GPR15LG binds CXCR4 and synergistically modulates CXCL12-induced cell signaling and migration
Dan Pascal Jean Albers1, Sofya Novikova1, Julio Vieyto-Nuñez2
1Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081, Ulm, Germany.
Background:
GPR15LG, a chemokine-like ligand for the G-protein coupled receptor 15 (GPR15), is abundantly expressed in the gastrointestinal mucosa and inflamed skin. Emerging evidence suggests its involvement in inflammatory disorders and cancers. C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) plays a critical role in immune cell trafficking and cancer metastasis. Recent evidence suggests a connection between GPR15LG and CXCR4 signaling, which has not been investigated so far.
Methods:
We investigated the effects of GPR15LG on CXCR4 signaling and downstream functions. Binding assays and computational modeling were performed to assess the interaction between GPR15LG and CXCR4. Functional assays, including wound healing and cell migration assays, were conducted across various cell types, including CD4⁺ T cells and cancer cells, to evaluate the impact of GPR15LG on CXCL12-mediated CXCR4 signaling.
Results:
The results demonstrate that GPR15LG binds to the orthosteric site of CXCR4, modulating downstream signaling in a context-dependent manner. Specifically, GPR15LG enhances CXCL12-mediated CXCR4 signaling synergistically, promoting wound healing and cell migration across various cell types, including CD4 + T cells and cancer cells.
Conclusions:
These findings underscore the role of GPR15LG in inflammation and metastasis, offering potential therapeutic avenues for CXCR4-mediated diseases.
Related Concept Videos
Cell Polarization by Rho Proteins
GPCR Desensitization
G Protein-coupled Receptors
GPCRs are also called heptahelical, 7TM, or serpentine receptors, and consist of seven (H1-H7) transmembrane alpha-helices that span the bilayer to form a cylindrical core. The transmembrane helices are connected by three extracellular loops and three...
Small GTPases - Ras and Rho
Three regulatory proteins control their activity:
GPCRs Regulate Adenylyl Cylase Activity
Transducer Mechanism: G Protein–Coupled Receptors
GPCRs are also called heptahelical,...


