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Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Imaging G-protein Coupled Receptor (GPCR)-mediated Signaling Events that Control Chemotaxis of Dictyostelium Discoideum
09:40

Imaging G-protein Coupled Receptor (GPCR)-mediated Signaling Events that Control Chemotaxis of Dictyostelium Discoideum

Published on: September 20, 2011

A Model Based on Receptor Desensitization for Cyclic AMP Signaling in Dictyostelium Cells

J L Martiel, A Goldbeter

    Biophysical Journal
    |May 12, 2009
    PubMed

    Insights

    This study models cAMP signaling in Dictyostelium discoideum, revealing how receptor desensitization explains oscillations, excitability, and adaptation in cell aggregation. The findings clarify periodic signaling roles in slime mold development and hormone secretion.

    Area of Science:

    • Cellular and Molecular Biology
    • Biophysics
    • Developmental Biology

    Background:

    • The slime mold Dictyostelium discoideum aggregates in response to starvation via cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signaling.
    • Receptor modification, including desensitization and activation, plays a critical role in this signaling pathway.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To analyze a mathematical model of the cAMP signaling system in Dictyostelium discoideum.
    • To investigate the roles of receptor desensitization and activation in controlling cell aggregation dynamics.
    • To understand the mechanisms underlying cAMP oscillations, excitability, and adaptation.

    Main Methods:

    • Development of a three-variable model incorporating intracellular and extracellular cAMP, and receptor activity.
    • Utilizing experimental parameter values for cAMP signaling and receptor phosphorylation.
    • Phase plane analysis of a simplified two-variable model to link excitability and oscillations.

    Main Results:

    • The model accurately reproduces observed dynamic behaviors, including autonomous cAMP oscillations, excitability (pulse relay with refractory periods), and adaptation to constant stimuli.
    • Demonstrated quantitative and qualitative agreement with experimental findings on Dictyostelium discoideum signaling.
    • Established a link between receptor desensitization and the observed dynamic phenomena.

    Conclusions:

    • Receptor desensitization is a key mechanism explaining the complex dynamics of cAMP signaling in Dictyostelium discoideum.
    • The model provides insights into the function of pulsatile signaling patterns in developmental processes and hormone secretion.
    • Periodic signaling and receptor modification are crucial for coordinated cell behavior and communication.

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