A macromolecular complex of β(2) adrenergic receptor, CFTR, and ezrin/radixin/moesin-binding phosphoprotein 50 is regulated by PKA

It has been demonstrated previously that both the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) and β(2) adrenergic receptor (β(2)AR) can bind ezrin/radixin/moesin-binding phosphoprotein 50 (EBP50, also referred to as NHERF) through their PDZ motifs. Here, we show that β(2) is the major adrenergic receptor isoform expressed in airway epithelia and that it colocalizes with CFTR at the apical membrane. β(2)AR stimulation increases CFTR activity, in airway epithelial cells, that is glybenclamide sensitive. Deletion of the PDZ motif from CFTR uncouples the channel from the receptor both physically and functionally. This uncoupling is specific to the β(2)AR receptor and does not affect CFTR coupling to other receptors (e.g., adenosine receptor pathway). Biochemical studies demonstrate the existence of a macromolecular complex involving CFTR-EBP50-β(2)AR through PDZ-based interactions. Assembly of the complex is regulated by PKA-dependent phosphorylation. Deleting the regulatory domain of CFTR abolishes PKA regulation of complex assembly. This report summarizes a macromolecular signaling complex involving CFTR, the implications of which may be relevant to CFTR-dysfunction diseases.