Conformational constraint of mammalian, chicken, and salmon GnRHs, but not GnRH II, enhances binding at mammalian and nonmammalian receptors: evidence for preconfiguration of GnRH II

Functional Characterization of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone and Corazonin Signaling Systems in Pacific Abalone: Toward Reclassification of Invertebrate Neuropeptides

INTRODUCTION

The proposed evolutionary origins and corresponding nomenclature of bilaterian gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-related neuropeptides have changed tremendously with the aid of receptor deorphanization. However, the reclassification of the GnRH and corazonin (CRZ) signaling systems in Lophotrochozoa remains unclear.

METHODS

We characterized GnRH and CRZ receptors in the mollusk Pacific abalone, Haliotis discus hannai (Hdh), by phylogenetic and gene expression analyses, bioluminescence-based reporter, Western blotting, substitution of peptide amino acids, in vivo neuropeptide injection, and RNA interference assays.

RESULTS

Two Hdh CRZ-like receptors (Hdh-CRZR-A and Hdh-CRZR-B) and three Hdh GnRH-like receptors (Hdh-GnRHR1-A, Hdh-GnRHR1-B, and Hdh-GnRHR2) were identified. In phylogenetic analysis, Hdh-CRZR-A and -B grouped within the CRZ-type receptors, whereas Hdh-GnRHR1-A/-B and Hdh-GnRHR2 clustered within the GnRH/adipokinetic hormone (AKH)/CRZ-related peptide-type receptors. Hdh-CRZR-A/-B and Hdh-GnRHR1-A were activated by Hdh-CRZ (pQNYHFSNGWHA-NH2) and Hdh-GnRH (pQISFSPNWGT-NH2), respectively. Hdh-CRZR-A/-B dually coupled with the Gαq and Gαs signaling pathways, whereas Hdh-GnRHR1-A was linked only with Gαq signaling. Analysis of substituted peptides, [I2S3]Hdh-CRZ and [N2Y3H4]Hdh-GnRH, and in silico docking models revealed that the N-terminal amino acids of the peptides are critical for the selectivity of Hdh-CRZR and Hdh-GnRHR. Two precursor transcripts for Hdh-CRZ and Hdh-GnRH peptides and their receptors were mainly expressed in the neural ganglia, and their levels increased in starved abalones. Injection of Hdh-CRZ peptide into abalones decreased food consumption, whereas Hdh-CRZR knockdown increased food consumption. Moreover, Hdh-CRZ induced germinal vesicle breakdown in mature oocytes.

CONCLUSION

Characterization of Hdh-CRZRs and Hdh-GnRHRs and their cognate peptides provides new insight into the evolutionary route of GnRH-related signaling systems in bilaterians.

Role of gonadotropin-releasing hormone-II and its receptor in swine reproduction

The pig represents the only livestock mammal capable of producing a functional protein for the second mammalian form of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH-II) and its receptor (GnRHR-II). To examine the role of GnRH-II and its receptor in pig reproduction, we produced a unique swine line with ubiquitous knockdown of endogenous GnRHR-II levels (GnRHR-II knockdown [KD]), which is largely the focus of this review. In mature GnRHR-II KD males, circulating testosterone concentrations were 82% lower than littermate control boars, despite similar luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. In addition, nine other gonadal steroids were reduced in the serum of GnRHR-II KD boars, whereas adrenal steroids (except 11-deoxycortisol) did not differ between lines. Interestingly, testes from GnRHR-II KD males had fewer, hypertrophic Leydig cells and fewer, enlarged seminiferous tubules than control testes. As expected, downstream reproductive traits such as androgen-dependent organ weights and semen characteristics were also significantly reduced in GnRHR-II KD versus control boars. Next, we explored the importance of this novel ligand/receptor complex in female reproduction. Transgenic gilts had fewer, but heavier, corpora lutea with smaller luteal cells than littermate control females. Although the number of antral follicles were similar between lines, the diameter of antral follicles tended to be larger in GnRHR-II KD females. In regard to steroidogenesis, circulating concentrations of progesterone and 17β-estradiol were lower in transgenic compared to control gilts, even though serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and LH were similar. Thus, GnRH-II and GnRHR-II represent a potential avenue to enhance fertility and promote the profitability of pork producers.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog therapeutics

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.

Molecular characterization and functional analysis of pituitary GnRH receptor in a commercial scombroid fish, chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus)

The gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is essential during pubertal onset, for its regulation of the synthesis and release of pituitary gonadotropins. Its action is mediated by GnRH receptors (GnRHRs) in the pituitary gonadotrophs. Our previous study demonstrated that the chub mackerel brain expresses three GnRH forms (gnrh1, gnrh2, and gnrh3), and that only GnRH1 neurons innervate anterior pituitary regions. Furthermore, chub mackerel gnrh1 mRNA exhibited a significant increase at pubertal onset. The present study aimed to isolate the functional GnRHR form involved in chub mackerel puberty. The open reading frame of our cloned receptor encodes 428 amino acids and contains seven transmembrane domains. Phylogenetic analysis also indicated clustering with other teleost-type IIB GnRHRs, mainly those involved in reproduction. Reporter gene assay results showed that all four synthetic peptides (GnRH1, GnRH2, GnRH3, and GnRH analogue) bind to the cloned receptor. Three deduced GnRH ligands stimulated luteinizing hormone (LH) release from cultured pituitary cells in vitro. Receptor gene expression was mainly detected in the pituitary and showed an increasing trend in the developing gonadal stages of both sexes during the pubertal process; this process was synchronous with previous studies of follicle-stimulating hormone beta (fshβ) and lhβ gene expression in chub mackerel. These results suggest that the cloned receptor is likely involved in the regulation of pubertal onset in this species. Therefore, we have designated the receptor cmGnRHR1.

Expression and Role of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone 2 and Its Receptor in Mammals

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone 1 (GnRH1) and its receptor (GnRHR1) drive mammalian reproduction via regulation of the gonadotropins. Yet, a second form of GnRH (GnRH2) and its receptor (GnRHR2) also exist in mammals. GnRH2 has been completely conserved throughout 500 million years of evolution, signifying high selection pressure and a critical biological role. However, the GnRH2 gene is absent (e.g., rat) or inactivated (e.g., cow and sheep) in some species but retained in others (e.g., human, horse, and pig). Likewise, many species (e.g., human, chimpanzee, cow, and sheep) retain the GnRHR2 gene but lack the appropriate coding sequence to produce a full-length protein due to gene coding errors; although production of GnRHR2 in humans remains controversial. Certain mammals lack the GnRHR2 gene (e.g., mouse) or most exons entirely (e.g., rat). In contrast, old world monkeys, musk shrews, and pigs maintain the coding sequence required to produce a functional GnRHR2. Like GnRHR1, GnRHR2 is a 7-transmembrane, G protein-coupled receptor that interacts with G_αq/11 to mediate cell signaling. However, GnRHR2 retains a cytoplasmic tail and is only 40% homologous to GnRHR1. A role for GnRH2 and its receptor in mammals has been elusive, likely because common laboratory models lack both the ligand and receptor. Uniquely, both GnRH2 and GnRHR2 are ubiquitously expressed; transcript levels are abundant in peripheral tissues and scarcely found in regions of the brain associated with gonadotropin secretion, suggesting a divergent role from GnRH1/GnRHR1. Indeed, GnRH2 and its receptor are not physiological modulators of gonadotropin secretion in mammals. Instead, GnRH2 and GnRHR2 coordinate the interaction between nutritional status and sexual behavior in the female brain. Within peripheral tissues, GnRH2 and its receptor are novel regulators of reproductive organs. GnRH2 and GnRHR2 directly stimulate steroidogenesis within the porcine testis. In the female, GnRH2 and its receptor may help mediate placental function, implantation, and ovarian steroidogenesis. Furthermore, both the GnRH2 and GnRHR2 genes are expressed in human reproductive tumors and represent emerging targets for cancer treatment. Thus, GnRH2 and GnRHR2 have diverse functions in mammals which remain largely unexplored.

Stability, permeability and growth-inhibitory properties of gonadotropin-releasing hormone liposaccharides

PURPOSE

In this study we aimed to address the poor drug-like properties of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) peptide through modification with lipids and carbohydrates.

METHODS

GnRH peptide was conjugated to 2-amino-D,L-octanoic acid (C8) and 2-amino-D,L-dodecanoic acid (C12) in monomer and dimer, along with (6-9) or without (2-5 and 11) a glucose moiety. Peptides were tested for their biological activity using different tumour cell lines. The toxicity of the constructs was evaluated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC).

RESULTS

All (glyco)lipopeptides showed improved metabolic stability in Caco-2 cell homogenates. Those with single lipid moiety (2, 4 and 8) exhibited prodrug-like properties. Permeability across Caco-2 cell monolayers was enhanced in the dimer C8-modified (glyco)lipopeptide (3) and the lipopeptide with C12 inserted mid-sequence (11). Most of the constructs showed moderate-to-high antiproliferative activity against GnRH-receptor positive DU145 and OVCAR-3 cells (up to 60%). Compound 11 was the most effective with IC50 = 26.4 ± 1.07 μg.ml(-1), which was comparable to triptorelin (25.1 ± 1.14 μg.mL(-1)). The sensitivity of OVCAR-3 cells to the effect of all analogues except for 11 decreased significantly in estrogen-reconstituted media. Only compounds 2, 4, 5 and 8 showed a steroid-dependent effect in DU145 cells. No compounds exhibited significant toxicity on PBMCs.

CONCLUSION

These results indicated lipidation and glycosylation improves the druggability of GnRH and could lead to an increased direct antitumour activity in some hormone dependent and independent reproductive cancers.

Current and future applications of GnRH, kisspeptin and neurokinin B analogues

Reproductive hormones affect all stages of life from gamete production, fertilization, fetal development and parturition, neonatal development and puberty through to adulthood and senescence. The reproductive hormone cascade has, therefore, been the target for the development of numerous drugs that modulate its activity at many levels. As the central regulator of the cascade, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and antagonists have found extensive applications in treating a wide range of hormone-dependent diseases, such as precocious puberty, prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia, endometriosis and uterine fibroids, as well as being an essential component of in vitro fertilization protocols. The neuroendocrine peptides that regulate GnRH neurons, kisspeptin and neurokinin B, have also been identified as therapeutic targets, and novel agonists and antagonists are being developed as modulators of the cascade upstream of GnRH. Here, we review the development and applications of analogues of the major neuroendocrine peptide regulators of the reproductive hormone cascade: GnRH, kisspeptin and neurokinin B.

Molecular cloning and pharmacological characterization of two novel GnRH receptors in the lamprey (Petromyzon marinus)

This paper reports the identification, expression, binding kinetics, and functional studies of two novel type III lamprey GnRH receptors (lGnRH-R-2 and lGnRH-R-3) in the sea lamprey, a basal vertebrate. These novel GnRH receptors share the structural features and amino acid motifs common to other known gnathostome GnRH receptors. The ligand specificity and activation of intracellular signaling studies showed ligands lGnRH-II and -III induced an inositol phosphate (IP) response at lGnRH-R-2 and lGnRH-R-3, whereas the ligand lGnRH-I did not stimulate an IP response. lGnRH-II was a more potent activator of lGnRH-R-3 than lGnRH-III. Stimulation of lGnRH-R-2 and lGnRH-R-3 testing all three lGnRH ligands did not elicit a cAMP response. lGnRH-R-2 has a higher binding affinity in response to lGnRH-III than lGnRH-II, whereas lGnRH-R-3 has a higher binding affinity in response to lGnRH-II than IGnRH-III. lGnRH-R-2 precursor transcript was detected in a wide variety of tissues including the pituitary whereas lGnRH-R-3 precursor transcript was not as widely expressed and primarily expressed in the brain and eye of male and female lampreys. From our phylogenetic analysis, we propose that lGnRH-R-1 evolved from a common ancestor of all vertebrate GnRH receptors and lGnRH-R-2 and lGnRH-R-3 likely occurred due to a gene duplication within the lamprey lineage. In summary, we propose from our findings of receptor subtypes in the sea lamprey that the evolutionary recruitment of specific pituitary GnRH receptor subtypes for particular physiological functions seen in later evolved vertebrates was an ancestral character that first arose in a basal vertebrate.

The chicken type III GnRH receptor homologue is predominantly expressed in the pituitary, and exhibits similar ligand selectivity to the type I receptor

Two GnRH isoforms (cGnRH-I and GnRH-II) and two GnRH receptor subtypes (cGnRH-R-I and cGnRH-R-III) occur in chickens. Differential roles for these molecules in regulating gonadotrophin secretion or other functions are unclear. To investigate this we cloned cGnRH-R-III from a broiler chicken and compared its structure, expression and pharmacological properties with cGnRH-R-I. The broiler cGnRH-R-III cDNA was 100% identical to the sequence reported in the red jungle fowl and white leghorn breed. Pituitary cGnRH-R-III mRNA was approximately 1400-fold more abundant than cGnRH-R-I mRNA. Northern analysis indicated a single cGnRH-R-III transcript. A pronounced sex and age difference existed, with higher pituitary transcript levels in sexually mature females versus juvenile females. In contrast, higher expression levels occurred in juvenile males versus sexually mature males. Functional studies in COS-7 cells indicated that cGnRH-R-III has a higher binding affinity for GnRH-II than cGnRH-I (K(d): 0.57 vs 19.8 nM) with more potent stimulation of inositol phosphate production (ED(50): 0.8 vs 4.38 nM). Similar results were found for cGnRH-R-I, (K(d): 0.51 vs 10.8 nM) and (ED(50): 0.7 vs 2.8 nM). The initial rate of internalisation was faster for cGnRH-R-III than cGnRH-R-I (26 vs 15.8%/min). Effects of GnRH antagonists were compared at the two receptors. Antagonist #27 distinguished between cGnRH-R-I and cGnRH-R-III (IC(50): 2.3 vs 351 nM). These results suggest that cGnRH-R-III is probably the major mediator of pituitary gonadotroph function, that antagonist #27 may allow delineation of receptor subtype function in vitro and in vivo and that tissue-specific recruitment of cGnRH-R isoforms has occurred during evolution.

The emergence and loss of gonadotropin-releasing hormone in protostomes: orthology, phylogeny, structure, and function

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRH) is a neuropeptide critical for reproductive activation and maintenance in vertebrates. The recent elucidation of molluscan GNRH-like sequences led to several important questions regarding the evolution of the GNRH family. For instance, are molluscan and chordate GNRHs true orthologs? Has GNRH been retained in most protostomian lineages? What was the function of the ancestral GNRH? The goal of this review is to provide a critical analysis of GNRH evolution based on data available from the known forms of protostomian GNRH. Judging from the orthology between chordate and protostomian GNRH receptors, conservation of several structural motifs on the GNRH peptide, and exon/intron arrangement conserved between protostomian and chordate GNRH genomic sequences, we conclude that chordate and protostomian GNRHs likely share a common ancestor. Based on our analysis of phylogenetic distribution, we also hypothesize that GNRH may have been lost in the ecdysozoan lineage but preserved in lophotrochozoans. Lastly, we propose that the ancestral function of GNRH is to serve as a general neural regulator, and its considerable specialization in reproduction seen in chordates is a consequence of neofunctionalization following gene duplication.

Changes to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor extracellular loops differentially affect GnRH analog binding and activation: evidence for distinct ligand-stabilized receptor conformations

GnRH and its structural variants bind to GnRH receptors from different species with different affinities and specificities. By investigating chimeric receptors that combine regions of mammalian and nonmammalian GnRH receptors, a greater understanding of how different domains influence ligand binding and receptor activation can be achieved. Using human-catfish and human-chicken chimeric receptors, we demonstrate the importance of extracellular loop conformation for ligand binding and agonist potency, providing further evidence for GnRH and GnRH II stabilization of distinct active receptor conformations. We demonstrate examples of GnRH receptor gain-of-function mutations that apparently improve agonist potency independently of affinity, implicating a role for extracellular loops in stabilizing the inactive receptor conformation. We also show that entire extracellular loop substitution can overcome the detrimental effects of localized mutations, thereby demonstrating the importance of considering the conformation of entire domains when drawing conclusions from point-mutation studies. Finally, we present evidence implicating the configuration of extracellular loops 2 and 3 in combination differentiating GnRH analog binding modes. Because there are two endogenous forms of GnRH ligand but only one functional form of full-length GnRH receptor in humans, understanding how GnRH and GnRH II can elicit distinct functional effects through the same receptor is likely to provide important insights into how these ligands can have differential effects in both physiological and pathological situations.

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.

Endocrine signaling in ovarian surface epithelium and cancer

Ovarian cancer is the sixth most common cancer and the fifth leading cause of cancer-related death among women in developed countries. Greater than 85% of human ovarian cancer arises within the ovarian surface epithelium (OSE), with the remainder derived from granulosa cells or, rarely, stroma or germ cells. The pathophysiology of ovarian cancer is the least understood among all major human malignancies because of a poor understanding of the aetiological factors and mechanisms of ovarian cancer progression. There is increasing evidence suggesting that several key reproductive hormones, such as GnRH, gonadotrophins and sex steroids, regulate the growth of normal OSE and ovarian cancer cells. The objective of this review was to highlight the effects of these endocrine factors on ovarian cancer cell growth and to summarize the signalling mechanisms involved in normal human OSE and its neoplastic counterparts.

Conserved amino acid residues that are important for ligand binding in the type I gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor are required for high potency of GnRH II at the type II GnRH receptor

GnRH I regulates reproduction. A second form, designated GnRH II, selectively binds type II GnRH receptors. Amino acids of the type I GnRH receptor required for binding of GnRH I (Asp2.61(98), Asn2.65(102), and Lys3.32(121)) are conserved in the type II GnRH receptor, but their roles in receptor function are unknown. We have delineated their functions using mutagenesis, signaling and binding assays, immunoblotting, and computational modeling. Mutating Asp2.61(97) to Glu or Ala, Asn2.65(101) to Ala, or Lys3.32(120) to Gln decreased potency of GnRH II-stimulated inositol phosphate production. Consistent with proposed roles in ligand recognition, mutations eliminated measurable binding of GnRH II, whereas expression of mutant receptors was not decreased. In detailed analysis of how these residues affect ligand-dependent signaling, [Trp2]-GnRH I showed lesser decreases in potency than GnRH I at the Asp2.61(97)Glu mutant. In contrast, [Trp2]-GnRH II showed the same loss of potency as GnRH II at this mutant. This suggests that Asp2.61(97) contributes to recognition of His2 of GnRH I, but not of GnRH II. GnRH II showed a large decrease in potency at the Asn2.65(101)Ala mutant compared with analogs lacking the CO group of Gly10NH2. This suggests that Asn2.65(101) recognizes Gly10NH2 of GnRH II. GnRH agonists showed large decreases in potency at the Lys3.32(120)Gln mutant, but antagonist activity was unaffected. This suggests that Lys3.32(120) recognizes agonists, but not antagonists, as in the type I receptor. These data indicate that roles of conserved residues are similar, but not identical, in the type I and II GnRH receptors.

Comparison of the ability of the three endogenous GnRHs to stimulate release of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone in chickens

It is well established that GnRH can stimulate the release of LH and FSH in mammals. Two GnRHs have been found in the chicken hypothalamus, cGnRH-I and -II. There is controversy as to whether either peptide can stimulate release of FSH in birds. The present studies compared the ability of cGnRH-I and -II to stimulate the release of FSH and LH in chickens. Lamprey (l) GnRH-III may be a specific-releasing factor for FSH, as it selectively stimulates FSH release in rodents and cattle, and has been detected in the hypothalamus of rodents, sparrows and chickens. Therefore, the ability of lGnRH-III to stimulate LH and FSH release was also examined. In our first experiment, the effects of cGnRH-I and -II were studied using 17-week prepubertal females. Intravenous injection of cGnRH-II at 1 and 10 microg/kg BW significantly increased LH secretion more than did cGnRH-I. Neither peptide significantly increased plasma FSH levels. In our second study, we administered cGnRH-I, -II or lGnRH-III to mature males maintained on a short photoperiod. cGnRH-II was again more potent than cGnRH-I in stimulating LH release, while lGnRH-III produced a modest LH rise. No GnRH peptide provided specific or potent stimulus to FSH secretion, although the high dose of cGnRH-II modestly enhanced FSH levels in the adult male (P < 0.05). Our results are not consistent with the view that lGnRH-III is a specific FSH-releasing hormone across multiple classes of vertebrates. We conclude that the mechanism by which independent release of FSH occurs in chickens remains unresolved.

Evolution of constrained gonadotropin-releasing hormone ligand conformation and receptor selectivity

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is the central regulator of reproduction in vertebrates. GnRHs have recently been identified in protochordates and retain the conserved N- and C-terminal domains involved in receptor binding and activation. GnRHs of the jawed vertebrates have a central achiral amino acid (glycine) that favors a type II' beta-turn such that the N- and C-terminal domains are closely apposed in binding the GnRH receptor. However, protochordate GnRHs have a chiral amino acid in this position, suggesting that they bind their receptors in a more extended form. We demonstrate here that a protochordate GnRH receptor does not distinguish GnRHs with achiral or chiral amino acids, whereas GnRH receptors of jawed vertebrates are highly selective for GnRHs with the central achiral glycine. The poor activity of the protochordate GnRH was increased >10-fold at vertebrate receptors by replacement of the chiral amino acid with glycine or a d-amino acid, which favor the type II' beta-turn. Structural analysis of the GnRHs using ion mobility-mass spectrometry and molecular modeling showed a greater propensity for a type II' beta-turn in GnRHs with glycine or a d-amino acid, which correlates with binding affinity at vertebrate receptors. These findings indicate that the substitution of glycine for a chiral amino acid in GnRH during evolution allows a more constrained conformation for receptor binding and that this subtle single amino acid substitution in a site remote from the ligand functional domains has marked effects on its structure and activity.

Synthesis and biological evaluation of novel macrocyclic bis-7-azaindolylmaleimides as potent and highly selective glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3 beta) inhibitors

Palladium catalyzed cross-coupling reactions were used to synthesize two key intermediates 3 and 5 that resulted in the synthesis of novel series of macrocyclic bis-7-azaindolylmaleimides. Among the three series of macrocycles, the oxygen atom and thiophene containing linkers yielded molecules with higher inhibitory potency at GSK-3 beta (K(i)=0.011-0.079 microM) while the nitrogen atom containing linkers yielded molecules with lower potency (K(i)=0.150->1 microM). Compound 33 and 36 displayed 1-2 orders of magnitude selectivity at GSK-3 beta against CDK2, PKC beta II, Rsk3 and little or no inhibitions to the other 62 protein kinases. Compound 46 was at least 100-fold more selective towards GSK-3 beta than PKC beta II, and it had little or no activity against a panel of 65 protein kinases, almost behaved as a GSK-3 beta 'specific inhibitor'. All three compounds showed good potency in GS assay. Molecular docking studies were conducted in an attempt to rationalize the GSK-3 beta selectivity of azaindolylmaleimides. The high selectivity, inhibitory potency and cellular activities of these non-crown-ether typed molecules may provide them as a valuable pharmacological tools in elucidating the complex roles of GSK-3 beta in cell signaling pathways and the potential usage for the treatment of elevated level of GSK-3 beta involved diseases.

Pro7.33(303) of the human GnRH receptor regulates selective binding of mammalian GnRH

Mammalian gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) receptors have a conserved acidic residue (Glu7.32(301) or Asp7.32(302)) in extracellular loop (ECL) three that confers selectivity for mammalian GnRH, which has Arg8. Comparison of mammalian and non-mammalian GnRH receptors suggested that the acidic residue is not the only determinant of ligand selectivity in mammalian receptors. The acidic residue is followed by a conserved Pro7.33 in mammalian GnRH receptors, but not non-mammalian receptors. Unique structural constraints imposed by Pro residues suggested that Pro7.33 determines selective binding of Arg8-containing GnRH, by stabilising the conformation of the third extracellular loop of the receptor. Substituting Pro7.33(303) or introducing Pro to position 7.31 decreased affinity for GnRH, but not analogs lacking Arg8. Substituting Pro7.33(303) changed the predicted alpha-helix content of the loop-helix interface. These results show that Pro7.33(303) of the human GnRH receptor is required for selective high affinity binding of mammalian GnRH and supports the hypothesis that Pro7.33(303) stabilises a loop conformation that is necessary for selective ligand binding.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors

GnRH and its analogs are used extensively for the treatment of hormone-dependent diseases and assisted reproductive techniques. They also have potential as novel contraceptives in men and women. A thorough delineation of the molecular mechanisms involved in ligand binding, receptor activation, and intracellular signal transduction is kernel to understanding disease processes and the development of specific interventions. Twenty-three structural variants of GnRH have been identified in protochordates and vertebrates. In many vertebrates, three GnRHs and three cognate receptors have been identified with distinct distributions and functions. In man, the hypothalamic GnRH regulates gonadotropin secretion through the pituitary GnRH type I receptor via activation of G(q). In-depth studies have identified amino acid residues in both the ligand and receptor involved in binding, receptor activation, and translation into intracellular signal transduction. Although the predominant coupling of the type I GnRH receptor in the gonadotrope is through productive G(q) stimulation, signal transduction can occur via other G proteins and potentially by G protein-independent means. The eventual selection of intracellular signaling may be specifically directed by variations in ligand structure. A second form of GnRH, GnRH II, conserved in all higher vertebrates, including man, is present in extrahypothalamic brain and many reproductive tissues. Its cognate receptor has been cloned from various vertebrate species, including New and Old World primates. The human gene homolog of this receptor, however, has a frame-shift and stop codon, and it appears that GnRH II signaling occurs through the type I GnRH receptor. There has been considerable plasticity in the use of different GnRHs, receptors, and signaling pathways for diverse functions. Delineation of the structural elements in GnRH and the receptor, which facilitate differential signaling, will contribute to the development of novel interventive GnRH analogs.

Dose-dependent switch in response of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons to GnRH mediated through the type I GnRH receptor

Pulsatile release of GnRH provides central control of reproduction. GnRH neuron activity is likely synchronized to produce hormone pulses, but the mechanisms are largely unknown. One candidate for communication among these neurons is GnRH itself. Cultured embryonic and immortalized GnRH neurons express GnRH receptor type I (GnRHR-1), but expression has not been shown in adult GnRH neurons. Using mice that express green fluorescent protein (GFP) in GnRH neurons, we tested whether adult GnRH neurons express GnRHR-1. GFP-positive (n = 42) and -negative neurons (n = 22) were harvested from brain slices, and single-cell RT-PCR was performed with cell contents. Fifty-two percent of the GnRH neurons tested expressed GnRHR-1, but only 9% of non-GnRH hypothalamic neurons expressed GnRHR-1; no false harvest controls (n = 13) were positive. GnRHR-1 expression within GnRH neurons suggested a physiological ultrashort loop feedback role for GnRH. Thus, we examined the effect of GnRH on the firing rate of GnRH neurons. Low-dose GnRH (20 nm) significantly decreased firing rate in 12 of 22 neurons (by 42 +/- 4%, P < 0.05), whereas higher doses increased firing rate (200 nm, five of 10 neurons, 72 +/- 26%; 2000 nm, nine of 13 neurons, 53 +/- 8%). Interestingly, the fraction of GnRH neurons responding was similar to the fraction in which GnRHR-1 was detected. Together, these data demonstrate that a subpopulation of GnRH neurons express GnRHR-1 and respond to GnRH with altered firing. The dose dependence suggests that this autocrine control of GnRH neurons may be not only a mechanism for generating and modulating pulsatile release, but it may also be involved in the switch between pulse and surge modes of release.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor-mediated growth suppression of immortalized LbetaT2 gonadotrope and stable HEK293 cell lines

Continuous administration of GnRH analogs results in an inhibition of tumor growth that may be mediated in part by direct activation of GnRH receptors (GnRHRs) expressed on tumor cells. However, it is not fully understood how the GnRHR mediates these growth effects. This study aimed to determine how the presence or absence of this receptor in different cell types might affect the ability of GnRH to directly mediate growth effects. We demonstrate that continuous treatment with GnRH or a GnRH agonist (GnRHA) induces an antiproliferative effect in a gonadotrope-derived cell line (LbetaT2) and also in HEK293 cells stably expressing either the rat or human GnRHR. The antiproliferative effect was time and dose dependent and was verified using [3H]thymidine incorporation, light microscopy, and analysis of cell number. Inhibition was specifically mediated via the GnRHR, as cotreatment of the GnRHR-expressing cell lines with a GnRH antagonist blocked the growth-suppressive effect induced by GnRHA treatment. Cell cycle analysis revealed that GnRHA-treated HEK/GnRHR cell lines induced an accumulation of cells in the G2/M phase, whereas a G0/G1 arrest was observed in LbetaT2 cells. GnRHA treatment also caused a small, but significant, increase in apoptotic cells. This study provides evidence for a direct role for the GnRHR in mediating antiproliferative events in two cell systems, neither of which was derived from extrapituitary reproductive tumors. The ability to induce these effects, regardless of the cell system involved, has implications regarding the use of GnRH analogs for the treatment of endocrine-related disorders and tumors.

Preferential ligand selectivity of the monkey type-II gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor for GnRH-2 and its analogs

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) regulates the reproductive system through the cognate GnRH receptor (GnRHR) in vertebrates. In this study, we cloned a cDNA encoding the full-length open reading frame sequence for green monkey type-II GnRHR (gmGnRHR-2) from the genomic DNA of CV-1 cells. Transient transfection study showed that gmGnRHR-2 was able to induce both c-fos promoter- and cAMP responsive element-driven transcriptional activities, indicating that gmGnRHR-2 couples to both Gs- and Gq/11-linked signaling pathways. gmGnRHR-2 responded better to GnRH-2 ([His5, Trp7, Tyr8]GnRH) than GnRH-1 ([Tyr5, Leu7, Arg8]GnRH). Substitutions of His5, Trp7, and/or Tyr8 in GnRH-1 increased the potency to activate gmGnRHR-2, suggesting that individual His5, Trp7, and Tyr8 in GnRH-2 contributed to differential ligand sensitivity of gmGnRHR-2. Substitution of D-Ala for Gly6 in GnRH-2 increased the potency to activate the receptor, suggesting that GnRH-2 has a constrained conformation when it binds to the receptor. GnRH-induced gmGnRHR-2 activation was specifically inhibited by GnRH-2 antagonists, Trptorelix-1 and -2, but not by a GnRH-1 antagonist, Cetrorelix. In conclusion, gmGnRHR-2 revealed preferential ligand selectivity for GnRH-2 and its analogs, suggesting that gmGnRHR-2 has a functional activity that is different from mammalian type-I GnRHRs but similar to non-mammalian GnRHRs.

GnRH II and type II GnRH receptors

Hypothalamic gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH I), which is of a variable structure in vertebrates, is the central regulator of the reproductive system through its stimulation of gonadotrophin release from the pituitary. A second form of GnRH (GnRH II) is ubiquitous and conserved in structure from fish to humans, suggesting that it has important functions and a discriminating receptor that selects against structural change. GnRH II is distributed in discrete regions of the central and peripheral nervous systems and in nonneural tissues. The cognate receptor for GnRH II has recently been cloned from amphibians and mammals. It is highly selective for GnRH II, has a similar distribution to GnRH II in the nervous system and, notably, in areas associated with sexual behaviour. It is also found in reproductive tissues. An established function of GnRH II is in the inhibition of M currents (K(+) channels) through the GnRH II receptor in the amphibian sympathetic ganglion, and it might act through this mechanism as a neuromodulator in the central nervous system. The conservation of structure over 500 million years and the wide tissue distribution of GnRH II suggest that it has a variety of reproductive and nonreproductive functions and will be a productive area of research.