G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55) is highly expressed in brain and peripheral nervous system. Originally deorphanized as a cannabinoid receptor, recently GPR55 has been described as a lysophospholipid-responsive receptor, specifically toward lysophosphatidylinositol and lysophosphatidyl-β-D-glucoside (LysoPtdGlc). To characterize lysolipid-GPR55 interaction, synthetic access to LysoPtdGlc and selected analogues was established utilizing a phosphorus(III)-based chemical approach. The biological activity of each synthetic lipid was assessed using a GPR55-dependent chemotropism assay in primary sensory neurons. Combined with molecular dynamics simulations the potential ligand entry port and binding pocket specifics are discussed. These results highlight the preference for gluco-over inositol-and galacto-configured headgroups.

The endogenous cannabinoid system plays important roles in the retina of mice and monkeys via their classic CB1 and CB2 receptors. We have previously reported that the G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55), a putative cannabinoid receptor, is exclusively expressed in rod photoreceptors in the monkey retina, suggesting its possible role in scotopic vision. To test this hypothesis, we recorded full-field electroretinograms (ERGs) after the intravitreal injection of the GPR55 agonist lysophosphatidylglucoside (LPG) or the selective GPR55 antagonist CID16020046 (CID), under light- and dark-adapted conditions. Thirteen vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus sabaeus) were used in this study: four controls (injected with the vehicle dimethyl sulfoxide, DMSO), four injected with LPG and five with CID. We analyzed amplitudes and latencies of the a-wave (photoreceptor responses) and the b-wave (rod and cone system responses) of the ERG. Our results showed that after injection of LPG, the amplitude of the scotopic b-wave was significantly higher, whereas after the injection of CID, it was significantly decreased, compared to the vehicle (DMSO). On the other hand, the a-wave amplitude, and the a-wave and b-wave latencies, of the scotopic ERG responses were not significantly affected by the injection of either compound. Furthermore, the photopic ERG waveforms were not affected by either drug. These results support the hypothesis that GPR55 plays an instrumental role in mediating scotopic vision.