Selective regulation of Gi alpha 1 expression and function in PC12 cells by cAMP

Hormone and neutrotransmitter receptor systems regulate both the activity and expression of GTP-binding proteins (G-proteins). However, relatively little is known about the mechanism by which this regulation occurs. One G-protein subtype, Gi alpha 1, is expressed primarily in neuronal cells. Here, we demonstrate the selective regulation of Gi alpha 1 mRNA and protein levels by cAMP. Treatment of PC12 cells with forskolin increases Gi alpha protein levels. Similarly, incubation of PC12 cells with agents that increase intracellular levels of cAMP, including forskolin, dibutyryl-cAMP, and 8-bromo-cAMP, induce a two- to fourfold increase in Gi alpha 1 mRNA levels. Furthermore, the effect of increased intracellular cAMP is specific for Gi alpha 1 mRNA expression; the levels of mRNA encoding other G-protein subtypes remain unaltered. cAMP-stimulated Gi alpha 1 expression occurs within hours of treatment and is sustained for days. Increasing intracellular cAMP by activation of cell surface adenosine receptors also increases Gi alpha 1 mRNA levels. Treatment of PC12 cells with phorbol esters, NGF, or depolarizing concentrations of KCl did not increase Gi alpha 1 mRNA expression, demonstrating that Gi alpha 1 expression is specifically regulated by cAMP. Guanine nucleotide-mediated inhibition of adenylate cyclase activity was measured in order to determine if the change in Gi alpha protein expression was accompanied by a change in G-protein function. Adenylate cyclase activity in PC12 cells treated with an adenosine analog and therefore expressing higher levels of Gi alpha protein is more sensitive to inhibition by guanine nucleotides than in nontreated PC12 cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)