1
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Rodriguez P, Laskowski LJ, Pallais JP, Bock HA, Cavalco NG, Anderson EI, Calkins MM, Razzoli M, Sham YY, McCorvy JD, Bartolomucci A. Functional profiling of the G protein-coupled receptor C3aR1 reveals ligand-mediated biased agonism. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:105549. [PMID: 38072064 PMCID: PMC10796979 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are leading druggable targets for several medicines, but many GPCRs are still untapped for their therapeutic potential due to poor understanding of specific signaling properties. The complement C3a receptor 1 (C3aR1) has been extensively studied for its physiological role in C3a-mediated anaphylaxis/inflammation, and in TLQP-21-mediated lipolysis, but direct evidence for the functional relevance of the C3a and TLQP-21 ligands and signal transduction mechanisms are still limited. In addition, C3aR1 G protein coupling specificity is still unclear, and whether endogenous ligands, or drug-like compounds, show ligand-mediated biased agonism is unknown. Here, we demonstrate that C3aR1 couples preferentially to Gi/o/z proteins and can recruit β-arrestins to cause internalization. Furthermore, we showed that in comparison to C3a63-77, TLQP-21 exhibits a preference toward Gi/o-mediated signaling compared to β-arrestin recruitment and internalization. We also show that the purported antagonist SB290157 is a very potent C3aR1 agonist, where antagonism of ligand-stimulated C3aR1 calcium flux is caused by potent β-arrestin-mediated internalization. Finally, ligand-mediated signaling bias impacted cell function as demonstrated by the regulation of calcium influx, lipolysis in adipocytes, phagocytosis in microglia, and degranulation in mast cells. Overall, we characterize C3aR1 as a Gi/o/z-coupled receptor and demonstrate the functional relevance of ligand-mediated signaling bias in key cellular models. Due to C3aR1 and its endogenous ligands being implicated in inflammatory and metabolic diseases, these results are of relevance toward future C3aR1 drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Rodriguez
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Lauren J Laskowski
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jean Pierre Pallais
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Hailey A Bock
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Natalie G Cavalco
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Emilie I Anderson
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Maggie M Calkins
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Maria Razzoli
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Yuk Y Sham
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - John D McCorvy
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
| | - Alessandro Bartolomucci
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.
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2
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Li XX, Lee JD, Lee HS, Clark RJ, Woodruff TM. TLQP-21 is a low potency partial C3aR activator on human primary macrophages. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1086673. [PMID: 36776827 PMCID: PMC9909341 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1086673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
TLQP-21 is a 21-amino acid neuropeptide derived from the VGF precursor protein. TLQP-21 is expressed in the nervous system and neuroendocrine glands, and demonstrates pleiotropic roles including regulating metabolism, nociception and microglial functions. Several possible receptors for TLQP-21 have been identified, with complement C3a receptor (C3aR) being the most commonly reported. However, few studies have characterised the activity of TLQP-21 in immune cells, which represent the major cell type expressing C3aR. In this study, we therefore aimed to define the activity of both human and mouse TLQP-21 on cell signalling in primary human and mouse macrophages. We first confirmed that TLQP-21 induced ERK signalling in CHO cells overexpressing human C3aR, and did not activate human C5aR1 or C5aR2. TLQP-21 mediated ERK signalling was also observed in primary human macrophages. However, the potency for human TLQP-21 was 135,000-fold lower relative to C3a, and only reached 45% at the highest dose tested (10 μM). Unlike in humans, mouse TLQP-21 potently triggered ERK signalling in murine macrophages, reaching near full activation, but at ~10-fold reduced potency compared to C3a. We further confirmed the C3aR dependency of the TLQP-21 activities. Our results reveal significant discrepancy in TLQP-21 C3aR activity between human and murine receptors, with mouse TLQP-21 being consistently more potent than the human counterpart in both systems. Considering the supraphysiological concentrations of hTLQP-21 needed to only partially activate macrophages, it is likely that the actions of TLQP-21, at least in these immune cells, may not be mediated by C3aR in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xaria X Li
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - John D Lee
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Han S Lee
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Richard J Clark
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Trent M Woodruff
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
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3
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Wang Y, Qin X, Han Y, Li B. VGF: A prospective biomarker and therapeutic target for neuroendocrine and nervous system disorders. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 151:113099. [PMID: 35594706 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroendocrine regulatory polypeptide VGF (nerve growth factor inducible) was firstly found in the rapid induction of nerve growth factor on PC12 cells. It was selectively distributed in neurons and many neuroendocrine tissues. This paper reviewed the latest literatures on the gene structure, transcriptional regulation, protein processing, distribution and potential receptors of VGF. The neuroendocrine roles of VGF and its derived polypeptides in regulating energy, water electrolyte balance, circadian rhythm and reproductive activities were also summarized. Furthermore, based on the experimental evidence in vivo and in vitro, dysregulation of VGF in different neuroendocrine diseases and the possible mechanism mediated by VGF polypeptides were discussed. We next discussed the potential as the clinical diagnosis and therapy for VGF related diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibei Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China; Department of Developmental Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China.
| | - Xiaoxue Qin
- Department of Developmental Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China.
| | - Yun Han
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China.
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Developmental Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China.
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4
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Sahu BS, Nguyen ME, Rodriguez P, Pallais JP, Ghosh V, Razzoli M, Sham YY, Salton SR, Bartolomucci A. The molecular identity of the TLQP-21 peptide receptor. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:7133-7144. [PMID: 34626205 PMCID: PMC8629782 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03944-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The TLQP-21 neuropeptide has been implicated in functions as diverse as lipolysis, neurodegeneration and metabolism, thus suggesting an important role in several human diseases. Three binding targets have been proposed for TLQP-21: C3aR1, gC1qR and HSPA8. The aim of this review is to critically evaluate the molecular identity of the TLQP-21 receptor and the proposed multi-receptor mechanism of action. Several studies confirm a critical role for C3aR1 in TLQP-21 biological activity and a largely conserved mode of binding, receptor activation and signaling with C3a, its first-identified endogenous ligand. Conversely, data supporting a role of gC1qR and HSPA8 in TLQP-21 activity remain limited, with no signal transduction pathways being described. Overall, C3aR1 is the only receptor for which a necessary and sufficient role in TLQP-21 activity has been confirmed thus far. This conclusion calls into question the validity of a multi-receptor mechanism of action for TLQP-21 and should inform future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavani S Sahu
- National Brain Research Centre, NH-8, Manesar, Gurugram, Haryana, 122052, India
| | - Megin E Nguyen
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, 2231 6th St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Pedro Rodriguez
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, 2231 6th St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Jean Pierre Pallais
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, 2231 6th St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Vinayak Ghosh
- National Brain Research Centre, NH-8, Manesar, Gurugram, Haryana, 122052, India
| | - Maria Razzoli
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, 2231 6th St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Yuk Y Sham
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, 2231 6th St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Stephen R Salton
- Departments of Neuroscience and Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Alessandro Bartolomucci
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, 2231 6th St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
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Quinn JP, Kandigian SE, Trombetta BA, Arnold SE, Carlyle BC. VGF as a biomarker and therapeutic target in neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases. Brain Commun 2021; 3:fcab261. [PMID: 34778762 PMCID: PMC8578498 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcab261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurosecretory protein VGF (non-acronymic) belongs to the granin family of neuropeptides. VGF and VGF-derived peptides have been repeatedly identified in well-powered and well-designed multi-omic studies as dysregulated in neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases. New therapeutics is urgently needed for these devastating and costly diseases, as are new biomarkers to improve disease diagnosis and mechanistic understanding. From a list of 537 genes involved in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis, VGF was highlighted by the Accelerating Medicines Partnership in Alzheimer's disease as the potential therapeutic target of greatest interest. VGF levels are consistently decreased in brain tissue and CSF samples from patients with Alzheimer's disease compared to controls, and its levels correlate with disease severity and Alzheimer's disease pathology. In the brain, VGF exists as multiple functional VGF-derived peptides. Full-length human VGF1-615 undergoes proteolytic processing by prohormone convertases and other proteases in the regulated secretory pathway to produce at least 12 active VGF-derived peptides. In cell and animal models, these VGF-derived peptides have been linked to energy balance regulation, neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, learning and memory, and depression-related behaviours throughout development and adulthood. The C-terminal VGF-derived peptides, TLQP-62 (VGF554-615) and TLQP-21 (VGF554-574) have differential effects on Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis, neuronal and microglial activity, and learning and memory. TLQP-62 activates neuronal cell-surface receptors and regulates long-term hippocampal memory formation. TLQP-62 also prevents immune-mediated memory impairment, depression-like and anxiety-like behaviours in mice. TLQP-21 binds to microglial cell-surface receptors, triggering microglial chemotaxis and phagocytosis. These actions were reported to reduce amyloid-β plaques and decrease neuritic dystrophy in a transgenic mouse model of familial Alzheimer's disease. Expression differences of VGF-derived peptides have also been associated with frontotemporal lobar dementias, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Lewy body diseases, Huntington's disease, pain, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression and antidepressant response. This review summarizes current knowledge and highlights questions for future investigation regarding the roles of VGF and its dysregulation in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disease. Finally, the potential of VGF and VGF-derived peptides as biomarkers and novel therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P Quinn
- Department of Neurology, Alzheimer's Clinical & Translational Research Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Savannah E Kandigian
- Department of Neurology, Alzheimer's Clinical & Translational Research Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Bianca A Trombetta
- Department of Neurology, Alzheimer's Clinical & Translational Research Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Steven E Arnold
- Department of Neurology, Alzheimer's Clinical & Translational Research Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Becky C Carlyle
- Department of Neurology, Alzheimer's Clinical & Translational Research Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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The VGF-derived Peptide TLQP21 Impairs Purinergic Control of Chemotaxis and Phagocytosis in Mouse Microglia. J Neurosci 2020; 40:3320-3331. [PMID: 32060170 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1458-19.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglial cells are considered as sensors of brain pathology by detecting any sign of brain lesions, infections, or dysfunction and can influence the onset and progression of neurological diseases. They are capable of sensing their neuronal environment via many different signaling molecules, such as neurotransmitters, neurohormones and neuropeptides. The neuropeptide VGF has been associated with many metabolic and neurological disorders. TLQP21 is a VGF-derived peptide and has been shown to signal via C3aR1 and C1qBP receptors. The effect of TLQP21 on microglial functions in health or disease is not known. Studying microglial cells in acute brain slices, we found that TLQP21 impaired metabotropic purinergic signaling. Specifically, it attenuated the ATP-induced activation of a K+ conductance, the UDP-stimulated phagocytic activity, and the ATP-dependent laser lesion-induced process outgrowth. These impairments were reversed by blocking C1qBP, but not C3aR1 receptors. While microglia in brain slices from male mice lack C3aR1 receptors, both receptors are expressed in primary cultured microglia. In addition to the negative impact on purinergic signaling, we found stimulating effects of TLQP21 in cultured microglia, which were mediated by C3aR1 receptors: it directly evoked membrane currents, stimulated basal phagocytic activity, evoked intracellular Ca2+ transient elevations, and served as a chemotactic signal. We conclude that TLQP21 has differential effects on microglia depending on C3aR1 activation or C1qBP-dependent attenuation of purinergic signaling. Thus, TLQP21 can modulate the functional phenotype of microglia, which may have an impact on their function in health and disease.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The neuropeptide VGF and its peptides have been associated with many metabolic and neurological disorders. TLQP21 is a VGF-derived peptide that activates C1qBP receptors, which are expressed by microglia. We show here, for the first time, that TLQP21 impairs P2Y-mediated purinergic signaling and related functions. These include modulation of phagocytic activity and responses to injury. As purinergic signaling is central for microglial actions in the brain, this TLQP21-mediated mechanism might regulate microglial activity in health and disease. We furthermore show that, in addition to C1qBP, functional C3aR1 responses contribute to TLQP21 action on microglia. However, C3aR1 responses were only present in primary cultures but not in situ, suggesting that the expression of these receptors might vary between different microglial activation states.
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Bresciani E, Possenti R, Coco S, Rizzi L, Meanti R, Molteni L, Locatelli V, Torsello A. TLQP-21, A VGF-Derived Peptide Endowed of Endocrine and Extraendocrine Properties: Focus on In Vitro Calcium Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010130. [PMID: 31878142 PMCID: PMC6982260 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
VGF gene encodes for a neuropeptide precursor of 68 kDa composed by 615 (human) and 617 (rat, mice) residues, expressed prevalently in the central nervous system (CNS), but also in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and in various endocrine cells. This precursor undergoes proteolytic cleavage, generating a family of peptides different in length and biological activity. Among them, TLQP-21, a peptide of 21 amino acids, has been widely investigated for its relevant endocrine and extraendocrine activities. The complement complement C3a receptor-1 (C3aR1) has been suggested as the TLQP-21 receptor and, in different cell lines, its activation by TLQP-21 induces an increase of intracellular Ca2+. This effect relies both on Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and extracellular Ca2+ entry. The latter depends on stromal interaction molecules (STIM)-Orai1 interaction or transient receptor potential channel (TRPC) involvement. After Ca2+ entry, the activation of outward K+-Ca2+-dependent currents, mainly the KCa3.1 currents, provides a membrane polarizing influence which offset the depolarizing action of Ca2+ elevation and indirectly maintains the driving force for optimal Ca2+ increase in the cytosol. In this review, we address the main endocrine and extraendocrine actions displayed by TLQP-21, highlighting recent findings on its mechanism of action and its potential in different pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Bresciani
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (S.C.); (L.R.); (R.M.); (L.M.); (V.L.); (A.T.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Roberta Possenti
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Roma Tor Vergata, 00133 Roma, Italy;
| | - Silvia Coco
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (S.C.); (L.R.); (R.M.); (L.M.); (V.L.); (A.T.)
| | - Laura Rizzi
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (S.C.); (L.R.); (R.M.); (L.M.); (V.L.); (A.T.)
| | - Ramona Meanti
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (S.C.); (L.R.); (R.M.); (L.M.); (V.L.); (A.T.)
| | - Laura Molteni
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (S.C.); (L.R.); (R.M.); (L.M.); (V.L.); (A.T.)
| | - Vittorio Locatelli
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (S.C.); (L.R.); (R.M.); (L.M.); (V.L.); (A.T.)
| | - Antonio Torsello
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (S.C.); (L.R.); (R.M.); (L.M.); (V.L.); (A.T.)
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8
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VGF: a biomarker and potential target for the treatment of neuropathic pain? Pain Rep 2019; 4:e786. [PMID: 31875189 PMCID: PMC6882576 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000000786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. Neuropathic pain (NP) remains an area of considerable unmet medical need. A persistent challenge in the management of NP is to target the specific mechanisms leading to a change from normal to abnormal sensory perception while ensuring that the defensive pain perception remains intact. Targeting VGF-derived neuropeptides may offer this opportunity. VGF was first identified in 1985 and is highly expressed after nerve injury and inflammation in neurons of both the peripheral and central nervous system. Subsequent studies implicate the vgf gene and its products in pain pathways. This narrative review was supported by a systematic search to identify, select, and critically appraise all relevant research investigating the role of VGF-derived neuropeptides in pain pathways. It predominantly focuses on in vivo investigations of the role of VGF in the initiation and maintenance of NP. VGF expression levels are very low under normal physiological conditions and nerve injury results in rapid and robust upregulation, increasing mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity. The identification of the 2 complement receptors with which VGF neuropeptides interact suggests a novel interplay of neuronal and immune signalling mediators. The understanding of the molecular mechanisms and signalling events by which VGF-derived active neuropeptides exert their physiological actions is in its infancy. Future work should aim to improve understanding of the downstream consequences of VGF neuropeptides thereby providing novel insights into pain mechanisms potentially leading to the identification of novel therapeutic targets.
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9
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Sahu BS, Rodriguez P, Nguyen ME, Han R, Cero C, Razzoli M, Piaggi P, Laskowski LJ, Pavlicev M, Muglia L, Mahata SK, O'Grady S, McCorvy JD, Baier LJ, Sham YY, Bartolomucci A. Peptide/Receptor Co-evolution Explains the Lipolytic Function of the Neuropeptide TLQP-21. Cell Rep 2019; 28:2567-2580.e6. [PMID: 31484069 PMCID: PMC6753381 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.07.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Structural and functional diversity of peptides and GPCR result from long evolutionary processes. Even small changes in sequence can alter receptor activation, affecting therapeutic efficacy. We conducted a structure-function relationship study on the neuropeptide TLQP-21, a promising target for obesity, and its complement 3a receptor (C3aR1). After having characterized the TLQP-21/C3aR1 lipolytic mechanism, a homology modeling and molecular dynamics simulation identified the TLQP-21 binding motif and C3aR1 binding site for the human (h) and mouse (m) molecules. mTLQP-21 showed enhanced binding affinity and potency for hC3aR1 compared with hTLQP-21. Consistently, mTLQP-21, but not hTLQP-21, potentiates lipolysis in human adipocytes. These findings led us to uncover five mutations in the C3aR1 binding pocket of the rodent Murinae subfamily that are causal for enhanced calculated affinity and measured potency of TLQP-21. Identifying functionally relevant peptide/receptor co-evolution mechanisms can facilitate the development of innovative pharmacotherapies for obesity and other diseases implicating GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavani S Sahu
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, 2231 6(th) St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Pedro Rodriguez
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, 2231 6(th) St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Megin E Nguyen
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, 2231 6(th) St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Ruijun Han
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, 2231 6(th) St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Cheryl Cero
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, 2231 6(th) St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Maria Razzoli
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, 2231 6(th) St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Paolo Piaggi
- Phoenix Epidemiology and Clinical Research Branch, National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, NIH, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Lauren J Laskowski
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Mihaela Pavlicev
- Division of Human Genetics, Center for Prevention of Preterm Birth, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Louis Muglia
- Division of Human Genetics, Center for Prevention of Preterm Birth, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Sushil K Mahata
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Scott O'Grady
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, 480 Haecker Hall, 1364 Eckles Avenue, St. Paul, MN, USA
| | - John D McCorvy
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Leslie J Baier
- Phoenix Epidemiology and Clinical Research Branch, National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, NIH, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Yuk Y Sham
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, 2231 6(th) St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, USA; Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Alessandro Bartolomucci
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, 2231 6(th) St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
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10
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Akgün E, Lunzer MM, Portoghese PS. Combined Glia Inhibition and Opioid Receptor Agonism Afford Highly Potent Analgesics without Tolerance. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:2004-2011. [PMID: 30110531 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Commonly prescribed opioid analgesics produce tolerance upon chronic use due in part to induction of hyperalgesia. Given that two reported bivalent ligands (MMG22 and MCC22) produce potent antinociception without tolerance only in inflamed mice, we have investigated the possible cellular and receptor targets of these ligands. The selective microglia inhibitors, minocycline and SB290157, antagonized intrathecal (i.t.) MCC22 antinociception orders of magnitude more potently than MMG22, suggesting that MCC22 selectively targets activated microglia. The astrocyte toxin, l-α-aminoadipic acid antagonized MMG22 antinociception 126-fold without reducing the potency of MCC22, indicating that activated astrocytes are targets of MMG22. MK-801 and Ro25-6981 antagonism of MMG22 antinociception, but not MCC22, is consistent with selective inhibition of activated NMDAR in astrocytes. The antinociception produced by i.t. MMG22 or MCC22 were both antagonized by the selective mu opioid receptor antagonist, β-FNA, implicating interaction of these ligands with MOR in spinal afferent neurons. MCC22 antinociception was potently blocked by kainate or AMPA ion channel antagonists (LY382884; NBQX), in contrast to MMG22. It is concluded that i.t. MMG22 and MCC22 produce exceptional antinociception via potent inhibition of activated spinal glia, thereby leading to desensitization of spinal neurons and enhanced activation of neuronal MOR. Thus, the present study suggests a new approach to treatment of chronic inflammatory pain without tolerance through a single molecular entity that simultaneously inhibits activated glia and stimulates MOR in spinal neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eyup Akgün
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Mary M. Lunzer
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Philip S. Portoghese
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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11
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Noda Y, Motoyama S, Nakamura S, Shimazawa M, Hara H. Neuropeptide VGF-Derived Peptide LQEQ-19 has Neuroprotective Effects in an In Vitro Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Neurochem Res 2019; 44:897-904. [PMID: 30656593 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-019-02725-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe neurodegenerative disease caused by the loss of upper and lower motor neurons resulting in muscle weakness and paralysis. Recently, VGF, a neuropeptide that is a precursor of bioactive polypeptides, was found to be decreased in ALS patients, and its inducer exerted protective effects in models of ALS. These findings suggested that VGF was involved in the pathology of ALS. Here, we investigated the neuroprotective effects of various VGF-derived peptides in an in vitro ALS model. We applied seven VGF-derived peptides (TLQP-21, AQEE-30, AQEE-11, LQEQ-19, QEEL-16, LENY-13, and HVLL-7) to the motor neuron-derived cell line, NSC-34, expressing SOD1G93A, which is one of the mutated proteins responsible for familial ALS. Nuclear staining revealed that AQEE-30 and LQEQ-19, which are derived from the C-terminal polypeptide of the VGF precursor protein, attenuated neuronal cell death. Furthermore, immunoblot analysis demonstrated that LQEQ-19 promoted the phosphorylation of Akt and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, and inhibiting these mitogen-activated MAP kinases (MAPKs) with phosphoinositide 3-kinase or MEK/ERK inhibitors, eliminated the neuroprotective effects of LQEQ-19. In conclusion, these results suggest that VGF C-terminal peptides exert their neuroprotective effects via activation of MAPKs such as Akt and ERK1/2. Furthermore, these findings indicate that VGF-derived peptides have potential application in ALS therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Noda
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu, 501-1196, Japan
| | - S Motoyama
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu, 501-1196, Japan
| | - S Nakamura
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu, 501-1196, Japan
| | - M Shimazawa
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu, 501-1196, Japan
| | - H Hara
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu, 501-1196, Japan.
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12
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Molteni L, Rizzi L, Bresciani E, Meanti R, Fehrentz JA, Verdié P, Omeljaniuk RJ, Biagini G, Locatelli V, Torsello A. STIM Proteins and Orai Ca 2+ Channels Are Involved in the Intracellular Pathways Activated by TLQP-21 in RAW264.7 Macrophages. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1386. [PMID: 30542288 PMCID: PMC6277904 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
TLQP-21 is a neuropeptide which has been implicated in regulation of nociception and other relevant physiologic functions. Although recent studies identified C3a and gC1q receptors as targets for TLQP-21, its intracellular molecular mechanisms of action remain largely unidentified. Our aim was (i) to explore the intracellular signaling pathway(s) activated by JMV5656, a novel derivative of TLQP-21, in RAW264.7 macrophages, and (ii) to assess linkages of these pathways with its purported receptors. JMV5656 stimulated, in a dose-dependent fashion, a rapid and transient increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentrations in RAW264.7 cells; repeated exposure to the peptide resulted in a lower response, suggesting a possible desensitization mechanism of the receptor. In particular, JMV5656 increased cytoplasmic Ca2+ levels by a PLC-dependent release of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum. STIM proteins and Orai Ca2+ channels were activated and played a crucial role. In fact, treatment of the cells with U73122 and thapsigargin modulated the increase of intracellular Ca2+ levels stimulated by JMV5656. Moreover, in RAW264.7 cells intracellular Ca2+ increases did not occur through the binding of JMV5656 to the C3a receptor, since the increase of intracellular Ca2+ levels induced by JMV5656 was not affected by specific siRNA against C3aR. In summary, our study provides new indications for the downstream effects of JMV5656 in macrophages, suggesting that it could activate receptors different from the C3aR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Molteni
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Laura Rizzi
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Elena Bresciani
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Ramona Meanti
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Jean-Alain Fehrentz
- CNRS, Max Mousseron Institute of Biomolecules UMR5247, ENSCM, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Pascal Verdié
- CNRS, Max Mousseron Institute of Biomolecules UMR5247, ENSCM, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Giuseppe Biagini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Laboratory of Experimental Epileptology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Vittorio Locatelli
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Antonio Torsello
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
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13
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Turolla EA, Valtorta S, Bresciani E, Fehrentz JA, Giuliano L, Stucchi S, Belloli S, Rainone P, Sudati F, Rizzi L, Molteni L, Verdiè P, Martinez J, Torsello A, Moresco RM, Todde S. Study of the Tissue Distribution of TLQP-21 in Mice Using [ 18F]JMV5763, a Radiolabeled Analog Prepared via [ 18F]Aluminum Fluoride Chelation Chemistry. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1274. [PMID: 30542281 PMCID: PMC6277862 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
TLQP-21 is a neuropeptide that is involved in the control of several physiological functions, including energy homeostasis. Since TLQP-21 could oppose the early phase of diet-induced obesity, it has raised a huge interest, but very little is known about its mechanisms of action on peripheral tissues. Our aim was to investigate TLQP-21 distribution in brain and peripheral tissues after systemic administration using positron emission tomography. We report here the radiolabeling of NODA-methyl phenylacetic acid (MPAA) functionalized JMV5763, a short analog of TLQP-21, with [18F]aluminum fluoride. Labeling of JMV5763 was initially performed manually, on a small scale, and then optimized and implemented on a fully automated radiosynthesis system. In the first experiment, mice were injected in the tail vein with [18F]JMV5763, and central and peripheral tissues were collected 13, 30, and 60 min after injection. Significant uptake of [18F]JMV5763 was found in stomach, intestine, kidney, liver, and adrenal gland. In the CNS, very low uptake values were measured in all tested areas, suggesting that the tracer does not efficiently cross the blood–brain barrier. Pretreatment with non-radioactive JMV5763 caused a significant reduction of tracer uptake only in stomach and intestine. In the second experiment, PET analysis was performed in vivo 10–120 min after i.v. [18F]JMV5763 administration. Results were consistent with those of the ex vivo determinations. PET images showed a progressive increase of [18F]JMV5763 uptake in intestine and stomach reaching a peak at 30 min, and decreasing at 120 min. Our results demonstrate that 18F-labeling of TLQP-21 analogs is a suitable method to study its distribution in the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elia A Turolla
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.,Tecnomed Foundation, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Valtorta
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.,National Research Council, Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Bresciani
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Jean-Alain Fehrentz
- Institute of Biomolécules Max Mousseron, University of Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, School of Pharmacy, Montpellier, France
| | - Liliana Giuliano
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.,Tecnomed Foundation, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Stucchi
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.,Tecnomed Foundation, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Belloli
- National Research Council, Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology, Milan, Italy.,Nuclear Medicine Department, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Rainone
- Nuclear Medicine Department, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.,Doctorate School of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Sudati
- Nuclear Medicine Department, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Rizzi
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Molteni
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Pascal Verdiè
- Institute of Biomolécules Max Mousseron, University of Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, School of Pharmacy, Montpellier, France
| | - Jean Martinez
- Institute of Biomolécules Max Mousseron, University of Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, School of Pharmacy, Montpellier, France
| | - Antonio Torsello
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Rosa Maria Moresco
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.,National Research Council, Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology, Milan, Italy.,Nuclear Medicine Department, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Sergio Todde
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.,Tecnomed Foundation, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
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14
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Guo Z, Sahu BS, He R, Finan B, Cero C, Verardi R, Razzoli M, Veglia G, Di Marchi RD, Miles JM, Bartolomucci A. Clearance kinetics of the VGF-derived neuropeptide TLQP-21. Neuropeptides 2018; 71:97-103. [PMID: 29958697 PMCID: PMC6166661 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2018.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED TLQP-21 is a multifunctional neuropeptide and a promising new medicinal target for cardiometabolic and neurological diseases. However, to date its clearance kinetics and plasma stability have not been studied. The presence of four arginine residues led us to hypothesize that its half-life is relatively short. Conversely, its biological activities led us to hypothesize that the peptide is still taken up by adipose tissues effectively. [125I]TLQP-21 was i.v. administered in rats followed by chasing the plasma radioactivity and assessing tissue uptake. Plasma stability was measured using LC-MS. In vivo lipolysis was assessed by the palmitate rate of appearance. RESULTS A small single i.v. dose of [125I]TLQP-21 had a terminal half-life of 110 min with a terminal clearance rate constant, kt, of 0.0063/min, and an initial half-life of 0.97 min with an initial clearance rate constant, ki, of 0.71/min. The total net uptake by adipose tissue accounts for 4.4% of the entire dose equivalent while the liver, pancreas and adrenal gland showed higher uptake. Uptake by the brain was negligible, suggesting that i.v.-injected peptide does not cross the blood-brain-barrier. TLQP-21 sustained isoproterenol-stimulated lipolysis in vivo. Finally, TLQP-21 was rapidly degraded producing several N-terminal and central sequence fragments after 10 and 60 min in plasma in vitro. This study investigated the clearance and stability of TLQP-21 peptide for the first time. While its pro-lipolytic effect supports and extends previous findings, its short half-life and sequential cleavage in the plasma suggest strategies for chemical modifications in order to enhance its stability and therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- ZengKui Guo
- Mayo Foundation, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Bhavani S Sahu
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Rongjun He
- Novo Nordisk Research Center Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46241, USA
| | - Brian Finan
- Novo Nordisk Research Center Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46241, USA
| | - Cheryl Cero
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Raffaello Verardi
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Maria Razzoli
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Gianluigi Veglia
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | | | - John M Miles
- Mayo Foundation, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Alessandro Bartolomucci
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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