Structures of neurokinin 1 receptor in complex with Gq and Gs proteins reveal substance P binding mode and unique activation features

The neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1R) is involved in inflammation and pain transmission. This pathophysiologically important G protein-coupled receptor is predominantly activated by its cognate agonist substance P (SP) but also by the closely related neurokinins A and B. Here, we report cryo-electron microscopy structures of SP-bound NK1R in complex with its primary downstream signal mediators, G(q) and G(s). Our structures reveal how a polar network at the extracellular, solvent-exposed receptor surface shapes the orthosteric pocket and that NK1R adopts a noncanonical active-state conformation with an interface for G protein binding, which is distinct from previously reported structures. Detailed comparisons with antagonist-bound NK1R crystal structures reveal that insurmountable antagonists induce a distinct and long-lasting receptor conformation that sterically blocks SP binding. Together, our structures provide important structural insights into ligand and G protein promiscuity, the lack of basal signaling, and agonist- and antagonist-induced conformations in the neurokinin receptor family.

Automated summary

The study reveals the structures of the neurokinin 1 receptor bound to its downstream signal mediators G(q) and G(s), as well as the conformational changes of the receptor under different ligand and antagonist actions.