1
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Grätz L, Voss JH, Schulte G. Class-Wide Analysis of Frizzled-Dishevelled Interactions Using BRET Biosensors Reveals Functional Differences among Receptor Paralogs. ACS Sens 2024; 9:4626-4636. [PMID: 39213612 PMCID: PMC11443525 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.4c00806] [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] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Wingless/Int-1 (WNT) signaling is mediated by WNT binding to 10 Frizzleds (FZD1-10), which propagate the signal inside the cell by interacting with different transducers, most prominently the phosphoprotein Dishevelled (DVL). Despite recent progress, questions about WNT/FZD selectivity and paralog-dependent differences in the FZD/DVL interaction remain unanswered. Here, we present a class-wide analysis of the FZD/DVL interaction using the DEP domain of DVL as a proxy in bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) techniques. Most FZDs engage in a constitutive high-affinity interaction with DEP. Stimulation of unimolecular FZD/DEP BRET sensors with different ligands revealed that most paralogs are dynamic in the FZD/DEP interface, showing distinct profiles in terms of ligand selectivity and signal kinetics. This study underlines mechanistic differences in terms of how allosteric communication between FZDs and their main signal transducer DVL occurs. Moreover, the unimolecular sensors represent the first receptor-focused biosensors to surpass the requirements for high-throughput screening, facilitating FZD-targeted drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Grätz
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Biomedicum, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan H Voss
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Biomedicum, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Schulte
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Biomedicum, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Stockholm, Sweden
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2
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Faraji N, Ebadpour N, Abavisani M, Gorji A. Unlocking Hope: Therapeutic Advances and Approaches in Modulating the Wnt Pathway for Neurodegenerative Diseases. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04462-4. [PMID: 39313658 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04462-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are conditions characterized by sensory, motor, and cognitive impairments due to alterations in the structure and function of neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). Despite their widespread occurrence, the exact causes of NDs remain largely elusive, and existing treatments fall short in efficacy. The Wnt signaling pathway is an emerging molecular pathway that has been linked to the development and progression of various NDs. Wnt signaling governs numerous cellular processes, such as survival, polarity, proliferation, differentiation, migration, and fate specification, via a complex network of proteins. In the adult CNS, Wnt signaling regulates synaptic transmission, plasticity, memory formation, neurogenesis, neuroprotection, and neuroinflammation, all essential for maintaining neuronal function and integrity. Dysregulation of both canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling pathways contributes to neurodegeneration through various mechanisms, such as amyloid-β accumulation, tau protein hyperphosphorylation, dopaminergic neuron degeneration, and synaptic dysfunction, prompting investigations into Wnt modulation as a therapeutic target to restore neuronal function and prevent or delay neurodegenerative processes. Modulating Wnt signaling has the potential to restore neuronal function and impede or postpone neurodegenerative processes, offering a therapeutic approach for targeting NDs. In this article, the current knowledge about how Wnt signaling works in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease is discussed. Our study aims to explore the molecular mechanisms, recent discoveries, and challenges involved in developing Wnt-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navid Faraji
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Negar Ebadpour
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Abavisani
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ali Gorji
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Epilepsy Research Center, Münster University, Münster, Germany.
- Shefa Neuroscience Research Center, Khatam Alanbia Hospital, Tehran, Iran.
- Neurosurgery Department, Münster University, Münster, Germany.
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3
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Bous J, Kinsolving J, Grätz L, Scharf MM, Voss JH, Selcuk B, Adebali O, Schulte G. Structural basis of frizzled 7 activation and allosteric regulation. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7422. [PMID: 39198452 PMCID: PMC11358414 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51664-4] [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: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Frizzleds (ten paralogs: FZD1-10) belong to the class F of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), which remains poorly understood despite its crucial role in multiple key biological functions including embryonic development, stem cell regulation, and homeostasis in the adult. FZD7, one of the most studied members of the family, is more specifically involved in the migration of mesendoderm cells during the development and renewal of intestinal stem cells in adults. Moreover, FZD7 has been highlighted for its involvement in tumor development predominantly in the gastrointestinal tract. This study reports the structure of inactive FZD7, without any stabilizing mutations, determined by cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) at 1.9 Å resolution. We characterize a fluctuating water pocket in the core of the receptor important for FZD7 dynamics. Molecular dynamics simulations are used to investigate the temporal distribution of those water molecules and their importance for potential conformational changes in FZD7. Moreover, we identify lipids interacting with the receptor core and a conserved cholesterol-binding site, which displays a key role in FZD7 association with a transducer protein, Disheveled (DVL), and initiation of downstream signaling and signalosome formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Bous
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Julia Kinsolving
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lukas Grätz
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Magdalena M Scharf
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan Hendrik Voss
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Berkay Selcuk
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Ogün Adebali
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gunnar Schulte
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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4
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Schulte G, Scharf MM, Bous J, Voss JH, Grätz L, Kozielewicz P. Frizzleds act as dynamic pharmacological entities. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2024; 45:419-429. [PMID: 38594145 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2024.03.003] [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: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
The Frizzled family of transmembrane receptors (FZD1-10) belongs to the class F of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). FZDs bind to and are activated by Wingless/Int1 (WNT) proteins. The WNT/FZD signaling system regulates crucial aspects of developmental biology and stem-cell regulation. Dysregulation of WNT/FZD communication can lead to developmental defects and diseases such as cancer and fibrosis. Recent insight into the activation mechanisms of FZDs has underlined that protein dynamics and conserved microswitches are essential for FZD-mediated information flow and build the basis for targeting these receptors pharmacologically. In this review, we summarize recent advances in our understanding of FZD activation, and how novel concepts merge and collide with existing dogmas in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunnar Schulte
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, S-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Magdalena M Scharf
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, S-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Julien Bous
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, S-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan Hendrik Voss
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, S-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lukas Grätz
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, S-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pawel Kozielewicz
- Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, S-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
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5
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Kozma E, Kele P. Bioorthogonal Reactions in Bioimaging. Top Curr Chem (Cham) 2024; 382:7. [PMID: 38400853 PMCID: PMC10894152 DOI: 10.1007/s41061-024-00452-1] [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: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Visualization of biomolecules in their native environment or imaging-aided understanding of more complex biomolecular processes are one of the focus areas of chemical biology research, which requires selective, often site-specific labeling of targets. This challenging task is effectively addressed by bioorthogonal chemistry tools in combination with advanced synthetic biology methods. Today, the smart combination of the elements of the bioorthogonal toolbox allows selective installation of multiple markers to selected targets, enabling multicolor or multimodal imaging of biomolecules. Furthermore, recent developments in bioorthogonally applicable probe design that meet the growing demands of superresolution microscopy enable more complex questions to be addressed. These novel, advanced probes enable highly sensitive, low-background, single- or multiphoton imaging of biological species and events in live organisms at resolutions comparable to the size of the biomolecule of interest. Herein, the latest developments in bioorthogonal fluorescent probe design and labeling schemes will be discussed in the context of in cellulo/in vivo (multicolor and/or superresolved) imaging schemes. The second part focuses on the importance of genetically engineered minimal bioorthogonal tags, with a particular interest in site-specific protein tagging applications to answer biological questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eszter Kozma
- Chemical Biology Research Group, Institute of Organic Chemistry, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Magyar Tudósok Krt. 2, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
| | - Péter Kele
- Chemical Biology Research Group, Institute of Organic Chemistry, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Magyar Tudósok Krt. 2, Budapest, 1117, Hungary.
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6
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Scharf MM, Humphrys LJ, Berndt S, Di Pizio A, Lehmann J, Liebscher I, Nicoli A, Niv MY, Peri L, Schihada H, Schulte G. The dark sides of the GPCR tree - research progress on understudied GPCRs. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38339984 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16325] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
A large portion of the human GPCRome is still in the dark and understudied, consisting even of entire subfamilies of GPCRs such as odorant receptors, class A and C orphans, adhesion GPCRs, Frizzleds and taste receptors. However, it is undeniable that these GPCRs bring an untapped therapeutic potential that should be explored further. Open questions on these GPCRs span diverse topics such as deorphanisation, the development of tool compounds and tools for studying these GPCRs, as well as understanding basic signalling mechanisms. This review gives an overview of the current state of knowledge for each of the diverse subfamilies of understudied receptors regarding their physiological relevance, molecular mechanisms, endogenous ligands and pharmacological tools. Furthermore, it identifies some of the largest knowledge gaps that should be addressed in the foreseeable future and lists some general strategies that might be helpful in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena M Scharf
- Karolinska Institutet, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Sec. Receptor Biology & Signaling, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Laura J Humphrys
- Institute of Pharmacy, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sandra Berndt
- Rudolf Schönheimer Institute for Biochemistry, Molecular Biochemistry, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Antonella Di Pizio
- Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
- Chemoinformatics and Protein Modelling, Department of Molecular Life Science, School of Life Science, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Juliane Lehmann
- Rudolf Schönheimer Institute for Biochemistry, Molecular Biochemistry, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ines Liebscher
- Rudolf Schönheimer Institute for Biochemistry, Molecular Biochemistry, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Alessandro Nicoli
- Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
- Chemoinformatics and Protein Modelling, Department of Molecular Life Science, School of Life Science, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Masha Y Niv
- The Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Lior Peri
- The Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Hannes Schihada
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Gunnar Schulte
- Karolinska Institutet, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Sec. Receptor Biology & Signaling, Stockholm, Sweden
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7
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Bresinsky M, Shahraki A, Kolb P, Pockes S, Schihada H. Development of Fluorescent AF64394 Analogues Enables Real-Time Binding Studies for the Orphan Class A GPCR GPR3. J Med Chem 2023; 66:15025-15041. [PMID: 37907069 PMCID: PMC10641823 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01707] [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: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
The orphan G protein-coupled receptor (oGPCR) GPR3 represents a potential drug target for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and metabolic disorders. However, the limited toolbox of pharmacological assays hampers the development of advanced ligands. Here, we developed a signaling pathway-independent readout of compound-GPR3 interaction. Starting from computational binding pose predictions of the most potent GPR3 ligand, we designed a series of fluorescent AF64394 analogues and assessed their suitability for BRET-based binding studies. The most potent ligand, 45 (UR-MB-355), bound to GPR3 and closely related receptors, GPR6 and GPR12, with similar submicromolar affinities. Furthermore, we found that 45 engages GPR3 in a distinct mode compared to AF64394, and coincubation studies with the GPR3 agonist diphenyleneiodonium chloride revealed allosteric modulation of 45 binding. These insights provide new cues for the pharmacological manipulation of GPR3 activity. This novel binding assay will foster the development of future drugs acting through these pharmacologically attractive oGPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merlin Bresinsky
- Institute
of Pharmacy, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Aida Shahraki
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University
of Marburg, Marbacher Weg 8, 35032 Marburg, Germany
| | - Peter Kolb
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University
of Marburg, Marbacher Weg 8, 35032 Marburg, Germany
| | - Steffen Pockes
- Institute
of Pharmacy, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55414, United States
| | - Hannes Schihada
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University
of Marburg, Marbacher Weg 8, 35032 Marburg, Germany
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8
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Grätz L, Kowalski-Jahn M, Scharf MM, Kozielewicz P, Jahn M, Bous J, Lambert NA, Gloriam DE, Schulte G. Pathway selectivity in Frizzleds is achieved by conserved micro-switches defining pathway-determining, active conformations. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4573. [PMID: 37516754 PMCID: PMC10387068 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40213-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The class Frizzled of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), consisting of ten Frizzled (FZD1-10) paralogs and Smoothened, remains one of the most enigmatic GPCR families. This class mediates signaling predominantly through Disheveled (DVL) or heterotrimeric G proteins. However, the mechanisms underlying pathway selection are elusive. Here we employ a structure-driven mutagenesis approach in combination with an extensive panel of functional signaling readouts to investigate the importance of conserved state-stabilizing residues in FZD5 for signal specification. Similar data were obtained for FZD4 and FZD10 suggesting that our findings can be extrapolated to other members of the FZD family. Comparative molecular dynamics simulations of wild type and selected FZD5 mutants further support the concept that distinct conformational changes in FZDs specify the signal outcome. In conclusion, we find that FZD5 and FZDs in general prefer coupling to DVL rather than heterotrimeric G proteins and that distinct active state micro-switches in the receptor are essential for pathway selection arguing for conformational changes in the receptor protein defining transducer selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Grätz
- Karolinska Institutet, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Sec. Receptor Biology & Signaling, Biomedicum, S-17165, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Kowalski-Jahn
- Karolinska Institutet, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Sec. Receptor Biology & Signaling, Biomedicum, S-17165, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Magdalena M Scharf
- Karolinska Institutet, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Sec. Receptor Biology & Signaling, Biomedicum, S-17165, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pawel Kozielewicz
- Karolinska Institutet, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Sec. Receptor Biology & Signaling, Biomedicum, S-17165, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Michael Jahn
- School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, Science for Life Laboratory, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, S-17121, Solna, Sweden
- Max Planck Unit for the Science of Pathogens, Bioinformatics platform, Charitéplatz 1, D-10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Julien Bous
- Karolinska Institutet, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Sec. Receptor Biology & Signaling, Biomedicum, S-17165, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nevin A Lambert
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - David E Gloriam
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gunnar Schulte
- Karolinska Institutet, Dept. Physiology & Pharmacology, Sec. Receptor Biology & Signaling, Biomedicum, S-17165, Stockholm, Sweden.
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9
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Chen G, Obal D. Detecting and measuring of GPCR signaling - comparison of human induced pluripotent stem cells and immortal cell lines. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1179600. [PMID: 37293485 PMCID: PMC10244570 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1179600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a large family of transmembrane proteins that play a major role in many physiological processes, and thus GPCR-targeted drug development has been widely promoted. Although research findings generated in immortal cell lines have contributed to the advancement of the GPCR field, the homogenous genetic backgrounds, and the overexpression of GPCRs in these cell lines make it difficult to correlate the results with clinical patients. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have the potential to overcome these limitations, because they contain patient specific genetic information and can differentiate into numerous cell types. To detect GPCRs in hiPSCs, highly selective labeling and sensitive imaging techniques are required. This review summarizes existing resonance energy transfer and protein complementation assay technologies, as well as existing and new labeling methods. The difficulties of extending existing detection methods to hiPSCs are discussed, as well as the potential of hiPSCs to expand GPCR research towards personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaoxian Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Detlef Obal
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
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10
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Mattheisen JM, Limberakis C, Ruggeri RB, Dowling MS, Am Ende CW, Ceraudo E, Huber T, McClendon CL, Sakmar TP. Bioorthogonal Tethering Enhances Drug Fragment Affinity for G Protein-Coupled Receptors in Live Cells. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:11173-11184. [PMID: 37116188 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c00972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) modulate diverse cellular signaling pathways and are important drug targets. Despite the availability of high-resolution structures, the discovery of allosteric modulators remains challenging due to the dynamic nature of GPCRs in native membranes. We developed a strategy to covalently tether drug fragments adjacent to allosteric sites in GPCRs to enhance their potency and enable fragment-based drug screening in cell-based systems. We employed genetic code expansion to site-specifically introduce noncanonical amino acids with reactive groups in C-C chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) near an allosteric binding site for the drug maraviroc. We then used molecular dynamics simulations to design heterobifunctional maraviroc analogues consisting of a drug fragment connected by a flexible linker to a reactive moiety capable of undergoing a bioorthogonal coupling reaction. We synthesized a library of these analogues and employed the bioorthogonal inverse electron demand Diels-Alder reaction to couple the analogues to the engineered CCR5 in live cells, which were then assayed using cell-based signaling assays. Tetherable low-affinity maraviroc fragments displayed an increase in potency for CCR5 engineered with reactive unnatural amino acids that were adjacent to the maraviroc binding site. The strategy we describe to tether novel drug fragments to GPCRs should prove useful to probe allosteric or cryptic binding site functionality in fragment-based GPCR-targeted drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan M Mattheisen
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Signal Transduction, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York 10065, United States
- Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Chemical Biology, New York, New York 10065, United States
| | - Chris Limberakis
- Pfizer Worldwide Research, Development, and Medical, Groton, Connecticut 06340, United States
| | - Roger B Ruggeri
- Pfizer Worldwide Research, Development, and Medical, Groton, Connecticut 06340, United States
| | - Matthew S Dowling
- Pfizer Worldwide Research, Development, and Medical, Groton, Connecticut 06340, United States
| | - Christopher W Am Ende
- Pfizer Worldwide Research, Development, and Medical, Groton, Connecticut 06340, United States
| | - Emilie Ceraudo
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Signal Transduction, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York 10065, United States
| | - Thomas Huber
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Signal Transduction, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York 10065, United States
| | - Christopher L McClendon
- Pfizer Worldwide Research, Development, and Medical, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Thomas P Sakmar
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Signal Transduction, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York 10065, United States
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11
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Bowin CF, Kozielewicz P, Grätz L, Kowalski-Jahn M, Schihada H, Schulte G. WNT stimulation induces dynamic conformational changes in the Frizzled-Dishevelled interaction. Sci Signal 2023; 16:eabo4974. [PMID: 37014927 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.abo4974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
Frizzleds (FZDs) are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that bind to WNT family ligands. FZDs signal through multiple effector proteins, including Dishevelled (DVL), which acts as a hub for several downstream signaling pathways. To understand how WNT binding to FZD stimulates intracellular signaling and influences downstream pathway selectivity, we investigated the dynamic changes in the FZD5-DVL2 interaction elicited by WNT-3A and WNT-5A. Ligand-induced changes in bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) between FZD5 and DVL2 or the isolated FZD-binding DEP domain of DVL2 revealed a composite response consisting of both DVL2 recruitment and conformational dynamics in the FZD5-DVL2 complex. The combination of different BRET paradigms enabled us to identify ligand-dependent conformational dynamics in the FZD5-DVL2 complex and distinguish them from ligand-induced recruitment of DVL2 or DEP to FZD5. The observed agonist-induced conformational changes at the receptor-transducer interface suggest that extracellular agonist and intracellular transducers cooperate through transmembrane allosteric interaction with FZDs in a ternary complex reminiscent of that of classical GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl-Fredrik Bowin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section of Receptor Biology and Signaling, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pawel Kozielewicz
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section of Receptor Biology and Signaling, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lukas Grätz
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section of Receptor Biology and Signaling, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Kowalski-Jahn
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section of Receptor Biology and Signaling, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hannes Schihada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section of Receptor Biology and Signaling, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Schulte
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section of Receptor Biology and Signaling, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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12
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Steiert F, Schultz P, Höfinger S, Müller TD, Schwille P, Weidemann T. Insights into receptor structure and dynamics at the surface of living cells. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1596. [PMID: 36949079 PMCID: PMC10033668 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37284-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Evaluating protein structures in living cells remains a challenge. Here, we investigate Interleukin-4 receptor alpha (IL-4Rα) into which the non-canonical amino acid bicyclo[6.1.0]nonyne-lysine (BCNK) is incorporated by genetic code expansion. Bioorthogonal click labeling is performed with tetrazine-conjugated dyes. To quantify the reaction yield in situ, we develop brightness-calibrated ratiometric imaging, a protocol where fluorescent signals in confocal multi-color images are ascribed to local concentrations. Screening receptor mutants bearing BCNK in the extracellular domain uncovered site-specific variations of both click efficiency and Interleukin-4 binding affinity, indicating subtle well-defined structural perturbations. Molecular dynamics and continuum electrostatics calculations suggest solvent polarization to determine site-specific variations of BCNK reactivity. Strikingly, signatures of differential click efficiency, measured for IL-4Rα in ligand-bound and free form, mirror sub-angstrom deformations of the protein backbone at corresponding locations. Thus, click efficiency by itself represents a remarkably informative readout linked to protein structure and dynamics in the native plasma membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederik Steiert
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152, Martinsried, Germany
- Department of Physics, Technical University Munich, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Peter Schultz
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Siegfried Höfinger
- VSC Research Center, TU Wien, Operngasse 11 / E057-09, 1040, Wien, Austria
- Department of Physics, Michigan Technological University, 1400 Townsend Drive, 49931, Houghton, MI, USA
| | - Thomas D Müller
- Biozentrum, Julius-von-Sachs-Institut für Biowissenschaften, Lehrstuhl für Molekulare Pflanzenphysiologie und Biophysik - Botanik I, Julius-von-Sachs-Platz 2, 97082, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Petra Schwille
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Thomas Weidemann
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152, Martinsried, Germany.
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Mattheisen JM, Wollowitz JS, Huber T, Sakmar TP. Genetic code expansion to enable site-specific bioorthogonal labeling of functional G protein-coupled receptors in live cells. Protein Sci 2023; 32:e4550. [PMID: 36540928 PMCID: PMC9847076 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
For use in site-specific bioorthogonal labeling of expressed G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in live cells, we developed a luciferase-based reporter assay. The assay was used to compare amber codon suppression efficiency, receptor functionality, and efficiency of different bioorthogonal labeling chemistries. We used the assay system to compare side-by-side the efficiency of incorporation of three different noncanonical amino acids [4-azido-l-phenylalanine (azF), cyclopropene-l-lysine (CpK), and trans-cyclooct-2-en-l-lysine (TCOK)] at three different sites on a GPCR using three different genetic code expansion plasmid systems. As a model GPCR, we engineered an epitope-tagged C-C chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5)-RLuc3 fusion for expression in HEK293T cells. Satisfactory incorporation of azF, CpK, and TCOK into heterologously expressed CCR5 was achieved. We also carried out cell-based calcium mobilization assays to measure the function of the engineered CCR5, and in the same cells, we performed bioorthogonal labeling of the engineered mutants using heterobivalent compounds containing bioorthogonal tethering groups linked to either a small-molecule fluorophore or a peptide. Favorable reaction kinetics of tetrazine-containing compounds with CCR5 harboring TCOK was observed. However, bioorthogonal labeling in live cells of CCR5 harboring CpK with tetrazine-containing compounds using the inverse electron demand Diels-Alder ligation was overall slightly more efficient than other reactions tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan M. Mattheisen
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Signal TransductionThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Tri‐Institutional PhD Program in Chemical BiologyNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Jaina S. Wollowitz
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Signal TransductionThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Tri‐Institutional PhD Program in Chemical BiologyNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Thomas Huber
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Signal TransductionThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Thomas P. Sakmar
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Signal TransductionThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
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14
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Kowalski-Jahn M, Schihada H, Schulte G. Conformational GPCR BRET Sensors Based on Bioorthogonal Labeling of Noncanonical Amino Acids. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2676:201-213. [PMID: 37277635 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3251-2_15] [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: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Here we describe the application of genetic code expansion and site-specific incorporation of noncanonical amino acids that serve as anchor points for fluorescent labeling to generate bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET)-based conformational sensors. Using a receptor with an N-terminal NanoLuciferase (Nluc) and a fluorescently labeled noncanonical amino acid in the receptor's extracellular part allows to analyze receptor complex formation, dissociation, and conformational rearrangements over time and in living cells. These BRET sensors can be used to investigate ligand-induced intramolecular (cysteine-rich domain [CRD] dynamics), but also intermolecular (dimer dynamics) receptor rearrangements. With the design of BRET conformational sensors based on the minimally invasive bioorthogonal labeling procedure, we describe a method that can be used in a microtiter plate format and can be easily adopted to investigate ligand-induced dynamics in various membrane receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Kowalski-Jahn
- Receptor Biology & Signaling, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hannes Schihada
- Receptor Biology & Signaling, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Schulte
- Receptor Biology & Signaling, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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15
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Kotliar IB, Lorenzen E, Schwenk JM, Hay DL, Sakmar TP. Elucidating the Interactome of G Protein-Coupled Receptors and Receptor Activity-Modifying Proteins. Pharmacol Rev 2023; 75:1-34. [PMID: 36757898 PMCID: PMC9832379 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.120.000180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are known to interact with several other classes of integral membrane proteins that modulate their biology and pharmacology. However, the extent of these interactions and the mechanisms of their effects are not well understood. For example, one class of GPCR-interacting proteins, receptor activity-modifying proteins (RAMPs), comprise three related and ubiquitously expressed single-transmembrane span proteins. The RAMP family was discovered more than two decades ago, and since then GPCR-RAMP interactions and their functional consequences on receptor trafficking and ligand selectivity have been documented for several secretin (class B) GPCRs, most notably the calcitonin receptor-like receptor. Recent bioinformatics and multiplexed experimental studies suggest that GPCR-RAMP interactions might be much more widespread than previously anticipated. Recently, cryo-electron microscopy has provided high-resolution structures of GPCR-RAMP-ligand complexes, and drugs have been developed that target GPCR-RAMP complexes. In this review, we provide a summary of recent advances in techniques that allow the discovery of GPCR-RAMP interactions and their functional consequences and highlight prospects for future advances. We also provide an up-to-date list of reported GPCR-RAMP interactions based on a review of the current literature. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Receptor activity-modifying proteins (RAMPs) have emerged as modulators of many aspects of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR)biology and pharmacology. The application of new methodologies to study membrane protein-protein interactions suggests that RAMPs interact with many more GPCRs than had been previously known. These findings, especially when combined with structural studies of membrane protein complexes, have significant implications for advancing GPCR-targeted drug discovery and the understanding of GPCR pharmacology, biology, and regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilana B Kotliar
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Signal Transduction, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York (I.B.K., E.L., T.P.S.); Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Chemical Biology, New York, New York (I.B.K.); Science for Life Laboratory, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH-Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden (J.M.S.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand (D.L.H.); and Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society (NVS), Division for Neurogeriatrics, Center for Alzheimer Research, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden (T.P.S.)
| | - Emily Lorenzen
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Signal Transduction, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York (I.B.K., E.L., T.P.S.); Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Chemical Biology, New York, New York (I.B.K.); Science for Life Laboratory, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH-Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden (J.M.S.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand (D.L.H.); and Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society (NVS), Division for Neurogeriatrics, Center for Alzheimer Research, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden (T.P.S.)
| | - Jochen M Schwenk
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Signal Transduction, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York (I.B.K., E.L., T.P.S.); Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Chemical Biology, New York, New York (I.B.K.); Science for Life Laboratory, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH-Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden (J.M.S.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand (D.L.H.); and Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society (NVS), Division for Neurogeriatrics, Center for Alzheimer Research, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden (T.P.S.)
| | - Debbie L Hay
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Signal Transduction, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York (I.B.K., E.L., T.P.S.); Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Chemical Biology, New York, New York (I.B.K.); Science for Life Laboratory, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH-Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden (J.M.S.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand (D.L.H.); and Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society (NVS), Division for Neurogeriatrics, Center for Alzheimer Research, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden (T.P.S.)
| | - Thomas P Sakmar
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Signal Transduction, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York (I.B.K., E.L., T.P.S.); Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Chemical Biology, New York, New York (I.B.K.); Science for Life Laboratory, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH-Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden (J.M.S.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand (D.L.H.); and Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society (NVS), Division for Neurogeriatrics, Center for Alzheimer Research, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden (T.P.S.)
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