Rearrangement of the transmembrane domain interfaces associated with the activation of a GPCR hetero-oligomer

Nat Commun. 2019 Jun 24;10(1):2765. doi: 10.1038/s41467-019-10834-5.

Abstract

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) can integrate extracellular signals via allosteric interactions within dimers and higher-order oligomers. However, the structural bases of these interactions remain unclear. Here, we use the GABAB receptor heterodimer as a model as it forms large complexes in the brain. It is subjected to genetic mutations mainly affecting transmembrane 6 (TM6) and involved in human diseases. By cross-linking, we identify the transmembrane interfaces involved in GABAB1-GABAB2, as well as GABAB1-GABAB1 interactions. Our data are consistent with an oligomer made of a row of GABAB1. We bring evidence that agonist activation induces a concerted rearrangement of the various interfaces. While the GB1-GB2 interface is proposed to involve TM5 in the inactive state, cross-linking of TM6s lead to constitutive activity. These data bring insight for our understanding of the allosteric interaction between GPCRs within oligomers.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Allosteric Regulation / drug effects
  • Allosteric Regulation / physiology
  • Allosteric Site / drug effects
  • Allosteric Site / physiology
  • Cross-Linking Reagents / chemistry
  • GABA-B Receptor Agonists / pharmacology
  • HEK293 Cells
  • Humans
  • Models, Molecular*
  • Protein Binding / drug effects
  • Protein Binding / physiology
  • Protein Domains / drug effects
  • Protein Domains / physiology*
  • Protein Multimerization / drug effects
  • Protein Multimerization / physiology*
  • Receptors, GABA-B / metabolism*
  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid / metabolism

Substances

  • Cross-Linking Reagents
  • GABA-B Receptor Agonists
  • Receptors, GABA-B
  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid