Galpha12 differentially regulates Na+-H+ exchanger isoforms

Regulation of ion transport from within ion transit pathways

All cells must control the activities of their ion channels and transporters to maintain physiologically appropriate gradients of solutes and ions. The complexity of underlying regulatory mechanisms is staggering, as exemplified by insulin regulation of transporter trafficking. Simpler strategies occur in single-cell organisms, where subsets of transporters act as solute sensors to regulate expression of their active homologues. This Viewpoint highlights still simpler mechanisms by which Na transporters use their own transport sites as sensors for regulation. The underlying principle is inherent to Na/K pumps in which aspartate phosphorylation and dephosphorylation are controlled by occupation of transport sites for Na and K, respectively. By this same principle, Na binding to transport sites can control intrinsic inactivation reactions that are in turn modified by extrinsic signaling factors. Cardiac Na/Ca exchangers (NCX1s) and Na/K pumps are the best examples. Inactivation of NCX1 occurs when cytoplasmic Na sites are fully occupied and is regulated by lipid signaling. Inactivation of cardiac Na/K pumps occurs when cytoplasmic Na-binding sites are not fully occupied, and inactivation is in turn regulated by Ca signaling. Potentially, Na/H exchangers (NHEs) and epithelial Na channels (ENaCs) are regulated similarly. Extracellular protons and cytoplasmic Na ions oppose secondary activation of NHEs by cytoplasmic protons. ENaCs undergo inactivation as cytoplasmic Na rises, and small diffusible molecules of an unidentified nature are likely involved. Multiple other ion channels have recently been shown to be regulated by transiting ions, thereby underscoring that ion permeation and channel gating need not be independent processes.

The SLC9A-C Mammalian Na+/H+ Exchanger Family: Molecules, Mechanisms, and Physiology

Na⁺/H⁺ exchangers play pivotal roles in the control of cell and tissue pH by mediating the electroneutral exchange of Na⁺ and H⁺ across cellular membranes. They belong to an ancient family of highly evolutionarily conserved proteins, and they play essential physiological roles in all phyla. In this review, we focus on the mammalian Na⁺/H⁺ exchangers (NHEs), the solute carrier (SLC) 9 family. This family of electroneutral transporters constitutes three branches: SLC9A, -B, and -C. Within these, each isoform exhibits distinct tissue expression profiles, regulation, and physiological roles. Some of these transporters are highly studied, with hundreds of original articles, and some are still only rudimentarily understood. In this review, we present and discuss the pioneering original work as well as the current state-of-the-art research on mammalian NHEs. We aim to provide the reader with a comprehensive view of core knowledge and recent insights into each family member, from gene organization over protein structure and regulation to physiological and pathophysiological roles. Particular attention is given to the integrated physiology of NHEs in the main organ systems. We provide several novel analyses and useful overviews, and we pinpoint main remaining enigmas, which we hope will inspire novel research on these highly versatile proteins.

International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology. CV. Somatostatin Receptors: Structure, Function, Ligands, and New Nomenclature

Somatostatin, also known as somatotropin-release inhibitory factor, is a cyclopeptide that exerts potent inhibitory actions on hormone secretion and neuronal excitability. Its physiologic functions are mediated by five G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) called somatostatin receptor (SST)1-5. These five receptors share common structural features and signaling mechanisms but differ in their cellular and subcellular localization and mode of regulation. SST₂ and SST₅ receptors have evolved as primary targets for pharmacological treatment of pituitary adenomas and neuroendocrine tumors. In addition, SST₂ is a prototypical GPCR for the development of peptide-based radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. This review article summarizes findings published in the last 25 years on the physiology, pharmacology, and clinical applications related to SSTs. We also discuss potential future developments and propose a new nomenclature.

Therapeutic uses of somatostatin and its analogues: Current view and potential applications

Somatostatin is an endogeneous cyclic tetradecapeptide hormone that exerts multiple biological activities via five ubiquitously distributed receptor subtypes. Classified as a broad inhibitory neuropeptide, somatostatin has anti-secretory, anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenic effects. The clinical use of native somatostatin is limited by a very short half-life (1 to 3min) and the broad spectrum of biological responses. Thus stable, receptor-selective agonists have been developed. The majority of these somatostatin therapeutic agonists bind strongly to two of the five receptor subtypes, although recently an agonist of wider affinity has been introduced. Somatostatin agonists are established in the treatment of acromegaly with recently approved indications in the therapy of neuroendocrine tumours. Potential therapeutic uses for somatostatin analogues include diabetic complications like retinopathy, nephropathy and obesity, due to inhibition of IGF-1, VEGF together with insulin secretion and effects upon the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Wider uses in anti-neoplastic therapy may also be considered and recent studies have further revealed anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive effects. This review provides a comprehensive, current view of the biological functions of somatostatin and potential therapeutic uses, informed by the wide range of pharmacological advances reported since the last published review in 2004 by P. Dasgupta. The pharmacology of somatostatin receptors is explained, the current uses of somatostatin agonists are discussed, and the potential future of therapeutic applications is explored.

RhoA Kinase (Rock) and p90 Ribosomal S6 Kinase (p90Rsk) phosphorylation of the sodium hydrogen exchanger (NHE1) is required for lysophosphatidic acid-induced transport, cytoskeletal organization and migration

The sodium hydrogen exchanger isoform one (NHE1) plays a critical role coordinating asymmetric events at the leading edge of migrating cells and is regulated by a number of phosphorylation events influencing both the ion transport and cytoskeletal anchoring required for directed migration. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) activation of RhoA kinase (Rock) and the Ras-ERK growth factor pathway induces cytoskeletal reorganization, activates NHE1 and induces an increase in cell motility. We report that both Rock I and II stoichiometrically phosphorylate NHE1 at threonine 653 in vitro using mass spectrometry and reconstituted kinase assays. In fibroblasts expressing NHE1 alanine mutants for either Rock (T653A) or ribosomal S6 kinase (Rsk; S703A) we show that each site is partially responsible for the LPA-induced increase in transport activity while NHE1 phosphorylation by either Rock or Rsk at their respective site is sufficient for LPA stimulated stress fiber formation and migration. Furthermore, mutation of either T653 or S703 leads to a higher basal pH level and a significantly higher proliferation rate. Our results identify the direct phosphorylation of NHE1 by Rock and suggest that both RhoA and Ras pathways mediate NHE1-dependent ion transport and migration in fibroblasts.

Gα12 structural determinants of Hsp90 interaction are necessary for serum response element-mediated transcriptional activation

The G12/13 class of heterotrimeric G proteins, comprising the α-subunits Gα12 and Gα13, regulates multiple aspects of cellular behavior, including proliferation and cytoskeletal rearrangements. Although guanine nucleotide exchange factors for the monomeric G protein Rho (RhoGEFs) are well characterized as effectors of this G protein class, a variety of other downstream targets has been reported. To identify Gα12 determinants that mediate specific protein interactions, we used a structural and evolutionary comparison between the G12/13, Gs, Gi, and Gq classes to identify "class-distinctive" residues in Gα12 and Gα13. Mutation of these residues in Gα12 to their deduced ancestral forms revealed a subset necessary for activation of serum response element (SRE)-mediated transcription, a G12/13-stimulated pathway implicated in cell proliferative signaling. Unexpectedly, this subset of Gα12 mutants showed impaired binding to heat-shock protein 90 (Hsp90) while retaining binding to RhoGEFs. Corresponding mutants of Gα13 exhibited robust SRE activation, suggesting a Gα12-specific mechanism, and inhibition of Hsp90 by geldanamycin or small interfering RNA-mediated lowering of Hsp90 levels resulted in greater downregulation of Gα12 than Gα13 signaling in SRE activation experiments. Furthermore, the Drosophila G12/13 homolog Concertina was unable to signal to SRE in mammalian cells, and Gα12:Concertina chimeras revealed Gα12-specific determinants of SRE activation within the switch regions and a C-terminal region. These findings identify Gα12 determinants of SRE activation, implicate Gα12:Hsp90 interaction in this signaling mechanism, and illuminate structural features that arose during evolution of Gα12 and Gα13 to allow bifurcated mechanisms of signaling to a common cell proliferative pathway.

Somatostatin receptors: from signaling to clinical practice

Somatostatin is a peptide with a potent and broad antisecretory action, which makes it an invaluable drug target for the pharmacological management of pituitary adenomas and neuroendocrine tumors. Somatostatin receptors (SSTR1, 2A and B, 3, 4 and 5) belong to the G protein coupled receptor family and have a wide expression pattern in both normal tissues and solid tumors. Investigating the function of each SSTR in several tumor types has provided a wealth of information about the common but also distinct signaling cascades that suppress tumor cell proliferation, survival and angiogenesis. This provided the rationale for developing multireceptor-targeted somatostatin analogs and combination therapies with signaling-targeted agents such as inhibitors of the mammalian (or mechanistic) target of rapamycin (mTOR). The ability of SSTR to internalize and the development of rabiolabeled somatostatin analogs have improved the diagnosis and treatment of neuroendocrine tumors.

Inside out: targeting NHE1 as an intracellular and extracellular regulator of cancer progression

The sodium hydrogen exchanger isoform one is a critical regulator of intracellular pH, serves as an anchor for the formation of cytoplasmic signaling complexes, and modulates cytoskeletal organization. There is a growing interest in the potential for sodium hydrogen exchanger isoform one as a therapeutic target against cancer. Sodium hydrogen exchanger isoform one transport drives formation of membrane protrusions essential for cell migration and contributes to the establishment of a tumor microenvironment that leads to the rearrangement of the extracellular matrix further supporting tumor progression. Here, we focus on the potential impact that an inexpensive, $100 genome would have in identifying prospective therapeutic targets to treat tumors based upon changes in gene expression and variation of sodium hydrogen exchanger isoform one regulators. In particular, we will focus on the ezrin, radixin, moesin family proteins, calcineurin B homologous proteins, Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling, and phosphoinositide signaling as they relate to the regulation of sodium hydrogen exchanger isoform one in cancer progression.

GPR56 in cancer progression: current status and future perspective

Cell adhesion is a critical process during cancer progression and is mediated by transmembrane receptors. Recently, GPR56, a member of the adhesion family of G protein-coupled receptors, was established as a new type of adhesion receptor that binds to extracellular matrix proteins and shown to play inhibitory roles in melanoma progression. Further studies revealed that the extracellular portion and the seven transmembrane domains of GPR56 function antagonistically to regulate VEGF production and angiogenesis via a signaling pathway mediated by PKCα. Tissue transglutaminase was identified as the first extracellular matrix protein that binds to GPR56. It is a crosslinking enzyme in the extracellular matrix but is also expressed in the cytosol. Tissue transglutaminase plays pleiotropic roles in cancer progression. Whether and how it might mediate GPR56-regulated cancer progression awaits further investigation.

Involvement of aquaporin in thromboxane A2 receptor-mediated, G 12/13/RhoA/NHE-sensitive cell swelling in 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells

The physiological role of the thromboxane A(2) (TXA(2)) receptor expressed on glial cells remains unclear. We previously reported that 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells pretreated with dibutyryl cyclic AMP (dbcAMP) became swollen in response to U46619, a TXA(2) analogue. In the present study, we examined the detailed mechanisms of TXA(2) receptor-mediated cell swelling in 1321N1 cells. The cell swelling caused by U46619 was suppressed by expression of p115-RGS, an inhibitory peptide of G alpha(12/13) pathway and C3 toxin, an inhibitory protein for RhoA. The swelling was also inhibited by treatment with Y27632, a Rho kinase inhibitor and 5-(ethyl-N-isopropyl)amiloride (EIPA), a Na(+)/H(+)-exchanger inhibitor. Furthermore, cell swelling was suppressed by the pretreatment with aquaporin inhibitors mercury chloride or phloretin in a concentration-dependent manner, suggesting that aquaporins are involved in U46619-induced 1321N1 cell swelling. In fact, U46619 caused [(3)H]H(2)O influx into the cells, which was inhibited by p115-RGS, C3 toxin, EIPA, mercury chloride and phloretin. This is the first report that the TXA(2) receptor mediates water influx through aquaporins in astrocytoma cells via TXA(2) receptor-mediated activation of G alpha(12/13), Rho A, Rho kinase and Na(+)/H(+)-exchanger.

Selective agonism in somatostatin receptor signaling and regulation

The five somatostatin receptor subtypes, named sst1-sst5, activate both distinct and common signaling pathways and exhibit different patterns of receptor regulation. Until recently it was believed that once a particular somatostatin receptor was activated by an agonist, all the down-stream signaling and regulatory effects characteristic of that receptor subtype in that cellular environment would be triggered. Thus, differences in the actions of somatostatin analogs between tissues were attributed to variability in the nature and concentration of the sst receptor subtypes and effectors expressed in different targets. However, agonists have recently been shown to exhibit functional selectivity at individual sst receptors such that they can elicit a subset of that receptor's potential effects, a property known as biased agonism. This review will summarize the evidence for functionally selective somatostatin receptor agonists and discuss the implications and promise of these new findings.

Regulatory Binding Partners and Complexes of NHE3

NHE3 is the brush-border (BB) Na+/H+exchanger of small intestine, colon, and renal proximal tubule which is involved in large amounts of neutral Na+absorption. NHE3 is a highly regulated transporter, being both stimulated and inhibited by signaling that mimics the postprandial state. It also undergoes downregulation in diarrheal diseases as well as changes in renal disorders. For this regulation, NHE3 exists in large, multiprotein complexes in which it associates with at least nine other proteins. This review deals with short-term regulation of NHE3 and the identity and function of its recognized interacting partners and the multiprotein complexes in which NHE3 functions.

Cellular and molecular biology of orphan G protein-coupled receptors

The superfamily of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) is the largest and most diverse group of membrane-spanning proteins. It plays a variety of roles in pathophysiological processes by transmitting extracellular signals to cells via heterotrimeric G proteins. Completion of the human genome project revealed the presence of approximately 168 genes encoding established nonsensory GPCRs, as well as 207 genes predicted to encode novel GPCRs for which the natural ligands remained to be identified, the so-called orphan GPCRs. Eighty-six of these orphans have now been paired to novel or previously known molecules, and 121 remain to be deorphaned. A better understanding of the GPCR structures and classification; knowledge of the receptor activation mechanism, either dependent on or independent of an agonist; increased understanding of the control of GPCR-mediated signal transduction; and development of appropriate ligand screening systems may improve the probability of discovering novel ligands for the remaining orphan GPCRs.

A role for Galpha12/Galpha13 in p120ctn regulation

The catenin p120 (p120ctn) is an armadillo repeat domain protein that binds to cadherins and has been shown to facilitate strong cell-cell adhesion. We have investigated a possible link between heterotrimeric G proteins and p120ctn, and found that both Galpha12 and Galpha13 can completely and selectively abrogate the p120ctn-induced branching phenotype in different cell types. Consistent with these observations, the expression of Galpha12 or Galpha13 compensates for the reduction of Rho activity induced by p120ctn. On the other hand, p120ctn can be selectively coimmunoprecipitated with Galpha12, and the coimmunoprecipitation was favored by activation of the G protein. A specific interaction between p120ctn and Galpha12Q231L was also observed in in vitro binding experiments. In addition, p120ctn can be immunoprecipitated along with Galpha12Q231L in L cells in absence of E-cadherin. Interestingly, the expression of Galpha12Q231L increases the amount of p120ctn associated with E-cadherin. These findings demonstrate that Galpha12 and p120ctn are binding partners, and they also suggest a role for Galpha12 in regulating p120ctn activity and its interaction with cadherins. We propose that the Galpha12-p120ctn interaction acts as a molecular switch, which regulates cadherin-mediated cell-cell adhesion.

κ Opioid Receptor Interacts with Na+/H+-exchanger Regulatory Factor-1/Ezrin-Radixin-Moesin-binding Phosphoprotein-50 (NHERF-1/EBP50) to Stimulate Na+/H+ Exchange Independent of Gi/Go Proteins

We previously showed that Na(+)/H(+)-exchanger regulatory factor-1/Ezrin-radixin-moesin-binding phosphoprotein-50 (NHERF-1/EBP50) co-immunoprecipitated with the human kappa opioid receptor (hKOR) and that its overexpression blocked the kappa agonist U50,488H-induced hKOR down-regulation by enhancing recycling. Here, we show that glutathione S-transferase (GST)-hKOR C-tail interacted with purified NHERF-1/EBP50, whereas GST or GST-C-tails of micro or delta opioid receptors did not. GST-hKOR C-tail, but not GST, bound HA-NHERF-1/EBP50 transfected into Chinese hamster ovary cells and endogenous NHERF-1/EBP50 in opossum kidney proximal tubule epithelial cells (OK cells). The PDZ domain I, but not II, of NHERF-1/EBP50 was involved in the interaction. Association of NHERF-1/EBP50 with hKOR C-tail enhanced oligomerization of NHERF-1/EBP50. NHERF-1/EBP50 was previously shown to regulate Na(+)/H(+)-exchanger 3 (NHE3) activities in OK cells. We found stimulation of OK cells with U50,488H significantly enhanced Na(+)/H(+) exchange, which was blocked by naloxone but not by pertussis toxin pretreatment, indicating it is mediated by KORs but independent of G(i)/G(o) proteins. In OKH cells, a subclone of OK cells expressing a much lower level of NHERF-1/EBP50, U50,488H had no effect on Na(+)/H(+) exchange, although it enhanced p44/42 mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation via G(i)/G(o) proteins similar to that in OK cells. Stable transfection of NHERF-1/EBP50 into OKH cells restored the stimulatory effect of U50,488H upon Na(+)/H(+) exchange. Thus, NHERF-1/EBP50 binds directly to KOR, and this association plays an important role in accelerating Na(+)/H(+) exchange. We hypothesize that binding of the KOR to NHERF-1/EBP50 facilitates oligomerization of NHERF-1/EBP50, leading to stimulation of NHE3. This study provides the first direct evidence that a G protein-coupled receptor through association with NHERF-1/EBP-50 stimulates NHE3.

Conserved motifs in somatostatin, D2-dopamine, and alpha 2B-adrenergic receptors for inhibiting the Na-H exchanger, NHE1

Receptor subtypes within families of G protein-coupled receptors that are activated by similar ligands can regulate distinct intracellular effectors. We identified conserved motifs within intracellular domains 2 and 3 of selective subtypes of several G protein-coupled receptor families that confer coupling to the Na-H exchanger, NHE1. A T(s,p)V motif within intracellular domain 2 and a QQ(r) motif within intracellular domain 3 are shared by the somatostatin receptor subtypes SSTR1, -3, and -4, which couple to the inhibition of NHE1, but not by SSTR2 and -5, which do not signal to NHE1. Only the collective substitution of cognate SSTR2 residues with these two motifs conferred the ability of mutant SSTR2 to inhibit NHE1. Both motifs are present in D(2)-dopamine receptors, which inhibit NHE1, and in alpha(2B)-adrenergic receptors, which couple to the inhibition of NHE1, but not in alpha(2A)-adrenergic receptors, which do not regulate NHE1. These findings indicate that motifs shared by different subfamilies of G protein-coupled receptors, but not necessarily by receptor subtypes within a subfamily, can confer coupling to a common effector.

Somatostatin, acting at receptor subtype 1, inhibits Rho activity, the assembly of actin stress fibers, and cell migration

Somatostatin regulates multiple biological functions by acting through a family of five G protein-coupled receptors, somatostatin receptors (SSTRs) 1-5. Although all five receptor subtypes inhibit adenylate cyclase activity and decrease intracellular cAMP levels, specific receptor subtypes also couple to additional signaling pathways. In CCL39 fibroblasts expressing either human SSTR1 or SSTR2, we demonstrate that activation of SSTR1 (but not SSTR2) attenuated both thrombin- and integrin-stimulated Rho-GTP complex formation. The reduction in Rho-GTP formation in the presence of somatostatin was associated with decreased translocation of Rho and LIM kinase to the plasma membrane and fewer focal contacts. Activation of Rho resulted in the formation of intracellular actin stress fibers and cell migration. In CCL39-R1 cells, somatostatin treatment prevented actin stress fiber assembly and attenuated thrombin-stimulated cell migration through Transwell membranes to basal levels. To show that native SSTR1 shares the ability to inhibit Rho activation, we demonstrated that somatostatin treatment of human umbilical vein endothelial cells attenuated thrombin-stimulated Rho-GTP accumulation. These data show for the first time that a G protein-coupled receptor, SSTR1, inhibits the activation of Rho, the assembly of focal adhesions and actin stress fibers, and cell migration.

Interaction of G alpha(12) with G alpha(13) and G alpha(q) signaling pathways

The G(12) subfamily of heterotrimeric G-proteins consists of two members, G(12) and G(13). Gene-targeting studies have revealed a role for G(13) in blood vessel development. Mice lacking the alpha subunit of G(13) die around embryonic day 10 as the result of an angiogenic defect. On the other hand, the physiological role of G(12) is still unclear. To address this issue, we generated G alpha(12)-deficient mice. In contrast to the G alpha(13)-deficient mice, G alpha(12)-deficient mice are viable, fertile, and do not show apparent abnormalities. However, G alpha(12) does not seem to be entirely redundant, because in the offspring generated from G alpha(12)+/- G alpha(13)+/- intercrosses, at least one intact G alpha(12) allele is required for the survival of animals with only one G alpha(13) allele. In addition, G alpha(12) and G alpha(13) showed a difference in mediating cell migratory response to lysophosphatidic acid in embryonic fibroblast cells. Furthermore, mice lacking both G alpha(12) and G alpha(q) die in utero at about embryonic day 13. These data indicate that the G alpha(12)-mediated signaling pathway functionally interacts not only with the G alpha(13)- but also with the G alpha(q/11)-mediated signaling systems.

Galpha12 and Galpha13 negatively regulate the adhesive functions of cadherin

Cadherins function to promote adhesion between adjacent cells and play critical roles in such cellular processes as development, tissue maintenance, and tumor suppression. We previously demonstrated that heterotrimeric G proteins of the G12 subfamily comprised of Galpha12 and Galpha13 interact with the cytoplasmic domain of cadherins and cause the release of the transcriptional activator beta-catenin (Meigs, T. E., Fields, T. A., McKee, D. D., and Casey, P. J. (2001) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 98, 519-524). Because of the importance of beta-catenin in cadherin-mediated cell-cell adhesion, we examined whether G12 subfamily proteins could also regulate cadherin function. The introduction of mutationally activated G12 proteins into K562 cells expressing E-cadherin blocked cadherin-mediated cell adhesion in steady-state assays. Also, in breast cancer cells, the introduction of activated G12 proteins blocked E-cadherin function in a fast aggregation assay. Aggregation mediated by a mutant cadherin that lacks G12 binding ability was not affected by activated G12 proteins, indicating a requirement for direct G12-cadherin interaction. Furthermore, in wound-filling assays in which ectopic expression of E-cadherin inhibits cell migration, the expression of activated G12 proteins reversed the inhibition via a mechanism that was independent of G12-mediated Rho activation. These results validate the G12-cadherin interaction as a potentially important event in cell biology and suggest novel roles for G12 proteins in the regulation of cadherin-mediated developmental events and in the loss of cadherin function that is characteristic of metastatic tumor progression.

Determining cellular role of G alpha 12

Using the expression strategies described here, we have demonstrated a model system whereby the sequential signaling events involved in cell proliferation and subsequent transformation regulated by G alpha 12 can be investigated. The model system presented here can also be used to study the temporal interrelationships between small GTPases, kinases, and other signaling proteins involved in G alpha 12-signaling pathways. Further analyses using this model system and the strategies presented here should provide valuable clues in defining the signaling network regulated by G alpha 12 in stimulating cell proliferation and oncogenic transformation.

The changing face of the Na+/H+ exchanger, NHE1: structure, regulation, and cellular actions

The NHE family of ion exchangers includes six isoforms (NHE1-NHE6) that function in an electroneutral exchange of intracellular H(+) for extracellular Na(+). This review focuses on the only ubiquitously expressed isoform, NHE1, which is localized at the plasma membrane where it plays a critical role in intracellular pH (pHi) and cell volume homeostasis. All NHE isoforms share a similar topology: an N-terminus of 12 transmembrane (TM) alpha-helices that collectively function in ion exchange, and a C-terminal cytoplasmic regulatory domain that modulates transport activity by the TM domain. Extracellular signals, mediated by diverse classes of cell-surface receptors, regulate NHE1 activity through distinct signaling networks that converge to directly modify the C-terminal regulatory domain. Modifications in the C-terminus, including phosphorylation and the binding of regulatory proteins, control transport activity by altering the affinity of the TM domain for intracellular H(+). Recently, it was determined that NHE1 also functions as a membrane anchor for the actin-based cytoskeleton, independently of its role in ion translocation. Through its effects on pHi homeostasis, cell volume, and the actin cortical network, NHE1 regulates a number of cell behaviors, including adhesion, shape determination, migration, and proliferation.

Galphaq-dependent activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 4/c-Jun N-terminal kinase cascade

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) typically activate c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) through the G protein betagamma subunit (Gbetagamma), in a manner dependent on Rho family small GTPases, in mammalian cells. Here we show that JNK activation by the prototypic Gq-coupled alpha1B-adrenergic receptor is mediated by the alpha subunit of Gq (Galphaq), not by Gbetagamma, using a transient transfection system in human embryonic kidney cells. JNK activation by the alpha1B-adrenergic receptor/Galphaq was selectively mediated by mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 4 (MKK4), but not MKK7. Also, MKK4 activation by the alpha1B-adrenergic receptor/Galphaq required c-Src and Rho family small GTPases. Furthermore, activation of the alpha1B-adrenergic receptor stimulated JNK activity through Src family tyrosine kinases and Rho family small GTPases in hamster smooth muscle cells that natively express the alpha1B-adrenergic receptor. Together, these results suggest that the alpha1B-adrenergic receptor/Galphaq may up-regulate JNK activity through a MKK4 pathway dependent on c-Src and Rho family small GTPases in mammalian cells.

Identification of a prostate-specific G-protein coupled receptor in prostate cancer

Membrane receptors coupled to heterotrimeric G-proteins play an essential role in the transmission of signals from the extracellular environment to the cytoplasm of the cell. A wide variety of external stimuli, including neurotransmitters, hormones, phospholipids, photons, odorants, taste ligands, and growth factors, can activate specific members of the G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs). Besides essential functions in fully differentiated cells and tissues, GPCRs are also involved in embryogenesis, tissue regeneration, cell growth stimulation, and cell proliferation. In this study, we identified a novel prostate-specific G-protein coupled receptor that interacts with Galpha(12) in our yeast two-hybrid assays. The expression of the receptor protein is highly restricted to human prostate tissues using multiple-tissue Northern blot analysis, and tissue expression array. Furthermore, the expression of prostate-specific receptor is increased significantly in prostate tumors in comparison with the matched normal prostate tissues using PCR and Southern blot analysis, suggesting a potential role of this tissue-specific G-protein coupled receptor in prostate cancer development.

Sequential activation of heterotrimeric and monomeric G proteins mediates PLD activity in smooth muscle

The identity of G proteins mediating CCK-stimulated phospholipase D (PLD) activity was determined in intestinal smooth muscle cells. CCK-8 activated G(q/11), G(13), and G(12), and the monomeric G proteins Ras-homology protein (RhoA) and ADP ribosylation factor (ARF). Activation of RhoA, but not ARF, was mediated by G(13) and inhibited by Galpha(13) antibody. CCK-stimulated PLD activity was partly mediated by RhoA and could be inhibited to the same extent (47 +/- 2% to 53 +/- 6%) by 1) a dominant negative RhoA mutant, 2) RhoA antibody or Galpha(13) antibody, and 3) Clostridium botulinum C3 exoenzyme. PLD activity was also inhibited by ARF antibody, and the effect was additive to that of RhoA antibody or C3 exoenzyme. PLD activity was inhibited by calphostin C, bisindolylmaleimide I, and a selective protein kinase C (PKC)-alpha inhibitor; the inhibition was additive to that of ARF and RhoA antibodies and C3 exoenzyme. In contrast, activated G(12) was not coupled to RhoA or ARF, and Galpha(12) antibody augmented PLD activity. Thus agonist-stimulated PLD activity is mediated additively by G(13)-dependent RhoA and by ARF and PKC-alpha and is modulated by an inhibitory G(12)-dependent pathway.

Acylation of Galpha(13) is important for its interaction with thrombin receptor, transforming activity and actin stress fiber formation

Palmitoylation of alpha-subunits in heterotrimeric G proteins has become a research object of growing attention. Following our recent report on the acylation of the mono-palmitoylated Galpha(12) [Ponimaskin et al., FEBS Lett. 429 (1998) 370-374], we report here on the identification of three palmitoylation sites in the second member of the G(12) family, Galpha(13), and on the biological significance of fatty acids on the particular sites. Using mutants of alpha(13) in which the potentially palmitoylated cysteine residues (Cys) were replaced by serine residues, we find that Cys-14, Cys-18 and Cys-37 all serve as palmitoylation sites, and that the mutants lacking fatty acids are functionally defective. The following biological functions of Galpha(13) were found to be inhibited: coupling to the PAR1 thrombin receptor, cell transformation and actin stress fiber formation. Results from established assays for the above functions with a series of mutants, including derivatives of the constitutively active mutant Galpha(13)Q226L, revealed a graded inhibitory response on the above mentioned parameters. As a rule, it appears that palmitoylation of the N-proximal sites (e.g. Cys-14 and Cys-18) contributes more effectively to biological function than of the acylation site located more internally (Cys-37). However, the mutant with Cys-37 replaced by serine is more severely inhibited in stress fiber formation (80%) than in cell transformation (50%), pointing to the possibility of a differential involvement of the three palmitoylation sites in Galpha(13).

Investigation of the role of the carboxyl-terminal tails of the alpha and beta isoforms of the human thromboxane A(2) receptor (TP) in mediating receptor:effector coupling

We have investigated the functional coupling of alpha and beta isoforms of the human thromboxane A(2) receptor (TP) to Galpha(16) and Galpha(12) members of the G(q) and G(12) families of heterotrimeric G proteins in human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cell lines HEK.alpha10 or HEK.beta3, stably over-expressing TPalpha and TPbeta, respectively. Moreover, using HEK.TP(Delta328) cells which over-express a variant of TP truncated at the point of divergence of TPalpha and TPbeta, we investigated the requirement of the C-tail per se in mediating G protein coupling and effector activation. Both TPalpha and TPbeta couple similarly to Galpha(16) to affect increases in inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)) and mobilisation of intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)](i)) in response to the TP agonist U46619. Whilst both TP isoforms mediated [Ca(2+)](i) mobilisation in cells co-transfected with Galpha(12), neither receptor generated corresponding increases in IP(3), indicating that the Galpha(12)-mediated increases in [Ca(2+)](i) do not involve PLC activation. Verapamil, an inhibitor of voltage dependent Ca(2+) channels, reduced [Ca(2+)](i) mobilisation in TPalpha and TPbeta cells co-transfected with Galpha(12) to approximately 40% of that mobilised in its absence, whereas [8-(N,N-diethylamino)-octyl-3,4, 5-trimethoxybenzoate, hydrochloride] (TMB-8), an antagonist of intracellular Ca(2+) release, had no effect on [Ca(2+)](i) mobilisation by either receptor isoform co-transfected with Galpha(12). Despite the lack of differential coupling specificity by TPalpha and TPbeta, TP(Delta328) signalled more efficiently in the absence of a co-transfected G protein compared to the wild type receptors but, on the other hand, displayed an impaired ability to couple to co-transfected Galpha(11), Galpha(12) or Galpha(16) subunits. In studies investigating the role of the C-tail in influencing coupling to the effector adenylyl cyclase, similar to TPalpha but not TPbeta, TP(Delta328) coupled to Galpha(s), leading to increased adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP), rather than to Galpha(i). Whereas TP(Delta328) signalled more efficiently in the absence of co-transfected G protein compared to the wild type TPalpha, co-transfection of Galpha(s) did not augment cAMP generation by TP(Delta328). Hence, from these studies involving the wild type TPalpha, TPbeta and TP(Delta328), we conclude that the C-tail sequences of TP are not a major determinant of G protein coupling specificity to Galpha(11) and Galpha(16) members of the G(q) family or to Galpha(12); it may play a role in determining G(s) versus G(i) coupling and may act as a determinant of coupling efficiency.

Regulation of NHE3 activity by G protein subunits in renal brush-border membranes

NHE3 activity is regulated by phosphorylation/dephosphorylation processes and membrane recycling in intact cells. However, the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger (NHE) can also be regulated by G proteins independent of cytoplasmic second messengers, but the G protein subunits involved in this regulation are not known. Therefore, we studied G protein subunit regulation of NHE3 activity in renal brush-border membrane vesicles (BBMV) in a system devoid of cytoplasmic components and second messengers. Basal NHE3 activity was not regulated by G(s)alpha or G(i)alpha, because antibodies to these G proteins by themselves were without effect. The inhibitory effect of D(1)-like agonists on NHE3 activity was mediated, in part, by G(s)alpha, because it was partially reversed by anti-G(s)alpha antibodies. Moreover, the amount of G(s)alpha that coimmunoprecipitated with NHE3 was increased by fenoldopam in both brush-border membranes and renal proximal tubule cells. Furthermore, guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) but not guanosine 5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate), the inactive analog of GDP, increased the amount of G(s)alpha that coimmunoprecipitated with NHE3. The alpha(2)-adrenergic agonist, UK-14304 or pertussis toxin (PTX) alone had no effect on NHE3 activity, but UK-14304 and PTX treatment attenuated the D(1)-like receptor-mediated NHE3 inhibition. The ability of UK-14304 to attenuate the D(1)-like agonist effect was not due to G(i)alpha, because the attenuation was not blocked by anti-G(i)alpha antibodies or by PTX. Anti-Gbeta(common) antibodies, by themselves, slightly inhibited NHE3 activity but had little effect on D(1)-like receptor-mediated NHE3 inhibition. However, anti-Gbeta(common) antibodies reversed the effects of UK-14304 and PTX on D(1)-like agonist-mediated NHE3 inhibition. These studies provide concrete evidence of a direct regulatory role for G(s)alpha, independent of second messengers, in the D(1)-like-mediated inhibition of NHE3 activity in rat renal BBMV. In addition, beta/gamma dimers of heterotrimeric G proteins appear to have a stimulatory effect on NHE3 activity in BBMV.

Regulator of G protein signaling 1 (RGS1) markedly impairs Gi alpha signaling responses of B lymphocytes

Regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins modulate signaling through pathways that use heterotrimeric G proteins as transducing elements. RGS1 is expressed at high levels in certain B cell lines and can be induced in normal B cells by treatment with TNF-alpha. To determine the signaling pathways that RGS1 may regulate, we examined the specificity of RGS1 for various G alpha subunits and assessed its effect on chemokine signaling. G protein binding and GTPase assays revealed that RGS1 is a Gi alpha and Gq alpha GTPase-activating protein and a potential G12 alpha effector antagonist. Functional studies demonstrated that RGS1 impairs platelet activating factor-mediated increases in intracellular Ca+2, stromal-derived factor-1-induced cell migration, and the induction of downstream signaling by a constitutively active form of G12 alpha. Furthermore, germinal center B lymphocytes, which are refractory to stromal-derived factor-1-triggered migration, express high levels of RGS1. These results indicate that RGS proteins can profoundly effect the directed migration of lymphoid cells.

Functional assessment of recombinant human alpha(2)-adrenoceptor subtypes with cytosensor microphysiometry

We applied the Cytosensor Microphysiometry system to study the three human alpha(2)-adrenoceptor subtypes, alpha(2A), alpha(2B) and alpha(2C), expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, and assessed its potential in the quantitative monitoring of agonist activity. The natural full agonist, (-)-noradrenaline, was used to define agonist efficacy. The imidazole derivative dexmedetomidine was a potent full agonist of all three receptor subtypes. The imidazolines clonidine and UK 14,304 (5-bromo-N-(4, 5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-yl)-6-quinoxalinamine) appeared to be partial agonists at alpha(2B)-adrenoceptors (E(max) approximately 60% of (-)-noradrenaline) but full agonists at alpha(2A)- and alpha(2C)-adrenoceptors. The responses mediated by all three alpha(2)-adrenoceptor subtypes were partly inhibited by the sodium-hydrogen (Na(+)/H(+)) exchange inhibitor, MIA (5-(N-methyl-N-isobutyl)-amiloride). The agonist responses were totally abolished by pretreatment with pertussis toxin in cells with alpha(2A)- and alpha(2C)-adrenoceptors, and partly abolished in cells with alpha(2B)-adrenoceptors. The residual signal in alpha(2B)-cells was sensitive to the intracellular Ca(2+)chelator, BAPTA (1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N,N-tetraacetic acid acetoxymethyl ester). Cholera toxin (which acts on G(s)-proteins) had no effect on the agonist responses. The results suggest that the extracellular acidification responses mediated by all three human alpha(2)-adrenoceptor subtypes are dependent on Na(+)/H(+)exchange and G(i/o) pathways, and that alpha(2B)-adrenoceptors are capable of coupling to another, G(i/o)-independent and Ca(2+)-dependent signaling pathway.

Protein kinase D inhibits plasma membrane Na(+)/H(+) exchanger activity

The regulation of plasma membrane Na(+)/H(+) exchanger (NHE) activity by protein kinase D (PKD), a novel protein kinase C- and phorbol ester-regulated kinase, was investigated. To determine the effect of PKD on NHE activity in vivo, intracellular pH (pH(i)) measurements were made in COS-7 cells by microepifluorescence using the pH indicator cSNARF-1. Cells were transfected with empty vector (control), wild-type PKD, or its kinase-deficient mutant PKD-K618M, together with green fluorescent protein (GFP). NHE activity, as reflected by the rate of acid efflux (J(H)), was determined in single GFP-positive cells following intracellular acidification. Overexpression of wild-type PKD had no significant effect on J(H) (3. 48 +/- 0.25 vs. 3.78 +/- 0.24 mM/min in control at pH(i) 7.0). In contrast, overexpression of PKD-K618M increased J(H) (5.31 +/- 0.57 mM/min at pH(i) 7.0; P < 0.05 vs. control). Transfection with these constructs produced similar effects also in A-10 cells, indicating that native PKD may have an inhibitory effect on NHE in both cell types, which is relieved by a dominant-negative action of PKD-K618M. Exposure of COS-7 cells to phorbol ester significantly increased J(H) in control cells but failed to do so in cells overexpressing either wild-type PKD (due to inhibition by the overexpressed PKD) or PKD-K618M (because basal J(H) was already near maximal). A fusion protein containing the cytosolic regulatory domain (amino acids 637-815) of NHE1 (the ubiquitous NHE isoform) was phosphorylated in vitro by wild-type PKD, but with low stoichiometry. These data suggest that PKD inhibits NHE activity, probably through an indirect mechanism, and represents a novel pathway in the regulation of the exchanger.

A rho exchange factor mediates thrombin and Galpha(12)-induced cytoskeletal responses

Thrombin induces astrocytoma cell rounding through a Rho-dependent pathway (Majumdar, M., Seasholtz, T. M., Goldstein, D., de Lanerolle, P., and Brown, J. H. (1998) J. Biol. Chem. 273, 10099-10106). The involvement of the G(12) family of G proteins and the role of specific Rho exchange factors in transducing signals from the thrombin receptor to Rho-dependent cytoskeletal responses was examined. Microinjection of cDNAs for activated Galpha(12) or Galpha(13) induced cell rounding, and antibodies to Galpha(12) or Galpha(13) blocked the response to thrombin. In contrast, activation or inhibition of Galpha(q) function had relatively little effect. The cytoskeletal response to Galpha(12) was inhibited by microinjection of C3 exoenzyme, indicating Rho dependence. Two Rho-specific guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs), oncogenic lbc and p115, increased the percentage of rounded cells 4-5-fold, and this was inhibited by C3. Mutant GEFs lacking the Dbl homology (DH) domain required for exchange factor activity failed to induce cell rounding. However, the DH mutants of lbc and p115 were efficacious inhibitors of rounding induced by thrombin or Galpha(12). The effects of lbc were dependent on an intact pleckstrin homology domain, which may be required for appropriate targeting of the Rho-GEF. These findings identify the Galpha(12) protein family as transducers of thrombin signaling to the cytoskeleton and provide the first evidence that a Rho-GEF transduces signals between G protein-coupled receptors and Rho-mediated cytoskeletal responses.

Sodium-hydrogen exchange and platelet function

On stimulation of platelets with agonists, for example, thrombin, a rapid rise in intracellular pH is observed. This alkalinization is mediated by an increase in transport activity of the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger isoform NHE1. In addition to this Na(+)/H(+) exchange mechanism, platelets express bicarbonate/chloride exchangers, which also contribute to pH(i) homeostasis. The main functions of NHE1 in platelets include pH(i) control, volume regulation, and participation in cell signaling. The isoform NHE1 is highly sensitive toward inhibition by EIPA, Hoe694, and Hoe642. The regulation of NHE1 activity is complex and is not completely understood. It includes the MAP kinase cascade, the Ca/calmodulin system, several heterotrimeric G proteins (Galpha12, Galpha13, Galphaq, and Galphai), small G proteins (ras, cdc42, rhoA), and downstream kinases (e.g., p160ROCK). Volume challenges stimulate tyrosine phosphorylation of cytoplasmic proteins, which ultimately activate NHE1. Thrombin, thromboxane, platelet-activating factor, angiotensin II, endothelin, phorbol ester, and Ca(2+) ionophors stimulate NHE1 activity in platelets. Blockade of platelet NHE1 can inhibit platelet activation. With the development of highly specific NHE1 inhibitors, detailed investigation of the relationships between NHE1 activity and platelet activation now becomes feasible.

Differential involvement of Galpha12 and Galpha13 in receptor-mediated stress fiber formation

The ubiquitously expressed heterotrimeric guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G-proteins) G12 and G13 have been shown to activate the small GTPase Rho. Rho stimulation leads to a rapid remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton and subsequent stress fiber formation. We investigated the involvement of G12 or G13 in stress fiber formation induced through a variety of Gq/G11-coupled receptors. Using fibroblast cell lines derived from wild-type and Galphaq/Galpha11-deficient mice, we show that agonist-dependent activation of the endogenous receptors for thrombin or lysophosphatidic acid and of the heterologously expressed bradykinin B2, vasopressin V1A, endothelin ETA, and serotonin 5-HT2C receptors induced stress fiber formation in either the presence or absence of Galphaq/Galpha11. Stress fiber assembly induced through the muscarinic M1 and the metabotropic glutamate subtype 1alpha receptors was dependent on Gq/G11 proteins. The activation of the Gq/G11-coupled endothelin ETB and angiotensin AT1A receptors failed to induce stress fiber formation. Lysophosphatidic acid, B2, and 5-HT2C receptor-mediated stress fiber formation was dependent on Galpha13 and involved epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptors, whereas thrombin, ETA, and V1A receptors induced stress fiber accumulation via Galpha12 in an EGF receptor-independent manner. Our data demonstrate that many Gq/G11-coupled receptors induce stress fiber assembly in the absence of Galphaq and Galpha11 and that this involves either a Galpha12 or a Galpha13/EGF receptor-mediated pathway.

Identification of Galpha13 as one of the G-proteins that couple to human platelet thromboxane A2 receptors

Previous studies have shown that ligand or immunoaffinity chromatography can be used to purify the human platelet thromboxane A2 (TXA2) receptor-Galphaq complex. The same principle of co-elution was used to identify another G-protein associated with platelet TXA2 receptors. It was found that in addition to Galphaq, purification of TXA2 receptors by ligand (SQ31,491)-affinity chromatography resulted in the co-purification of a member of the G12 family. Using an antipeptide antibody specific for the human G13 alpha-subunit, this G-protein was identified as Galpha13. In separate experiments, it was found that the TXA2 receptor agonist U46619 stimulated [35S]guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) incorporation into G13 alpha-subunit. Further evidence for functional coupling of G13 to TXA2 receptors was provided in studies where solubilized platelet membranes were subjected to immunoaffinity chromatography using an antibody raised against native TXA2 receptor protein. It was found that U46619 induced a significant decrease in Galphaq and Galpha13 association with the receptor protein. These results indicate that both Galphaq and Galpha13 are functionally coupled to TXA2 receptors and dissociate upon agonist activation. Furthermore, this agonist effect was specifically blocked by pretreatment with the TXA2 receptor antagonist, BM13.505. Taken collectively, these data provide direct evidence that endogenous Galpha13 is a TXA2 receptor-coupled G-protein, as: 1) its alpha-subunit can be co-purified with the receptor protein using both ligand and immunoaffinity chromatography, 2) TXA2 receptor activation stimulates GTPgammaS binding to Galpha13, and 3) Galpha13 affinity for the TXA2 receptor can be modulated by agonist-receptor activation.

Cannabinoid receptor CB1 activates the Na+/H+ exchanger NHE-1 isoform via Gi-mediated mitogen activated protein kinase signaling transduction pathways

We previously showed that the cannabinoid receptor CB1 stably transfected in Chinese hamster ovary cells was constitutively active and could be inhibited by the inverse agonist SR 141716A. In the present study, we demonstrate that the cannabinoid agonist CP-55940 induced cytosol alkalinization of CHO-CB1 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner via activation of the Na+/H+ exchanger NHE-1 isoform. By contrast, the inverse agonist SR 141716A induced acidification of the cell cytosol, suggesting that the Na+/H+ exchanger NHE-1 was constitutively activated by the CB1 receptor. CB1-mediated NHE1 activation was prevented by both pertussis toxin treatment and the specific MAP kinase inhibitor PD98059. NHE-1 and p42/p44 MAPK had a similar time course of activation in response to the addition of CP-55940 to CHO-CB1 cells. These results suggest that CB1 stimulates NHE-1 by G(i/o)-mediated activation of p42/p44 MAP kinase and highlight a cellular physiological process targeted by CB1.

A novel A-kinase anchoring protein in the heart interacts with G alpha 13

A cDNA of a tentative A-kinase anchoring protein, presumably coupled with heterotrimeric GTP binding protein alpha 13 subunit (G alpha 13), was cloned from a human heart cDNA library. It was approximately 650 bases and its mRNA was expressed in the heart. Homology search of DNA sequences revealed that it was a novel cDNA with 84% homology with the partial sequence of rabbit cDNA of AKAP 120 without a stop codon. 3'-Rapid Amplification of cDNA Ends (3'-RACE) and yeast functional assay were performed to determine the 3'-end of the cDNA and ribosomal frameshifting was suggested as a translational mechanism. Here we report that a protein encoded by the cDNA may be involved in intracellular signal transduction via the G alpha 13 and PKA in hearts.

Genetic and biochemical determinants of abnormal monovalent ion transport in primary hypertension

Data obtained during the last two decades show that spontaneously hypertensive rats, an acceptable experimental model of primary human hypertension, possess increased activity of both ubiquitous and renal cell-specific isoforms of the Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) and Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter. Abnormalities of these ion transporters have been found in patients suffering from essential hypertension. Recent genetic studies demonstrate that genes encoding the beta- and gamma-subunits of ENaC, a renal cell-specific isoform of the Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter, and alpha3-, alpha1-, and beta2-subunits of the Na+-K+ pump are localized within quantitative trait loci (QTL) for elevated blood pressure as well as for enhanced heart-to-body weight ratio, proteinuria, phosphate excretion, and stroke latency. On the basis of the homology of genome maps, several other genes encoding these transporters, as well as the Na+/H+ exchanger and Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter, can be predicted in QTL related to the pathogenesis of hypertension. However, despite their location within QTL, analysis of cDNA structure did not reveal any mutation in the coding region of the above-listed transporters in primary hypertension, with the exception of G276L substitution in the alpha1-Na+-K+ pump from Dahl salt-sensitive rats and a higher occurrence of T594M mutation of beta-ENaC in the black population with essential hypertension. These results suggest that, in contrast to Mendelian forms of hypertension, the altered activity of monovalent ion transporters in primary hypertension is caused by abnormalities of systems involved in the regulation of their expression and/or function. Further analysis of QTL in F2 hybrids of normotensive and hypertensive rats and in affected sibling pairs will allow mapping of genes causing abnormalities of these regulatory pathways.

Constitutively active Galpha12, Galpha13, and Galphaq induce Rho-dependent neurite retraction through different signaling pathways

In neuronal cells, activation of a certain heterotrimeric G protein-coupled receptor causes neurite retraction and cell rounding via the small GTPase Rho. However, the specific heterotrimeric G proteins that mediate Rho-dependent neurite retraction and cell rounding have not yet been identified. Here we investigated the effects of expression of constitutively active Galpha subunits on the morphology of differentiated PC12 cells. Expression of GTPase-deficient Galpha12, Galpha13, and Galphaq, but not Galphai2, caused neurite retraction and cell rounding in differentiated PC12 cells. These morphological changes induced by Galpha12, Galpha13, and Galphaq were completely inhibited by C3 exoenzyme, which specifically ADP-ribosylates and inactivates Rho. The tyrosine kinase inhibitor tyrphostin A25 blocked the neurite retraction and cell rounding induced by Galpha13 and Galphaq. However, tyrphostin A25 failed to inhibit the Galpha12-induced neuronal morphological changes. On the other hand, inhibition of protein kinase C or elimination of extracellular Ca2+ blocked the neurite retraction and cell rounding induced by Galphaq, whereas the morphological effects of Galpha12 and Galpha13 did not require activation of protein kinase C and extracellular Ca2+. These results demonstrate that activation of Galpha12, Galpha13, and Galphaq induces Rho-dependent morphological changes in PC12 cells through different signaling pathways.

Na-H exchange acts downstream of RhoA to regulate integrin-induced cell adhesion and spreading

The ubiquitously expressed Na-H exchanger NHE1 functions in regulating intracellular pH and cell volume. NHE1 activity is stimulated by hormones, growth factors, and activation of integrin receptors. We recently determined that NHE1 activity is also stimulated by activation of the low molecular weight GTPase RhoA and that increases in NHE1 activity are necessary for RhoA-induced formation of actin stress fibers. We now show that NHE1 acts downstream of RhoA to modulate initial steps in integrin signaling for the assembly of focal adhesions. Adhesion of CCL39 fibroblasts on fibronectin was markedly delayed in the presence of the NHE inhibitor ethylisopropylamiloride. In mutant PS120 cells, derived from CCL39 fibroblasts but lacking NHE1, adhesion was also delayed but was rescued in PS120 cells stably expressing NHE1. In the absence of NHE1 activity, cell spreading was inhibited, and the accumulation of integrins, paxillin, and vinculin at focal contacts was impaired. Additionally, tyrosine phosphorylation of p125(FAK) induced by integrin clustering was also impaired. Inactivation of RhoA with C3 transferase and inhibition of the Rho-kinase p160ROCK with the pyridine derivative Y-27632 completely abolished activation of NHE1 by integrins but not by platelet-derived growth factor. These findings indicate that NHE1 acts downstream of RhoA to contribute a previously unrecognized critical signal to proximal events in integrin-induced cytoskeletal reorganization.

A cysteine-11 to serine mutant of G alpha12 impairs activation through the thrombin receptor

We have recently reported that G alpha12 is acylated with palmitic acid [Veit et al., FEBS Lett. 339 (1994) 160-164]. Here we identify cysteine 11 as the sole palmitoylation site and assess the function of G alpha12 palmitoylation after expression of wild type and acylation-deficient mutant in insect cells. Our experimental approach yielded the following results. (1) Palmitoylation of G alpha12 has no influence on the subunit interactions. (2) Palmitoylation promotes membrane binding of G alpha12 when this protein is expressed alone. Membrane attachment of the heterotrimer occurs independent of the presence of fatty acids in G alpha12. (3) Assays for agonist-stimulated binding of [35S]GTPgammaS after expression of the human thrombin receptor (PAR1) along with G alpha12 and the betagamma subunits revealed a 70% inhibition with the palmitoyl-deficient mutant.

Galpha12 and Galpha13 stimulate Rho-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase, paxillin, and p130 Crk-associated substrate

We examined whether constitutively active mutants of the Galpha proteins Galpha12 and Galpha13, which together comprise the G12 subfamily of Galpha proteins, induce Rho-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of the focal adhesion proteins p125 focal adhesion kinase, paxillin, and p130 Crk-associated substrate. We report that transient expression of the constitutively active mutants of Galpha12 or of Galpha13 in human embryonic kidney 293 cells stimulates tyrosine phosphorylation of a set of proteins of Mr of 110,000-130,000, 97,000, and 60,000-70,000. We identified p125 focal adhesion kinase, paxillin, and p130 Crk-associated substrate as prominent tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins in human embryonic kidney 293 cells expressing constitutively active Galpha12 and Galpha13. In common with the increased tyrosine phosphorylation of these proteins mediated by mitogens acting through heptahelical receptors, the Galpha12- and Galpha13-mediated increase in tyrosine phosphorylation is blocked by cytochalasin D, which specifically disrupts the actin cytoskeleton, and by the Clostridium botulinum C3 exoenzyme, which ADP-ribosylates and inactivates Rho. Our results support the hypothesis that Galpha12 and Galpha13 activate Rho and suggest that Galpha12 and Galpha13 may mediate the tyrosine phosphorylation of p125 focal adhesion kinase, paxillin, and p130 Crk-associated substrate.

The alpha-subunit of the heterotrimeric G protein G13 activates a phospholipase D isozyme by a pathway requiring Rho family GTPases

G13 belongs to the G12 family of heterotrimeric G proteins, whose effectors are poorly defined. The present study was designed to test if phospholipase D (PLD) is regulated by G13 and if Rho-type small GTPases are involved. Expression of the constitutively active Q226L mutant of the alpha-subunit of G13 in COS-7 cells stimulated the activity of a rat brain phospholipase D isozyme (rPLD1) co-expressed in the cells. Wild type Galpha13 was ineffective unless the cells were incubated with AlF4-. rPLD1 was previously shown to be activated by constitutively active V14RhoA in COS-7 cells (Park, S. K., Provost, J. J., Bae, C. D., Ho, W. T., and Exton, J. H. (1997) J. Biol. Chem. 272, 29263-29272). When the endogenous Rho proteins of the cells were inactivated by treatment with C3 exoenzyme from Clostridium botulinum, the ability of Galpha13Q226L to activate rPLD1 was greatly attenuated. Co-transfection of dominant negative N19RhoA and N17Rac-1, but not N17Cdc42Hs or N17Ras, also inhibited the activation. Expression of constitutively active Galphaq in COS-7 cells also activated rPLD1, but constitutively active forms of Galphai2 and Galphas were without effect. These findings support an effector role for PLD in G13 signaling and demonstrate a requirement for Rho GTPases in this response.

Rapid activation of sodium-proton exchange and extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase in fibroblasts by G protein-coupled 5-HT1A receptor involves distinct signalling cascades

These experiments tested the hypothesis that signalling elements involved in the activation of the extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) mediate rapid activation of sodium-proton exchange (NHE) in fibroblasts when both signals are initiated by a single G protein-coupled receptor, the 5-HT1A receptor. Similarities between the two processes were comparable concentration-response curves and time-courses, and overlapping sensitivity to some pharmacological inhibitors of tyrosine kinases (staurosporine and genistein), and phosphoinositide 3'-kinase (wortmannin and LY204002). Activation of NHE was much more sensitive to the phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase inhibitor (D609) than was ERK. Neither pathway was sensitive to manoeuvres designed to block PKC. In contrast, Src or related kinases appear to be required to activate ERK, but not NHE. Transfection of cDNA constructs encoding inactive mutant phosphoinositide 3'-kinase, Grb2, Sos, Ras, and Raf molecules were successful in attenuating ERK, but had essentially no effect upon NHE activation. Finally, PD98059, an inhibitor of mitogen activated/extracellular signal regulated kinase kinase, blocked ERK but not NHE activation. Thus, in CHO fibroblast cells, activation by the 5-HT1A receptor of ERK and NHE share a number of overlapping features. However, our studies do not support a major role for ERK, when activated by the 5-HT1A receptor, as a short-term upstream regulator of NHE activity.

Identification of a conserved switch residue responsible for selective constitutive activation of the beta2-adrenergic receptor

A cysteine-to-phenylalanine mutation of residue 116 in the third transmembrane domain of the beta2-adrenergic receptor caused selective constitutive activation of Na+/H+ exchange through a pathway not involving cAMP. This selectivity was identified by comparing binding and signaling characteristics of wild-type (WT) versus C116F mutant receptors transiently transfected into COS-1 cells. Indicating constitutive activity, ligand binding to the C116F mutant showed a 78-fold higher than WT affinity for isoproterenol and a 40-fold lower than WT affinity for ICI 118551. Although agonist-independent activation of cAMP production was not exhibited by the C116F mutant, a constitutive stimulation of the Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE1) was observed. This was identified by measuring either basal intracellular pH (pHi) or rate of pHi recovery from cellular acid load. Due to a higher rate of H+ efflux through NHE1, C116F transfectants exhibited a significantly higher pHi (7.42) than did WT transfectants (7.1). Furthermore, the rate of pHi recovery from acid load facilitated by NHE1 was 2.1-fold faster in mutant transfectants than in WT transfectants. The lower rate seen in the WT case was stimulated by epinephrine, and the higher rate seen in the mutant case was inhibited by ICI 118551. These findings, which show that a C116F mutation of the beta2-adrenergic receptor evokes selective constitutive coupling to NHE1 over cAMP, form the basis of our prediction that multiple and distinct activation states can exist in G protein-coupled receptors.

Na+/H+ exchange in vascular smooth muscle cells is controlled by GTP-binding proteins

This study examines the involvement of GTP-binding proteins (Gps) in the regulation of Na+/H+ exchange and Ca2+ influx, which are increased in vascular smooth muscle cells from spontaneously hypertensive rats. Gp activity was modulated by fluoride, GTPgammaS, GDPbetaS, and antisense oligodeoxynucleotides complementary to conserved regions of the alpha- and beta-subunits of Gps (alpha-comm and beta-comm, respectively). Beta-adrenergic-induced Gs-mediated cAMP production was used as a positive control to estimate the efficiency of these compounds. Na+/H+ exchange, measured as ethylisopropyl amiloride-sensitive 22Na influx, was activated by 5- to 6-fold by a 30-minute preincubation of cells with 10 mmol/L NaF with a K0.5 for NaF of approximately 13 mmol/L. In contrast, no activation of 45Ca influx was observed under preincubation of vascular smooth muscle cells with NaF in Ca2+-free medium, whereas at [Ca2+]o >0.5 mmol/L, simultaneous addition of 45Ca and 10 mmol/L NaF led to sharply increased isotope uptake. NaF-induced 45Ca influx did not reach saturation up to 3 mmol/L [Ca2+]o and 20 mmol/L NaF and was correlated with the formation of calcium-fluoride complexes measured by light scattering. GTPgammaS increased basal cAMP production and Na+/H+ exchange, whereas GDPbetaS decreased isoproterenol-induced cAMP production and Na+/H+ exchange. Alpha-comm reduced whereas beta-comm augmented isoproterenol-induced cAMP production by 70%. Both oligodeoxynucleotides decreased basal Na+/H+ exchange by 40% to 50%. NaF-induced Na+/H+ exchange was not sensitive to alpha-comm but was inhibited by 60% in beta-comm-loaded cells. Neither basal nor NaF-induced 45Ca uptake was affected by GTPgammaS, GDPbetaS, and the oligodeoxynucleotides. Our results show that 45Ca uptake is activated by NaF in vascular smooth muscle cells by nonspecific accumulation of calcium-fluoride complexes and is not related to modification of Gps. On the contrary, the Na+/H+ exchanger is controlled by Gps, and Gp beta-subunits are involved in [Ca2+]o-independent activation of this carrier by NaF.

Ras-dependent signaling by the GTPase-deficient mutant of Galpha12

Galpha12 and Galpha13 regulate diverse responses through the small GTPases Ras, CDC42, Rac, and Rho. Whereas they activate similar responses in many different cell types, they also activate more specific and critical signaling pathways in other cell types. In COS cells, in which both Galpha12 and Galpha13 stimulate Na+/H+ exchange, they do so by activating different signaling pathways. Here we report that the differential recruitment of specific small GTPases by Galpha12 and Galpha13 defines the molecular basis for their functional differences. We have observed that the stimulation of Na+/H+ exchange by the GTPase-deficient mutant of Galpha12 (Galpha12QL) requires a functional Ras and is independent of Rac/CDC42 and Jun kinase signaling module. By contrast, the stimulation of Na+/H+ exchange by Galpha13QL requires a functional Rac/CDC42 and the Jun kinase signaling module. Our results also indicate that Galpha12QL-Ras stimulation of Na+/H+ exchange involves a D609-sensitive phospholipase and protein kinase C. These studies, for the first time, describe a novel Galpha12-specific signaling pathway involving Ras, phosphatidylcholine hydrolysis, and protein kinase C in the regulation of Na+/H+ exchange.