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Updated: May 16, 2026

Measuring G-protein-coupled Receptor Signaling via Radio-labeled GTP Binding
Published on: June 9, 2017
Systems Biological Approaches Reveal Non-additive Responses and Multiple Crosstalk Mechanisms between TLR and GPCR
Jayalakshmi Krishnan1, Sangdun Choi
1Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon 443-749, Korea.
Abstract:
A variety of ligands differ in their capacity to bind the receptor, elicit gene expression, and modulate physiological responses. Such receptors include Toll-like receptors (TLRs), which recognize various patterns of pathogens and lead to primary innate immune activation against invaders, and G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), whose interaction with their cognate ligands activates heterotrimeric G proteins and regulates specific downstream effectors, including immuno-stimulating molecules. Once TLRs are activated, they lead to the expression of hundreds of genes together and bridge the arm of innate and adaptive immune responses. We characterized the gene expression profile of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in RAW 264.7 cells when it bound with its ligand, 2-keto-3-deoxyoctonate (KDO), the active part of lipopolysaccharide. In addition, to determine the network communications among the TLR, Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT), and GPCR, we tested RAW 264.7 cells with KDO, interferon-β, or cAMP analog 8-Br. The ligands were also administered as a pair of double and triple combinations.
Insights
This study investigated Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) gene expression in response to its ligand, KDO. It explored network communications between TLR, JAK/STAT, and GPCR pathways in immune cells.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Signaling
Background:
- Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are crucial for innate immunity, recognizing pathogen patterns and activating immune responses.
- G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) also play a role in immune regulation by activating downstream effectors.
- TLR activation leads to widespread gene expression, bridging innate and adaptive immunity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the gene expression profile of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in RAW 264.7 cells upon binding with 2-keto-3-deoxyoctonate (KDO).
- To investigate the network communications among TLR, Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT), and GPCR signaling pathways.
- To assess the effects of KDO, interferon-β, and a cAMP analog (8-Br) on these cellular networks.
Main Methods:
- RAW 264.7 cells were treated with KDO, interferon-β, or 8-Br, individually and in combinations.
- Gene expression profiles were analyzed to understand cellular responses.
- Network interactions between TLR, JAK/STAT, and GPCR pathways were investigated.
Main Results:
- Characterization of TLR4 gene expression in response to KDO.
- Identification of network communications between TLR, JAK/STAT, and GPCR pathways.
- Differential cellular responses observed with single and combined ligand treatments.
Conclusions:
- TLR4 activation by KDO influences gene expression in immune cells.
- Interactions between TLR, JAK/STAT, and GPCR pathways are critical for immune signaling.
- This research provides insights into the complex molecular networks governing immune responses.
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