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Asghar J, Latif L, Alexander SPH, Kendall DA. Development of a novel cell-based, In-Cell Western/ERK assay system for the high-throughput screening of agonists acting on the delta-opioid receptor. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:933356. [PMID: 36225576 PMCID: PMC9549385 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.933356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs) are important signaling mediators in mammalian cells and, as a result, one of the major areas of research focus. The detection and quantification of ERK phosphorylation as an index of activation is normally conducted using immunoblotting, which does not allow high-throughput drug screening. Plate-based immunocytochemical assays provide a cheaper and relatively high-throughput alternative method for quantifying ERK phosphorylation. Here, we present optimization steps aimed to increase assay sensitivity and reduce variance and cost using the LI-COR In-Cell Western (I-CW) system in a recombinant CHO-K1 cell line, over-expressing the human delta-opioid receptor (hDOPr) as a model.Methods: Cells cultured in 96-well microassay plates were stimulated with three standard/selective DOPr agonists (SNC80, ADL5859, and DADLE) and a novel selective DOPr agonist (PN6047) to elicit a phospho-ERK response as an index of activation. A number of experimental conditions were investigated during the assay development.Key results: Preliminary experiments revealed a clearly visible edge-effect which significantly increased assay variance across the plate and which was reduced by pre-incubation for 30 min at room temperature. ERK phosphorylation was detectable as early as 1 min after agonist addition, with a distinct peak at 3–5 min. Optimization of the cell seeding densities showed that 25,000 cells per well have the lowest basal phospho-ERK response and an optimal agonist ERK1/2 signal. Pre-incubation with apyrase (an ATPase) did not reduce the basal or agonist responses. All agonists produced concentration-dependent increases in phospho-ERK activation, and pertussis toxin was able to attenuate these ERK responses. Naltrindole, which is a selective DOPr antagonist, was able to antagonize the DOPr-mediated ERK activation of the ligands.Conclusion: We have developed an optimization protocol and highlighted a number of considerations when performing this high-throughput fluorescence immunocytochemical (ICC) assay measuring ERK phosphorylation in the human DOPr. The optimized protocol was found to be a more conducive option for the screening of delta agonists. This provides a basis for additional assay development to investigate opioid pharmacology. This protocol should be widely applicable for measuring ERK phosphorylation in any cell line and investigating other protein targets in GPCR drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junaid Asghar
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Gomal University, Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Medical School, QMC, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Junaid Asghar,
| | - Liaque Latif
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Medical School, QMC, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen P. H. Alexander
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Medical School, QMC, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - David A. Kendall
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Medical School, QMC, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Bishnu A, Mehrotra M, Dhadve A, Dimri S, De A, Ray P. Predicting response to platinum and non-platinum drugs through bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) based bio-molecular interactions in platinum resistant epithelial ovarian cancer. Transl Oncol 2021; 14:101193. [PMID: 34365218 PMCID: PMC8353342 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapy induced rewiring of signalling networks often lead to acquirement of platinum-resistance, thereby necessitating the use of non-platinum agents as second-line treatment particularly for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). A prior subject-specific assessment can guide the choice of optimal non-platinum agent/s and possible targeted therapeutic/s. Assessment of protein-protein interactions are superior to simple cytotoxicity assays to determine therapeutic efficacy and associated molecular responses. Utilizing improved PIP3-AKT and ERK1/2 activation Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer (BRET) sensors, we report chemotherapy-induced ERK1/2 activation predominantly in cisplatin-paclitaxel resistant EOC cells and increased activation of both ERK1/2 and AKT in malignant ascites derived cancer cells from platinum-resistant patients but not from treatment-naive or platinum-sensitive relapse patients. Further, majority of the non-platinum drugs except irinotecan increased ERK1/2 activation in platinum-taxol resistant cells as observed by live-cell BRET assessment which were associated with p90RSK1/2 and BAD activation along with upregulation of multidrug transporter gene ABCC1 and cell survival genes like cyclin D1 and Bcl2. Interestingly, only irinotecan was able to sensitize these resistant cells. Altogether, this first report of BRET based sensing of molecular pathway activations in platinum resistant cell lines and patient's derived cancer cells highlight the clinical potential of BRET sensors in management of therapy resistant cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniketh Bishnu
- Imaging Cell Signalling & Therapeutics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, TMC, Navi Mumbai 410210, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Megha Mehrotra
- Imaging Cell Signalling & Therapeutics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, TMC, Navi Mumbai 410210, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Ajit Dhadve
- Imaging Cell Signalling & Therapeutics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, TMC, Navi Mumbai 410210, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Shalini Dimri
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, India; Molecular Functional Imaging Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, TMC, Navi Mumbai 410210, India
| | - Abhijit De
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, India; Molecular Functional Imaging Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, TMC, Navi Mumbai 410210, India
| | - Pritha Ray
- Imaging Cell Signalling & Therapeutics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, TMC, Navi Mumbai 410210, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, India.
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Illuminating the complexity of GPCR pathway selectivity - advances in biosensor development. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2021; 69:142-149. [PMID: 34048988 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2021.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
It should come as no surprise that G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) continue to occupy the focus of drug discovery efforts. Their widespread expression and broad role in signal transduction underline their importance in human physiology. Despite more than 800 GPCRs sharing a common architecture, unique differences govern ligand specificity and pathway selectivity. From the relatively simplified view offered by classical radioligand binding assays and contractility responses in organ baths, the road from ligand binding to biological action has become more and more complex as we learn about the molecular mediators that underly GPCR activation and translate it to physiological outcomes. In particular, the development of biosensors has evolved over the years to dissect the capacity of a given receptor to activate individual pathways. Here, we discuss how recent biosensor development has reinforced the idea that biased signaling may become mainstream in drug discovery programs.
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Identification of Key Receptor Residues Discriminating Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)- and Luteinizing Hormone (LH)-Specific Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010151. [PMID: 33375708 PMCID: PMC7794846 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) The human luteinizing hormone (LH)/chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) receptor (LHCGR) discriminates its two hormone ligands and differs from the murine receptor (Lhr) in amino acid residues potentially involved in qualitative discerning of LH and hCG. The latter gonadotropin is absent in rodents. The aim of the study is to identify LHCGR residues involved in hCG/LH discrimination. (2) Eight LHCGR cDNAs were developed, carrying “murinizing” mutations on aminoacidic residues assumed to interact specifically with LH, hCG, or both. HEK293 cells expressing a mutant or the wild type receptor were treated with LH or hCG and the kinetics of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (pERK1/2) activation was analyzed by bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET). (3) Mutations falling within the receptor leucine reach repeat 9 and 10 (LRR9 and LRR10; K225S +T226I and R247T), of the large extracellular binding domain, are linked to loss of hormone-specific induced cAMP increase, as well as hCG-specific pERK1/2 activation, leading to a Lhr-like modulation of the LHCGR-mediated intracellular signaling pattern. These results support the hypothesis that LHCGR LRR domain is the interaction site of the hormone β-L2 loop, which differs between LH and hCG, and might be fundamental for inducing gonadotropin-specific signals. (4) Taken together, these data identify LHCGR key residues likely evolved in the human to discriminate LH/hCG specific binding.
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Sebastianutto I, Goyet E, Andreoli L, Font-Ingles J, Moreno-Delgado D, Bouquier N, Jahannault-Talignani C, Moutin E, Di Menna L, Maslava N, Pin JP, Fagni L, Nicoletti F, Ango F, Cenci MA, Perroy J. D1-mGlu5 heteromers mediate noncanonical dopamine signaling in Parkinson's disease. J Clin Invest 2020; 130:1168-1184. [PMID: 32039920 DOI: 10.1172/jci126361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Dopamine receptor D1 modulates glutamatergic transmission in cortico-basal ganglia circuits and represents a major target of L-DOPA therapy in Parkinson's disease. Here we show that D1 and metabotropic glutamate type 5 (mGlu5) receptors can form previously unknown heteromeric entities with distinctive functional properties. Interacting with Gq proteins, cell-surface D1-mGlu5 heteromers exacerbated PLC signaling and intracellular calcium release in response to either glutamate or dopamine. In rodent models of Parkinson's disease, D1-mGlu5 nanocomplexes were strongly upregulated in the dopamine-denervated striatum, resulting in a synergistic activation of PLC signaling by D1 and mGlu5 receptor agonists. In turn, D1-mGlu5-dependent PLC signaling was causally linked with excessive activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases in striatal neurons, leading to dyskinesia in animals treated with L-DOPA or D1 receptor agonists. The discovery of D1-mGlu5 functional heteromers mediating maladaptive molecular and motor responses in the dopamine-denervated striatum may prompt the development of new therapeutic principles for Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Sebastianutto
- Basal Ganglia Pathophysiology Unit, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Elise Goyet
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (IGF), University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Laura Andreoli
- Basal Ganglia Pathophysiology Unit, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Joan Font-Ingles
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (IGF), University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - David Moreno-Delgado
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (IGF), University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France.,Department of Neuroscience Research, UCB Pharma, Braine l'Alleud, Belgium
| | - Nathalie Bouquier
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (IGF), University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Enora Moutin
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (IGF), University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Luisa Di Menna
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Natallia Maslava
- Basal Ganglia Pathophysiology Unit, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jean-Philippe Pin
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (IGF), University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Laurent Fagni
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (IGF), University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrice Ango
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (IGF), University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - M Angela Cenci
- Basal Ganglia Pathophysiology Unit, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Julie Perroy
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (IGF), University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
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RedquorinXS Mutants with Enhanced Calcium Sensitivity and Bioluminescence Output Efficiently Report Cellular and Neuronal Network Activities. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21217846. [PMID: 33105848 PMCID: PMC7660078 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21217846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Considerable efforts have been focused on shifting the wavelength of aequorin Ca2+-dependent blue bioluminescence through fusion with fluorescent proteins. This approach has notably yielded the widely used GFP-aequorin (GA) Ca2+ sensor emitting green light, and tdTomato-aequorin (Redquorin), whose bioluminescence is completely shifted to red, but whose Ca2+ sensitivity is low. In the present study, the screening of aequorin mutants generated at twenty-four amino acid positions in and around EF-hand Ca2+-binding domains resulted in the isolation of six aequorin single or double mutants (AequorinXS) in EF2, EF3, and C-terminal tail, which exhibited markedly higher Ca2+ sensitivity than wild-type aequorin in vitro. The corresponding Redquorin mutants all showed higher Ca2+ sensitivity than wild-type Redquorin, and four of them (RedquorinXS) matched the Ca2+ sensitivity of GA in vitro. RedquorinXS mutants exhibited unaltered thermostability and peak emission wavelengths. Upon stable expression in mammalian cell line, all RedquorinXS mutants reported the activation of the P2Y2 receptor by ATP with higher sensitivity and assay robustness than wt-Redquorin, and one, RedquorinXS-Q159T, outperformed GA. Finally, wide-field bioluminescence imaging in mouse neocortical slices showed that RedquorinXS-Q159T and GA similarly reported neuronal network activities elicited by the removal of extracellular Mg2+. Our results indicate that RedquorinXS-Q159T is a red light-emitting Ca2+ sensor suitable for the monitoring of intracellular signaling in a variety of applications in cells and tissues, and is a promising candidate for the transcranial monitoring of brain activities in living mice.
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Bouquier N, Moutin E, Tintignac LA, Reverbel A, Jublanc E, Sinnreich M, Chastagnier Y, Averous J, Fafournoux P, Verpelli C, Boeckers T, Carnac G, Perroy J, Ollendorff V. AIMTOR, a BRET biosensor for live imaging, reveals subcellular mTOR signaling and dysfunctions. BMC Biol 2020; 18:81. [PMID: 32620110 PMCID: PMC7334845 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-020-00790-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background mTOR signaling is an essential nutrient and energetic sensing pathway. Here we describe AIMTOR, a sensitive genetically encoded BRET (Bioluminescent Resonance Energy Transfer) biosensor to study mTOR activity in living cells. Results As a proof of principle, we show in both cell lines and primary cell cultures that AIMTOR BRET intensities are modified by mTOR activity changes induced by specific inhibitors and activators of mTORC1 including amino acids and insulin. We further engineered several versions of AIMTOR enabling subcellular-specific assessment of mTOR activities. We then used AIMTOR to decipher mTOR signaling in physio-pathological conditions. First, we show that mTORC1 activity increases during muscle cell differentiation and in response to leucine stimulation in different subcellular compartments such as the cytosol and at the surface of the lysosome, the nucleus, and near the mitochondria. Second, in hippocampal neurons, we found that the enhancement of neuronal activity increases mTOR signaling. AIMTOR further reveals mTOR-signaling dysfunctions in neurons from mouse models of autism spectrum disorder. Conclusions Altogether, our results demonstrate that AIMTOR is a sensitive and specific tool to investigate mTOR-signaling dynamics in living cells and phenotype mTORopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Enora Moutin
- IGF, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Lionel A Tintignac
- University Hospital Basel, Department of Biomedecine, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Elodie Jublanc
- DMEM, University of Montpellier, INRAE, Montpellier, France
| | - Michael Sinnreich
- University Hospital Basel, Department of Biomedecine, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yan Chastagnier
- IGF, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Julien Averous
- Université Clermont Auvergne, INRAE, Unité de Nutrition Humaine, UMR1019, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Pierre Fafournoux
- Université Clermont Auvergne, INRAE, Unité de Nutrition Humaine, UMR1019, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Chiara Verpelli
- Cnr Institute of Neuroscience, Via Vanvitelli, 3220129, Milan, Italy
| | - Tobias Boeckers
- Anatomie und Zellbiologie Universität Ulm, Albert-Einstein Allee 11, Raumnummer 4105, M24, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Gilles Carnac
- Phymedexp, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Julie Perroy
- IGF, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France.
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Schmitt DL, Mehta S, Zhang J. Illuminating the kinome: Visualizing real-time kinase activity in biological systems using genetically encoded fluorescent protein-based biosensors. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2020; 54:63-69. [PMID: 31911398 PMCID: PMC7131877 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2019.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Genetically encoded fluorescent protein-based kinase biosensors are a central tool for illumination of the kinome. The adaptability and versatility of biosensors have allowed for spatiotemporal observation of real-time kinase activity in living cells and organisms. In this review, we highlight various types of kinase biosensors, along with their burgeoning applications in complex biological systems. Specifically, we focus on kinase activity reporters used in neuronal systems and whole animal settings. Genetically encoded kinase biosensors are key for elucidation of the spatiotemporal regulation of protein kinases, with broader applications beyond the Petri dish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle L Schmitt
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Sohum Mehta
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
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Greenwald EC, Mehta S, Zhang J. Genetically Encoded Fluorescent Biosensors Illuminate the Spatiotemporal Regulation of Signaling Networks. Chem Rev 2018; 118:11707-11794. [PMID: 30550275 PMCID: PMC7462118 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.8b00333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 299] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cellular signaling networks are the foundation which determines the fate and function of cells as they respond to various cues and stimuli. The discovery of fluorescent proteins over 25 years ago enabled the development of a diverse array of genetically encodable fluorescent biosensors that are capable of measuring the spatiotemporal dynamics of signal transduction pathways in live cells. In an effort to encapsulate the breadth over which fluorescent biosensors have expanded, we endeavored to assemble a comprehensive list of published engineered biosensors, and we discuss many of the molecular designs utilized in their development. Then, we review how the high temporal and spatial resolution afforded by fluorescent biosensors has aided our understanding of the spatiotemporal regulation of signaling networks at the cellular and subcellular level. Finally, we highlight some emerging areas of research in both biosensor design and applications that are on the forefront of biosensor development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric C Greenwald
- University of California , San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, BRFII , La Jolla , CA 92093-0702 , United States
| | - Sohum Mehta
- University of California , San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, BRFII , La Jolla , CA 92093-0702 , United States
| | - Jin Zhang
- University of California , San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, BRFII , La Jolla , CA 92093-0702 , United States
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Sabbir MG, Fernyhough P. Muscarinic receptor antagonists activate ERK-CREB signaling to augment neurite outgrowth of adult sensory neurons. Neuropharmacology 2018; 143:268-281. [PMID: 30248305 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Revised: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
A major cellular effector activated by G protein coupled receptors is extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). The ERK signaling cascade regulates a variety of cellular processes including growth and proliferation. Both G protein and β-arrestin-mediated signaling lead to ERK activation by phosphorylation through different kinases. Recently, we have shown muscarinic acetylcholine type 1 receptor (M1R) antagonists, muscarinic toxin 7 (MT7) and pirenzepine, elevated neurite outgrowth and protected from small and large fiber neuropathy in adult sensory neurons in various animal models. Thus, we tested the novel hypothesis that muscarinic antagonists could drive neurite outgrowth through altered M1R-ERK signaling. We have used two dimensional isoelectric focusing/SDS-PAGE combined with analysis using multiple phospho-epitope specific antibodies to study ERK1/2 phosphorylation and activation of its downstream nuclear effector cyclic response element binding protein (CREB). Activated CREB is known to exhibit neuroprotective and growth promoting effects. One hour of treatment with MT7 and pirenzepine activated ERK through M1R and induced a significant increase in levels of pCREB(S133) in cultured sensory neurons. Further, pharmacological blockade or siRNA based knockdown of ERK abolished the MT7 and pirenzepine mediated neuritogenic effect. In addition, we have shown drug-induced alterations of charged protein fractions that may possess additional post-translationally modified forms of ERK and CREB. For the first time we show that long-term treatment, e.g. 1 h, with muscarinic antagonists selective or specific for M1R can activate a biased β-arrestin dependent ERK-CREB signal cascade. Our study gives novel insight into muscarinic antagonist-mediated modulation of M1R-ERK-CREB signaling which could be exploited for therapy in neuropathic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Golam Sabbir
- Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB, R2H 2A6, Canada.
| | - Paul Fernyhough
- Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB, R2H 2A6, Canada; Dept of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada.
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Abstract
Resonance Energy Transfer (RET)-based technologies are used to report protein-protein interactions in living cells. Among them, Bioluminescence-initiated RET (BRET) provides excellent sensitivity but the low light intensity intrinsic to the bioluminescent process hampers its use for the localization of protein complexes at the sub-cellular level. Herein we have characterized the methodological conditions required to reliably perform single-cell BRET imaging using an extremely bright luciferase, Nanoluciferase (Nluc). With this, we achieved an unprecedented performance in the field of protein-protein interaction imaging in terms of temporal and spatial resolution, duration of signal stability, signal sensitivity and dynamic range. As proof-of-principle, an Nluc-containing BRET-based sensor of ERK activity enabled the detection of subtle, transient and localized variations in ERK activity in neuronal dendritic spines, induced by the activation of endogenous synaptic NMDA receptors. This development will improve our comprehension of both the spatio-temporal dynamics of protein-protein interactions and the activation patterns of specific signaling pathways.
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Ayoub MA, Trebaux J, Vallaghe J, Charrier-Savournin F, Al-Hosaini K, Gonzalez Moya A, Pin JP, Pfleger KDG, Trinquet E. Homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence-based assay to monitor extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling in a high-throughput format. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2014; 5:94. [PMID: 25002860 PMCID: PMC4066300 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2014.00094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Akli Ayoub
- Molecular Endocrinology and Pharmacology, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Khaled Al-Hosaini
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, CNRS UMR5203, INSERM U661, Institute of Functional Genomics, Universities Montpellier 1 & 2, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Jean-Philippe Pin
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, CNRS UMR5203, INSERM U661, Institute of Functional Genomics, Universities Montpellier 1 & 2, Montpellier, France
| | - Kevin D. G. Pfleger
- Molecular Endocrinology and Pharmacology, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
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Oldach L, Zhang J. Genetically encoded fluorescent biosensors for live-cell visualization of protein phosphorylation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 21:186-97. [PMID: 24485761 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2013.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2013] [Revised: 11/22/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Fluorescence-based, genetically encodable biosensors are widely used tools for real-time analysis of biological processes. Over the last few decades, the number of available genetically encodable biosensors and the types of processes they can monitor have increased rapidly. Here, we aim to introduce the reader to general principles and practices in biosensor development and highlight ways in which biosensors can be used to illuminate outstanding questions of biological function. Specifically, we focus on sensors developed for monitoring kinase activity and use them to illustrate some common considerations for biosensor design. We describe several uses to which kinase and second-messenger biosensors have been put, and conclude with considerations for the use of biosensors once they are developed. Overall, as fluorescence-based biosensors continue to diversify and improve, we expect them to continue to be widely used as reliable and fruitful tools for gaining deeper insights into cellular and organismal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel Oldach
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 307 Hunterian Building, 725 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 307 Hunterian Building, 725 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 307 Hunterian Building, 725 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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Jaeger WC, Armstrong SP, Hill SJ, Pfleger KDG. Biophysical Detection of Diversity and Bias in GPCR Function. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2014; 5:26. [PMID: 24634666 PMCID: PMC3943086 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2014.00026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2014] [Accepted: 02/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Werner C. Jaeger
- Molecular Endocrinology and Pharmacology, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Stephen P. Armstrong
- Molecular Endocrinology and Pharmacology, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Stephen J. Hill
- Cell Signalling Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Queen’s Medical Centre, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham, UK
| | - Kevin D. G. Pfleger
- Molecular Endocrinology and Pharmacology, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- Dimerix Bioscience Pty Ltd, Perth, WA, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kevin D. G. Pfleger, Molecular Endocrinology and Pharmacology, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, QEII Medical Centre, QQ Block, 6 Verdun Street, Nedlands, Perth, WA 6009, Australia e-mail:
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