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

Xue, Li; Sun, Qian; Zhao, Han; Rovira, Xavier; Gai, Siyu; He, Qianwen; Pin, Jean-Philippe; Liu, Jianfeng et al. · Nat Commun · 2019

basic_science · Level V

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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 GABA<sub>B</sub> 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 GABA<sub>B1</sub>-GABA<sub>B2</sub>, as well as GABA<sub>B1</sub>-GABA<sub>B1</sub> interactions. Our data are consistent with an oligomer made of a row of GABA<sub>B1</sub>. 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.

Medical subject headings