Monitoring Gq-coupled receptor response through inositol phosphate quantification with the IP-One assay

Quantifying Gq Signaling Using the IP1 Homogenous Time-Resolved Fluorescence (HTRF) Assay

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play pivotal roles in cellular signaling and can regulate several cellular functions such as proliferation, secretion, protein expression, and cellular metabolism. Coupling of GPCRs to members of the Gq/11 protein family results in activation of inositol trisphosphate (IP3) and accumulation of calcium intracellularly. This protocol chapter outlines a step-by-step guide for utilizing the inositol phosphate-1 (IP1) accumulation assay, a time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET) method, to investigate Gq-IP3 signaling. The assay serves as a valuable tool for those conducting pharmacological investigations and compound screening targeting this critical cellular pathway. This protocol chapter covers experimental setup, sample preparation, and data analysis, providing researchers with an in-depth guide to explore the pharmacology of Gq-coupled receptors.

Novel non-peptide uracil-derived human gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor antagonists

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is the main regulator of the reproductive system, acting on gonadotropic cells by binding to the GnRH1 receptor (GnRH1R). Traditionally, therapies targeting this receptor have relied on peptide modulators, which required subcutaneous or intramuscular injections. Due to the limitations of the parenteral administrations, there is a growing interest in developing oral small molecule modulators of GnRH1R as more convenient therapeutic alternatives. In this study, we examined the potential of chemically modifying elagolix, the first approved non-peptide, orally active GnRH1R antagonist, to increase its atropisomeric properties by introducing new moieties. We designed and synthesized the thio-uracil (1) and cytosine (2) derivatives of elagolix, both demonstrating GnRH1R antagonistic activities, with EC50 values of 39 and 110 nM, respectively. The atropisomers of 1 and 2 were efficiently separated using silica gel chromatography, and extensive NMR investigation, supported by Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations, allowed us to define their conformations and rotational barriers. Docking and Molecular Dynamics (MD) studies revealed that 1 and 2 bind to GnRH1R with ΔG values comparable to elagolix, but through distinct binding modes. These results highlight the potential of non-peptide modulators to effectively modulate GnRH1R activity and pave the way for developing novel modulators.

Mg2+ supplementation treats secretory diarrhea in mice by activating calcium-sensing receptor in intestinal epithelial cells

Cholera is a global health problem with no targeted therapies. The Ca2+-sensing receptor (CaSR) is a regulator of intestinal ion transport and a therapeutic target for diarrhea, and Ca2+ is considered its main agonist. We found that increasing extracellular Ca2+ had a minimal effect on forskolin-induced Cl- secretion in human intestinal epithelial T84 cells. However, extracellular Mg2+, an often-neglected CaSR agonist, suppressed forskolin-induced Cl- secretion in T84 cells by 65% at physiological levels seen in stool (10 mM). The effect of Mg2+ occurred via the CaSR/Gq signaling that led to cAMP hydrolysis. Mg2+ (10 mM) also suppressed Cl- secretion induced by cholera toxin, heat-stable E. coli enterotoxin, and vasoactive intestinal peptide by 50%. In mouse intestinal closed loops, luminal Mg2+ treatment (20 mM) inhibited cholera toxin-induced fluid accumulation by 40%. In a mouse intestinal perfusion model of cholera, addition of 10 mM Mg2+ to the perfusate reversed net fluid transport from secretion to absorption. These results suggest that Mg2+ is the key CaSR activator in mouse and human intestinal epithelia at physiological levels in stool. Since stool Mg2+ concentrations in patients with cholera are essentially zero, oral Mg2+ supplementation, alone or in an oral rehydration solution, could be a potential therapy for cholera and other cyclic nucleotide-mediated secretory diarrheas.

Detecting and measuring of GPCR signaling - comparison of human induced pluripotent stem cells and immortal cell lines

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a large family of transmembrane proteins that play a major role in many physiological processes, and thus GPCR-targeted drug development has been widely promoted. Although research findings generated in immortal cell lines have contributed to the advancement of the GPCR field, the homogenous genetic backgrounds, and the overexpression of GPCRs in these cell lines make it difficult to correlate the results with clinical patients. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have the potential to overcome these limitations, because they contain patient specific genetic information and can differentiate into numerous cell types. To detect GPCRs in hiPSCs, highly selective labeling and sensitive imaging techniques are required. This review summarizes existing resonance energy transfer and protein complementation assay technologies, as well as existing and new labeling methods. The difficulties of extending existing detection methods to hiPSCs are discussed, as well as the potential of hiPSCs to expand GPCR research towards personalized medicine.

Optogenetic induction of hibernation-like state with modified human Opsin4 in mice

We recently determined that the excitatory manipulation of Qrfp-expressing neurons in the preoptic area of the hypothalamus (quiescence-inducing neurons [Q neurons]) induced a hibernation-like hypothermic/hypometabolic state (QIH) in mice. To control the QIH with a higher time resolution, we develop an optogenetic method using modified human opsin4 (OPN4; also known as melanopsin), a G protein-coupled-receptor-type blue-light photoreceptor. C-terminally truncated OPN4 (OPN4dC) stably and reproducibly induces QIH for at least 24 h by illumination with low-power light (3 μW, 473 nm laser) with high temporal resolution. The high sensitivity of OPN4dC allows us to transcranially stimulate Q neurons with blue-light-emitting diodes and non-invasively induce the QIH. OPN4dC-mediated QIH recapitulates the kinetics of the physiological changes observed in natural hibernation, revealing that Q neurons concurrently contribute to thermoregulation and cardiovascular function. This optogenetic method may facilitate identification of the neural mechanisms underlying long-term dormancy states such as sleep, daily torpor, and hibernation.

Investigating the ligand agonism and antagonism at the D2long receptor by dynamic mass redistribution

The signalling of the D₂ receptor (D₂R), a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), is a complex process consisting of various components. For the screening of D₂R ligands, methods quantifying distinct second messengers such as cAMP or the interaction of the receptor with β-arrestin, are commonly employed. In contrast, a label-free biosensor technology like dynamic mass redistribution (DMR), where it is mostly unknown how the individual signalling pathways contribute to the DMR signal, provides a holistic readout of the complex cellular response. In this study, we report the successful application of the DMR technology to CHO-K1 cells stably expressing the human dopamine D_2long receptor. In real-time kinetic experiments, studies of D₂R reference compounds yielded results for agonists and antagonists that were consistent with those obtained by conventional methods and also allowed a discrimination between partial and full agonists. Furthermore, investigations on the signalling pathway in CHO-K1 hD_2longR cells identified the Gα_i/o protein as the main proximal trigger of the observed DMR response. The present study has shown that the DMR technology is a valuable method for the characterisation of putative new ligands and, due to its label-free nature, suggests its use for deorphanisation studies of GPCRs.

Discovery of oridonin as a novel agonist for BRS-3

BACKGROUND

Bombesin Receptor Subtype-3 (BRS-3, Bombesin-like receptor, BB₃) is an orphan G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR). Recent studies have shown that BRS-3 played a vital role in glucose regulation, insulin secretion, and energy homeostasis. Therefore, discovering more novel exogenous ligands with diverse structures for BRS-3 will be of great importance for target validation and drug development.

PURPOSE

In this study, we aim to discover new agonists of BRS-3 from our natural compound libraries, providing a new probe to study the function of BRS-3.

STUDY DESIGN

Multiple cell-based assays and in vivo experiments were performed to identify the new ligand.

METHODS

BRS-3 overexpression cells were coupled with FLIPR assay, homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF) IP-ONE assay, dynamic mass redistribution (DMR) assay, β-arrestin2 recruitment assay, and western blot to determine receptor activation and downstream signaling events. To further validate the target of BRS-3, a series of in vitro and in vivo experiences were conducted, including glucose uptake, glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) transportation in C2C12, and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in mice.

RESULTS

We discovered and identified oridonin as a novel small molecule agonist of BRS-3, with a moderate affinity (EC₅₀ of 2.236 × 10^-7 M in calcium mobilization assay), specificity, and subtype selectivity. Further in vitro and in vivo tests demonstrated that oridonin exerted beneficial effects in glucose homeostasis through activating BRS-3.

CONCLUSIONS

Oridonin, as the discovered new ligand of BRS-3, provides a valuable tool compound to investigate BRS-3's function, especially for target validation in type 2 diabetes and obesity. Oridonin is promising as a lead compound in the treatment of metabolic disorders. Compared to the known agonists of BRS-3, we can take advantage of the multiple reported pharmacological activities of ODN as a natural product and assess whether these pharmacological activities are regulated by BRS-3. This may facilitate the discovery of novel functions of BRS-3.

Adipocyte Gq signaling is a regulator of glucose and lipid homeostasis in mice

Obesity is the major driver of the global epidemic in type 2 diabetes (T2D). In individuals with obesity, impaired insulin action leads to increased lipolysis in adipocytes, resulting in elevated plasma free fatty acid (FFA) levels that promote peripheral insulin resistance, a hallmark of T2D. Here we show, by using a combined genetic/biochemical/pharmacologic approach, that increased adipocyte lipolysis can be prevented by selective activation of adipocyte Gq signaling in vitro and in vivo (in mice). Activation of this pathway by a Gq-coupled designer receptor or by an agonist acting on an endogenous adipocyte Gq-coupled receptor (CysLT2 receptor) greatly improved glucose and lipid homeostasis in obese mice or in mice with adipocyte insulin receptor deficiency. Our findings identify adipocyte Gq signaling as an essential regulator of whole-body glucose and lipid homeostasis and should inform the development of novel classes of GPCR-based antidiabetic drugs.

Targeting GPCRs and Their Signaling as a Therapeutic Option in Melanoma

Simple Summary

Sixteen G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have been involved in melanogenesis or melanomagenesis. Here, we review these GPCRs, their associated signaling, and therapies.

Abstract

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) serve prominent roles in melanocyte lineage physiology, with an impact at all stages of development, as well as on mature melanocyte functions. GPCR ligands are present in the skin and regulate melanocyte homeostasis, including pigmentation. The role of GPCRs in the regulation of pigmentation and, consequently, protection against external aggression, such as ultraviolet radiation, has long been established. However, evidence of new functions of GPCRs directly in melanomagenesis has been highlighted in recent years. GPCRs are coupled, through their intracellular domains, to heterotrimeric G-proteins, which induce cellular signaling through various pathways. Such signaling modulates numerous essential cellular processes that occur during melanomagenesis, including proliferation and migration. GPCR-associated signaling in melanoma can be activated by the binding of paracrine factors to their receptors or directly by activating mutations. In this review, we present melanoma-associated alterations of GPCRs and their downstream signaling and discuss the various preclinical models used to evaluate new therapeutic approaches against GPCR activity in melanoma. Recent striking advances in our understanding of the structure, function, and regulation of GPCRs will undoubtedly broaden melanoma treatment options in the future.

Employing the Operational Model to Measure System-Independent OTR Efficacy

Ideally, pharmacological analysis is based on quantitative measurements applied toward unveiling biological mechanisms and guiding medicinal chemistry efforts in drug discovery and basic research. The most robust analysis frameworks generate findings which can be dissociated from the specific experimental setting to provide insights of a broader scope. With insufficient efficacy being the leading cause of drug failures in late-stage clinical trials, more rigorous preclinical definitions might assist in better translation. This chapter details a new method for accessing the Black and Leff operational model of agonism using a stable Flp-In™ T-REx™ HEK293 cell line under tetracycline-dependent control of OTR expression. We cover steps for performing the G_q-coupled HTRF^® IP-One assay, curve-fitting data, calculating and statistically representing system-independent drug activity, predicting responses in different sensitivities, and plotting of multivariate analyses.

Diacylglycerol Kinase Inhibition Reduces Airway Contraction by Negative Feedback Regulation of Gq-signaling

Exaggerated airway smooth muscle (ASM) contraction regulated by the Gq family of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) causes airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) in asthma. Activation of Gq-coupled GPCRs leads to phospholipase C (PLC)-mediated generation of inositol triphosphate (IP3) and diacylglycerol (DAG). DAG signaling is terminated by the action of DAG kinase (DGK) that converts DAG into phosphatidic acid (PA). Our previous study demonstrated that DGKα and ζ isoform knockout mice are protected from the development of allergen-induced AHR. Here we aimed at determining the mechanism by which DGK regulates ASM contraction. Activity of DGK isoforms was inhibited in human ASM cells by siRNA-mediated knockdown of DGKα and ζwhile pharmacological inhibition was achieved by pan DGK inhibitor I (R59022). Effects of DGK inhibition on contractile agonist-induced activation of PLC and myosin light chain (MLC) kinase, elevation of IP3, and calcium levels were assessed. Further, we employed human precision-cut lung slices and assessed the role of DGK in agonist-induced bronchoconstriction. DGK inhibitor I attenuated histamine- and methacholine-induced bronchoconstriction. DGKα and ζ knockdown or pre-treatment with DGK inhibitor I resulted in attenuated agonist-induced phosphorylation of MLC and myosin light chain phosphatase in ASM cells. Further, DGK inhibition decreased Gq agonist-induced calcium elevation, generation of IP3, and increased histamine-induced production of PA. Finally, DGK inhibition or treatment with DAG analog resulted in attenuation of activation of PLC in human ASM cells. Our findings suggest that DGK inhibition perturbed the DAG:PA ratio resulting in inhibition of Gq-PLC activation in a negative feedback manner, resulting in protection against ASM contraction.

Precapillary sphincters and pericytes at first-order capillaries as key regulators for brain capillary perfusion

Rises in local neural activity trigger local increases of cerebral blood flow, which is essential to match local energy demands. However, the specific location of microvascular flow control is incompletely understood. Here, we used two-photon microscopy to observe brain microvasculature in vivo. Small spatial movement of a three-dimensional (3D) vasculature makes it challenging to precisely measure vessel diameter at a single x-y plane. To overcome this problem, we carried out four-dimensional (x-y-z-t) imaging of brain microvessels during exposure to vasoactive molecules in order to constrain the impact of brain movements on the recordings. We demonstrate that rises in synaptic activity, acetylcholine, nitric oxide, cyclic guanosine monophosphate, ATP-sensitive potassium channels, and endothelin-1 exert far greater effects on brain precapillary sphincters and first-order capillaries than on penetrating arterioles or downstream capillaries, but with similar kinetics. The high level of responsiveness at precapillary sphincters and first-order capillaries was matched by a higher level of α-smooth muscle actin in pericytes as compared to penetrating arterioles and downstream capillaries. Mathematical modeling based on 3D vasculature reconstruction showed that precapillary sphincters predominantly regulate capillary blood flow and pressure as compared to penetrating arterioles and downstream capillaries. Our results confirm a key role for precapillary sphincters and pericytes on first-order capillaries as sensors and effectors of endothelium- or brain-derived vascular signals.

An experimental strategy to probe Gq contribution to signal transduction in living cells

Heterotrimeric G protein subunits Gαq and Gα11 are inhibited by two cyclic depsipeptides, FR900359 (FR) and YM-254890 (YM), both of which are being used widely to implicate Gq/11 proteins in the regulation of diverse biological processes. An emerging major research question therefore is whether the cellular effects of both inhibitors are on-target, that is, mediated via specific inhibition of Gq/11 proteins, or off-target, that is, the result of nonspecific interactions with other proteins. Here we introduce a versatile experimental strategy to discriminate between these possibilities. We developed a Gαq variant with preserved catalytic activity, but refractory to FR/YM inhibition. A minimum of two amino acid changes were required and sufficient to achieve complete inhibitor resistance. We characterized the novel mutant in HEK293 cells depleted by CRISPR–Cas9 of endogenous Gαq and Gα11 to ensure precise control over the Gα-dependent cellular signaling route. Using a battery of cellular outcomes with known and concealed Gq contribution, we found that FR/YM specifically inhibited cellular signals after Gαq introduction via transient transfection. Conversely, both inhibitors were inert across all assays in cells expressing the drug-resistant variant. These findings eliminate the possibility that inhibition of non-Gq proteins contributes to the cellular effects of the two depsipeptides. We conclude that combined application of FR or YM along with the drug-resistant Gαq variant is a powerful in vitro strategy to discern on-target Gq against off-target non-Gq action. Consequently, it should be of high value for uncovering Gq input to complex biological processes with high accuracy and the requisite specificity.

Assessing Gαq/15-signaling with IP-One: Single Plate Transfection and Assay Protocol for Cell-Based High-Throughput Assay

Cell-based functional assays are an important part of compound screening and drug lead optimization, and they can also play a crucial role in the determination of the residues involved in ligand binding and signaling for a particular G-protein-coupled receptor. Conventional methods used for Gα_q/15-coupled receptors rely on the use of fluorescent probes for Ca⁺⁺ sensing (such as Fura-2 and Fluo-4) or on the incorporation of [³H]-inositol into inositol 1,4,5- triphosphate (IP3). However, these methods are not suitable for screening large libraries of compounds or for screening several mutants of the same receptor. In contrast, the IP-One assay by Cisbio is a TR-FRET assay suitable for large compound library screening when using stable cell lines that express a specific 7TMR. However, when using transiently transfected mutants of a 7TMR, this assay is not ideal, as it requires a two-step protocol of cell culture. Therefore, we have optimized the IP-One assay protocol using the reverse transfection method in 384-well plates. This offers a time- and resource-efficient alternative to the two-step protocol previously used for the screening of several mutants of Gα_q/15-coupled 7TMRs.

Radiolabelled CCK2 R Antagonists Containing PEG Linkers: Design, Synthesis and Evaluation

The cholecystokinin-2/gastrin receptor (CCK₂ R) is considered a suitable target for the development of radiolabelled antagonists, due to its overexpression in various tumours, but no such compounds are available in clinical use. Therefore, we designed novel 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid-conjugated ligands based on CCK₂ R antagonist Z360/nastorazepide. As a proof of concept that CCK₂ R antagonistic activity can be retained by extending the Z360/nastorazepide structure using suitable linker, we present herein three compounds containing various PEG linkers synthesised on solid phase and in solution. The antagonistic properties were measured in a functional assay in the A431-CCK₂ R cell line (in the presence of agonist G17), with IC₅₀ values of 3.31, 4.11 and 10.4 nM for compounds containing PEG₄ , PEG₆ and PEG₁₂ , respectively. All compounds were successfully radiolabelled with indium-111, lutetium-177 and gallium-68 (incorporation of radiometal >95 %). The gallium-68-labelled compounds were stable for up to 2 h (PBS, 37 °C). log D_7.4 values were determined for indium-111- and gallium-68-labelled compounds, showing improved hydrophilicity compared to the reference compound.

Cell-Based In Vitro Assay Automation: Balancing Technology and Data Reproducibility/Predictability

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are modulated by many marketed drugs, and as such, they continue to be key targets for drug discovery and development. Many GPCR targets at Merck Research Laboratories (MRL) are profiled using homogenous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF) inositol monophosphate (IP-1) cell-based functional assays using adherent cells in 384-well microplates. Due to discrepancies observed across several in vitro assays supporting lead optimization structure-activity relationship (SAR) efforts, different assay paradigms were evaluated for removing growth medium from the assay plates prior to compound addition and determination of IP-1 accumulation. Remarkably, employing the noncontact centrifugation BlueWasher method leads to left-shifted potencies across multiple structural classes and rescues "false negatives" relative to the traditional manual evacuation method. Further, assay performance is improved, with the minimum significant ratio of challenging chemotypes dropping from ~5-6 to <3. While the impact of BlueWasher on a broad range of our GPCR targets remains to be determined, for highly protein-bound small molecules, it provides a path toward improving assay reproducibility across scientists and sites as well as reducing replicates in SAR assay support.

The pharmacologic characterization of allosteric molecules: Gq protein activation

Context: Drugs such as positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) produce complex behaviors when acting on tissues in different physiological contexts in vivo. Objective: This study describes the use of functional assays of varying receptor sensitivity to unveil the various behaviors of PAMs and thus quantify allosteric effect through system independent scales. Materials and methods: Muscarinic receptor activation with acetylcholine (ACh) was used to the demonstrate activity of the PAM agonist 1-(4-methoxybenzyl)-4-oxo-1,4-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxylic acid, Benzyl quinolone carboxylic acid (BQCA) in terms of direct agonism, potentiation of ACh affinity, and ACh efficacy. Concentration-response curves were fit to the functional allosteric model to yield indices of agonism (τ_B), effects on affinity (α cooperativity), and efficacy (β cooperativity). Results: It is shown that a highly sensitive functional assay revealed the direct efficacy of BQCA as an agonist and relatively insensitive cells (produced by chemical alkylation of muscarinic receptor with phenoxybenzamine) revealed a positive allosteric effect of BQCA on ACh efficacy. A wide range of functional assay sensitivities produced a complex pattern of behavior for BQCA all of which was accurately quantified through the system-independent parameters of the functional allosteric model. Conclusions: The study of complex allosteric molecules in a range of functional assays of varying sensitivity allows the measurement of the complete array of activities of these molecules on receptors and also better predicts which will be seen with these in vivo where a range of tissue sensitivities is encountered.

In Vivo Pharmacological Comparison of TAK-071, a Positive Allosteric Modulator of Muscarinic M1 Receptor, and Xanomeline, an Agonist of Muscarinic M1/M4 Receptor, in Rodents

Activation of the M₁ muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (M₁R) may be an effective therapeutic approach for Alzheimer's disease (AD), dementia with Lewy bodies, and schizophrenia. Previously, the M₁R/M₄R agonist xanomeline was shown to improve cognitive function and exert antipsychotic effects in patients with AD and schizophrenia. However, its clinical development was discontinued because of its cholinomimetic side effects. We compared in vivo pharmacological profiles of a novel M₁R-selective positive allosteric modulator, TAK-071, and xanomeline in rodents. Xanomeline suppressed both methamphetamine- and MK-801-induced hyperlocomotion in mice, whereas TAK-071 suppressed only MK-801-induced hyperlocomotion. In a previous study, we showed that TAK-071 improved scopolamine-induced cognitive deficits in a rat novel object recognition task (NORT) with 33-fold margins versus cholinergic side effects (diarrhea). Xanomeline also improved scopolamine-induced cognitive impairments in a NORT; however, it had no margin versus cholinergic side effects (e.g., diarrhea, salivation, and hypoactivity) in rats. These side effects were observed even in M₁R knockout mice. Evaluation of c-Fos expression as a marker of neural activation revealed that xanomeline increased the number of c-Fos-positive cells in several cortical areas, the hippocampal formation, amygdala, and nucleus accumbens. Other than in the orbital cortex and claustrum, TAK-071 induced similar c-Fos expression patterns. When donepezil was co-administered to increase the levels of acetylcholine, the number of TAK-071-induced c-Fos-positive cells in these brain regions was increased. TAK-071, through induction of similar neural activation as that seen with xanomeline, may produce procognitive and antipsychotic effects with improved cholinergic side effects.

In Vivo Non-radioactive Assessment of mGlu5 Receptor-Activated Polyphosphoinositide Hydrolysis in Response to Systemic Administration of a Positive Allosteric Modulator

mGlu5 receptor-mediated polyphosphoinositide (PI) hydrolysis is classically measured by determining the amount of radioactivity incorporated in inositolmonophosphate (InsP) after labeling of membrane phospholipids with radioactive inositol. Although this method is historically linked to the study of mGlu receptors, it is inappropriate for the assessment of mGlu5 receptor signaling in vivo. Using a new ELISA kit we showed that systemic treatment with the selective positive allosteric modulator (PAM) of mGlu5 receptors VU0360172 enhanced InsP formation in different brain regions of CD1 or C57Black mice. The action of VU0360172 was sensitive to the mGlu5 receptor, negative allosteric modulator (NAM), MTEP, and was abolished in mice lacking mGlu5 receptors. In addition, we could demonstrate that endogenous activation of mGlu5 receptors largely accounted for the basal PI hydrolysis particularly in the prefrontal cortex. This method offers opportunity for investigation of mGlu5 receptor signaling in physiology and pathology, and could be used for the functional screening of mGlu5 receptor PAMs in living animals.

Highly Selective and Potent Ectonucleotide Pyrophosphatase-1 (NPP1) Inhibitors Based on Uridine 5'-Pα,α-Dithiophosphate Analogues

Ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase-1 (NPP1) hydrolyzes phosphodiester bonds of nucleotides such as ATP, resulting mainly in the formation of AMP and pyrophosphate. NPP1 activity plays a deleterious function in calcified aortic valve disease and calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease. Thus, inhibitors of NPP1 represent a medical need. We developed novel NPP1 inhibitors based on uridine 5'-P_α,α-dithiophosphate analogues, 9-12. All these analogues potently inhibited hNPP1 (80-100% inhibition) at 100 μM, with no, or minimal, inhibition of NPP3 and other ectonucleotidases (NTPDase1,2,3,8). These compounds showed nearly no activity at uracil-nucleotide sensitive P2Y_2,4,6-receptors and thus represent highly selective NPP1 inhibitors. The most promising inhibitor was diuridine 5'-P_α,α,5″-P_α,α-tetrathiotetraphosphate, 12, exhibiting K_i of 27 nM. Analogues 9-12 proved to be highly stable to air oxidation and to acidic and basic pH. Docking simulations suggested that the enhanced NPP1 inhibitory activity and selectivity of analogue 12 could be attributed to the simultaneous occupancy of two sites (the AMP site and an alternative site) of NPP1 by this compound.

Design, synthesis and biological studies of a library of NK1-Receptor Ligands Based on a 5-arylthiosubstituted 2-amino-4,6-diaryl-3-cyano-4H-pyran core: Switch from antagonist to agonist effect by chemical modification

A library of 5-arylthiosubstituted 2-amino-4,6-diaryl-3-cyano-4H-pyrans has been synthesized as a new family of non-peptide NK1 receptor ligands by a one-pot cascade process. Their biological effects via interaction with the NK1 receptor were experimentally determined as percentage of inhibition (for antagonists) and percentage of activation (for agonists), compared to the substance P (SP) effect, in IPone assay. A set of these amino compounds was found to inhibit the action of SP, and therefore can be considered as a new family of SP-antagonists. Interestingly, the acylation of the 2-amino position causes a switch from antagonist to agonist activity. The 5-phenylsulfonyl-2-amino derivative 17 showed the highest antagonist activity, while the 5-p-tolylsulfenyl-2-trifluoroacetamide derivative 20R showed the highest agonist effect. As expected, in the case of the 5-sulfinylderivatives, there was an enantiomeric discrimination in favor of one of the two enantiomers, specifically those with (S_S,R_C) configuration. The anticancer activity studies assessed by using human A-549 lung cancer cells and MRC-5 non-malignant lung fibroblasts, revealed a statistically significant selective cytotoxic effect of some of these 2-amino-4H-pyran derivatives toward the lung cancer cells. These studies demonstrated that the newly synthesized 4H-pyran derivatives can be used as a starting point for the synthesis of novel SP-antagonists with higher anticancer activity in the future.

A label-free screening approach targeted protease-activated receptor 1 based on dynamic mass redistribution in living cells

Protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR-1) antagonists strongly inhibit thrombin-induced platelet aggregation and are proved to be effective as anti-thrombotic drugs.

GPR142 Controls Tryptophan-Induced Insulin and Incretin Hormone Secretion to Improve Glucose Metabolism

GPR142, a putative amino acid receptor, is expressed in pancreatic islets and the gastrointestinal tract, but the ligand affinity and physiological role of this receptor remain obscure. In this study, we show that in addition to L-Tryptophan, GPR142 signaling is also activated by L-Phenylalanine but not by other naturally occurring amino acids. Furthermore, we show that Tryptophan and a synthetic GPR142 agonist increase insulin and incretin hormones and improve glucose disposal in mice in a GPR142-dependent manner. In contrast, Phenylalanine improves in vivo glucose disposal independently of GPR142. Noteworthy, refeeding-induced elevations in insulin and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide are blunted in Gpr142 null mice. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate GPR142 is a Tryptophan receptor critically required for insulin and incretin hormone regulation and suggest GPR142 agonists may be effective therapies that leverage amino acid sensing pathways for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Resonance Energy Transfer-Based Approaches to Study GPCRs

Since their discovery, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute one of the most studied proteins leading to important discoveries and perspectives in terms of their biology and implication in physiology and pathophysiology. This is mostly linked to the remarkable advances in the development and application of the biophysical resonance energy transfer (RET)-based approaches, including bioluminescence and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (BRET and FRET, respectively). Indeed, BRET and FRET have been extensively applied to study different aspects of GPCR functioning such as their activation and regulation either statically or dynamically, in real-time and intact cells. Consequently, our view on GPCRs has considerably changed opening new challenges for the study of GPCRs in their native tissues in the aim to get more knowledge on how these receptors control the biological responses. Moreover, the technological aspect of this field of research promises further developments for robust and reliable new RET-based assays that may be compatible with high-throughput screening as well as drug discovery programs.

A Broad G Protein-Coupled Receptor Internalization Assay that Combines SNAP-Tag Labeling, Diffusion-Enhanced Resonance Energy Transfer, and a Highly Emissive Terbium Cryptate

Although G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) internalization has long been considered as a major aspect of the desensitization process that tunes ligand responsiveness, internalization is also involved in receptor resensitization and signaling, as well as the ligand scavenging function of some atypical receptors. Internalization thus contributes to the diversity of GPCR-dependent signaling, and its dynamics and quantification in living cells has generated considerable interest. We developed a robust and sensitive assay to follow and quantify ligand-induced and constitutive-induced GPCR internalization but also receptor recycling in living cells. This assay is based on diffusion-enhanced resonance energy transfer (DERET) between cell surface GPCRs labeled with a luminescent terbium cryptate donor and a fluorescein acceptor present in the culture medium. GPCR internalization results in a quantifiable reduction of energy transfer. This method yields a high signal-to-noise ratio due to time-resolved measurements. For various GPCRs belonging to different classes, we demonstrated that constitutive and ligand-induced internalization could be monitored as a function of time and ligand concentration, thus allowing accurate quantitative determination of kinetics of receptor internalization but also half-maximal effective or inhibitory concentrations of compounds. In addition to its selectivity and sensitivity, we provided evidence that DERET-based internalization assay is particularly suitable for characterizing biased ligands. Furthermore, the determination of a Z'-factor value of 0.45 indicates the quality and suitability of DERET-based internalization assay for high-throughput screening (HTS) of compounds that may modulate GPCRs internalization.

The apelin receptor inhibits the angiotensin II type 1 receptor via allosteric trans-inhibition

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The apelin receptor (APJ) is often co-expressed with the angiotensin II type-1 receptor (AT1) and acts as an endogenous counter-regulator. Apelin antagonizes Ang II signalling, but the precise molecular mechanism has not been elucidated. Understanding this interaction may lead to new therapies for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The physical interaction of APJ and AT1 receptors was detected by co-immunoprecipitation and bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET). Functional and pharmacological interactions were measured by G-protein-dependent signalling and recruitment of β-arrestin. Allosterism and cooperativity between APJ and AT1 were measured by radioligand binding assays.

KEY RESULTS

Apelin, but not Ang II, induced APJ : AT1 heterodimerization forced AT1 into a low-affinity state, reducing Ang II binding. Likewise, apelin mediated a concentration-dependent depression in the maximal production of inositol phosphate (IP(1) ) and β-arrestin recruitment to AT1 in response to Ang II. The signal depression approached a limit, the magnitude of which was governed by the cooperativity indicative of a negative allosteric interaction. Fitting the data to an operational model of allosterism revealed that apelin-mediated heterodimerization significantly reduces Ang II signalling efficacy. These effects were not observed in the absence of apelin.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Apelin-dependent heterodimerization between APJ and AT1 causes negative allosteric regulation of AT1 function. As AT1 is significant in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease, these findings suggest that impaired apelin and APJ function may be a common underlying aetiology.

LINKED ARTICLE

This article is commented on by Goupil et al., pp. 1101-1103 of this issue. To view this commentary visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.12040.

Exploring the active conformation of cyclohexane carboxylate positive allosteric modulators of the type 4 metabotropic glutamate receptor

The active conformation of a family of metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 4 (mGlu4 ) positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) with the cyclohexane 1,2-dicarboxylic scaffold present in cis-2-(3,5-dichlorophenylcarbamoyl)cyclohexanecarboxylic acid (VU0155041) was investigated by testing structurally similar six-membered ring compounds that have a locked conformation. The norbornane and cyclohexane molecules designed as mGlu4 conformational probes and the enantiomers of the trans diastereomer were computationally characterized and tested in mGlu4 pharmacological assays. The results support a VU0155041 active conformation, with the chair cyclohexane having the aromatic amide substituent in an axial position and the carboxylate in an equatorial position. Moreover, the receptor displays enantiomeric discrimination of the chiral PAMs. The constructed pharmacophore characterized a highly constrained mGlu4 allosteric binding site, thus providing a step forward in structure-based drug design for mGlu4 PAMs.

A novel immunomodulatory effect of ugonin U in human neutrophils via stimulation of phospholipase C

Neutrophils have a crucial role in the immune system and are the first line of defense against pathogenic invaders. Neutrophil activation is required for their defensive function and can be induced by diverse stimuli, through either binding to cell surface receptors or direct intracellular target molecule stimulation. In this study, we found that 4″a,5″,6″,7″,8″,8″a-hexahydro-5,3',4'-trihydroxy-5″,5″,8″a-trimethyl-4H-chromeno [2″,3″:7,6]flavone (ugonin U), a flavonoid isolated from Helminthostachys zeylanica (L) Hook, significantly induced superoxide production and release in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. A series of experiments was performed to dissect the mechanism of ugonin U-induced respiratory burst in human neutrophils. Our results demonstrated that ugonin U induced a slow increase in intracellular Ca(2+), which was necessary for ugonin U-stimulated superoxide release. Use of a formyl peptide receptor (FPR) blocker, G protein inhibitor, and protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) inhibitor proved that FPR, G proteins, and PTKs were not associated with ugonin U-induced respiratory burst. Additionally, immunoblotting results revealed that ugonin U did not affect the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases and protein tyrosine. Nevertheless, a phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor and an inositol triphosphate (IP3) receptor antagonist considerably suppressed ugonin U-stimulated Ca(2+) mobilization and subsequent superoxide release. Ugonin U also induced an increase in intracellular IP3 formation, which could be blocked using a PLC inhibitor. In conclusion, our study reveals that ugonin U represents the first identified natural flavonoid compound to directly stimulate PLC. Moreover, ugonin U induces respiratory burst via the PLC/IP3/Ca(2+) pathway in human neutrophils.

Homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence-based assay to monitor extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling in a high-throughput format

The extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs) are key components of multiple important cell signaling pathways regulating diverse biological responses. This signaling is characterized by phosphorylation cascades leading to ERK1/2 activation and promoted by various cell surface receptors including G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). We report the development of a new cell-based Phospho-ERK1/2 assay (designated Phospho-ERK), which is a sandwich proximity-based assay using the homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence technology. We have validated the assay on endogenously expressed ERK1/2 activated by the epidermal growth factor as a prototypical RTK, as well as various GPCRs belonging to different classes and coupling to different heterotrimeric G proteins. The assay was successfully miniaturized in 384-well plates using various cell lines endogenously, transiently, or stably expressing the different receptors. The validation was performed for agonists, antagonists, and inhibitors in dose-response as well as kinetic analysis, and the signaling and pharmacological properties of the different receptors were reproduced. Furthermore, the determination of a Z'-factor value of 0.7 indicates the potential of the Phospho-ERK assay for high-throughput screening of compounds that may modulate ERK1/2 signaling. Finally, our study is of great interest in the current context of investigating ERK1/2 signaling with respect to the emerging concepts of biased ligands, G protein-dependent/independent ERK1/2 activation, and functional transactivation between GPCRs and RTKs, illustrating the importance of considering the ERK1/2 pathway in cell signaling.

Allosteric modulation and functional selectivity of G protein-coupled receptors

Agonists of a single G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) may activate distinct signaling pathways. Functional selectivity, an emerging concept with therapeutic relevance for GPCRs, may be due to conformational selection or stabilization with respect to particular agonists, receptor dimerization, variable expression levels of GPCRs and downstream signaling molecules, and allosteric modulation. Allosteric modulators may have potential advantages over orthosteric ligands, including greater selectivity and safety. This review focuses on functional selectivity resulting from allosteric modulation.

Potential strategies for increasing drug-discovery productivity

The productivity challenge facing the pharmaceutical industry is well documented. Strategies to improve productivity have mainly focused on enhancing efficiency, such as the application of Lean Six Sigma process improvement methods and the introduction of modeling and simulation in place of ‘wet’ experiments. While these strategies have their benefits, the real challenge is to improve effectiveness by reducing clinical failure rates. We advocate redesigning the screening cascade to identify and optimize novel compounds with improved efficacy against disease, not just with improved potency against the target. There should be greater use of disease-relevant phenotypic screens in conjunction with target-based assays to drive medicinal chemistry optimization. An opportunistic approach to polypharmacology is recommended. There should also be more emphasis on optimization of the molecular mechanism of action incorporating understanding of binding kinetics, consideration of covalent drug strategies and targeting allosteric modulators.

G protein-coupled receptor signaling analysis using homogenous time-resolved Förster resonance energy transfer (HTRF®) technology

Studying multidimensional signaling of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in search of new and better treatments requires flexible, reliable and sensitive assays in high throughput screening (HTS) formats. Today, more than half of the detection techniques used in HTS are based on fluorescence, because of the high sensitivity and rich signal, but quenching, optical interferences and light scattering are serious drawbacks. In the 1990s the HTRF® (Cisbio Bioassays, Codolet, France) technology based on Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) in a time-resolved homogeneous format was developed. This improved technology diminished the traditional drawbacks. The optimized protocol described here based on HTRF® technology was used to study the activation and signaling pathways of the calcium-sensing receptor, CaSR, a GPCR responsible for maintaining calcium homeostasis. Stimulation of the CaSR by agonists activated several pathways, which were detected by measuring accumulation of the second messengers D-myo-inositol 1-phosphate (IP1) and cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP), and by measuring the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2). Here we show how an optimized HTRF® platform with numerous advantages compared to previous assays provides a substantial and robust mode of investigating GPCR signaling. It is furthermore discussed how these assays can be optimized and miniaturized to meet HTS requirements and for screening compound libraries.

Luminescent lanthanide cryptates: from the bench to the bedside

The design and application of luminescent lanthanide cryptates for sensing biological interactions is highlighted through the review of the work performed in our laboratory and with academic collaborations. The path from the initial applications probing biochemical interaction in vitro to "state-of-the-art" cellular assays toward clinical applications using homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence technology is described. An overview of the luminescent lanthanide macrocyclic compounds developed at Cisbio in the recent past is given with an emphasis on specific constraints required by specific applications. Recent assays for drug-discovery and diagnostic purposes using both antibody-based and suicide-enzyme-based technology are illustrated. New perspectives in the field of molecular medicine and time-resolved microscopy are discussed.

Biophysical Detection of Diversity and Bias in GPCR Function

Guanine nucleotide binding protein (G protein)-coupled receptors (GPCRs) function in complexes with a range of molecules and proteins including ligands, G proteins, arrestins, ubiquitin, and other receptors. Elements of these complexes may interact constitutively or dynamically, dependent upon factors such as ligand binding, phosphorylation, and dephosphorylation. They may also be allosterically modulated by other proteins in a manner that changes temporally and spatially within the cell. Elucidating how these complexes function has been greatly enhanced by biophysical technologies that are able to monitor proximity and/or binding, often in real time and in live cells. These include resonance energy transfer approaches such as bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET). Furthermore, the use of fluorescent ligands has enabled novel insights into allosteric interactions between GPCRs. Consequently, biophysical approaches are helping to unlock the amazing diversity and bias in G protein-coupled receptor signaling.

Delineation of the GPRC6A receptor signaling pathways using a mammalian cell line stably expressing the receptor

The GPRC6A receptor is a recently "deorphanized" class C G protein-coupled receptor. We and others have shown that this receptor is coactivated by basic l-α-amino acids and divalent cations, whereas other groups have also suggested osteocalcin and testosterone to be agonists. Likewise, the GPRC6A receptor has been suggested to couple to multiple G protein classes albeit via indirect methods. Thus, the exact ligand preferences and signaling pathways are yet to be elucidated. In the present study, we generated a Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell line that stably expresses mouse GPRC6A. In an effort to establish fully the signaling properties of the receptor, we tested representatives of four previously reported GPRC6A agonist classes for activity in the Gq, Gs, Gi, and extracellular-signal regulated kinase signaling pathways. Our results confirm that GPRC6A is activated by basic l-α-amino acids and divalent cations, and for the first time, we conclusively show that these responses are mediated through the Gq pathway. We were not able to confirm previously published data demonstrating Gi- and Gs-mediated signaling; neither could we detect agonistic activity of testosterone and osteocalcin. Generation of the stable CHO cell line with robust receptor responsiveness and optimization of the highly sensitive homogeneous time resolved fluorescence technology allow fast assessment of Gq activation without previous manipulations like cotransfection of mutated G proteins. This cell-based assay system for GPRC6A is thus useful in high-throughput screening for novel pharmacological tool compounds, which are necessary to unravel the physiologic function of the receptor.

A characterization of the Manduca sexta serotonin receptors in the context of olfactory neuromodulation

Neuromodulation, the alteration of individual neuron response properties, has dramatic consequences for neural network function and is a phenomenon observed across all brain regions and taxa. However, the mechanisms underlying neuromodulation are made complex by the diversity of neuromodulatory receptors expressed within a neural network. In this study we begin to examine the receptor basis for serotonergic neuromodulation in the antennal lobe of Manduca sexta. To this end we cloned all four known insect serotonin receptor types from Manduca (the Ms5HTRs). We used phylogenetic analyses to classify the Ms5HTRs and to establish their relationships to other insect serotonin receptors, other insect amine receptors and the vertebrate serotonin receptors. Pharmacological assays demonstrated that each Ms5HTR was selective for serotonin over other endogenous amines and that serotonin had a similar potency at all four Ms5HTRs. The pharmacological assays also identified several agonists and antagonists of the different Ms5HTRs. Finally, we found that the Ms5HT1A receptor was expressed in a subpopulation of GABAergic local interneurons suggesting that the Ms5HTRs are likely expressed heterogeneously within the antennal lobe based on functional neuronal subtype.

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) and PTH-related peptide domains contributing to activation of different PTH receptor-mediated signaling pathways

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) and parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP), acting through the osteoblast PTH1 receptor (PTH1R), play important roles in bone remodeling. Intermittent administration of PTH(1-34) (teriparatide) leads to bone formation, whereas continuous administration paradoxically leads to bone resorption. Activation of PTH1R promotes regulation of multiple signaling pathways, including G(s)/cAMP/protein kinase A, G(q)/calcium/protein kinase C, β-arrestin recruitment, and extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK)1/2 phosphorylation, as well as receptor internalization, but their role in promoting anabolic and catabolic actions of PTH(1-34) are unclear. In the present investigation, a collection of PTH(1-34) and PTHrP(1-34) peptide analogs were evaluated in orthogonal human PTH1R (hPTH1R) functional assays capturing G(s)- and G(q)-signaling, β-arrestin recruitment, ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and receptor internalization to further define the patterns of PTH1R signaling that they stimulate and further establish peptide domains contributing to agonist activity. Results indicate that both N- and C-terminal domains of PTH and PTHrP are critical for activation of signaling pathways. However, modifications of both regions lead to more substantial decreases in agonist potency and efficacy to stimulate G(q)-signaling, β-arrestin recruitment, ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and receptor internalization than to stimulate G(s)-signaling. The substantial contribution of the peptide C-terminal domain in activation of hPTH1R signaling suggests a role in positioning of the peptide N-terminal region into the receptor J-domain. Several PTH and PTHrP peptides evaluated in this study promote different patterns of biased agonist signaling and may serve as useful tools to further elucidate therapeutically relevant PTH1R signaling in osteoblasts. With a better understanding of therapeutically relevant signaling, novel biased peptides with desired signaling could be designed for safer and more effective treatment of osteoporosis.

High-throughput identification and characterization of novel, species-selective GPR35 agonists

Drugs targeting the orphan receptor GPR35 have potential therapeutic application in a number of disease areas, including inflammation, metabolic disorders, nociception, and cardiovascular disease. Currently available surrogate GPR35 agonists identified from pharmacologically relevant compound libraries have limited utility due to the likelihood of off-target effects in vitro and in vivo and the variable potency that such ligands exhibit across species. We sought to identify and characterize novel GPR35 agonists to facilitate studies aimed at defining the physiologic role of GPR35. PathHunter β-arrestin recruitment technology was validated as a human GPR35 screening assay, and a high-throughput screen of 100,000 diverse low molecular weight compounds was conducted. Confirmed GPR35 agonists from five distinct chemotypes were selected for detailed characterization using both β-arrestin recruitment and G protein-dependent assays and each of the human, mouse, and rat GPR35 orthologs. These studies identified 4-{(Z)-[(2Z)-2-(2-fluorobenzylidene)-4-oxo-1,3-thiazolidin-5-ylidene]methyl}benzoic acid (compound 1) as the highest potency full agonist of human GPR35 yet described. As with certain other GPR35 agonists, compound 1 was markedly selective for human GPR35, but displayed elements of signal bias between β-arrestin-2 and G protein-dependent assays. Compound 1 also displayed competitive behavior when assessed against the human GPR35 antagonist, ML-145 (2-hydroxy-4-[4-(5Z)-5-[(E)-2-methyl-3-phenylprop-2-enylidene]-4-oxo-2-sulfanylidene-1,3-thiazolidin-3-yl]butanoylamino]benzoic acid). Of the other chemotypes studied, compounds 2 and 3 were selective for the human receptor, but compounds 4 and 5 demonstrated similar activity at human, rat, and mouse GPR35 orthologs. Further characterization of these compounds and related analogs is likely to facilitate a better understanding of GPR35 in health and disease.