Non-canonical internalization mechanisms of mGlu receptors

Cell surface G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are tightly regulated through constitutive and agonist-induced internalization. While the mechanisms of constitutive internalization remain elusive, agonist-induced internalization very often involves receptor phosphorylation by GPCR kinases (GRKs) and β-arrestin recruitment. Dimeric class C metabotropic glutamate (mGlu1-mGlu8) receptors regulate synaptic transmission, but their internalization process remains ambiguous. Here, using diffusion-enhanced energy transfer (DERET), we show that mGlu receptors undergo constitutive internalization that mostly relies on β-arrestins. However, only mGlu1, mGlu5, and mGlu3 homodimers and mGlu2-3 heterodimers undergo agonist-induced internalization. This process depends on protein adaptor complex 2 (AP2) but still occurs in the absence of GRKs or β-arrestins, with the latter acting as fine-tuners. This systematic study further highlights how class C receptors differ from other GPCRs, revealing non-canonical internalization mechanisms that remain to be characterized. These insights into mGlu receptor dynamics will contribute to the development of therapeutic strategies targeting mGlu receptors.