Rapid desensitization of GnRH-stimulated intracellular signalling events in alpha T3-1 and HEK-293 cells expressing the GnRH receptor

Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Gives Evidence for the Presence of Type 1 Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Receptor (GnRH-R) in Subdomains of Lipid Rafts

This study investigated the effect of type 1 gonadotropin releasing hormone receptor (GnRH-R) localization within lipid rafts on the properties of plasma membrane (PM) nanodomain structure. Confocal microscopy revealed colocalization of PM-localized GnRH-R with GM₁-enriched raft-like PM subdomains. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (EPR) of a membrane-partitioned spin probe was then used to study PM fluidity of immortalized pituitary gonadotrope cell line αT3-1 and HEK-293 cells stably expressing GnRH-R and compared it with their corresponding controls (αT4 and HEK-293 cells). Computer-assisted interpretation of EPR spectra revealed three modes of spin probe movement reflecting the properties of three types of PM nanodomains. Domains with an intermediate order parameter (domain 2) were the most affected by the presence of the GnRH-Rs, which increased PM ordering (order parameter (S)) and rotational mobility of PM lipids (decreased rotational correlation time (τc)). Depletion of cholesterol by methyl-β-cyclodextrin (methyl-β-CD) inhibited agonist-induced GnRH-R internalization and intracellular Ca²⁺ activity and resulted in an overall reduction in PM order; an observation further supported by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of model membrane systems. This study provides evidence that GnRH-R PM localization may be related to a subdomain of lipid rafts that has lower PM ordering, suggesting lateral heterogeneity within lipid raft domains.

Leuprorelin acetate long-lasting effects on GnRH receptors of prostate cancer cells: an atomic force microscopy study of agonist/receptor interaction

High cell-surface GnRH receptor (GnRH-R) levels have been shown to have a major influence on the extent of GnRH agonist-mediated tumor growth inhibition. The ability of the GnRH agonist leuprorelin acetate (LA) to induce a post-transcriptional upregulation of GnRH-R at the plasma membrane of androgen-sensitive (LNCaP) and -insensitive (PC-3) prostate cancer (PCa) cells has been previously demonstrated by Western blotting. Here we performed single molecule force spectroscopy by using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), which has proven to be a powerful tool allowing for investigation of living cell surface biological features, such as the so far unclear GnRH agonist/receptor interaction. Thus, in the hormone-insensitive PC-3 cells, we characterized the strength of the LA-receptor binding, and the amount and distribution of the functional receptor molecules on the cell surface. The effect of a long and continuous treatment (up to 30 days) with the agonist (10⁻¹¹ and 10⁻⁶ M) on the same parameters was also investigated. A GnRH-R increase was observed, reaching the maximum (∼80%) after 30 days of treatment with the highest dose of LA (10⁻⁶ M). The analogue-induced increase in GnRH-R was also demonstrated by Western blotting. In addition, two different receptor bound strengths were detected by AFM, which suggests the existence of two GnRH-R classes. A homogeneous distribution of the unbinding events has been found on untreated and treated PC-3 cell surfaces. The persistence of high receptor levels at the membrane of these living cells may warrant the maintenance of the response to LA also in androgen-unresponsive PCa. Moreover, the determination of ligand/receptor bond strength could shed light on the poorly understood event of LA/GnRH-R interaction and/or address structural/chemical agonist optimizations.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor levels and cell context affect tumor cell responses to agonist in vitro and in vivo

Activation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptors inhibits proliferation of transformed cells derived from reproductive tissues and in transfected cell lines. Hence, GnRH receptors represent a therapeutic target for direct action of GnRH analogues on certain proliferating cells. However, more cell biological data are required to develop this particular application of GnRH analogues. Therefore, we compared the effects of GnRH receptor activation in transfected HEK293 cells (HEK293([SCL60])) with transfected human ovarian cancer cell lines SKOV3 and EFO21, human hepatoblastoma HepG2 cells, and rat neuroblastoma B35 cells. Marked differences in receptor levels, magnitude of inositol phosphate generation, and dynamics of inositol phosphate turnover occurred in the different cells. Activation of GnRH receptors, expressed at high or moderate levels, inhibited the growth of HEK293([SCL60]) and B35 cells, respectively. Western blotting detected markers of apoptosis [cleaved poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase, caspase-9] in HEK293([SCL60]) and B35 following treatment with 100 nmol/L d-Trp(6)-GnRH-I. Cell growth inhibition was partially or completely rescued with inhibitor Q-VD-OPh or Ro32-0432. Low levels of GnRH receptor expression in transfected SKOV3, EFO21, or HepG2 activated intracellular signaling but did not induce apoptosis or significantly affect cell proliferation. Tumor xenografts prepared from HEK293([SCL60]) regressed during treatment with d-Trp(6)-GnRH-I and growth of xenografts derived from transfected B35 was slowed. SKOV3 xenografts were not growth inhibited. Therefore, differences in levels of GnRH receptor and signaling differentially affect the apoptotic machinery within cell lines and contribute to the cell type-specific effects of GnRH on growth. Further studies should exploit the growth-inhibitory potential of GnRH receptor activation in abnormal cells in diseased human tissues.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog structural determinants of selectivity for inhibition of cell growth: support for the concept of ligand-induced selective signaling

GnRH and its receptor are expressed in human reproductive tract cancers, and direct antiproliferative effects of GnRH analogs have been demonstrated in cancer cell lines. The intracellular signaling responsible for this effect differs from that mediating pituitary gonadotropin secretion. The GnRH structure-activity relationship is different for the two effects. Here we report a structure-activity relationship study of GnRH agonist antiproliferative action in model cell systems of rat and human GnRH receptors stably expressed in HEK293 cells. GnRH II was more potent than GnRH I in inhibiting cell growth in the cell lines. In contrast, GnRH I was more potent than GnRH II in stimulating inositol phosphate production, the signaling pathway in gonadotropes. The different residues in GnRH II (His(5), Trp(7), Tyr(8)) were introduced singly or in pairs into GnRH I. Tyr(5) replacement by His(5) produced the highest increase in the antiproliferative potency of GnRH I. Tyr(8) substitution of Arg(8) produced the most selective analog, with very poor inositol phosphate generation but high antiproliferative potency. In nude mice bearing tumors of the HEK293 cell line, GnRH II and an antagonist administration was ineffective in inhibiting tumor growth, but D-amino acid stabilized analogs (D-Lys(6) and D-Arg(6)) ablated tumor growth. Docking of GnRH I and GnRH II to the human GnRH receptor molecular model revealed that Arg(8) of GnRH I makes contact with Asp(302), whereas Tyr(8) of GnRH II appears to make different contacts, suggesting these residues stabilize different receptor conformations mediating differential intracellular signaling and effects on gonadotropin and cell growth. These findings provide the basis for the development of selective GnRH analog cancer therapeutics that directly target tumor cells or inhibit pituitary gonadotropins or do both.

Mammalian type I gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors undergo slow, constitutive, agonist-independent internalization

Regulatory elements present in the cytoplasmic carboxyl-terminal tails of G protein-coupled receptors contribute to agonist-dependent receptor desensitization, internalization, and association with accessory proteins such as beta-arrestin. The mammalian type I GnRH receptors are unique among the rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptors because they lack a cytoplasmic carboxyl-terminal tail. In addition, they do not recruit beta-arrestin, nor do they undergo rapid desensitization. By measuring the internalization of labeled GnRH agonists, previous studies have reported that mammalian type I GnRH receptors undergo slow agonist-dependent internalization. In the present study, we have measured the internalization of epitope-tagged GnRH receptors, both in the absence and presence of GnRH stimulation. We demonstrate that mammalian type I GnRH receptors exhibit a low level of constitutive agonist-independent internalization. Stimulation with GnRH agonist did not significantly enhance the level of receptor internalization above the constitutive level. In contrast, the catfish GnRH and rat TRH receptors, which have cytoplasmic carboxyl-terminal tails, displayed similar levels of constitutive agonist-independent internalization but underwent robust agonist-dependent internalization, as did chimeras of the mammalian type I GnRH receptor with the cytoplasmic carboxyl-terminal tails of the catfish GnRH receptor or the rat TRH receptor. When the carboxyl-terminal Tyr325 and Leu328 residues of the mammalian type I GnRH receptor were replaced with alanines, these two mutant receptors underwent significantly impaired internalization, suggesting a function for the Tyr-X-X-Leu sequence in mediating the constitutive agonist-independent internalization of mammalian type I GnRH receptors. These findings provide further support for the underlying notion that the absence of the cytoplasmic carboxyl-terminal tail of the mammalian type I GnRH receptors has been selected for during evolution to prevent rapid receptor desensitization and internalization to allow protracted GnRH signaling in mammals.

Chronic subcutaneous administration of kisspeptin-54 causes testicular degeneration in adult male rats

The kisspeptins are KiSS-1 gene-derived peptides that signal through the G protein-coupled receptor-54 (GPR54) and have recently been shown to be critical regulators of reproduction. Acute intracerebroventricular or peripheral administration of kisspeptin stimulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. This effect is thought to be mediated via the hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) system. Chronic administration of GnRH agonists paradoxically suppresses the HPG axis after an initial agonistic stimulation. We investigated the effects of continuous peripheral kisspeptin administration in male rats by use of Alzet minipumps. Initially we compared the effects of acute subcutaneous administration of kisspeptin-10, -14, and -54 on the HPG axis. Kisspeptin-54 produced the greatest increase in plasma LH and total testosterone at 60 min postinjection and was used in the subsequent continuous administration experiments. Chronic subcutaneous long-term administration of 50 nmol kisspeptin-54/day for 13 days decreased testicular weight. Histological examination showed degeneration of the seminiferous tubules associated with a significant decrease in the circulating levels of the testes-derived hormone, inhibin B. Plasma free and total testosterone were also lower, although these changes did not reach statistical significance. Further studies examined the effects of shorter periods of continuous kisspeptin administration. Subcutaneous administration of 50 nmol kisspeptin-54 for 1 day increased plasma LH and testosterone. This effect was lost after 2 days of administration, suggesting a downregulation of the HPG axis response to kisspeptin following continuous administration. These findings indicate that kisspeptin may provide a novel tool for the manipulation of the HPG axis and spermatogenesis.

Identification and characterization of surrogate peptide ligand for orphan G protein-coupled receptor mas using phage-displayed peptide library

In the present study, a phage-displayed random peptide library was used to identify surrogate peptide ligands for orphan GPCR mas. Sequence analysis of the isolated phage clones indicated a selective enrichment of some peptide sequences. Moreover, multiple alignments of the isolated phage clones gave two conserved peptide motifs from which we synthesized peptide MBP7 for further evaluation. Characterization of the representative phage clones and the synthetic peptide MBP7 by immunocytochemistry revealed a strong punctate cell surface staining in CHO cells expressing mas-GFP fusion protein. The isolated phage clones and synthetic peptide MBP7 induced mas internalization in a stable CHO cell clone (MC0M80) over-expressing mas. In addition, MBP7-stimulated phospholipase C activity and intracellular calcium mobilization in these same cells. In summary, we have demonstrated a systematic approach to derive surrogate peptide ligands for orphan GPCRs. With this technique, we have identified two conserved peptide motifs which allow us to identify potential protein partners for mas, and have generated a peptide agonist MBP7 which will be invaluable for functional characterization of the mas oncogene.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists promote proapoptotic signaling in peripheral reproductive tumor cells by activating a Galphai-coupling state of the type I GnRH receptor

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor agonists are extensively used in the treatment of sex hormone-dependent cancers via the desensitization of pituitary gonadotropes and consequent decrease in steroid sex hormone secretion. However, evidence now points to a direct inhibitory effect of GnRH analogs on cancer cells. These effects appear to be mediated via the Galpha(i)-type G protein, in contrast to the predominant Galpha(q) coupling in gonadotropes. Unlike Galpha(q) coupling, Galpha(i) coupling of the GnRH receptor can be activated by both agonists and antagonists. This unusual pharmacology suggested that the receptor involved in the cancer cells may not be the classical gonadotrope type I GnRH receptor. However, we have previously shown that a functional type II GnRH receptor is not present in man. In the present study, we show that GnRH agonists and selective GnRH antagonists exert potent antiproliferative effects on JEG-3 choriocarcinoma, benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH-1), and HEK293 cells stably expressing the type I GnRH receptor. This antiproliferative action occurs through a Galpha(i)-mediated activation of stress-activated protein kinase pathways, resulting in caspase activation and transmembrane transfer of phosphatidlyserine to the outer membrane envelope. Structurally related antagonistic GnRH analogs displayed divergent antiproliferative efficacies but demonstrated equal efficacies in inhibiting GnRH-induced Galpha(q)-based signaling. Therefore the ability of GnRH receptor antagonists to exert an antiproliferative effect on reproductive tumors may be dependent on ligand-selective activation of the Galpha(i)-coupled form of the type I GnRH receptor.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone-induced activation of diacylglycerol kinase-zeta and its association with active c-src

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-induced receptor activation has been demonstrated to entrain a wide variety of signaling modalities. Most signaling pathways are concerned with the control of serine, threonine, or tyrosine-protein kinases, however, in the current article we demonstrate that in both a model cell line and in gonadotropes, GnRH additionally mediates the activation of lipid-directed kinases. We have shown that there is a functional connection between protein-tyrosine kinase modulation and lipid kinase activation. In HEK293 cells stably expressing the Type I mammalian GnRH receptor, we employed a proteomic approach to identify novel protein binding partners for GnRH-activated c-Src. Using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry we identified a GnRH-induced association between c-Src and the lipid kinase, diacylglycerol kinase-zeta (DGK-zeta). Using reciprocal co-immunoprecipitation we show that there is a significant elevation of the association between catalytically active c-Src with DGK-zeta in both HEK293 cells and murine gonadotrope LbetaT2 cells. Employing lipid kinase assays we have shown that the catalytic activity of DGK-zeta is significantly heightened in both HEK293 and LbetaT2 cells by GnRH. In addition, we demonstrate that the activation of DGK-zeta exerts a functional role in the murine gonadotrope LbetaT2 cell line. Elevated expression of DGK-zeta resulted in a shortening of the time scale of ERK activation in these cells suggesting a potential role of endogenous DGK-zeta in controlling the induction of LHbeta transcription by ERK1/2.

Cytoskeletal reorganization dependence of signaling by the gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor

Activation of classical G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) like the mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRHR) typically stimulates heterotrimeric G protein molecules that subsequently activate downstream effectors. Receptor activation of heterotrimeric G protein pathways primarily controls intermediary cell metabolism by elevation or diminution of soluble cytoplasmic second messenger molecules. We have demonstrated here that stimulation of the GnRHR also results in a dramatic change in both cell adhesion and superstructural morphology. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor activation rapidly increases the capacity of HEK293 cells expressing the GnRHR to remain matrix-adherent in the face of fluid insults. Coinciding with this profound elevation in matrix adherence, we demonstrated a GnRH-induced alteration in both cell morphology and the de novo generation of polymerized actin structures. GnRH induction of cytoskeletal remodeling was correlated with significant increases in the tyrosine phosphorylation status of a series of cytoskeletal associated proteins, e.g. focal adhesion kinase (FAK), c-Src, and microtubule-associated protein kinase (MAPK or ERK1/2). The activation of the distal downstream effector ERK1/2 was demonstrated to be sensitive to the disrupters of cytoskeletal rearrangement, cytochalasin D and latrunculin B. In addition to the sensitivity of ERKs to cytoskeletal integrity, GnRH-induced FAK and c-Src kinase activation were sensitive to these agents and the fibronectin-integrin antagonistic RGDS peptide. Activation of ERK was dependent on its protein-protein assembly with FAK and c-Src at focal adhesion complexes. Induction of the cell remodeling event leading to this signaling complex assembly occurred primarily via GnRHR activation of the monomeric G protein Rac but not RhoA. These findings demonstrated a clear divergence of GnRHR signaling via the Rac monomeric G protein focal adhesion signaling complex assembly and cytoskeletal remodeling independent of the classical heterotrimeric G protein-controlled phospholipase C-beta pathway.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone-desensitized LbetaT2 gonadotrope cells are refractory to acute protein kinase C, cyclic AMP, and calcium-dependent signaling

Sustained exposure of gonadotropes to GnRH causes a pronounced desensitization of gonadotropin release, but the mechanisms involved are poorly understood. It is known that desensitization is associated with decreased GnRH receptor and Gq/11 levels in alphaT3-1 cells, but it is not known whether downstream signaling is impaired. We have shown previously that chronic stimulation of signaling via expression of an active form of Galphaq causes GnRH resistance in LbetaT2 cells. In this study we investigated whether chronic GnRH treatment could down-regulate protein kinase C (PKC), cAMP, or Ca2+-dependent signaling in LbetaT2 cells. We found that chronic GnRH treatment desensitizes cells to acute GnRH stimulation not only by reducing GnRH receptor and Gq/11 expression but also by down-regulating PKC, cAMP, and calcium-dependent signaling. Desensitization was observed for activation of ERK and p38 MAPK and induction of c-fos and LHbeta protein expression. Activation of individual signaling pathways was able to partially mimic the desensitizing effect of GnRH on ERK, p38 MAPK, c-fos, and LHbeta but not on Gq/11. Chronic stimulation with phorbol esters reduced GnRH receptor expression to the same extent as chronic GnRH. Sustained GnRH also desensitized PKC signaling by down-regulating the delta, epsilon, and theta isoforms of PKC. We further show that chronic GnRH treatment causes heterologous desensitization of other Gq-coupled receptors.

Mechanisms regulating the expression, self-maintenance, and signaling-function of the bradykinin B2 and B1 receptors

Bradykinin (BK) is a potent short-lived effector belonging to a class of peptides known as kinins. It participates in inflammatory and vascular regulation and processes including angioedema, tissue permeability, vascular dilation, and smooth muscle contraction. BK exerts its biological effects through the activation of the bradykinin B2 receptor (BKB2R) which is G-protein-coupled and is generally constitutively expressed. Upon binding, the receptor is activated and transduces signal cascades which have become paradigms for the actions of the Galphai and Galphaq G-protein subunits. Following activation the receptor is then desensitized, endocytosed, and resensitized. The bradykinin B1 (BKB1R) is a closely related receptor. It is activated by desArg(10)-kallidin or desArg(9)-BK, metabolites of kallidin and BK, respectively. This receptor is induced following tissue injury or after treatment with bacterial endotoxins such as lipopolysacharide or cytokines such as interleukin-1 or tumor necrosis factor-alpha. In this review we will summarize the BKB2R and BKB1R mediated signal transduction pathways. We will then emphasize the relevance of key residues and domains of the intracellular regions of the BKB2R as they relate to modulating its function (signal transduction) and self-maintenance (desensitization, endocytosis, and resensitization). We will examine the features of the BKB1R gene promoter and its mRNA as these operate in the expression and self-maintenance of this inducible receptor. This communication will not cover areas discussed in earlier reviews pertaining to the actions of peptide analogs. For these we refer you to earlier reviews (Regoli and Barabé, 1980, Pharmacol Rev 32:1-46; Regoli et al., 1990, J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 15(Suppl 6):S30-S38; Regoli et al., 1993, Can J Physiol Pharmacol 71:556-557; Marceau, 1995, Immunopharmacology 30:1-26; Regoli et al., 1998, Eur J Pharmacol 348:1-10).

Real-time analysis of the activities of GnRH and GnRH analogs in alphaT3-1 cells by the Cytosensor microphysiometer

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), acting via the GnRH receptor, elicited rapid extracellular acidification responses in mouse gonadotrope-derived alphaT3-1 cells as measured by the Cytosensor microphysiometer, which indirectly monitors cellular metabolic rates. GnRH increased the extracellular acidification rate of the cells in a dose-dependent manner (EC(50) = 1.81 +/- 0.24 nM). The GnRH-stimulated acidification rate could be attenuated by protein kinase C (PKC) down-regulation, extracellular Ca2+ depletion, and the voltage-sensitive Ca2+ channel (VSCC) blocker nifedipine, indicating that the acidification response is activated by both Ca2+ and PKC-mediated pathways. Upon continuous exposure to 100 nM GnRH or periodic stimulation by 10 nM GnRH at 40 min intervals, homologous desensitization was more pronounced in the absence of extracellular Ca2+, suggesting that desensitization of GnRH activity may be mediated via depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores. We have also compared the potency of eight GnRH analogs on alphaT3-1 cells. No acidification response was detected for GnRH free acid, consistent with the idea that the C-terminal amide is a critical structural determinant for GnRH activity. Replacement of Gly-NH(2) at the C-terminus by N-ethylamide dramatically reduced the EC(50) value, suggesting that substitution of the Gly-NH(2) moiety by N-ethylamide increases the potency of GnRH analogs. Substitution of Gly at position 6 by D-Trp significantly reduced the EC(50) value, whereas D-Lys at the same position slightly increased the EC(50) value, implying that either an aromatic amino acid or a non-basic amino acid at position 6 may be essential for potent GnRH agonists. In summary, our results demonstrate that the Cytosensor microphysiometer can be used to evaluate the actions of GnRH and GnRH analogs in alphaT3-1 cells in a real-time and noninvasive manner. This silicon-based microphysiometric system should provide new information on the structure-function studies of GnRH and is an invaluable tool for the screening of new GnRH agonists and antagonists in the future.

The expression, regulation and signal transduction pathways of the mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor

Normal mammalian sexual maturation and reproductive functions require the integration and precise coordination of hormones at the hypothalamic, pituitary, and gonadal levels. Hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is a key regulator in this system; after binding to its receptor (GnRHR), it stimulates de novo synthesis and release of gonadotropins in anterior pituitary gonadotropes. Since the isolation of the GnRHR cDNA, the expression of GnRHR mRNA has been detected not only in the pituitary, but also in extrapituitary tissues, including the ovary and placenta. It has been shown that change in GnRHR mRNA is one of the mechanisms for regulating the expression of the GnRHR. To help understand the molecular mechanism(s) involved in transcriptional regulation of the GnRHR gene, the 5' flanking region of the GnRHR gene has recently been isolated. Initial characterization studies have identified several DNA regions in the GnRHR 5' flanking region which are responsible for both basal expression and GnRH-mediated homologous regulation of this gene in pituitary cells. The mammalian GnRHR lacks a C-terminus and possesses a relatively short third intracellular loop; both features are important in desensitization of many others G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), Homologous desensitization of GnRHR has been shown to be regulated by various serine-threonine protein kinases including protein kinase A (PKA) and protein kinase C (PKC), as well as by G-protein coupled receptor kinases (GRKs). Furthermore, GnRHR was demonstrated to couple with multiple G proteins (Gq/11, Gs, and Gi), and to activate cascades that involved the PKC, PKA, and mitogen-activator protein kinases. These results suggest the diversity of GnRHR-G protein coupling and signal transduction systems. The identification of second form of GnRH (GnRH-II) in mammals adds to the complexity of the GnRH-GnRHR system. This review summaries our recent progress in understanding the regulation of GnRHR gene expression and the GnRHR signal transduction pathways.Key words: gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor, transcriptional regulation, desensitization, signal transduction.

Transcriptional down-regulation of human gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor gene by GnRH: role of protein kinase C and activating protein 1

Clinical applications of GnRH agonists (GnRHa) are based primarily on the decrease in gonadotropin release after down-regulation of the GnRH receptor (GnRHR) by continuous GnRHa administration. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the transcriptional regulation of the human GnRHR gene after prolonged GnRH treatment remain poorly understood. In the present study GnRHa-mediated regulation of human GnRHR gene transcription was studied by transiently transfecting the mouse gonadotrope-derived (alphaT3-1) cells with a 2297-bp human GnRHR promoter-luciferase construct (p2300-LucF). A dose- and time-dependent decrease in human GnRHR promoter activity was observed after GnRHa treatment. An average 71% decrease in promoter activity was observed after 24-h treatment with 0.1 microM GnRHa, which was blocked by cotreatment of the GnRH antagonist, antide. This effect was mimicked by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (TPA) administration. In addition, the GnRHa- and TPA-mediated decrease in the human GnRHR promoter activity was reversed by a specific protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, GF109203X, or depletion of PKC by TPA pretreatment. These findings indicate that the activation of the PKC pathway is important in regulating the human GnRHR gene expression. By progressive 5'-deletion studies, we have identified a 248-bp DNA fragment (-1018 to -771, relative to the translation start site) at the 5'-flanking region of the human GnRHR gene that is responsible for the GnRHa-mediated down-regulation of human GnRHR promoter activity. Analysis of this sequence reveals the existence of two putative activating protein-1 (AP-1) sites with 87% homology to the consensus sequence (5'-TGA(G/C)T(C/A)A-3'), located at -1000 to -994 (5'-TTAGACA-3', in complementary orientation) and -943 to 937 (5'-TGAATAA-3'). Using competitive gel mobility shift assays, AP-1 binding was observed within this 248-bp region. Site-directed mutation of the putative AP-1-binding site located at -1000 to -994 abolished the GnRHa-induced inhibition. Further competitive GMSA and supershift experiments confirmed the identity of AP-1 binding in this region. By the use of Western blot analysis, a significant increase in c-Jun (100%; P < 0.05) and c-Fos (50%; P < 0.05) protein levels was observed after GnRHa treatment in alphaT3-1 cells. In addition, our data suggested that a change in AP-1 composition, particularly c-Fos, was important in mediating GnRHa-induced inhibition of human GnRHR gene expression. We conclude that activation of the PKC pathway by GnRH is important in controlling human GnRHR gene expression. In addition, the putative AP-1-binding site located at -1000 to -994 of the human GnRHR5'-flanking region has been functionally identified to be involved in mediating this down-regulatory effect.

Regulation of inducible bradykinin B1 receptor gene expression through absence of internalization and resensitization

Rapid induction and down-regulation of bradykinin B1 receptor (BKB1R) gene expression is tightly regulated at the transcriptional and mRNA levels (Zhou et al. [1998] Biochem. J. 330:361-366; Zhou et al. [1999] Mol. Cell Biol. Res. Commun. 1:29-35). Here we explore regulation of BKB1R expression at the protein level. To make this inducible gene express constitutively, we utilized a bicistronic mammalian expression vector (pCMin) for stable transfection of the BKB1R gene into human lung fibroblasts, IMR90SV40. The BKB1R displayed a high affinity and specificity (K(d) = 0.5 nM) for desArg(10)-kallidin. The receptor mediated such signaling events as arachidonic acid (ARA) release, phosphoinositide (PI) turnover and Ca(2+)-flux. The receptor function proved differentially desensitized. For example, after initial exposure to desArg(10)-kallidin, a second stimulation with desArg(10)-kallidin did not induce further Ca(2+)-flux or ARA-release while PI-turnover continued unabated. Unlike most of the G-protein coupled receptors, the BKB1R did not internalize within 60 min of exposure to 10 nM desArg(10)-kallidin. It also did not resensitize. Thus, the duration and signal capacity of the BKB1R at the protein level is regulated through lack of internalization, an absence of resensitization and a lack of desensitization for certain events such as PI turnover. In fact, the absence of BKB1R resensitization is likely a very important contributor to the rapid disappearance of this inducible receptor.

GnRH stimulates LH release directly via inositol phosphate and indirectly via cAMP in African catfish

In African catfish, two gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) peptides have been identified: chicken GnRH (cGnRH)-II and catfish GnRH (cfGnRH). The GnRH receptors on pituitary cells producing gonadotropic hormone signal through inositol phosphate (IP) elevation followed by increases in intracellular calcium concentration (¿Ca(2+)(i)). In primary pituitary cell cultures of male African catfish, both cGnRH-II and cfGnRH dose dependently elevated IP accumulation, ¿Ca(2+)(i), and the release of the luteinizing hormone (LH)-like gonadotropin. In all cases, cGnRH-II was more potent than cfGnRH. The GnRH-stimulated LH release was not associated with elevated cAMP levels, and forskolin-induced cAMP elevation had no effect on LH release. With the use of pituitary tissue fragments, however, cAMP was elevated by GnRH, and forskolin was able to stimulate LH secretion. Incubating these fragments with antibodies against cfGnRH abolished the forskolin-induced LH release but did not compromise the forskolin-induced cAMP elevation. This suggests that cfGnRH-containing nerve terminals are present in pituitary tissue fragments and release cfGnRH via cAMP signaling on GnRH stimulation, whereas the GnRH receptors on gonadotrophs use IP/¿Ca(2+)(i) to stimulate the release of LH.

Lack of a C-terminal tail in the mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor confers resistance to agonist-dependent phosphorylation and rapid desensitization

The mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRH-R) is, at present, the only G-protein-coupled receptor that activates phospholipase C and lacks a C-terminal tail. We have previously demonstrated that this unique structural feature is associated with resistance to rapid desensitization of phosphoinositide signaling in COS-7 and HEK-293 cells (Heding, A., Vrecl, M., Bogerd, J., McGregor, A., Sellar, R., Taylor, P. L., and Eidne, K. A. (1998) J. Biol. Chem. 273, 11472-11477). Using receptors tagged with a nonapeptide of the influenza hemagglutinin protein to enable immunoprecipitation, we now demonstrate that the mammalian GnRH-R is not phosphorylated in an agonist-dependent manner. In contrast, the mammalian thyrotropin-releasing hormone receptor and the African catfish GnRH-R, both of which have a C-terminal tail, are phosphorylated in response to agonist challenge. Furthermore, chimeras of the mammalian GnRH-R with the C-terminal tail of either the mammalian thyrotropin-releasing hormone receptor or the catfish GnRH-R are also phosphorylated in an agonist-dependent manner. Only those receptors having C-terminal tails showed desensitization of phosphoinositide responses within 5-10 min of agonist challenge. We also show that the internalization of all these receptors when expressed transiently in COS-7 cells is similar. This dissociates receptor internalization from rapid desensitization and demonstrates that the lack of a C-terminal tail in the mammalian GnRH-R results in an inability of the receptor to undergo agonist-dependent phosphorylation and that this results directly in a resistance to rapid desensitization.

High efficiency method for gene transfer in normal pituitary gonadotropes: adenoviral-mediated expression of G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 suppresses luteinizing hormone secretion

The level of LH secretion is determined by both alterations in gonadotrope responsiveness and alterations in GnRH secretion. The molecular mechanisms underlying gonadotrope responsiveness are unknown, but may include G protein-coupled receptor kinases (GRKs). Typically, GRKs phosphorylate the intracellular regions of seven-transmembrane receptors permitting beta-arrestin to bind, which prevents receptor activation of its G protein. Previously, we reported that heterologous expression of GRK2, -3, and -6 in GnRH receptor-expressing COS cells by complementary DNA transfection suppressed GnRH-stimulated inositol trisphosphate production, and that coexpression of GRK2 and beta-arrestin-2 was more inhibitory than either expressed alone. Here, we have investigated the effect of GRK2 on GnRH-stimulated LH secretion using adenovirus-mediated gene transfer in normal pituitary gonadotropes. Pituitary cells were infected with adeno-GRK2 or adeno-beta-galactosidase constructs at a multiplicity of infection of 60 (number of viral particles per cell). Seventy-two hours later, GRK2 expression was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and GnRH-stimulated LH secretion (10(-7) M GnRH-A for 90 min) was assayed by RIA. Adeno-beta-galactosidase infected 96-99% of the cells based on X-Gal staining. Uninfected and adeno-beta-galactosidase-infected cells exhibited endogenous GRK immunoreactivity of about 0.5 (OD405), and LH secretion of 14.8-17.7 ng/ml. Adeno-GRK2-infected cells showed a GRK2 immunoreactivity of about 2.5 (OD405) and LH secretion of 2.5 ng/ml. Therefore, adeno-GRK2 infection resulted in a 5-fold increase in the GRK2 OD405 value, which was accompanied by an 80-85% decrease in GnRH-stimulated LH secretion. GnRH-stimulated inositol trisphosphate production by gonadotropes also was inhibited, suggesting a site of action for GRK2 at phospholipase Cbeta or earlier in the signal transduction pathway. The significance of these findings is 2-fold: 1) adenoviral-mediated gene transfer permits investigation of the regulatory role of gene products in the cell of interest, the gonadotrope, rather than in heterologous cell systems; and 2) additional, stronger evidence is provided that supports a role for GRKs in setting the responsiveness of GnRH receptor signaling.

Modulation of gonadotropin levels by peptides acting at the anterior pituitary gland

There are several lines of evidence that point to peptides participating in the regulation of LH and/or FSH levels by action at the pituitary. This evidence includes altered secretion of gonadotropins from the anterior pituitary cells or tissue in vitro when exposed to the peptide. Additionally, modification of GnRH-stimulated LH/FSH secretion has been observed. Furthermore, there is potential for a separately modulated interaction with the primed response. Another potential of action is by interaction among non-GnRH peptides on gonadotropin-regulating processes, although there are no good data available on this aspect. Other observations, consistent with a pituitary role for the peptides in modulation of LH, include detection of the peptides in portal blood, detection of high-affinity receptors or receptor mRNA in the pituitary, and detection of intrapituitary peptide or peptide mRNA in the pituitary. The modulation by steroids of both concentrations and type of activities provides a further level of physiological refinement. There is, however, some confusion regarding the involvement of these peptides in gonadotropin control. The reasons can be seen by considering aspects of investigations. There are experimental variations such as 1) species studied, e.g., NPY has been reported to have an effect on LH secretion from rat cells (168) but not on sheep anterior pituitary tissue (64), and substance P inhibits GnRH-stimulated release from rat cells (182) but potentiates the response in prepubertal porcine cells (92); 2) the steroidal conditions under which the study is performed, e.g., NPY has opposite effects in certain endocrine environments, augmenting GnRH-stimulated LH release in proestrus-like conditions (168), and inhibiting in metestrus-like environment (66); 3) the type of cell preparation, e.g., responsiveness to substance P might depend on whether cells in overnight culture were in separated or clustered state (91); 4) the time course considered, e.g., oxytocin that might induce marked LH release from pituitary cells after a longer length of incubation than GnRH requires (68); 5) length of exposure to peptide, e.g., endothelin that augmented or inhibited GnRH-stimulated LH release (50); 6) In addition, it is possible that the traditional endpoint selected in such studies, namely, observation of gonadotropin secretion, is not necessarily the most important for these peptides (56, 81, 117). Unfortunately, at this stage a definitive answer to the question "What do the peptides actually do?" cannot be provided and we remain tantalized by the glimpses of potential roles. Perhaps in a few years an updated review will be able to include a more complete answer. It is necessary for the full understanding of LH control that not only the properties of the peptides in isolation be characterized but also their interactions.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors with intracellular carboxyl-terminal tails undergo acute desensitization of total inositol phosphate production and exhibit accelerated internalization kinetics

The mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRH-R) is the only G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) in which the intracellular C-terminal tail is completely absent. In contrast to other GPCRs, the GnRH-R does not show rapid desensitization of total inositol (IP) production, and the rates of internalization are exceptionally slow. We investigated whether the incorporation of a cytoplasmic tail into the C terminus of the GnRH-R affects desensitization events and receptor internalization rates. A GnRH-R/TRH-R chimera was created where the intracellular tail of the rat thyrotropin-releasing hormone receptor (TRH-R) was engineered into the C terminus of the rat GnRH-R. Three different rat GnRH-R cDNA stop codon mutations (one for each reading frame) were also made. The GnRH-stimulated IP production of the wild-type rat GnRH-R expressed in either COS-7 or HEK 293 cells did not desensitize even after prolonged stimulation with GnRH. In contrast, the catfish GnRH-R (which does possess an intracellular tail) and the TRH-R rapidly (<10 min) desensitized following agonist stimulation. The GnRH-R/TRH-R chimera also desensitized following treatment with GnRH, resembling the pattern shown by the TRH-R and the catfish GnRH-R. Two of the stop codon mutants did not show desensitization of IP production, and the third mutant with the longest tail was not functional. Internalization experiments showed that the rat GnRH-R had the slowest endocytosis and recycling rates compared with the TRH-R, the catfish GnRH-R, and the chimeric GnRH/TRH-R. This study demonstrates that the addition of a functional intracellular C-terminal tail to the GnRH-R produces rapid desensitization of IP production and significantly increases internalization rates.

Signal transduction, desensitization, and recovery of responses to thyrotropin-releasing hormone after inhibition of receptor internalization

Three independent methods were used to block internalization of the TRH receptor: cells were infected with vaccinia virus encoding a dominant negative dynamin, incubated in hypertonic sucrose, or stably transfected with a receptor lacking the C-terminal tail. Internalization was blocked in all three paradigms as judged by microscopy using a fluorescently labeled TRH agonist and biochemically. The initial inositol trisphosphate (IP3) and Ca2+ responses to TRH were normal when internalization was inhibited. The IP3 increase was sustained rather than transient, however, in cells expressing the truncated TRH receptor, implying that the C-terminal tail of the receptor may be important for uncoupling from phospholipase C. After withdrawal of TRH, cells were refractory to TRH until both ligand dissociation and resensitization of the receptor had occurred. When surface-bound TRH was removed by a mild acid wash, which did not impair receptor function, neither wild-type nor truncated receptors were able to generate full IP3 responses for about 10 min. The rate of recovery was not altered by blocking internalization. Recovery of intracellular Ca2+ responses also depended on the rate of Ca2+ pool refilling. In summary, in the continued presence of TRH, phospholipase C activity declines quickly due to receptor uncoupling; this desensitization does not take place for the truncated receptor. After TRH is withdrawn, cells are refractory to TRH. Before cells can respond, TRH must dissociate and a resensitization step, which takes place on the plasma membrane and does not require the C-terminal tail of the receptor, must occur.

Epitope-tagged gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors heterologously-expressed in mammalian (COS-1) and insect (Sf9) cells

The molecular cloning and nucleotide sequencing of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor represented an enhanced step in the experimental effort to understand this key molecule in the reproductive process at a cell and molecular level. A subsequent step in this broad effort is heterologous expression of the receptor in model cell systems for studies of signal transduction and desensitization, processes that may require immunologic detection of the receptor. Therefore, the GnRH receptor was tagged at its N-terminus using recombinant DNA procedures with the HA-1 epitope that is bound by a monoclonal antibody (12CA5). COS-1 cells expressing this receptor bound [(125)I]D-Ala6-desGly10-GnRH ethylamide (GnRH-A) with the expected high affinity (IC(50) = 0.47 nM), and were immunocytochemically stained by the 12CA5 antibody. Signal transduction was demonstrated by GnRH-induced [(3)H]inositol phosphate accumulation in receptor-expressing COS-1 cells. Western blotting of COS-1 cell membranes expressing the receptor revealed protein bands at 67, 57, and 32 kDa. Immunoprecipitation occurred when the solubilized receptor from COS-1 cell membranes was reacted with 12CA5 antibody and anti-mouse IgG Sepharose, and the presence of the receptor demonstrated either by its binding of [(125)I]GnRH-A or by its detection on Western blots. Desensitization of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)) production by N-epitope-tagged GnRH receptor expressing COS-1 cells was evoked by a five min GnRH pretreatment; [(32)P]i labeling of such cells during desensitization followed by immunoprecipitation of the N-epitope-tagged receptor was not associated with receptor phosphorylation. Finally, the epitope tagged receptor was expressed in the high-yield baculovirus/insect Sf9 cell system: the membrane receptor bound [(125)I]GnRH-A with slightly lowered affinity (IC(50) = 1.4 nM), and in Western blots yielded protein bands of 32, 56/57, 69, and 120/140 kDa. The development and validation of these heterologous systems will permit the study of several GnRH receptor-mediated processes that are poorly understood.