Proteopedia - User contributions [en]

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-05-01T00:32:14Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right'caption='[[9BQI]], [[Resolution|resolution]] 2.55Å' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens]. Sequence data available from [https://www.uniprot.org/uniprotkb/Q99571/entry UniProt].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID:28993732</ref>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Preformed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>annular lipids</scene> suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

Studying P2X receptors is of broad relevance because these channels sit at the nexus of extracellular ATP signaling and rapid cellular responses in virtually every organ system. By mediating cation flux in response to ATP, P2X receptors regulate synaptic transmission, sensory perception, and immune activation on the scale of milliseconds. Dysfunction of P2X signaling underlies pathologies as diverse as chronic pain, neuroinflammation, and hypertension. A deep understanding of P2X receptor structure–function relationships therefore not only illuminates fundamental mechanisms of purinergic signaling but also identifies molecular gateways for therapeutic intervention.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-05-01T00:30:20Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqh' size='340' side='right'caption='[[9BQI]], [[Resolution|resolution]] 2.55Å' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens]. Sequence data available from [https://www.uniprot.org/uniprotkb/Q99571/entry UniProt].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID:28993732</ref>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Preformed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>annular lipids</scene> suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

Studying P2X receptors is of broad relevance because these channels sit at the nexus of extracellular ATP signaling and rapid cellular responses in virtually every organ system. By mediating cation flux in response to ATP, P2X receptors regulate synaptic transmission, sensory perception, and immune activation on the scale of milliseconds. Dysfunction of P2X signaling underlies pathologies as diverse as chronic pain, neuroinflammation, and hypertension. A deep understanding of P2X receptor structure–function relationships therefore not only illuminates fundamental mechanisms of purinergic signaling but also identifies molecular gateways for therapeutic intervention.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-05-01T00:22:22Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection <scene name='10/1079390/Whole/1'></scene>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens]. Sequence data available from [https://www.uniprot.org/uniprotkb/Q99571/entry UniProt].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID:28993732</ref>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Preformed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>annular lipids</scene> suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

Studying P2X receptors is of broad relevance because these channels sit at the nexus of extracellular ATP signaling and rapid cellular responses in virtually every organ system. By mediating cation flux in response to ATP, P2X receptors regulate synaptic transmission, sensory perception, and immune activation on the scale of milliseconds. Dysfunction of P2X signaling underlies pathologies as diverse as chronic pain, neuroinflammation, and hypertension. A deep understanding of P2X receptor structure–function relationships therefore not only illuminates fundamental mechanisms of purinergic signaling but also identifies molecular gateways for therapeutic intervention.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-05-01T00:22:00Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection <scene name='10/1079390/Whole/1'>TextToBeDisplayed</scene> size='300' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI'
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens]. Sequence data available from [https://www.uniprot.org/uniprotkb/Q99571/entry UniProt].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID:28993732</ref>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Preformed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>annular lipids</scene> suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

Studying P2X receptors is of broad relevance because these channels sit at the nexus of extracellular ATP signaling and rapid cellular responses in virtually every organ system. By mediating cation flux in response to ATP, P2X receptors regulate synaptic transmission, sensory perception, and immune activation on the scale of milliseconds. Dysfunction of P2X signaling underlies pathologies as diverse as chronic pain, neuroinflammation, and hypertension. A deep understanding of P2X receptor structure–function relationships therefore not only illuminates fundamental mechanisms of purinergic signaling but also identifies molecular gateways for therapeutic intervention.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-05-01T00:20:44Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='300' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=<scene name='10/1079390/Whole/1'></scene>>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens]. Sequence data available from [https://www.uniprot.org/uniprotkb/Q99571/entry UniProt].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID:28993732</ref>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Preformed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>annular lipids</scene> suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

Studying P2X receptors is of broad relevance because these channels sit at the nexus of extracellular ATP signaling and rapid cellular responses in virtually every organ system. By mediating cation flux in response to ATP, P2X receptors regulate synaptic transmission, sensory perception, and immune activation on the scale of milliseconds. Dysfunction of P2X signaling underlies pathologies as diverse as chronic pain, neuroinflammation, and hypertension. A deep understanding of P2X receptor structure–function relationships therefore not only illuminates fundamental mechanisms of purinergic signaling but also identifies molecular gateways for therapeutic intervention.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-05-01T00:19:48Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='300' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=<scene name='10/1079390/Whole/1'></scene>''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens]. Sequence data available from [https://www.uniprot.org/uniprotkb/Q99571/entry UniProt].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID:28993732</ref>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Preformed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>annular lipids</scene> suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

Studying P2X receptors is of broad relevance because these channels sit at the nexus of extracellular ATP signaling and rapid cellular responses in virtually every organ system. By mediating cation flux in response to ATP, P2X receptors regulate synaptic transmission, sensory perception, and immune activation on the scale of milliseconds. Dysfunction of P2X signaling underlies pathologies as diverse as chronic pain, neuroinflammation, and hypertension. A deep understanding of P2X receptor structure–function relationships therefore not only illuminates fundamental mechanisms of purinergic signaling but also identifies molecular gateways for therapeutic intervention.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-05-01T00:04:30Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='300' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens]. Sequence data available from [https://www.uniprot.org/uniprotkb/Q99571/entry UniProt].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID:28993732</ref>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Preformed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>annular lipids</scene> suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

Studying P2X receptors is of broad relevance because these channels sit at the nexus of extracellular ATP signaling and rapid cellular responses in virtually every organ system. By mediating cation flux in response to ATP, P2X receptors regulate synaptic transmission, sensory perception, and immune activation on the scale of milliseconds. Dysfunction of P2X signaling underlies pathologies as diverse as chronic pain, neuroinflammation, and hypertension. A deep understanding of P2X receptor structure–function relationships therefore not only illuminates fundamental mechanisms of purinergic signaling but also identifies molecular gateways for therapeutic intervention.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-05-01T00:02:07Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens]. Sequence data available from [https://www.uniprot.org/uniprotkb/Q99571/entry UniProt].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID:28993732</ref>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Preformed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>annular lipids</scene> suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

Studying P2X receptors is of broad relevance because these channels sit at the nexus of extracellular ATP signaling and rapid cellular responses in virtually every organ system. By mediating cation flux in response to ATP, P2X receptors regulate synaptic transmission, sensory perception, and immune activation on the scale of milliseconds. Dysfunction of P2X signaling underlies pathologies as diverse as chronic pain, neuroinflammation, and hypertension. A deep understanding of P2X receptor structure–function relationships therefore not only illuminates fundamental mechanisms of purinergic signaling but also identifies molecular gateways for therapeutic intervention.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T23:31:32Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens]. Sequence data available from [https://www.uniprot.org/uniprotkb/Q99571/entry UniProt].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID:28993732</ref>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Preformed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>annular lipids</scene> suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

Studying P2X receptors is of broad relevance because these channels sit at the nexus of extracellular ATP signaling and rapid cellular responses in virtually every organ system. By mediating cation flux in response to ATP, P2X receptors regulate synaptic transmission, sensory perception, and immune activation on the scale of milliseconds. Dysfunction of P2X signaling underlies pathologies as diverse as chronic pain, neuroinflammation, and hypertension. A deep understanding of P2X receptor structure–function relationships therefore not only illuminates fundamental mechanisms of purinergic signaling but also identifies molecular gateways for therapeutic intervention.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T23:31:15Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens]. Sequence data available from [https://www.uniprot.org/uniprotkb/Q99571/entry UniProt]
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID:28993732</ref>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Preformed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>annular lipids</scene> suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

Studying P2X receptors is of broad relevance because these channels sit at the nexus of extracellular ATP signaling and rapid cellular responses in virtually every organ system. By mediating cation flux in response to ATP, P2X receptors regulate synaptic transmission, sensory perception, and immune activation on the scale of milliseconds. Dysfunction of P2X signaling underlies pathologies as diverse as chronic pain, neuroinflammation, and hypertension. A deep understanding of P2X receptor structure–function relationships therefore not only illuminates fundamental mechanisms of purinergic signaling but also identifies molecular gateways for therapeutic intervention.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T23:28:10Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID:28993732</ref>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Preformed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>annular lipids</scene> suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

Studying P2X receptors is of broad relevance because these channels sit at the nexus of extracellular ATP signaling and rapid cellular responses in virtually every organ system. By mediating cation flux in response to ATP, P2X receptors regulate synaptic transmission, sensory perception, and immune activation on the scale of milliseconds. Dysfunction of P2X signaling underlies pathologies as diverse as chronic pain, neuroinflammation, and hypertension. A deep understanding of P2X receptor structure–function relationships therefore not only illuminates fundamental mechanisms of purinergic signaling but also identifies molecular gateways for therapeutic intervention.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T23:27:22Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID=28993732</ref>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Preformed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>annular lipids</scene> suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

Studying P2X receptors is of broad relevance because these channels sit at the nexus of extracellular ATP signaling and rapid cellular responses in virtually every organ system. By mediating cation flux in response to ATP, P2X receptors regulate synaptic transmission, sensory perception, and immune activation on the scale of milliseconds. Dysfunction of P2X signaling underlies pathologies as diverse as chronic pain, neuroinflammation, and hypertension. A deep understanding of P2X receptor structure–function relationships therefore not only illuminates fundamental mechanisms of purinergic signaling but also identifies molecular gateways for therapeutic intervention.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T23:26:47Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID= 28993732</ref>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Preformed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>annular lipids</scene> suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

Studying P2X receptors is of broad relevance because these channels sit at the nexus of extracellular ATP signaling and rapid cellular responses in virtually every organ system. By mediating cation flux in response to ATP, P2X receptors regulate synaptic transmission, sensory perception, and immune activation on the scale of milliseconds. Dysfunction of P2X signaling underlies pathologies as diverse as chronic pain, neuroinflammation, and hypertension. A deep understanding of P2X receptor structure–function relationships therefore not only illuminates fundamental mechanisms of purinergic signaling but also identifies molecular gateways for therapeutic intervention.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T23:22:02Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Preformed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>annular lipids</scene> suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

Studying P2X receptors is of broad relevance because these channels sit at the nexus of extracellular ATP signaling and rapid cellular responses in virtually every organ system. By mediating cation flux in response to ATP, P2X receptors regulate synaptic transmission, sensory perception, and immune activation on the scale of milliseconds. Dysfunction of P2X signaling underlies pathologies as diverse as chronic pain, neuroinflammation, and hypertension. A deep understanding of P2X receptor structure–function relationships therefore not only illuminates fundamental mechanisms of purinergic signaling but also identifies molecular gateways for therapeutic intervention.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T23:16:41Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Preformed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>annular lipids</scene> suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T23:12:25Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>Pre-formed cytoplasmic cap</scene>: Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “cytoplasmic cap” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for annular lipids suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The <scene name='10/1079390/P6e/1'>antagonist</scene>-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T23:05:13Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>Pre-formed cytoplasmic cap</scene>: Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “cytoplasmic cap” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for annular lipids suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The antagonist-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T23:04:32Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

<scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>'''Pre-formed cytoplasmic cap'''</scene>: Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “cytoplasmic cap” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for annular lipids suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by <scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>N-glycosylation</scene> in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The antagonist-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T23:02:29Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

'''Pre-formed cytoplasmic cap''': Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “cytoplasmic cap” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it.

'''Lipid stabilization of desensitization''': Functional assays and density for annular lipids suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness.

'''Post-translational modifications''': P2X₄ is decorated by N-glycosylation in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics.

'''Unique allosteric pocket''': The antagonist-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T23:01:21Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane</scene> helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP‐binding loop</scene>, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

===Structural insights from cryo-EM studies===
Cryo-electron microscopy of full-length human P2X₄ has suggested how intracellular elements and lipids shape gating and desensitization:

Pre-formed cytoplasmic cap: Structures of the apo-closed and antagonist-bound inhibited states reveal an intact “cytoplasmic cap” prior to ATP binding, indicating that cap formation precedes activation rather than resulting from it

Lipid stabilization of desensitization: Functional assays and density for annular lipids suggest that specific lipid–protein interactions stabilize the cytoplasmic cap, slowing the transition to the desensitized state and thus modulating receptor responsiveness

Post-translational modifications: P2X₄ is decorated by N-glycosylation in the extracellular vestibule and palmitoylation on intracellular residues, modifications that likely influence trafficking, lipid interactions, and gating dynamics

Unique allosteric pocket: The antagonist-bound inhibited structure uncovers a human-specific allosteric ligand-binding pocket at the subunit interface, offering a template for design of subtype-selective small-molecule modulators of P2X₄ and potentially other P2X receptors

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:51:08Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.
===Structure and Function===
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:49:45Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.

Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North (2016)<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:47:22Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.

Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North, 2016<ref name="overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:46:53Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.

Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left|thumb| Open/closed ion channel of [[9bqi]]. Adapted from North, 2016<ref name'"overview"/>.]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:43:29Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.

Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left]]
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.

P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:43:02Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.

Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.

Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|400px|left]]
P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:42:46Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.

Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.

Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg|200px|left]]
P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:41:55Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.

Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.

Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.
[[Image:Openclose.jpg]]
P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

File:Openclose.jpg

2025-04-30T22:41:00Z

Max McClure:

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:31:11Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.

Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.

Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.
P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref name="overview"/>.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:30:43Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.

Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"/>.

Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.
P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID: 27377721</ref>.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:29:44Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|200px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.

Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"></ref>.

Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.
P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID: 27377721</ref>.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:29:28Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|300px|right|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.

Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"></ref>.

Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.
P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID: 27377721</ref>.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:29:13Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|300px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID:27377721</ref>.

Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"></ref>.

Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.
P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID: 27377721</ref>.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:27:13Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|300px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref name="overview">PMID: 27377721</ref>.

Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref name="overview"></ref>.

Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.
P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID: 27377721</ref>.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:23:57Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|300px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref>PMID: 27377721</ref>.

Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore<ref>PMID: 27377721</ref>.

Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.
P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover<ref>PMID: 27377721</ref>.

<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:22:55Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|300px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties<ref>PMID: 27377721</ref>.
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore.
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.
P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover.

P2X receptors are non-selective cation channels, permeable to potassium, sodium and calcium, and gated by extracellular ATP. Functions in the immune system and nervous system physiology; acts in initial steps of T-cell activation, basal T-cell activity, promotes differentiation/activation of Th17 cells by expression of C/RORC receptor, and calcium micro-domain formation. Drives microglia motility by PI3K/Akt pathway.
<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
</div>

== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
<references/>

Full-length human P2X4 receptor in the closed state

2025-04-30T22:20:28Z

Max McClure:

==Structure==
<StructureSection load='9bqi' size='340' side='right' caption='PBD ID: 9BQI' scene=''>
<table><tr><td colspan='2'> [https://www.rcsb.org/structure/9BQI 9BQI] is a homo-trimer structure, solved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_sapiens Homo sapiens].
</td></tr><tr id='method'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Empirical_models|Method:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="methodDat">Electron Microscopy, [[Resolution|Resolution]] 2.55Å</td></tr>
<tr id='ligand'><td class="sblockLbl"><b>[[Ligand|Ligands:]]</b></td><td class="sblockDat" id="ligandDat"><scene name='pdbligand=BMA:BETA-D-MANNOSE'>BMA</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=LMT:DODECYL-BETA-D-MALTOSIDE'>LMT</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=NAG:N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINE'>NAG</scene>, <scene name='pdbligand=P6E:N-[4-(3-chloranylphenoxy)-3-sulfamoyl-phenyl]-2-phenyl-ethanamide'>P6E</scene></td></tr>
</table>
[[Image:Screenshot_2025-04-30_at_18.10.42.png|300px|left|thumb|]]
== Function ==
===Background===
P2X receptors are a family of ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They mediate rapid purinergic signaling by allowing cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane. Seven mammalian P2X subunits (P2X₁–P2X₇) assemble as homo‐ or heterotrimers to form channels with distinct kinetic and pharmacological properties.
Each P2X subunit is ~380 amino acids long, featuring two transmembrane helices (TM1 and TM2), a large extracellular ATP‐binding loop, and intracellular N‐ and C‐termini. Upon assembly, three subunits arrange around a central pore. ATP binds at intersubunit clefts in the extracellular domain, inducing conformational changes that open the pore.
Binding of two to three ATP molecules triggers channel opening within milliseconds, permitting rapid cation influx. The initial current is predominantly Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ inward current, followed by a slower “desensitization” or “pore dilation” phase in certain subtypes (notably P2X₇), which can lead to larger pore formation and prolonged permeability to larger organic cations.
P2X receptors are widely expressed in nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Key functions include: Neurotransmission: P2X₃ in sensory neurons mediates pain perception.
Inflammation and immune response: P2X₇ activation promotes cytokine release and cell death in macrophages. Muscle contraction: P2X₁ in smooth muscle contributes to vasoconstriction and bladder control. Bone remodeling: P2X₇ in osteoblasts and osteoclasts regulates bone turnover.

P2X receptors are non-selective cation channels, permeable to potassium, sodium and calcium, and gated by extracellular ATP. Functions in the immune system and nervous system physiology; acts in initial steps of T-cell activation, basal T-cell activity, promotes differentiation/activation of Th17 cells by expression of C/RORC receptor, and calcium micro-domain formation. Drives microglia motility by PI3K/Akt pathway.
<div style="background-color:#FAF2F1;">
== Publication Abstract ==
P2X receptors (P2XRs) are adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channels comprising homomeric and heteromeric trimers of seven subtypes (P2X1-P2X7) that confer different rates of desensitization. The helical recoil model of P2XR desensitization proposes stability of the cytoplasmic cap sets the rate of desensitization, but timing of its formation is unclear for slow-desensitizing P2XRs. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of full-length wild-type human P2X4 receptor in apo closed, antagonist-bound inhibited, and ATP-bound desensitized states. Because the apo closed and antagonist-bound inhibited state structures of this slow-desensitizing P2XR include an intact cytoplasmic cap while the ATP-bound desensitized state structure does not, the cytoplasmic cap is formed before agonist binding. Furthermore, structural and functional data suggest the cytoplasmic cap is stabilized by lipids to modulate desensitization, and P2X4 is modified by glycosylation and palmitoylation. Last, our antagonist-bound inhibited state structure reveals features specific to the allosteric ligand-binding pocket in human receptors that facilitates development of small-molecule modulators.

Human P2X4 receptor gating is modulated by a stable cytoplasmic cap and a unique allosteric pocket.,Shi H, Ditter IA, Oken AC, Mansoor SE Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 17;11(3):eadr3315. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3315. Epub 2025 Jan , 17. PMID:39823330<ref>PMID:39823330</ref>

MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.<br>
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== Relevance ==

== Structural highlights ==

P2X4 receptors have a characteristic <scene name='10/1079390/Trans_domain/2'>transmembrane domain</scene> domain, which localizes around <scene name='10/1079390/Lmt/4'>LMT</scene> in this structure. The protein interacts with the interior of the cell via a stable <scene name='10/1079390/Cap/2'>cytoplasmic cap</scene>, stabilized via lipids. This structure is ATP gated, and has three extracellular <scene name='10/1079390/Atp_bind/2'>ATP binding sites</scene>, which changes the receptor <scene name='10/1079390/Change/1'>conformation</scene> drastically. In this ATP-bound state, the receptor allows for cations to flow into the cytoplasm.

The receptor has a significant extracellular domain. This domain is stabilized via numerous <scene name='10/1079390/Disulfides/1'>disulfide bonds</scene>, and<scene name='10/1079390/Carbo/1'>glycosylation</scene>.

</StructureSection>
== References ==
North RA. P2X receptors. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2016;371(1700):20150427.
Burnstock G. Purinergic signalling: therapeutic developments. Front Pharmacol. 2017;8:661.
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