Wild-type Receptor Research Articles

Development of a hamster model of spontaneous hypertriglyceridemia in diabetes.

Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) often accompanies diabetes and is considered a risk factor for diabetic vascular complications. However, inducing diabetic HTG typically requires high-fat diets in certain animal models. Leveraging our newly developed LDL receptor knockout hamster model, which exhibits features akin to human lipid metabolism, we sought to determine whether these animals would develop HTG without dietary manipulations in diabetes. Diabetes was induced via intraperitoneal injection of STZ in wild type and heterozygous LDL receptor deficient hamsters. Blood glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol were measured over 60 days. Plasma TG clearance was determined via olive oil gavage. The effect of insulin on diabetic HTG was assessed on Day 60 post-diabetes induction. Blood glucose increased over threefold, while plasma insulin decreased to 30% of controls after STZ injection in both wild type and heterozygous hamsters by Day 7, remaining stable for 60 days. Plasma TG in wild-type hamsters remained unchanged at Day 7 post-STZ injection but increased slightly thereafter. Conversely, heterozygous hamsters exhibited severe HTG by Day 7 until the end of the study. Olive oil gavage revealed much slower plasma triglyceride clearance in heterozygous hamsters compared to WT animals, despite significantly reduced lipoprotein lipase activity in post-heparin plasma in both animals. Hyperglycemia and HTG in heterozygous hamsters were reversed to pre-diabetic levels following intraperitoneal insulin administration. In conclusion, severe HTG in diabetic heterozygous LDL receptor deficient hamsters developed spontaneously and was insulin-dependent. Thus, this hamster model holds promise for effectively studying the complications associated with human diabetic HTG.

Detailed functional characterization of four nanobodies as positive allosteric modulators of the human Calcium-Sensing receptor

The calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) plays a key role in calcium homeostasis, and small-molecule and peptide positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) of CaSR, so-called calcimimetics, are used in the treatment of hyperparathyroidism and hypocalcemic disorders. In this study, four monovalent nanobodies − representing four distinct nanobody families with CaSR PAM activity − were subjected to elaborate pharmacological profiling at the receptor. While Nb5 displayed negligible PAM activity at CaSR in all assays, Nb4, Nb10 and Nb45 all potently potentiated Ca2+-evoked signalling through a myc epitope-tagged CaSR expressed in HEK293 or HEK293T cells in Gαq and Gαi1 protein activation assays and in a Ca2+/Fluo-4 assay. Nb4 and Nb10 also displayed comparable PAM properties at a stable CaSR-HEK293 cell line in a Ca2+/Fura-2 imaging assay, but surprisingly Nb45 was completely inactive at this cell line in both the Ca2+/Fura-2 and Ca2+/Fluo-4 assays. Investigations into this binary difference in Nb45 activity revealed that the nanobody only possesses modulatory activity at CaSRs tagged N-terminally with various epitopes (myc, HA, Flag-SNAP), whereas it is inactive at the untagged wild-type receptor. In conclusion, overall each of the nanobodies exhibit similar CaSR PAM properties in a range of assays, and thus none of them display pathway bias as modulators. However, of the four nanobodies Nb4 and Nb10 would be applicable as pharmacological tools for the wild-type CaSR, and the complete inactivity of Nb45 at the untagged CaSR serves as an reminder that epitope-tagging of a receptor, even if deemed functionally silent, can have profound implications for ligand discovery efforts.

Exploring the molecular pathways of the activation process in PPARγ recurrent bladder cancer mutants.

The intricate involvement of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma (PPARγ) in glucose homeostasis and adipogenesis is well-established. However, its role in cancer, particularly luminal bladder cancer, remains debated. The overexpression and activation of PPARγ are implicated in tumorigenesis. Specific gain-of-function mutations (M280I, I290M, and T475M) within the ligand-binding domain of PPARγ are associated with bladder cancer and receptor activation. The underlying molecular pathways prompted by these mutations remain unclear. We employed a dual-basin structure-based model (db-SBM) to explore the conformational dynamics between the inactive and active states of PPARγ and examined the effects of the M280I, I290M, and T475M mutations. Our findings, consistent with the existing literature, reveal heightened ligand-independent transcriptional activity in the I290M and T475M mutants. Both mutants showed enhanced stabilization of the active state compared to the wild-type receptor, with the I290M mutation promoting a specific transition route, making it a prime candidate for further study. Electrostatic analysis identified residues K303 and E488 as pivotal in the I290M activation cascade. Biophysical assays confirmed that disrupting the K303-E488 interaction reduced the thermal stabilization characteristic of the I290M mutation. Our study demonstrates the predictive capabilities of combining simulation and cheminformatics methods, validated by biochemical experiments, to gain insights into molecular activation mechanisms and identify target residues for protein modulation.

Interleukin-1 receptor-dependent and -independent caspase-1 activity in retinal cells mediated by receptor interacting protein 2.

Inflammation and cell death play an important role in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy. Previously we observed sustained activation of pro-inflammatory caspase-1 in retinas of diabetic animals and patients. In this study, we aimed to look at mechanisms underlying chronic caspase-1 activation in vitro and in vivo. Non-diabetic and diabetic wild type and IL-1 receptor (IL-1R1) knockout mice were used for in vivo experiments. Diabetes was induced using STZ (streptozotocin). Human Müller cells were used for in vitro studies. Cells were treated with either 5mM or 25mM glucose or interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) in the presence or absence of IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) or siRNA against RIP2 (receptor interacting protein-2) for up to 96h. Outcome measurements to assess Müller cell functions included measurements of caspase-1 activity using a fluorescence peptide substrate, production of IL-1β by Elisa, and cell death using trypan blue exclusion assays. Our in vivo results demonstrate that caspase-1 activation progresses from an IL-1R1 independent mechanism at 10weeks of diabetes to an IL-1R1 dependent mechanism at 20weeks indicating that feedback through IL-1R1 is crucial for sustained caspase-1 activity in retinas of mice. A similar hyperglycemia-mediated caspase-1/IL-1β/IL-1R1 feedback signaling was detected in vitro in human Müller cells which was prevented by treatment with IL-1ra. Our data also indicate that hyperglycemia induces caspase-1 activation initially but IL-1β sustains caspase-1 activation via caspase-1/IL-1β/IL-1R1 feedback and we identified RIP2 as mediator for both hyperglycemia- and IL-1β-induced caspase-1 activation. Activation of caspase-1/IL-1β/IL-1R1 feedback signaling caused Müller cell death which was prevented by RIP2 knockdown. We conclude that any intervention in caspase-1/IL-1β/IL-1R1 feedback signaling presents novel therapeutic options for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy.

Tirzepatide, GIP(1-42) and GIP(1-30) display unique signaling profiles at two common GIP receptor variants, E354 and Q354.

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity are prevalent metabolic disorders affecting millions of individuals worldwide. A new effective therapeutic drug called tirzepatide for the treatment of obesity and T2D is a dual agonist of the GIP receptor and GLP-1 receptor. Tirzepatide is clinically more effective than GLP-1 receptor agonists but the reasons why are not well understood. Tirzepatide reportedly stimulates the GIP receptor more potently than the GLP-1 receptor. However, tirzepatide signaling has not been thoroughly investigated at the E354 (wildtype) or Q354 (E354Q) GIP receptor variants. The E354Q variant is associated increased risk of T2D and lower body mass index. To better understand GIP receptor signaling we characterized the activity of endogenous agonists and tirzepatide at both GIP receptor variants. Using Cos7 cells we examined wildtype and E354Q GIP receptor signaling, analyzing cAMP and IP1 accumulation as well as AKT, ERK1/2 and CREB phosphorylation. GIP(1-42) and GIP(1-30)NH2 displayed equipotent effects on these pathways excluding CREB phosphorylation where GIP(1-30)NH2 was more potent than GIP(1-42) at the E354Q GIP receptor. Tirzepatide favored cAMP signaling at both variants. These findings indicate that tirzepatide is a biased agonist towards Gαs signaling and suggests it equally activates the wildtype and E354Q GIP receptor variants. We also observed differences between the pharmacology of the GIP receptor variants with endogenous peptides, which may help to explain differences in phenotype. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of GIP receptor signaling, and will aid development of therapies combating T2D and obesity.

7297 Clinical Characterization Of FHH Patients With Functional Assessment Of Novel CaSR Variants

Abstract Disclosure: R. Tora: None. L. Canaff: None. J. Welch: None. L. Bliss: None. L.S. Weinstein: None. W.F. Simonds: None. S.K. Agarwal: None. J. Blau: None. D. Goltzman: None. S. Jha: None. Familial Hypocalciuric Hypercalcemia (FHH) is characterized by hypercalcemia and low urinary calcium excretion from birth and its diagnosis is confirmed by the presence of a pathogenic germline heterozygous variant in CaSR, AP2S1, or GNA11. Establishing the diagnosis is important as it prevents unnecessary parathyroidectomies as surgery is not curative. We identified patients with germline variants in CaSR, AP2S1, or GNA11 seen at our institute and performed a retrospective review of available clinical parameters. 43 patients (31 kindreds) with 28 unique CaSR variants (15 pathogenic, 13 variants of uncertain significance [VUS]) and one pathogenic AP2S1 variant were identified. Median age at diagnosis was 35 [IQR: 25 - 39] years, with the youngest patient diagnosed at 4.5 months. Median serum calcium was 10.70 [10.25 - 11.00] mg/dL (ref: 8.4 - 10.2) with a median PTH of 51.7 [35.8 - 74.0] pg/mL (ref: 15 - 65). The median fractional excretion of calcium (FECa) was 1.00 [0.54 - 1.40] while median serum magnesium was 2.30 [2.19 - 2.43] mg/dL (ref: 1.6 - 2.6). 5/43 (12%) patients developed kidney stones and 6/43 (14%) men ≤ 50 years and premenopausal women developed osteoporosis with median age at diagnosis of 38 [28.50 - 45.75] years and no alternate underlying secondary cause. Longitudinal follow-up available on 9/43 patients with median duration of 14.4 ± 4.5 years showed no significant changes in serum and urine biochemistries. 23/43 (53%) patients had undergone failed parathyroidectomy prior to diagnosis, of which 20/23 (87%) had multiple glands removed including one who became hypoparathyroid. Functional characterization was performed for 8/13 CaSR VUS (p.D217G, p.C546Y, p.F563S, p.C694Y, p.A880P, p.E109Q, p.D382N, and p.A880S) in HEK293 cells by examining intracellular Ca2+ and ERK/MAPK responses to extracellular Ca2+ using NFAT-Luc and SRE-Luc constructs, respectively. Compared to the wild type (WT) receptor, p.D217G, p.C546Y, p.F563S, and p.C694Y showed less of the cell-membrane-localized mature glycosylated species in Western blots and a significant rightward shift in their concentration-response curve in both SRE- and NFAT-Luc assays. p.A880P showed a significant rightward shift in its concentration-response curve, while p.E109Q, p.D382N, and p.A880S showed no differences on Western blot or concentration-response curves as compared to WT. Further work to characterize the remaining variants (p.T14A, p.T609M, p.V268_P278del, p.G36R, and p.F589V) is ongoing. We conclude that the diagnosis of FHH is frequently missed and that patients with the disease may rarely develop target organ damage. Presentation: 6/2/2024

8644 Dynamic Insights into Glucocorticoid Receptor Dysfunction: Novel patient-derived T437I Mutation and Its Impact on Glucocorticoid Receptor Function

Abstract Disclosure: T. Tettey: None. S. Kim: None. K. Wagh: None. Q. Lao: None. L.R. Schiltz: None. D.A. Stavreva: None. D.M. Presman: None. D.P. Merke: None. G.L. Hager: None. The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is a hormone regulated transcription factor which binds chromatin to regulate many genes, including stress-response and inflammatory genes. Dexamethasone, a GR agonist, is widely used in the treatment of severe inflammation, including COVID-19. GR is vital for life and several GR mutations have been linked to severe pathophysiological conditions. Here we report a novel mutation in the DNA binding domain (DBD) of GR (T437I) in a patient with partial glucocorticoid resistance, a rare genetic disorder characterized by generalized insensitivity to glucocorticoids and a consequent hyperactivation of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis. While the clinical manifestations of this hT437I GR mutation are apparent, its molecular mechanisms remain unexplored. Employing a comprehensive approach that integrates biophysical methods, molecular biology, and genomics, we investigate the molecular underpinnings of this genetic anomaly. Using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, we introduce GFP or Halo-tagged hT437I GR mutant into GR null mouse cells. Our findings indicate that the T437I GR variant exhibits normal hormone binding and nuclear translocation. Live-cell imaging using number and brightness analysis reveals that the mutant receptor maintains a wildtype-like oligomeric state but adopts a heterodimeric conformation in the presence of endogenous GR. Global transcriptomics analyses of the mouse hT437I mutant show that most dexamethasone-regulated genes are unresponsive following hormone treatment. We hypothesize that this mutation within the DBD compromises the binding of GR to regulatory sites of target genes. Leveraging fluorescence high-resolution microscopy, we employ single molecule tracking to study the dynamic behavior of Halo-tagged hT437I GR in mouse cells. Our results indicate that the GR mutant has a higher dwell-time on chromatin compared to the wild-type receptor. This suggests that the hT437I mutation impairs the receptor's binding to genomic sites, potentially leading to a failure in regulating GR target genes. This ongoing exploration of the molecular intricacies aims to deepen our understanding of the clinical phenotype observed in the patient. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Structural insights into conformational stability of both wild-type and mutant Insulin Receptor Gene

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) poses a health challenge. It can lead to complications such as heart disease, hypertension, heart failure, and stroke. Factors like obesity and lack of activity can contribute to insulin resistance. The insulin receptor gene (INSR) is responsible for producing insulin receptors. When this gene malfunctions, it can contribute to the development of T2D.In this study, we investigated the stability of the structure of variants of INSR using an extended molecular dynamics simulation and the perturbation effect of compound CheBI_88339 on the protein structure. During the analysis, we observed that all three systems—the wild-type INSR, the R1191Q variant, and the R1191Q variant bound to compound CheBI_88339 (R1191Q-D) reached equilibrium in 30ns without any instability. Throughout the simulation process, it was generally observed that the wild-type INSR exhibited higher stability than the R1191Q variant and R1191Q-D. The Root Mean Square Deviation (RMSD) and root-mean-square fluctuation (RMSF) of INSR, R1191Q and the variant bound to compound CheBI_88339 (R1191Q-D) are 9.28Å, 10.35Å, 8.65Å, 2.59Å, 2.98Å, and 2.89Å respectively.These values indicate that the mutated INSR introduced levels of deviations and flexibility in the protein structure. However, considering the variant bound to compound CheBI_88339 suggests that this drug may contribute to stabilizing the dynamics of the mutant protein. Overall, our findings shed light on the effect of genetic variants and their impact on protein stability. This research provides further insight into the dynamics of INSR and the potential of CheBI_88339 in targeting INSR. However, this study is computational, and further experimental studies are required.

Transgenic Drosophila Expressing Active Human LH Receptor in the Gonads Exhibit a Decreased Fecundity: Towards a Platform to Identify New Orally Active Modulators of Gonadotropin Receptor Activity.

The gonadotropins luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and their receptors are major regulators of reproduction in mammals and are absent in insects. We previously established transgenic Drosophila lines expressing a constitutively active human LH receptor variant (LHRD578Y) and the wild-type receptor (LHRwt; inactive in the absence of an agonist). That study showed that ubiquitously expression of LHRD578Y-but not of LHRwt-resulted in pupal lethality, and targeted expression in midline cells resulted in thorax/bristles defects. To further study the Drosophila model for an in vivo drug screening platform, we investigated here whether expressing LHRD578Y in the fly gonads alters reproduction, as shown in a transgenic mice model. The receptor was expressed in somatic cells of the gonads using the tissue-specific traffic jam-Gal4 driver. Western blot analysis confirmed receptor expression in the ovaries. A fecundity assay indicated that the ectopic expression of LHRD578Y resulted in a decrease in egg laying compared to control flies carrying, but not expressing the transgene (~40% decrease in two independent fly lines, p < 0.001). No significant reduction in the number of laid eggs was seen in flies expressing the LHRWT (<10% decrease compared to non-driven flies, p > 0.05). The decreased egg laying demonstrates a phenotype of the active receptor in the fly gonads, the prime target organs of the gonadotropins in mammals. We suggest that this versatile Drosophila model can be used for the pharmacological search for gonadotropin modulators. This is expected to provide: (a) new mimetic drug candidates (receptor-agonists/signaling-activators) for assisted reproduction treatment, (b) blockers for potential fertility regulation, and (c) leads relevant for the purpose of managing extra gonadotropic reported activities.

Heat-killed Lancefieldella Rimae Induces Bone Resorption by Promoting Osteoclast Differentiation

IntroductionApical periodontitis, mainly caused by bacterial infection in the dental pulp, is often accompanied by abscess, periapical inflammation, and alveolar bone loss. Lancefieldella rimae has been detected in the root canals of patients with apical periodontitis. Here, we investigated whether L. rimae is associated with bone resorption. MethodsL. rimae was anaerobically cultured and heat-killed (HKLr). A mouse calvarial implantation model was used to determine the bone resorption in vivo. Committed osteoclasts prepared from C57BL/6 wild-type or Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2)-deficient mice were differentiated into mature osteoclasts in the presence or absence of HKLr. The mRNA expression of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), ATPase H+ transporting V0 subunit D2, cathepsin K, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase was quantified using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The protein levels of c-Fos and NFATc1 were determined by Western blot analysis. ResultsImplantation of HKLr onto the mouse calvaria induced the bone destruction with an increase of TRAP-positive areas. While HKLr enhanced the differentiation of osteoclasts, this effect was not observed in TLR2-deficient osteoclasts. HKLr dose-dependently increased the mRNA expression of genes associated with osteoclast differentiation including TRAP, ATPase H+ transporting V0 subunit D2, and cathepsin K. In addition, HKLr enhanced the expression of c-Fos and NFATc1, which are important transcription factors for osteoclast differentiation. Moreover, HKLr increased the expression of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α. ConclusionL. rimae induces bone resorption by enhancing osteoclast differentiation through the TLR2 signaling pathway, implying that L. rimae is a causative agent responsible for the alveolar bone resorption accompanying apical periodontitis.

Chemogenetic Tools and their Use in Studies of Neuropsychiatric Disorders.

Chemogenetics is a newly developed set of tools that allow for selective manipulation of cell activity. They consist of a receptor mutated irresponsive to endogenous ligands and a synthetic ligand that does not interact with the wild-type receptors. Many different types of these receptors and their respective ligands for inhibiting or excitating neuronal subpopulations were designed in the past few decades. It has been mainly the G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) selectively responding to clozapine-N-oxide (CNO), namely Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADDs), that have been employed in research. Chemogenetics offers great possibilities since the activity of the receptors is reversible, inducible on demand by the ligand, and non-invasive. Also, specific groups or types of neurons can be selectively manipulated thanks to the delivery by viral vectors. The effect of the chemogenetic receptors on neurons lasts longer, and even chronic activation can be achieved. That can be useful for behavioral testing. The great advantage of chemogenetic tools is especially apparent in research on brain diseases since they can manipulate whole neuronal circuits and connections between different brain areas. Many psychiatric or other brain diseases revolve around the dysfunction of specific brain networks. Therefore, chemogenetics presents a powerful tool for investigating the underlying mechanisms causing the disease and revealing the link between the circuit dysfunction and the behavioral or cognitive symptoms observed in patients. It could also contribute to the development of more effective treatments.

Sigma-1 Receptors Control Neuropathic Pain and Peripheral Neuroinflammation After Nerve Injury in Female Mice: A Transcriptomic Study.

The mechanisms for neuropathic pain amelioration by sigma-1 receptor inhibition are not fully understood. We studied genome-wide transcriptomic changes (RNAseq) in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) from wild-type and sigma-1 receptor knockout mice prior to and following Spared Nerve Injury (SNI). In wildtype mice, most of the transcriptomic changes following SNI are related to the immune function or neurotransmission. Immune function transcripts contain cytokines and markers for immune cells, including macrophages/monocytes and CD4 + T cells. Many of these immune transcripts were attenuated by sigma-1 knockout in response to SNI. Consistent with this we found, using flow cytometry, that sigma-1 knockout mice showed a reduction in macrophage/monocyte recruitment as well as an absence of CD4 + T cell recruitment in the DRG after nerve injury. Sigma-1 knockout mice showed a reduction of neuropathic (mechanical and cold) allodynia and spontaneous pain-like responses (licking of the injured paw) which accompany the decreased peripheral neuroinflammatory response after nerve injury. Treatment with maraviroc (a CCR5 antagonist which preferentially inhibits CD4 + T cells in the periphery) of neuropathic wild-type mice only partially replicated the sigma-1 knockout phenotype, as it did not alter cold allodynia but attenuated spontaneous pain-like responses and mechanical hypersensitivity. Therefore, modulation of peripheral CD4 + T cell activity might contribute to the amelioration of spontaneous pain and neuropathic tactile allodynia seen in the sigma-1 receptor knockout mice, but not to the effect on cold allodynia. We conclude that sigma-1 receptor inhibition decreases DRG neuroinflammation which might partially explain its anti-neuropathic effect.

Huperzine a ameliorates sepsis-induced acute lung injury by suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress via α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor

Sepsis, characterized by high mortality rates, causes over 50 % of acute lung injury (ALI) cases, primarily due to the heightened susceptibility of the lungs during this condition. Suppression of the excessive inflammatory response is critical for improving the survival of patients with sepsis; nevertheless, no specific anti-sepsis drugs exist. Huperzine A (HupA) exhibits neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties; however, its underlying mechanisms and effects on sepsis-induced ALI have yet to be elucidated. In this study, we demonstrated the potential of HupA for treating sepsis and explored its mechanism of action. To investigate the in vivo impacts of HupA, a murine model of sepsis was induced through cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in both wild-type (WT) and α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) knockout mice. Our results showed that HupA ameliorates sepsis-induced acute lung injury by activating the α7nAChR. We used the CLP sepsis model in wild-type and α7nAChR −/− mice and found that HupA significantly increased the survival rate through α7nAChR, reduced the pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and oxidative stress, ameliorated histopathological lung injury, altered the circulating immune cell composition, regulated gut microbiota, and promoted short-chain fatty acid production through α7nAChR in vivo. Additionally, HupA inhibited Toll-like receptor NF-κB signaling by upregulating the α7nAChR/protein kinase B/glycogen synthase kinase-3 pathways. Our data elucidate HupA’s mechanism of action and support a “new use for an old drug” in treating sepsis. Our findings serve as a basis for further in vivo studies of this drug, followed by application to humans. Therefore, the findings have the potential to benefit patients with sepsis.

Transcriptomic profiling of the oocyte-cumulus-granulosa cell complex from estrogen receptor β knockout mice

To study the role of estrogen receptor beta in follicle development and maturation and in the response to gonadotropin stimulation aiming at superovulation DESIGN: Experimental study and transcriptomic analysis. Healthy wild-type and estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) knockout female mice undergoing superovulation at 4-weeks, 7-weeks, and 6-months of age. Oocyte yield after superovulation, transcriptomic profiling of cumulus-granulosa cell complexes and oocytes, and immunohistochemical analyses. Superovulation of ERβ knockout (Esr2-KO) mice resulted in reduced oocyte yield at 6-months of age compared to wild-type (WT) mice, but younger mice had similar yields. RNA-seq analysis of cumulus cells from superovulated WT and Esr2-KO mice identified genes and pathways associated with among others adhesion, proliferation, Wnt-signaling, and placed ERβ in bipotential granulosa cell cluster. Loss of ERβ increased expression of the other estrogen receptors Esr1 and Gper1. Our results show that ERβ has an important role in regulating ovulation in response to exogenous gonadotropins in 6-month-old mice, but not in younger mice. Our transcriptomic and immunohistochemical observations suggest a dysregulation of the granulosa cell communication and lack of tight coordination between granulosa cell replication and antrum expansion. A significant upregulation of other estrogen receptors may support a compensatory mechanism sustaining fertility during younger age in Esr2-KO mice.

Design, Synthesis, and Characterization of New δ Opioid Receptor-Selective Fluorescent Probes and Applications in Single-Molecule Microscopy of Wild-Type Receptors.

The delta opioid receptor (δOR or DOR) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) showing a promising profile as a drug target for nociception and analgesia. Herein, we design and synthesize new fluorescent antagonist probes with high δOR selectivity that are ideally suited for single-molecule microscopy (SMM) applications in unmodified, untagged receptors. Using our new probes, we investigated wild-type δOR localization and mobility at low physiological receptor densities for the first time. Furthermore, we investigate the potential formation of δOR homodimers, as such a receptor organization might exhibit distinct pharmacological activity, potentially paving the way for innovative pharmacological therapies. Our findings indicate that the majority of δORs labeled with these probes exist as freely diffusing monomers on the cell surface in a simple cell model. This discovery advances our understanding of OR behavior and offers potential implications for future therapeutic research.

The open field assay is influenced by room temperature and by drugs that affect core body temperature

Background The open field assay is used to study anxiety-related traits and anxiolytic drugs in rodents. This assay entails measuring locomotor activity and time spent in the center of a chamber that is maintained at ambient room temperature. However, the ambient temperature in most laboratories varies daily and seasonally and can differ between buildings. We sought to evaluate how varying ambient temperature and core body temperature (CBT) affected open field locomotor activity and center time of male wild-type (WT, C57BL/6) and Transient Receptor Potential Subfamily M Member 8 (Trpm8) knock-out (Trpm8-/- ) mice. TRPM8 is an ion channel that detects cool temperatures and is activated by icilin. Methods Mice were placed in the open field at 4°C and 23°C for 1 hour. Distance traveled and time spent in the center were measured. Mice were injected with icilin, M8-B, diazepam, or saline, and changes in activity level were recorded. Results The cooling agent icilin increased CBT and profoundly reduced distance traveled and center time of WT mice relative to controls. Likewise, cooling the ambient temperature to 4°C reduced distance traveled and center time of WT mice relative to Trpm8-/- mice. Conversely, the TRPM8 antagonist (M8-B) reduced CBT and increased distance traveled and center time of WT mice when tested at 4°C. The TRPM8 antagonist (M8-B) had no effect on CBT or open field behavior of Trpm8-/- mice. The anxiolytic diazepam reduced CBT in WT and Trpm8-/- mice. When tested at 4°C, diazepam increased distance traveled and center time in WT mice but did not alter open field behavior of Trpm8-/- mice. Conclusions Environmental temperature and drugs that affect CBT can influence locomotor behavior and center time in the open field assay, highlighting temperature (ambient and core) as sources of environmental and physiologic variability in this commonly used behavioral assay.

Subconjunctival Administration of an Adeno-Associated Virus Expressing Stanniocalcin-1 Provides Sustained Intraocular Pressure Reduction in Mice

PurposeTo investigate subconjunctival administration of a single-stranded, adeno-associated virus, serotype 2, engineered to express Stanniocalcin-1 with a FLAG tag (ssAAV2-STC-1-FLAG) as a novel sustained intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering agent with a reduced ocular surface side effect profile. DesignIn vivo pre-clinical investigation in mice SubjectsC57BL/6J, DBA/2J, FP receptor knockout mice MethodsNormotensive C57BL/6J mice were treated with a subconjunctival injection of ssAAV2-STC-1-FLAG (2 μL; 6 x 109 viral genomes [VGs]) in one eye and the same volume and concentration of ssAAV2-GFP or the same volume of PBS in the fellow eye. Ocular hypertensive DBA/2J mice were subconjunctivally injected with 6 x 109 VGs of ssAAV2-STC-1-FLAG or ssAAV2-GFP. Steroid-mediated ocular hypertension was induced in C57BL/6J mice with weekly injections of dexamethasone into the conjunctival fornix, and mice were then injected subconjunctivally with 6 x 109 VGs of ssAAV2-STC-1-FLAG or ssAAV2-GFP. FP receptor knockout mice were injected subconjunctivally with 6 x 109 VGs of ssAAV2-STC-1-FLAG or PBS. An identical vector was constructed without the FLAG tag (ssAAV2-STC-1) and evaluated in normotensive C57BL/6J mice. IOP was assessed using the Tonolab tonometer for all experiments. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), a marker of ocular surface inflammation, was compared between subconjunctivally delivered ssAAV2-STC-1 and other treatments including daily topical latanoprost. Main outcome measuresIOP assessment ResultsSubconjunctival delivery of ssAAV2-STC-1-FLAG significantly reduced IOP for 10 weeks post injection in normotensive mice. Maximal IOP reduction was seen at week 2 post injection (17.4%; 17.1 ± 0.8 vs 14.1 ± 0.8 mmHg, P<0.001). After the IOP-lowering effect had waned, a second injection restored the ocular hypotensive effect. Subconjunctivally delivered ssAAV2-STC-1-FLAG lowered IOP in DBA/2J mice (16.9%; 17.8 ± 2.0 vs 14.8 ± 0.9 mmHg, P<0.001) and steroid-mediated ocular hypertensive mice (19.4%; 18.7 ±0.9 vs 15.1 ± 0.5 mmHg, P<0.001) over the experimental period. This construct also reduced IOP to a similar extent in wild type (15.9%) and FP receptor knockout (15.7%) mice compared to the fellow eye. A related construct also lowered IOP without the FLAG tag in a similar manner. Reduction in conjunctival TNFα was seen when comparing subconjunctivally delivered ssAAV2-STC-1-FLAG to daily topical latanoprost. ConclusionsSubconjunctival delivery of the STC-1 transgene with a vector system may represent a novel treatment strategy for sustained IOP reduction and improved ocular tolerability that also avoids the daily dosing requirements of currently available medications.

Therapeutic application of extracellular vesicular EGFR isoform D as a co-drug to target squamous cell cancers with tyrosine kinase inhibitors

Targeting wild-type epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) using tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) never achieved its purported success in cancers such as head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, which are largely EGFR-dependent. We had previously shown that exceptional responders to TKIs have a genetic aberration that results in overexpression of an EGFR splice variant, isoform D (IsoD). IsoD lacks an integral transmembrane and kinase domain and is secreted in extracellular vesicles (EVs) in TKI-sensitive patient-derived cultures. Remarkably, the exquisite sensitivity to TKIs could be transferred to TKI-resistant tumor cells, and IsoD protein in the EV is necessary and sufficient to transfer the phenotype invitro and invivo across multiple models and drugs. This drug response requires an intact endocytic mechanism, binding to full-length EGFR, and signaling through Src-phosphorylation within the endosomal compartment. We propose a therapeutic strategy using EVs containing EGFR IsoD as a co-drug to expand the use of TKI therapy to EGFR-driven cancers.

The P2X7 Hypothesis of Central Post-Stroke Pain.

The present study examined how P2X7 receptor knockout (KO) modulates central post-stroke pain (CPSP) induced by lesions of the ventrobasal complex (VBC) of the thalamus in behaviors, molecular levels, and electrical recording tests. Following the experimental procedure, the wild-type and P2X7 receptor KO mice were injected with 10 mU/0.2 μL type IV collagenase in the VBC of the thalamus to induce an animal model of stroke-like thalamic hemorrhage. Behavioral data showed that the CPSP group induced thermal and mechanical pain. The P2X7 receptor KO group showed reduced thermal and mechanical pain responses compared to the CPSP group. Molecular assessments revealed that the CPSP group had lower expression of NeuN and KCC2 and higher expression of GFAP, IBA1, and BDNF. The P2X7 KO group showed lower expression of GFAP, IBA1, and BDNF but nonsignificant differences in KCC2 expression than the CPSP group. The expression of NKCC1, GABAa receptor, and TrkB did not differ significantly between the control, CPSP, and P2X7 receptor KO groups. Muscimol, a GABAa agonist, application increased multiunit numbers for monitoring many neurons and [Cl-] outflux in the cytosol in the CPSP group, while P2X7 receptor KO reduced multiunit activity and increased [Cl-] influx compared to the CPSP group. P2X4 receptor expression was significantly decreased in the 100 kDa but not the 50 kDa site in the P2X7 receptor KO group. Altogether, the P2X7 hypothesis of CPSP was proposed, wherein P2X7 receptor KO altered the CPSP pain responses, numbers of astrocytes and microglia, CSD amplitude of the anterior cingulate cortex and the medial dorsal thalamus, BDNF expression, [Cl-] influx, and P2X4 expression in 100 kDa with P2X7 receptors. The present findings have implications for the clinical treatment of CPSP symptoms.

Sex differences in cardiac ferroptosis after acute myocardial infarction in wild type and aryl hydrocarbon receptor knockout mice

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – EU funding. Main funding source(s): MICIN/Agencia Estatal de Investigación (DOI: 10.13039/50110001103) (NextGeneration, EU/PRTR) Background and Purpose Ferroptosis is a new regulated programmed cell death pathway, driven by iron-dependent phospholipid peroxidation, that plays an important role in the development of cardiovascular diseases. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor of the basic Helix-Loop-Helix-PER-ARNT-SIM superfamily. Upon ligand binding, AhR translocates into the nucleus and dimerizes with the AhR nuclear translocator; the heterodimer then binds to dioxin-response elements located in the promoter region of receptor-regulated genes, most of which are involved in xenobiotic metabolism. Beyond its role in metabolizing exogenous toxins as part of an adaptive chemical response, it is well known that AhR is activated by endogenous ligands and it has been postulated that AhR has important functions in physiological and/or pathological conditions. Here we studied sex differences in cardiac ferroptosis after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in mice and the implication of defective AhR signalling on this process. Methods and Results AMI was induced in 8–10-weeks-old males and females AhR+/+ and AhR-/- mice by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. Animal care and experimental procedures followed the principles of animal care (NIH publication Nº85-23 revised 1985) and the guidelines for ethical care of experimental animals of the European Union (2010/63/EU). Survival analysis showed that 16% of AhR+/+male mice and 14% of AhR+/+ female mice died 72 h after AMI surgery whereas the mortality was 100% in AhR-/-male mice and only 17% in AhR-/- female mice group. The treatment of AhR-/- AMI male mice with ferrostatin (1 mg/kg i.p) increased survival to 40%. Immunofluorescence analysis of cardiac staining levels of 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine revealed higher oxidative stress in AhR+/+AMI male mice compared with AhR+/+AMI females, 24 h after surgery. The absence of AhR in AMI males showed an increased oxidative stress that was similar to that obtained in AMI AhR+/+ males but significantly greater than that observed in AhR-/- AMI females. Finally, analysis of differential expressions of classical genes related to ferroptosis in AhR-/- AMI male and AMI female mice, 24 h after surgery, showed, only in males, a reduced expression of ferritin heavy chain 1 and ferroportin, and an increased expression of phospholipase A2. Conclusion Our results show that loss of AhR in males but not in females favours the ferroptosis process associated with myocardial ischemia, highlighting a possible role for this nuclear receptor in cardiac remodelling and survival after AMI.