Multiple Ca2+-Binding Sites in the Extracellular Domain of the Ca2+-Sensing Receptor Corresponding to Cooperative Ca2+ Response

A small change in the extracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+].) integrates cell signaling responses in multiple cellular and tissue networks and functions via activation of Ca2+-sensing receptors (CaSR). Mainly through binding of Ca2+ to the large extracellular domain (ECD) of the dimeric CaSR, intracellular Ca2+ responses are highly cooperative with an apparent Hill coefficient ranging from 2 to 4. We have previously reported the identification of two continuous putative Ca2+-binding sites by grafting CaSR-derived, Ca2+-binding peptides to a scaffold protein, CD2, that does not bind Ca2+. In this paper, we predict more potential noncontinuous Ca2+-binding sites in the ECD. We dissect the intact CaSR into three globular subdomains each of which contains two to three predicted Ca2+-binding sites. This approach enables us to further understand the mechanisms underlying the binding of multiple metal ions to extended polypeptides derived from a location within the ECD of the CaSR, which would be anticipated to more closely mimic the structure of the native CaSR ECD. Tb3+ luminescence energy transfer, ANS fluorescence, and NMR studies show biphasic metal-binding components and Ca2+-dependent conformational changes in these subdomains. Removing the predicted Ca2+-binding ligands in site 1 and site 3 abolishes the first binding step and second binding step, respectively. Studies on these subdomains suggest the existence of multiple metal-binding sites and metal-induced conformational changes that might be responsible for the switching on and off the CaSR by the transition between its open inactive form and closed active form.