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Purinergic P2 Receptors: Structure and Function 2.0

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Biology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 May 2022) | Viewed by 20325

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Guest Editor
Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 14220 Prague, Czech Republic
Interests: release of neurotransmitters and hormones; ion channels; P2X receptors; molecular structure
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

ATP (adenosine-5´-triphosphate) is a multifunctional intracellular molecule that serves as an energy source in all living cells. However, much less is known about its role as an extracellular messenger or neurotransmitter. Extracellular ATP and its metabolic products act on its plasma membrane receptors, termed purinergic receptors, composed of two families: The ion-conducting P2X receptor channels and the G protein-coupled P2Y receptors. By mediating depolarization, Ca2+ influx, and Ca2+ mobilization from intracellular stores, the extracellular nucleotide/P2 receptor system has numerous functions in excitable and nonexcitable cells. The P2X and P2Y receptors have been documented to be involved in many physiological and pathological processes, including inflammation, pain, and cancer, and are potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of these pathologies. This perspective is closely related to understanding the molecular physiology of these receptors, which might be activated simultaneously if expressed in the same cell.

This Special Issue aims to present contemporary research providing structural insights into the function of the P2X and P2Y receptors, as well as their physiology and pharmacology. It may include original articles covering experimental reports on a particular receptor, technical development, or novel screening technology, as well as review papers relating to such subjects.

Dr. Hana Zemkova
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • Extracellular ATP
  • Purinergic signaling
  • P2X receptor
  • P2Y receptor
  • ATP release
  • Molecular structure
  • Molecular pathway

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Published Papers (8 papers)

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Editorial

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3 pages, 166 KiB  
Editorial
Purinergic P2 Receptors: Structure and Function 2.0
by Hana Zemkova
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(6), 5462; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24065462 - 13 Mar 2023
Viewed by 1025
Abstract
This Special Issue of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences (IJMS) is a direct continuation of the previous Special Issue of this journal, entitled “Purinergic P2 Receptors: Structure and Function” https://www [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Purinergic P2 Receptors: Structure and Function 2.0)

Research

Jump to: Editorial

15 pages, 4950 KiB  
Article
P2X4 Receptors Mediate Ca2+ Release from Lysosomes in Response to Stimulation of P2X7 and H1 Histamine Receptors
by Sin-Lih Tan, Muruj Barri, Peace Atakpa-Adaji, Colin W. Taylor, Ewan St. John Smith and Ruth D. Murrell-Lagnado
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(19), 10492; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms221910492 - 28 Sep 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2641
Abstract
The P2X4 purinergic receptor is targeted to endolysosomes, where it mediates an inward current dependent on luminal ATP and pH. Activation of P2X4 receptors was previously shown to trigger lysosome fusion, but the regulation of P2X4 receptors and their role in lysosomal Ca [...] Read more.
The P2X4 purinergic receptor is targeted to endolysosomes, where it mediates an inward current dependent on luminal ATP and pH. Activation of P2X4 receptors was previously shown to trigger lysosome fusion, but the regulation of P2X4 receptors and their role in lysosomal Ca2+ signaling are poorly understood. We show that lysosomal P2X4 receptors are activated downstream of plasma membrane P2X7 and H1 histamine receptor stimulation. When P2X4 receptors are expressed, the increase in near-lysosome cytosolic [Ca2+] is exaggerated, as detected with a low-affinity targeted Ca2+ sensor. P2X4-dependent changes in lysosome properties were triggered downstream of P2X7 receptor activation, including an enlargement of lysosomes indicative of homotypic fusion and a redistribution of lysosomes towards the periphery of the cell. Lysosomal P2X4 receptors, therefore, have a role in regulating lysosomal Ca2+ release and the regulation of lysosomal membrane trafficking. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Purinergic P2 Receptors: Structure and Function 2.0)
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20 pages, 7528 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Purinergic P2 Receptors in the Mouse Hippocampus
by Julian Lommen, Julika Detken, Katharina Harr, Charlotte von Gall and Amira A. H. Ali
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(15), 8078; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22158078 - 28 Jul 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1998
Abstract
ATP and other nucleotides are important glio-/neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. They bind to purinergic P2X and P2Y receptors that are ubiquitously expressed in various brain regions modulating various physiological and pathophysiological processes. P2X receptors are ligand-gated ion channels mediating excitatory postsynaptic [...] Read more.
ATP and other nucleotides are important glio-/neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. They bind to purinergic P2X and P2Y receptors that are ubiquitously expressed in various brain regions modulating various physiological and pathophysiological processes. P2X receptors are ligand-gated ion channels mediating excitatory postsynaptic responses whereas P2Y receptors are G protein-coupled receptors mediating slow synaptic transmission. A variety of P2X and P2Y subtypes with distinct neuroanatomical localization provide the basis for a high diversity in their function. There is increasing evidence that P2 receptor signaling plays a prominent role in learning and memory and thus, in hippocampal neuronal plasticity. Learning and memory are time-of-day-dependent. Moreover, extracellular ATP shows a diurnal rhythm in rodents. However, it is not known whether P2 receptors have a temporal variation in the hippocampus. This study provides a detailed systematic analysis on spatial and temporal distribution of P2 in the mouse hippocampus. We found distinct spatial and temporal distribution patterns of the P2 receptors in different hippocampal layers. The temporal distribution of P2 receptors can be segregated into two large time domains, the early to mid-day and the mid to late night. This study provides an important basis for understanding dynamic P2 purinergic signaling in the hippocampal glia/neuronal network. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Purinergic P2 Receptors: Structure and Function 2.0)
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12 pages, 1950 KiB  
Article
Hybrid QM/MM Simulations Confirm Zn(II) Coordination Sphere That Includes Four Cysteines from the P2 × 4R Head Domain
by Francisco Andrés Peralta, J. Pablo Huidobro-Toro and Raúl Mera-Adasme
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(14), 7288; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22147288 - 7 Jul 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2009
Abstract
To ascertain the role of Zn(II) as an allosteric modulator on P2X4R, QM/MM molecular dynamic simulations were performed on the WT and two P2X4R mutants suggested by previous electrophysiological data to affect Zn(II) binding. The Gibbs free energy for the reduction of the [...] Read more.
To ascertain the role of Zn(II) as an allosteric modulator on P2X4R, QM/MM molecular dynamic simulations were performed on the WT and two P2X4R mutants suggested by previous electrophysiological data to affect Zn(II) binding. The Gibbs free energy for the reduction of the putative P2X4R Zn(II) binding site by glutathione was estimated at −22 kcal/mol. Simulations of the WT P2X4R head domain revealed a flexible coordination sphere dominated by an octahedral geometry encompassing C126, N127, C132, C149, C159 and a water molecule. The C132A mutation disrupted the metal binding site, leading to a coordination sphere with a majority of water ligands, and a displacement of the metal ion towards the solvent. The C132A/C159A mutant exhibited a tendency towards WT-like stability by incorporating the R148 backbone to the coordination sphere. Thus, the computational findings agree with previous experimental data showing Zn(II) modulation for the WT and C132A/C159A variants, but not for the C132A mutant. The results provide molecular insights into the nature of the Zn(II) modulation in P2X4R, and the effect of the C132A and C132A/C159A mutations, accounting for an elusive modulation mechanism possibly occurring in other extracellular or membrane protein. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Purinergic P2 Receptors: Structure and Function 2.0)
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12 pages, 1341 KiB  
Article
Impact of P2X7 Purinoceptors on Goblet Cell Function: Implications for Dry Eye
by Donald G. Puro
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(13), 6935; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22136935 - 28 Jun 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1949
Abstract
By providing ~70% of the eye’s refractive power, the preocular tear film is essential for optimal vision. However, its integrity is often jeopardized by environmental and pathologic conditions that accelerate evaporation and cause sight-impairing dry eye. A key adaptive response to evaporation-induced tear [...] Read more.
By providing ~70% of the eye’s refractive power, the preocular tear film is essential for optimal vision. However, its integrity is often jeopardized by environmental and pathologic conditions that accelerate evaporation and cause sight-impairing dry eye. A key adaptive response to evaporation-induced tear film hyperosmolarity is the reflex-triggered release of tear-stabilizing mucin from conjunctival goblet cells. Here, we review progress in elucidating the roles of ion channels in mediating this important exocytotic response. Much is now known about the modulatory impact of ATP-sensitive potassium channels, nonspecific cation channels and voltage-gated calcium channels. Recently, we discovered that during unremitting extracellular hyperosmolarity, P2X7 receptor/channels also become activated and markedly impair goblet cell viability. However, our understanding of possible adaptive benefits of this P2X7 activation remains limited. In the present study, we utilized high-temporal resolution membrane capacitance measurements to monitor the exocytotic activity of single goblet cells located in freshly excised rat conjunctiva. We now report that activation of P2X7 purinoceptors boosts neural-evoked exocytosis and accelerates replenishment of mucin-filled granules after exocytotic depletion. Thus, P2X7 activation exerts a yin-yang effect on conjunctival goblet cells: the high-gain benefit of enhancing the supply of tear-stabilizing mucin is implemented at the high-risk of endangering goblet cell survival. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Purinergic P2 Receptors: Structure and Function 2.0)
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24 pages, 3362 KiB  
Article
P2X7 Receptors and TMEM16 Channels Are Functionally Coupled with Implications for Macropore Formation and Current Facilitation
by Kate Dunning, Adeline Martz, Francisco Andrés Peralta, Federico Cevoli, Eric Boué-Grabot, Vincent Compan, Fanny Gautherat, Patrick Wolf, Thierry Chataigneau and Thomas Grutter
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(12), 6542; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22126542 - 18 Jun 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3471
Abstract
P2X7 receptors (P2X7) are cationic channels involved in many diseases. Following their activation by extracellular ATP, distinct signaling pathways are triggered, which lead to various physiological responses such as the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines or the modulation of cell death. P2X7 also exhibit [...] Read more.
P2X7 receptors (P2X7) are cationic channels involved in many diseases. Following their activation by extracellular ATP, distinct signaling pathways are triggered, which lead to various physiological responses such as the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines or the modulation of cell death. P2X7 also exhibit unique behaviors, such as “macropore” formation, which corresponds to enhanced large molecule cell membrane permeability and current facilitation, which is caused by prolonged activation. These two phenomena have often been confounded but, thus far, no clear mechanisms have been resolved. Here, by combining different approaches including whole-cell and single-channel recordings, pharmacological and biochemical assays, CRISPR/Cas9 technology and cell imaging, we provide evidence that current facilitation and macropore formation involve functional complexes comprised of P2X7 and TMEM16, a family of Ca2+-activated ion channel/scramblases. We found that current facilitation results in an increase of functional complex-embedded P2X7 open probability, a result that is recapitulated by plasma membrane cholesterol depletion. We further show that macropore formation entails two distinct large molecule permeation components, one of which requires functional complexes featuring TMEM16F subtype, the other likely being direct permeation through the P2X7 pore itself. Such functional complexes can be considered to represent a regulatory hub that may orchestrate distinct P2X7 functionalities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Purinergic P2 Receptors: Structure and Function 2.0)
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18 pages, 10247 KiB  
Article
Confocal Blood Flow Videomicroscopy of Thrombus Formation over Human Arteries and Local Targeting of P2X7
by Patrizia Marchese, Maria Lombardi, Maria Elena Mantione, Domenico Baccellieri, David Ferrara, Roberto Chiesa, Ottavio Alfieri and Chiara Foglieni
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(8), 4066; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22084066 - 14 Apr 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2895
Abstract
Atherothrombosis exposes vascular components to blood. Currently, new antithrombotic therapies are emerging. Herein we investigated thrombogenesis of human arteries with/without atherosclerosis, and the interaction of coagulation and vascular components, we and explored the anti-thrombogenic efficacy of blockade of the P2X purinoceptor 7 (P2X7). [...] Read more.
Atherothrombosis exposes vascular components to blood. Currently, new antithrombotic therapies are emerging. Herein we investigated thrombogenesis of human arteries with/without atherosclerosis, and the interaction of coagulation and vascular components, we and explored the anti-thrombogenic efficacy of blockade of the P2X purinoceptor 7 (P2X7). A confocal blood flow videomicroscopy system was performed on cryosections of internal mammary artery (IMA) or carotid plaque (CPL) determining/localizing platelets and fibrin. Blood from healthy donors elicited thrombi over arterial layers. Confocal microscopy associated thrombus with tissue presence of collagen type I, laminin, fibrin(ogen) and tissue factor (TF). The addition of antibodies blocking TF (aTF) or factor XI (aFXI) to blood significantly reduced fibrin deposition, variable platelet aggregation and aTF + aFXI almost abolished thrombus formation, showing synergy between coagulation pathways. A scarce effect of aTF over sub-endothelial regions, more abundant in tissue TF and bundles of laminin and collagen type I than deep intima, may suggest tissue thrombogenicity as molecular structure-related. Consistently with TF-related vascular function and expression of P2X7, the sections from CPL but not IMA tissue cultures pre-treated with the P2X7 antagonist A740003 demonstrated poor thrombogenesis in flow experiments. These data hint to local targeting studies on P2X7 modulation for atherothrombosis prevention/therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Purinergic P2 Receptors: Structure and Function 2.0)
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16 pages, 3519 KiB  
Article
Characterization of Potency of the P2Y13 Receptor Agonists: A Meta-Analysis
by Chrisanne Dsouza and Svetlana V Komarova
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(7), 3468; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22073468 - 27 Mar 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3119
Abstract
P2Y13 is an ADP-stimulated G-protein coupled receptor implicated in many physiological processes, including neurotransmission, metabolism, pain, and bone homeostasis. Quantitative understanding of P2Y13 activation dynamics is important for translational studies. We systematically identified PubMed annotated studies that characterized concentration-dependence of P2Y13 responses to [...] Read more.
P2Y13 is an ADP-stimulated G-protein coupled receptor implicated in many physiological processes, including neurotransmission, metabolism, pain, and bone homeostasis. Quantitative understanding of P2Y13 activation dynamics is important for translational studies. We systematically identified PubMed annotated studies that characterized concentration-dependence of P2Y13 responses to natural and synthetic agonists. Since the comparison of the efficacy (maximum response) is difficult for studies performed in different systems, we normalized the data and conducted a meta-analysis of EC50 (concentration at half-maximum response) and Hill coefficient (slope) of P2Y13-mediated responses to different agonists. For signaling events induced by heterologously expressed P2Y13, EC50 of ADP-like agonists was 17.2 nM (95% CI: 7.7–38.5), with Hills coefficient of 4.4 (95% CI: 3.3–5.4), while ATP-like agonists had EC50 of 0.45 μM (95% CI: 0.06–3.15). For functional responses of endogenously expressed P2Y13, EC50 of ADP-like agonists was 1.76 μM (95% CI: 0.3–10.06). The EC50 of ADP-like agonists was lower for the brain P2Y13 than the blood P2Y13. ADP-like agonists were also more potent for human P2Y13 compared to rodent P2Y13. Thus, P2Y13 appears to be the most ADP-sensitive receptor characterized to date. The detailed understanding of tissue- and species-related differences in the P2Y13 response to ADP will improve the selectivity and specificity of future pharmacological compounds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Purinergic P2 Receptors: Structure and Function 2.0)
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