G Protein–Coupled Receptor Kinase Mediates Desensitization of Norepinephrine-Induced Ca2+ Channel Inhibition

Abstract

G protein–coupled receptors are essential signaling molecules at sites of synaptic transmission. Here, we explore the mechanisms responsible for the use- dependent termination of metabotropic receptor signaling in embryonic sensory neurons. We report that the inhibition of voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels mediated by α2-adrenergic receptors desensitizes slowly with prolonged exposure to the transmitter and that the desensitization is mediated by a G protein–coupled receptor kinase (GRK). Intracellular introduction of recombinant, purified kinases or synthetic blocking peptides into individual neurons demonstrates the specific involvement of a GRK3-like protein. These results suggest that GRK-mediated termination of receptor–G protein coupling is likely to regulate synaptic strength and, as such, may provide one effective mechanism for depression of synaptic transmission.