Structure of the transmembrane signal initiation site of the relaxin-like factor (RLF/INSL3)

Biochemistry. 2007 Aug 28;46(34):9722-7. doi: 10.1021/bi700708s. Epub 2007 Aug 3.

Abstract

We have discovered the signal initiation structure of the relaxin-like factor and shown its function to be independent of the amino acid side chains in the contact region. Evidence presented in this article suggests that signal induction is a function of the peptide bond and that completion of the signaling contact is initiated by ligand binding to the leucine-rich repeat G-protein coupled receptor 8 (LGR8). The specific mode of binding forces certain peptide bonds into a signaling position. This observation implies that the receiving structures are equally nonspecific so that signaling should occur at any peptide bond of the receptor or the trans-membrane loop that is within reach of the signaling wires of the receptor-bound ligand. Our observations offer an explanation for ligand cross-talk as well as for the ability of some antibodies to elicit the biological response normally associated with a specific ligand.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cell Membrane / physiology*
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Cyclic AMP / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Insulin / chemistry*
  • Insulin / genetics
  • Insulin / metabolism*
  • Peptide Fragments / chemistry
  • Peptide Fragments / genetics
  • Peptide Fragments / metabolism
  • Protein Sorting Signals / physiology*
  • Proteins / chemistry*
  • Proteins / genetics
  • Proteins / metabolism*
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / metabolism*
  • Spectrometry, Mass, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption-Ionization

Substances

  • Insulin
  • Leydig insulin-like protein
  • Peptide Fragments
  • Protein Sorting Signals
  • Proteins
  • RXFP2 protein, human
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled
  • Cyclic AMP