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John R. Hepler - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • RGS14 modulates locomotor behavior and erk signaling induced by environmental novelty and cocaine within discrete limbic structures
    Psychopharmacology, 2021
    Co-Authors: Stephanie L Foster, John R. Hepler, Daniel Lustberg, Nicholas H Harbin, Sara N Bramlett, David Weinshenker
    Abstract:

    In rodents, exposure to novel environments or psychostimulants promotes locomotion. Indeed, locomotor reactivity to novelty strongly predicts behavioral responses to psychostimulants in animal models of addiction. RGS14 is a plasticity-restricting protein with unique functional domains that enable it to suppress ERK-dependent signaling as well as regulate G protein activity. Although recent studies show that RGS14 is expressed in multiple limbic regions implicated in psychostimulant- and novelty-induced hyperlocomotion, its function has been examined mostly in the context of hippocampal physiology and memory. We investigated whether RGS14 modulates novelty- and cocaine-induced locomotion (NIL and CIL, respectively) and neuronal activity. We assessed RGS14 knockout (RGS14 KO) mice and wild-type (WT) littermate controls using NIL and CIL behavioral tests, followed by quantification of c-fos and phosphorylated ERK (pERK) induction in limbic regions that normally express RGS14. RGS14 KO mice were less active than WT controls in the NIL test, driven by avoidance of the center of the novel environment. By contrast, RGS14 KO mice demonstrated augmented peripheral locomotion in the CIL test conducted in either a familiar or novel environment. RGS14 KO mice exhibited increased thigmotaxis, as well as greater c-fos and pERK induction in the central amygdala and dorsal hippocampus, when cocaine and novelty were paired. RGS14 KO mice exhibited anti-correlated locomotor responses to novelty and cocaine, but displayed increased thigmotaxis in response to either stimuli which was augmented by their combination. Our findings also suggest RGS14 may reduce neuronal activity in limbic subregions by inhibiting ERK-dependent signaling.

  • RGS14 regulation of post synaptic signaling and spine plasticity in brain
    International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2021
    Co-Authors: Nicholas H Harbin, Sara N Bramlett, Carolina Montanezmiranda, Gizem Terzioglu, John R. Hepler
    Abstract:

    The regulator of G-protein signaling 14 (RGS14) is a multifunctional signaling protein that regulates post synaptic plasticity in neurons. RGS14 is expressed in the brain regions essential for learning, memory, emotion, and stimulus-induced behaviors, including the basal ganglia, limbic system, and cortex. Behaviorally, RGS14 regulates spatial and object memory, female-specific responses to cued fear conditioning, and environmental- and psychostimulant-induced locomotion. At the cellular level, RGS14 acts as a scaffolding protein that integrates G protein, Ras/ERK, and calcium/calmodulin signaling pathways essential for spine plasticity and cell signaling, allowing RGS14 to naturally suppress long-term potentiation (LTP) and structural plasticity in hippocampal area CA2 pyramidal cells. Recent proteomics findings indicate that RGS14 also engages the actomyosin system in the brain, perhaps to impact spine morphogenesis. Of note, RGS14 is also a nucleocytoplasmic shuttling protein, where its role in the nucleus remains uncertain. Balanced nuclear import/export and dendritic spine localization are likely essential for RGS14 neuronal functions as a regulator of synaptic plasticity. Supporting this idea, human genetic variants disrupting RGS14 localization also disrupt RGS14’s effects on plasticity. This review will focus on the known and unexplored roles of RGS14 in cell signaling, physiology, disease and behavior.

  • RGS14 modulates locomotor behavior and erk signaling induced by environmental novelty and cocaine within discrete limbic structures
    bioRxiv, 2021
    Co-Authors: Stephanie L Foster, John R. Hepler, Daniel Lustberg, Nicholas H Harbin, Sara N Bramlett, David Weinshenker
    Abstract:

    Rationale: In rodents, exposure to novel environments or psychostimulants promotes locomotor activity. Indeed, locomotor reactivity to novelty strongly predicts behavioral responses to psychostimulants in animal models of addiction. RGS14 is a plasticity restricting protein with unique functional domains that enable it to suppress ERK-dependent signaling as well as regulate G protein activity. Although recent studies show that RGS14 is expressed in multiple limbic regions implicated in psychostimulant- and novelty-induced hyperlocomotion, its function has been studied almost entirely in the context of hippocampal physiology and hippocampus-dependent behaviors. Objective: We sought to determine whether RGS14 modulates novelty- and psychostimulant-induced locomotion and neuronal activity. Methods: We assessed RGS14 knockout (RGS14 KO) mice and wild-type (WT) littermate controls using novelty-induced locomotion (NIL) and cocaine-induced locomotion (CIL) behavioral tests with subsequent quantification of c-fos and phosphorylated ERK (pERK) induction in limbic regions that express RGS14. Results: Compared to WT controls, RGS14 KO mice exhibited attenuated locomotor responses in the NIL test, driven by avoidance of the center of the novel environment. By contrast, RGS14 KO mice demonstrated augmented peripheral locomotion in the CIL test conducted in either a familiar or novel environment. The absence of RGS14 enhanced induction of c-fos and pERK in the central amygdala and hippocampus (areas CA1 and CA2) when cocaine was administered in a novel environment. Conclusions: RGS14 regulates novelty- and psychostimulant-induced hyperlocomotion, particularly with respect to thigmotaxis. Further, our findings suggest RGS14 may reduce neuronal activity in discrete limbic subregions by inhibiting ERK-dependent signaling and transcription.

  • genetic variants disrupt human RGS14 binding to nherf1 and regulation of npt2a mediated phosphate transport
    bioRxiv, 2019
    Co-Authors: Peter A Friedman, Katherine E. Squires, Tatyana Mamonova, Clara E Magyar, Bruce W Sneddon, David R Emlet, John R. Hepler
    Abstract:

    RGS14 is a multifunctional scaffolding protein that integrates G protein, MAPK, and Ca++/CaM signaling pathways. RGS14 contains an RGS domain, tandem Ras/Rap-binding domains, and a G protein regulatory motif. Human/primate RGS14 differ from rodent proteins by possessing a carboxy-terminal extension encoding a Type I PDZ ligand. RGS14 has been implicated in disordered phosphate metabolism. The human RGS14 gene is adjacent to SLC34A1 that encodes the NPT2A sodium-phosphate cotransporter. Hormone-regulated NPT2A requires the PDZ protein NHERF1 which contains two PDZ domains (PDZ1 and PDZ2). NHERF1 binds the PDZ ligand carboxy tail of NPT2A to regulate phosphate uptake, and this NPT2A:NHERF1 complex is inhibited by parathyroid hormone (PTH). Studies here define roles for RGS14 in NHERF1-dependent, PTH-sensitive phosphate transport. We found that RGS14 binds to NHERF1 via the PDZ2 domain. PTH inhibits NPT2A-mediated phosphate transport and RGS14 blocked this action. Several rare human mutations have been reported in the RGS14 PDZ ligand located at residues 563 (D563N, D563G) and 565 (A565S, A565V). D563N disrupted RGS14 binding to NHERF1 and did not interfere with PTH action, whereas D563G, A565S, and A565V bound NHERF1 and were functionally equivalent to wild-type RGS14. Computational analysis and molecular dynamics modeling of NHERF1 PDZ2 binding to the RGS14 C-terminal PDZ ligands refined the structural determinants of this interaction. Additional studies demonstrated that RGS14 is expressed in human kidney proximal and distal tubule cells. Together, our findings are consistent with the view that RGS14 contributes to PTH-sensitive phosphate transport in humans. RGS14 coding variants may cause disordered phosphate metabolism.

  • 14 3 3γ binds regulator of g protein signaling 14 RGS14 at distinct sites to inhibit the RGS14 gαi alf4 signaling complex and RGS14 nuclear localization
    Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2018
    Co-Authors: Kyle J Gerber, Katherine E. Squires, John R. Hepler
    Abstract:

    Regulator of G protein signaling 14 (RGS14) is a multifunctional brain scaffolding protein that integrates G protein and Ras/ERK signaling pathways. It is also a nucleocytoplasmic shuttling protein. RGS14 binds active Gαi/o via its RGS domain, Raf and active H-Ras–GTP via its R1 Ras-binding domain (RBD), and inactive Gαi1/3 via its G protein regulatory (GPR) domain. RGS14 suppresses long-term potentiation (LTP) in the CA2 region of the hippocampus, thereby regulating hippocampally based learning and memory. The 14-3-3 family of proteins is necessary for hippocampal LTP and associative learning and memory. Here, we show direct interaction between RGS14 and 14-3-3γ at two distinct sties, one phosphorylation-independent and the other phosphorylation-dependent at Ser-218 that is markedly potentiated by signaling downstream of active H-Ras. Using bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET), we show that the pSer-218–dependent RGS14/14-3-3γ interaction inhibits active Gαi1–AlF4− binding to the RGS domain of RGS14 but has no effect on active H-Ras and inactive Gαi1–GDP binding to RGS14. By contrast, the phosphorylation-independent binding of 14-3-3 has no effect on RGS14/Gαi interactions but, instead, inhibits (directly or indirectly) RGS14 nuclear import and nucleocytoplasmic shuttling. Together, our findings describe a novel mechanism of negative regulation of RGS14 functions, specifically interactions with active Gαi and nuclear import, while leaving the function of other RGS14 domains intact. Ongoing studies will further elucidate the physiological function of this interaction between RGS14 and 14-3-3γ, providing insight into the functions of both RGS14 and 14-3-3 in their roles in modulating synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus.

David P Siderovski - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • the effect of rgs12 on pdgfβ receptor signalling to p42 p44 mitogen activated protein kinase in mammalian cells
    Cellular Signalling, 2006
    Co-Authors: Balwinder Sambi, David P Siderovski, Francis S. Willard, Melinda D. Hains, Catherine M. Waters, Michelle Connell, Adam J. Kimple, Susan Pyne, Nigel J. Pyne
    Abstract:

    We have previously shown that the PDGFβ receptor uses a classical GPCR-mediated pathway in order to induce efficient activation of p42/p44 MAPK in response to PDGF. We therefore, considered the possibility that GTPase accelerating proteins (RGS proteins), which regulate GPCR signalling, modulate PDGFβ receptor-mediated signal transmission. Several lines of evidence were obtained to support functional interaction between the PDGFβ receptor and RGS12 in HEK 293 and airway smooth muscle cells. Firstly, the over-expression of the RGS12 PDZ/PTB domain N-terminus or RGS12 PTB domain reduced the PDGF-induced activation of p42/p44 MAPK. Secondly, the RGS12 PDZ/PTB domain N-terminus and RGS12 PDZ domain can form a complex with the PDGFβ receptor. Therefore, the results presented here provide the first evidence to support the concept that the PDZ/PTB domain N-terminus and/or the PTB domain of RGS12 may modulate PDGFβ receptor signalling. In airway smooth muscle cells, over-expressed recombinant RGS12 and the isolated PDZ/PTB domain N-terminus co-localised with PDGFβ receptor in cytoplasmic vesicles. To provide additional evidence for a role of the PDZ/PTB domain N-terminus, we used RGS14. RGS14 has the same C-terminal domain architecture of an RGS box, tandem Ras-binding domains (RBDs) and GoLoco motif as RGS12, but lacks the PDZ/PTB domain N-terminus. In this regard, RGS14 exhibited a different sub-cellular distribution compared with RGS12, being diffusely distributed in ASM cells. These findings suggest that RGS12 via its PDZ/PTB domain N-terminus may regulate trafficking of the PDGFβ receptor in ASM cells.

  • RGS14 is a Microtubule-Associated Protein
    Cell cycle (Georgetown Tex.), 2005
    Co-Authors: Luke Martin-mccaffrey, David P Siderovski, Francis S. Willard, Agnieszka Pajak, Lina Dagnino, Sudhir J. A. D'souza
    Abstract:

    Heterotrimeric G-proteins and their regulators are emerging as important players in modulating microtubule polymerization dynamics and in spindle force generation during cell division in C. elegans, D. melanogaster and mammals. We recently demonstrated that RGS14 is required for completion of the first mitotic division of the mouse embryo, and that it regulates microtubule organization in vivo. Here, we demonstrate that RGS14 is a microtubule-associated protein and a component of the mitotic spindle that may regulate microtubule polymerization and spindle organization. Taxol-stabilized tubulin, but not depolymerized tubulin coimmunoprecipitates with RGS14 from cell extracts. Furthermore, RGS14 copurifies with tubulin from porcine brain following multiple rounds of microtubule polymerization/depolymerization and binds directly to microtubules formed in vitro from pure tubulin (KD = 1.3 +/- 0.3 microM). Both RGS14 and Galpha(i1) in the presence of exogenous GTP promote tubulin polymerization, which is dependent on additional microtubule-associated proteins. However, preincubation of RGS14 with Galpha(i1)-GDP precludes either from promoting microtubule polymerization, suggesting that a functional GTP/GDP cycle is necessary. Finally, we show that RGS14 is a component of mitotic asters formed in vitro from HeLa cell extracts and that depletion of RGS14 from cell extracts blocks aster formation. Collectively, these results show that RGS14 is a microtubule-associated protein that may modulate microtubule dynamics and spindle formation.

  • Return of the GDI: The GoLoco Motif in Cell Division
    Annual review of biochemistry, 2004
    Co-Authors: Francis S. Willard, Randall J Kimple, David P Siderovski
    Abstract:

    The GoLoco motif is a 19-amino-acid sequence with guanine nucleotide dissociation inhibitor activity against G-alpha subunits of the adenylyl-cyclase-inhibitory subclass. The GoLoco motif is present as an independent element within multidomain signaling regulators, such as Loco, RGS12, RGS14, and Rap1GAP, as well as in tandem arrays in proteins, such as AGS3, G18, LGN, Pcp-2/L7, and Partner of Inscuteable (Pins/Rapsynoid). Here we discuss the biochemical mechanisms of GoLoco motif action on G-alpha subunits in light of the recent crystal structure of G-alpha-i1 bound to the RGS14 GoLoco motif. Currently, there is sparse evidence for GoLoco motif regulation of canonical G-protein-coupled receptor signaling. Rather, studies of asymmetric cell division in Drosophila and Caenorhabditis elegans, as well as mammalian mitosis, implicate GoLoco proteins, such as Pins, GPR-1/GPR-2, LGN, and RGS14, in mitotic spindle organization and force generation. We discuss potential mechanisms by which GoLoco/Galpha complexes might modulate spindle dynamics.

  • Purification and in vitro functional analyses of RGS12 and RGS14 GoLoco motif peptides
    Methods in enzymology, 2004
    Co-Authors: Randall J Kimple, Francis S. Willard, David P Siderovski
    Abstract:

    The GoLoco motif is a short polypeptide sequence that binds to heterotrimeric G-protein alpha subunits of the adenylyl cyclase-inhibitory (Galpha(i/o)) subclass in a nucleotide-dependent manner (i.e., solely to the GDP-bound ground state). This article describes methods used for the expression, purification, and in vitro evaluation of membrane-permeant tag fusion peptides derived from the GoLoco motif regions of "regulator of G-protein signaling" proteins type 12 (RGS12) and 14 (RGS14) and a consensus GoLoco sequence from the multiple GoLoco motif protein AGS3. Three different fluorescence-based assays are described for evaluating the in vitro function of these GoLoco peptides as guanine nucleotide dissociation inhibitors, including measurements of GTPgammaS binding and Galpha subunit activation by the planar ion aluminum tetrafluoride.

  • rgs12 and RGS14 goloco motifs are g alpha i interaction sites with guanine nucleotide dissociation inhibitor activity
    Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2001
    Co-Authors: Randall J Kimple, Helene Tronchere, Cynthia I Behe, Rebecca A Morris, Marilyn Gist Farquhar, Luc De Vries, David P Siderovski
    Abstract:

    Abstract The regulators of G-protein signaling (RGS) proteins accelerate the intrinsic guanosine triphosphatase activity of heterotrimeric G-protein α subunits and are thus recognized as key modulators of G-protein-coupled receptor signaling. RGS12 and RGS14 contain not only the hallmark RGS box responsible for GTPase-accelerating activity but also a single Gαi/o-Loco (GoLoco) motif predicted to represent a second Gα interaction site. Here, we describe functional characterization of the GoLoco motif regions of RGS12 and RGS14. Both regions interact exclusively with Gαi1, Gαi2, and Gαi3 in their GDP-bound forms. In GTPγS binding assays, both regions exhibit guanine nucleotide dissociation inhibitor (GDI) activity, inhibiting the rate of exchange of GDP for GTP by Gαi1. Both regions also stabilize Gαi1 in its GDP-bound form, inhibiting the increase in intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence stimulated by AlF . Our results indicate that both RGS12 and RGS14 harbor two distinctly different Gα interaction sites: a previously recognized N-terminal RGS box possessing Gαi/o GAP activity and a C-terminal GoLoco region exhibiting Gαi GDI activity. The presence of two, independent Gα interaction sites suggests that RGS12 and RGS14 participate in a complex coordination of G-protein signaling beyond simple Gα GAP activity.

Russell W. Brown - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • ontogenetic quinpirole treatment produces long lasting decreases in the expression of rgs9 but increases rgs17 in the striatum nucleus accumbens and frontal cortex
    European Journal of Neuroscience, 2007
    Co-Authors: Amanda M Maple, Joshua P. Parlaman, Marla K. Perna, Gregg D. Stanwood, Russell W. Brown
    Abstract:

    Ontogenetic treatment of rats with the dopamine D 2 -like receptor agonist quinpirole produces a significant increase in dopamine D 2 receptor sensitivity that persists throughout the animal's lifetime, a phenomenon known as D 2 priming. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of priming of the D 2 receptor on the expression of three different members of the regulator of G-protein signaling (RGS) family: Rgs4, Rgs9 and Rgs17. Male offspring were ontogenetically treated with quinpirole or saline from postnatal days (P)1-21 and raised to adulthood. On ∼P65, animals were given an acute quinipirole injection (0.1 mg/kg) and the number of yawns was recorded for 1 h after the injection. Yawning has been shown to be a behavioural event mediated by the dopamine D 2 /D 3 receptor. Animals ontogenetically treated with quinpirole demonstrated a significant 2.5-fold increase in yawning as compared to controls. Rgs transcripts were analysed through in situ hybridization several weeks later. Rats ontogenetically treated with quinpirole demonstrated a significant decrease in Rgs9 expression in the frontal cortex, but a more robust decrease in the striatum and nucleus accumbens as compared to controls. Regarding Rgs17, ontogenetic quinpirole produced a modest but significant increase in expression in the same brain areas. There were no significant differences in Rgs4 expression produced by drug treatment in any of the brain regions analysed. This study demonstrates that ontogenetic quinpirole treatment, which results in priming of the D 2 receptor, results in significant decreases in Rgs9, which has been shown to regulate G-protein coupling to D 2 receptors.

  • Ontogenetic quinpirole treatment produces long-lasting decreases in the expression of Rgs9, but increases Rgs17 in the striatum, nucleus accumbens and frontal cortex.
    The European journal of neuroscience, 2007
    Co-Authors: Amanda M Maple, Joshua P. Parlaman, Marla K. Perna, Gregg D. Stanwood, Russell W. Brown
    Abstract:

    Ontogenetic treatment of rats with the dopamine D(2)-like receptor agonist quinpirole produces a significant increase in dopamine D(2) receptor sensitivity that persists throughout the animal's lifetime, a phenomenon known as D(2) priming. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of priming of the D(2) receptor on the expression of three different members of the regulator of G-protein signaling (RGS) family: Rgs4, Rgs9 and Rgs17. Male offspring were ontogenetically treated with quinpirole or saline from postnatal days (P)1-21 and raised to adulthood. On approximately P65, animals were given an acute quinipirole injection (0.1 mg/kg) and the number of yawns was recorded for 1 h after the injection. Yawning has been shown to be a behavioural event mediated by the dopamine D(2)/D(3) receptor. Animals ontogenetically treated with quinpirole demonstrated a significant 2.5-fold increase in yawning as compared to controls. Rgs transcripts were analysed through in situ hybridization several weeks later. Rats ontogenetically treated with quinpirole demonstrated a significant decrease in Rgs9 expression in the frontal cortex, but a more robust decrease in the striatum and nucleus accumbens as compared to controls. Regarding Rgs17, ontogenetic quinpirole produced a modest but significant increase in expression in the same brain areas. There were no significant differences in Rgs4 expression produced by drug treatment in any of the brain regions analysed. This study demonstrates that ontogenetic quinpirole treatment, which results in priming of the D(2) receptor, results in significant decreases in Rgs9, which has been shown to regulate G-protein coupling to D(2) receptors.

Suneela Ramineni - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • human genetic variants disrupt RGS14 nuclear shuttling and regulation of ltp in hippocampal neurons
    Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2021
    Co-Authors: Katherine E. Squires, Kyle J Gerber, Daniel Lustberg, Suneela Ramineni, Carolina Montanezmiranda, Matthew C Tillman, Meilan Zhao, Christopher D Scharer, Ramendra N Saha, Fengjue Shu
    Abstract:

    The human genome contains vast genetic diversity as naturally occurring coding variants, yet the impact of these variants on protein function and physiology is poorly understood. RGS14 is a multifunctional signaling protein that suppresses synaptic plasticity in dendritic spines of hippocampal neurons. RGS14 also is a nucleocytoplasmic shuttling protein, suggesting that balanced nuclear import/export and dendritic spine localization are essential for RGS14 functions. We identified genetic variants L505R (LR) and R507Q (RQ) located within the nuclear export sequence (NES) of human RGS14. Here we report that RGS14 encoding LR or RQ profoundly impacts protein functions in hippocampal neurons. RGS14 membrane localization is regulated by binding Gαi-GDP, whereas RGS14 nuclear export is regulated by Exportin 1 (XPO1). Remarkably, LR and RQ variants disrupt RGS14 binding to Gαi1-GDP and XPO1, nucleocytoplasmic equilibrium, and capacity to inhibit long-term potentiation (LTP). Variant LR accumulates irreversibly in the nucleus, preventing RGS14 binding to Gαi1, localization to dendritic spines, and inhibitory actions on LTP induction, while variant RQ exhibits a mixed phenotype. When introduced into mice by CRISPR/Cas9, RGS14-LR protein expression was detected predominantly in the nuclei of neurons within hippocampus, central amygdala, piriform cortex, and striatum, brain regions associated with learning and synaptic plasticity. Whereas mice completely lacking RGS14 exhibit enhanced spatial learning, mice carrying variant LR exhibit normal spatial learning, suggesting that RGS14 may have distinct functions in the nucleus independent from those in dendrites and spines. These findings show that naturally occurring genetic variants can profoundly alter normal protein function, impacting physiology in unexpected ways.

  • human genetic variants disrupt RGS14 nuclear shuttling and regulation of ltp in hippocampal neurons
    bioRxiv, 2020
    Co-Authors: Katherine E. Squires, Kyle J Gerber, Daniel Lustberg, Suneela Ramineni, Fengjue Shu, Carolina Montanezmiranda, Matthew C Tillman, Meilan Zhao, Christopher D Scharer, Jason P Schroeder
    Abstract:

    The human genome contains vast genetic diversity in the form of naturally occurring coding variants, yet the impact of these variants on protein function and physiology is poorly understood. RGS14 is a multifunctional signaling protein that suppresses synaptic plasticity in dendritic spines of hippocampal neurons. RGS14 also is a nucleocytoplasmic shuttling protein, suggesting that balanced nuclear import/export and dendritic spine localization are essential for RGS14 functions. We identified genetic variants L505R (LR) and R507Q (RQ) located within the nuclear export sequence (NES) of human RGS14. Here we report that RGS14 carrying LR or RQ profoundly impacts protein functions in hippocampal neurons and brain. Following nuclear import, RGS14 nuclear export is regulated by Exportin 1 (XPO1/CRM1). Remarkably, LR and RQ variants disrupt RGS14 binding to Gαi1-GDP and XPO1, nucleocytoplasmic equilibrium, and capacity to inhibit LTP. Variant LR accumulates irreversibly in the nucleus, preventing RGS14 binding to G proteins, localization to dendritic spines, and inhibitory actions on LTP induction, while variant RQ exhibits a mixed phenotype. When introduced into mice by CRISPR/Cas9, RGS14-LR protein expression was detected predominantly in the nuclei of neurons within hippocampus, central amygdala, piriform cortex, and striatum, brain regions associated with learning and synaptic plasticity. Whereas mice completely lacking RGS14 exhibit enhanced spatial learning, mice carrying variant LR exhibit normal spatial learning, suggesting that RGS14 may have distinct functions in the nucleus independent from those in dendrites and spines. These findings show that naturally occurring genetic variants can profoundly alter normal protein function, impacting physiology in unexpected ways.

  • integration of g protein α gα signaling by the regulator of g protein signaling 14 RGS14
    Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2015
    Co-Authors: Nicole E Brown, Devrishi Goswami, Patrick R Griffin, Mary Rose Branch, Suneela Ramineni, Eric A Ortlund, John R. Hepler
    Abstract:

    RGS14 contains distinct binding sites for both active (GTP-bound) and inactive (GDP-bound) forms of Gα subunits. The N-terminal regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) domain binds active Gαi/o-GTP, whereas the C-terminal G protein regulatory (GPR) motif binds inactive Gαi1/3-GDP. The molecular basis for how RGS14 binds different activation states of Gα proteins to integrate G protein signaling is unknown. Here we explored the intramolecular communication between the GPR motif and the RGS domain upon G protein binding and examined whether RGS14 can functionally interact with two distinct forms of Gα subunits simultaneously. Using complementary cellular and biochemical approaches, we demonstrate that RGS14 forms a stable complex with inactive Gαi1-GDP at the plasma membrane and that free cytosolic RGS14 is recruited to the plasma membrane by activated Gαo-AlF4−. Bioluminescence resonance energy transfer studies showed that RGS14 adopts different conformations in live cells when bound to Gα in different activation states. Hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry revealed that RGS14 is a very dynamic protein that undergoes allosteric conformational changes when inactive Gαi1-GDP binds the GPR motif. Pure RGS14 forms a ternary complex with Gαo-AlF4− and an AlF4−-insensitive mutant (G42R) of Gαi1-GDP, as observed by size exclusion chromatography and differential hydrogen/deuterium exchange. Finally, a preformed RGS14·Gαi1-GDP complex exhibits full capacity to stimulate the GTPase activity of Gαo-GTP, demonstrating that RGS14 can functionally engage two distinct forms of Gα subunits simultaneously. Based on these findings, we propose a working model for how RGS14 integrates multiple G protein signals in host CA2 hippocampal neurons to modulate synaptic plasticity.

  • the ras binding domain region of RGS14 regulates its functional interactions with heterotrimeric g proteins
    Journal of Cellular Biochemistry, 2013
    Co-Authors: Peishen Zhao, Caroline Nunn, John R. Hepler, Suneela Ramineni, Peter Chidiac
    Abstract:

    RGS14 is a 60 kDa protein that contains a regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) domain near its N-terminus, a central region containing a pair of tandem Ras-binding domains (RBD), and a GPSM (G protein signaling modulator) domain (a.k.a. Gi/o-Loco binding [GoLoco] motif) near its C-terminus. The RGS domain of RGS14 exhibits GTPase accelerating protein (GAP) activity toward Gαi/o proteins, while its GPSM domain acts as a guanine nucleotide dissociation inhibitor (GDI) on Gαi1 and Gαi3. In the current study, we investigate the contribution of different domains of RGS14 to its biochemical functions. Here we show that the full-length protein has a greater GTPase activating activity but a weaker inhibition of nucleotide dissociation relative to its isolated RGS and GPSM regions, respectively. Our data suggest that these differences may be attributable to an inter-domain interaction within RGS14 that promotes the activity of the RGS domain, but simultaneously inhibits the activity of the GPSM domain. The RBD region seems to play an essential role in this regulatory activity. Moreover, this region of RGS14 is also able to bind to members of the B/R4 subfamily of RGS proteins and enhance their effects on GPCR-activated Gi/o proteins. Overall, our results suggest a mechanism wherein the RBD region associates with the RGS domain region, producing an intramolecular interaction within RGS14 that enhances the GTPase activating function of its RGS domain while disfavoring the negative effect of its GPSM domain on nucleotide dissociation.

  • RGS14 is a natural suppressor of both synaptic plasticity in ca2 neurons and hippocampal based learning and memory
    Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 2010
    Co-Authors: Sarah Emerson Lee, Christopher P. Vellano, Suneela Ramineni, Meilan Zhao, Jason P Schroeder, Stephen B Simons, Scott A Heldt, Patrick D Cowan, Cindee K Yates, Yue Feng
    Abstract:

    Learning and memory have been closely linked to strengthening of synaptic connections between neurons (i.e., synaptic plasticity) within the dentate gyrus (DG)–CA3–CA1 trisynaptic circuit of the hippocampus. Conspicuously absent from this circuit is area CA2, an intervening hippocampal region that is poorly understood. Schaffer collateral synapses on CA2 neurons are distinct from those on other hippocampal neurons in that they exhibit a perplexing lack of synaptic long-term potentiation (LTP). Here we demonstrate that the signaling protein RGS14 is highly enriched in CA2 pyramidal neurons and plays a role in suppression of both synaptic plasticity at these synapses and hippocampal-based learning and memory. RGS14 is a scaffolding protein that integrates G protein and H-Ras/ERK/MAP kinase signaling pathways, thereby making it well positioned to suppress plasticity in CA2 neurons. Supporting this idea, deletion of exons 2–7 of the RGS14 gene yields mice that lack RGS14 (RGS14-KO) and now express robust LTP at glutamatergic synapses in CA2 neurons with no impact on synaptic plasticity in CA1 neurons. Treatment of RGS14-deficient CA2 neurons with a specific MEK inhibitor blocked this LTP, suggesting a role for ERK/MAP kinase signaling pathways in this process. When tested behaviorally, RGS14-KO mice exhibited marked enhancement in spatial learning and in object recognition memory compared with their wild-type littermates, but showed no differences in their performance on tests of nonhippocampal-dependent behaviors. These results demonstrate that RGS14 is a key regulator of signaling pathways linking synaptic plasticity in CA2 pyramidal neurons to hippocampal-based learning and memory but distinct from the canonical DG–CA3–CA1 circuit.

John H Kehrl - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • rgs1 and rgs13 mrna silencing in a human b lymphoma line enhances responsiveness to chemoattractants and impairs desensitization
    Journal of Leukocyte Biology, 2006
    Co-Authors: Jangil Han, Ningna Huang, Donguk Kim, John H Kehrl
    Abstract:

    Chemokines bind receptors that are members of the G-protein-coupled receptor family. Chemokine receptors transduce intracellular signals by activating heterotrimeric G-proteins. Acting to limit and modulate heterotrimeric G-protein signaling is a family of proteins, termed regulator of G-protein signaling (RGS). Two of these proteins, RGS1 and RGS13, are well-expressed in germinal center B cells and many Burkitt's lymphoma cell lines. Reducing RGS13 and to a lesser extent RGS1 expression in a Burkitt's lymphoma cell line enhances responsiveness to two chemokines, CXC chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) and CXCL13, and reducing both mRNAs augments the responses more dramatically. The double knock-down (KD) cells respond better to restimulation with CXCL12 or CXCL13 after a primary stimulation with CXCL12 than do the control cells. The double-KD cells also exhibit a greater propensity to polarize and to develop multiple small lamellipodia. These results indicate that RGS1 and RGS13 act together to regulate chemokine receptor signaling in human germinal center B lymphocytes and provide evidence that they contribute significantly to the rapid desensitization of the signaling pathway.

  • RGS14 is a centrosomal and nuclear cytoplasmic shuttling protein that traffics to promyelocytic leukemia nuclear bodies following heat shock
    Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2005
    Co-Authors: Hyeseon Cho, Donguk Kim, John H Kehrl
    Abstract:

    RGS14, a member of the regulator of G-protein signaling (RGS) protein family, possesses an N-terminal RGS domain, two Raf-like Ras-binding domains, and a GoLoco motif, which has GDP dissociation inhibitor activity. In this study we show that unique among the known mammalian RGS proteins, RGS14 localizes in centrosomes. Its first Ras-binding domain is sufficient to target RGS14 to centrosomes. RGS14 also shuttles between the cytoplasm and nucleus, and its nuclear export depends on the CRM-1 nuclear export receptor. Mutation of a nuclear export signal or treatment with leptomycin B causes nuclear accumulation of RGS14 and its association with promyelocytic leukemia protein nuclear bodies. Furthermore, a point mutant defective in nuclear export fails to target to centrosomes, suggesting that nuclear cytoplasmic shuttling is necessary for its proper localization. Mild heat stress, but not proteotoxic or transcription-linked stresses, re-localizes the RGS14 from the cytoplasm to promyelocytic leukemia nuclear bodies. Expression of RGS14, but not point mutants that disrupt the functional activity of its RGS domain or GoLoco motif, enhances the reporter gene activity. The multifunctional domains and the dynamic subcellular localization of RGS14 implicate it in a diverse set of cellular processes including centrosome and nuclear functions and stress-induced signaling pathways.

  • abnormal b cell responses to chemokines disturbed plasma cell localization and distorted immune tissue architecture in rgs1 mice
    Molecular and Cellular Biology, 2004
    Co-Authors: Chantal Moratz, Russell J Hayman, John H Kehrl
    Abstract:

    The migration of developing lymphocytes into lymphoid tissues, the recirculation of lymphocytes, as well as organization of secondary immune structures such as lymphoid follicles results from a regulated configuration of cell surface adhesion molecules and chemoattractant receptors as well as a spatial overlay of multiple chemoattractant gradients (1, 23, 29, 32). Mechanisms that allow a cell, such as a B-lymphocyte, to interrupt, modify, and prioritize signals from such a milieu of stimuli are essential for efficient and normal immune function. Inappropriate interpretations by cells within such a complex environment is deleterious, leading to inappropriate trafficking, survival, and activation of cells (10, 12, 28, 37). Previous work has detailed B-cell migratory patterns following antigen challenge, including the establishment of germinal centers; cycling within germinal centers; the exiting of memory and antibody-secreting B cells (ASCs) from germinal centers; and the trafficking of ASCs to bone marrow, lamina propria, and other mucosal sites (5, 16, 22, 27, 30, 42, 45). Much of this work has focused on chemokines and their receptors and upon adhesion molecules, while less is known about the signaling mechanisms that allow B cells to efficiently negotiate the complex chemokine gradients likely present in tissues. Most chemoattracant receptors and all chemokine receptors couple to heterotrimeric G-proteins (1). Activated receptors trigger Gα subunits to exchange GTP for GDP, which dissociates the Gα subunit from βγ heterodimers, leading to the activation of downstream effectors. However, Gα subunits possess an intrinsic GTPase activity that limits the duration of their remaining GTP bound. GTP hydrolysis allows the heterotrimer to reform, and signaling ceases (18, 35). Also limiting the duration of Gα subunits' remaining GTP bound, members of the regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) protein family dramatically increase the intrinsic Gα GTPase activity, a property that defines them as GTPase activating proteins (GAPs). Genetic studies in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Caenorhabditis elegans, and Aspergillus nidulans first identified such proteins (7, 21, 25). Independently, a mammalian protein termed GAIP was discovered to interact with a Gα subunit (6) and four mammalian proteins designated RGS1, RGS2, RGS3, and RGS4 substituted to various degrees for Sst2p, a yeast protein involved in the desensitization of pheromone signaling (9). Approximately 25 human RGS proteins have now been identified. When tested in standard in vitro GAP assays, most RGS proteins possess GAP activity for the α subunits of the Gi and Gq subfamilies (3, 19, 44). Since chemokine receptors use Gi and perhaps Gq to transduce intracellular signals, the presence of an RGS protein in target cells could substantially alter the response to chemokine stimulation (20). B-lymphocytes, especially following B-cell activation through their antigen receptors, express RGS1. Consistent with a role for RGS1 in regulating the B-cell responses to chemokines, the expression of RGS1 in B-cell lines dramatically impairs their migratory response to CXCL12 and CXCL13 (4, 33, 38). Because the normal trafficking of B cells depends upon the ligand receptor pairs CXCL12-CXCR4 (34, 46) and CXCL13-CXCR5 (11, 15, 26), a deficiency of Rgs1 in vivo could alter B-cell development and/or the organization of B cells in lymphoid tissues. To test that possibility we generated Rgs1−/− mice.

  • the aorta and heart differentially express rgs regulators of g protein signalling proteins that selectively regulate sphingosine 1 phosphate angiotensin ii and endothelin 1 signalling
    Biochemical Journal, 2003
    Co-Authors: Hyeseon Cho, Kathleen Harrison, Owen Schwartz, John H Kehrl
    Abstract:

    Normal cardiovascular development and physiology depend in part upon signalling through G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), such as the angiotensin II type 1 (AT(1)) receptor, sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptors and endothelin-1 (ET-1) receptor. Since regulator of G-protein signalling (RGS) proteins function as GTPase-activating proteins for the G alpha subunit of heterotrimeric G-proteins, these proteins undoubtedly have functional roles in the cardiovascular system. In the present paper, we show that human aorta and heart differentially express RGS1, RGS2, RGS3S (short-form), RGS3L (long-form), PDZ-RGS3 (PDZ domain-containing) and RGS4. The aorta prominently expresses mRNAs for all these RGS proteins except PDZ-RGS3. Various stimuli that are critical for both cardiovascular development and function regulate dynamically the mRNA levels of several of these RGS proteins in primary human aortic smooth muscle cells. Both RGS1 and RGS3 inhibit signalling through the S1P(1) (formerly known as EDG-1), S1P(2) (formerly known as EDG-5) and S1P(3) (formerly known as EDG-3) receptors, whereas RGS2 and RGS4 selectively attenuate S1P(2)-and S1P(3)-receptor signalling respectively. All of the tested RGS proteins inhibit AT(1)-receptor signalling, whereas only RGS3 and, to a lesser extent, RGS4 inhibit ET(A)-receptor signalling. The conspicuous expression of RGS proteins in the cardiovascular system and their selective effects on relevant GPCR-signalling pathways provide additional evidence that they have functional roles in cardiovascular development and physiology.

  • rgs13 regulates germinal center b lymphocytes responsiveness to cxc chemokine ligand cxcl 12 and cxcl13
    Journal of Immunology, 2002
    Co-Authors: Gengxian Shi, Kathleen Harrison, Chantal Moratz, Gaye Lynn Wilson, John H Kehrl
    Abstract:

    Normal lymphoid tissue development and function depend upon directed cell migration. Providing guideposts for cell movement and positioning within lymphoid tissues, chemokines signal through cell surface receptors that couple to heterotrimeric G proteins, which are in turn subject to regulation by regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins. In this study, we report that germinal center B lymphocytes and thymic epithelial cells strongly express one of the RGS family members, RGS13. Located between Rgs1 and Rgs2, Rgs13 spans 42 kb on mouse chromosome 1. Rgs13 encodes a 157-aa protein that shares 82% amino acid identity with its 159-aa human counterpart. In situ hybridization with sense and antisense probes localized Rgs13 expression to the germinal center regions of mouse spleens and Peyer's patches and to the thymus medulla. Affinity-purified RGS13 Abs detected RGS13-expressing cells in the light zone of the germinal center. RGS13 interacted with both Gialpha and Gqalpha and strongly impaired signaling through G(i)-linked signaling pathways, including signaling through the chemokine receptors CXCR4 and CXCR5. Prolonged CD40 signaling up-regulated RGS13 expression in human tonsil B lymphocytes. These results plus previous studies of RGS1 indicate the germinal center B cells use two RGS proteins, RGS1 and RGS13, to regulate their responsiveness to chemokines.