Molecular cloning of the helodermin and exendin-4 cDNAs in the lizard. Relationship to vasoactive intestinal polypeptide/pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide and glucagon-like peptide 1 and evidence against the existence of mammalian homologues

Modulation of Kex2p Cleavage Site for In Vitro Processing of Recombinant Proteins Produced by Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Kex2 protease (Kex2p) is a membrane-bound serine protease responsible for the proteolytic maturation of various secretory proteins by cleaving after dibasic residues in the late Golgi network. In this study, we present an application of Kex2p as an alternative endoprotease for the in vitro processing of recombinant fusion proteins produced by the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The proteins were expressed with a fusion partner connected by a Kex2p cleavage sequence for enhanced expression and easy purification. To avoid in vivo processing of fusion proteins by Kex2p during secretion and to guarantee efficient removal of the fusion partners by in vitro Kex2p processing, P1', P2', P4, and P3 sites of Kex2p cleavage sites were elaborately manipulated. The general use of Kex2p in recombinant protein production was confirmed using several recombinant proteins.

Variation in the Evolution and Sequences of Proglucagon and the Receptors for Proglucagon-Derived Peptides in Mammals

The mammalian proglucagon gene (Gcg) encodes three glucagon like sequences, glucagon, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and glucagon-like peptide-2 that are of similar length and share sequence similarity, with these hormones having cell surface receptors, glucagon receptor (Gcgr), GLP-1 receptor (Glp1r), and GLP-2 receptor (Glp2r), respectively. Gcgr, Glp1r, and Glp2r are all class B1 G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Despite their sequence and structural similarity, analyses of sequences from rodents have found differences in patterns of sequence conservation and evolution. To determine whether these were rodent-specific traits or general features of these genes in mammals I analyzed coding and protein sequences for proglucagon and the receptors for proglucagon-derived peptides from the genomes of 168 mammalian species. Single copy genes for each gene were found in almost all genomes. In addition to glucagon sequences within Hystricognath rodents (e.g., guinea pig), glucagon sequences from a few other groups (e.g., pangolins and some bats) as well as changes in the proteolytic processing of GLP-1 in some bats are suggested to have functional effects. GLP-2 sequences display increased variability but accepted few substitutions that are predicted to have functional consequences. In parallel, Glp2r sequences display the most rapid protein sequence evolution, and show greater variability in amino acids at sites involved in ligand interaction, however most were not predicted to have a functional consequence. These observations suggest that a greater diversity in biological functions for proglucagon-derived peptides might exist in mammals.

Molecular evolution of GIP and Exendin and their receptors

Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) is a product of the Gip gene and acts as an incretin hormone in mammals. Gip is most closely related to the proglucagon (Gcg) and Exendin genes and diverged from these very early in vertebrate evolution. In mammals, GIP acts through its specific receptor, encoded by the Gipr gene, which belongs to a subfamily of 7-transmembrane G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) genes that also includes those for the proglucagon-derived peptides (Gcgr, Glp1r, and Glp2r), and the receptor for Exendin (Grlr). Gip, Gipr, Exendin, and Grlr genes are found in species from most vertebrate classes. While most species that have a Gip gene also have a Gipr gene, two classes of vertebrates, cartilaginous fish and birds, retain conserved Gip genes but lack Gipr genes. This raises the possibility the GIP signals through other receptors in some vertebrates. Exendin genes and the gene for its receptor, Grlr, are also found in diverse vertebrates, with the notable exception of mammals. Both GIP and Exendin likely have important roles in vertebrate physiology, but their roles are either dispensable or can be replaced by other hormones.

Evolution of receptors for peptides similar to glucagon

The genes encoding the peptide precursors for glucagon (GCG), glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP), and ortholog of exendin belong to the same family as shown by sequence similarity. The peptides similar to glucagon encoded by these genes signal through a closely related subfamily of G-protein coupled receptors. A total of five types of genes for receptors for these peptides have been identified, three for the products of GCG (GCGR, GLP1R, and GLP2R) and one each for the products of GIP (GIPR) and the ortholog of exendin (Grlr). Phylogenetic and genomic neighborhood analyses clearly show that these genes originated very early in vertebrate evolution and all were present in the common ancestor of tetrapods and bony fish. Despite their ancient origins, some of these genes are dispensable, with the Glp1r, Gipr, and Grlr being lost on the lineages leading to bony fish, birds, and mammals, respectively. The loss of the genes for these receptors may have been driving forces in the evolution of new functions for these peptides similar to glucagon.

Systemic Allergic Reaction to the GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Exenatide

Objective: To report a case of systemic hypersensitivity to the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist exenatide used in diabetes care to provide significant information within the context of postmarketing safety surveillance of this new drug class. Case Summary: We report on a 52-year-old male with insufficiently controlled diabetes. GLP-1 agonist treatment was indicated and the patient was started on 5 to 10 µg exenatide (Byetta) twice daily, which had to be stopped after 1 month due to intolerable nausea. One year later, an attempt with 0.6 to 1.8 mg liraglutide (Victoza) once daily was well tolerated but lacked efficacy after a few months. Finally, the patient was started on 2 mg exenatide (Bydureon) once weekly. Concomitant treatment included metformine 1000 mg twice daily and candesartan/hydrochlorothiazide (Blopress Plus) 16/12.5 mg once daily. A few hours after the second injection, local urticaria and disseminated pruritus evolved and after the third injection pruritus, urticaria, and shortness of breath developed, which resolved to antihistamines and corticosteroids. Intradermal tests were positive for Byetta (1:1000) and Bydureon (1:100) (both exenatide), while Victoza (liraglutide) was negative (1:10). Specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) to the drugs was not available for testing. Discussion: An objective causality assessment revealed that the adverse effect to exenatide (Bydureon) was probable (Naranjo probability scale: score of 8). Consistency was established through positive skin tests and the biological explanation that the administration of GLP-1 receptor agonists has been associated with antibody formation. Conclusion: Considering emerging use of GLP-1 receptor agonists, systemic hypersensitivity should be recognized as a risk in clinical practice.

A fusion protein derived from plants holds promising potential as a new oral therapy for type 2 diabetes

The incretin hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is recognized as a promising candidate for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D), with one of its mimetics, exenatide (synthetic exendin-4) having already been licensed for clinical use. We seek to further improve the therapeutic efficacy of exendin-4 (Ex-4) using innovative fusion protein technology. Here, we report the production in plants a fusion protein containing Ex-4 coupled with human transferrin (Ex-4-Tf) and its characterization. We demonstrated that plant-made Ex-4-Tf retained the activity of both proteins. In particular, the fusion protein stimulated insulin release from pancreatic β-cells, promoted β-cell proliferation, stimulated differentiation of pancreatic precursor cells into insulin-producing cells, retained the ability to internalize into human intestinal cells and resisted stomach acid and proteolytic enzymes. Importantly, oral administration of partially purified Ex-4-Tf significantly improved glucose tolerance, whereas commercial Ex-4 administered by the same oral route failed to show any significant improvement in glucose tolerance in mice. Furthermore, intraperitoneal (IP) injection of Ex-4-Tf showed a beneficial effect in mice similar to IP-injected Ex-4. We also showed that plants provide a robust system for the expression of Ex-4-Tf, producing up to 37 μg prEx-4-Tf/g fresh leaf weight in transgenic tobacco and 137 μg prEx-4-Tf/g freshweight in transiently transformed leaves of N. benthamiana. These results indicate that Ex-4-Tf holds substantial promise as a new oral therapy for type 2 diabetes. The production of prEx-4-Tf in plants may offer a convenient and cost-effective method to deliver the antidiabetic medicine in partially processed plant food products.

The role of gastrointestinal hormones in hepatic lipid metabolism

Hepatocellular accumulation of free fatty acids (FFAs) in the form of triglycerides constitutes the metabolic basis for the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Recent data demonstrate that excess FFA hepatocyte storage is likely to lead to lipotoxicity and hepatocyte apoptosis. Hence, FFA-mediated hepatocyte injury is a key contributor to the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, obesity, type 2 diabetes, essential hypertension, and other common medical problems together comprise metabolic syndrome. Evidence suggests that peptide hormones from the L cells of the distal small intestine, which comprise the core of the enteroendocrine system (EES), play two key roles, serving either as incretins, or as mediators of appetite and satiety in the central nervous system. Recent data related to glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and other known L-cell hormones have accumulated due to the increasing frequency of bariatric surgery, which increase delivery of bile salts to the hindgut. Bile acids are a key stimulus for the TGR5 receptor of the L cells. Enhanced bile-salt flow and subsequent EES stimulation may be central to elimination of hepatic steatosis following bariatric surgery. Although GLP-1 is a clinically relevant pharmacological analogue that drives pancreatic β-cell insulin output, GLP-1 analogues also have independent benefits via their effects on hepatocellular FFA metabolism. The authors also discuss recent data regarding the role of the major peptides released by the EES, which promote satiety and modulate energy homeostasis and utilization, as well as those that control fat absorption and intestinal permeability. Taken together, elucidating novel functions for EES-related peptides and pharmacologic development of peptide analogues offer potential far-ranging treatment for obesity-related human disease.

Discovery of a novel glucagon-like peptide (GCGL) and its receptor (GCGLR) in chickens: evidence for the existence of GCGL and GCGLR genes in nonmammalian vertebrates

Glucagon (GCG), glucagon-related peptides, and their receptors have been reported to play important roles including the regulation of glucose homeostasis, gastrointestinal activity, and food intake in vertebrates. In this study, we identified genes encoding a novel glucagon-like peptide (named GCGL) and its receptor (GCGLR) from adult chicken brain using RACE and/or RT-PCR. GCGL was predicted to encode a peptide of 29 amino acids (cGCGL(1-29)), which shares high amino acid sequence identity with mammalian and chicken GCG (62-66%). GCGLR is a receptor of 430 amino acids and shares relatively high amino acid sequence identity (53-55%) with the vertebrate GCG receptor (GCGR). Using a pGL3-CRE-luciferase reporter system, we demonstrated that synthetic cGCGL(1-29), but not its structurally related peptides, i.e. exendin-4 and GCG, could potently activate GCGLR (EC(50): 0.10 nm) expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells, indicating that GCGLR can function as a GCGL-specific receptor. RT-PCR assay revealed that GCGL expression is mainly restricted to several tissues including various brain regions, spinal cord, and testes, whereas GCGLR mRNA is widely expressed in adult chicken tissues with abundant expression noted in the pituitary, spinal cord, and various brain regions. Using synteny analysis, GCGL and GCGLR genes were also identified in the genomes of fugu, tetraodon, tilapia, medaka, coelacanth, and Xenopus tropicalis. As a whole, the discovery of GCGL and GCGLR genes in chickens and other nonmammalian vertebrates clearly indicates a previously unidentified role of GCGL-GCGLR in nonmammalian vertebrates and provides important clues to the evolutionary history of GCG and GCGL genes in vertebrates.

Additive feeding inhibitory and aversive effects of naltrexone and exendin-4 combinations

Objective

One developing strategy for obesity treatment has been to use combinations of differently acting pharmacotherapies to improve weight loss with fewer adverse effects. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the combination of naltrexone, an opioid antagonist acting on the reward system, and exendin-4, a glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonist, acting on satiety signaling, would produce larger reductions in food intake than either alone in rats. Because the anorectic potencies of both compounds have been associated with nausea and malaise, the influence of these drug combinations on the acquisition of a conditioned taste aversion (CTA) was also determined.

Methods

In Experiment 1, the acute anorectic effects of naltrexone (0.32–3.2 mg/kg; IP) and exendin-4 (1–10 µg/kg; IP) were assessed alone or in combination. Combinational doses were further investigated by the repeated daily administration of 1 mg/kg naltrexone + 3.2 µg/kg exendin-4 for 4 days. In Experiment 2, both compounds alone or in combination were used as unconditioned stimuli in a series of CTA tests.

Results

Naltrexone and exendin-4, alone or in combination, suppressed food intake in a dose dependent fashion, and the interaction on food intake between naltrexone and exendin-4 was additive. In the CTA paradigm, naltrexone (1 mg/Kg) alone did not support acquisition, whereas a CTA was evident with doses of Ex-4 (1 or 3.2 µg/Kg). Combinations of naltrexone and exendin-4 also resulted in a more rapid and robust acquisition of a CTA.

Conclusion

Given that the Nal and Ex-4 combination produces additive effects on not only food intake reduction but also food aversion learning, this specific drug combination does not have the benefit of minimizing the adverse effects associated with each individual drug. These data suggest that it is necessary to evaluate both the positive and adverse effects at early stages of combinational drug development.

Origin and convergent evolution of exendin genes

Exendins are secretin hormone-like peptides that are components of the toxins from two venomous lizards, Heloderma suspectum (Gila monster) and Heloderma horridium (Mexican bearded lizard). Exendins-1 and -2 are vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)-like, both in sequence and function, while exendins-3 and -4 are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)-like. The evolutionary origin of these peptides, and the genes that encode them, has been unclear. Recently, genes orthologous to exendin have been identified in reptiles, birds and amphibians. Analysis of the orthologous sequences demonstrates that the Heloderma exendins diversified by gene duplication from a common exendin ancestor on the Heloderma lineage after divergence from other reptiles, including the anole lizard and Burmese python. In addition, the exendin toxin peptide sequences, but not their pro or signal peptides, have evolved very rapidly on the Heloderma lineage, likely as they adapted to their new function as toxins. Exendins-1 and -2 not only evolved rapidly but their sequences have evolved convergently upon that of VIP, resulting in a doubling of its identity with VIP, while exendins-3 and -4 have retained an ancestral property of being more GLP-1-like sequences. These results suggest that the ancestral role of exendin, which is potentially still retained in some species, had greater similarity with proglucagon-derived peptides or GIP.

Incretin hormones and the expanding families of glucagon-like sequences and their receptors

Peptide hormones encoded by the proglucagon (Gcg) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (Gip) genes are evolutionarily related glucagon-like sequences and act through a subfamily of G-protein-coupled receptors. A better understanding of the evolutionary history of these hormones and receptors should yield insight into their biological functions. The availability of a large number of near-complete vertebrate genome sequences is a powerful resource to address questions concerning the evolution of sequences; here, we utilize these resources to examine the evolution of glucagon-like sequences and their receptors. These studies led to the discovery of novel genes for a glucagon receptor-like receptor (Grlr) and a glucagon-like sequence (exendin) in vertebrates. Both exendin and GRLR have ancient origins, early in vertebrate evolution, but have been lost on the ancestral lineage leading to extant mammals. We also show that exendin and GRLR are both expressed in the brain of the chicken and Xenopus tropicals, results that suggest that the products of these genes function in this tissue. The lack of exendin or Grlr genes in mammals suggests that other genes may have acquired the functions of exendin and Grlr during mammalian evolution.

Mast cell chymase reduces the toxicity of Gila monster venom, scorpion venom, and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide in mice

Mast cell degranulation is important in the pathogenesis of anaphylaxis and allergic disorders. Many animal venoms contain components that can induce mast cell degranulation, and this has been thought to contribute to the pathology and mortality caused by envenomation. However, we recently reported evidence that mast cells can enhance the resistance of mice to the venoms of certain snakes and that mouse mast cell-derived carboxypeptidase A3 (CPA3) can contribute to this effect. Here, we investigated whether mast cells can enhance resistance to the venom of the Gila monster, a toxic component of that venom (helodermin), and the structurally similar mammalian peptide, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP). Using 2 types of mast cell-deficient mice, as well as mice selectively lacking CPA3 activity or the chymase mouse mast cell protease-4 (MCPT4), we found that mast cells and MCPT4, which can degrade helodermin, can enhance host resistance to the toxicity of Gila monster venom. Mast cells and MCPT4 also can limit the toxicity associated with high concentrations of VIP and can reduce the morbidity and mortality induced by venoms from 2 species of scorpions. Our findings support the notion that mast cells can enhance innate defense by degradation of diverse animal toxins and that release of MCPT4, in addition to CPA3, can contribute to this mast cell function.

Comparative effects of the long-acting GLP-1 receptor ligands, liraglutide and exendin-4, on food intake and body weight suppression in rats

The glucagon-like-peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists, liraglutide (Victoza) and the synthetic product of exendin-4 (Byetta), are approved for type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) treatment and may be efficacious in obesity treatment as well, in part, due to the drugs' resistance to enzymatic degradation and prolonged half-life relative to endogenous GLP-1. To address the need to directly compare the food intake- and body weight-suppressive effects of these two GLP-1R ligands, acute and chronic dosing experiments were performed. Once-daily (q.d.) exendin-4 (0, 0.33, 1.5, and 3.0 µg/kg) and liraglutide (0, 50, 100, and 300 µg/kg, q.d.) both reduced the chow intake in nonobese rats in a dose-dependent fashion following either intraperitoneal (IP) or subcutaneous (SC) administration, whereas only liraglutide reduced 24 and 48 h body weight in nonobese, chow-maintained rats. Chow intake and body weight suppression by liraglutide were of greater magnitude and shorter latency following IP compared to SC delivery, whereas for exendin-4, the magnitude of intake-suppression was similar for IP and SC administration. The effects of chronic delivery (7 consecutive days; IP) of liraglutide (25 and 50 µg/kg; q.d.) and exendin-4 (3 µg/kg; q.d. and twice-daily (b.i.d.)) on food intake and body weight were also examined in diet-induced obese (DIO) rats. Liraglutide (50 µg/kg q.d.) and exendin-4 (3 µg/kg b.i.d.) were comparable in suppressing overall high fat/sucrose diet (HFS; 60% kcal from fat) intake. Both drugs regimens yielded marked weight loss over the 7-day period. The weight loss effect of liraglutide was achieved in the first 2 days and remained stable for the duration of the experiment; weight loss with exendin-4 appeared more linear over the 7-day period. In conclusion, administration of the GLP-1R ligands, exendin-4 (b.i.d.) and liraglutide (q.d.), lead to comparable and pronounced suppression of food intake and body weight in DIO rats, suggesting a potential role for these drugs as a clinical tool for obesity treatment.

Application of novel peptide (Pp1) improving the half-life of exendin-4 in vivo

AIMS

The multiple physiological characterizations of exendin-4 make it as a promising drug candidate for the therapy of type 2 diabetes. Although the longer biological half-life offered the exendin-4 with excellent therapeutic potentials for the clinical utility of type 2 diabetes than glucagon-like peptide-1, the exendin-4 still did not free from the inconveniently frequent injections. Therefore, there are increasing requirements for the long-acting exendin-4.

METHODS

Pp1 regard as a novel exendin-4 protecting peptide, which are predicted to have the ability of increasing the stabilization of exendin-4 in vivo. Protecting peptide is able to form stable complex by non-covalent interaction with human exendin-4.

RESULTS

In this study, the stability of the exendin-4/Pp1 complex was investigated, and the physiological functions of it were analyzed. Results indicated that exendin-4/Pp1 complex remarkably raised the stabilization of exendin-4 in vivo; it also showed better glucose tolerance and higher HbA(1c) reduction than exendin-4 which was utilized chronically in rodents.

CONCLUSION

Based upon these results, it is suggested that an exendin-4/Pp1 complex might be utilized as a potent anti-diabetic drug in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Neuropeptide Receptors: Novel Targets for HIV/AIDS Therapeutics

The vasoactive intestinal peptide/pituitary adenylyl cyclase-activating polypepetide (VPAC) receptors are important for many physiologic functions, including glucose homeostasis, neuroprotection, memory, gut function, modulation of the immune system and circadian function. In addition, VPAC receptors have been shown to function in vitro to modulate the infection of HIV by a signal transduction pathway that appears to regulate viral integration. In this article, the affects of VPAC stimulation on HIV infection will be reviewed and approaches for the development of HIV/AIDS therapeutics that target these receptors will be described. Novel HIV/AIDS therapeutics are urgently required to stem the continued spread of this disease, particularly in underdeveloped countries. Drug design to inhibit signaling through VPAC1 and stimulate signaling through VPAC2 could lead to alternative therapies for the treatment and/or prevention of HIV/AIDS.

Species-specific actions of incretin: from the evolutionary perspective

Two modes of incretin-based therapy, incretin mimetics (ie, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists) and incretin enhancers (ie, inhibitors of dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV)), have recently been introduced into the clinical use. From the viewpoint of evolutionary endocrinology of GLP-1 and their receptors, the incretin action of GLP-1 seems to be relatively recent. Exendin-3 and exendin-4 are paralogs of GLP-1 from the lizards, and the synthetic exendin-4, exenatide, is a paralog of GLP-1. It has recently been indicated that GLP-1 and its receptor are expressed in the taste buds of the tongue, suggesting their possible function in the taste sensing signal pathway. In order to elucidate unknown functions of GLP-1 and its agonists and enhancers, ie, other than incretin actions in humans, it is possibly useful to consider GLP-1 from the viewpoint of integrated systems biology and evolutionary endocrinology.

Dose combinations of exendin-4 and salmon calcitonin produce additive and synergistic reductions in food intake in nonhuman primates

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and amylin mediate the feedback control of eating by seemingly separate, but overlapping mechanisms. This study examined the effects of combined doses of the GLP-1 agonist, exendin-4 (Ex-4), and the amylin analog, salmon calcitonin (sCT), on food intake and meal patterns in adult male rhesus monkeys. Monkeys received intramuscular injections of Ex-4 (0, 0.1, 0.32, or 0.56 microg/kg), sCT (0, 0.1, or 0.32 microg/kg), or combinations thereof before a 6-h daily access to food. Dose combinations produced reductions in food intake that were significantly greater than those produced by the individual doses. Surface plots of the hourly intake indicated a synergistic interaction at lower doses of Ex-4 and sCT during the first 4 h of feeding and additive effects at hours 5 and 6. Meal pattern analysis revealed the combinational doses reduced average meal size and meal frequency by additive interactions, whereas infra-additive effects were apparent at lower doses for first meal size. Combinational doses were further characterized by administration of repeated daily injections of 0.56 microg/kg Ex-4 + 0.32 microg/kg sCT for 5 days. This resulted in sustained reductions in daily food intake (>70% from saline baseline) for 5 days with residual reductions ( approximately 48% from saline baseline) persisting on day 1 following the injections. In contrast, when pair-fed an identical amount of daily food, there was a compensatory food intake increase on day 1 following the pair-feeding ( approximately 132% of saline baseline). Such data suggest Ex-4 and sCT interact in an overall additive fashion to reduce food intake and further the understanding of how GLP-1 and amylin agonist combinations influence feeding behavior.

Proteomic and Genomic Studies on Lizard Venoms in the Last Decade

Traditionally man has looked to nature to provide cures for diseases. This approach still exists today in the form of ‘bio-prospecting’ for therapeutically-active compounds in venoms. For example, the venoms of many reptiles offer a spectacular laboratory of bioactive molecules, including peptides and proteins. In the last 10–15 years, there have been a number of major proteomic and genomic research breakthroughs on lizard venoms. In this current review, the key findings from these proteomic and genomic studies will be critically discussed and suggestions will be offered for future focused investigations. It is our intention that this article will not only provide a comprehensive picture of the state of current knowledge of the components of lizard venoms, but also engender awareness in readers of the need to protect and conserve such uniquely precious natural resources for several reasons, including the potential benefit of humankind.

Evolution of genes for incretin hormones and their receptors

The incretin hormones glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) are essential components in the regulation of blood glucose levels in mammals. These two incretins are produced by evolutionarily related genes and these hormones show similarity in sequence as both are glucagon-like sequences. Genes for these hormones have been identified in a number of diverse vertebrate species indicating that they originated prior to the earliest divergences of vertebrate species. However, analysis of functional and sequence data suggest that each of these hormones acquired incretin activity independently, and only since the divergence of tetrapods from fish. Not only are the hormones related, but so are their receptors. Like the hormones, the incretin action of the receptors is not a product of a shared common ancestral history, as the receptors for GLP-1 and GIP are not most closely related. Further study of the physiological functions of GLP-1 and GIP in additional vertebrates is required to better understand the origin of incretin action.

PKA-dependent activation of the vascular smooth muscle isoform of KATP channels by vasoactive intestinal polypeptide and its effect on relaxation of the mesenteric resistance artery

Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) is a potent vasodilator and has been successfully used to alleviate hypertension. Consistently, disruption of VIP gene in mice leads to hypertension. However, its downstream targets in the vascular regulation are still not well demonstrated. To test the hypothesis that the vascular smooth muscle isoform of KATP channels is a downstream target of the VIP signaling, we performed the studies on the Kir6.1/SUR2B channel expressed in HEK293 cells. We found that the channel was strongly activated by VIP. Through endogenous VIP receptors, the channel activation was reversible and dependent on VIP concentrations with the midpoint-activation concentration approximately 10 nM. The channel activation was voltage-independent and could be blocked by KATP channel blocker glibenclamide. In cell-attached patches, VIP augmented the channel open-state probability with modest suppression of the single channel conductance. The VIP-induced Kir6.1/SUR2B channel activation was blocked by PKA inhibitor RP-cAMP. Forskolin, an adenylyl cyclase activator, activated the channel similarly as VIP. The effect of VIP was further evident in the native tissues. In acutely dissociated mesenteric vascular smooth myocytes, VIP activated the KATP currents in a similar manner as in HEK293 cells. In endothelium-free mesenteric artery rings, VIP produced concentration-dependent vasorelaxation that was attenuated by glibenclamide. These results therefore indicate that the vascular isoform (Kir6.1/SUR2B) of KATP channels is a target of VIP. The channel activation relies on the PKA pathway and produces mesenteric arterial relaxation.

Regulation of feeding behavior by pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) in vertebrates

The hypothalamic region of the brain in vertebrates is a center that plays an important role in feeding regulation. Many kinds of hypothalamic neuropeptides or peripheral transmitters, such as orexin, neuropeptide Y, Agouti-related peptide, melanin-concentrating hormone, proopiomelanocortin-derived peptides, galanin, galanin-like peptide, ghrelin, corticotropin releasing hormone, cholecystokinin, cocaine amphetamine-related transcript peptides and leptin, have been implicated in the regulation of feeding behavior, psychomotor activity and energy homeostasis in rodents. Recent studies have also examined the effects of these neuropeptides or factors on food intake in non-mammalian vertebrates, especially chick and goldfish, and the role of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) in feeding behavior, locomotor activity or psychomotor activity in vertebrates. This article gives an overview of the regulation of feeding behavior and related physiology by PACAP and VIP in vertebrates in order to clarify the appetite-regulating system mediated by the two peptides.

HIV-1 integration is inhibited by stimulation of the VPAC2 neuroendocrine receptor

Successful HIV-1 infection requires a number of specific stages leading to integration of the provirus. We previously suggested that members of the VPAC neuroendocrine receptor family may play a role in HIV-1 infection. We now show that stimulation of the VPAC2 receptor with specific agonists provides strong resistance to HIV-1 infection. Daily stimulation of VPAC2, but not VPAC1 or PAC1, resulted in up to 90% inhibition of X4 or R5 productive infections in either cell lines or PBMCs. VPAC2 agonist stimulation had no effect on cell surface co-receptors, the rate of apoptotic cells, or HIV-1 entry or reverse transcription of viral RNA. However, we provide evidence that VPAC2-specific agonists inhibit HIV-1 infection through an inhibitory effect on the ability of the HIV-1 cDNA to integrate into the host DNA. These data reveal that VPAC2 agonists are appropriate candidates for further study as possible treatments aimed at the amelioration of HIV/AIDS.

Molecular characterization and gene expression of the pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) in the lizard brain

The pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is considered a pleiotropic neuropeptide in vertebrate physiology. The nucleotide sequence, the expression and the distribution of PACAP were determined in the brain of the lizard Podarcis sicula. RT-PCR showed that the brain of this reptile synthesizes an mRNA coding for PACAP. By performing in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry techniques, a wide distribution of PACAP and its mRNA in neurons, nervous fibers and other cells was found. Phylogenetic sequence analysis indicates that lizard PACAP is highly conserved, resembling the vertebrate PACAP. Our data demonstrate that PACAP is not only highly preserved during vertebrate evolution but also suggest that PACAP could be implicated in a wide number of functions in the physiology of the reptile brain.

Evolution of the vertebrate glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) gene

The glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) gene is believed to have originated from a gene duplication event very early in vertebrate evolution that also produced the proglucagon gene, yet so far GIP has only been described within mammals. Here we report the identification of GIP genes in chicken, frogs, and zebrafish. The chicken and frog genes are organized in a similar fashion to mammalian GIP genes and contain 6 exons and 5 introns in homologous locations. These genes can also potentially be proteolytically processed in identical patterns as observed in the mammalian sequences that would yield a GIP hormone that is only one amino shorter than the mammalian sequences due to the removal of an extra basic residue by carboxypeptidase E. The zebrafish GIP gene and precursor protein is shorter than other vertebrate GIP genes and is missing exon 5. The predicted zebrafish GIP hormone is also shorter, being only 31 amino acids in length. The zebrafish GIP hormone is similar in length to the proglucagon-derived peptide hormones, peptides encoded from the gene most closely related to GIP. We suggest that the structure of zebrafish GIP is more similar to the ancestral gene, and that tetrapod GIP has been extended. The mammalian GIP hormone has also undergone a period of rapid sequence evolution early in mammalian evolution. The discovery of a conserved GIP in diverse vertebrate suggests that it has an essential role in physiology in diverse vertebrates, although it may have only recently evolved a role as an incretin hormone.

Using evolutionary information and ancestral sequences to understand the sequence-function relationship in GLP-1 agonists

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an incretin hormone with therapeutic potential for type 2 diabetes. A variety of GLP-1 sequences are known from amphibian species, and some of these have been tested here and found to be able to bind and activate the human GLP-1 receptor. While little difference was observed for the in vitro potency for the human GLP-1 receptor, larger differences were found in the enzymatic stability of these peptides. Two peptides showed increased enzymatic stability, and they group together phylogenetically, though they originate from Amphibia and Reptilia. We have used ancestral sequence reconstruction to analyze the evolution of these GLP-1 molecules, including the synthesis of new peptides. We find that the increased stability could not be observed in the resurrected peptides from the common ancestor of frogs, even though they maintain the ability to activate the human GLP-1 receptor. Another method, using residue mapping on evolutionary branches yielded peptides that had maintained potency towards the receptor and also showed increased stability. This represents a new approach using evolutionary data in protein engineering.

Relationship between anorexigenic action of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) and that of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) in the goldfish, Carassius auratus

Our recent research has indicated that intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) suppresses food intake and locomotor activity in the goldfish. However, the anorexigenic mechanism of PACAP has not yet been clarified. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the anorexigenic action of PACAP and that of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which is implicated in the regulation of energy homeostasis as a powerful anorexigenic peptide in the goldfish brain. We first examined feeding-induced changes in the expression of CRH mRNA, and the effect of ICV administration of PACAP on the expression of CRH mRNA in the goldfish brain. Semiquantitative analysis revealed that the expression of CRH mRNA was significantly increased by excessive feeding for 7 days. ICV administration of PACAP at a dose sufficient to suppress food intake induced a significant increase in the expression of CRH mRNA. We also examined the effect of alpha-helical CRH(9-41), a CRH antagonist, on the anorexigenic action of PACAP in the goldfish. The inhibitory effect of PACAP was completely suppressed by treatment with alpha-helical CRH(9-41). We finally investigated the effect of ICV-administered CRH on locomotor activity in the goldfish. CRH at a dose sufficient to suppress food intake induced a significant increase in locomotor activity, unlike ICV-injected PACAP. These results suggest that, in the goldfish, the anorexigenic action of PACAP is related to the CRH neuronal pathway, but that the modulation of locomotor activity by PACAP is independent of modulation by CRH.

Lymphocytic infiltration and immune activation in metallothionein promoter-exendin-4 (MT-Exendin) transgenic mice

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) exhibits considerable potential for the treatment of type 2 diabetes because of its effects on stimulation of insulin secretion and the inhibition of gastric emptying, appetite, and glucagon secretion. However, native GLP-1 undergoes rapid enzymatic inactivation, prompting development of long-acting degradation-resistant GLP-1 receptor agonists such as exendin-4 (Ex-4). To study the consequences of sustained exposure to Ex-4, we generated metallothionein promoter-exendin-4 (MT-Exendin) mice that continuously express a proexendin-4 transgene in multiple murine tissues. We now report that MT-Exendin mice develop extensive tissue lymphocytic infiltration with increased numbers of CD4(+) and CD8a(+) cells in the liver and/or kidney and increased numbers of B220(+) cells present in the pancreas and liver. MT-Exendin mice generate antibodies directed against Ex-4, exendin NH(2)-terminal peptide (ENTP), and proexendin-4 as well as antibodies that cross-react with native GLP-1. Furthermore, lymphocytes isolated from MT-Exendin mice proliferate in response to proexendin-4 but not after exposure to Ex-4 or ENTP. These findings demonstrate that expression of a proexendin-4 transgene may be associated with activation of humoral and cellular immune responses in mice.

Anorexigenic action of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) in the goldfish: Feeding-induced changes in the expression of mRNAs for PACAP and its receptors in the brain, and locomotor response to central injection

Our recent research has indicated that intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) suppresses food intake in the goldfish. We therefore examined feeding- and fasting-induced changes in the expression of mRNAs for PACAP and its receptors in the goldfish brain, and the effect of ICV administration of synthetic PACAP on locomotor activity in the goldfish. Semiquantitative analysis revealed that the expression of mRNAs for PACAP and the PAC1 receptor was significantly increased by excessive feeding (daily food supply at >or=5% of the body weight [BW]) for 7 days. ICV administration of PACAP at 20 pmol/g BW induced a significant decrease in locomotor activity during the 60-min post-treatment observation period. These results suggest that PACAP may have an anorexigenic action via hypomotility in goldfish.

Inhibitory effects of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) on food intake in the goldfish, Carassius auratus

Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) has a similar structure to that of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and both the polypeptides belong to the same molecular group, the secretin-glucagon superfamily. PACAP and VIP have possible potency as hypothalamic factors mediating the release of pituitary hormones in the fish pituitary. However, the roles of PACAP and VIP in the central nervous systems of fish have not yet been made clear. Recently, it was reported that PACAP and/or VIP are involved in the feeding behavior of the mouse and chick. Therefore, we investigated the effects of intracerebroventricular (ICV) and intraperitoneal (IP) administration of synthetic PACAP and VIP on food intake in the goldfish, Carassius auratus. Cumulative food intake was significantly decreased by ICV injection of PACAP (11 or 22 pmol/g body weight) or VIP (11 or 22 pmol/g) during a 60-min observation period after treatment. IP administration of PACAP (44 or 88 pmol/g) or VIP (22 or 44 pmol/g) induced a significant decrease in food intake during a 60-min observation period after treatment. These results suggest that PACAP and VIP may be involved as feeding regulators in goldfish.

Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP)-like immunoreactivity in the brain of a teleost, Uranoscopus japonicus: immunohistochemical relationship between PACAP and adenohypophysial hormones

The neuropeptide pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) could play a role in stimulating pituitary hormone release in fish brain. In this study, we used immunochemical techniques to examine the histological and quantitative distribution of PACAP in the central nervous system (CNS) of a teleost, the stargazer, Uranoscopus japonicus. In addition, high performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) analysis was performed to characterize the form of PACAP present, while the relationship between PACAP and adenohypophysial hormones was also determined immunohistochemically. PACAP-like immunoreactive (LI) neuronal cell bodies and fibers were found not only in the hypothalamo-pituitary region but also in the midbrain and hindbrain regions. PACAP-LI fibers were identified in the neurohypophysis in close proximity to pituitary cells containing immunoreactive hormones such as somatolactin, the N-terminal peptide of proopiomelanocortin, and N-acetyl endorphin. The concentration of immunoreactive PACAP in whole brain tissue was approximately 300 pmol/g wet weight. The average concentrations of immunoreactive PACAP in regions of the telencephalon, diencephalon, tectum, cerebellum, and rhombencephalon were 217.53, 510.26, 83.30, 148.64, and 364.62 pmol/g, respectively. In reverse-phase HPLC experiments, the predominant form of immunoreactive PACAP eluted closely with synthetic stargazer PACAP38, while PACAP27-like immunoreactivity was negligible. These results suggest that PACAP38 is the predominant PACAP form in the stargazer CNS, and that PACAP acts not only as a hypophysiotropic factor for adenohypophysial hormone release but also as a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator in the CNS.

Gastrointestinal hormones and food intake

Despite dramatic fluctuations in calorie intake, animals maintain a very stable body weight. The reason is that energy intake and expenditure are precisely matched. Long-term regulation of energy balance is dependent on the coordination and interpretation of signals such as those given by insulin and leptin indicating sufficient long-term energy stores as well as short-term, meal-related signals such as those given by cholecystokinin (CCK). Within the last 30 years, our knowledge of short-term signals has increased dramatically. Throughout the cephalo-caudal axis of the gastrointestinal system, discrete enteroendocrine cells respond to both mechanical and chemical stimulation. Meal-associated hormone release is dependent on the concentration and composition of the nutrients ingested. Released signals are transmitted neurally through vagal afferents or humorally as circulating ligands for specific receptor populations in the periphery and central nervous system. These signals are interpreted by the CNS and manifested as a behavioral modification of feeding. This review will present past and recent literature in support of gut hormones and their roles as mediators of satiety. Evidence from pharmacologic and physiologic studies involving both humans and rodents will be presented, along with a short section outlining the knowledge gained through the use of murine knockout models. Last, the contribution of satiety hormones as likely mediators of the effectiveness seen following obesity surgery will be reviewed. Although traditionally thought of as short-term, meal-related signals, enhanced, chronic hormone secretion and signaling resulting from gut reconstruction as seen with gastric bypass surgery most likely contributes to the superior efficacy of surgery as a treatment for obesity.

Unmasking venom gland transcriptomes in reptile venoms

While structural studies of reptile venom toxins can be achieved using lyophilized venom samples, until now the cloning of precursor cDNAs required sacrifice of the specimen for dissection of the venom glands. Here we describe a simple and rapid technique that unmasks venom protein mRNAs present in lyophilized venom samples. To illustrate the technique we have RT-PCR-amplified a range of venom protein transcripts from cDNA libraries derived from the venoms of a hemotoxic snake, the Chinese copperhead (Deinagkistrodon acutus), a neurotoxic snake, the black mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis), and a venomous lizard, the Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum). These include a metalloproteinase and phospholipase A2 from D. acutus, a potassium channel blocker, dendrotoxin K, from D. polylepis, and exendin-4 from H. suspectum. These findings imply that the apparent absence and/or lability of mRNA in complex biological matrices is not always real and paves the way for accelerated acquisition of molecular genetic data on venom toxins for scientific and potential therapeutic purposes without sacrifice of endangered herpetofauna.

A newly developed enzyme-immunoassay for measuring the tissue contents of PACAP in fish

We have developed a novel and easy enzyme-immunoassay (EIA) for pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP). We used it to determine immunoreactive PACAP levels in the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral tissues of two fishes, a teleost (the stargazer) and an elasmobranch (a stingray). An antiserum was raised in a white rabbit immunized with a conjugate of synthetic stargazer PACAP27 plus keyhole limpet hemocyanin. The EIA system used an antiserum/biotin-labeled PACAP/avidin/biotin-conjugated enzyme complex, and a double antibody method was used to precipitate the immune complexes. We call the system the avidin-biotin complex detectable EIA (ABCDEIA) for PACAP. ABCDEIA with biotin-labeled PACAP27 detected only PACAP27, recognizing neither the longer forms of PACAP nor any other peptides. PACAPs with 27, 38, and 44 residues cross-reacted in another ABCDEIA with biotin-labeled PACAP38 or PACAP44. Whole brains of both fishes contained much higher levels of PACAP, 6-30 times as high as the levels in the mammalian brain, but unexpectedly, no immunoreactive PACAP27 was found in any CNS or peripheral tissue in either fish. The gastrointestinal tracts of fish also contained lower, but significant amounts of PACAP.

Ancient duplications of the human proglucagon gene

The human proglucagon gene (GCG) is encoded within a finished 576-kb DNA sequence generated by the Human Genome Project. GCG is flanked by 18 kb and 65 kb of DNA, 5' and 3', respectively, that do not encode genes. The genomic sequence that includes GCG was found to have a long history of gene duplication events. Some members of the glucagon-like family of genes, GCG on chromosome 2 and GIP on chromosome 17, may be products of ancient genome duplications on the early vertebrate lineage. A large genomic tandem duplication event that included DPP4-like and GCG genes occurred before the amphibian-mammal divergence, but one of the duplicated copies of GCG has been lost on the human lineage. Recently, a processed pseudogene of the X-chromosome-linked gene TIMM8A was inserted downstream of GCG. Some ancient duplicates of GCG may retain physiological functions in other vertebrates.

A novel neurotrophic property of glucagon-like peptide 1: a promoter of nerve growth factor-mediated differentiation in PC12 cells

The insulinotropic hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (7-36)-amide (GLP-1) has potent effects on glucose-dependent insulin secretion, insulin gene expression, and pancreatic islet cell formation and is presently in clinical trials as a therapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus. We report on the effects of GLP-1 and two of its long-acting analogs, exendin-4 and exendin-4 WOT, on neuronal proliferation and differentiation, and on the metabolism of two neuronal proteins in the rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cell line, which has been shown to express the GLP-1 receptor. We observed that GLP-1 and exendin-4 induced neurite outgrowth in a manner similar to nerve growth factor (NGF), which was reversed by coincubation with the selective GLP-1 receptor antagonist exendin (9-39). Furthermore, exendin-4 could promote NGF-initiated differentiation and may rescue degenerating cells after NGF-mediated withdrawal. These effects were induced in the absence of cellular dysfunction and toxicity as quantitatively measured by 3-(4,5-cimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide and lactate dehydrogenase assays, respectively. Our findings suggest that such peptides may be used in reversing or halting the neurodegenerative process observed in neurodegenerative diseases, such as the peripheral neuropathy associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Due to its novel twin action, GLP-1 and exendin-4 have therapeutic potential for the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy and these central nervous system disorders.

Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide and its receptors in amphibians

Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP), a novel peptide of the secretin/glucagon/vasoactive intestinal polypeptide superfamily, has been initially characterized in mammals in 1989 and, only 2 years later, its counterpart has been isolated in amphibians. A number of studies conducted in the frog Rana ridibunda have demonstrated that PACAP is widely distributed in the central nervous system (particularly in the hypothalamus and the median eminence) and in peripheral organs including the adrenal gland. The cDNAs encoding the PACAP precursor and 3 types of PACAP receptors have been cloned in amphibians and their distribution has been determined by in situ hybridization histochemistry. Ontogenetic studies have revealed that PACAP is expressed early in the brain of tadpoles, soon after hatching. In the frog Rana ridibunda, PACAP exerts a large array of biological effects in the brain, pituitary, adrenal gland, and ovary, suggesting that, in amphibians as in mammals, PACAP may act as neurotrophic factor, a neurotransmitter and a neurohormone.

The origin and function of the pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP)/glucagon superfamily

The pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP)/ glucagon superfamily includes nine hormones in humans that are related by structure, distribution (especially the brain and gut), function (often by activation of cAMP), and receptors (a subset of seven-transmembrane receptors). The nine hormones include glucagon, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), GLP-2, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), GH-releasing hormone (GRF), peptide histidine-methionine (PHM), PACAP, secretin, and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP). The origin of the ancestral superfamily members is at least as old as the invertebrates; the most ancient and tightly conserved members are PACAP and glucagon. Evidence to date suggests the superfamily began with a gene or exon duplication and then continued to diverge with some gene duplications in vertebrates. The function of PACAP is considered in detail because it is newly (1989) discovered; it is tightly conserved (96% over 700 million years); and it is probably the ancestral molecule. The diverse functions of PACAP include regulation of proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis in some cell populations. In addition, PACAP regulates metabolism and the cardiovascular, endocrine, and immune systems, although the physiological event(s) that coordinates PACAP responses remains to be identified.

Sustained expression of exendin-4 does not perturb glucose homeostasis, beta-cell mass, or food intake in metallothionein-preproexendin transgenic mice

Activation of glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 receptor signaling promotes glucose lowering via multiple mechanisms, including regulation of food intake, glucose-dependent insulin secretion, and stimulation of beta-cell mass. As GLP-1 exhibits a short t(12) in vivo, the biological consequences of prolonged GLP-1 receptor signaling remains unclear. To address this question, we have now generated metallothionein promoter-preproexendin (MT-Ex) transgenic mice. MT-Ex mice process preproexendin correctly, as is made evident by detection of circulating plasma exendin-4 immunoreactivity using high pressure liquid chromatography and an exendin-4-specific radioimmunoassay. Despite elevated levels of exendin-4, fasting plasma glucose and glucose clearance following oral and intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests are normal in MT-Ex mice. Induction of transgene expression significantly reduced glycemic excursion during both oral and intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests (p < 0.05) and increased levels of glucose-stimulated insulin following oral glucose administration (p < 0.05). Despite evidence that exendin-4 may induce beta-cell proliferation, beta-cell mass and islet histology were normal in MT-Ex mice. MT-Ex mice exhibited no differences in basal food intake or body weight; however, induction of exendin-4 expression was associated with reduced short term food ingestion (p < 0.05). In contrast, short term water intake was significantly reduced in the absence of zinc in fluid-restricted MT-Ex mice (p < 0.05). These findings illustrate that sustained elevation of circulating exendin-4 is not invariably associated with changes in glucose homeostasis, increased beta-cell mass, or reduction in food intake in mice in vivo.

Evidence that the lizard helospectin peptides are O-glycosylated

Six forms of helospectin (a vasoactive intestinal peptide analogue) were purified from the venom of the Heloderma horridum lizard. Their identification was performed by combining sequencing by automated Edman degradation and electrospray mass spectrometry analysis on the complete peptides and their tryptic fragments. The products resulting from the action of an O-glycosidase were also analysed. Two forms were identified as the previously named Hs1 and Hs2 of 38 and 37 amino-acid residues, respectively. Two forms corresponded to Hs1 and Hs2 O-glycosylated by a N-acetylhexosamine-hexose motif attached to the Ser32 residue. Two other forms were not completely characterized but might correspond to the O-glycosylated forms bearing a phosphate or a sulfate group. The glycosylation did not affect the capacity of the helospectins to recognize and to activate the human and the rat VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors.