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Mao RT, Guo SQ, Zhang G, Li YD, Xu JP, Wang HY, Fu P, Liu CP, Wu SQ, Chen P, Mei YS, Jin QC, Liu CY, Zhang YCF, Ding XY, Liu WJ, Romanova EV, Zhou HB, Cropper EC, Checco JW, Sweedler JV, Jing J. Two C-terminal isoforms of Aplysia tachykinin-related peptide receptors exhibit phosphorylation-dependent and phosphorylation-independent desensitization mechanisms. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107556. [PMID: 39002683 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Diversity, a hallmark of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling, partly stems from alternative splicing of a single gene generating more than one isoform for a receptor. Additionally, receptor responses to ligands can be attenuated by desensitization upon prolonged or repeated ligand exposure. Both phenomena have been demonstrated and exemplified by the deuterostome tachykinin signaling system, although the role of phosphorylation in desensitization remains a subject of debate. Here, we describe the signaling system for tachykinin-related peptides (TKRPs) in a protostome, mollusk Aplysia. We cloned the Aplysia TKRP precursor, which encodes three TKRPs (apTKRP-1, apTKRP-2a, and apTKRP-2b) containing the FXGXR-amide motif. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry showed predominant expression of TKRP mRNA and peptide in the cerebral ganglia. TKRPs and their posttranslational modifications were observed in extracts of central nervous system ganglia using mass spectrometry. We identified two Aplysia TKRP receptors (apTKRPRs), named apTKRPR-A and apTKRPR-B. These receptors are two isoforms generated through alternative splicing of the same gene and differ only in their intracellular C termini. Structure-activity relationship analysis of apTKRP-2b revealed that both C-terminal amidation and conserved residues of the ligand are critical for receptor activation. C-terminal truncates and mutants of apTKRPRs suggested that there is a C-terminal phosphorylation-independent desensitization for both receptors. Moreover, apTKRPR-B also exhibits phosphorylation-dependent desensitization through the phosphorylation of C-terminal Ser/Thr residues. This comprehensive characterization of the Aplysia TKRP signaling system underscores the evolutionary conservation of the TKRP and TK signaling systems, while highlighting the intricacies of receptor regulation through alternative splicing and differential desensitization mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui-Ting Mao
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shi-Qi Guo
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guo Zhang
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Ya-Dong Li
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ju-Ping Xu
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hui-Ying Wang
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ping Fu
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Cui-Ping Liu
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shao-Qian Wu
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ping Chen
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu-Shuo Mei
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qing-Chun Jin
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Cheng-Yi Liu
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yan-Chu-Fei Zhang
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xue-Ying Ding
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei-Jia Liu
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Elena V Romanova
- Department of Chemistry and the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Hai-Bo Zhou
- School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Peng Cheng Laboratory, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Elizabeth C Cropper
- Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - James W Checco
- Department of Chemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA; The Nebraska Center for Integrated Biomolecular Communication (NCIBC), University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Jonathan V Sweedler
- Department of Chemistry and the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Jian Jing
- Department of Neurology and Medical Psychology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute for Brain Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Extracellular RNA, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Peng Cheng Laboratory, Shenzhen, China; Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA.
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2
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Radomsky T, Anderson RC, Millar RP, Newton CL. Restoring function to inactivating G protein-coupled receptor variants in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis 1. J Neuroendocrinol 2024:e13418. [PMID: 38852954 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are central to the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPG axis) and include the rhodopsin-like GPCR family members, neurokinin 3 receptor, kappa-opioid receptor, kisspeptin 1 receptor, gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor, and the gonadotropin receptors, luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor. Unsurprisingly, inactivating variants of these receptors have been implicated in a spectrum of reproductive phenotypes, including failure to undergo puberty, and infertility. Clinical induction of puberty in patients harbouring such variants is possible, but restoration of fertility is not always a realisable outcome, particularly for those patients suffering from primary hypogonadism. Thus, novel pharmaceuticals and/or a fundamental change in approach to treating these patients are required. The increasing wealth of data describing the effects of coding-region genetic variants on GPCR function has highlighted that the majority appear to be dysfunctional as a result of misfolding of the encoded receptor protein, which, in turn, results in impaired receptor trafficking through the secretory pathway to the cell surface. As such, these intracellularly retained receptors may be amenable to 'rescue' using a pharmacological chaperone (PC)-based approach. PCs are small, cell permeant molecules hypothesised to interact with misfolded intracellularly retained proteins, stabilising their folding and promoting their trafficking through the secretory pathway. In support of the use of this approach as a viable therapeutic option, it has been observed that many rescued variant GPCRs retain at least a degree of functionality when 'rescued' to the cell surface. In this review, we examine the GPCR PC research landscape, focussing on the rescue of inactivating variant GPCRs with important roles in the HPG axis, and describe what is known regarding the mechanisms by which PCs restore trafficking and function. We also discuss some of the merits and obstacles associated with taking this approach forward into a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarryn Radomsky
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Ross C Anderson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Robert P Millar
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Claire L Newton
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Adamczuk K, Ngo TH, Czapiński J, Rivero-Müller A. Glycoprotein-glycoprotein Receptor Binding Detection Using Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer. Endocrinology 2024; 165:bqae052. [PMID: 38679471 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqae052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
The glycoprotein receptors, members of the large G protein-coupled receptor family, are characterized by a large extracellular domains responsible for binding their glycoprotein hormones. Hormone-receptor interactions are traditionally analyzed by ligand-binding assays, most often using radiolabeling but also by thermal shift assays. Despite their high sensitivity, these assays require appropriate laboratory conditions and, often, purified plasma cell membranes, which do not provide information on receptor localization or activity because the assays typically focus on measuring binding only. Here, we apply bioluminescence resonance energy transfer in living cells to determine hormone-receptor interactions between a Gaussia luciferase (Gluc)-luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin receptor (LHCGR) fusion and its ligands (human chorionic gonadotropin or LH) fused to the enhanced green fluorescent protein. The Gluc-LHCGR, as well as other Gluc-G protein-coupled receptors such as the somatostatin and the C-X-C motif chemokine receptors, is expressed on the plasma membrane, where luminescence activity is equal to membrane receptor expression, and is fully functional. The chimeric enhanced green fluorescent protein-ligands are properly secreted from cells and able to bind and activate the wild-type LHCGR as well as the Gluc-LHCGR. Finally, bioluminescence resonance energy transfer was used to determine the interactions between clinically relevant mutations of the hormones and the LHCGR that show that this bioassay provides a fast and effective, safe, and cost-efficient tool to assist the molecular characterization of mutations in either the receptor or ligand and that it is compatible with downstream cellular assays to determine receptor activation/function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Adamczuk
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Thu Ha Ngo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jakub Czapiński
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Adolfo Rivero-Müller
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
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Xu Y, Wang E, Liu T, Wang S, Wu F, Zhao X, Wang A. Whole exome sequencing identifies a novel homozygous missense mutation of LHCGR gene in primary infertile women with empty follicle syndrome. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2023; 49:2436-2445. [PMID: 37462066 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15747] [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: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
AIM The genetic basis of empty follicle syndrome (EFS) is largely unknown, and the aim of this study was to investigate the genetic causes of EFS in primary infertile women. METHODS Four affected women diagnosed with anovulation were recruited, and whole exome sequencing (WES) was requested for the genetic diagnosis of the cases. One hundred healthy controls were verified by Sanger sequencing. RESULTS A novel homozygous variant of the LHCGR gene (NM_000233:c.1847C>A) was revealed in one affected individual by WES. Trios analysis of the mutation revealed an autosomal recessive pattern. This LHCGR variant was absent in 100 healthy controls and predicted to be highly damaging to the function of LHCGR. CONCLUSIONS The novel variant extends the mutational spectrum of the LHCGR gene associated with female sterility, which promotes the prognostic value of testing for LHCGR mutations in infertile women with EFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Linyi People's Hospital, Shandong University, Linyi, China
| | - Enhua Wang
- Teaching and Research Office of Medical Genetics, Shandong Medical College, Linyi, China
| | - Tianfeng Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, China
| | - Surong Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, China
| | - Fengxia Wu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiangyu Zhao
- Department of Medical Genetics, Linyi People's Hospital, Shandong University, Linyi, China
| | - Ancong Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Linyi People's Hospital, Shandong University, Linyi, China
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5
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Errico A, Vinco S, Ambrosini G, Dalla Pozza E, Marroncelli N, Zampieri N, Dando I. Mitochondrial Dynamics as Potential Modulators of Hormonal Therapy Effectiveness in Males. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12040547. [PMID: 37106748 PMCID: PMC10135745 DOI: 10.3390/biology12040547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide the incidence of andrological diseases is rising every year and, together with it, also the interest in them is increasing due to their strict association with disorders of the reproductive system, including impairment of male fertility, alterations of male hormones production, and/or sexual function. Prevention and early diagnosis of andrological dysfunctions have long been neglected, with the consequent increase in the incidence and prevalence of diseases otherwise easy to prevent and treat if diagnosed early. In this review, we report the latest evidence of the effect of andrological alterations on fertility potential in both young and adult patients, with a focus on the link between gonadotropins' mechanism of action and mitochondria. Indeed, mitochondria are highly dynamic cellular organelles that undergo rapid morphological adaptations, conditioning a multitude of aspects, including their size, shape, number, transport, cellular distribution, and, consequently, their function. Since the first step of steroidogenesis takes place in these organelles, we consider that mitochondria dynamics might have a possible role in a plethora of signaling cascades, including testosterone production. In addition, we also hypothesize a central role of mitochondria fission boost on the decreased response to the commonly administrated hormonal therapy used to treat urological disease in pediatric and adolescent patients as well as infertile adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Errico
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Biochemistry Section, University of Verona, 37100 Verona, Italy
| | - Sara Vinco
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Biochemistry Section, University of Verona, 37100 Verona, Italy
| | - Giulia Ambrosini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Biochemistry Section, University of Verona, 37100 Verona, Italy
| | - Elisa Dalla Pozza
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Biochemistry Section, University of Verona, 37100 Verona, Italy
| | - Nunzio Marroncelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Biochemistry Section, University of Verona, 37100 Verona, Italy
| | - Nicola Zampieri
- Department of Engineering and Innovation Medicine, Paediatric Fertility Lab, Woman and Child Hospital, Division of Pediatric Surgery, University of Verona, 37100 Verona, Italy
| | - Ilaria Dando
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Biochemistry Section, University of Verona, 37100 Verona, Italy
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Alla A, Ongoth FEM, Tahiri A, Karrou M, Rouf S, Benhaddou H, Kamaoui I, Mcelreavey K, Latrech H. Novel homozygous inactivating mutation in the luteinizing hormone receptor gene ( LHCGR) associated with 46, XY DSD in a Moroccan family. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2022; 35:1215-1221. [PMID: 35670320 DOI: 10.1515/jpem-2021-0717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We present the first cases of two male brothers with Leydig cell hypoplasia secondary to a novel mutation in the LHCGR gene that has never been described before. CASE PRESENTATION We report the case of two brothers with Leydig cell hypoplasia (LCH) type II caused by novel homozygous inactivating mutation of the LHCGR gene, located in exon 10 in c 947 position. The two patients presented at 11 years 7 months and 1 year 6 months, respectively, with abnormal sexual development, micropenis and cryptorchidism. Genetic analysis revealed a homozygous deletion of approximately 4 bp encompassing exon 10 of the LHR gene in the two brothers indicating autosomal recessive inheritance. An hCG stimulation test induced testosterone secretion within the normal range. Subsequently, a treatment with enanthate of testosterone was started, with an increase in the length of the penis. CONCLUSIONS Leydig cell hypoplasia is a rare form of disorder of sex development. We report the occurrence of a new mutation of the LHCGR gene in two Moroccan brothers in whom the clinical features and the molecular diagnosis were correlated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achwak Alla
- Department of Endocrinology-Diabetology, Mohammed VI University Hospital Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed I University, Oujda, Morocco
| | - Farel Elilie Mawa Ongoth
- Department of Endocrinology-Diabetology, Mohammed VI University Hospital Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed I University, Oujda, Morocco
| | - Abir Tahiri
- Department of Endocrinology-Diabetology, Mohammed VI University Hospital Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed I University, Oujda, Morocco
| | - Marouan Karrou
- Department of Endocrinology-Diabetology, Mohammed VI University Hospital Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed I University, Oujda, Morocco
| | - Siham Rouf
- Department of Endocrinology-Diabetology, Mohammed VI University Hospital Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed I University, Oujda, Morocco
| | - Houssain Benhaddou
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Mohammed VI University Hospital Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed I University, Oujda, Morocco
| | - Imane Kamaoui
- Department of Radiology, Mohammed VI University Hospital Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed I University, Oujda, Morocco
| | | | - Hanane Latrech
- Department of Endocrinology-Diabetology, Mohammed VI University Hospital Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed I University, Oujda, Morocco.,Laboratory of Epidemiology, clinical Research and Public health, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed I University, Oujda, Morocco
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AI protein structure prediction-based modeling and mutagenesis of a protostome receptor and peptide ligands reveal key residues for their interaction. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102440. [PMID: 36049520 PMCID: PMC9562341 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The protostome leucokinin (LK) signaling system, including LK peptides and their G protein-coupled receptors, has been characterized in several species. Despite progress in this area, molecular mechanisms governing LK peptide-receptor interactions remain to be elucidated. Previously, we identified a precursor protein for Aplysia leucokinin-like peptides (ALKs) that contains the greatest number of amidated peptides among LK precursors in all species identified so far. Here, we identified the first ALK receptor from Aplysia, ALKR. We used cell-based IP1 activation assays to demonstrate that the two ALK peptides with the most copies, ALK1 and ALK2, activated ALKR with high potencies. Other endogenous ALK-derived peptides bearing the FXXWX-amide motif also activated ALKR to various degrees. Our examination of cross-species activity of ALKs with the Anopheles LKR was consistent with a critical role for the FXXWX-amide motif in receptor activity. Furthermore, we showed, through alanine substitution of ALK1, the highly conserved phenylalanine (F), tryptophan (W), and C-terminal amidation were each essential for receptor activation. Finally, we used an AI-based protein structure prediction server (Robetta) and Autodock Vina to predict the ligand-bound conformation of ALKR. Our model predicted several interactions (i.e., hydrophobic interactions, hydrogen bonds, and amide-pi stacking) between ALK peptides and ALKR, and several of our substitution and mutagenesis experiments were consistent with the predicted model. In conclusion, our results provide important information defining the possible interactions between ALK peptides and their receptors. The workflow utilized here may be useful for studying other ligand-receptor interactions for a neuropeptide signaling system, particularly in protostomes.
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Sharif S, Vakili S, Mobini M, Lotfi M, Zarei F, Abbaszadegan MR, Vakili R. A novel variant luteinizing hormone receptor in the first transmembrane helix of two homozygous Iranian patients: case report. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL HUMAN GENETICS 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43042-022-00305-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Leydig cell hypoplasia (LCH) is a rare autosomal recessive endocrine syndrome that affects the normal development of male external genitalia in 46, XY individuals and is one of the causes of disorder of sexual differentiation (DSD) in males. The responsible gene of LCH is LHCGR which is located on the chromosome 2 and its various mutations lead to different degrees of the disease ranging from micropenis to complete XY DSD.
Case presentation
In this study, we have investigated the clinical presentation and molecular findings of two siblings with complete male LCH and XY DSD. This is the first detailed report of individuals with LCH from Iran. It aimed to study the molecular and clinical characteristics of two sisters with type 1 LCH. Whole exome sequencing was used for these patients to find the underlying genetic cause of the disease. Our Iranian DSD patients had external genitalia (normal labia major and minor, the external opening of the urethra beneath the clitoris) and bilateral testicular tissues in the inguinal region, which were removed by surgical exploration.
Conclusions
Genetic sequencing showed the homozygous variants of the LHCGR gene in the patients, a novel duplication variant in exon 11, c.1091dupT -or pLeu365Profs*5. This mutation is described as likely pathogenic. We think that this case report can widen the genotypic spectrum of the LHCGR variants. Moreover, this study emphasizes the significant rule of Whole Exome Sequencing in differentiating various causes of disorder of sexual differentiation.
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Anderson RC, Hanyroup S, Song YB, Mohamed-Moosa Z, van den Bout I, Schwulst AC, Kaiser UB, Millar RP, Newton CL. Functional Rescue of Inactivating Mutations of the Human Neurokinin 3 Receptor Using Pharmacological Chaperones. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094587. [PMID: 35562976 PMCID: PMC9100388 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) facilitate the majority of signal transductions across cell membranes in humans, with numerous diseases attributed to inactivating GPCR mutations. Many of these mutations result in misfolding during nascent receptor synthesis in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), resulting in intracellular retention and degradation. Pharmacological chaperones (PCs) are cell-permeant small molecules that can interact with misfolded receptors in the ER and stabilise/rescue their folding to promote ER exit and trafficking to the cell membrane. The neurokinin 3 receptor (NK3R) plays a pivotal role in the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal reproductive axis. We sought to determine whether NK3R missense mutations result in a loss of cell surface receptor expression and, if so, whether a cell-permeant small molecule NK3R antagonist could be repurposed as a PC to restore function to these mutants. Quantitation of cell surface expression levels of seven mutant NK3Rs identified in hypogonadal patients indicated that five had severely impaired cell surface expression. A small molecule NK3R antagonist, M8, increased cell surface expression in four of these five and resulted in post-translational receptor processing in a manner analogous to the wild type. Importantly, there was a significant improvement in receptor activation in response to neurokinin B (NKB) for all four receptors following their rescue with M8. This demonstrates that M8 may have potential for therapeutic development in the treatment of hypogonadal patients harbouring NK3R mutations. The repurposing of existing small molecule GPCR modulators as PCs represents a novel and therapeutically viable option for the treatment of disorders attributed to mutations in GPCRs that cause intracellular retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross C. Anderson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0031, South Africa; (S.H.); (Z.M.-M.); (I.v.d.B.); (A.C.S.); (R.P.M.); (C.L.N.)
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0031, South Africa
- Correspondence:
| | - Sharika Hanyroup
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0031, South Africa; (S.H.); (Z.M.-M.); (I.v.d.B.); (A.C.S.); (R.P.M.); (C.L.N.)
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0031, South Africa
| | - Yong Bhum Song
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Y.B.S.); (U.B.K.)
- Division of Research Center, Scripps Korea Antibody Institute, Chuncheon 24341, Korea
| | - Zulfiah Mohamed-Moosa
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0031, South Africa; (S.H.); (Z.M.-M.); (I.v.d.B.); (A.C.S.); (R.P.M.); (C.L.N.)
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0031, South Africa
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Pretoria 0110, South Africa
| | - Iman van den Bout
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0031, South Africa; (S.H.); (Z.M.-M.); (I.v.d.B.); (A.C.S.); (R.P.M.); (C.L.N.)
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0031, South Africa
| | - Alexis C. Schwulst
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0031, South Africa; (S.H.); (Z.M.-M.); (I.v.d.B.); (A.C.S.); (R.P.M.); (C.L.N.)
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0031, South Africa
| | - Ursula B. Kaiser
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Y.B.S.); (U.B.K.)
| | - Robert P. Millar
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0031, South Africa; (S.H.); (Z.M.-M.); (I.v.d.B.); (A.C.S.); (R.P.M.); (C.L.N.)
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0031, South Africa
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Observatory 7925, South Africa
- Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, UK
- School of Medicine, Medical and Biological Sciences Building, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9TF, UK
| | - Claire L. Newton
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0031, South Africa; (S.H.); (Z.M.-M.); (I.v.d.B.); (A.C.S.); (R.P.M.); (C.L.N.)
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Pretoria 0031, South Africa
- Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, UK
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10
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Rivero-Müller A, Huhtaniemi I. Genetic variants of gonadotrophins and their receptors: Impact on the diagnosis and management of the infertile patient. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 36:101596. [PMID: 34802912 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2021.101596] [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: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This narrative review is concerned with genetic variants of the genes encoding gonadotrophin subunits and their receptors, as well as their implications into the diagnosis and treatment of infertility. We first review briefly the basics of molecular biology and biochemistry of gonadotrophin and gonadotrophin receptor structure and function, then describe the phenotypic effects of polymorphisms and mutations of these genes, followed by diagnostic aspects. We will then summarise the information that inactivating gonadotrophin receptor mutations have provided about the controversial topic of extragonadal gonadotrophin action. Finally, we will close with the current and future therapeutic approaches on patients with gonadotrophin and their receptor mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adolfo Rivero-Müller
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, 20-093, Poland
| | - Ilpo Huhtaniemi
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK.
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11
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Hanyroup S, Anderson RC, Nataraja S, Yu HN, Millar RP, Newton CL. Rescue of Cell Surface Expression and Signaling of Mutant Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Receptors. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6311857. [PMID: 34192304 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) underlie numerous diseases. Many cause receptor misfolding and failure to reach the cell surface. Pharmacological chaperones are cell-permeant small molecules that engage nascent mutant GPCRs in the endoplasmic reticulum, stabilizing folding and "rescuing" cell surface expression. We previously demonstrated rescue of cell surface expression of luteinizing hormone receptor mutants by an allosteric agonist. Here we demonstrate that a similar approach can be employed to rescue mutant follicle-stimulating hormone receptors (FSHRs) with poor cell surface expression using a small-molecule FSHR agonist, CAN1404. Seventeen FSHR mutations described in patients with reproductive dysfunction were expressed in HEK 293T cells, and cell surface expression was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of epitope-tagged FSHRs before/after treatment with CAN1404. Cell surface expression was severely reduced to ≤18% of wild-type (WT) for 11, modestly reduced to 66% to 84% of WT for 4, and not reduced for 2. Of the 11 with severely reduced cell surface expression, restoration to ≥57% of WT levels was achieved for 6 by treatment with 1 µM CAN1404 for 24 h, and a corresponding increase in FSH-induced signaling was observed for 4 of these, indicating restored functionality. Therefore, CAN1404 acts as a pharmacological chaperone and can rescue cell surface expression and function of certain mutant FSHRs with severely reduced cell surface expression. These findings aid in advancing the understanding of the effects of genetic mutations on GPCR function and provide a proof of therapeutic principle for FSHR pharmacological chaperones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharika Hanyroup
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Ross C Anderson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | | | - Robert P Millar
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- School of Medicine, Medical and Biological Sciences Building, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Claire L Newton
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Ulloa-Aguirre A, Zariñán T, Jardón-Valadez E. Misfolded G Protein-Coupled Receptors and Endocrine Disease. Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Prospects. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212329. [PMID: 34830210 PMCID: PMC8622668 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Misfolding of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) caused by mutations frequently leads to disease due to intracellular trapping of the conformationally abnormal receptor. Several endocrine diseases due to inactivating mutations in GPCRs have been described, including X-linked nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, thyroid disorders, familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia, obesity, familial glucocorticoid deficiency [melanocortin-2 receptor, MC2R (also known as adrenocorticotropin receptor, ACTHR), and reproductive disorders. In these mutant receptors, misfolding leads to endoplasmic reticulum retention, increased intracellular degradation, and deficient trafficking of the abnormal receptor to the cell surface plasma membrane, causing inability of the receptor to interact with agonists and trigger intracellular signaling. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms whereby mutations in GPCRs involved in endocrine function in humans lead to misfolding, decreased plasma membrane expression of the receptor protein, and loss-of-function diseases, and also describe several experimental approaches employed to rescue trafficking and function of the misfolded receptors. Special attention is given to misfolded GPCRs that regulate reproductive function, given the key role played by these particular membrane receptors in sexual development and fertility, and recent reports on promising therapeutic interventions targeting trafficking of these defective proteins to rescue completely or partially their normal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Ulloa-Aguirre
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México and Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, Mexico City 14080, Mexico;
- Correspondence:
| | - Teresa Zariñán
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México and Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, Mexico City 14080, Mexico;
| | - Eduardo Jardón-Valadez
- Departamento de Recursos de la Tierra, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Lerma, Lerma de Villada 52005, Estado de México, Mexico;
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Kapczuk K, Kędzia W. Primary Amenorrhea Due to Anatomical Abnormalities of the Reproductive Tract: Molecular Insight. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111495. [PMID: 34768925 PMCID: PMC8584168 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital anomalies of the female reproductive tract that present with primary amenorrhea involve Müllerian aplasia, also known as Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome (MRKHS), and cervical and vaginal anomalies that completely obstruct the reproductive tract. Karyotype abnormalities do not exclude the diagnosis of MRKHS. Familial cases of Müllerian anomalies and associated malformations of the urinary and skeletal systems strongly suggest a complex genetic etiology, but so far, the molecular mechanism in the vast majority of cases remains unknown. Primary amenorrhea may also be the first presentation of complete androgen insensitivity syndrome, steroid 5α-reductase type 2 deficiency, 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 deficiency, and Leydig cells hypoplasia type 1; therefore, these disorders should be considered in the differential diagnosis of the congenital absence of the uterus and vagina. The molecular diagnosis in the majority of these cases can be established.
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Newton CL, Anderson RC, Kreuchwig A, Krause G, Katz AA, Millar RP. Rescue of Function of Mutant Luteinising Hormone Receptors with Deficiencies in Cell Surface Expression, Hormone Binding, and Hormone Signalling. Neuroendocrinology 2021; 111:451-464. [PMID: 32316022 DOI: 10.1159/000508000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) mutations are implicated in many diseases. Most inactivating mutations cause receptor misfolding and prevent trafficking to the plasma membrane. Pharmacological chaperones can "rescue" cell surface expression of such mutants, presumably by stabilising correct folding of the nascent protein. OBJECTIVE Here we examine the scope of intracellularly retained luteinising hormone receptor (LHR) mutants that can be "rescued" by the pharmacological chaperone LHR-Chap, and whether this allosteric agonist can also restore the function of mutant LHRs with deficiencies in hormone binding or hormone-induced signalling. METHODS Mutant LHRs were expressed in HEK 293-T cells. Cell surface expression/localisation, hormone binding, and hCG/LHR-Chap signalling were determined by ELISA, radioligand binding, and inositol phosphate accumulation assays, respectively. Molecular modelling predicted LHR-Chap interactions. RESULTS LHR-Chap increased cell surface expression of a subset of retained mutants located in transmembrane helices predicted to be stabilised by LHR-Chap binding. For 3 (T4613.47I, L5024.61P, and S6167.46Y) hCG-responsiveness was increased following treatment. LHRs with mutations in the hormone-binding site (C131ECDR and I152ECDT) or in the hinge region (E354HingeK) had good cell surface expression but poor response to hormone stimulation, yet were responsive to allosteric activation by LHR-Chap. CONCLUSIONS LHR-Chap, in addition to rescuing cell surface expression of intracellularly retained LHR mutants, can rescue function in mutant receptors with binding and signalling deficiencies that have normal cell surface expression. This demonstration of rescue of multiple elements of LHR dysfunction arising from inactivating mutations offers exceptional potential for treating patients with diseases arising from GPCR mutations in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Louise Newton
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa,
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa,
- Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom,
| | - Ross Calley Anderson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Annika Kreuchwig
- Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP), Berlin, Germany
| | - Gerd Krause
- Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP), Berlin, Germany
| | - Arieh Anthony Katz
- UCT Receptor Biology Research Unit and SAMRC Gynaecology Cancer Research Centre, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Robert Peter Millar
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
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Aktar Karakaya A, Unal E, Beştaş A, Taş F, Onay H, Haspolat YK. A novel variant in LCHGR gene in 3 siblings with type 1 Leydig cell hypoplasia. Gynecol Endocrinol 2020; 36:1136-1139. [PMID: 32654531 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2020.1789859] [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] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Leydig cell hypoplasia (LCH) is an autosomal recessive disease that causes 46, XY sex development disorder. The patients with LCH are usually in the female phenotype and are presented with the complaints of no breast development and primary amenorrhea. In this article, the cases of three siblings who presented with primary amenorrhea and who had LCH were presented. CASE A 16-year-old patient with female phenotype is presented with primary amenorrhea. Breast development was at Tanner stage 1, the external genitalia were completely in female phenotype. The karyotype was determined as 46, XY. The hormonal analyses revealed that the testosterone synthesis was insufficient despite the high level of luteinizing hormone (LH). Cortisol, ACTH, 17-Hydroxyprogesterone, and AMH levels were normal. LCH diagnosis was considered in the patient with elevated LH and no testosterone synthesis. A new mutation of homozygous c.161 + 4A > G was detected in LHCGR gene. The same mutation was detected in the patient's two siblings with female phenotype and 46, XY karyotype. CONCLUSION In patients presenting with primary amenorrhea and karyotype 46, XY, there is no testosterone synthesis and if there is LH elevation, LCH should be considered. We found a novel variant in the LHCGR gene in three siblings with karyotype 46, XY and female phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amine Aktar Karakaya
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Dicle University, Diyarbakir, Turkey
| | - Edip Unal
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Dicle University, Diyarbakir, Turkey
| | - Aslı Beştaş
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Dicle University, Diyarbakir, Turkey
| | - Funda Taş
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Dicle University, Diyarbakir, Turkey
| | - Hüseyin Onay
- Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Genetics, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Kenan Haspolat
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Dicle University, Diyarbakir, Turkey
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Althumairy D, Zhang X, Baez N, Barisas G, Roess DA, Bousfield GR, Crans DC. Glycoprotein G-protein Coupled Receptors in Disease: Luteinizing Hormone Receptors and Follicle Stimulating Hormone Receptors. Diseases 2020; 8:E35. [PMID: 32942611 PMCID: PMC7565105 DOI: 10.3390/diseases8030035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Signal transduction by luteinizing hormone receptors (LHRs) and follicle-stimulating hormone receptors (FSHRs) is essential for the successful reproduction of human beings. Both receptors and the thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor are members of a subset of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) described as the glycoprotein hormone receptors. Their ligands, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) and a structurally related hormone produced in pregnancy, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), are large protein hormones that are extensively glycosylated. Although the primary physiologic functions of these receptors are in ovarian function and maintenance of pregnancy in human females and spermatogenesis in males, there are reports of LHRs or FSHRs involvement in disease processes both in the reproductive system and elsewhere. In this review, we evaluate the aggregation state of the structure of actively signaling LHRs or FSHRs, their functions in reproduction as well as summarizing disease processes related to receptor mutations affecting receptor function or expression in reproductive and non-reproductive tissues. We will also present novel strategies for either increasing or reducing the activity of LHRs signaling. Such approaches to modify signaling by glycoprotein receptors may prove advantageous in treating diseases relating to LHRs or FSHRs function in addition to furthering the identification of new strategies for modulating GPCR signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duaa Althumairy
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (D.A.); (G.B.)
- Department of Biological Sciences, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Xiaoping Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (X.Z.); (N.B.)
| | - Nicholas Baez
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (X.Z.); (N.B.)
| | - George Barisas
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (D.A.); (G.B.)
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (X.Z.); (N.B.)
| | - Deborah A. Roess
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
| | - George R. Bousfield
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS 67260, USA;
| | - Debbie C. Crans
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (D.A.); (G.B.)
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (X.Z.); (N.B.)
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Zhang Z, Wu L, Diao F, Chen B, Fu J, Mao X, Yan Z, Li B, Mu J, Zhou Z, Wang W, Zhao L, Dong J, Zeng Y, Du J, Kuang Y, Sun X, He L, Sang Q, Wang L. Novel mutations in LHCGR (luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor): expanding the spectrum of mutations responsible for human empty follicle syndrome. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:2861-2868. [PMID: 32860205 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01931-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To screen novel mutations in LHCGR responsible for empty follicle syndrome and explore the pathological mechanism of mutations. METHODS Four affected individuals diagnosed with infertility-associated anovulation or oligo-ovulation from three independent families were recruited. Sanger sequencing was used to identify the LHCGR mutations in affected individuals. Western blot was performed to evaluate the effects of mutations on LHCGR protein levels. Immunofluorescence was done to explore the effects of mutations on LHCGR subcellular localization. The ATP levels were measured to infer the functional effects of the mutations on LHCGR. RESULTS In the present study, three novel biallelic mutations in LHCGR were identified in four affected individuals from three independent families with empty follicle syndrome or oligo-ovulation. All biallelic mutations were inherited from the proband of their parents. The western blot showed that the identified mutations decreased LHCGR protein level and altered the glycosylation pattern. The immunofluorescence showed an ectopic subcellular localization of LHCGR in cultured HeLa cells. Besides, the mutations in LHCGR also reduced the cellular ATP consumption. CONCLUSION These findings confirm previous studies and expand the mutational spectrum of LHCGR, which will provide genetic diagnostic marker for patients with empty follicle syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihua Zhang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ling Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai Ninth Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Feiyang Diao
- The State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Biaobang Chen
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jing Fu
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xiaoyan Mao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai Ninth Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Zheng Yan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai Ninth Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Bin Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai Ninth Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Jian Mu
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zhou Zhou
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lin Zhao
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jie Dong
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yang Zeng
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jing Du
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yanping Kuang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai Ninth Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xiaoxi Sun
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Lin He
- Bio-X Center, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Qing Sang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Zhuhai Fudan Innovation Institute, Zhuhai, 519000, Guangdong, China.
| | - Lei Wang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Zhuhai Fudan Innovation Institute, Zhuhai, 519000, Guangdong, China. .,Shanghai Center for Women and Children's Health, Shanghai, 200062, China.
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Matsushima N, Takatsuka S, Miyashita H, Kretsinger RH. Leucine Rich Repeat Proteins: Sequences, Mutations, Structures and Diseases. Protein Pept Lett 2019; 26:108-131. [PMID: 30526451 DOI: 10.2174/0929866526666181208170027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Revised: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in the genes encoding Leucine Rich Repeat (LRR) containing proteins are associated with over sixty human diseases; these include high myopia, mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, and Crohn's disease. These mutations occur frequently within the LRR domains and within the regions that shield the hydrophobic core of the LRR domain. The amino acid sequences of fifty-five LRR proteins have been published. They include Nod-Like Receptors (NLRs) such as NLRP1, NLRP3, NLRP14, and Nod-2, Small Leucine Rich Repeat Proteoglycans (SLRPs) such as keratocan, lumican, fibromodulin, PRELP, biglycan, and nyctalopin, and F-box/LRR-repeat proteins such as FBXL2, FBXL4, and FBXL12. For example, 363 missense mutations have been identified. Replacement of arginine, proline, or cysteine by another amino acid, or the reverse, is frequently observed. The diverse effects of the mutations are discussed based on the known structures of LRR proteins. These mutations influence protein folding, aggregation, oligomerization, stability, protein-ligand interactions, disulfide bond formation, and glycosylation. Most of the mutations cause loss of function and a few, gain of function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norio Matsushima
- Center for Medical Education, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan.,Institute of Tandem Repeats, Noboribetsu 059-0464, Japan
| | - Shintaro Takatsuka
- Center for Medical Education, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Hiroki Miyashita
- Institute of Tandem Repeats, Noboribetsu 059-0464, Japan.,Hokubu Rinsho Co., Ltd, Sapporo 060-0061, Japan
| | - Robert H Kretsinger
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States
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19
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Yan M, Dilihuma J, Luo Y, Reyilanmu B, Shen Y, Mireguli M. Novel Compound Heterozygous Variants in the LHCGR Gene in a Genetically Male Patient with Female External Genitalia. J Clin Res Pediatr Endocrinol 2019; 11:211-217. [PMID: 30444213 PMCID: PMC6571543 DOI: 10.4274/jcrpe.galenos.2018.2018.0197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The LHCGR gene encodes a G-protein coupled receptor that plays a pivotal role in sexual differentiation in males, ovarian development in females and in fertility via its interaction with luteinizing hormone and chorionic gonadotropin. Inactive variants of the LHCGR gene cause Leydig cell hypoplasia (LCH), which is a rare disease and one of the causes of disorder of sexual differentiation (DSD) in males. The aim of this work was to clarify the clinical and molecular characteristics of a 2.75 year old patient with type 1 LCH. Whole exome sequencing was performed for the patient family and variants in the LHCGR gene were validated by Sanger sequencing. Pathogenicity of the missense variant was evaluated by multiple in silico tools. Our Chinese patient, who exhibited DSD, had female external genitalia (normal labia majora and minora, external opening of urethra under the clitoris and blind-ended vagina) and bilateral testis tissues in the inguinal region. Genetic sequencing revealed compound heterozygous variants in the LHCGR gene in the patient, including a novel missense variant in exon 4 (c.349G>A, p.Gly117Arg) and a novel nonsense variant in exon 10 (c.878C>A, p.Ser293*). The missense variant is in the first leucine-rich repeat domain of the LHCGR protein, which is predicted to affect ligand recognition and binding affinity and thus protein function. The patient is molecularly and clinically diagnosed with type 1 LCH, which is caused by novel, compound heterozygous variants of the LHCGR gene. We believe this report will serve to expand the genotypic spectrum of LHCGR variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Yan
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Department of Pediatrics, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Julaiti Dilihuma
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Department of Pediatrics, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Yanfei Luo
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Department of Pediatrics, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Baoerhan Reyilanmu
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Department of Pediatrics, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Yiping Shen
- Boston Children’s Hospital Harvard Medical School, Department of Genetics and Genomics, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Maimaiti Mireguli
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Department of Pediatrics, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China,* Address for Correspondence: First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Department of Pediatrics, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China Phone: +8618690177527 E-mail:
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20
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Wang W, Guo DY, Tao YX. Therapeutic strategies for diseases caused by loss-of-function mutations in G protein-coupled receptors. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2019; 161:181-210. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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21
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Anderson RC, Newton CL, Anderson RA, Millar RP. Gonadotropins and Their Analogs: Current and Potential Clinical Applications. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:911-937. [PMID: 29982442 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The gonadotropin receptors LH receptor and FSH receptor play a central role in governing reproductive competency/fertility. Gonadotropin hormone analogs have been used clinically for decades in assisted reproductive therapies and in the treatment of various infertility disorders. Though these treatments are effective, the clinical protocols demand multiple injections, and the hormone preparations can lack uniformity and stability. The past two decades have seen a drive to develop chimeric and modified peptide analogs with more desirable pharmacokinetic profiles, with some displaying clinical efficacy, such as corifollitropin alfa, which is now in clinical use. More recently, low-molecular-weight, orally active molecules with activity at gonadotropin receptors have been developed. Some have excellent characteristics in animals and in human studies but have not reached the market-largely as a result of acquisitions by large pharma. Nonetheless, such molecules have the potential to mitigate risks currently associated with gonadotropin-based fertility treatments, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and the demands of injection-based therapies. There is also scope for novel use beyond the current remit of gonadotropin analogs in fertility treatments, including application as novel contraceptives; in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome; in the restoration of function to inactivating mutations of gonadotropin receptors; in the treatment of ovarian and prostate cancers; and in the prevention of bone loss and weight gain in postmenopausal women. Here we review the properties and clinical application of current gonadotropin preparations and their analogs, as well as the development of novel orally active, small-molecule nonpeptide analogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross C Anderson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Claire L Newton
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Robert P Millar
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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22
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Newton CL, Riekert C, Millar RP. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog therapeutics. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 70:497-515. [PMID: 30264955 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4784.18.04316-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulation at any level of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis results in, or aggravates, a number of hormone-dependent diseases such as delayed or precocious puberty, infertility, prostatic and ovarian cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, lean body mass, as well as metabolism and cognitive impairment. As gonadotropin-releasing-hormone (GnRH) is an essential regulator of the HPG axis, agonist and antagonist analogs are efficacious in the treatment of these conditions. GnRH analogs also play an important role in assisted reproductive therapies. This review highlights the current and future therapeutic potential of GnRH analogs and upstream regulators of GnRH secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire L Newton
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Centre for Integrative Physiology, Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Carmen Riekert
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Robert P Millar
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa - .,Centre for Integrative Physiology, Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, and Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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23
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Ulloa-Aguirre A, Zariñán T, Gutiérrez-Sagal R, Dias JA. Intracellular Trafficking of Gonadotropin Receptors in Health and Disease. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2018; 245:1-39. [PMID: 29063275 DOI: 10.1007/164_2017_49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Gonadotropin receptors belong to the highly conserved subfamily of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily, the so-called Rhodopsin-like family (class A), which is the largest class of GPCRs and currently a major drug target. Both the follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) and the luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin hormone receptor (LHCGR) are mainly located in the gonads where they play key functions associated to essential reproductive functions. As any other protein, gonadotropin receptors must be properly folded into a mature tertiary conformation compatible with quaternary assembly and endoplasmic reticulum export to the cell surface plasma membrane. Several primary and secondary structural features, including presence of particular amino acid residues and short motifs and in addition, posttranslational modifications, regulate intracellular trafficking of gonadotropin receptors to the plasma membrane as well as internalization and recycling of the receptor back to the cell surface after activation by agonist. Inactivating mutations of gonadotropin receptors may derive from receptor misfolding and lead to absent or reduced plasma membrane expression of the altered receptor, thereby manifesting an array of phenotypical abnormalities mostly characterized by reproductive failure and/or abnormal or absence of development of secondary sex characteristics. In this chapter we review the structural requirements necessary for intracellular trafficking of the gonadotropin receptors, and describe how mutations in these receptors may lead to receptor misfolding and disease in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Ulloa-Aguirre
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación (RAI), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, Vasco de Quiroga 15, Tlalpan, Mexico City, 14000, Mexico.
| | - Teresa Zariñán
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación (RAI), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, Vasco de Quiroga 15, Tlalpan, Mexico City, 14000, Mexico
| | - Rubén Gutiérrez-Sagal
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación (RAI), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, Vasco de Quiroga 15, Tlalpan, Mexico City, 14000, Mexico
| | - James A Dias
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA
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24
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Anderson RC, Newton CL, Millar RP. Small Molecule Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Receptor Agonists and Antagonists. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:757. [PMID: 30728807 PMCID: PMC6352558 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) has been targeted therapeutically for decades, due to its pivotal role in reproduction. To date, only purified and recombinant/biosimilar FSH have been used to target FSHR in assisted reproduction, with the exception of corifollitropin alfa; a modified gonadotropin in which the FSH beta subunit is joined to the C-terminal peptide of the human choriogonadotropin beta subunit, to extend serum half-life. Assisted reproduction protocols usually entail the trauma of multiple injections of FSH to initiate and promote folliculogenesis, which has prompted the development of a number of orally-available low molecular weight (LMW) chemical scaffolds targeting the FSHR. Furthermore, the recently documented roles of the FSHR in diverse extragonadal tissues, including cancer, fat metabolism, and bone density regulation, has highlighted the potential utility of LMW modulators of FSHR activity. Despite these chemical scaffolds encompassing a spectrum of in vitro and in vivo activities and pharmacological profiles, none have yet reached the clinic. In this review we discuss the major chemical classes of LMW molecules targeting the FSHR, and document their activity profiles and current status of development, in addition to discussing potential clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross C. Anderson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Ross C. Anderson
| | - Claire L. Newton
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Robert P. Millar
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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25
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Abstract
The gonadotropin receptors (luteinising hormone receptor; LHR and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor; FSHR) are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that play an important role in the endocrine control of reproduction. Thus genetic mutations that cause impaired function of these receptors have been implicated in a number of reproductive disorders. Disease-causing genetic mutations in GPCRs frequently result in intracellular retention and degradation of the nascent protein through misfolding and subsequent recognition by cellular quality control machinery. The discovery and development of novel compounds termed pharmacological chaperones (pharmacoperones) that can stabilise misfolded receptors and restore trafficking and plasma membrane expression are therefore of great interest clinically, and promising in vitro data describing the pharmacoperone rescue of a number of intracellularly retained mutant GPCRs has provided a platform for taking these compounds into in vivo trials. Thienopyrimidine small molecule allosteric gonadotropin receptor agonists (Org 42599 and Org 41841) have been demonstrated to have pharmacoperone activity. These compounds can rescue cell surface expression and in many cases, hormone responsiveness, of a range of retained mutant gonadotropin receptors. Should gonadotropin receptor selectivity of these compounds be improved, they could offer therapeutic benefit to subsets of patients suffering from reproductive disorders attributed to defective gonadotropin receptor trafficking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire L Newton
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, PO Box 2034, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa.
| | - Ross C Anderson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, PO Box 2034, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
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