Functional regulation of thyroid hormone receptor variant TR alpha 2 by phosphorylation

RNA Sequencing Reveals a Strong Predominance of THRA Splicing Isoform 2 in the Developing and Adult Human Brain

Thyroid hormone receptor alpha (THRα) is a nuclear hormone receptor that binds triiodothyronine (T3) and acts as an important transcription factor in development, metabolism, and reproduction. In mammals, THRα has two major splicing isoforms, THRα1 and THRα2. The better-characterized isoform, THRα1, is a transcriptional stimulator of genes involved in cell metabolism and growth. The less-well-characterized isoform, THRα2, lacks the ligand-binding domain (LBD) and is thought to act as an inhibitor of THRα1 activity. The ratio of THRα1 to THRα2 splicing isoforms is therefore critical for transcriptional regulation in different tissues and during development. However, the expression patterns of both isoforms have not been studied in healthy human tissues or in the developing brain. Given the lack of commercially available isoform-specific antibodies, we addressed this question by analyzing four bulk RNA-sequencing datasets and two scRNA-sequencing datasets to determine the RNA expression levels of human THRA1 and THRA2 transcripts in healthy adult tissues and in the developing brain. We demonstrate how 10X Chromium scRNA-seq datasets can be used to perform splicing-sensitive analyses of isoforms that differ at the 3'-end. In all datasets, we found a strong predominance of THRA2 transcripts at all examined stages of human brain development and in the central nervous system of healthy human adults.

TRα2—An Untuned Second Fiddle or Fine-Tuning Thyroid Hormone Action?

Thyroid hormones (THs) control a wide range of physiological functions essential for metabolism, growth, and differentiation. On a molecular level, TH action is exerted by nuclear receptors (TRs), which function as ligand-dependent transcription factors. Among several TR isoforms, the function of TRα2 remains poorly understood as it is a splice variant of TRα with an altered C-terminus that is unable to bind T3. This review highlights the molecular characteristics of TRα2, proposed mechanisms that regulate alternative splicing and indications pointing towards an antagonistic function of this TR isoform in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, remaining knowledge gaps and major challenges that complicate TRα2 characterization, as well as future strategies to fully uncover its physiological relevance, are discussed.

What is the Role of Thyroid Hormone Receptor Alpha 2 (TRα2) in Human Physiology?

Thyroid hormone receptors are nuclear receptors that function as transcription factors and are regulated by thyroid hormones. To date, a number of variants and isoforms are known. This review focuses on the thyroid hormone receptor α (TRα), in particular TRα2, an isoform that arises from alternative splicing of the THRA mRNA transcript. Unlike the TRα1 isoform, which can bind T3, the TRα2 isoform lacks a ligand-binding domain but still binds to DNA thereby antagonizing the transcriptional activity of TRα1. Although a regulatory role has been proposed, the physiological function of this TRα2 antagonism is still unclear due to limited in vitro and mouse model data. Recently, the first patients with resistance to thyroid hormone due to mutations in THRA, the TRα encoding gene, affecting the antagonistic function of TRα2 were described, suggesting a significant role of this particular isoform in human physiology.

Thyroid hormone receptor phosphorylation regulates acute fasting-induced suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis

Fasting induces profound changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis. After binding thyroid hormone (TH), the TH receptor beta 2 isoform (THRB2) represses Trh and Tsh subunit genes and is the principle negative regulator of the HPT axis. Using mass spectrometry, we identified a major phosphorylation site in the AF-1 domain of THRB2 (serine 101, S101), which is conserved among many members of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily. More than 50% of THRB2 is phosphorylated at S101 in cultured thyrotrophs (TαT1.1) and in the mouse pituitary. All other THR isoforms lack this site and exhibit limited overall levels of phosphorylation. To determine the importance of THRB2 S101 phosphorylation, we used the TαT1.1 cell line and S101A mutant knock-in mice (Thrb2 ^S101A ). We found that TH promoted S101 THRB2 phosphorylation and was essential for repression of the axis at physiologic TH concentrations. In mice, THRB2 phosphorylation was also increased by fasting and mimicked Trh and Tshb repression by TH. In vitro studies demonstrated that a master metabolic sensor, AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) induced phosphorylation at the same site and caused Tshb repression independent of TH. Furthermore, we identified cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) as a direct kinase phosphorylating THRB2 S101 and propose that AMPK or TH increase S101 phosphorylation through the activity of CDK2. This study provides a physiologically relevant function for THR phosphorylation, which permits nutritional deprivation and TH to use a common mechanism for acute suppression of the HPT axis.

Thyroid hormone, gene expression, and Central Nervous System: Where we are

Thyroid hormones (TH; T3 and T4) play a fundamental role in the fetal stage to the adult phase, controlling gene and protein expression in virtually all tissues. The endocrine and CNS systems have relevant interaction, and the TH are pivotal for the proper functioning of the CNS. A slight failure to regulate TH availability during pregnancy and/or childhood can lead to neurological disorders, for example, autism and cognitive impairment, or depression. In this review, we highlight how TH acts in controlling gene expression, its role in the CNS, and what substances widely found in the environment can cause in this tissue. We highlight the role of Endocrine Disruptors used on an everyday basis in the processing of mRNAs responsible for neurodevelopment. We conclude that TH, more precisely T3, acts mainly throughout its nuclear receptors, that the deficiency of this hormone, either due to the lack of its main substrate iodine, or by to incorrect organification of T4 and T3 in the gland, or by a mutation in transporters, receptors and deiodinases may cause mild (dysregulated mood in adulthood) to severe neurological impairment (Allan-Herndon-Dudley syndrome, presented as early as childhood); T3 is responsible for the expression of numerous CNS genes related to oxygen transport, growth factors, myelination, cell maturation. Substances present in the environment and widely used can interfere with the functioning of the thyroid gland, the action of TH, and the functioning of the CNS.

A Direct Comparison of Thyroid Hormone Receptor Protein Levels in Mice Provides Unexpected Insights into Thyroid Hormone Action

Background: Thyroid hormone (TH) action is mediated by three major thyroid hormone receptor (THR) isoforms α1, β1, and β2 (THRA1, THRB1, and THRB2). These THRs and a fourth major but non-TH binding isoform, THRA2, are encoded by two genes Thra and Thrb. Reliable antibodies against all THR isoforms are not available, and THR isoform protein levels in mammalian tissues are often inferred from messenger RNA (mRNA) levels. Methods: We generated knock-in mouse models expressing endogenously and identically 2X hemagglutenin epitope (HA)-tagged THRs (THRA1/2, THRB1, and THRB2), which could then be detected by commercially available anti-HA antibodies. Using nuclear enrichment, immunoprecipitation, and Western blotting, we determined relative THR protein expression in 16 mouse organs. Results: In all peripheral organs tested except the liver, the predominant THR isoform was THRA1. Surprisingly, in metabolically active organs such as fat and muscle, THRB1 protein levels were up to 10 times lower than that of THRA1, while their mRNA levels appeared similar. In contrast to peripheral organs, the central nervous system (CNS) had a unique pattern with relatively low levels of both THRB1 and THRA1, and high levels of THRA2 expression. As expected, THRB2 was highly expressed in the pituitary, but a previously unknown sex-specific difference in THRB2 expression was found (female mice having higher pituitary expression than male mice). Higher THRB2 expression appears to make the central axis more sensitive to TH as both serum thyrotropin and Tshb mRNA levels were lower in female mice. Conclusions: Direct comparison of THR protein abundance in different organs using endogenously tagged HA-THR mouse lines shows that expression of THR isoforms is regulated at transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels, and in organ-specific manner. The prevalence of THRA1 and low abundance of THRB1 in majority of peripheral tissues suggest that peripheral actions of these isoforms should be revisited. A unique pattern of high THRA2 in CNS warrants further exploration of this non-TH binding isoform in brain development. Finally, THRB2, in addition to cell-specific control, is also regulated in a sex-specific manner, which may change the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis set point and perhaps metabolism in males and females.

Nongenomic Actions of Thyroid Hormone: The Integrin Component

The extracellular domain of plasma membrane integrin αvβ3 contains a cell surface receptor for thyroid hormone analogues. The receptor is largely expressed and activated in tumor cells and rapidly dividing endothelial cells. The principal ligand for this receptor is l-thyroxine (T₄), usually regarded only as a prohormone for 3,5,3'-triiodo-l-thyronine (T₃), the hormone analogue that expresses thyroid hormone in the cell nucleus via nuclear receptors that are unrelated structurally to integrin αvβ3. At the integrin receptor for thyroid hormone, T₄ regulates cancer and endothelial cell division, tumor cell defense pathways (such as anti-apoptosis), and angiogenesis and supports metastasis, radioresistance, and chemoresistance. The molecular mechanisms involve signal transduction via mitogen-activated protein kinase and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, differential expression of multiple genes related to the listed cell processes, and regulation of activities of other cell surface proteins, such as vascular growth factor receptors. Tetraiodothyroacetic acid (tetrac) is derived from T₄ and competes with binding of T₄ to the integrin. In the absence of T₄, tetrac and chemically modified tetrac also have anticancer effects that culminate in altered gene transcription. Tumor xenografts are arrested by unmodified and chemically modified tetrac. The receptor requires further characterization in terms of contributions to nonmalignant cells, such as platelets and phagocytes. The integrin αvβ3 receptor for thyroid hormone offers a large panel of cellular actions that are relevant to cancer biology and that may be regulated by tetrac derivatives.

De novo transcription of thyroid hormone receptors is essential for early bovine embryo development in vitro

Thyroid hormone receptor (THR) α and THRβ mediate the genomic action of thyroid hormones (THs) that affect bovine embryo development. However, little is known about THRs in the preimplantation embryo. The aim of the present study was to investigate the importance of THRs in in vitro preimplantation bovine embryos. THR transcripts and protein levels were detected in developing preimplantation embryos up to the blastocyst stage. Embryonic transcription of THRs was inhibited by α-amanitin supplementation, and both maternal and embryonic transcription were knocked down by short interference (si) RNA microinjection. In the control group, mRNA and protein levels of THRs increased after fertilisation. In contrast, in both the transcription inhibition and knockdown groups there were significant (P<0.05) decreases in mRNA expression of THRs from the 2-cell stage onwards. However, protein levels of THRs were not altered at 2-cell stage, although they did exhibit a significant (P<0.05) decrease from the 4-cell stage. Moreover, inhibition of de novo transcripts of THRs using siRNA led to a significant (P<0.01) decrease in the developmental rate and cell number, as well as inducing a change in embryo morphology. In conclusion, THRs are transcribed soon after fertilisation, before major activation of the embryonic genome, and they are essential for bovine embryo development in vitro.

Posttranslational Modification of Thyroid Hormone Nuclear Receptor by Phosphorylation

TR phosphorylation promotes TR binding to DNA and heterodimerization with RXR. TRβ phosphorylation is induced by thyroid hormone on the cell membrane and phosphorylation by extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), presumably at serine 142. TRα1 N-termini harbors two phosphorylation sites at serine 12 and serine 28/29. Serine 12 is phosphorylated by casein 2 and serine 28/29 by protein kinase A. Mutation analysis of TRα2 identified 2 serine sites, S472 and S473, as the substrates for casein kinase II. Phosphorylated TRα2 does not bind to DNA and dephosphorylated TRα binds to DNA and antagonizes TRα1 binding. Phosphorylation of TR is critical for TR function and T3 signaling and approaches to detection and analysis of phosphorylated TR are described.

New insights on thyroid hormone mediated regulation of herpesvirus infections

Thyroid hormone (T₃) has been suggested to participate in the regulation of herpesvirus replication during reactivation. Clinical observations and in vivo experiments suggest that T₃ are involved in the suppression of herpes virus replication. In vitro, differentiated LNCaP cells, a human neuron-like cells, further resisted HSV-1 replication upon addition of T₃. Previous studies indicate that T₃ controlled the expression of several key viral genes via its nuclear receptors in differentiated LNCaP cells. Additional observation showed that differentiated LNCaP cells have active PI3K signaling and inhibitor LY294002 can reverse T₃-mediated repression of viral replication. Active PI3K signaling has been linked to HSV-1 latency in neurons. The hypothesis is that, in addition to repressing viral gene transcription at the nuclear level, T₃ may influence PI3K signaling to control HSV-1 replication in human neuron-like cells. We review the genomic and non-genomic regulatory roles of T₃ by examining the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway gene expression profile changes in differentiated LNCaP cells under the influence of hormone. The results indicated that 15 genes were down-regulated and 22 genes were up-regulated in T₃-treated differentiated LNCaP cells in comparison to undifferentiated state. Of all these genes, casein kinase 2 (CK2), a key component to enhance PI3K signaling pathway, was significantly increased upon T₃ treatment only while the cells were differentiated. Further studies revealed that CK2 inhibitors tetrabrominated cinnamic acid (TBCA) and 4, 5, 6, 7-tetrabromo-2H-benzotriazole (TBB) both reversed the T₃-mediated repression of viral replication. Together these observations suggested a new approach to understanding the roles of T₃ in the complicated regulation of HSV-1 replication during latency and reactivation.

Thyroid hormone receptor α in breast cancer: prognostic and therapeutic implications

We determined the expression of two transcriptional variants of thyroid hormone receptor alpha (THRα1 and THRα2) in samples from a cohort of breast cancer patients and correlated expression levels with survival. 130 women who were diagnosed with invasive breast carcinoma between 2007 and 2008 were included. Representative sections of their tumours were analyzed in triplicate on a tissue microarray for expression of THRα1 and THRα2 by immunohistochemistry. The prognostic significance of THRα1 and THRα2 expression was assessed using Kaplan-Meier survival analyses, adjusted for known prognostic factors. Seventy-four percent of tumours had high expression of THRα1 (Allred score ≥6) and 40 % had high expression of THRα2. Expression of THRα2 correlated positively with ER expression (p < 0.001) and with PR expression (p < 0.001), but negatively with HER2 expression (p = 0.018). Patients with low THRα2 expression had inferior 5-year overall survival (75.3 %) compared to those with high expression (91.7 %; p = 0.06). In a multivariate model, high THRα2 expression was a significant and independent prognosticator of improved overall survival (HR = 0.84; 95 % CI 0.71-0.98). Many breast tumours express THRα2 at high levels and these patients experience improved survival. Thyroid hormone signalling may be important in a proportion of breast cancers and THRα2 expression may be a regulator of signalling in this pathway.

Resistance to thyroid hormone caused by a mutation in thyroid hormone receptor (TR)α1 and TRα2: clinical, biochemical, and genetic analyses of three related patients

BACKGROUND

The thyroid hormone receptor α gene (THRA) transcript is alternatively spliced to generate either thyroid hormone receptor (TR)α1 or a non-hormone-binding variant protein, TRα2, the function of which is unknown. Here, we describe the first patients identified with a mutation in THRA that affects both TRα1 and TRα2, and compare them with patients who have resistance to thyroid hormone owing to a mutation affecting only TRα1, to delineate the relative roles of TRα1 and TRα2.

METHODS

We did clinical, biochemical, and genetic analyses of an index case and her two sons. We assessed physical and radiological features, thyroid function, physiological and biochemical markers of thyroid hormone action, and THRA sequence.

FINDINGS

The patients presented in childhood with growth failure, developmental delay, and constipation, which improved after treatment with thyroxine, despite normal concentrations of circulating thyroid hormones. They had similar clinical (macrocephaly, broad faces, skin tags, motor dyspraxia, slow speech), biochemical (subnormal ratio of free thyroxine:free tri-iodothyronine [T3], low concentration of total reverse T3, high concentration of creatine kinase, mild anaemia), and radiological (thickened calvarium) features to patients with TRα1-mediated resistance to thyroid hormone, although our patients had a heterozygous mis-sense mutation (Ala263Val) in both TRα1 and TRα2 proteins. The Ala263Val mutant TRα1 inhibited the transcriptional function of normal receptor in a dominant-negative fashion. By contrast, function of Ala263Val mutant TRα2 matched its normal counterpart. In vitro, high concentrations of T3 restored transcriptional activity of Ala263Val mutant TRα1, and reversed the dominant-negative inhibition of its normal counterpart. High concentrations of T3 restored expression of thyroid hormone-responsive target genes in patient-derived blood cells.

INTERPRETATION

TRα1 seems to be the principal functional product of the THRA gene. Thyroxine treatment alleviates hormone resistance in patients with mutations affecting this gene, possibly ameliorating the phenotype. These findings will help the diagnosis and treatment of other patients with resistance to thyroid hormone resulting from mutations in THRA.

FUNDING

Wellcome Trust, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Marie Curie Actions, Foundation for Development of Internal Medicine in Europe.

Excess folate during adolescence suppresses thyroid function with permanent deficits in motivation and spatial memory

Cognitive and memory deficits can be caused or exacerbated by dietary folate deficiency, which has been combatted by the addition of folate to grains and dietary supplements. The recommended dose of the B9 vitamin folate is 400 µg/day for adolescents and non-pregnant adults, and consumption above the recommended daily allowance is not considered to be detrimental. However, the effects of excess folate have not been tested in adolescence when neuro and endocrine development suggest possible vulnerability to long-term cognitive effects. We administered folate-supplemented (8.0 mg folic acid/kg diet) or control lab chow (2.7 mg folic acid/kg diet) to rats ad libitum from 30 to 60 days of age, and subsequently tested their motivation and learning and memory in the Morris water maze. We found that folate-supplemented animals had deficits in motivation and spatial memory, but they showed no changes of the learning- and memory-related molecules growth-associated protein-43 or Gs-α subunit protein in the hippocampus. They had decreased levels of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) in the periphery and decreased protein levels of thyroid receptor-α1 and -α2 (TRα1 and TRα2) in the hippocampus. The latter may have been due to an observed increase of cytosine-phosphate-guanosine island methylation within the putative thyroid hormone receptor-α promoter, which we have mapped for the first time in the rat. Overall, folate supplementation in adolescence led to motivational and spatial memory deficits that may have been mediated by suppressed thyroid hormone function in the periphery and hippocampus.

Structure and expression of two nuclear receptor genes in marsupials: insights into the evolution of the antisense overlap between the α-thyroid hormone receptor and Rev-erbα

Background

Alternative processing of α-thyroid hormone receptor (TRα, NR1A1) mRNAs gives rise to two functionally antagonistic nuclear receptors: TRα1, the α-type receptor, and TRα2, a non-hormone binding variant that is found only in mammals. TRα2 shares an unusual antisense coding overlap with mRNA for Rev-erbα (NR1D1), another nuclear receptor protein. In this study we examine the structure and expression of these genes in the gray short-tailed opossum, Monodelphis domestica, in comparison with that of eutherian mammals and three other marsupial species, Didelphis virginiana, Potorous tridactylus and Macropus eugenii, in order to understand the evolution and regulatory role of this antisense overlap.

Results

The sequence, expression and genomic organization of mRNAs encoding TRα1 and Rev-erbα are very similar in the opossum and eutherian mammals. However, the sequence corresponding to the TRα2 coding region appears truncated by almost 100 amino acids. While expression of TRα1 and Rev-erbα was readily detected in all tissues of M. domestica ages 0 days to 18 weeks, TRα2 mRNA was not detected in any tissue or stage examined. These results contrast with the widespread and abundant expression of TRα2 in rodents and other eutherian mammals. To examine requirements for alternative splicing of TRα mRNAs, a series of chimeric minigenes was constructed. Results show that the opossum TRα2-specific 5' splice site sequence is fully competent for splicing but the sequence homologous to the TRα2 3' splice site is not, even though the marsupial sequences are remarkably similar to core splice site elements in rat.

Conclusions

Our results strongly suggest that the variant nuclear receptor isoform, TRα2, is not expressed in marsupials and that the antisense overlap between TRα and Rev-erbα thus is unique to eutherian mammals. Further investigation of the TRα and Rev-erbα genes in marsupial and eutherian species promises to yield additional insight into the physiological function of TRα2 and the role of the associated antisense overlap with Rev-erbα in regulating expression of these genes.

Ontogenetic profile of the expression of thyroid hormone receptors in rat and human corpora cavernosa of the penis

Introduction

In the last few years, various studies have underlined a correlation between thyroid function and male sexual function, hypothesizing a direct action of thyroid hormones on the penis.

Aim

To study the spatiotemporal distribution of mRNA for the thyroid hormone nuclear receptors (TR) α1, α2 and β in the penis and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) of the corpora cavernosa of rats and humans during development.

Methods

We used several molecular biology techniques to study the TR expression in whole tissues or primary cultures from human and rodent penile tissues of different ages.

Main Outcome Measure

We measured our data by semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) amplification, Northern blot and immunohistochemistry.

Results

We found that TRα1 and TRα2 are both expressed in the penis and in SMCs during ontogenesis without development-dependent changes. However, in the rodent model, TRβ shows an increase from 3 to 6 days post natum (dpn) to 20 dpn, remaining high in adulthood. The same expression profile was observed in humans. While the expression of TRβ is strictly regulated by development, TRα1 is the principal isoform present in corpora cavernosa, suggesting its importance in SMC function. These results have been confirmed by immunohistochemistry localization in SMCs and endothelial cells of the corpora cavernosa.

Conclusions

The presence of TRs in the penis provides the biological basis for the direct action of thyroid hormones on this organ. Given this evidence, physicians would be advised to investigate sexual function in men with thyroid disorders. Carosa E, Di Sante S, Rossi S, Castri A, D'Adamo F, Gravina GL, Ronchi P, Kostrouch Z, Dolci S, Lenzi A, and Jannini EA. Ontogenetic profile of the expression of thyroid hormone receptors in rat and human corpora cavernosa of the penis. J Sex Med 2010;7:1381–1390.

Hepatic regulation of fatty acid synthase by insulin and T3: evidence for T3 genomic and nongenomic actions

Fatty acid synthase (FAS) is a key enzyme of hepatic lipogenesis responsible for the synthesis of long-chain saturated fatty acids. This enzyme is mainly regulated at the transcriptional level by nutrients and hormones. In particular, glucose, insulin, and T(3) increase FAS activity, whereas glucagon and saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids decrease it. In the present study we show that, in liver, T(3) and insulin were able to activate FAS enzymatic activity, mRNA expression, and gene transcription. We localized the T(3) response element (TRE) that mediates the T(3) genomic effect, on the FAS promoter between -741 and -696 bp that mediates the T(3) genomic effect. We show that both T(3) and insulin regulate FAS transcription via this sequence. The TRE binds a TR/RXR heterodimer even in the absence of hormone, and this binding is increased in response to T(3) and/or insulin treatment. The use of H7, a serine/threonine kinase inhibitor, reveals that a phosphorylation mechanism is implicated in the transcriptional regulation of FAS in response to both hormones. Specifically, we show that T(3) is able to modulate FAS transcription via a nongenomic action targeting the TRE through the activation of a PI 3-kinase-ERK1/2-MAPK-dependent pathway. Insulin also targets the TRE sequence, probably via the activation of two parallel pathways: Ras/ERK1/2 MAPK and PI 3-kinase/Akt. Finally, our data suggest that the nongenomic actions of T(3) and insulin are probably common to several TREs, as we observed similar effects on a classical DR4 consensus sequence.

Molecular characterization and sex-related seasonal expression of thyroid receptor subtypes in goldfish

The thyroid hormones, acting through the nuclear thyroid receptors (TRs), play important roles in the growth and development of vertebrates. The present study investigated the molecular structure and season-related expression of the TR isoforms in the male and female goldfish pituitary, brain, liver, gonads, gut, heart, and muscle. Based on sequence alignment with other species, the results demonstrate the presence of: (1) a TRalpha (TRalpha-1) consisting of 1496 nucleotides encoding a 466 amino acid protein, (2) a novel splice variant of TRalpha (TRalpha-2) containing an out-of-frame deletion of 246 nucleotides in the ligand-binding domain consisting of 1251 nucleotides encoding a 378 amino acid protein, (3) a novel transcript resembling TRalpha, except for non-homology in the hinge region and a premature stop codon prior to the ligand-binding domain (TRalpha-truncated; 1418 nucleotides, 206 amino acid protein), and (4) TRbeta consisting of 1823 nucleotides encoding a 395 amino acid protein. The findings provide the first demonstration of the presence of a truncated TR isoform in non-mammalian vertebrates. In goldfish, the expression patterns for all TRs subtypes were found to be remarkably similar in both male and female, changing significantly before and during reproductive season. The results provide a frame work for better understanding of the functional significance of novel TR forms and TR subtypes in fish and other vertebrates.

Regulation of thyroid hormone receptor alpha2 RNA binding and subcellular localization by phosphorylation

Thyroid hormone receptor alpha2 (TRalpha2) is an alternative splice product of the TRalpha primary transcript whose unique carboxyl terminus does not bind T3 or activate transcription. The physiological function of TRalpha2 is unknown. We have found that TRalpha2 is a single stranded RNA binding protein and that the RNA binding domain localizes to a 41 amino acid region immediately distal to the second zinc finger. TRalpha2 contains a single protein kinase CK2 phosphorylation site in its amino terminus and potentially nine CK2 sites in its unique carboxyl terminus. In vitro CK2 treatment of TRalpha2 eliminated its RNA binding. Mutational analysis indicated that phosphorylations at the N- and C-terminal sites both contribute to this inhibitory effect. Cellular localization studies demonstrated that phosphorylated TRalpha2 is primarily cytoplasmic, whereas unphosphorylated TRalpha2 is primarily nuclear. Since RNA binding is a property of unphosphorylated TRalpha2, the TRalpha2-RNA interaction likely represents a nuclear function of TRalpha2.

Repression of PXR-mediated induction of hepatic CYP3A gene expression by protein kinase C

Pregnane X receptor (PXR, NR1I2) regulates the inducible expression of the 3A sub-family of cytochrome P450 genes (CYP3A). CYP3A enzymes are responsible for the oxidative metabolism of a wide array of endobiotic and xenobiotic compounds. Hepatic CYP3A gene expression is rapidly down-regulated during inflammation and sepsis. There are twelve protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms, classified into three subfamilies according to the structure of the N-terminal regulatory domain and their sensitivity to calcium and diacylglycerol. It is now well accepted that cytokine stimulation of hepatocytes increases intracellular PKC activity during inflammation and sepsis. We show here that protein kinase C alpha (PKC alpha) and phorbol ester-dependent PKC signaling dramatically repressed PXR activity in both, cell-based reporter gene assays and in hepatocytes. Moreover, treatment with the protein phosphatase PP1/PP2A inhibitor okadaic acid (OA) totally abolished PXR activity in reporter gene assays and in cultured hepatocytes. In mammalian two-hybrid assays, treatment with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) increased the strength of interaction between PXR and the nuclear receptor co-repressor protein (NCoR). Treatment with PMA also abolished the ligand-dependent interaction between PXR and the steroid receptor co-activator 1 protein (SRC1). Our findings suggest that activation of the protein kinase C signaling pathway represses PXR activity through alterations in PXR-protein co-factor complexes, possibly through direct alterations in the phosphorylation status of one or all of these proteins. In addition, our data potentially provide important insights into the molecular mechanism of the repression of hepatic CYP3A gene expression that occurs during the inflammatory response.

HER2/neu kinase-dependent modulation of androgen receptor function through effects on DNA binding and stability

Given the role of the EGFR/HER2 family of tyrosine kinases in breast cancer, we dissected the molecular basis of EGFR/HER2 kinase signaling in prostate cancer. Using the small molecule dual EGFR/HER2 inhibitor PKI-166, we show that the biologic effects of EGFR/HER-2 pathway inhibition are caused by reduced AR transcriptional activity. Additional genetic and pharmacologic experiments show that this modulation of AR function is mediated by the HER2/ERBB3 pathway, not by EGFR. This HER2/ERBB3 signal stabilizes AR protein levels and optimizes binding of AR to promoter/enhancer regions of androgen-regulated genes. Surprisingly, the downstream signaling pathway responsible for these effects appears to involve kinases other than Akt. These data suggest that the HER2/ERBB3 pathway is a critical target in hormone-refractory prostate cancer.

Mechanisms of thyroid hormone receptor-specific nuclear and extra nuclear actions

Triiodothyronine (T3) classically regulates gene expression by binding to high-affinity thyroid hormone receptors (TR) that recognize specific response elements in the promoters of T3-target genes and activate or repress transcription in response to hormone. However, a number of thyroid hormone effects occur rapidly and are unaffected by inhibitors of transcription and translation, suggesting that thyroid hormones may also mediate non-genomic actions. Such actions have been described in many tissues and cell types, including brown adipose tissue, the heart and pituitary. The site of non-genomic hormone action has been localized to the plasma membrane, cytoplasm and cellular organelles. These non-genomic actions include the regulation of ion channels, oxidative phosphorylation and mitochondrial gene transcription and involve the generation of intracellular secondary messengers and induction of [Ca(2+)](I), cyclic AMP or protein kinase signalling cascades. These observations have been interpreted to imply the presence of a specific, membrane associated, TR isoform or an unrelated high affinity membrane receptor for thyroid hormone. The recent identification of a progestin membrane receptor and the sub cellular targeted nuclear receptor isoforms ER46, mtRXR, mtPPAR, p28 and p46, has highlighted the potential importance of non-genomic actions of steroid hormones. Here we compare these recently identified receptors with the genomic, non-genomic and mitochondrial actions of thyroid hormones and consider their implications.

Physiological and molecular basis of thyroid hormone action

Thyroid hormones (THs) play critical roles in the differentiation, growth, metabolism, and physiological function of virtually all tissues. TH binds to receptors that are ligand-regulatable transcription factors belonging to the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily. Tremendous progress has been made recently in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie TH action. In this review, we present the major advances in our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of TH action and their implications for TH action in specific tissues, resistance to thyroid hormone syndrome, and genetically engineered mouse models.

Thyroxine promotes association of mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear thyroid hormone receptor (TR) and causes serine phosphorylation of TR

Activated nongenomically by l-thyroxine (T(4)), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) complexed in 10-20 min with endogenous nuclear thyroid hormone receptor (TRbeta1 or TR) in nuclear fractions of 293T cells, resulting in serine phosphorylation of TR. Treatment of cells with the MAPK kinase inhibitor, PD 98059, prevented both T(4)-induced nuclear MAPK-TR co-immunoprecipitation and serine phosphorylation of TR. T(4) treatment caused dissociation of TR and SMRT (silencing mediator of retinoid and thyroid hormone receptor), an effect also inhibited by PD 98059 and presumptively a result of association of nuclear MAPK with TR. Transfection into CV-1 cells of TR gene constructs in which one or both zinc fingers in the TR DNA-binding domain were replaced with those from the glucocorticoid receptor localized the site of TR phosphorylation by T(4)-activated MAPK to a serine in the second zinc finger of the TR DNA-binding domain. In an in vitro cell- and hormone-free system, purified activated MAPK phosphorylated recombinant human TRbeta1 (). Thus, T(4) activates MAPK and causes MAPK-mediated serine phosphorylation of TRbeta1 and dissociation of TR and the co-repressor SMRT.

The mechanism of action of thyroid hormones

Thyroid hormone is essential for normal development, differentiation, and metabolic balance. Thyroid hormone action is mediated by multiple thyroid hormone receptor isoforms derived from two distinct genes. The thyroid hormone receptors belong to a nuclear receptor superfamily that also includes receptors for other small lipophilic hormones. Thyroid hormone receptors function by binding to specific thyroid hormone-responsive sequences in promoters of target genes and by regulating transcription. Thyroid hormone receptors often form heterodimers with retinoid X receptors. Heterodimerization is regulated through distinct mechanisms that together determine the specificity and flexibility of the sequence recognition. Amino-terminal regions appear to modulate thyroid hormone receptor function in an isoform-dependent manner. Unliganded thyroid hormone receptor represses transcription through recruitment of a corepressor complex, which also includes Sin3A and histone deacetylase. Ligand binding alters the conformation of the thyroid hormone receptor in such a way as to release the corepressor complex and recruit a coactivator complex that includes multiple histone acetyltransferases, including a steroid receptor family coactivator, p300/CREB-binding protein-associated factor (PCAF), and CREB binding protein (CBP). The existence of histone-modifying activities in the transcriptional regulatory complexes indicates an important role of chromatin structure. Stoichiometric, structural, and sequence-specific rules for coregulator interaction are beginning to be understood, as are aspects of the tissue specificity of hormone action. Moreover, knockout studies suggest that the products of two thyroid hormone receptor genes mediate distinct functions in vivo. The increased understanding of the structure and function of thyroid hormone receptors and their interacting proteins has markedly clarified the molecular mechanisms of thyroid hormone action.

Functions of thyroid hormone receptors in mice

Thyroid hormone receptors (TRs) play a central role in mediating the actions of thyroid hormone in development and homeostasis in vertebrate species. The TRs are nuclear receptors that act as ligand-regulated transcription factors. There are two TR genes (TRalpha and TRbeta), each capable of generating different variant products, suggesting a potentially complex array of TR pathways. Targeted mutagenesis in the mouse has indicated that there are specific individual functions for the TR genes in vivo. The deletion of combinations of TRalpha and TRbeta variants has revealed that additional functions are convergently regulated by both TR genes and indicates that control of an extended range of functions is facilitated by a network of specific and common TR pathways. The TR-deficient mouse models have allowed investigation of the TR pathways underlying many functions of thyroid hormone and provide a unique perspective on receptor-mediated mechanisms of biological control.

Lithium administration affects gene expression of thyroid hormone receptors in rat brain

Even though lithium has received wide attention in the treatment of manic depressive illness, the mechanisms underlying its mood stabilizing effects are not understood. Lithium is known to interact with the thyroid axis and causes hypothyroidism in a subgroup of patients, which compromises its mood stabilizing effects. Since lithium was recently reported to alter thyroid hormone metabolism in the rat brain, the present study investigated whether these effects were mediated through regulation of thyroid hormone receptor (THR) gene expression. Adult male euthyroid rats were either given a diet containing 0.25% lithium or one without lithium for 14 days. Rats were sacrificed in the evening and RNA was isolated from different brain regions to quantitate the isoform specific mRNAs of THRs. Following 14 days of lithium treatment, THR alpha1 mRNA levels were increased in the cortex and decreased in hypothalamus; THR alpha2 mRNA levels were increased in the cortex and THR beta mRNA levels were decreased in the hypothalamus. No significant difference in the expression of these THR isoforms was observed in the hippocampus or cerebellum. Thus, chronic lithium treatment appeared to regulate THR gene expression in a subtype and region specific manner in the rat brain. It remains to be determined whether the observed effects of lithium on THR gene expression are related to its therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of bipolar disorder.

Cardiovascular phenotype and temperature control in mice lacking thyroid hormone receptor-beta or both alpha1 and beta

We have used a telemetry system to record heart rate, body temperature, electrocardiogram (ECG), and locomotor activity in awake, freely moving mice lacking thyroid hormone receptor (TR)-beta or TR-alpha1 and -beta (TR-alpha1/beta). The TR-alpha1/beta-deficient mice had a reduced heart rate compared with wild-type controls. The TR-beta-deficient mice showed an elevated heart rate, which, however, was unresponsive to thyroid hormone treatment regardless of hormonal serum levels. ECG revealed that the TR-beta-deficient mice had a shortened Q-Tend time in contrast to the TR-alpha1/beta-deficient mice, which exhibited prolonged P-Q and Q-Tend times. Mental or pharmacological stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system resulted in a parallel increase in heart rate in all animals. A single injection of a nonselective beta-adrenergic-receptor blocker resulted in a parallel decrease in all mice. The TR-alpha1/beta-deficient mice also had a 0.4 degrees C lower body temperature than controls, whereas no difference was observed in locomotor activity between the different strains of mice. Our present and previous results support the hypothesis that TR-alpha1 has a major role in determining heart rate under baseline conditions and body temperature and that TR-beta mediates a hormone-induced increase in heart rate.

Mice devoid of all known thyroid hormone receptors are viable but exhibit disorders of the pituitary-thyroid axis, growth, and bone maturation

Thyroid hormone (T3) has widespread functions in development and homeostasis, although the receptor pathways by which this diversity arises are unclear. Deletion of the T3 receptors TRalpha1 or TRbeta individually reveals only a small proportion of the phenotypes that arise in hypothyroidism, implying that additional pathways must exist. Here, we demonstrate that mice lacking both TRalpha1 and TRbeta (TRalpha1(-/-)beta-/-) display a novel array of phenotypes not found in single receptor-deficient mice, including an extremely hyperactive pituitary-thyroid axis, poor female fertility and retarded growth and bone maturation. These results establish that major T3 actions are mediated by common pathways in which TRalpha1 and TRbeta cooperate with or substitute for each other. Thus, varying the balance of use of TRalpha1 and TRbeta individually or in combination facilitates control of an extended spectrum of T3 actions. There was no evidence for any previously unidentified T3 receptors in TRalpha1(-/-)beta-/- mouse tissues. Compared to the debilitating symptoms of severe hypothyroidism, the milder overall phenotype of TRalpha1(-/-)beta-/- mice, lacking all known T3 receptors, indicates divergent consequences for hormone versus receptor deficiency. These distinctions suggest that T3-independent actions of T3 receptors, demonstrated previously in vitro, may be a significant function in vivo.

Functional analysis of activation and repression domains of the rainbow trout aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator (rtARNT) protein isoforms

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator (ARNT) protein is involved in many signaling pathways. Rainbow trout express isoforms of ARNT protein that are divergent in their C-terminal domains due to alternative RNA splicing. Rainbow trout ARNT(b) (rtARNT(b)) contains a C-terminal domain rich in glutamine and asparagine (QN), whereas the C-terminal domain of rtARNT(a) is rich in proline, serine, and threonine (PST). rtARNT(b) functions positively in AH receptor-mediated signaling, whereas rtARNT(a) functions negatively. Studies were performed to understand how changes in the C-terminal domains of the two rtARNT isoforms affect function. Deletion of the QN-rich C-terminal domain of rtARNT(b) did not affect function in aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR)-mediated signaling, whereas deletion of the PST-rich domain of rtARNT(a) restored function. Expression of the PST-rich domain on truncated rtARNT(b) or mouse ARNT (mARNT) reduced function of this protein by 50-80%. Gel shift assays revealed that the PST-rich domain affected AHR-mediated signaling by inhibiting DNA binding of the AHR*ARNT heterodimer. Gal4 transactivation assays revealed a potent transactivation domain in the QN-rich domain of rtARNT(b). In contrast, Gal4 proteins containing the PST-rich domain of rtARNT(a) did not transactivate because the proteins did not bind to DNA. Secondary structure analysis of the PST-rich domain revealed hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions. Truncation of the hydrophobic domain that spanned the final 20-40 amino acids of the rtARNT(a) restored function to the protein, suggesting that repressor function was related to protein misfolding or masking of the basic DNA binding domain. Functional diversity within the C-terminal domain is consistent with other negatively acting transcription factors and illustrates a common biological theme.

Screening methods for thyroid hormone disruptors

The U.S. Congress has passed legislation requiring the EPA to implement screening tests for identifying endocrine-disrupting chemicals. A series of workshops was sponsored by the EPA, the Chemical Manufacturers Association, and the World Wildlife Fund; one workshop focused on screens for chemicals that alter thyroid hormone function and homeostasis. Participants at this meeting identified and examined methods to detect alterations in thyroid hormone synthesis, transport, and catabolism. In addition, some methods to detect chemicals that bind to the thyroid hormone receptors acting as either agonists or antagonists were also identified. Screening methods used in mammals as well as other vertebrate classes were examined. There was a general consensus that all known chemicals which interfere with thyroid hormone function and homeostasis act by either inhibiting synthesis, altering serum transport proteins, or by increasing catabolism of thyroid hormones. There are no direct data to support the assertion that certain environmental chemicals bind and activate the thyroid hormone receptors; further research is indicated. In light of this, screening methods should reflect known mechanisms of action. Most methods examined, albeit useful for mechanistic studies, were thought to be too specific and therefore would not be applicable for broad-based screening. Determination of serum thyroid hormone concentrations following chemical exposure in rodents was thought to be a reasonable initial screen. Concurrent histologic evaluation of the thyroid would strengthen this screen. Similar methods in teleosts may be useful as screens, but would require indicators of tissue production of thyroid hormones. The use of tadpole metamorphosis as a screen may also be useful; however, this method requires validation and standardization prior to use as a broad-based screen.

Differential expression of thyroid hormone receptor isoforms by thyroid hormone and lithium in rat GH3 and B103 cells

BACKGROUND

The interaction between lithium, a mood stabilizer, and the thyroid axis has been extensively studied; however, the regulation of thyroid hormone receptors by lithium is yet to be investigated.

METHODS

To test whether lithium affects thyroid hormones at the receptor level, we examined the effects of lithium in combination with triiodothyronine (T3) on gene expression of thyroid hormone receptor isoforms in GH3 and B103 cells.

RESULTS

The pattern of expression as well as the magnitude of regulation of the different thyroid hormone receptor isoforms appeared to be cell line specific. Whereas T3 regulated all four isoforms in GH3 cells at both time points, T3 did not alter thyroid hormone receptor TR alpha 1 and TR alpha 2 mRNA in B103 cells. Addition of lithium to thyroid hormone-deficient GH3 cells decreased TR alpha 1, alpha 2, and beta 2 expression without affecting TR beta 1 expression at 2 but not 5 days. Addition of lithium to T3-treated GH3 cells did not further modulate gene expression of TR alpha 1, alpha 2, beta 1, or beta 2 when compared to cells treated with T3 alone. The effects of lithium in B103 cells appeared to be isoform specific as well as time dependent, since TR alpha 1 expression was selectively decreased in B103 cells, when treated with T3 in the presence of lithium.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study provides direct evidence that T3 and/or lithium regulate TR gene expression in vitro in a both time-dependent and cell line-specific manner.

Protein-protein interaction domains and the heterodimerization of thyroid hormone receptor variant alpha2 with retinoid X receptors

Heterodimerization between thyroid hormone receptors (TRs) and retinoid X receptors (RXRs) is mediated by a weak dimerization interface within the DNA- binding domains (DBDs) and a strong interface within the C-terminal ligand- binding domains of the receptors. Previous studies have shown that the conserved ninth heptad in the TR ligand-binding domain appears to play a critical role in heterodimerization with RXR. However, despite lacking the full ninth heptad, TR variant alpha2 (TRv alpha2) can heterodimerize with RXR on specific direct repeat response elements, but not on palindromic elements or in solution. Two possibilities may account for TRv alpha2-RXR heterodimerization on direct repeats. First, the DBD of TRv alpha2 may play a critical role in heterodimerization with RXR. Second, a specific sequence within the unique C terminus of TRv alpha2 may promote the formation of TRv alpha2-RXR heterodimers. In this study, we used receptor chimeras in which the DBD of RXR was replaced by either the TR DBD or an unrelated DBD from the metalloregulatory transcription factor AMT1 to address the role of the DBD dimerization interface in TRv alpha2-RXR heterodimerization. Gel mobility shift analyses showed that whereas TR alpha1 formed heterodimers with these chimeras, TRv alpha2 failed to do so. Deletion of the unique C terminus of TRv alpha2 had only a marginal effect on heterodimerization with RXR. Mutations within the DBD dimerization interface abolished heterodimerization of full-length TRv alpha2 with RXR but only marginally affected heterodimerization of full-length TR alpha1 with RXR. These data support the hypothesis that the TR-RXR DBD dimerization interface plays a critical role in TRv alpha2-RXR heterodimerization. Additional data show that the amino acid residues that make direct TR-RXR contacts within the DBDs also may play a role in receptor monomer binding to DNA, since mutations within these residues severely impair this interaction.

Transcriptional regulatory patterns of the myelin basic protein and malic enzyme genes by the thyroid hormone receptors alpha1 and beta1

While there is evidence that the two ubiquitously expressed thyroid hormone (T3) receptors, TRalpha1 and TRbeta1, have distinct functional specificities, the mechanism by which they discriminate potential target genes remains largely unexplained. In this study, we demonstrate that the thyroid hormone response elements (TRE) from the malic enzyme and myelin basic protein genes (METRE and MBPTRE) respectively, are not functionally equivalent. The METRE, which is a direct repeat motif with a 4-base pair gap between the two half-site hexamers binds thyroid hormone receptor as a heterodimer with 9-cis-retinoic acid receptor (RXR) and mediates a high T3-dependent activation in response to TRalpha1 or TRbeta1 in NIH3T3 cells. In contrast, the MBPTRE, which consists of an inverted palindrome formed by two hexamers spaced by 6 base pairs, confers an efficient transactivation by TRbeta1 but a poor transactivation by TRalpha1. While both receptors form heterodimers with RXR on MBPTRE, the poor transactivation by TRalpha1 correlates also with its ability to bind efficiently as a monomer. This monomer, which is only observed with TRalpha1 bound to MBPTRE, interacts neither with N-CoR nor with SRC-1, explaining its functional inefficacy. However, in Xenopus oocytes, in which RXR proteins are not detectable, the transactivation mediated by TRalpha1 and TRbeta1 is equivalent and independent of a RXR supply, raising the question of the identity of the thyroid hormone receptor partner in these cells. Thus, in mammalian cells, the binding characteristics of TRalpha1 to MBPTRE (i.e. high monomer binding efficiency and low transactivation activity) might explain the particular pattern of T3 responsiveness of MBP gene expression during central nervous system development.

Phosphorylation of thyroid hormone receptors by protein kinase A regulates DNA recognition by specific inhibition of receptor monomer binding

Thyroid hormone receptor (T3R) alpha-1 and its oncogenic derivative, the v-ERB A protein, are phosphorylated by cAMP-dependent protein kinase A. Although this phosphorylation appears to be necessary for the oncogenic properties of v-ERB A, the mechanism by which phosphorylation influences the functions of v-ERB A and of the normal T3R has not been established. The protein kinase A phosphorylation site in T3Ralpha-1 is within a domain that is known to contribute to the DNA recognition properties of these receptors. We therefore analyzed the effects of protein kinase A phosphorylation on DNA recognition by the normal T3Ralpha and by the v-ERB A oncoprotein. We report here that phosphorylation of these receptor derivatives does not significantly alter the overall affinity of receptor dimers for DNA. However, phosphorylation does notably alter DNA recognition by preventing, or greatly inhibiting, the ability of these receptors to bind to DNA as protein monomers. These studies suggest that the phosphorylation of T3Ralpha-1 and v-ERB A by protein kinase A may provide a means of altering promoter recognition through a post-translational modification.

Protein kinase CK2 ("casein kinase-2") and its implication in cell division and proliferation

Protein kinase CK2 (also termed casein kinase-2 or -II) is a ubiquitous Ser/Thr-specific protein kinase required for viability and for cell cycle progression. CK2 is especially elevated in proliferating tissues, either normal or transformed, and the expression of its catalytic subunit in transgenic mice is causative of lymphomas. CK2 is highly pleiotropic: more than 160 proteins phosphorylated by it at sites specified by multiple acidic residues are known. Despite its heterotetrameric structure generally composed by two catalytic (alpha and/or alpha') and two non catalytic beta-subunits, the regulation of CK2 is still enigmatic. A number of functional features of the beta-subunit which could cooperate to the modulation of CK2 targeting/activity will be discussed.

Ecdysteroid receptor and ultraspiracle from Chironomus tentans (Insecta) are phosphoproteins and are regulated differently by molting hormone

Three different isotypes of the ecdysteroid receptor (cEcR) (66, 68 and 70 kDa) and several molecular variants of the dimerization partner "ultraspiracle" (cUSP) (58-77 kDa) can be separated electrophoretically in homogenates of the epithelial cell line from Chironomus tentans. After phosphatase treatment the bands with the lowest electrophoretic mobility disappear in both cases. Phosphorylation occurs exclusively at ser/thr in EcR and USP. Binding studies with 3H-ponasterone A using 0.4 M NaCl extracts revealed two classes of high-affinity binding (KD1 = 0.47 and KD2 = 7.2 nM) competable either with 20-OH-ecdysone or muristerone A. At least KD2 and Bmax2 are unchanged after dephosphorylation. In hormonally naive cells a considerable part of EcR and USP is already present in nuclei. The phosphorylation pattern of both transcription factors is the same in cytosol and nuclear fractions. Incubation with 20-OH-ecdysone (1 microM, up to 4 days) does not alter the extent and mode of phosphorylation of EcR, although EcR concentration increases. In contrast USP concentration remains constant but phosphorylation is enhanced.

Abnormal heart rate and body temperature in mice lacking thyroid hormone receptor alpha 1

Thyroid hormone, acting through several nuclear hormone receptors, plays important roles in thermogenesis, lipogenesis and maturation of the neonatal brain. The receptor specificity for mediating these effects is largely unknown, and to determine this we developed mice lacking the thyroid hormone receptor TR alpha 1. The mice have an average heart rate 20% lower than that of control animals, both under normal conditions and after thyroid hormone stimulation. Electrocardiograms show that the mice also have prolonged QRS- and QTend-durations. The mice have a body temperature 0.5 degrees C lower than normal and exhibit a mild hypothyroidism, whereas their overall behavior and reproduction are normal. The results identify specific and important roles for TR alpha 1 in regulation of tightly controlled physiological functions, such as cardiac pacemaking, ventricular repolarisation and control of body temperature.

Active repression by thyroid hormone receptor splicing variant alpha2 requires specific regulatory elements in the context of native triiodothyronine-regulated gene promoters

Structural requirements for the inhibitory action of thyroid hormone receptor splicing variant alpha2 (TR alpha2) on T3/TRbeta1-mediated transactivation were investigated in native promoters of two T3-regulated genes: the brain-specific myelin basic protein (MBP) and the housekeeping malic enzyme (ME). T3/TRbeta1 transactivation of MBP256-chloramphenicol acetyl transferase (CAT) and ME315-CAT constructs was inhibited and unaffected by TR alpha2, respectively. In electrophoretic mobility shift assays, TR alpha2 bound MBP-thyroid response element (TRE) as a monomer but failed to interact with ME-TRE. Mutations of ME-TRE allowed TR alpha2 binding but not inhibition of T3/TRbeta1-mediated transactivation. In the context of the MBP promoter, replacement of MBP-TRE with ME-TRE or exchange of MBP TATA-like box with the ME GC-rich region spanning the transcription start site abolished TR alpha2 dominant negative action. Simultaneous introduction of both MBP-TRE and MBP TATA-like box in the context of ME promoter, however, triggered TR alpha2 inhibition of T3/TRbeta1 transactivation, indicating that these regulatory elements are necessary, but not individually sufficient, to mediate TR alpha2 dominant negative activity. Functional studies at low TR alpha2/TRbeta1 ratios revealed that binding to TRE facilitates TR alpha2 dominant negative action while prevention of DNA interaction by altering TR alpha2 P-box structure preserved TR alpha2 inhibitory effect, although with lower potency. In conclusion, the results suggest that, in native promoters of T3-regulated genes, a dual molecular mechanism, with DNA-binding dependent and DNA-binding independent components, underlies TR alpha2 dominant negative activity.

Transcriptional induction of RC3/neurogranin by thyroid hormone: differential neuronal sensitivity is not correlated with thyroid hormone receptor distribution in the brain

RC3/neurogranin is a calmodulin-binding protein kinase C substrate, located in dendritic spines of forebrain neurons. It has been implicated in post-synaptic signal transduction events involving Ca2+ and calmodulin leading to many forms of synaptic plasticity. RC3 gene expression is under developmental and physiological regulation. The main physiological regulator appears to be thyroid gland activity. Hypothyroidism decreased RC3 mRNA concentration in the brain of post-natal day 22 rats. The affected areas included layer 6 of cerebral cortex, layers 2-3 of retrosplenial cortex, dentate gyrus and the caudate whereas others were not affected by hypothyroidism, such as upper layers of cerebral cortex, the pyramidal layer of the hippocampus and the amygdala. A single administration of triiodothyronine (T3) induced a significant transcriptional increase of RC3 mRNA in hypothyroid rats, 24 h after administration. Differential sensitivity to thyroid hormone was not related to differential expression of T3 receptor isoforms or the T3 receptor inhibitory variant alpha2. Therefore, it is likely that cell sensitivity to thyroid hormone in the brain depends on T3 receptor-associated factors.

Phosphorylation of serine-167 on the human oestrogen receptor is important for oestrogen response element binding and transcriptional activation

We have studied the role of phosphorylation of the human oestrogen receptor (hOR; otherwise known as hER) at serine-167, which has been identified previously as the major oestrogen-induced phosphorylation site. We have tested transactivation by the hOR in yeast and cell-free transcription assays, and shown that mutation of serine-167 results in a 70% decrease in hOR-dependent transcription. Furthermore we explored the functional significance of phosphorylation at this site by hormone binding and DNA binding. DNA binding affinity was 10-fold lower when serine-167 was changed to alanine in the hOR. Cell-free transcription experiments showed that casein kinase II is the enzyme responsible for oestradiol-dependent phosphorylation of the hOR at serine-167. This suggests that a conformational change of the hOR must occur upon hormone binding that exposes serine-167 to casein kinase II, resulting in transactivation of oestrogen-responsive genes.

Identification of transcripts initiated from an internal promoter in the c-erbA alpha locus that encode inhibitors of retinoic acid receptor-alpha and triiodothyronine receptor activities

The thyroid hormone receptor-coding locus, c-erbA alpha, generates several mRNAs originating from a single primary transcript that undergoes alternative splicing. We have identified for the first time two new transcripts, called TRdelta alpha1 and TRdelta alpha2 [mRNA for isoform alpha1 and alpha2 of the T3 receptor (TR), respectively], whose transcription is initiated from an internal promoter located within intron 7 of the c-erbA alpha gene. These two new transcripts exhibit tissue-specific patterns of expression in the mouse. These two patterns are in sharp contrast with the expression patterns of the full-length transcripts generated from the c-erbA alpha locus. TR alpha1 and TRdelta alpha2 mRNAs encode N-terminally truncated isoforms of T3R alpha1 and T3R alpha2, respectively. The protein product of TRdelta alpha1 antagonizes the transcriptional activation elicited by T3 and retinoic acid. This protein inhibits the ligand-induced activating functions of T3R alpha1 and 9-cis-retinoic acid receptor-alpha but does not affect the retinoic acid-dependent activating function of retinoic acid receptor-alpha. We predict that these truncated proteins may work as down-regulators of transcriptional activity of nuclear hormone receptors in vivo.

Protein kinase A-dependent phosphorylation modulates DNA-binding activity of hepatocyte nuclear factor 4

Hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 (HNF4), a liver-enriched transcription factor of the nuclear receptor superfamily, is critical for development and liver-specific gene expression. Here, we demonstrate that its DNA-binding activity is modulated posttranslationally by phosphorylation in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro. In vivo, HNF4 DNA-binding activity is reduced by fasting and by inducers of intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) accumulation. A consensus protein kinase A (PKA) phosphorylation site located within the A box of its DNA-binding domain has been identified, and its role in phosphorylation-dependent inhibition of HNF4 DNA-binding activity has been investigated. Mutants of HNF4 in which two potentially phosphorylatable serines have been replaced by either neutral or charged amino acids were able to bind DNA in vitro with affinity similar to that of the wild-type protein. However, phosphorylation by PKA strongly repressed the binding affinity of the wild-type factor but not that of HNF4 mutants. Accordingly, in transfection assays, expression vectors for the mutated HNF4 proteins activated transcription more efficiently than that for the wild-type protein-when cotransfected with the PKA catalytic subunit expression vector. Therefore, HNF4 is a direct target of PKA which might be involved in the transcriptional inhibition of liver genes by cAMP inducers.