCR) family. However, the identity of residues that play a role in the activation of aGPCRs by the cognate Stachel remains largely unknown. Protein sequence alignments revealed a conserved stretch of residues in the extracellular loop 2 (ECL2) of all 33 members of the aGPCR family. ADGRG2, an orphan aGPCR, plays a major role in male fertility, Ewing sarcoma cell proliferation, and parathyroid cell function. We used ADGRG2 as a model aGPCR and generated mutants of the conserved residues in the ECL2 via site-directed mutagenesis. We show that tryptophan and isoleucine in the ECL2 are essential for receptor stability and surface expression in the HEK293 cells. By adjusting the receptor surface expression levels, we show that mutation of these residues of ECL2 ablates the Stachel-mediated activation of multiple signaling pathways of ADGRG2. This study provides a novel understanding of the role of the ECL2 in Stachel-mediated signaling and degradation of ADGRG2, which may lay the foundation for the rational design of therapeutics to target aGPCRs.
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7
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Simms J, Uddin R, Sakmar TP, Gingell JJ, Garelja ML, Hay DL, Brimble MA, Harris PW, Reynolds CA, Poyner DR. Photoaffinity Cross-Linking and Unnatural Amino Acid Mutagenesis Reveal Insights into Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide Binding to the Calcitonin Receptor-like Receptor/Receptor Activity-Modifying Protein 1 (CLR/RAMP1) Complex. Biochemistry 2018; 57:4915-4922. [PMID: 30004692 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.8b00502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) binds to the complex of the calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CLR) with receptor activity-modifying protein 1 (RAMP1). How CGRP interacts with the transmembrane domain (including the extracellular loops) of this family B receptor remains unclear. In this study, a photoaffinity cross-linker, p-azido l-phenylalanine (azF), was incorporated into CLR, chiefly in the second extracellular loop (ECL2) using genetic code expansion and unnatural amino acid mutagenesis. The method was optimized to ensure efficient photolysis of azF residues near the transmembrane bundle of the receptor. A CGRP analogue modified with fluorescein at position 15 was used for detection of ultraviolet-induced cross-linking. The methodology was verified by confirming the known contacts of CGRP to the extracellular domain of CLR. Within ECL2, the chief contacts were I284 on the loop itself and L291, at the top of the fifth transmembrane helix (TM5). Minor contacts were noted along the lip of ECL2 between S286 and L290 and also with M223 in TM3 and F349 in TM6. Full length molecular models of the bound receptor complex suggest that CGRP sits at the top of the TM bundle, with Thr6 of the peptide making contacts with L291 and H295. I284 is likely to contact Leu12 and Ala13 of CGRP, and Leu16 of CGRP is at the ECL/extracellular domain boundary of CLR. The reduced potency, Emax, and affinity of [Leu16Ala]-human α CGRP are consistent with this model. Contacts between Thr6 of CGRP and H295 may be particularly important for receptor activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Simms
- Aston University , Birmingham B4 7ET , U.K
- Coventry University , Priory Street , Coventry CV1 5FB , U.K
| | | | - Thomas P Sakmar
- The Rockefeller University , 1230 York Avenue , New York , New York 10065 , United States
| | - Joseph J Gingell
- University of Auckland , 3A Symonds Street , Auckland 1010 , New Zealand
| | - Michael L Garelja
- University of Auckland , 3A Symonds Street , Auckland 1010 , New Zealand
| | - Debbie L Hay
- University of Auckland , 3A Symonds Street , Auckland 1010 , New Zealand
| | - Margaret A Brimble
- University of Auckland , 3A Symonds Street , Auckland 1010 , New Zealand
| | - Paul W Harris
- University of Auckland , 3A Symonds Street , Auckland 1010 , New Zealand
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8
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Karageorgos V, Venihaki M, Sakellaris S, Pardalos M, Kontakis G, Matsoukas MT, Gravanis A, Margioris A, Liapakis G. Current understanding of the structure and function of family B GPCRs to design novel drugs. Hormones (Athens) 2018; 17:45-59. [PMID: 29858864 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-018-0009-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Family B of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and their ligands play a central role in a number of homeostatic mechanisms in the endocrine, gastrointestinal, skeletal, immune, cardiovascular and central nervous systems. Alterations in family B GPCR-regulated homeostatic mechanisms may cause a variety of potentially life-threatening conditions, signifying the necessity to develop novel ligands targeting these receptors. Obtaining structural and functional information on family B GPCRs will accelerate the development of novel drugs to target these receptors. Family B GPCRs are proteins that span the plasma membrane seven times, thus forming seven transmembrane domains (TM1-TM7) which are connected to each other by three extracellular (EL) and three intracellular (IL) loops. In addition, these receptors have a long extracellular N-domain and an intracellular C-tail. The upper parts of the TMs and ELs form the J-domain of receptors. The C-terminal region of peptides first binds to the N-domain of receptors. This 'first-step' interaction orients the N-terminal region of peptides towards the J-domain of receptors, thus resulting in a 'second-step' of ligand-receptor interaction that activates the receptor. Activation-associated structural changes of receptors are transmitted through TMs to their intracellular regions and are responsible for their interaction with the G proteins and activation of the latter, thus resulting in a biological effect. This review summarizes the current information regarding the structure and function of family B GPCRs and their physiological and pathophysiological roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vlasios Karageorgos
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Maria Venihaki
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Stelios Sakellaris
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Michail Pardalos
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - George Kontakis
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | | | - Achille Gravanis
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Andreas Margioris
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - George Liapakis
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
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9
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Woolley MJ, Simms J, Mobarec JC, Reynolds CA, Poyner DR, Conner AC. Understanding the molecular functions of the second extracellular loop (ECL2) of the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor using a comprehensive mutagenesis approach. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 454:39-49. [PMID: 28572046 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2017] [Revised: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular loop 2 (ECL2) region is the most conserved of the three ECL domains in family B G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and has a fundamental role in ligand binding and activation across the receptor super-family. ECL2 is fundamental for ligand-induced activation of the calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) receptor, a family B GPCR implicated in migraine and heart disease. In this study we apply a comprehensive targeted non-alanine substitution analysis method and molecular modelling to the functionally important residues of ECL2 to reveal key molecular interactions. We identified an interaction network between R274/Y278/D280/W283. These amino acids had the biggest reduction in signalling following alanine substitution analysis and comprise a group of basic, acidic and aromatic residues conserved in the wider calcitonin family of class B GPCRs. This study identifies key and varied constraints at each locus, including diverse biochemical requirements for neighbouring tyrosine residues and a W283H substitution that recovered wild-type (WT) signalling, despite the strictly conserved nature of the central ECL2 tryptophan and the catastrophic effects on signalling of W283A substitution. In contrast, while the distal end of ECL2 requires strict conservation of hydrophobicity or polarity in each position, mutation of these residues never has a large effect. This approach has revealed linked networks of amino acids, consistent with structural models of ECL2 and likely to represent a shared structural framework at an important ligand-receptor interface that is present across the family B GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Woolley
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - John Simms
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham, UK
| | | | | | - David R Poyner
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alex C Conner
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
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10
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Seidel L, Zarzycka B, Zaidi SA, Katritch V, Coin I. Structural insight into the activation of a class B G-protein-coupled receptor by peptide hormones in live human cells. eLife 2017; 6. [PMID: 28771403 PMCID: PMC5542768 DOI: 10.7554/elife.27711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The activation mechanism of class B G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) remains largely unknown. To characterize conformational changes induced by peptide hormones, we investigated interactions of the class B corticotropin-releasing factor receptor type 1 (CRF1R) with two peptide agonists and three peptide antagonists obtained by N-truncation of the agonists. Surface mapping with genetically encoded photo-crosslinkers and pair-wise crosslinking revealed distinct footprints of agonists and antagonists on the transmembrane domain (TMD) of CRF1R and identified numerous ligand-receptor contact sites, directly from the intact receptor in live human cells. The data enabled generating atomistic models of CRF- and CRF(12-41)-bound CRF1R, further explored by molecular dynamics simulations. We show that bound agonist and antagonist adopt different folds and stabilize distinct TMD conformations, which involves bending of helices VI and VII around flexible glycine hinges. Conservation of these glycine hinges among all class B GPCRs suggests their general role in activation of these receptors. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.27711.001
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Seidel
- Institute of Biochemistry, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Barbara Zarzycka
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Saheem A Zaidi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Vsevolod Katritch
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, United States.,Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Irene Coin
- Institute of Biochemistry, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
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11
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Inda C, Armando NG, Dos Santos Claro PA, Silberstein S. Endocrinology and the brain: corticotropin-releasing hormone signaling. Endocr Connect 2017; 6:R99-R120. [PMID: 28710078 PMCID: PMC5551434 DOI: 10.1530/ec-17-0111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is a key player of basal and stress-activated responses in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) and in extrahypothalamic circuits, where it functions as a neuromodulator to orchestrate humoral and behavioral adaptive responses to stress. This review describes molecular components and cellular mechanisms involved in CRH signaling downstream of its G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) CRHR1 and CRHR2 and summarizes recent findings that challenge the classical view of GPCR signaling and impact on our understanding of CRHRs function. Special emphasis is placed on recent studies of CRH signaling that revealed new mechanistic aspects of cAMP generation and ERK1/2 activation in physiologically relevant contexts of the neurohormone action. In addition, we present an overview of the pathophysiological role of the CRH system, which highlights the need for a precise definition of CRHRs signaling at molecular level to identify novel targets for pharmacological intervention in neuroendocrine tissues and specific brain areas involved in CRH-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Inda
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA)-CONICET-Partner Institute of the Max Planck SocietyBuenos Aires, Argentina
- DFBMCFacultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Natalia G Armando
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA)-CONICET-Partner Institute of the Max Planck SocietyBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Paula A Dos Santos Claro
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA)-CONICET-Partner Institute of the Max Planck SocietyBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Susana Silberstein
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA)-CONICET-Partner Institute of the Max Planck SocietyBuenos Aires, Argentina
- DFBMCFacultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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12
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Woolley MJ, Simms J, Uddin S, Poyner DR, Conner AC. Relative Antagonism of Mutants of the CGRP Receptor Extracellular Loop 2 Domain (ECL2) Using a Truncated Competitive Antagonist (CGRP 8-37): Evidence for the Dual Involvement of ECL2 in the Two-Domain Binding Model. Biochemistry 2017; 56:3877-3880. [PMID: 28691801 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.7b00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The second extracellular loop (ECL2) of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family is important for ligand interaction and drug discovery. ECL2 of the family B cardioprotective calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor is required for cell signaling. Family B GPCR ligands have two regions; the N-terminus mediates receptor activation, and the remainder confers high-affinity binding. Comparing antagonism of CGRP8-37 at a number of point mutations of ECL2 of the CGRP receptor, we show that the ECL2 potentially facilitates interaction with up to the 18 N-terminal residues of CGRP. This has implications for understanding family B GPCR activation and for drug design at the CGRP receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Woolley
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham , Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K
| | - John Simms
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University , Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, U.K
| | - Sifat Uddin
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham , Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K
| | - David R Poyner
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University , Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, U.K
| | - Alex C Conner
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham , Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K
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13
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Woolley MJ, Conner AC. Understanding the common themes and diverse roles of the second extracellular loop (ECL2) of the GPCR super-family. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 449:3-11. [PMID: 27899324 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Revised: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The extracellular loops (ECLs) of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) can bind directly to docked orthosteric or allosteric ligands, they can contain transient contact points for ligand entry into the transmembrane (TM) bundle and they can regulate the activation of the receptor signalling pathways. Of the three ECLs, ECL2 is the largest and most structurally diverse reflecting its functional importance. This has been shown through biochemical techniques and has been supported by the many subsequent crystal structures of GPCRs bound to both agonists and antagonists. ECL2 shares common structural features between (and sometimes across) receptor sub-families and can facilitate ligand entry to the TM core or act directly as a surface of the ligand-binding pocket. Structural similarities seem to underpin common binding mechanisms; however, where these exist, variations in primary sequence ensure ligand-binding specificity. This review will compare current understanding of the structural themes and main functional roles of ECL2 in ligand binding, activation and regulation of the major families of GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Woolley
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alex C Conner
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK.
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14
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Matsoukas MT, Spyroulias GA. Dynamic properties of the growth hormone releasing hormone receptor (GHRHR) and molecular determinants of GHRH binding. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 13:1313-1322. [DOI: 10.1039/c7mb00130d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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15
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Culhane KJ, Liu Y, Cai Y, Yan ECY. Transmembrane signal transduction by peptide hormones via family B G protein-coupled receptors. Front Pharmacol 2015; 6:264. [PMID: 26594176 PMCID: PMC4633518 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2015.00264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Although family B G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) contain only 15 members, they play key roles in transmembrane signal transduction of hormones. Family B GPCRs are drug targets for developing therapeutics for diseases ranging from metabolic to neurological disorders. Despite their importance, the molecular mechanism of activation of family B GPCRs remains largely unexplored due to the challenges in expression and purification of functional receptors to the quantity for biophysical characterization. Currently, there is no crystal structure available of a full-length family B GPCR. However, structures of key domains, including the extracellular ligand binding regions and seven-helical transmembrane regions, have been solved by X-ray crystallography and NMR, providing insights into the mechanisms of ligand recognition and selectivity, and helical arrangements within the cell membrane. Moreover, biophysical and biochemical methods have been used to explore functions, key residues for signaling, and the kinetics and dynamics of signaling processes. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the signal transduction mechanism of family B GPCRs at the molecular level and comments on the challenges and outlook for mechanistic studies of family B GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly J Culhane
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yuting Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Yale University New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yingying Cai
- Department of Chemistry, Yale University New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Elsa C Y Yan
- Department of Chemistry, Yale University New Haven, CT, USA
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16
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Kuppast B, Spyridaki K, Lynch C, Hu Y, Liapakis G, Davies GE, Fahmy H. Synthesis of new thiazolo[4,5-d]pyrimidines as Corticotropin releasing factor modulators. Med Chem 2015; 11:50-9. [PMID: 25059547 PMCID: PMC4462850 DOI: 10.2174/1573406410666140724115627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2014] [Revised: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is a neurohormone that plays a crucial role in integrating the body's overall response to stress. It appears necessary and sufficient for the organism to mount functional, physiological and endocrine responses to stressors. CRF is released in response to various triggers such as chronic stress. The role of CRF and its involvement in these neurological disorders suggest that new drugs that can target the CRF function or bind to its receptors may represent a new development of neuropsychiatric medicines to treat various stress-related disorders including depression, anxiety and addictive disorders. Based on pharmacophore of the CRF1 receptor antagonists, a new series of thiazolo[4,5-d] pyrimidines were synthesized as Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) receptor modulators and the prepared compounds carry groups shown to produce optimum binding affinity to CRF receptors. Twenty two compounds were evaluated for their CRF1 receptor binding affinity in HEK 293 cell lines and two compounds 5o and 5s showed approximately 25% binding affinity to CRF1 receptors. Selected compounds (5c and 5f) were also evaluated for their effect on expression of genes associated with depression and anxiety disorders such as CRF1, CREB1, MAO-A, SERT, NPY, DatSLC6a3, and DBH and significant upregulation of CRF1 mRNA has been observed with compound 5c.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Hesham Fahmy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA.
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17
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Plazinska A, Plazinski W, Jozwiak K. Agonist binding by the β2-adrenergic receptor: an effect of receptor conformation on ligand association-dissociation characteristics. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2015; 44:149-63. [PMID: 25726162 PMCID: PMC4359354 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-015-1010-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2014] [Revised: 11/20/2014] [Accepted: 01/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The β2-adrenergic receptor (β2-AR), a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), is a physiologically important transmembrane protein that is a target for drugs used for treatment of asthma and cardiovascular diseases. Study of the first steps of ligand recognition and the molecular basis of ligand binding to the orthosteric site is essential for understanding the pharmacological properties of the receptor. In this work we investigated the characteristic features of the agonist association–dissociation process to and from the different conformational forms of β2-AR by use of advanced molecular modeling techniques. The investigation was focused on estimating the free energy profiles (FEPs) corresponding to the process of a full agonist ((R,R)-fenoterol) and an inverse agonist (carazolol) binding and unbinding to and from β2-AR. The two different conformational forms of β2-AR, i.e. active β2-AR–PDB: 3P0G and inactive β2-AR–PDB: 2RH1 were included in this stage of the study. We revealed several significant qualitative differences between FEPs characteristic of both conformational forms. Both FEPs suggest the existence of three transient binding sites in the extracellular domain of β2-AR. Comparison of the residues surrounding these transient binding sites in both β2-AR states revealed the importance of the aromatic residues F194, H932.64, H2966.58, and H178 (extracellular part of β2-AR) in the early stages of the binding process. In addition, slightly different exit and entry paths are preferred by the ligand molecule in the extracellular part of β2-AR, depending on the conformation of the receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Plazinska
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Neuroengineering, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, W. Chodzki Str., 4a, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
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18
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Dong M, Koole C, Wootten D, Sexton PM, Miller LJ. Structural and functional insights into the juxtamembranous amino-terminal tail and extracellular loop regions of class B GPCRs. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:1085-101. [PMID: 23889342 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Revised: 06/22/2013] [Accepted: 06/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Class B guanine nucleotide-binding protein GPCRs share heptahelical topology and signalling via coupling with heterotrimeric G proteins typical of the entire superfamily of GPCRs. However, they also exhibit substantial structural differences from the more extensively studied class A GPCRs. Even their helical bundle region, most conserved across the superfamily, is predicted to differ from that of class A GPCRs. Much is now known about the conserved structure of the amino-terminal domain of class B GPCRs, coming from isolated NMR and crystal structures, but the orientation of that domain relative to the helical bundle is unknown, and even less is understood about the conformations of the juxtamembranous amino-terminal tail or of the extracellular loops linking the transmembrane segments. We now review what is known about the structure and function of these regions of class B GPCRs. This comes from indirect analysis of structure-function relationships elucidated by mutagenesis and/or ligand modification and from the more direct analysis of spatial approximation coming from photoaffinity labelling and cysteine trapping studies. Also reviewed are the limited studies of structure of some of these regions. No dominant theme was recognized for the structures or functional roles of distinct regions of these juxtamembranous portions of the class B GPCRs. Therefore, it is likely that a variety of molecular strategies can be engaged for docking of agonist ligands and for initiation of conformational changes in these receptors that would be expected to converge to a common molecular mechanism for activation of intracellular signalling cascades.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Dong
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
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19
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Spyridaki K, Matsoukas MT, Cordomi A, Gkountelias K, Papadokostaki M, Mavromoustakos T, Logothetis DE, Margioris AN, Pardo L, Liapakis G. Structural-functional analysis of the third transmembrane domain of the corticotropin-releasing factor type 1 receptor: role in activation and allosteric antagonism. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:18966-77. [PMID: 24838244 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.544460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) type 1 receptor (CRF1R) for the 41-amino acid peptide CRF is a class B G protein-coupled receptor, which plays a key role in the response of our body to stressful stimuli and the maintenance of homeostasis by regulating neural and endocrine functions. CRF and related peptides, such as sauvagine, bind to the extracellular regions of CRF1R and activate the receptor. In contrast, small nonpeptide antagonists, which are effective against stress-related disorders, such as depression and anxiety, have been proposed to interact with the helical transmembrane domains (TMs) of CRF1R and allosterically antagonize peptide binding and receptor activation. Here, we aimed to elucidate the role of the third TM (TM3) in the molecular mechanisms underlying activation of CRF1R. TM3 was selected because its tilted orientation, relative to the membrane, allows its residues to establish key interactions with ligands, other TM helices, and the G protein. Using a combination of pharmacological, biochemical, and computational approaches, we found that Phe-203(3.40) and Gly-210(3.47) in TM3 play an important role in receptor activation. Our experimental findings also suggest that Phe-203(3.40) interacts with nonpeptide antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Minos-Timotheos Matsoukas
- the Laboratori de Medicina Computacional, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra 08193, Spain
| | - Arnau Cordomi
- the Laboratori de Medicina Computacional, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra 08193, Spain
| | | | | | - Thomas Mavromoustakos
- the Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Athens, Athens 11571, Greece, and
| | - Diomedes E Logothetis
- the Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298
| | - Andrew N Margioris
- Clinical Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion 71003, Greece
| | - Leonardo Pardo
- the Laboratori de Medicina Computacional, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra 08193, Spain
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20
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Corticotrophin-Releasing Factor (CRF) and the urocortins are potent regulators of the inflammatory phenotype of human and mouse white adipocytes and the differentiation of mouse 3T3L1 pre-adipocytes. PLoS One 2014; 9:e97060. [PMID: 24835211 PMCID: PMC4024041 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0097060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2013] [Accepted: 04/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic activation of innate immunity takes place in obesity and initiated by the hypertrophic adipocytes which obtain a pro-inflammatory phenotype. The corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF) family of neuropeptides and their receptors (CRF1 and CRF2) affect stress response and innate immunity. Adipose tissue expresses a complete CRF system. The aim of this study was to examine the role of CRF neuropeptides in the immune phenotype of adipocytes assessed by their expression of the toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4), the production of inflammatory cytokines IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β, chemokines IL-8, monocyte attractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and of the adipokines adiponectin, resistin and leptin. Our data are as follows: (a) CRF, UCN2 and UCN3 are expressed in human white adipocytes as well as CRFR1a, CRFR2a and CRFR2b but not CRFR2c. 3T3L1 pre-adipocytes and differentiated adipocytes expressed both CRF1 and CRF2 receptors and UCN3, while UCN2 was detected only in differentiated adipocytes. CRF2 was up-regulated in mouse mature adipocytes. (b) CRF1 agonists suppressed media- and LPS-induced pre-adipocyte differentiation while CRF2 receptor agonists had no effect. (c) In mouse pre-adipocytes, CRF2 agonists suppressed TLR4 expression and the production of IL-6, CXCL1 and adiponectin while CRF1 agonists had no effect. (d) In mature mouse adipocytes LPS induced IL-6 and CXCL1 production and suppressed leptin. (e) In human visceral adipocytes LPS induced IL-6, TNF-α, IL-8, MCP-1 and leptin production and suppressed adiponectin and resistin. (f) In mouse mature adipocytes CRF1 and CRF2 agonists suppressed basal and LPS-induced production of inflammatory cytokines, TLR4 expression and adiponectin production, while in human visceral adipocytes CRF and UCN1 suppressed basal and LPS-induced IL-6, TNF-α, IL-8 and MCP-1 production. In conclusion, the effects of the activation of CRF1 and CRF2 may be significant in ameliorating the pro-inflammatory activity of adipocytes in obesity.
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21
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Kuppast B, Spyridaki K, Liapakis G, Fahmy H. Synthesis of substituted pyrimidines as corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) receptor ligands. Eur J Med Chem 2014; 78:1-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2014.03.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2013] [Revised: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 03/13/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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22
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Coin I, Katritch V, Sun T, Xiang Z, Siu FY, Beyermann M, Stevens RC, Wang L. Genetically encoded chemical probes in cells reveal the binding path of urocortin-I to CRF class B GPCR. Cell 2013; 155:1258-69. [PMID: 24290358 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2013.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2013] [Revised: 08/26/2013] [Accepted: 11/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Molecular determinants regulating the activation of class B G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) by native peptide agonists are largely unknown. We have investigated here the interaction between the corticotropin releasing factor receptor type 1 (CRF1R) and its native 40-mer peptide ligand Urocortin-I directly in mammalian cells. By incorporating unnatural amino acid photochemical and new click-chemical probes into the intact receptor expressed in the native membrane of live cells, 44 intermolecular spatial constraints have been derived for the ligand-receptor interaction. The data were analyzed in the context of the recently resolved crystal structure of CRF1R transmembrane domain and existing extracellular domain structures, yielding a complete conformational model for the peptide-receptor complex. Structural features of the receptor-ligand complex yield molecular insights on the mechanism of receptor activation and the basis for discrimination between agonist and antagonist function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Coin
- Jack H. Skirball Center for Chemical Biology and Proteomics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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23
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Woolley MJ, Watkins HA, Taddese B, Karakullukcu ZG, Barwell J, Smith KJ, Hay DL, Poyner DR, Reynolds CA, Conner AC. The role of ECL2 in CGRP receptor activation: a combined modelling and experimental approach. J R Soc Interface 2013; 10:20130589. [PMID: 24047872 PMCID: PMC3785825 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2013.0589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor is a complex of a calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CLR), which is a family B G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) and receptor activity modifying protein 1. The role of the second extracellular loop (ECL2) of CLR in binding CGRP and coupling to Gs was investigated using a combination of mutagenesis and modelling. An alanine scan of residues 271–294 of CLR showed that the ability of CGRP to produce cAMP was impaired by point mutations at 13 residues; most of these also impaired the response to adrenomedullin (AM). These data were used to select probable ECL2-modelled conformations that are involved in agonist binding, allowing the identification of the likely contacts between the peptide and receptor. The implications of the most likely structures for receptor activation are discussed.
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24
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Barwell J, Gingell JJ, Watkins HA, Archbold JK, Poyner DR, Hay DL. Calcitonin and calcitonin receptor-like receptors: common themes with family B GPCRs? Br J Pharmacol 2012; 166:51-65. [PMID: 21649645 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01525.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The calcitonin receptor (CTR) and calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CLR) are two of the 15 human family B (or Secretin-like) GPCRs. CTR and CLR are of considerable biological interest as their pharmacology is moulded by interactions with receptor activity-modifying proteins. They also have therapeutic relevance for many conditions, such as osteoporosis, diabetes, obesity, lymphatic insufficiency, migraine and cardiovascular disease. In light of recent advances in understanding ligand docking and receptor activation in both the family as a whole and in CLR and CTR specifically, this review reflects how applicable general family B GPCR themes are to these two idiosyncratic receptors. We review the main functional domains of the receptors; the N-terminal extracellular domain, the juxtamembrane domain and ligand interface, the transmembrane domain and the intracellular C-terminal domain. Structural and functional findings from the CLR and CTR along with other family B GPCRs are critically appraised to gain insight into how these domains may function. The ability for CTR and CLR to interact with receptor activity-modifying proteins adds another level of sophistication to these receptor systems but means careful consideration is needed when trying to apply generic GPCR principles. This review encapsulates current thinking in the realm of family B GPCR research by highlighting both conflicting and recurring themes and how such findings relate to two unusual but important receptors, CTR and CLR.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Barwell
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham, UK
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25
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Grammatopoulos DK. Insights into mechanisms of corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor signal transduction. Br J Pharmacol 2012; 166:85-97. [PMID: 21883143 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01631.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
During evolution, mammals have developed remarkably similar molecular mechanisms to respond to external challenges and maintain survival. Critical regulators of these mechanisms are the family of 'stress'-peptides that consists of the corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and urocortins (Ucns). These neuropeptides 'fine-tune' integration of an intricate series of physiological responses involving the autonomic, endocrine, immune, cardiovascular and reproductive systems, which induce a spectrum of behavioural and homeostatic changes. CRH and Ucns exert their actions by activating two types of CRH receptors (CRH-R), CRH-R1 and CRH-R2, which belong to the class-B1 family of GPCRs. The CRH-Rs exhibit signalling promiscuity facilitated by their ability to couple to multiple G-proteins and regulate diverse intracellular networks that involve intracellular effectors such as cAMP and an array of PKs in an agonist and tissue-specific manner, a property that allows them to exert unique roles in the integration of homeostatic mechanisms. We only now begin to unravel the plethora of CRH-R biological actions and the transcriptional and post-translational mechanisms such as alternative mRNA splicing or phosphorylation-mediated desensitization developed to tightly control CRH-Rs biological activity and regulate their physiological actions. This review summarizes the current understanding of CRH-R signalling complexity and regulatory mechanisms that underpin cellular responses to CRH and Ucns.
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26
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Abstract
The CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide) receptor is a family B GPCR (G-protein-coupled receptor). It consists of a GPCR, CLR (calcitonin receptor-like receptor) and an accessory protein, RAMP1 (receptor activity-modifying protein 1). RAMP1 is needed for CGRP binding and also cell-surface expression of CLR. There have been few systematic studies of the ECLs (extracellular loops) of family B GPCRs. However, they are likely to be especially important for the interaction of the N-termini of the peptide agonists that are the natural agonists for these receptors. We have carried out alanine scans on all three ECLs of CLR, as well as their associated juxtamembrane regions. Residues within all three loops influence CGRP binding and receptor activation. Mutation of Ala203 and Ala206 on ECL1 to leucine increased the affinity of CGRP. Residues at the top of TM (transmembrane) helices 2 and 3 influenced CGRP binding and receptor activation. L351A and E357A in TM6/ECL3 reduced receptor expression and may be needed for CLR association with RAMP1. ECL2 seems especially important for CLR function; of the 16 residues so far examined in this loop, eight residues reduce the potency of CGRP at stimulating cAMP production when mutated to alanine.
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27
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Wheatley M, Wootten D, Conner MT, Simms J, Kendrick R, Logan RT, Poyner DR, Barwell J. Lifting the lid on GPCRs: the role of extracellular loops. Br J Pharmacol 2012; 165:1688-1703. [PMID: 21864311 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01629.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 226] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
GPCRs exhibit a common architecture of seven transmembrane helices (TMs) linked by intracellular loops and extracellular loops (ECLs). Given their peripheral location to the site of G-protein interaction, it might be assumed that ECL segments merely link the important TMs within the helical bundle of the receptor. However, compelling evidence has emerged in recent years revealing a critical role for ECLs in many fundamental aspects of GPCR function, which supported by recent GPCR crystal structures has provided mechanistic insights. This review will present current understanding of the key roles of ECLs in ligand binding, activation and regulation of both family A and family B GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Wheatley
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UKDrug Discovery Biology Laboratory, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaDepartment of Pharmacology, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaSchool of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham, UK
| | - D Wootten
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UKDrug Discovery Biology Laboratory, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaDepartment of Pharmacology, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaSchool of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham, UK
| | - M T Conner
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UKDrug Discovery Biology Laboratory, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaDepartment of Pharmacology, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaSchool of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham, UK
| | - J Simms
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UKDrug Discovery Biology Laboratory, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaDepartment of Pharmacology, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaSchool of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham, UK
| | - R Kendrick
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UKDrug Discovery Biology Laboratory, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaDepartment of Pharmacology, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaSchool of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham, UK
| | - R T Logan
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UKDrug Discovery Biology Laboratory, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaDepartment of Pharmacology, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaSchool of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham, UK
| | - D R Poyner
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UKDrug Discovery Biology Laboratory, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaDepartment of Pharmacology, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaSchool of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham, UK
| | - J Barwell
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UKDrug Discovery Biology Laboratory, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaDepartment of Pharmacology, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, AustraliaSchool of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham, UK
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28
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Unal H, Karnik SS. Domain coupling in GPCRs: the engine for induced conformational changes. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2011; 33:79-88. [PMID: 22037017 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2011.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2011] [Revised: 09/23/2011] [Accepted: 09/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Recent solved structures of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) provide insights into variation of the structure and molecular mechanisms of GPCR activation. In this review, we provide evidence for the emerging paradigm of domain coupling facilitated by intrinsic disorder of the ligand-free state in GPCRs. The structure-function and dynamic studies suggest that ligand-bound GPCRs exhibit multiple active conformations in initiating cellular signals. Long-range intramolecular and intermolecular interactions at distant sites on the same receptor are crucial factors that modulate signaling function of GPCRs. Positive or negative coupling between the extracellular, the transmembrane and the intracellular domains facilitates cooperativity of activating 'switches' as requirements for the functional plasticity of GPCRs. Awareness that allosteric ligands robustly affect domain coupling provides a novel mechanistic basis for rational drug development, small molecule antagonism and GPCR regulation by classical as well as nonclassical modes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamiyet Unal
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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González A, Perez-Acle T, Pardo L, Deupi X. Molecular basis of ligand dissociation in β-adrenergic receptors. PLoS One 2011; 6:e23815. [PMID: 21915263 PMCID: PMC3168429 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0023815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2011] [Accepted: 07/25/2011] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The important and diverse biological functions of β-adrenergic receptors (βARs) have promoted the search for compounds to stimulate or inhibit their activity. In this regard, unraveling the molecular basis of ligand binding/unbinding events is essential to understand the pharmacological properties of these G protein-coupled receptors. In this study, we use the steered molecular dynamics simulation method to describe, in atomic detail, the unbinding process of two inverse agonists, which have been recently co-crystallized with β1 and β2ARs subtypes, along four different channels. Our results indicate that this type of compounds likely accesses the orthosteric binding site of βARs from the extracellular water environment. Importantly, reconstruction of forces and energies from the simulations of the dissociation process suggests, for the first time, the presence of secondary binding sites located in the extracellular loops 2 and 3 and transmembrane helix 7, where ligands are transiently retained by electrostatic and Van der Waals interactions. Comparison of the residues that form these new transient allosteric binding sites in both βARs subtypes reveals the importance of non-conserved electrostatic interactions as well as conserved aromatic contacts in the early steps of the binding process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel González
- Laboratori de Medicina Computacional, Unitat de Bioestadística, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Catalunya, Spain
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - Tomas Perez-Acle
- Computational Biology Lab, Center for Mathematical Modeling, Facultad de Ciencias Físicas y Matemáticas, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso, Playa Ancha, Valparaíso, Chile
- Fundación Ciencia para la Vida, Ñuñoa, Santiago, Chile
| | - Leonardo Pardo
- Laboratori de Medicina Computacional, Unitat de Bioestadística, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Catalunya, Spain
| | - Xavier Deupi
- Condensed Matter Theory Group and Laboratory of Biomolecular Research, Paul Scherrer Institut, Villigen PSI, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
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Rassouli O, Liapakis G, Lazaridis I, Sakellaris G, Gkountelias K, Gravanis A, Margioris AN, Karalis KP, Venihaki M. A novel role of peripheral corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) on dermal fibroblasts. PLoS One 2011; 6:e21654. [PMID: 21765902 PMCID: PMC3135586 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2010] [Accepted: 06/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing hormone, or factor, (CRH or CRF) exerts important biological effects in multiple peripheral tissues via paracrine/autocrine actions. The aim of our study was to assess the effects of endogenous CRH in the biology of mouse and human skin fibroblasts, the primary cell type involved in wound healing. We show expression of CRH and its receptors in primary fibroblasts, and we demonstrate the functionality of fibroblast CRH receptors by induction of cAMP. Fibroblasts genetically deficient in Crh (Crh-/-) had higher proliferation and migration rates and compromised production of IL-6 and TGF-β1 compared to the wildtype (Crh+/+) cells. Human primary cultures of foreskin fibroblasts exposed to the CRF(1) antagonist antalarmin recapitulated the findings in the Crh-/- cells, exhibiting altered proliferative and migratory behavior and suppressed production of IL-6. In conclusion, our findings show an important role of fibroblast-expressed CRH in the proliferation, migration, and cytokine production of these cells, processes associated with the skin response to injury. Our data suggest that the immunomodulatory effects of CRH may include an important, albeit not explored yet, role in epidermal tissue remodeling and regeneration and maintenance of tissue homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Rassouli
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - George Liapakis
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Iakovos Lazaridis
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - George Sakellaris
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Kostas Gkountelias
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Andrew N. Margioris
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Katia P. Karalis
- Developmental Biology Section, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Division of Endocrinology, Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachussets, United States of America
| | - Maria Venihaki
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) comprise a large class of transmembrane proteins that play critical roles in both normal physiology and pathophysiology. These critical roles offer targets for therapeutic intervention, as exemplified by the substantial fraction of current pharmaceutical agents that target members of this family. Tremendous contributions to our understanding of GPCR structure and dynamics have come from both indirect and direct structural characterization techniques. Key features of GPCR conformations derived from both types of characterization techniques are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abby L. Parrill
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +1-901-678-2638; Fax: +1-901-678-3447
| | - Debra L. Bautista
- Christian Brothers High School, 5900 Walnut Grove Road, Memphis, TN 38120, USA; E-Mail: (D.L.B.)
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Beierlein JM, Karri NG, Anderson AC. Targeted mutations of Bacillus anthracis dihydrofolate reductase condense complex structure−activity relationships. J Med Chem 2010; 53:7327-36. [PMID: 20882962 DOI: 10.1021/jm100727t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Several antifolates, including trimethoprim (TMP) and a series of propargyl-linked analogues, bind dihydrofolate reductase from Bacillus anthracis (BaDHFR) with lower affinity than is typical in other bacterial species. To guide lead optimization for BaDHFR, we explored a new approach to determine structure-activity relationships whereby the enzyme is altered and the analogues remain constant, essentially reversing the standard experimental design. Active site mutants of the enzyme, Ba(F96I)DHFR and Ba(Y102F)DHFR, were created and evaluated with enzyme inhibition assays and crystal structures. The affinities of the antifolates increase up to 60-fold with the Y102F mutant, suggesting that interactions with Tyr 102 are critical for affinity. Crystal structures of the enzymes bound to TMP and propargyl-linked inhibitors reveal the basis of TMP resistance and illuminate the influence of Tyr 102 on the lipophilic linker between the pyrimidine and aryl rings. Two new inhibitors test and validate these conclusions and show the value of the technique for providing new directions during lead optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Beierlein
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, 69 N Eagleville Road, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
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Gkountelias K, Papadokostaki M, Javitch JA, Liapakis G. Exploring the binding site crevice of a family B G protein-coupled receptor, the type 1 corticotropin releasing factor receptor. Mol Pharmacol 2010; 78:785-93. [PMID: 20664003 DOI: 10.1124/mol.110.065474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Family B of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) is composed of receptors that bind peptides, such as secretin, glucagon, parathyroid hormone, and corticotropin releasing factor (CRF), which play critical physiological roles. These receptors, like all GPCRs, share a common structural motif of seven membrane-spanning segments, which have been proposed to bind small ligands, such as antalarmin, a nonpeptide antagonist of the type 1 receptor for CRF (CRF(1)). This leads to the hypothesis that as for family A GPCRs, the binding sites of small ligands for family B GPCRs are on the surface of a water-accessible crevice, the binding-site crevice, which is formed by the membrane-spanning segments and extends from the extracellular surface of the receptor into the plane of the membrane. To test this hypothesis we have begun to obtain structural information about family B GPCRs, using as a prototype the CRF(1), by determining the ability of sulfhydryl-specific methanethiosulfonate derivatives, such as the methanethiosulfonate-ethylammonium (MTSEA), to react with CRF(1) and thus irreversibly inhibit (125)I-Tyr(0)-sauvagine binding. We found that MTSEA inhibited (125)I-Tyr(0)-sauvagine binding to CRF(1) and that antalarmin protected against this irreversible inhibition. To identify the susceptible cysteine(s), we mutated, one at a time, four endogenous cysteines to serine. Mutation to serine of Cys211, Cys233, or Cys364 decreased the susceptibility of sauvagine binding to irreversible inhibition by MTSEA. Thus, Cys211, Cys233, and Cys364 at the cytoplasmic ends of the third, fourth, and seventh membrane-spanning segments, respectively, are exposed in the binding site crevice of CRF(1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kostas Gkountelias
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion 71003, Crete, Greece
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Allosteric antagonist binding sites in class B GPCRs: corticotropin receptor 1. J Comput Aided Mol Des 2010; 24:659-74. [PMID: 20512399 DOI: 10.1007/s10822-010-9364-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2010] [Accepted: 05/03/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The 41 amino acid neuropeptide, corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and its associated receptors CRF(1)-R and CRF(2)-R have been targeted for treating stress related disorders. Both CRF(1)-R and CRF(2)-R belong to the class B G-protein coupled receptors for which little information is known regarding the small molecule antagonist binding characteristics. However, it has been shown recently that different non-peptide allosteric ligands stabilize different receptor conformations for CRF(1)-R and hence an understanding of the ligand induced receptor conformational changes is important in the pharmacology of ligand binding. In this study, we modeled the receptor and identified the binding sites of representative small molecule allosteric antagonists for CRF(1)-R. The predicted binding sites of the investigated compounds are located within the transmembrane (TM) domain encompassing TM helices 3, 5 and 6. The docked compounds show strong interactions with H228 on TM3 and M305 on TM5 that have also been implicated in the binding by site directed mutation studies. H228 forms a hydrogen bond of varied strengths with all the antagonists in this study and this is in agreement with the decreased binding affinity of several compounds with H228F mutation. Also mutating M305 to Ile showed a sharp decrease in the calculated binding energy whereas the binding energy loss on M305 to Leu was less significant. These results are in qualitative agreement with the decrease in binding affinities observed experimentally. We further predicted the conformational changes in CRF(1)-R induced by the allosteric antagonist NBI-27914. Movement of TM helices 3 and 5 are dominant and generates three degenerate conformational states two of which are separated by an energy barrier from the third, when bound to NBI-27914. Binding of NBI-27914 was predicted to improve the interaction of the ligand with M305 and also enhanced the aromatic stacking between the ligand and F232 on TM3. A virtual ligand screening of ~13,000 compounds seeded with ~350 CRF(1)-R specific active antagonists performed on the NBI-27914 stabilized conformation of CRF(1)-R yielded a 44% increase in enrichment compared to the initially modeled receptor conformation at a 10% cutoff. The NBI-27914 stabilized conformation also shows a high enrichment for high affinity antagonists compared to the weaker ones. Thus, the conformational changes induced by NBI-27914 improved the ligand screening efficiency of the CRF(1)-R model and demonstrate a generalized application of the method in drug discovery.
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Nikiforovich GV, Taylor CM, Marshall GR, Baranski TJ. Modeling the possible conformations of the extracellular loops in G-protein-coupled receptors. Proteins 2010; 78:271-85. [PMID: 19731375 DOI: 10.1002/prot.22537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
This study presents the results of a de novo approach modeling possible conformational dynamics of the extracellular (EC) loops in G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), specifically in bovine rhodopsin (bRh), squid rhodopsin (sRh), human beta-2 adrenergic receptor (beta2AR), turkey beta-1 adrenergic receptor (beta1AR), and human A2 adenosine receptor (A2AR). The approach deliberately sacrificed a detailed description of any particular 3D structure of the loops in GPCRs in favor of a less precise description of many possible structures. Despite this, the approach found ensembles of the low-energy conformers of the EC loops that contained structures close to the available X-ray snapshots. For the smaller EC1 and EC3 loops (6-11 residues), our results were comparable with the best recent results obtained by other authors using much more sophisticated techniques. For the larger EC2 loops (25-34 residues), our results consistently yielded structures significantly closer to the X-ray snapshots than the results of the other authors for loops of similar size. The results suggested possible large-scale movements of the EC loops in GPCRs that might determine their conformational dynamics. The approach was also validated by accurately reproducing the docking poses for low-molecular-weight ligands in beta2AR, beta1AR, and A2AR, demonstrating the possible influence of the conformations of the EC loops on the binding sites of ligands. The approach correctly predicted the system of disulfide bridges between the EC loops in A2AR and elucidated the probable pathways for forming this system.
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