1
|
Lv X, Zhou P, Qiao X, Li Y, Yang X, Wang J, He X, Su R. Designing Chromane Derivatives as α 2A-Adrenoceptor Selective Agonists via Conformation Constraint. J Med Chem 2024. [PMID: 38889119 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c01239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Enhancing the selectivity of alpha2-adrenoceptor (α2A-AR) agonists remains an unresolved issue. Herein, we reported the design of an α2A-AR agonist using the conformation constraint method, beginning with medetomidine. The structure-activity relationship indicated that the 8-substituent of chromane derivatives exerted the most pronounced effect on α2A-AR agonistic activity. Compounds A9 and B9 were identified as the most promising, exhibiting EC50 values of 0.78 and 0.23 nM, respectively. Their selectivity indexes surpassed dexmedetomidine (DMED) by 10-80 fold. In vivo studies demonstrated that both A9 and B9 dose-dependently increased the loss of righting reflex in mice, with ED50 values of 1.54 and 0.138 mg/kg, respectively. Binding mode calculations and mutation studies suggested the indispensability of the hydrogen bond between ASP1283.32 and α2A-AR agonist. In particular, A9 and B9 showed no dual reverse pharmacological effect, a characteristic exhibited by DMED in α2A-AR activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xucheng Lv
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Haidian District, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Peilan Zhou
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Haidian District, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Xuehong Qiao
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Haidian District, Beijing 100850, China
- Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yulei Li
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Haidian District, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Xingxing Yang
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Haidian District, Beijing 100850, China
- Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jiaqi Wang
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Haidian District, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Xinhua He
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Haidian District, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Ruibin Su
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Haidian District, Beijing 100850, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Maaliki D, Jaffa AA, Nasser S, Sahebkar A, Eid AH. Adrenoceptor Desensitization: Current Understanding of Mechanisms. Pharmacol Rev 2024; 76:358-387. [PMID: 38697858 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.123.000831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) transduce a wide range of extracellular signals. They are key players in the majority of biologic functions including vision, olfaction, chemotaxis, and immunity. However, as essential as most of them are to body function and homeostasis, overactivation of GPCRs has been implicated in many pathologic diseases such as cancer, asthma, and heart failure (HF). Therefore, an important feature of G protein signaling systems is the ability to control GPCR responsiveness, and one key process to control overstimulation involves initiating receptor desensitization. A number of steps are appreciated in the desensitization process, including cell surface receptor phosphorylation, internalization, and downregulation. Rapid or short-term desensitization occurs within minutes and involves receptor phosphorylation via the action of intracellular protein kinases, the binding of β-arrestins, and the consequent uncoupling of GPCRs from their cognate heterotrimeric G proteins. On the other hand, long-term desensitization occurs over hours to days and involves receptor downregulation or a decrease in cell surface receptor protein level. Of the proteins involved in this biologic phenomenon, β-arrestins play a particularly significant role in both short- and long-term desensitization mechanisms. In addition, β-arrestins are involved in the phenomenon of biased agonism, where the biased ligand preferentially activates one of several downstream signaling pathways, leading to altered cellular responses. In this context, this review discusses the different patterns of desensitization of the α 1-, α 2- and the β adrenoceptors and highlights the role of β-arrestins in regulating physiologic responsiveness through desensitization and biased agonism. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: A sophisticated network of proteins orchestrates the molecular regulation of GPCR activity. Adrenoceptors are GPCRs that play vast roles in many physiological processes. Without tightly controlled desensitization of these receptors, homeostatic imbalance may ensue, thus precipitating various diseases. Here, we critically appraise the mechanisms implicated in adrenoceptor desensitization. A better understanding of these mechanisms helps identify new druggable targets within the GPCR desensitization machinery and opens exciting therapeutic fronts in the treatment of several pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dina Maaliki
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon (D.M.); School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina (A.A.J.); Keele University, Staffordshire, United Kingdom (S.N.); Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran (A.S.); Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran (A.S.); and Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar (A.H.E.)
| | - Aneese A Jaffa
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon (D.M.); School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina (A.A.J.); Keele University, Staffordshire, United Kingdom (S.N.); Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran (A.S.); Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran (A.S.); and Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar (A.H.E.)
| | - Suzanne Nasser
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon (D.M.); School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina (A.A.J.); Keele University, Staffordshire, United Kingdom (S.N.); Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran (A.S.); Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran (A.S.); and Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar (A.H.E.)
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon (D.M.); School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina (A.A.J.); Keele University, Staffordshire, United Kingdom (S.N.); Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran (A.S.); Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran (A.S.); and Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar (A.H.E.)
| | - Ali H Eid
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon (D.M.); School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina (A.A.J.); Keele University, Staffordshire, United Kingdom (S.N.); Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran (A.S.); Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran (A.S.); and Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar (A.H.E.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Falsaperla R, Sortino V, Marino SD, Collotta AD, Gammeri C, Sipala FM, Volti GL, Ruggieri M, Ronsisvalle S. Molecular Dynamic Simulations to Determine Individualized Therapy: Tetrabenazine for the GNAO1 Encephalopathy E246K Variant. Mol Diagn Ther 2024; 28:329-337. [PMID: 38581611 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-024-00706-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION GNAO1 encephalopathy is characterized by severe hypotonia, psychomotor retardation, epilepsy, and movement disorders. Genetic variations in GNAO1 have been linked to neurological symptoms including movement disorders like dystonia. The correlation between the E246K mutation in the Gα subunit and aberrant signal transduction of G proteins has been established but no data are reported regarding the efficacy of medical treatment with tetrabenazine. METHODS Molecular modeling studies were performed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying this mutation. We developed drug efficacy models using molecular dynamic simulations that replicated the behavior of wild-type and mutated proteins in the presence or absence of ligands. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION We demonstrated that the absence of the mutation leads to normal signal transduction upon receptor activation by the endogenous ligand, but not in the presence of tetrabenazine. In contrast, the presence of the mutation resulted in abnormal signal transduction in the presence of the endogenous ligand, which was corrected by the drug tetrabenazine. Tetrabenazine was identified as a promising therapeutic option for pediatric patients suffering from encephalopathy due to an E246K mutation in the GNAO1 gene validated through molecular dynamics. This is a potential first example of the use of this technique in a rare neurological pediatric disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Falsaperla
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Neonatal Accompaniment Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "Rodolico-San Marco", San Marco Hospital, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
- Unit of Clinical Paediatrics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico, "Rodolico-San Marco", San Marco Hospital, Catania, Italy.
- Pediatric Clinic, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Sortino
- Unit of Clinical Paediatrics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico, "Rodolico-San Marco", San Marco Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - Simona Domenica Marino
- Unit of Clinical Paediatrics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico, "Rodolico-San Marco", San Marco Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - Ausilia Desiree Collotta
- Unit of Clinical Paediatrics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico, "Rodolico-San Marco", San Marco Hospital, Catania, Italy
- Postgraduate Training Program in Pediatrics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Carmela Gammeri
- Postgraduate Training Program in Pediatrics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Federica Maria Sipala
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Li Volti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 87, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Martino Ruggieri
- Unit of Clinical Pediatrics, Unit of Rare Diseases, AOU "Policlinico", PO "G. Rodolico", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Simone Ronsisvalle
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wang WW, Ji SY, Zhang W, Zhang J, Cai C, Hu R, Zang SK, Miao L, Xu H, Chen LN, Yang Z, Guo J, Qin J, Shen DD, Liang P, Zhang Y, Zhang Y. Structure-based design of non-hypertrophic apelin receptor modulator. Cell 2024; 187:1460-1475.e20. [PMID: 38428423 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.02.004] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Apelin is a key hormone in cardiovascular homeostasis that activates the apelin receptor (APLNR), which is regarded as a promising therapeutic target for cardiovascular disease. However, adverse effects through the β-arrestin pathway limit its pharmacological use. Here, we report cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of APLNR-Gi1 complexes bound to three agonists with divergent signaling profiles. Combined with functional assays, we have identified "twin hotspots" in APLNR as key determinants for signaling bias, guiding the rational design of two exclusive G-protein-biased agonists WN353 and WN561. Cryo-EM structures of WN353- and WN561-stimulated APLNR-G protein complexes further confirm that the designed ligands adopt the desired poses. Pathophysiological experiments have provided evidence that WN561 demonstrates superior therapeutic effects against cardiac hypertrophy and reduced adverse effects compared with the established APLNR agonists. In summary, our designed APLNR modulator may facilitate the development of next-generation cardiovascular medications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Wei Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China; Center for Structural Pharmacology and Therapeutics Development, Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China
| | - Su-Yu Ji
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China; Center for Structural Pharmacology and Therapeutics Development, Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China
| | - Wenjia Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Receptors Research, Beijing 100191, China; Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Junxia Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Receptors Research, Beijing 100191, China; Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Beijing 100191, China; Department of Cardiology and Institute of Vascular Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, NHC Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Molecular Biology and Regulatory Peptides, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Chenxi Cai
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Rubi Hu
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Shao-Kun Zang
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Luwei Miao
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Haomang Xu
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China; Center for Structural Pharmacology and Therapeutics Development, Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China
| | - Li-Nan Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Zongkuai Yang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310029, China
| | - Jia Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Jiao Qin
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Dan-Dan Shen
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Ping Liang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310029, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Receptors Research, Beijing 100191, China; Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China; Center for Structural Pharmacology and Therapeutics Development, Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sun S, Li P, Wang J, Zhao D, Yang T, Zhou P, Su R, Zheng Z, Li S. Novel Scaffold Agonists of the α 2A Adrenergic Receptor Identified via Ensemble-Based Strategy. Molecules 2024; 29:1097. [PMID: 38474611 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29051097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The α2A adrenergic receptor (α2A-AR) serves as a critical molecular target for sedatives and analgesics. However, α2A-AR ligands with an imidazole ring also interact with an imidazoline receptor as well as other proteins and lead to undesirable effects, motivating us to develop more novel scaffold α2A-AR ligands. For this purpose, we employed an ensemble-based ligand discovery strategy, integrating long-term molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and virtual screening, to identify new potential α2A-AR agonists with novel scaffold. Our results showed that compounds SY-15 and SY-17 exhibited significant biological effects in the preliminary evaluation of protein kinase A (PKA) redistribution assays. They also reduced levels of intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in a dose-dependent manner. Upon treatment of the cells with 100 μM concentrations of SY-15 and SY-17, there was a respective decrease in the intracellular cAMP levels by 63.43% and 53.83%. Subsequent computational analysis was conducted to elucidate the binding interactions of SY-15 and SY-17 with the α2A-AR. The binding free energies of SY-15 and SY-17 calculated by MD simulations were -45.93 and -71.97 kcal/mol. MD simulations also revealed that both compounds act as bitopic agonists, occupying the orthosteric site and a novel exosite of the receptor simultaneously. Our findings of integrative computational and experimental approaches could offer the potential to enhance ligand affinity and selectivity through dual-site occupancy and provide a novel direction for the rational design of sedatives and analgesics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiyang Sun
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Pengyun Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Jiaqi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Dongsheng Zhao
- Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Tingting Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Peilan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Ruibin Su
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Zhibing Zheng
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Song Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Abdul-Ridha A, de Zhang LA, Betrie AH, Deluigi M, Vaid TM, Whitehead A, Zhang Y, Davis B, Harris R, Simmonite H, Hubbard RE, Gooley PR, Plückthun A, Bathgate RA, Chalmers DK, Scott DJ. Identification of a Novel Subtype-Selective α 1B-Adrenoceptor Antagonist. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:671-684. [PMID: 38238043 PMCID: PMC10854767 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
α1A-, α1B-, and α1D-adrenoceptors (α1-ARs) are members of the adrenoceptor G protein-coupled receptor family that are activated by adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline. α1-ARs are clinically targeted using antagonists that have minimal subtype selectivity, such as prazosin and tamsulosin, to treat hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia, respectively. Abundant expression of α1-ARs in the heart and central nervous system (CNS) makes these receptors potential targets for the treatment of cardiovascular and CNS disorders, such as heart failure, epilepsy, and Alzheimer's disease. Our understanding of the precise physiological roles of α1-ARs, however, and their involvement in disease has been hindered by the lack of sufficiently subtype-selective tool compounds, especially for α1B-AR. Here, we report the discovery of 4-[(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]-6-methyl-2H-chromen-2-one (Cpd1), as an α1B-AR antagonist that has 10-15-fold selectivity over α1A-AR and α1D-AR. Through computational and site-directed mutagenesis studies, we have identified the binding site of Cpd1 in α1B-AR and propose the molecular basis of α1B-AR selectivity, where the nonconserved V19745.52 residue plays a major role, with contributions from L3146.55 within the α1B-AR pocket. By exploring the structure-activity relationships of Cpd1 at α1B-AR, we have also identified 3-[(cyclohexylamino)methyl]-6-methylquinolin-2(1H)-one (Cpd24), which has a stronger binding affinity than Cpd1, albeit with reduced selectivity for α1B-AR. Cpd1 and Cpd24 represent potential leads for α1B-AR-selective drug discovery and novel tool molecules to further study the physiology of α1-ARs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Abdul-Ridha
- The
Florey Institute, The University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Lazarus A. de Zhang
- The
Florey Institute, The University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | | | - Mattia Deluigi
- Department
of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tasneem M. Vaid
- The
Florey Institute, The University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- The
Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
- The Bio21
Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Alice Whitehead
- The
Florey Institute, The University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Yifan Zhang
- The
Florey Institute, The University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Ben Davis
- Vernalis
(R&D) Ltd, Granta Park, Cambridge CB21 6GB, U.K.
| | - Richard Harris
- Vernalis
(R&D) Ltd, Granta Park, Cambridge CB21 6GB, U.K.
| | | | - Roderick E. Hubbard
- Vernalis
(R&D) Ltd, Granta Park, Cambridge CB21 6GB, U.K.
- Department
of Chemistry, University of York, York YO10 5DD, U.K.
| | - Paul R. Gooley
- The
Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
- The Bio21
Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Andreas Plückthun
- Department
of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ross A.D. Bathgate
- The
Florey Institute, The University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- The
Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - David K. Chalmers
- Medicinal
Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Daniel J. Scott
- The
Florey Institute, The University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- The
Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Xu X, Qiu L, Zhang M, Wu G. Segregation of nascent GPCRs in the ER-to-Golgi transport by CCHCR1 via direct interaction. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261685. [PMID: 38230433 PMCID: PMC10912811 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261685] [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: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute the largest superfamily of cell surface signaling proteins that share a common structural topology. When compared with agonist-induced internalization, how GPCRs are sorted and delivered to functional destinations after synthesis in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is much less well understood. Here, we demonstrate that depletion of coiled-coil α-helical rod protein 1 (CCHCR1) by siRNA and CRISPR-Cas9 significantly inhibits surface expression and signaling of α2A-adrenergic receptor (α2A-AR; also known as ADRA2A), without affecting α2B-AR. Further studies show that CCHCR1 depletion specifically impedes α2A-AR export from the ER to the Golgi, but not from the Golgi to the surface. We also demonstrate that CCHCR1 selectively interacts with α2A-AR. The interaction is mediated through multiple domains of both proteins and is ionic in nature. Moreover, mutating CCHCR1-binding motifs significantly attenuates ER-to-Golgi export, surface expression and signaling of α2A-AR. Collectively, these data reveal a novel function for CCHCR1 in intracellular protein trafficking, indicate that closely related GPCRs can be sorted into distinct ER-to-Golgi transport routes by CCHCR1 via direct interaction, and provide important insights into segregation and anterograde delivery of nascent GPCR members.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Lifen Qiu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Maoxiang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Guangyu Wu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
de Cássia Collaço R, Lammens M, Blevins C, Rodgers K, Gurau A, Yamauchi S, Kim C, Forrester J, Liu E, Ha J, Mei Y, Boehm C, Wohler E, Sobreira N, Rowe PC, Valle D, Brock MV, Bosmans F. Anxiety and dysautonomia symptoms in patients with a Na V1.7 mutation and the potential benefits of low-dose short-acting guanfacine. Clin Auton Res 2024; 34:191-201. [PMID: 38064009 DOI: 10.1007/s10286-023-01004-1] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Guanfacine is an α2A-adrenergic receptor agonist, FDA-approved to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and high blood pressure, typically as an extended-release formulation up to 7 mg/day. In our dysautonomia clinic, we observed that off-label use of short-acting guanfacine at 1 mg/day facilitated symptom relief in two families with multiple members presenting with severe generalized anxiety. We also noted anecdotal improvements in associated dysautonomia symptoms such as hyperhidrosis, cognitive impairment, and palpitations. We postulated that a genetic deficit existed in these patients that might augment guanfacine susceptibility. METHODS We used whole-exome sequencing to identify mutations in patients with shared generalized anxiety and dysautonomia symptoms. Guanfacine-induced changes in the function of voltage-gated Na+ channels were investigated using voltage-clamp electrophysiology. RESULTS Whole-exome sequencing uncovered the p.I739V mutation in SCN9A in the proband of two nonrelated families. Moreover, guanfacine inhibited ionic currents evoked by wild-type and mutant NaV1.7 encoded by SCN9A, as well as other NaV channel subtypes to a varying degree. CONCLUSION Our study provides further evidence for a possible pathophysiological role of NaV1.7 in anxiety and dysautonomia. Combined with off-target effects on NaV channel function, daily administration of 1 mg short-acting guanfacine may be sufficient to normalize NaV channel mutation-induced changes in sympathetic activity, perhaps aided by partial inhibition of NaV1.7 or other channel subtypes. In a broader context, expanding genetic and functional data about ion channel aberrations may enable the prospect of stratifying patients in which mutation-induced increased sympathetic tone normalization by guanfacine can support treatment strategies for anxiety and dysautonomia symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rita de Cássia Collaço
- Molecular Physiology and Neurophysics Group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maxime Lammens
- Molecular Physiology and Neurophysics Group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Carley Blevins
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kristen Rodgers
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Andrei Gurau
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Suguru Yamauchi
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Christine Kim
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jeannine Forrester
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Edward Liu
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jinny Ha
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yuping Mei
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Corrine Boehm
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Elizabeth Wohler
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nara Sobreira
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Peter C Rowe
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - David Valle
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Malcolm V Brock
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Frank Bosmans
- Molecular Physiology and Neurophysics Group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mastos C, Xu X, Keen AC, Halls ML. Signalling of Adrenoceptors: Canonical Pathways and New Paradigms. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38227198 DOI: 10.1007/164_2023_704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
The concept of G protein-coupled receptors initially arose from studies of the β-adrenoceptor, adenylyl cyclase, and cAMP signalling pathway. Since then both canonical G protein-coupled receptor signalling pathways and emerging paradigms in receptor signalling have been defined by experiments focused on adrenoceptors. Here, we discuss the evidence for G protein coupling specificity of the nine adrenoceptor subtypes. We summarise the ability of each of the adrenoceptors to activate proximal signalling mediators including cAMP, calcium, mitogen-activated protein kinases, and protein kinase C pathways. Finally, we highlight the importance of precise spatial and temporal control of adrenoceptor signalling that is controlled by the localisation of receptors at intracellular membranes and in larger protein complexes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chantel Mastos
- Drug Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Xiaomeng Xu
- Drug Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Alastair C Keen
- Drug Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Michelle L Halls
- Drug Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lee KH, Manning JJ, Javitch J, Shi L. A Novel "Activation Switch" Motif Common to All Aminergic Receptors. J Chem Inf Model 2023; 63:5001-5017. [PMID: 37540602 PMCID: PMC10695015 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.3c00732] [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] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Aminergic receptors are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that transduce signals from small endogenous biogenic amines to regulate intracellular signaling pathways. Agonist binding in the ligand binding pocket on the extracellular side opens and prepares a cavity on the intracellular face of the receptors to interact with and activate G proteins and β-arrestins. Here, by reviewing and analyzing all available aminergic receptor structures, we seek to identify activation-related conformational changes that are independent of the specific scaffold of the bound agonist, which we define as "activation conformational changes" (ACCs). While some common intracellular ACCs have been well-documented, identifying common extracellular ACCs, including those in the ligand binding pocket, is complicated by local adjustments to different ligand scaffolds. Our analysis shows no common ACCs at the extracellular ends of the transmembrane helices. Furthermore, the restricted access to the ligand binding pocket identified previously in some receptors is not universal. Notably, the Trp6.48 toggle switch and the Pro5.50-Ile3.40-Phe6.44 (PIF) motif at the bottom of the ligand binding pocket have previously been proposed to mediate the conformational consequences of ligand binding to the intracellular side of the receptors. Our analysis shows that common ACCs in the ligand binding pocket are associated with the PIF motif and nearby residues, including Trp6.48, but fails to support a shared rotamer toggle associated with activation. However, we identify two common rearrangements between the extracellular and middle subsegments, and propose a novel "activation switch" motif common to all aminergic receptors. This motif includes the middle subsegments of transmembrane helices 3, 5, and 6 and integrates both the PIF motif and Trp6.48.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuo Hao Lee
- Computational Chemistry and Molecular Biophysics Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse – Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Jamie J. Manning
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Jonathan Javitch
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Lei Shi
- Computational Chemistry and Molecular Biophysics Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse – Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Toyoda Y, Zhu A, Kong F, Shan S, Zhao J, Wang N, Sun X, Zhang L, Yan C, Kobilka BK, Liu X. Structural basis of α 1A-adrenergic receptor activation and recognition by an extracellular nanobody. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3655. [PMID: 37339967 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39310-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The α1A-adrenergic receptor (α1AAR) belongs to the family of G protein-coupled receptors that respond to adrenaline and noradrenaline. α1AAR is involved in smooth muscle contraction and cognitive function. Here, we present three cryo-electron microscopy structures of human α1AAR bound to the endogenous agonist noradrenaline, its selective agonist oxymetazoline, and the antagonist tamsulosin, with resolutions range from 2.9 Å to 3.5 Å. Our active and inactive α1AAR structures reveal the activation mechanism and distinct ligand binding modes for noradrenaline compared with other adrenergic receptor subtypes. In addition, we identified a nanobody that preferentially binds to the extracellular vestibule of α1AAR when bound to the selective agonist oxymetazoline. These results should facilitate the design of more selective therapeutic drugs targeting both orthosteric and allosteric sites in this receptor family.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Toyoda
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Institute for Advanced Study, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan.
| | - Angqi Zhu
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Fang Kong
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Sisi Shan
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- NexVac Research Center, Comprehensive AIDS Research Center, Center for Infectious Disease Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Jiawei Zhao
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Nan Wang
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Xiaoou Sun
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Linqi Zhang
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- NexVac Research Center, Comprehensive AIDS Research Center, Center for Infectious Disease Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Chuangye Yan
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
| | - Brian K Kobilka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
| | - Xiangyu Liu
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Hegron A, Peach CJ, Tonello R, Seemann P, Teng S, Latorre R, Huebner H, Weikert D, Rientjes J, Veldhuis NA, Poole DP, Jensen DD, Thomsen ARB, Schmidt BL, Imlach WL, Gmeiner P, Bunnett NW. Therapeutic antagonism of the neurokinin 1 receptor in endosomes provides sustained pain relief. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2220979120. [PMID: 37216510 PMCID: PMC10235985 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2220979120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The hypothesis that sustained G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling from endosomes mediates pain is based on studies with endocytosis inhibitors and lipid-conjugated or nanoparticle-encapsulated antagonists targeted to endosomes. GPCR antagonists that reverse sustained endosomal signaling and nociception are needed. However, the criteria for rational design of such compounds are ill-defined. Moreover, the role of natural GPCR variants, which exhibit aberrant signaling and endosomal trafficking, in maintaining pain is unknown. Herein, substance P (SP) was found to evoke clathrin-mediated assembly of endosomal signaling complexes comprising neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1R), Gαq/i, and βarrestin-2. Whereas the FDA-approved NK1R antagonist aprepitant induced a transient disruption of endosomal signals, analogs of netupitant designed to penetrate membranes and persist in acidic endosomes through altered lipophilicity and pKa caused sustained inhibition of endosomal signals. When injected intrathecally to target spinal NK1R+ve neurons in knockin mice expressing human NK1R, aprepitant transiently inhibited nociceptive responses to intraplantar injection of capsaicin. Conversely, netupitant analogs had more potent, efficacious, and sustained antinociceptive effects. Mice expressing C-terminally truncated human NK1R, corresponding to a natural variant with aberrant signaling and trafficking, displayed attenuated SP-evoked excitation of spinal neurons and blunted nociceptive responses to SP. Thus, sustained antagonism of the NK1R in endosomes correlates with long-lasting antinociception, and domains within the C-terminus of the NK1R are necessary for the full pronociceptive actions of SP. The results support the hypothesis that endosomal signaling of GPCRs mediates nociception and provides insight into strategies for antagonizing GPCRs in intracellular locations for the treatment of diverse diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alan Hegron
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Pain Research Center, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
| | - Chloe J. Peach
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Pain Research Center, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
| | - Raquel Tonello
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Pain Research Center, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
| | - Philipp Seemann
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Shavonne Teng
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Pain Research Center, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
| | - Rocco Latorre
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Pain Research Center, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
| | - Harald Huebner
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Dorothee Weikert
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jeanette Rientjes
- Gene Modification Platform, Monash University, Clayton, VIC3168, Australia
| | - Nicholas A. Veldhuis
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC3052, Australia
| | - Daniel P. Poole
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC3052, Australia
| | - Dane D. Jensen
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Pain Research Center, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- NYU Dentistry Translational Research Center, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
| | - Alex R. B. Thomsen
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Pain Research Center, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
| | - Brian L. Schmidt
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Pain Research Center, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- NYU Dentistry Translational Research Center, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
| | - Wendy L. Imlach
- Department of Physiology and Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, VIC3800, Australia
| | - Peter Gmeiner
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Nigel W. Bunnett
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Pain Research Center, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Fragola NR, Brems BM, Mukherjee M, Cui M, Booth RG. Conformationally Selective 2-Aminotetralin Ligands Targeting the alpha2A- and alpha2C-Adrenergic Receptors. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:1884-1895. [PMID: 37104867 PMCID: PMC10628895 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Many important physiological processes are mediated by alpha2A- and alpha2C-adrenergic receptors (α2Rs), a subtype of class A G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). However, α2R signaling is poorly understood, and there are few approved medications targeting these receptors. Drug discovery aimed at α2Rs is complicated by the high degree of binding pocket homology between α2AR and α2CR, which confounds ligand-mediated selective activation or inactivation of signaling associated with a particular subtype. Meanwhile, α2R signaling is complex and it is reported that activating α2AR is beneficial in many clinical contexts, while activating α2CR signaling may be detrimental to these positive effects. Here, we report on a novel 5-substituted-2-aminotetralin (5-SAT) chemotype that, depending on substitution, has diverse pharmacological activities at α2Rs. Certain lead 5-SAT analogues act as partial agonists at α2ARs, while functioning as inverse agonists at α2CRs, a novel pharmacological profile. Leads demonstrate high potency (e.g., EC50 < 2 nM) at the α2AR and α2CRs regarding Gαi-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase and production of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). To help understand the molecular basis of 5-SAT α2R multifaceted functional activity, α2AR and α2CR molecular models were built from the crystal structures and 1 μs molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and molecular docking experiments were performed for a lead 5-SAT with α2AR agonist and α2CR inverse agonist activity, i.e., (2S)-5-(2'-fluorophenyl)-N,N-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-2-amine (FPT), in comparison to the FDA-approved (for opioid withdrawal symptoms) α2AR/α2CR agonist lofexidine. Results reveal several interactions between FPT and α2AR and α2CR amino acids that may impact the functional activity. The computational data in conjunction with experimental in vitro affinity and function results provide information to understand ligand stabilization of functionally distinct GPCR conformations regarding α2AR and α2CRs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas R. Fragola
- Center
for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry
& Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, 208, Mugar Life Sciences Building, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Brittany M. Brems
- Center
for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry
& Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, 208, Mugar Life Sciences Building, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Munmun Mukherjee
- Center
for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry
& Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, 208, Mugar Life Sciences Building, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Meng Cui
- Center
for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry
& Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, 208, Mugar Life Sciences Building, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Raymond G. Booth
- Center
for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry
& Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, 208, Mugar Life Sciences Building, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Biggane JP, Xu K, Goldenstein BL, Davis KL, Luger EJ, Davis BA, Jurgens CWD, Perez DM, Porter JE, Doze VA. Pharmacological characterization of the α 2A-adrenergic receptor inhibiting rat hippocampal CA3 epileptiform activity: comparison of ligand efficacy and potency. J Recept Signal Transduct Res 2022; 42:580-587. [PMID: 35984443 DOI: 10.1080/10799893.2022.2110896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The mechanism underlying the antiepileptic actions of norepinephrine (NE) is unclear with conflicting results. Our objectives are to conclusively delineate the specific adrenergic receptor (AR) involved in attenuating hippocampal CA3 epileptiform activity and assess compounds for lead drug development. We utilized the picrotoxin model of seizure generation in rat brain slices using electrophysiological recordings. Epinephrine (EPI) reduced epileptiform burst frequency in a concentration-dependent manner. To identify the specific receptor involved in this response, the equilibrium dissociation constants were determined for a panel of ligands and compared with established binding values for α1, α2, and other receptor subtypes. Correlation and slope of unity were found for the α2A-AR, but not other receptors. Effects of different chemical classes of α-AR agonists at inhibiting epileptiform activity by potency (pEC50) and relative efficacy (RE) were determined. Compared with NE (pEC50, 6.20; RE, 100%), dexmedetomidine, an imidazoline (pEC50, 8.59; RE, 67.1%), and guanabenz, a guanidine (pEC50, 7.94; RE, 37.9%), exhibited the highest potency (pEC50). In contrast, the catecholamines, EPI (pEC50, 6.95; RE, 120%) and α-methyl-NE (pEC50, 6.38; RE, 116%) were the most efficacious. These findings confirm that CA3 epileptiform activity is mediated solely by α2A-ARs without activation of other receptor systems. These findings suggest a pharmacotherapeutic target for treating epilepsy and highlight the need for selective and efficacious α2A-AR agonists that can cross the blood-brain barrier.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph P Biggane
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, USA
| | - Ke Xu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, USA
| | - Brianna L Goldenstein
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, USA
| | - Kylie L Davis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, USA
| | - Elizabeth J Luger
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, USA
| | - Bethany A Davis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, USA
| | - Chris W D Jurgens
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, USA
| | - Dianne M Perez
- Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - James E Porter
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, USA
| | - Van A Doze
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Fink EA, Xu J, Hübner H, Braz JM, Seemann P, Avet C, Craik V, Weikert D, Schmidt MF, Webb CM, Tolmachova NA, Moroz YS, Huang XP, Kalyanaraman C, Gahbauer S, Chen G, Liu Z, Jacobson MP, Irwin JJ, Bouvier M, Du Y, Shoichet BK, Basbaum AI, Gmeiner P. Structure-based discovery of nonopioid analgesics acting through the α 2A-adrenergic receptor. Science 2022; 377:eabn7065. [PMID: 36173843 PMCID: PMC10360211 DOI: 10.1126/science.abn7065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Because nonopioid analgesics are much sought after, we computationally docked more than 301 million virtual molecules against a validated pain target, the α2A-adrenergic receptor (α2AAR), seeking new α2AAR agonists chemotypes that lack the sedation conferred by known α2AAR drugs, such as dexmedetomidine. We identified 17 ligands with potencies as low as 12 nanomolar, many with partial agonism and preferential Gi and Go signaling. Experimental structures of α2AAR complexed with two of these agonists confirmed the docking predictions and templated further optimization. Several compounds, including the initial docking hit '9087 [mean effective concentration (EC50) of 52 nanomolar] and two analogs, '7075 and PS75 (EC50 4.1 and 4.8 nanomolar), exerted on-target analgesic activity in multiple in vivo pain models without sedation. These newly discovered agonists are interesting as therapeutic leads that lack the liabilities of opioids and the sedation of dexmedetomidine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elissa A. Fink
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Graduate Program in Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jun Xu
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Life and Health Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Harald Hübner
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Joao M. Braz
- Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Philipp Seemann
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Charlotte Avet
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Veronica Craik
- Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Dorothee Weikert
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Maximilian F. Schmidt
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Chase M. Webb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacogenomics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nataliya A. Tolmachova
- Enamine Ltd., 02094 Kyiv, Ukraine
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry and Petrochemistry, National Ukrainian Academy of Science, 02660 Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Yurii S. Moroz
- National Taras Shevchenko University of Kyiv, 01601 Kyiv, Ukraine
- Chemspace, Riga LV-1082, Latvia
| | - Xi-Ping Huang
- National Institute of Mental Health Psychoactive Drug Screening Program (NIMH PDSP), School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Chakrapani Kalyanaraman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Stefan Gahbauer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Geng Chen
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Life and Health Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China
| | - Zheng Liu
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Life and Health Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China
| | - Matthew P. Jacobson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - John J. Irwin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Michel Bouvier
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Yang Du
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Life and Health Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China
| | - Brian K. Shoichet
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Allan I. Basbaum
- Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Peter Gmeiner
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|