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Glucocorticoids modulate mRNA levels for G-protein beta-subunits
M Ros1, D C Watkins, P J Rapiejko
1Department of Pharmacological Sciences, School of Medicine, State University of New York, Stony Brook 11794-8651.
The Biochemical Journal
|May 15, 1989
Summary
Adrenalectomy reduces G-protein beta-subunit (G beta) mRNA in rat fat cells, while glucocorticoids like dexamethasone increase these levels. Dexamethasone also reverses the adrenalectomy-induced decline in G beta mRNA.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Cellular Signaling
Background:
- G-protein beta-subunits (G beta) play crucial roles in cellular signaling.
- Hormonal regulation of G beta expression in adipocytes is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of adrenalectomy and glucocorticoid treatment on G beta mRNA levels in rat fat cells.
- To establish a method for quantifying G beta mRNA steady-state levels.
Main Methods:
- Development of a DNA-excess solution-hybridization assay.
- Measurement of G beta mRNA levels in rat fat cells following adrenalectomy and/or dexamethasone treatment.
Main Results:
- A DNA-excess solution-hybridization assay quantified G beta mRNA at 5.8 +/- 0.4 amol/micrograms of RNA in control fat cells.
- Adrenalectomy led to a 20% decrease in G beta mRNA levels.
- Dexamethasone treatment increased G beta mRNA levels by 50% and reversed the decline caused by adrenalectomy.
Conclusions:
- Glucocorticoids regulate the steady-state levels of G beta mRNA in rat fat cells.
- Adrenal status significantly influences G beta gene expression in adipocytes.