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Liu L, Kimberley EI, Dattaroy D, Barella LF, Cui Y, Guedikian C, Chen M, Weinstein LS, Knuth E, Jin E, Merrins MJ, Roman J, Kaestner KH, Doliba N, Campbell JE, Wess J. Intra-islet α-cell Gs signaling promotes glucagon release. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5129. [PMID: 38879678 PMCID: PMC11180188 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49537-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Glucagon, a hormone released from pancreatic α-cells, is critical for maintaining euglycemia and plays a key role in the pathophysiology of diabetes. To stimulate the development of new classes of therapeutic agents targeting glucagon release, key α-cell signaling pathways that regulate glucagon secretion need to be identified. Here, we focused on the potential importance of α-cell Gs signaling on modulating α-cell function. Studies with α-cell-specific mouse models showed that activation of α-cell Gs signaling causes a marked increase in glucagon secretion. We also found that intra-islet adenosine plays an unexpected autocrine/paracrine role in promoting glucagon release via activation of α-cell Gs-coupled A2A adenosine receptors. Studies with α-cell-specific Gαs knockout mice showed that α-cell Gs also plays an essential role in stimulating the activity of the Gcg gene, thus ensuring proper islet glucagon content. Our data suggest that α-cell enriched Gs-coupled receptors represent potential targets for modulating α-cell function for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Liu
- Molecular Signaling Section, LBC, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| | - E I Kimberley
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
| | - Diptadip Dattaroy
- Molecular Signaling Section, LBC, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Luiz F Barella
- Molecular Signaling Section, LBC, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Yinghong Cui
- Molecular Signaling Section, LBC, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Carla Guedikian
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
| | - Min Chen
- Metabolic Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Lee S Weinstein
- Metabolic Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Emily Knuth
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Erli Jin
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Matthew J Merrins
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Jeffrey Roman
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Klaus H Kaestner
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Nicolai Doliba
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Jonathan E Campbell
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
| | - Jürgen Wess
- Molecular Signaling Section, LBC, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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2
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Tatsumi M, Cruz C, Kamakura N, Kuwabara R, Nakamura G, Ikuta T, Abrol R, Inoue A. Identification of Gα 12-vs-Gα 13-coupling determinants and development of a Gα 12/13-coupled designer GPCR. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11119. [PMID: 38750247 PMCID: PMC11096383 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61506-4] [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: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) transduce diverse signals into the cell by coupling to one or several Gα subtypes. Of the 16 Gα subtypes in human cells, Gα12 and Gα13 belong to the G12 subfamily and are reported to be functionally different. Notably, certain GPCRs display selective coupling to either Gα12 or Gα13, highlighting their significance in various cellular contexts. However, the structural basis underlying this selectivity remains unclear. Here, using a Gα12-coupled designer receptor exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADD; G12D) as a model system, we identified residues in the α5 helix and the receptor that collaboratively determine Gα12-vs-Gα13 selectivity. Residue-swapping experiments showed that G12D distinguishes differences between Gα12 and Gα13 in the positions G.H5.09 and G.H5.23 in the α5 helix. Molecular dynamics simulations observed that I378G.H5.23 in Gα12 interacts with N1032.39, S1693.53 and Y17634.53 in G12D, while H364G.H5.09 in Gα12 interact with Q2645.71 in G12D. Screening of mutations at these positions in G12D identified G12D mutants that enhanced coupling with Gα12 and to an even greater extent with Gα13. Combined mutations, most notably the dual Y17634.53H and Q2645.71R mutant, further enhanced Gα12/13 coupling, thereby serving as a potential Gα12/13-DREADD. Such novel Gα12/13-DREADD may be useful in future efforts to develop drugs that target Gα12/13 signaling as well as to identify their therapeutic indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manae Tatsumi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, 6-3, Aoba, Aramaki, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Christian Cruz
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University, Northridge, CA, 91330, USA
| | - Nozomi Kamakura
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, 6-3, Aoba, Aramaki, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Riku Kuwabara
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, 6-3, Aoba, Aramaki, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Gaku Nakamura
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, 6-3, Aoba, Aramaki, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Ikuta
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, 6-3, Aoba, Aramaki, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Ravinder Abrol
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University, Northridge, CA, 91330, USA
| | - Asuka Inoue
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, 6-3, Aoba, Aramaki, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8578, Japan.
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, 46-29 Yoshida-Shimo-Adachi-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan.
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3
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Bendixen SM, Jakobsgaard PR, Hansen D, Hejn KH, Terkelsen MK, Bjerre FA, Thulesen AP, Eriksen NG, Hallenborg P, Geng Y, Dam TV, Larsen FT, Wernberg CW, Vijayathurai J, Scott EAH, Marcher AB, Detlefsen S, Grøntved L, Dimke H, Berdeaux R, de Aguiar Vallim TQ, Olinga P, Lauridsen MM, Krag A, Blagoev B, Ravnskjaer K. Single cell-resolved study of advanced murine MASH reveals a homeostatic pericyte signaling module. J Hepatol 2024; 80:467-481. [PMID: 37972658 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is linked to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes and marked by hepatic inflammation, microvascular dysfunction, and fibrosis, impairing liver function and aggravating metabolic derangements. The liver homeostatic interactions disrupted in MASH are still poorly understood. We aimed to elucidate the plasticity and changing interactions of non-parenchymal cells associated with advanced MASH. METHODS We characterized a diet-induced mouse model of advanced MASH at single-cell resolution and validated findings by assaying chromatin accessibility, bioimaging murine and human livers, and via functional experiments in vivo and in vitro. RESULTS The fibrogenic activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) led to deterioration of a signaling module consisting of the bile acid receptor NR1H4/FXR and HSC-specific GS-protein-coupled receptors (GSPCRs) capable of preserving stellate cell quiescence. Accompanying HSC activation, we further observed the attenuation of HSC Gdf2 expression, and a MASH-associated expansion of a CD207-positive macrophage population likely derived from both incoming monocytes and Kupffer cells. CONCLUSION We conclude that HSC-expressed NR1H4 and GSPCRs of the healthy liver integrate postprandial cues, which sustain HSC quiescence and, through paracrine signals, overall sinusoidal health. Hence HSC activation in MASH not only drives fibrogenesis but may desensitize the hepatic sinusoid to liver homeostatic signals. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Homeostatic interactions between hepatic cell types and their deterioration in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis are poorly characterized. In our current single cell-resolved study of advanced murine metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, we identified a quiescence-associated hepatic stellate cell-signaling module with potential to preserve normal sinusoid function. As expression levels of its constituents are conserved in the human liver, stimulation of the identified signaling module is a promising therapeutic strategy to restore sinusoid function in chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie M Bendixen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Peter R Jakobsgaard
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Daniel Hansen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Kamilla H Hejn
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Mike K Terkelsen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Frederik A Bjerre
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Annemette P Thulesen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Niels G Eriksen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Philip Hallenborg
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Yana Geng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Trine V Dam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Frederik T Larsen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Charlotte W Wernberg
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Odense University Hospital, Denmark; Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital of South Denmark Esbjerg, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Janusa Vijayathurai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Emma A H Scott
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Ann-Britt Marcher
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Sönke Detlefsen
- Department of Pathology, Odense University Hospital, Denmark; Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Lars Grøntved
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Henrik Dimke
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Department of Nephrology, Odense University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Rebecca Berdeaux
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, UT Health Houston, USA
| | - Thomas Q de Aguiar Vallim
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of California, Los Angeles, USA; Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Peter Olinga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Mette M Lauridsen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital of South Denmark Esbjerg, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Aleksander Krag
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Odense University Hospital, Denmark; Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Blagoy Blagoev
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Kim Ravnskjaer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark.
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4
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Wu VH, Yung BS, Faraji F, Saddawi-Konefka R, Wang Z, Wenzel AT, Song MJ, Pagadala MS, Clubb LM, Chiou J, Sinha S, Matic M, Raimondi F, Hoang TS, Berdeaux R, Vignali DAA, Iglesias-Bartolome R, Carter H, Ruppin E, Mesirov JP, Gutkind JS. The GPCR-Gα s-PKA signaling axis promotes T cell dysfunction and cancer immunotherapy failure. Nat Immunol 2023; 24:1318-1330. [PMID: 37308665 PMCID: PMC10735169 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-023-01529-7] [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: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) targeting PD-1 and CTLA-4 has revolutionized cancer treatment. However, many cancers do not respond to ICB, prompting the search for additional strategies to achieve durable responses. G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the most intensively studied drug targets but are underexplored in immuno-oncology. Here, we cross-integrated large singe-cell RNA-sequencing datasets from CD8+ T cells covering 19 distinct cancer types and identified an enrichment of Gαs-coupled GPCRs on exhausted CD8+ T cells. These include EP2, EP4, A2AR, β1AR and β2AR, all of which promote T cell dysfunction. We also developed transgenic mice expressing a chemogenetic CD8-restricted Gαs-DREADD to activate CD8-restricted Gαs signaling and show that a Gαs-PKA signaling axis promotes CD8+ T cell dysfunction and immunotherapy failure. These data indicate that Gαs-GPCRs are druggable immune checkpoints that might be targeted to enhance the response to ICB immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria H Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, UCSD Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Septerna, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Bryan S Yung
- Department of Pharmacology, UCSD Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Farhoud Faraji
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Diego Health, La Jolla, CA, USA
- UCSD Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Robert Saddawi-Konefka
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Diego Health, La Jolla, CA, USA
- UCSD Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Zhiyong Wang
- UCSD Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Alexander T Wenzel
- UCSD Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Miranda J Song
- UCSD Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Meghana S Pagadala
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Lauren M Clubb
- Department of Pharmacology, UCSD Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Joshua Chiou
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Studies Program, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Internal Medicine Research Unit, Pfizer Worldwide Research, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Sanju Sinha
- Cancer Data Science Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Marin Matic
- Laboratorio di Biologia Bio@SNS, Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Thomas S Hoang
- Department of Pharmacology, UCSD Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Rebecca Berdeaux
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School at UT Health Houston and CellChorus INC, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Dario A A Vignali
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ramiro Iglesias-Bartolome
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Hannah Carter
- UCSD Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Eytan Ruppin
- Cancer Data Science Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jill P Mesirov
- UCSD Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - J Silvio Gutkind
- Department of Pharmacology, UCSD Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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5
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Gaitonde KD, Andrabi M, Burger CA, D'Souza SP, Vemaraju S, Koritala BSC, Smith DF, Lang RA. Diurnal regulation of metabolism by Gs-alpha in hypothalamic QPLOT neurons. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0284824. [PMID: 37141220 PMCID: PMC10159165 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurons in the hypothalamic preoptic area (POA) regulate multiple homeostatic processes, including thermoregulation and sleep, by sensing afferent input and modulating sympathetic nervous system output. The POA has an autonomous circadian clock and may also receive circadian signals indirectly from the suprachiasmatic nucleus. We have previously defined a subset of neurons in the POA termed QPLOT neurons that are identified by the expression of molecular markers (Qrfp, Ptger3, LepR, Opn5, Tacr3) that suggest receptivity to multiple stimuli. Because Ptger3, Opn5, and Tacr3 encode G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), we hypothesized that elucidating the G-protein signaling in these neurons is essential to understanding the interplay of inputs in the regulation of metabolism. Here, we describe how the stimulatory Gs-alpha subunit (Gnas) in QPLOT neurons regulates metabolism in mice. We analyzed Opn5cre; Gnasfl/fl mice using indirect calorimetry at ambient temperatures of 22°C (a historical standard), 10°C (a cold challenge), and 28°C (thermoneutrality) to assess the ability of QPLOT neurons to regulate metabolism. We observed a marked decrease in nocturnal locomotion of Opn5cre; Gnasfl/fl mice at both 28°C and 22°C, but no overall differences in energy expenditure, respiratory exchange, or food and water consumption. To analyze daily rhythmic patterns of metabolism, we assessed circadian parameters including amplitude, phase, and MESOR. Loss-of-function GNAS in QPLOT neurons resulted in several subtle rhythmic changes in multiple metabolic parameters. We observed that Opn5cre; Gnasfl/fl mice show a higher rhythm-adjusted mean energy expenditure at 22°C and 10°C, and an exaggerated respiratory exchange shift with temperature. At 28°C, Opn5cre; Gnasfl/fl mice have a significant delay in the phase of energy expenditure and respiratory exchange. Rhythmic analysis also showed limited increases in rhythm-adjusted means of food and water intake at 22°C and 28°C. Together, these data advance our understanding of Gαs-signaling in preoptic QPLOT neurons in regulating daily patterns of metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin D Gaitonde
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Visual Systems Group, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Molecular & Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Mutahar Andrabi
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Visual Systems Group, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Courtney A Burger
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Visual Systems Group, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Shane P D'Souza
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Visual Systems Group, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Molecular & Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Shruti Vemaraju
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Visual Systems Group, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Bala S C Koritala
- Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - David F Smith
- Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- The Center for Circadian Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Richard A Lang
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Visual Systems Group, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
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6
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Matsumura S, Miyakita M, Miyamori H, Kyo S, Shima D, Yokokawa T, Ishikawa F, Sasaki T, Jinno T, Tanaka J, Goto T, Momma K, Ishihara K, Berdeaux R, Inoue K. Stimulation of G s signaling in MC4R cells by DREADD increases energy expenditure, suppresses food intake, and increases locomotor activity in mice. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2022; 322:E436-E445. [PMID: 35344393 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00439.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) plays an important role in the regulation of appetite and energy expenditure in humans and rodents. Impairment of MC4R signaling causes severe obesity. MC4R mainly couples to the G-protein Gs. Ligand binding to MC4R activates adenylyl cyclase resulting in increased intracellular cAMP levels. cAMP acts as a secondary messenger, regulating various cellular processes. MC4R can also couple with Gq and other signaling pathways. Therefore, the contribution of MC4R/Gs signaling to energy metabolism and appetite remains unclear. To study the effect of Gs signaling activation in MC4R cells on whole body energy metabolism and appetite, we generated a novel mouse strain that expresses a Gs-coupled designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs [Gs-DREADD (GsD)] selectively in MC4R-expressing cells (GsD-MC4R mice). Chemogenetic activation of the GsD by a designer drug [deschloroclozapine (DCZ); 0.01∼0.1 mg/kg body wt] in MC4R-expressing cells significantly increased oxygen consumption and locomotor activity. In addition, GsD activation significantly reduced the respiratory exchange ratio, promoting fatty acid oxidation, but did not affect core (rectal) temperature. A low dose of DCZ (0.01 mg/kg body wt) did not suppress food intake, but a high dose of DCZ (0.1 mg/kg body wt) suppressed food intake in MC4R-GsD mice, although either DCZ dose (0.01 or 0.1 mg/kg body wt) did not affect food intake in the control mice. In conclusion, the current study demonstrated that the stimulation of Gs signaling in MC4R-expressing cells increases energy expenditure and locomotor activity and suppresses appetite.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We report that Gs signaling in melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R)-expressing cells regulates energy expenditure, appetite, and locomotor activity. These findings shed light on the mechanism underlying the regulation of energy metabolism and locomotor activity by MC4R/cAMP signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigenobu Matsumura
- Division of Food Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Graduate School of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Motoki Miyakita
- Division of Food Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Haruka Miyamori
- Division of Food Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Satomi Kyo
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyoto Women's University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Daisuke Shima
- Department of Food Sciences and Human Nutrition, Faculty of Agriculture, Ryukoku University, Shiga, Japan
| | - Takumi Yokokawa
- Division of Food Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Fuka Ishikawa
- Division of Food Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Sasaki
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tomoki Jinno
- Division of Food Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Jin Tanaka
- Division of Food Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Goto
- Division of Food Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Keiko Momma
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyoto Women's University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kengo Ishihara
- Department of Food Sciences and Human Nutrition, Faculty of Agriculture, Ryukoku University, Shiga, Japan
| | - Rebecca Berdeaux
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Kazuo Inoue
- Division of Food Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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7
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Meister J, Bone DBJ, Knudsen JR, Barella LF, Velenosi TJ, Akhmedov D, Lee RJ, Cohen AH, Gavrilova O, Cui Y, Karsenty G, Chen M, Weinstein LS, Kleinert M, Berdeaux R, Jensen TE, Richter EA, Wess J. Clenbuterol exerts antidiabetic activity through metabolic reprogramming of skeletal muscle cells. Nat Commun 2022; 13:22. [PMID: 35013148 PMCID: PMC8748640 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27540-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of the sympathetic nervous system causes pronounced metabolic changes that are mediated by multiple adrenergic receptor subtypes. Systemic treatment with β2-adrenergic receptor agonists results in multiple beneficial metabolic effects, including improved glucose homeostasis. To elucidate the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms, we chronically treated wild-type mice and several newly developed mutant mouse strains with clenbuterol, a selective β2-adrenergic receptor agonist. Clenbuterol administration caused pronounced improvements in glucose homeostasis and prevented the metabolic deficits in mouse models of β-cell dysfunction and insulin resistance. Studies with skeletal muscle-specific mutant mice demonstrated that these metabolic improvements required activation of skeletal muscle β2-adrenergic receptors and the stimulatory G protein, Gs. Unbiased transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses showed that chronic β2-adrenergic receptor stimulation caused metabolic reprogramming of skeletal muscle characterized by enhanced glucose utilization. These findings strongly suggest that agents targeting skeletal muscle metabolism by modulating β2-adrenergic receptor-dependent signaling pathways may prove beneficial as antidiabetic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaroslawna Meister
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| | - Derek B J Bone
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Jonas R Knudsen
- Departments of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, København, Denmark
| | - Luiz F Barella
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Thomas J Velenosi
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Dmitry Akhmedov
- Departments of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, Houston Medical School, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Regina J Lee
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Amanda H Cohen
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Oksana Gavrilova
- Mouse Metabolism Core, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Yinghong Cui
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Gerard Karsenty
- Departments of Genetics and Development, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Min Chen
- Metabolic Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Lee S Weinstein
- Metabolic Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Maximilian Kleinert
- Departments of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, København, Denmark
- Muscle Physiology and Metabolism Group, German Institute of Human Nutrition, Potsdam-Rehbrücke, Nuthetal, Germany
| | - Rebecca Berdeaux
- Departments of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, Houston Medical School, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Thomas E Jensen
- Departments of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, København, Denmark
| | - Erik A Richter
- Departments of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, København, Denmark
| | - Jürgen Wess
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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8
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Knudsen JR, Persson KW, Meister J, Carl CS, Raun SH, Andersen NR, Sylow L, Kiens B, Jensen TE, Richter EA, Kleinert M. Exercise increases phosphorylation of the putative mTORC2 activity readout NDRG1 in human skeletal muscle. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2022; 322:E63-E73. [PMID: 34866401 PMCID: PMC8759970 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00389.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
In mice, exercise is suggested to activate the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 2 (mTORC2) in skeletal muscle, and mTORC2 is required for normal muscle glucose uptake during exercise. Whether this translates to human skeletal muscle and what signaling pathways facilitate the exercise-induced mTORC2 activation is unknown. We herein tested the hypothesis that exercise increases mTORC2 activity in human skeletal muscle and investigated if β2-adrenergic receptor (AR) activation mediates exercise-induced mTORC2 activation. We examined several mTORC2 activity readouts (p-NDRG1 Thr346, p-Akt Ser473, p-mTOR S2481, and p-Akt Thr450) in human skeletal muscle biopsies after uphill walking or cycling exercise. In mouse muscles, we assessed mTORC2 activity readouts following acute activation of muscle β2-adrenergic or GS signaling and during in vivo and ex vivo muscle contractions. Exercise increased phosphorylation of NDRG1 Thr346 in human soleus, gastrocnemius, and vastus lateralis muscle, without changing p-Akt Ser473, p-Akt Thr450, and p-mTOR Ser2481. In mouse muscle, stimulation of β2-adrenergic or GS signaling and ex vivo contractions failed to increase p-NDRG1 Thr346, whereas in vivo contractions were sufficient to induce p-NDRG1 Thr346. In conclusion, the mTORC2 activity readout p-NDRG1 Thr346 is a novel exercise-responsive signaling protein in human skeletal muscle. Notably, contraction-induced p-NDRG1 Thr346 appears to require a systemic factor. Unlike exercise, and in contrast to published data obtained in cultured muscles cells, stimulation of β2-adrenergic signaling is not sufficient to trigger NDRG1 phosphorylation in mature mouse skeletal muscle.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The mTORC2 readout p-NDRG Thr346 is a novel exercise-responsive protein in human skeletal muscle. β2-AR and GS signaling are not sufficient to induce mTORC2 signaling in adult muscle. In vivo, but not ex vivo, contraction induced p-NDRG Thr346, which indicates requirement of a systemic factor for exercise-induced mTORC2 activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas R Knudsen
- Section of Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kaspar W Persson
- Section of Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jaroslawna Meister
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Christian S Carl
- Section of Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Steffen H Raun
- Section of Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicoline R Andersen
- Section of Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lykke Sylow
- Section of Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bente Kiens
- Section of Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas E Jensen
- Section of Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Erik A Richter
- Section of Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maximilian Kleinert
- Section of Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Muscle Physiology and Metabolism Group, German Institute of Human Nutrition, Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Nuthetal, Germany
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9
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Miranda M, Avila I, Esparza J, Shwartz Y, Hsu YC, Berdeaux R, Lowry WE. Defining a Role for G-Protein Coupled Receptor/cAMP/CRE-Binding Protein Signaling in Hair Follicle Stem Cell Activation. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 142:53-64.e3. [PMID: 34280464 PMCID: PMC8989631 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Manipulation of adrenergic signaling has been shown experimentally and clinically to affect hair follicle growth. In this study, we provide direct evidence that canonical cAMP/CRE-binding protein signaling through adrenergic receptors can regulate hair follicle stem cell (HFSC) activation and hair cycle. We found that CRE-binding protein activation is regulated through the hair cycle and coincides with HFSC activation. Both isoproterenol and procaterol, agonists of adrenergic receptors, show the capacity to activate the hair cycle in mice. Furthermore, deletion of ADRB2 receptor, which is thought to mediate sympathetic nervous system regulation of HFSCs, was sufficient to block HFSC activation. Downstream, stimulation of adenylyl cyclase with forskolin or inhibition of phosphodiesterase to increase cAMP accumulation or direct application of cAMP was each sufficient to promote HFSC activation and accelerate initiation of hair cycle. Genetic induction of a Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drug allele showed that G-protein coupled receptor/GαS stimulation, specifically in HFSCs, promoted the activation of the hair cycle. Finally, we provide evidence that G-protein coupled receptor/CRE-binding protein signaling can potentially act on HFSCs by promoting glycolytic metabolism, which was previously shown to stimulate HFSC activation. Together, these data provide mechanistic insights into the role of sympathetic innervation on HFSC function.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Miranda
- Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - I Avila
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - J Esparza
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Y Shwartz
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University and Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138
| | - YC Hsu
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University and Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138
| | - R Berdeaux
- Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - WE Lowry
- Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, Division of Dermatology, DGSOM, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
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10
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In vivo metabolic effects after acute activation of skeletal muscle G s signaling. Mol Metab 2021; 55:101415. [PMID: 34883278 PMCID: PMC8728399 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2021.101415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The goal of this study was to determine the glucometabolic effects of acute activation of Gs signaling in skeletal muscle (SKM) in vivo and its contribution to whole-body glucose homeostasis. Methods To address this question, we studied mice that express a Gs-coupled designer G protein-coupled receptor (Gs-DREADD or GsD) selectively in skeletal muscle. We also identified two Gs-coupled GPCRs that are endogenously expressed by SKM at relatively high levels (β2-adrenergic receptor and CRF2 receptor) and studied the acute metabolic effects of activating these receptors in vivo by highly selective agonists (clenbuterol and urocortin 2 (UCN2), respectively). Results Acute stimulation of GsD signaling in SKM impaired glucose tolerance in lean and obese mice by decreasing glucose uptake selectively into SKM. The acute metabolic effects following agonist activation of β2-adrenergic and, potentially, CRF2 receptors appear primarily mediated by altered insulin release. Clenbuterol injection improved glucose tolerance by increasing insulin secretion in lean mice. In SKM, clenbuterol stimulated glycogen breakdown. UCN2 injection resulted in decreased glucose tolerance associated with lower plasma insulin levels. The acute metabolic effects of UCN2 were not mediated by SKM Gs signaling. Conclusions Selective activation of Gs signaling in SKM causes an acute increase in blood glucose levels. However, acute in vivo stimulation of endogenous Gs-coupled receptors enriched in SKM has only a limited impact on whole-body glucose homeostasis, most likely due to the fact that these receptors are also expressed by pancreatic islets where they modulate insulin release. A novel mouse model allowed us to study the in vivo metabolic effects of acute activation of Gs signaling in skeletal muscle (SKM). Acute stimulation of this pathway resulted in impaired glucose tolerance in lean and obese mice due to decreased glucose uptake by SKM. Acute treatment of mice with selective β2-adrenergic and CRF2 receptor agonists (both receptors couple to Gs and are enriched in SKM) resulted in complex in vivo metabolic outcomes, primarily due to altered insulin release. Our study provides an excellent example of how different tissue expression patterns of receptors can affect the acute effects of GPCR agonists on whole-body glucose homeostasis Our findings also highlight the importance of studying both acute and chronic effects of GPCR agonist treatment to properly assess translationally relevant metabolic outcomes.
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11
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Javdan SB, Deans TL. Design and development of engineered receptors for cell and tissue engineering. CURRENT OPINION IN SYSTEMS BIOLOGY 2021; 28:100363. [PMID: 34527831 PMCID: PMC8437148 DOI: 10.1016/j.coisb.2021.100363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Advances in synthetic biology have provided genetic tools to reprogram cells to obtain desired cellular functions that include tools to enable the customization of cells to sense an extracellular signal and respond with a desired output. These include a variety of engineered receptors capable of transmembrane signaling that transmit information from outside of the cell to inside when specific ligands bind to them. Recent advances in synthetic receptor engineering have enabled the reprogramming of cell and tissue behavior, controlling cell fate decisions, and providing new vehicles for therapeutic delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shwan B. Javdan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Tara L. Deans
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
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12
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Pydi SP, Barella LF, Zhu L, Meister J, Rossi M, Wess J. β-Arrestins as Important Regulators of Glucose and Energy Homeostasis. Annu Rev Physiol 2021; 84:17-40. [PMID: 34705480 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-physiol-060721-092948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
β-Arrestin-1 and -2 (also known as arrestin-2 and -3, respectively) are ubiquitously expressed cytoplasmic proteins that dampen signaling through G protein-coupled receptors. However, β-arrestins can also act as signaling molecules in their own right. To investigate the potential metabolic roles of the two β-arrestins in modulating glucose and energy homeostasis, recent studies analyzed mutant mice that lacked or overexpressed β-arrestin-1 and/or -2 in distinct, metabolically important cell types. Metabolic analysis of these mutant mice clearly demonstrated that both β-arrestins play key roles in regulating the function of most of these cell types, resulting in striking changes in whole-body glucose and/or energy homeostasis. These studies also revealed that β-arrestin-1 and -2, though structurally closely related, clearly differ in their metabolic roles under physiological and pathophysiological conditions. These new findings should guide the development of novel drugs for the treatment of various metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes and obesity. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Physiology, Volume 84 is February 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai P Pydi
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, US Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, USA; .,Current affiliation: Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, The Mehta Family Centre for Engineering in Medicine, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, India
| | - Luiz F Barella
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, US Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, USA;
| | - Lu Zhu
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, US Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, USA;
| | - Jaroslawna Meister
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, US Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, USA;
| | - Mario Rossi
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, US Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, USA;
| | - Jürgen Wess
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, US Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, USA;
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13
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Soares AG, Contreras J, Archer CR, Mironova E, Berdeaux R, Stockand JD, Abd El-Aziz TM. Stimulation of the Epithelial Na + Channel in Renal Principal Cells by Gs-Coupled Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs. Front Physiol 2021; 12:725782. [PMID: 34512393 PMCID: PMC8425396 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.725782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The activity of the Epithelial Na+ Channel (ENaC) in renal principal cells (PC) fine-tunes sodium excretion and consequently, affects blood pressure. The Gs-adenylyl cyclase-cAMP signal transduction pathway is believed to play a central role in the normal control of ENaC activity in PCs. The current study quantifies the importance of this signaling pathway to the regulation of ENaC activity in vivo using a knock-in mouse that has conditional expression of Gs-DREADD (designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs; GsD) in renal PCs. The GsD mouse also contains a cAMP response element-luciferase reporter transgene for non-invasive bioluminescence monitoring of cAMP signaling. Clozapine N-oxide (CNO) was used to selectively and temporally stimulate GsD. Treatment with CNO significantly increased luciferase bioluminescence in the kidneys of PC-specific GsD but not control mice. CNO also significantly increased the activity of ENaC in principal cells in PC-specific GsD mice compared to untreated knock-in mice and CNO treated littermate controls. The cell permeable cAMP analog, 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)adenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate, significantly increased the activity and expression in the plasma membrane of recombinant ENaC expressed in CHO and COS-7 cells, respectively. Treatment of PC-specific GsD mice with CNO rapidly and significantly decreased urinary Na+ excretion compared to untreated PC-specific GsD mice and treated littermate controls. This decrease in Na+ excretion in response to CNO in PC-specific GsD mice was similar in magnitude and timing as that induced by the selective vasopressin receptor 2 agonist, desmopressin, in wild type mice. These findings demonstrate for the first time that targeted activation of Gs signaling exclusively in PCs is sufficient to increase ENaC activity and decrease dependent urinary Na+ excretion in live animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio G Soares
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Jorge Contreras
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Crystal R Archer
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Elena Mironova
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Rebecca Berdeaux
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - James D Stockand
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Tarek Mohamed Abd El-Aziz
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States.,Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Minia University, Minya, Egypt
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14
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Van Steenbergen V, Bareyre FM. Chemogenetic approaches to unravel circuit wiring and related behavior after spinal cord injury. Exp Neurol 2021; 345:113839. [PMID: 34389362 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2021.113839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
A critical shortcoming of the central nervous system is its limited ability to repair injured nerve connections. Trying to overcome this limitation is not only relevant to understand basic neurobiological principles but also holds great promise to advance therapeutic strategies related, in particular, to spinal cord injury (SCI). With barely any SCI patients re-gaining complete neurological function, there is a high need to understand how we could target and improve spinal plasticity to re-establish neuronal connections into a functional network. The development of chemogenetic tools has proven to be of great value to understand functional circuit wiring before and after injury and to correlate novel circuit formation with behavioral outcomes. This review covers commonly used chemogenetic approaches based on metabotropic receptors and their use to improve our understanding of circuit wiring following spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Van Steenbergen
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Florence M Bareyre
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; Munich Cluster of Systems Neurology (SyNergy), 81377 Munich, Germany.
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15
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Ozawa A, Arakawa H. Chemogenetics drives paradigm change in the investigation of behavioral circuits and neural mechanisms underlying drug action. Behav Brain Res 2021; 406:113234. [PMID: 33741409 PMCID: PMC8110310 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Recent developments in chemogenetic approaches to the investigation of brain function have ushered in a paradigm change in the strategy for drug and behavior research and clinical drug-based medications. As the nature of the drug action is based on humoral regulation, it is a challenge to identify the neuronal mechanisms responsible for the expression of certain targeted behavior induced by drug application. The development of chemogenetic approaches has allowed researchers to control neural activities in targeted neurons through a toolbox, including engineered G protein-coupled receptors or ligand-gated ion channels together with exogenously inert synthetic ligands. This review provides a brief overview of the chemogenetics toolbox with an emphasis on the DREADDs (Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs) technique used in rodent models, which is applicable to the investigation of how specific neural circuits regulate behavioral processes. The use of chemogenetics has had a significant impact on basic neuroscience for a better understanding of the relationships between brain activity and the expression of behaviors with cell- and circuit-specific orders. Furthermore, chemogenetics is potentially a useful tool to deconstruct the neuropathological mechanisms of mental diseases and its regulation by drug, and provide us with transformative therapeutics with medication. We also review recent findings in the use of chemogenetic techniques to uncover functional circuit connections of serotonergic neurons in rodent models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiko Ozawa
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Hiroyuki Arakawa
- Department of Psychology, Tokiwa University, Mito, Ibaraki, Japan; Department of Systems Physiology, University of Ryukyus, Faculty of Medicine, Nakagami District, Okinawa, Japan.
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16
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Meister J, Wang L, Pydi SP, Wess J. Chemogenetic approaches to identify metabolically important GPCR signaling pathways: Therapeutic implications. J Neurochem 2021; 158:603-620. [PMID: 33540469 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
DREADDs (Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by a Designer Drug) are designer G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that are widely used in the neuroscience field to modulate neuronal activity. In this review, we will focus on DREADD studies carried out with genetically engineered mice aimed at elucidating signaling pathways important for maintaining proper glucose and energy homeostasis. The availability of muscarinic receptor-based DREADDs endowed with selectivity for one of the four major classes of heterotrimeric G proteins (Gs , Gi , Gq , and G12 ) has been instrumental in dissecting the physiological and pathophysiological roles of distinct G protein signaling pathways in metabolically important cell types. The novel insights gained from this work should inform the development of novel classes of drugs useful for the treatment of several metabolic disorders including type 2 diabetes and obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaroslawna Meister
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lei Wang
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sai P Pydi
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jürgen Wess
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
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17
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Wess J. Designer GPCRs as Novel Tools to Identify Metabolically Important Signaling Pathways. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:706957. [PMID: 34354673 PMCID: PMC8329487 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.706957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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18
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Soto PL. Single‐case experimental designs for behavioral neuroscience. J Exp Anal Behav 2020; 114:447-467. [DOI: 10.1002/jeab.633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul L. Soto
- Department of Psychology Louisiana State University
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19
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Wang L, Zhu L, Meister J, Bone DBJ, Pydi SP, Rossi M, Wess J. Use of DREADD Technology to Identify Novel Targets for Antidiabetic Drugs. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2020; 61:421-440. [PMID: 32746768 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-030220-121042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) form a superfamily of plasma membrane receptors that couple to four major families of heterotrimeric G proteins, Gs, Gi, Gq, and G12. GPCRs represent excellent targets for drug therapy. Since the individual GPCRs are expressed by many different cell types, the in vivo metabolic roles of a specific GPCR expressed by a distinct cell type are not well understood. The development of designer GPCRs known as DREADDs (designer receptors exclusively activated by a designer drug) that selectively couple to distinct classes of heterotrimeric G proteins has greatly facilitated studies in this area. This review focuses on the use of DREADD technology to explore the physiological and pathophysiological roles of distinct GPCR/G protein cascades in several metabolically important cell types. The novel insights gained from these studies should stimulate the development of GPCR-based treatments for major metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA;
| | - Lu Zhu
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA;
| | - Jaroslawna Meister
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA;
| | - Derek B J Bone
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA;
| | - Sai P Pydi
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA;
| | - Mario Rossi
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA;
| | - Jürgen Wess
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA;
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Hong SZ, Huang S, Severin D, Kirkwood A. Pull-push neuromodulation of cortical plasticity enables rapid bi-directional shifts in ocular dominance. eLife 2020; 9:e54455. [PMID: 32432545 PMCID: PMC7239653 DOI: 10.7554/elife.54455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuromodulatory systems are essential for remodeling glutamatergic connectivity during experience-dependent cortical plasticity. This permissive/enabling function of neuromodulators has been associated with their capacity to facilitate the induction of Hebbian forms of long-term potentiation (LTP) and depression (LTD) by affecting cellular and network excitability. In vitro studies indicate that neuromodulators also affect the expression of Hebbian plasticity in a pull-push manner: receptors coupled to the G-protein Gs promote the expression of LTP at the expense of LTD, and Gq-coupled receptors promote LTD at the expense of LTP. Here we show that pull-push mechanisms can be recruited in vivo by pairing brief monocular stimulation with pharmacological or chemogenetical activation of Gs- or Gq-coupled receptors to respectively enhance or reduce neuronal responses in primary visual cortex. These changes were stable, inducible in adults after the termination of the critical period for ocular dominance plasticity, and can rescue deficits induced by prolonged monocular deprivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Z Hong
- Mind/Brain Institute, Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Shiyong Huang
- Mind/Brain Institute, Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Daniel Severin
- Mind/Brain Institute, Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Alfredo Kirkwood
- Mind/Brain Institute, Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreUnited States
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreUnited States
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21
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Kaiser E, Tian Q, Wagner M, Barth M, Xian W, Schröder L, Ruppenthal S, Kaestner L, Boehm U, Wartenberg P, Lu H, McMillin SM, Bone DBJ, Wess J, Lipp P. DREADD technology reveals major impact of Gq signalling on cardiac electrophysiology. Cardiovasc Res 2020; 115:1052-1066. [PMID: 30321287 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvy251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Revised: 06/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Signalling via Gq-coupled receptors is of profound importance in many cardiac diseases such as hypertrophy and arrhythmia. Nevertheless, owing to their widespread expression and the inability to selectively stimulate such receptors in vivo, their relevance for cardiac function is not well understood. We here use DREADD technology to understand the role of Gq-coupled signalling in vivo in cardiac function. METHODS AND RESULTS We generated a novel transgenic mouse line that expresses a Gq-coupled DREADD (Dq) in striated muscle under the control of the muscle creatine kinase promotor. In vivo injection of the DREADD agonist clozapine-N-oxide (CNO) resulted in a dose-dependent, rapid mortality of the animals. In vivo electrocardiogram data revealed severe cardiac arrhythmias including lack of P waves, atrioventricular block, and ventricular tachycardia. Following Dq activation, electrophysiological malfunction of the heart could be recapitulated in the isolated heart ex vivo. Individual ventricular and atrial myocytes displayed a positive inotropic response and arrhythmogenic events in the absence of altered action potentials. Ventricular tissue sections revealed a strong co-localization of Dq with the principal cardiac connexin CX43. Western blot analysis with phosphor-specific antibodies revealed strong phosphorylation of a PKC-dependent CX43 phosphorylation site following CNO application in vivo. CONCLUSION Activation of Gq-coupled signalling has a major impact on impulse generation, impulse propagation, and coordinated impulse delivery in the heart. Thus, Gq-coupled signalling does not only modulate the myocytes' Ca2+ handling but also directly alters the heart's electrophysiological properties such as intercellular communication. This study greatly advances our understanding of the plethora of modulatory influences of Gq signalling on the heart in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Kaiser
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Qinghai Tian
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Michael Wagner
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Monika Barth
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Wenying Xian
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Laura Schröder
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Sandra Ruppenthal
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Lars Kaestner
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Wartenberg
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Huiyan Lu
- Mouse Transgenic Core Facility, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sara M McMillin
- Molecular Signaling Section, Lab. of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Derek B J Bone
- Molecular Signaling Section, Lab. of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jürgen Wess
- Molecular Signaling Section, Lab. of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Peter Lipp
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
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22
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Tian X, Richard A, El-Saadi MW, Bhandari A, Latimer B, Van Savage I, Holmes K, Klein RL, Dwyer D, Goeders NE, Yang XW, Lu XH. Dosage sensitivity intolerance of VIPR2 microduplication is disease causative to manifest schizophrenia-like phenotypes in a novel BAC transgenic mouse model. Mol Psychiatry 2019; 24:1884-1901. [PMID: 31444475 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-019-0492-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2018] [Revised: 06/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified copy number variations (CNVs) at chromosomal locus 7q36.3 that significantly contribute to the risk of schizophrenia, with all of the microduplications occurring within a single gene: vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor 2 (VIPR2). To confirm disease causality and translate such a genetic vulnerability into mechanistic and pathophysiological insights, we have developed a series of conditional VIPR2 bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) transgenic mouse models of VIPR2 CNV. VIPR2 CNV mouse model recapitulates gene expression and signaling deficits seen in human CNV carriers. VIPR2 microduplication in mice elicits prominent dorsal striatal dopamine dysfunction, cognitive, sensorimotor gating, and social behavioral deficits preceded by an increase of striatal cAMP/PKA signaling and the disrupted early postnatal striatal development. Genetic removal of VIPR2 transgene expression via crossing with Drd1a-Cre BAC transgenic mice rescued the dopamine D2 receptor abnormality and multiple behavioral deficits, implicating a pathogenic role of VIPR2 overexpression in dopaminoceptive neurons. Thus, our results provide further evidence to support the GWAS studies that the dosage sensitivity intolerance of VIPR2 is disease causative to manifest schizophrenia-like dopamine, cognitive, and social behavioral deficits in mice. The conditional BAC transgenesis offers a novel strategy to model CNVs with a gain-of -copies and facilitate the genetic dissection of when/where/how the genetic vulnerabilities affect development, structure, and function of neural circuits. Our findings have important implications for therapeutic development, and the etiology-relevant mouse model provides a useful preclinical platform for drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinli Tian
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, 71130, USA
| | - Adam Richard
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, 71130, USA
| | - Madison Wynne El-Saadi
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, 71130, USA
| | - Aakriti Bhandari
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, 71130, USA
| | - Brian Latimer
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, 71130, USA
| | - Isabella Van Savage
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, 71130, USA
| | - Kevlyn Holmes
- California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
| | - Ronald L Klein
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, 71130, USA
| | - Donard Dwyer
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, 71130, USA
| | - Nicholas E Goeders
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, 71130, USA
| | - X William Yang
- Center for Neurobehavioral Genetics, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Human Behaviors, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Xiao-Hong Lu
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, 71130, USA.
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23
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Akhmedov D, Kirkby NS, Mitchell JA, Berdeaux R. Imaging of Tissue-Specific and Temporal Activation of GPCR Signaling Using DREADD Knock-In Mice. Methods Mol Biol 2019; 1947:361-376. [PMID: 30969428 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-9121-1_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Engineered G protein-coupled receptors (DREADDs, designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs) are convenient tools for specific activation of GPCR signaling in many cell types. DREADDs have been utilized as research tools to study numerous cellular and physiologic processes, including regulation of neuronal activity, behavior, and metabolism. Mice with random insertion transgenes and adeno-associated viruses have been widely used to express DREADDs in individual cell types. We recently created and characterized ROSA26-GsDREADD knock-in mice to allow Cre recombinase-dependent expression of a Gαs-coupled DREADD (GsD) fused to GFP in distinct cell populations in vivo. These animals also harbor a CREB-activated luciferase reporter gene for analysis of CREB activity by in vivo imaging, ex vivo imaging, or biochemical reporter assays. In this chapter, we provide detailed methods for breeding GsD animals, inducing GsD expression, stimulating GsD activity, and measuring basal and stimulated CREB reporter bioluminescence in tissues in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro. These animals are available from our laboratory for non-profit research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry Akhmedov
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nicholas S Kirkby
- Cardiothoracic Pharmacology, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jane A Mitchell
- Cardiothoracic Pharmacology, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Rebecca Berdeaux
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
- Program in Biochemistry and Cell Biology, MD Anderson Cancer Center-UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA.
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24
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Caron A, Reynolds RP, Castorena CM, Michael NJ, Lee CE, Lee S, Berdeaux R, Scherer PE, Elmquist JK. Adipocyte Gs but not Gi signaling regulates whole-body glucose homeostasis. Mol Metab 2019; 27:11-21. [PMID: 31279640 PMCID: PMC6717754 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2019.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is a key regulator of the metabolic and endocrine functions of adipose tissue. Increased SNS outflow promotes fat mobilization, stimulates non-shivering thermogenesis, promotes browning, and inhibits leptin production. Most of these effects are attributed to norepinephrine activation of the Gs-coupled beta adrenergic receptors located on the surface of the adipocytes. Evidence suggests that other adrenergic receptor subtypes, including the Gi-coupled alpha 2 adrenergic receptors might also mediate the SNS effects on adipose tissue. However, the impact of acute stimulation of adipocyte Gs and Gi has never been reported. Methods We harness the power of chemogenetics to develop unique mouse models allowing the specific and spatiotemporal stimulation of adipose tissue Gi and Gs signaling. We evaluated the impact of chemogenetic stimulation of these pathways on glucose homeostasis, lipolysis, leptin production, and gene expression. Results Stimulation of Gs signaling in adipocytes induced rapid and sustained hypoglycemia. These hypoglycemic effects were secondary to increased insulin release, likely consequent to increased lipolysis. Notably, we also observed differences in gene regulation and ex vivo lipolysis in different adipose depots. In contrast, acute stimulation of Gi signaling in adipose tissue did not affect glucose metabolism or lipolysis, but regulated leptin production. Conclusion Our data highlight the significance of adipose Gs signaling in regulating systemic glucose homeostasis. We also found previously unappreciated heterogeneity across adipose depots following acute stimulation. Together, these results highlight the complex interactions of GPCR signaling in adipose tissue and demonstrate the usefulness of chemogenetic technology to better understand adipocyte function. Chemogenetic stimulation of Gs signaling in adipose tissue potently induces hypoglycemia in mice. The magnitude by which adipose Gs stimulation reduces blood glucose is similar to the hypoglycemic effects of insulin. Chemogenetic stimulation of Gs signaling in adipose tissue ex vivo stimulates lipolysis. Chemogenetic stimulation of adipose Gi signaling does not affect glycemia or lipolysis, but increases leptin levels. Our data demonstrate the usefulness of chemogenetic technology to understand adipocytes functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Caron
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hypothalamic Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Ryan P Reynolds
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hypothalamic Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Carlos M Castorena
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hypothalamic Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Natalie J Michael
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hypothalamic Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Charlotte E Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hypothalamic Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Syann Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hypothalamic Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Rebecca Berdeaux
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, Center for Metabolic and Degenerative Diseases at the Brown Foundation, Institute of Molecular Medicine, McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Graduate Program in Biochemistry and Cell Biology, MD Anderson Cancer Center-UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Philipp E Scherer
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Joel K Elmquist
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hypothalamic Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
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25
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Selective activation of G s signaling in adipocytes causes striking metabolic improvements in mice. Mol Metab 2019; 27:83-91. [PMID: 31272886 PMCID: PMC6717953 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2019.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Revised: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Given the worldwide epidemics of obesity and type 2 diabetes, novel antidiabetic and appetite-suppressing drugs are urgently needed. Adipocytes play a central role in the regulation of whole-body glucose and energy homeostasis. The goal of this study was to examine the metabolic effects of acute and chronic activation of Gs signaling selectively in adipocytes (activated Gs stimulates cAMP production), both in lean and obese mice. Methods To address this question, we generated a novel mutant mouse strain (adipo-GsD mice) that expressed a Gs-coupled designer G protein-coupled receptor (Gs DREADD or short GsD) selectively in adipocytes. Importantly, the GsD receptor can only be activated by administration of an exogenous agent (CNO) that is otherwise pharmacologically inert. The adipo-GsD mice were maintained on either regular chow or a high-fat diet and then subjected to a comprehensive series of metabolic tests. Results Pharmacological (CNO) activation of the GsD receptor in adipocytes of adipo-GsD mice caused profound improvements in glucose homeostasis and protected mice against the metabolic deficits associated with the consumption of a calorie-rich diet. Moreover, chronic activation of Gs signaling in adipocytes led to a striking increase in energy expenditure and reduced food intake, resulting in a decrease in body weight and fat mass when mice consumed a calorie-rich diet. Conclusion Systematic studies with a newly developed mouse model enabled us to assess the metabolic consequences caused by acute or chronic activation of Gs signaling selectively in adipocytes. Most strikingly, chronic activation of this pathway led to reduced body fat mass and restored normal glucose homeostasis in obese mice. These findings are of considerable relevance for the development of novel antidiabetic and anti-obesity drugs. A novel mouse model allowed us to study the metabolic effects caused by activating Gs signaling selectively in adipocytes. Acute activation of this pathway caused numerous beneficial metabolic effects including improved glucose tolerance. Chronic activation of adipocyte Gs signaling reduced body fat mass and restored normal glucose homeostasis in obese mice. This anti-obesity effect was caused by a combination of enhanced energy expenditure and reduced calorie intake. These findings should stimulate the development of novel drugs useful for the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
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26
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Bone DBJ, Meister J, Knudsen JR, Dattaroy D, Cohen A, Lee R, Lu H, Metzger D, Jensen TE, Wess J. Skeletal Muscle-Specific Activation of G q Signaling Maintains Glucose Homeostasis. Diabetes 2019; 68:1341-1352. [PMID: 30936140 PMCID: PMC6610017 DOI: 10.2337/db18-0796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Skeletal muscle (SKM) insulin resistance plays a central role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. Because G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) represent excellent drug targets, we hypothesized that activation of specific functional classes of SKM GPCRs might lead to improved glucose homeostasis in type 2 diabetes. At present, little is known about the in vivo metabolic roles of the various distinct GPCR signaling pathways operative in SKM. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that selective activation of SKM Gq signaling can improve SKM glucose uptake and whole-body glucose homeostasis under physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Studies with transgenic mice expressing a Gq-linked designer GPCR selectively in SKM cells demonstrated that receptor-mediated activation of SKM Gq signaling greatly promoted glucose uptake into SKM and significantly improved glucose homeostasis in obese, glucose-intolerant mice. These beneficial metabolic effects required the activity of SKM AMPK. In contrast, obese mutant mice that lacked both Gαq and Gα11 selectively in SKM showed severe deficits in glucose homeostasis. Moreover, GPCR-mediated activation of Gq signaling also stimulated glucose uptake in primary human SKM cells. Taken together, these findings strongly suggest that agents capable of enhancing SKM Gq signaling may prove useful as novel antidiabetic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek B J Bone
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD
| | - Jaroslawna Meister
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD
| | - Jonas R Knudsen
- Section of Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Diptadip Dattaroy
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD
| | - Amanda Cohen
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD
| | - Regina Lee
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD
| | - Huiyan Lu
- Mouse Transgenic Core Facility, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD
| | - Daniel Metzger
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, CNRS UMR 7104, INSERM U1258, Université de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France
| | - Thomas E Jensen
- Section of Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jürgen Wess
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD
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27
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Guilherme A, Henriques F, Bedard AH, Czech MP. Molecular pathways linking adipose innervation to insulin action in obesity and diabetes mellitus. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2019; 15:207-225. [PMID: 30733616 PMCID: PMC7073451 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-019-0165-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Adipose tissue comprises adipocytes and many other cell types that engage in dynamic crosstalk in a highly innervated and vascularized tissue matrix. Although adipose tissue has been studied for decades, it has been appreciated only in the past 5 years that extensive arborization of nerve fibres has a dominant role in regulating the function of adipose tissue. This Review summarizes the latest literature, which suggests that adipocytes signal to local sensory nerve fibres in response to perturbations in lipolysis and lipogenesis. Such adipocyte signalling to the central nervous system causes sympathetic output to distant adipose depots and potentially other metabolic tissues to regulate systemic glucose homeostasis. Paracrine factors identified in the past few years that mediate such adipocyte-neuron crosstalk are also reviewed. Similarly, immune cells and endothelial cells within adipose tissue communicate with local nerve fibres to modulate neurotransmitter tone, blood flow, adipocyte differentiation and energy expenditure, including adipose browning to produce heat. This understudied field of neurometabolism related to adipose tissue biology has great potential to reveal new mechanistic insights and potential therapeutic strategies for obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adilson Guilherme
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Felipe Henriques
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Alexander H Bedard
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Michael P Czech
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
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28
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Kim ER, Fan S, Akhmedov D, Sun K, Lim H, O'Brien W, Xu Y, Mangieri LR, Zhu Y, Lee CC, Chung Y, Xia Y, Xu Y, Li F, Sun K, Berdeaux R, Tong Q. Red blood cell β-adrenergic receptors contribute to diet-induced energy expenditure by increasing O2 supply. JCI Insight 2017; 2:93367. [PMID: 28724789 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.93367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Diet-induced obesity (DIO) represents the major cause for the current obesity epidemic, but the mechanism underlying DIO is unclear. β-Adrenergic receptors (β-ARs) play a major role in sympathetic nervous system-mediated (SNS-mediated) diet-induced energy expenditure (EE). Rbc express abundant β-ARs; however, a potential role for rbc in DIO remains untested. Here, we demonstrated that high-fat, high-caloric diet (HFD) feeding increased both EE and blood O2 content, and the HFD-induced increases in blood O2 level and in body weight gain were negatively correlated. Deficiency of β-ARs in rbc reduced glycolysis and ATP levels, diminished HFD-induced increases in both blood O2 content and EE, and resulted in DIO. Importantly, specific activation of cAMP signaling in rbc promoted HFD-induced EE and reduced HFD-induced tissue hypoxia independent of obesity. Both HFD and pharmacological activation cAMP signaling in rbc led to increased glycolysis and ATP levels. These results identify a previously unknown role for rbc β-ARs in mediating the SNS action on HFD-induced EE by increasing O2 supply, and they demonstrate that HFD-induced EE is limited by blood O2 availability and can be augenmented by increased O2 supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Ran Kim
- Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine and University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shengjie Fan
- Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine and University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA.,School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Chinese Traditional Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dmitry Akhmedov
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, Graduate Program in Cell and Regulatory Biology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences
| | - Kaiqi Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Graduate Program in Biochemistry, and
| | - Hoyong Lim
- Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine and University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - William O'Brien
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Graduate Program in Biochemistry, and
| | - Yuanzhong Xu
- Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine and University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Leandra R Mangieri
- Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine and University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biological Sciences, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yaming Zhu
- Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine and University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Cheng-Chi Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Graduate Program in Biochemistry, and
| | - Yeonseok Chung
- Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine and University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yang Xia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Graduate Program in Biochemistry, and
| | - Yong Xu
- Children's Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, and
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kai Sun
- Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine and University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Rebecca Berdeaux
- Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine and University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, Graduate Program in Cell and Regulatory Biology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences
| | - Qingchun Tong
- Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine and University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biological Sciences, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
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