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Papaioannou VE, Behringer RR. Analysis of Postnatal Mutant Phenotypes in Mice. Cold Spring Harb Protoc 2024; 2024:107976. [PMID: 37932096 DOI: 10.1101/pdb.over107976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Viable homozygous mutant newborn mice may show effects of a mutation at any time during their development by exhibiting abnormal structure, function, or lethality. This overview guides the analysis of postnatal mice through gross anatomical assessment and the detection of visible phenotypes prior to weaning such as altered growth patterns, neurological problems, or abnormalities in movement or coordination. Advice on marking pups for identification purposes and providing adequate nutrition in the event of eating problems is given. After weaning and at the onset of puberty, different phenotypes may become manifest, including compromised growth and vigor and reproductive problems in males and/or females. Assessing infertility in each sex is addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia E Papaioannou
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Richard R Behringer
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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Stewart CA, Stewart MD, Wang Y, Mullen RD, Kircher BK, Liang R, Liu Y, Behringer RR. Chronic Estrus Disrupts Uterine Gland Development and Homeostasis. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6520865. [PMID: 35134138 PMCID: PMC8852258 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Female mice homozygous for an engineered Gnrhr E90K mutation have reduced gonadotropin-releasing hormone signaling, leading to infertility. Their ovaries have numerous antral follicles but no corpora lutea, indicating a block to ovulation. These mutants have high levels of circulating estradiol and low progesterone, indicating a state of persistent estrus. This mouse model provided a unique opportunity to examine the lack of cyclic levels of ovarian hormones on uterine gland biology. Although uterine gland development appeared similar to controls during prepubertal development, it was compromised during adolescence in the mutants. By age 20 weeks, uterine gland development was comparable to controls, but pathologies, including cribriform glandular structures, were observed. Induction of ovulations by periodic human chorionic gonadotropin treatment did not rescue postpubertal uterine gland development. Interestingly, progesterone receptor knockout mice, which lack progesterone signaling, also have defects in postpubertal uterine gland development. However, progesterone treatment did not rescue postpubertal uterine gland development. These studies indicate that chronically elevated levels of estradiol with low progesterone and therefore an absence of cyclic ovarian hormone secretion disrupts postpubertal uterine gland development and homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Allison Stewart
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - M David Stewart
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas 77004, USA
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Rachel D Mullen
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Bonnie K Kircher
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Rui Liang
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas 77004, USA
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas 77004, USA
| | - Richard R Behringer
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Correspondence: Richard R. Behringer, Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Ulloa-Aguirre A, Zariñán T, Gutiérrez-Sagal R, Tao YX. Targeting trafficking as a therapeutic avenue for misfolded GPCRs leading to endocrine diseases. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:934685. [PMID: 36093106 PMCID: PMC9452723 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.934685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are plasma membrane proteins associated with an array of functions. Mutations in these receptors lead to a number of genetic diseases, including diseases involving the endocrine system. A particular subset of loss-of-function mutant GPCRs are misfolded receptors unable to traffic to their site of function (i.e. the cell surface plasma membrane). Endocrine disorders in humans caused by GPCR misfolding include, among others, hypo- and hyper-gonadotropic hypogonadism, morbid obesity, familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia and neonatal severe hyperparathyroidism, X-linked nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, congenital hypothyroidism, and familial glucocorticoid resistance. Several in vitro and in vivo experimental approaches have been employed to restore function of some misfolded GPCRs linked to endocrine disfunction. The most promising approach is by employing pharmacological chaperones or pharmacoperones, which assist abnormally and incompletely folded proteins to refold correctly and adopt a more stable configuration to pass the scrutiny of the cell's quality control system, thereby correcting misrouting. This review covers the most important aspects that regulate folding and traffic of newly synthesized proteins, as well as the experimental approaches targeted to overcome protein misfolding, with special focus on GPCRs involved in endocrine diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Ulloa-Aguirre
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación (RAI), National University of Mexico and Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, Mexico City, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Alfredo Ulloa-Aguirre,
| | - Teresa Zariñán
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación (RAI), National University of Mexico and Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rubén Gutiérrez-Sagal
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación (RAI), National University of Mexico and Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ya-Xiong Tao
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, AL, United States
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Ulloa-Aguirre A, Zariñán T, Jardón-Valadez E. Misfolded G Protein-Coupled Receptors and Endocrine Disease. Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Prospects. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212329. [PMID: 34830210 PMCID: PMC8622668 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Misfolding of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) caused by mutations frequently leads to disease due to intracellular trapping of the conformationally abnormal receptor. Several endocrine diseases due to inactivating mutations in GPCRs have been described, including X-linked nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, thyroid disorders, familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia, obesity, familial glucocorticoid deficiency [melanocortin-2 receptor, MC2R (also known as adrenocorticotropin receptor, ACTHR), and reproductive disorders. In these mutant receptors, misfolding leads to endoplasmic reticulum retention, increased intracellular degradation, and deficient trafficking of the abnormal receptor to the cell surface plasma membrane, causing inability of the receptor to interact with agonists and trigger intracellular signaling. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms whereby mutations in GPCRs involved in endocrine function in humans lead to misfolding, decreased plasma membrane expression of the receptor protein, and loss-of-function diseases, and also describe several experimental approaches employed to rescue trafficking and function of the misfolded receptors. Special attention is given to misfolded GPCRs that regulate reproductive function, given the key role played by these particular membrane receptors in sexual development and fertility, and recent reports on promising therapeutic interventions targeting trafficking of these defective proteins to rescue completely or partially their normal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Ulloa-Aguirre
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México and Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, Mexico City 14080, Mexico;
- Correspondence:
| | - Teresa Zariñán
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México and Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, Mexico City 14080, Mexico;
| | - Eduardo Jardón-Valadez
- Departamento de Recursos de la Tierra, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Lerma, Lerma de Villada 52005, Estado de México, Mexico;
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Louden ED, Poch A, Kim HG, Ben-Mahmoud A, Kim SH, Layman LC. Genetics of hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism-Human and mouse genes, inheritance, oligogenicity, and genetic counseling. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 534:111334. [PMID: 34062169 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, which may be normosmic (nHH) or anosmic/hyposmic, known as Kallmann syndrome (KS), is due to gonadotropin-releasing hormone deficiency, which results in absent puberty and infertility. Investigation of the genetic basis of nHH/KS over the past 35 years has yielded a substantial increase in our understanding, as variants in 44 genes in OMIM account for ~50% of cases. The first genes for KS (ANOS1) and nHH (GNRHR) were followed by the discovery that FGFR1 variants may cause either nHH or KS. Associated anomalies include midline facial defects, neurologic deficits, cardiac anomalies, and renal agenesis, among others. Mouse models for all but one gene (ANOS1) generally support findings in humans. About half of the known genes implicated in nHH/KS are inherited as autosomal dominant and half are autosomal recessive, whereas only 7% are X-linked recessive. Digenic and oligogenic inheritance has been reported in 2-20% of patients, most commonly with variants in genes that may result in either nHH or KS inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion. In vitro analyses have only been conducted for both gene variants in eight cases and for one gene variant in 20 cases. Rigorous confirmation that two gene variants in the same individual cause the nHH/KS phenotype is lacking for most. Clinical diagnosis is probably best accomplished by targeted next generation sequencing of the known candidate genes with confirmation by Sanger sequencing. Elucidation of the genetic basis of nHH/KS has resulted in an enhanced understanding of this disorder, as well as normal puberty, which makes genetic diagnosis clinically relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica D Louden
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Department of Neuroscience & Regenerative Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Alexandra Poch
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Department of Neuroscience & Regenerative Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Hyung-Goo Kim
- Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Afif Ben-Mahmoud
- Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Soo-Hyun Kim
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St. George's, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, United Kingdom
| | - Lawrence C Layman
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Department of Neuroscience & Regenerative Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA.
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Babwah AV. The wonderful and masterful G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR): A focus on signaling mechanisms and the neuroendocrine control of fertility. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 515:110886. [PMID: 32574585 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Human GnRH deficiency, both clinically and genetically, is a heterogeneous disorder comprising of congenital GnRH deficiency with anosmia (Kallmann syndrome), or with normal olfaction [normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH)], and adult-onset hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Our understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying GnRH secretion and GnRH signaling continues to increase at a rapid rate and strikingly, the heterotrimeric guanine nucleotide-binding protein (G protein)-coupled receptors (GPCRs) continue to emerge as essential players in these processes. GPCRs were once viewed as binary on-off switches, where in the "on" state they are bound to their Gα protein, but now we understand that view is overly simplistic and does not adequately characterize GPCRs. Instead, GPCRs have emerged as masterful signaling molecules exploiting different physical conformational states of itself to elicit an array of downstream signaling events via their G proteins and the β-arrestins. The "one receptor-multiple signaling conformations" model is likely an evolved strategy that can be used to our advantage as researchers have shown that targeting specific receptor conformations via biased ligands is proving to be a powerful tool in the effective treatment of human diseases. Can biased ligands be used to selectively modulate signaling by GPCR regulators of the neuroendocrine axis in the treatment of IHH? As discussed in this review, the grand possibility exists. However, while we are still very far from developing these treatments, this exciting likelihood can happen through a much greater mechanistic understanding of how GPCRs signal within the cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy V Babwah
- Department of Pediatrics, Laboratory of Human Growth and Reproductive Development, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States; Child Health Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States.
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Modulation of proteostasis and protein trafficking: a therapeutic avenue for misfolded G protein-coupled receptors causing disease in humans. Emerg Top Life Sci 2019; 3:39-52. [PMID: 33523195 DOI: 10.1042/etls20180055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Revised: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Proteostasis refers to the process whereby the cell maintains in equilibrium the protein content of different compartments. This system consists of a highly interconnected network intended to efficiently regulate the synthesis, folding, trafficking, and degradation of newly synthesized proteins. Molecular chaperones are key players of the proteostasis network. These proteins assist in the assembly and folding processes of newly synthesized proteins in a concerted manner to achieve a three-dimensional structure compatible with export from the endoplasmic reticulum to other cell compartments. Pharmacologic interventions intended to modulate the proteostasis network and tackle the devastating effects of conformational diseases caused by protein misfolding are under development. These include small molecules called pharmacoperones, which are highly specific toward the target protein serving as a molecular framework to cause misfolded mutant proteins to fold and adopt a stable conformation suitable for passing the scrutiny of the quality control system and reach its correct location within the cell. Here, we review the main components of the proteostasis network and how pharmacoperones may be employed to correct misfolding of two G protein-coupled receptors, the vasopressin 2 receptor and the gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor, whose mutations lead to X-linked nephrogenic diabetes insipidus and congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in humans respectively.
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Acosta DAV, Schneider A, Jacometo CB, Rincon JA, Cardoso F, Corrêa MN. Effect of bovine somatotropin injection in late pregnant Holstein heifers on metabolic parameters and steroidogenic potential of the first postpartum dominant follicle. Theriogenology 2017; 104:164-172. [PMID: 28863349 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2016] [Revised: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the effect of pre-partum injections of bovine somatotropin (bST) in dairy heifers on metabolic markers and the steroidogenic potential of the first postpartum dominant follicle. Heifers were assigned to two groups: bST (ST; n = 29), that received two doses of bST (500 mg/dose) at -28 and -14 days relative to calving; and control (CTL; n = 30), that did not received bST. Follicular development was monitored via ultrasound every 3 days starting at 8 days in milk (DIM) in a subset of 20 heifers until the day the first large follicle reached a diameter of 16 mm. From these cows follicular fluid was aspirated and the follicular cells recovered (ST; n = 8 and CTL; n = 10). Blood samples were collected weekly for all heifers. Follicular fluid IGF-I concentrations of the first postpartum dominant follicle was higher (P = 0.05) in ST (87.1 ± 7.7 mg/mL) than CTL cows (64.3 ± 6.8 mg/mL). Also, E2 concentration in the follicular fluid was higher (P = 0.02) for ST (199.7 ± 55.9 ng/mL) than CTL cows (74.5 ± 37.7 ng/mL). The expression of LHCGR and STAR mRNA in follicular cells was higher (P < 0.05) in ST than CTL cows. Nonetheless, HSD3B, P450scc, P450c17, IGFr and CYP19A1 mRNA expression was not different between groups (P > 0.05). Serum IGF-I concentration was higher in ST treated heifers during the pre-partum period (P = 0.01) and no difference was observed in the postpartum period (P = 0.19). In conclusion, pre-partum bST treatment in dairy heifers increased intrafollicular IGF-I and expression of LHCGR and STAR mRNA in follicular cells of the first postpartum dominant follicle. These changes were associated to increased intrafollicular and serum E2 concentration, which can potentially increase the chance of ovulation of the first follicular wave.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Andres Velasco Acosta
- The Colombian Corporation for Agricultural Research (CORPOICA), Bogotá, 250047, Colombia; Research Center, Education and Extension in Livestock (NUPEEC), College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Augusto Schneider
- Department of Nutrition, College of Nutrition, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil; Research Center, Education and Extension in Livestock (NUPEEC), College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Carolina Bespalhok Jacometo
- Facultad Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de La Salle, Bogotá, 110231, Colombia; Research Center, Education and Extension in Livestock (NUPEEC), College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Joao Alvarado Rincon
- Department of Clinics, College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil; Research Center, Education and Extension in Livestock (NUPEEC), College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Felipe Cardoso
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Marcio Nunes Corrêa
- The Colombian Corporation for Agricultural Research (CORPOICA), Bogotá, 250047, Colombia; Research Center, Education and Extension in Livestock (NUPEEC), College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil.
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Busby ER, Sherwood NM. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (Gnrhr) gene knock out: Normal growth and development of sensory, motor and spatial orientation behavior but altered metabolism in neonatal and prepubertal mice. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0174452. [PMID: 28346489 PMCID: PMC5367835 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0174452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is important in the control of reproduction, but its actions in non-reproductive processes are less well known. In this study we examined the effect of disrupting the GnRH receptor in mice to determine if growth, metabolism or behaviors that are not associated with reproduction were affected. To minimize the effects of other hormones such as FSH, LH and sex steroids, the neonatal-prepubertal period of 2 to 28 days of age was selected. The study shows that regardless of sex or phenotype in the Gnrhr gene knockout line, there was no significant difference in the daily development of motor control, sensory detection or spatial orientation among the wildtype, heterozygous or null mice. This included a series of behavioral tests for touch, vision, hearing, spatial orientation, locomotory behavior and muscle strength. Neither the daily body weight nor the final weight on day 28 of the kidney, liver and thymus relative to body weight varied significantly in any group. However by day 28, metabolic changes in the GnRH null females compared with wildtype females showed a significant reduction in inguinal fat pad weight normalized to body weight; this was accompanied by an increase in glucose compared with wildtype females shown by Student-Newman-Keuls Multiple Comparison test and Student's unpaired t tests. Our studies show that the GnRH-GnRHR system is not essential for growth or motor/sensory/orientation behavior during the first month of life prior to puberty onset. The lack of the GnRH-GnRHR axis, however, did affect females resulting in reduced subcutaneous inguinal fat pad weight and increased glucose with possible insulin resistance; the loss of the normal rise of estradiol at postnatal days 15-28 may account for the altered metabolism in the prepubertal female pups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen R. Busby
- Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
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Abstract
Kallmann syndrome is an inherited deficiency of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) that is characterized by hypogonadism with delayed or absent puberty and dysfunctional olfaction. While Kallmann syndrome-associated mutations have been identified in some sets of patients, for many of these individuals, the underlying cause remains unknown. In this issue of the JCI, Cariboni and colleagues identify mutations in semaphorin 3E (SEMA3E) in two brothers with Kallmann syndrome. In animal models, loss of SEMA3E signaling recapitulated phenotypes of the probands and resulted in enhanced GnRH neuron death during development. The results of this study offer important insight into the development of Kallmann syndrome and provide tools for elucidating mutations that underlie complex hormonal phenotypes.
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Tao YX, Conn PM. Chaperoning G protein-coupled receptors: from cell biology to therapeutics. Endocr Rev 2014; 35:602-47. [PMID: 24661201 PMCID: PMC4105357 DOI: 10.1210/er.2013-1121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2013] [Accepted: 03/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are membrane proteins that traverse the plasma membrane seven times (hence, are also called 7TM receptors). The polytopic structure of GPCRs makes the folding of GPCRs difficult and complex. Indeed, many wild-type GPCRs are not folded optimally, and defects in folding are the most common cause of genetic diseases due to GPCR mutations. Both general and receptor-specific molecular chaperones aid the folding of GPCRs. Chemical chaperones have been shown to be able to correct the misfolding in mutant GPCRs, proving to be important tools for studying the structure-function relationship of GPCRs. However, their potential therapeutic value is very limited. Pharmacological chaperones (pharmacoperones) are potentially important novel therapeutics for treating genetic diseases caused by mutations in GPCR genes that resulted in misfolded mutant proteins. Pharmacoperones also increase cell surface expression of wild-type GPCRs; therefore, they could be used to treat diseases that do not harbor mutations in GPCRs. Recent studies have shown that indeed pharmacoperones work in both experimental animals and patients. High-throughput assays have been developed to identify new pharmacoperones that could be used as therapeutics for a number of endocrine and other genetic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Xiong Tao
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology (Y.-X.T.), College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama 36849-5519; and Departments of Internal Medicine and Cell Biology (P.M.C.), Texas Tech University Health Science Center, Lubbock, Texas 79430-6252
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Ulloa-Aguirre A, Zariñán T, Dias JA, Conn PM. Mutations in G protein-coupled receptors that impact receptor trafficking and reproductive function. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 382:411-423. [PMID: 23806559 PMCID: PMC3844050 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2013] [Revised: 05/28/2013] [Accepted: 06/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a large superfamily of integral cell surface plasma membrane proteins that play key roles in transducing extracellular signals, including sensory stimuli, hormones, neurotransmitters, or paracrine factors into the intracellular environment through the activation of one or more heterotrimeric G proteins. Structural alterations provoked by mutations or variations in the genes coding for GPCRs may lead to misfolding, altered plasma membrane expression of the receptor protein and frequently to disease. A number of GPCRs regulate reproductive function at different levels; these receptors include the gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRHR) and the gonadotropin receptors (follicle-stimulating hormone receptor and luteinizing hormone receptor), which regulate the function of the pituitary-gonadal axis. Loss-of-function mutations in these receptors may lead to hypogonadotropic or hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, which encompass a broad spectrum of clinical phenotypes. In this review we describe mutations that provoke misfolding and failure of these receptors to traffick from the endoplasmic reticulum to the plasma membrane. We also discuss some aspects related to the therapeutic potential of some target-specific drugs that selectively bind to and rescue function of misfolded mutant GnRHR and gonadotropin receptors, and that represent potentially valuable strategies to treat diseases caused by inactivating mutations of these receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Ulloa-Aguirre
- Division of Reproductive Health, Research Center in Population Health, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, Mexico; Divisions of Reproductive Sciences and Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA.
| | - Teresa Zariñán
- Research Unit in Reproductive Medicine, UMAE Hospital de Ginecobstetricia "Luis Castelazo Ayala", Mexico, DF, Mexico
| | - James A Dias
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA
| | - P Michael Conn
- Divisions of Reproductive Sciences and Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
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Conn PM, Smithson DC, Hodder PS, Stewart MD, Behringer RR, Smith E, Ulloa-Aguirre A, Janovick JA. Transitioning pharmacoperones to therapeutic use: in vivo proof-of-principle and design of high throughput screens. Pharmacol Res 2013; 83:38-51. [PMID: 24373832 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2013.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2013] [Revised: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 12/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
A pharmacoperone (from "pharmacological chaperone") is a small molecule that enters cells and serves as molecular scaffolding in order to cause otherwise-misfolded mutant proteins to fold and route correctly within the cell. Pharmacoperones have broad therapeutic applicability since a large number of diseases have their genesis in the misfolding of proteins and resultant misrouting within the cell. Misrouting may result in loss-of-function and, potentially, the accumulation of defective mutants in cellular compartments. Most known pharmacoperones were initially derived from receptor antagonist screens and, for this reason, present a complex pharmacology, although these are highly target specific. In this summary, we describe efforts to produce high throughput screens that identify these molecules from chemical libraries as well as a mouse model which provides proof-of-principle for in vivo protein rescue using existing pharmacoperones.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Michael Conn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Science Center, 3601 4th Street, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States; Department of Cell Biology, Texas Tech University Health Science Center, 3601 4th Street, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States.
| | - David C Smithson
- Oregon Translational Research and Drug Development Institute (OTRADI), Portland, OR 97201, United States
| | - Peter S Hodder
- Translational Research Institute, Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, United States
| | - M David Stewart
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, United States; Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, United States
| | - Richard R Behringer
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Emery Smith
- Translational Research Institute, Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, United States
| | - Alfredo Ulloa-Aguirre
- Research Support Network, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Medicas y Nutricion, S-Z Universidad Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico, D.F., Mexico
| | - Jo Ann Janovick
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Science Center, 3601 4th Street, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States; Department of Cell Biology, Texas Tech University Health Science Center, 3601 4th Street, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States
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Restoration of testis function in hypogonadotropic hypogonadal mice harboring a misfolded GnRHR mutant by pharmacoperone drug therapy. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2013; 110:21030-5. [PMID: 24324164 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1315194110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in receptors, ion channels, and enzymes are frequently recognized by the cellular quality control system as misfolded and retained in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or otherwise misrouted. Retention results in loss of function at the normal site of biological activity and disease. Pharmacoperones are target-specific small molecules that diffuse into cells and serve as folding templates that enable mutant proteins to pass the criteria of the quality control system and route to their physiologic site of action. Pharmacoperones of the gonadotropin releasing hormone receptor (GnRHR) have efficacy in cell culture systems, and their cellular and biochemical mechanisms of action are known. Here, we show the efficacy of a pharmacoperone drug in a small animal model, a knock-in mouse, expressing a mutant GnRHR. This recessive mutation (GnRHR E(90)K) causes hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (failed puberty associated with low or apulsatile luteinizing hormone) in both humans and in the mouse model described. We find that pulsatile pharmacoperone therapy restores E(90)K from ER retention to the plasma membrane, concurrently with responsiveness to the endogenous natural ligand, gonadotropin releasing hormone, and an agonist that is specific for the mutant. Spermatogenesis, proteins associated with steroid transport and steroidogenesis, and androgen levels were restored in mutant male mice following pharmacoperone therapy. These results show the efficacy of pharmacoperone therapy in vivo by using physiological, molecular, genetic, endocrine and biochemical markers and optimization of pulsatile administration. We expect that this newly appreciated approach of protein rescue will benefit other disorders sharing pathologies based on misrouting of misfolded protein mutants.
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