The in vitro-synthesized precursor and mature mitochondrial aspartate aminotransferase share the same import pathway in isolated mitochondria

Both the precursor and the mature form of mitochondrial aspartate aminotransferase were synthesized in a cell-free coupled transcription/translation system directed by the recombinant expression plasmid pOTS-pmAspAT and pOTS-mAspAT, respectively. Both newly synthesized forms of the protein were imported into isolated mitochondria, with the precursor correctly processed to the mature form. In both cases the import process showed resistance to externally added pronase and was abolished in mitochondria treated with the uncoupler carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone. Moreover the imported products showed the same intramitochondrial localization as judged by a subfractionation procedure. In both cases import was time dependent and was completed in about 15 min. Finally a competitive inhibition of the import of the precursor of aspartate aminotransferase was found due to externally added purified aspartate aminotransferase.

On the spontaneous adherence of myelin basic protein to T lymphocytes

We have applied a double tagging system in order to study whether purified myelin basic protein is able to adhere to normal human peripheral T lymphocytes without the need to purify cells. Evaluation of myelin basic protein adherence to peripheral blood mononuclear cells was determined with biotinylated myelin basic protein and fluoresceinated avidin, and lymphocyte population was identified by the corresponding phycoerythrinated monoclonal antibody. The observed adherence of myelin basic protein to T lymphocytes was found to depend on protein conformation.

Helium-neon laser irradiation of rat liver mitochondria gives rise to a new subpopulation of mitochondria: isolation and first biochemical characterization

An experiment was performed to isolate the small atypical mitochondria produced during the irradiation of normal mitochondria with an He-Ne laser. Rat liver mitochondria were irradiated with a low-power continuous-wave He-Ne laser (energy dose, 5 J cm-2), followed by isolation using a sucrose gradient. In the irradiated sample, two bands were observed, one corresponding to normal mitochondria and the other to atypical mitochondria. Certain biochemical features of the mitochondria were investigated: mitochondrial enzyme activity and the presence of DNA and RNA were demonstrated. Hybridization experiments carried out with labelled mitochondrial probes, containing the genes for cytochrome oxidase subunit I and 12S rRNA, confirmed the mitochondrial nature of the isolated RNA.

[35S]methionine interaction with rat liver tRNA and effect of chemical carcinogens

The interaction of [35S]methionine with hepatic tRNA in normal, carcinogen-treated, and partially hepatectomized rats was studied. tRNA was preferentially labeled following [35S]methionine (1.6 mCi, 25 mg/kg body wt) administration by intraperitoneal injection. The extent of [35S]methionine-tRNA interaction was impaired by partial hepatectomy and by conditions having a carcinogenic potential.

Transitory DNA hypomethylation during liver cell proliferation induced by a single dose of lead nitrate

In the present study we have examined the effect of a single dose of the mitogen lead nitrate (75 mumols/kg body wt) on the methylation status of hepatic DNA in male Wistar rats. It was found that extensive hypomethylation of hepatic DNA occurs in mitogen-treated rat liver. This effect could be seen as early as 12 h after metal treatment and parallels the changes in liver weight. Probing with the methylation-sensitive enzymes HpaII, MspI, and HaeIII confirmed HPLC analyses and showed that methylation at these sites was affected by lead treatment. DNA hypomethylation has already been found in regenerating rat liver and in hepatic (pre)malignant lesions when compared to normal nondividing liver. Thus the lowering of the DNA 5-methylcytosine content appears to be a property characteristic of cellular proliferation, regardless of whether it is caused by partial hepatectomy, carcinogen treatments, or mitogen administration.

Purification of lipid-associated basic protein from guinea pig spinal-cord myelin

Myelin basic protein (MBP) was purified from guinea pig spinal-cord in a native-like form retaining the binding to all the myelin lipids. Since the guinea pig MBP was found to be much more labile than the corresponding MBP from bovine brain, the original procedure based on the use of hydroxyapatite and detergents was slightly modified as reported here. The product of this purification, lipid-bound MBP, may represent an alternative to lipid-free MBP for the induction, the study and the treatment of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis.

Zinc as an inhibitor of myelin basic protein proteolytic breakdown in the central nervous system

It is known that central nervous system myelin contains proteolytic enzymes which degrade the myelin basic protein (MBP). We have found that zinc acetate is able to inhibit MBP cleavage at concentrations of 1 mM or higher. Furthermore, the Zn-inhibitable MBP-degrading activity was found to be water-soluble and able to recognize MBP also if this protein was protected by its lipidic environment in the native-like, lipid-bound form. Data presented here suggest a Zn-dependent metallo-protease which recognize MBP as a substrate probably even in the myelin sheath, when the protein is not yet released from the membrane.

Spontaneous adhesiveness of lipid-free myelin basic protein to immune cells as detected by a double labelling technique

We have investigated whether immunocompetent cells have the capacity to interact directly with the myelin basic protein (MBP) of the central nervous system. To this end we have applied a double tagging system in order to study whether purified lipid-free MBP is able to bind to normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) without the need to purify the cells. Evaluation of MBP binding to PBMC was determined with biotinylated MBP and fluoresceinated avidin, and lymphocytes population was identified by the corresponding phycoerythrinated monoclonal antibody (MoAb). The contemporary use of MoAbs and avidin unambiguously showed that MBP is able to bind to both B and T lymphocytes. The biological significance of MBP adherence to immune cells still needs clarification.

Interaction of cations with lipid-free myelin basic protein. A spectroscopy study

The interaction of some divalent cations with myelin basic protein (MBP) in buffer and in model membranes was studied by using the static fluorescence of the intrinsic tryptophan residue of the protein. Results were indicative of Zn++ ability to bind to MBP. The observed binding could facilitate the interaction of MBP with lipids and have a role in stabilizing the myelin sheath.

Lipid-bound, native-like, myelin basic protein. Batch-wise preparation and perspectives for use in demyelinating diseases

Batch purification of the myelin basic protein (MBP) in the lipid-bound form was obtained from bovine brain white matter by using the slightly polydisperse nonionic detergent, n-octyl-pentaoxyethylene (octyl-POE) and hydroxyapatite. This large-scale procedure can also be carried out in laboratories without chromatographic equipment, and is applicable to small amounts of myelin. More interestingly, removal and inhibition of the proteolytic activity associated with myelin allowed us to obtain more stable and intact forms of the protein when compared with MBP isolated in the lipid-bound form by our previous method. Since it retains binding to all myelin lipids, this purified MBP may be considered as being in a native-like form. In this article, we suggest why this more intact form of MBP could be used to advantage as an alternative to lipid-free, water-soluble MBP in the study, detection, and treatment of myelin damage in pathology.

Ornithine/phosphate antiport in rat kidney mitochondria. Some characteristics of the process

[14C]Ornithine uptake by rat kidney mitochondria has been investigated according to the stop inhibitor method by using praseodimium chloride as an inhibitor. The existence of an ornithine/Pi exchange was found occurring with 1:1 stoichiometry. Both uptake and efflux follow first-order kinetics with a k of 2.4 min-1. Uptake increases with increasing pH. The activation energy for the process is 58.6 kJ/mol and Q10 is 2.6. Ornithine/Pi exchange is electrical and energy-dependent, as suggested by the sensitivity of the process to the ionophores valinomycin and nigericin. Measurements both of proton movement across the mitochondrial membrane and of membrane potential strongly suggest that ornithine uptake into mitochondria is driven by the electrochemical proton gradient via the dependent ornithine/Pi translocator and delta pH-dependent Pi carrier.

Carrier thiols are targets of Photofrin II photosensitization of isolated rat liver mitochondria

To gain further insight into the ability of Photofrin II to photosensitize mitochondrial translocators, and to ascertain whether mitochondrial thiols are specific targets of Photofrin II, the activity of phosphate carrier was measured in isolated rat liver mitochondria irradiated with 365 nm light in the presence of Photofrin II. Photodynamic treatment decreased the maximum rate of phosphate uptake, without changing the phosphate affinity for its own carrier. The ability of the thiol reagent mersalyl (an inhibitor of phosphate, dicarboxylate and oxodicarboxylate carriers) to protect these carriers against Photofrin II photosensitization was also tested. Protection was observed, indicating the involvement of carrier thiols in mitochondrial photosensitization.

Exchange of free cholesterol between plasma and erythrocytes from hyperthyroid and hypothyroid rats in vitro

In our previous studies, we found that circulating thyroid hormone levels alter cholesterol partition between plasma and erythrocytes by changing the phospholipid content of erythrocytes (Ruggiero, F. M., et al. (1984) Horm. Metabol. Res. 16, 37-40; Ruggiero, F. M., et al. (1987) Lipids 22, 148-151). As an extension of this work, we now followed the exchange of free cholesterol between plasma and erythrocytes in control, hyperthyroid and hypothyroid rats under various experimental conditions in vitro. In control rats, erythrocytes incubated with plasma at 37 degrees C for 4 hr lose 10% of cholesterol which was esterified by lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) present in the plasma. In hyperthyroid rats, erythrocytes incubated with plasma lose 30% of cholesterol within the same time. By contrast, in the case of hypothyroid rats incubation for 4 hr was necessary to transfer 24% of free cholesterol from plasma to erythrocytes. Inhibition of cholesterol esterification did not affect the loss of erythrocyte cholesterol in control and in hyperthyroid rats. Ca2+ increased the LCAT activity in the plasma of these rats. The findings shed light on the role of thyroid hormones in regulating cholesterol levels in plasma through active cholesterol transfer between plasma and erythrocytes.

Spin labeling of calcium-dependent phospholipid-binding proteins

Bovine lung annexins p32 and p34 were spin labeled with an iodoacetamidoproxyl spin label, a reagent that reportedly couples with protein methionine residues. Labeling conditions and stoichiometry were studied with the radiolabeled analogue [1-14C]iodoacetamide. As judged by this method, carboxamidomethylation of both p32 and p34 occurred up to a 0.7 mol ratio after 60 h of reaction at 37 degrees C and at pH 4. The two proteins retained Ca2(+)-dependent phospholipid-binding ability both in radiolabeled and in spin-labeled forms. Electron resonance spectra of spin-labeled p32 and p34 showed the features of a partially immobilized spin probe, with rotational correlation time values of 1.15 and 1.25 ns, respectively, which definitely indicate successful spin labeling. Quantitation of ESR spectra by computer double integration indicated 70% spin labeling of both proteins, as anticipated by radiolabeling. The use of spin-labeled p32 and p34 in the study of Ca2(+)-dependent interaction of annexins with biomembranes is proposed.

Thiamine pyrophosphate uptake into isolated rat liver mitochondria

The fact that thiamine pyrophosphate is synthesized in cytosol necessitates its uptake into mitochondria. The ability of mitochondria to take up externally added thiamine pyrophosphate was investigated by measuring the intramitochondrial thiamine pyrophosphate content using an enzymatic method. Thiamine pyrophosphate uptake by isolated rat liver mitochondria was found to occur in a time- and temperature-dependent manner. Uptake shows saturation characteristics with Km and Vmax values equal to about 20 microM and 700 pmol/min x mg protein, respectively, and is inhibited by certain nonpenetrating compounds. The inhibition of thiamine uptake by thiamine pyrophosphate and the efflux of endogenous thiamine pyrophosphate, caused by externally added thiamine, suggest the existence of a thiamine pyrophosphate/thiamine antiporter which could play an active role in the turnover of intramitochondrial thiamine pyrophosphate linked enzymes.

Effect of aging and acetyl-L-carnitine on the lipid composition of rat plasma and erythrocytes

The effect of aging and treatment with acetyl-L-carnitine on the lipid composition of rat plasma and erythrocytes was studied. It was found that aging increases the levels of free and esterified cholesterol. Fatty acid patterns in the plasma of aged rats show remarkable alterations when compared with control rats. These changes reverted to normal after three hours of acetyl-L-carnitine treatment. No significant differences in the erythrocyte lipid pattern of young and aged rats were observed. This study provides the first proof that acetyl-L-carnitine probably acts by lowering free and esterified cholesterol and arachidonic acid (20:4) levels in the plasma.

Certain N-terminal peptides inhibit uptake of mature aspartate aminotransferase by isolated mitochondria

To gain insight into the uptake of mature aspartate aminotransferase by isolated mitochondria, the capability of certain cyanogen bromide peptides from mature beef heart mitochondrial aspartate aminotransferase to inhibit enzyme uptake was kinetically tested. N-terminal peptides (1-9 and 10-31) proved to inhibit the rate of aspartate aminotransferase uptake respectively in purely competitive and non-competitive ways, whereas other peptides distal from the N-terminus (203-217, 321-327 and 328-353) were found to be completely ineffective.

Estimation of protein secondary structure from circular dichroism spectra: a critical examination of the CONTIN program

The computer program CONTIN uses the Provencher and Glöckner procedure to calculate protein secondary structure from circular dichroism spectra. We have tested this program with peptides and proteins in which unfolding was either induced by denaturing treatment or was already present. Results indicate that the program does not clearly discriminate between the ordered and the unordered states of a protein.

Uptake of aspartate aminotransferase into mitochondria in vitro causes efflux of malate dehydrogenase and vice versa

Incubation of intact mitochondria with aspartate aminotransferase results in efflux of malate dehydrogenase and vice versa. The export process is specific and rapid. It shows saturation kinetics with respect to the effector enzyme consistent with involvement of a receptor for the effector in the mitochondrial membrane system. Export is inhibited by both beta-mercaptoethanol and by the metal chelating agent bathophenanthroline; both substances inhibit release of malate dehydrogenase by aspartate aminotransferase competitively whereas for release of aspartate aminotransferase by malate dehydrogenase inhibition is non-competitive. The efflux process is dependent on a trans-membrane pH gradient. Exported enzymes differ from the native forms in their dependence of activity on pH. Export of both aspartate aminotransferase and malate dehydrogenase is effected by incubation of mitochondria with the newly-synthesised precursor of aspartate aminotransferase; this observation provides supporting evidence for the physiological significance of the other results reported here. It is speculated that exported enzymes are on a pathway to degradation, and that coupled uptake and export is involved in the co-ordination of synthesis and breakdown of mitochondrial proteins.

Haematoporphyrin derivative (Photofrin II) photosensitization of isolated mitochondria: inhibition of ADP/ATP translocator

To gain further insight into the mechanism by which irradiation of mitochondria in the presence of haematoporphyrin derivative (Photofrin II) (PF II) causes impairment of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, the rate of ADP/ATP exchange via the ADP/ATP translocator was measured fluorometrically is isolated rat liver mitochondria. In accord with noncompetitive inhibition, PF II photosensitization decreases the maximum rate of exchange Vmax (20.8 and 9.6 nmol ATP effluxed min-1 x mg protein in the control and after 2 min irradiation, respectively) without changing the ADP affinity for the carrier (Km = 5 microM in both cases). Comparison of the rate of oxygen uptake by mitochondria stimulated by either ADP or by the uncoupler carbonyl cyanide 4-(trifluoromethoxy)phenylhydrazone (FCCP) confirms that the adenine nucleotide carrier is a major target of photodynamic action which causes oxidative phosphorylation impairment.

Increase in RNA and protein synthesis by mitochondria irradiated with helium-neon laser

To gain further insight into the mechanism of cell photostimulation by laser light, both RNA and protein synthesis were measured in mitochondria irradiated with the low power continuous wave He-Ne laser (Energy dose: 5 Joules/cm2). Following mitochondrial irradiation, both the rate and amount of incorporation of alpha-[32P]UTP and L-[35S]methionine, used to monitor RNA and protein synthesis respectively, proved to increase. Electrophoretic analysis made of the synthesis products clearly shows that He-Ne laser irradiation stimulates the synthesis of all mitochondrial transcription and translation products.

Effect of chemical carcinogens and partial hepatectomy on "in vivo" (35S)methionine interaction with rat liver tRNA

The effect of carcinogens given by a single or multiple injections on the extent of (35S)methionine interaction with hepatic tRNA was studied in normal and partially hepatectomized rats. Either partial hepatectomy or administration of ethionine (100 or 330 mg/kg body weight) and dimethylnitrosamine (120 mg/kg body weight) by multiple i.p. injections inhibited the (35S)methionine-tRNA interaction, while administration of hepatocarcinogenic chemicals plus PH resulted rather in a stimulation. Methylnitrosourea enhanced the extent of interaction when administered in a single dose (100 mg per kg body weight) 18 h after partial hepatectomy.

"In vivo" (35S)methionine interaction with rat liver tRNA

As part of a study to characterize the methionine role in tumorigenesis, we report that methionine sulfur interacts with rat liver tRNA "in vivo" (35S) radioactivity remained associated to the nucleic acid after a number of treatments, including tRNA deacylation. Similar data were obtained after administration of (methyl-3H) methionine, while no comparable tRNA labelling was detected when the aminoacid labelled in the aliphatic chain was given. Hplc analysis of (35S) tRNA enzymic hydrolysate showed two unidentified UV-absorbing radioactive peaks. NMR spectra of these two peaks did not reveal any thiomethyl group.

Metabolite transport in rat kidney mitochondria: ornithine/phosphate translocator

Ornithine uptake by rat kidney mitochondria is here first shown by monitoring the reduction of the intramitochondrial pyridine nucleotides which occurs as a result of metabolism of imported ornithine via ornithine aminotransferase and 1-pyrroline-carboxylate dehydrogenase. Ornithine uptake shows saturation features (Km and Vmax values, measured at 20 degrees C and at pH 7.20, were found to be about 0.85 mM and 23 nmoles/min x mg protein, respectively) and proves to be inhibited by D-ornithine, inorganic phosphate, praseodimium chloride and mersalyl. Neither malate nor glutamate, but phosphate was found to exchange with ornithine. Phosphate efflux caused by externally added ornithine was shown both as revealed by a c colorimetric assay and as continuously monitored by measuring extramitochondrial reduction of NAD+ in the presence of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, ADP and 3-phosphoglycerate kinase. The role of ornithine carrier in kidney metabolism will also be discussed.

Lipid composition of brown adipose tissue mitochondria and microsomes in hyperthyroid rats

1. The effects of triiodothyronine on the lipid composition of rat brown adipose tissue (BAT) mitochondria and microsomes was investigated by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). 2. An increase of about 20% was noted in mitochondrial cholesterol and phospholipids, while a decrease of about 20% for both total cholesterol and phospholipids was observed in microsomes from hyperthyroid rats. 3. The BAT phospholipid composition was altered significantly in mitochondria from T3-treated rats with an increase (41%) of cardiolipin and a decrease (18%) in phosphatidylcholine. 4. In microsomes, a decrease by 25% in phosphatidylinositol was accompanied by a similar additional percentage increase in phosphatidylethanolamine. 5. Important alterations in the fatty acid pattern were found in mitochondrial neutral lipids.

Fluorescence spectral resolution of myelin basic protein conformers in complexes with lysophosphatidylcholine

The structure of (Deibler) myelin basic protein in solution and in a lysolecithin++ lipid complex has been studied by using the emission properties of the single tryptophan residue of the protein (Trp-115). The studies have been carried out using both static and time-resolved fluorescence techniques. Relative to the free protein, the lipid bound myelin basic protein showed a twofold increase in fluorescence intensity and a marked blue-shift in the emission maximum wavelength. The multiexponential fluorescence decays and the decay associated spectra indicated that the protein exists in at least three different conformations both in buffer and in lipids. Fluorescence polarization and acrylamide quenching experiments showed that the tryptophan containing region of the protein is embedded in the lipid matrix. The binding of the protein to the lipid appears to be comparable with that predicted for the interaction of amphipathic helices with nonpolar lipids.

"In vivo" (35S)-methionine interaction with rat-liver DNA and the effect of chemical carcinogens

1. After intraperitoneal administration of (35S)methionine (25 mg, 1.6 mCi/kg), detectable amount of radioactivity resulted associated to rat-liver DNA: the interaction reached the maximum value (about 18 pmol/mumol DNA P) by 2 h after administration of radioactive aminoacid. 2. The (35S)-binding was inhibited by the hepatocarcinogenic ethionine and dimethylnitrosamine, and was stimulated by the non-hepatocarcinogenic methylnitrosourea. 3. Hplc analysis of (35S)DNA enzymic digest evidenced two radioactive compounds, the UV behaviour of which is reported.

Increase in the ADP/ATP exchange in rat liver mitochondria irradiated in vitro by helium-neon laser

To gain some insight into the mechanism of cell photostimulation by laser light, measurements were made of the rate of ADP/ATP exchange in mitochondria irradiated with the low power continuous wave Helium Neon laser (energy dose 5 Joules/cm2). To do this a method has been developed to continuously monitor ATP efflux from phosphorylating mitochondria caused by externally added ADP, by photometrically following the NADP+ reduction which occurs in the presence of glucose, hexokinase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and effluxed ATP. The NADP+ reduction rate shows hyperbolic dependence on ADP concentration (Km and Vmax values 8.5 +/- 0.87 microM and 20.7 +/- 0.49 nmoles NADP+ reduced/min x mg mitochondrial protein, respectively), and proves to measure the activity of the ADP/ATP translocator as shown by inhibition experiments using atracyloside, powerful inhibitor of this carrier. Irradiation was found to enhance the rate of ADP/ATP antiport, with externally added ADP ranging between 5 and 100 microM. As a result of experiments carried out with mitochondria loaded with either ATP or ADP, the increase in the activity of the ADP/ATP translocator is here proposed to depend on the increase in the electrochemical proton gradient which occurs owing to irradiation of mitochondria.

DNA hypomethylation in ethionine-induced rat preneoplastic hepatocyte nodules

DNA from hepatocyte nodules induced in rats with dietary DL-ethionine and from the surrounding non-nodular liver contained less 5-methyldeoxycytidine per deoxycytidine when compared with that from normal adult liver. The degree of apparent hypomethylation, 37% in nodules and 20% in the surrounding liver, decreased somewhat (29% and 16% respectively) at 2 weeks after terminating the exposure to ethionine. Nodules and surrounding liver, like normal liver, responded to partial hepatectomy with a decrease in the 5-methyldeoxycytidine level at 24 hrs and a return to the level at the time of partial hepatectomy by 38 hrs. These findings indicate the need for careful control of cell proliferation in comparing the levels of a post-replicative DNA modification, methylation, in proliferating and non-proliferating cell populations. These findings also suggest that a portion of the hypomethylation in preneoplastic nodules may be due to a bona fide decrease in the level of cytosine methylation in the parental strand of DNA. This hypomethylation could be one basis for the altered gene expression in hepatocyte nodules, possible precursors for liver cancer.

In vitro and in vivo DNA interaction with carbonyl-labeled (m)ethylnitrosoureas

1. The carbonyl group of (m)ethyylnitrosoureas was found to interact with DNA both in vitro and in vivo. 2. (14C-carbonyl)radioactivity remained associated to DNA after a number of ethanolic precipitations as well as after RNase and protein digestion treatments, but was extremely labile to DNA enzymic and acid digestion. 3. Detectable amount of (14C-carbonyl)-radioactivity was still found in DNA of various rat tissues 18 days after i.p. administration of carbonyl-labeled methylnitrosourea.

Uncoupling of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation by hexetidine

To gain further insight into the biochemical properties of the antibacterial hexetidine, isolated rat liver mitochondria were added with this drug and investigation made of certain features related to mitochondrial bioenergetics. Hexetidine was found to cause oxidation of intramitochondrial pyridine nucleotides and stimulate the rate of oxygen uptake caused by respiratory substrates involving three, two and one site(s) of phosphorylation. Reversal of oxygen uptake inhibition by oligomycin was also determined. By investigating hexetidine effect on oxidative phosphorylation, hexetidine was found both to inhibit the rate of ATP synthesis and to cause ATP hydrolysis. Likewise, hexetidine capability to produce acidification of extramitochondrial medium and to collapse delta psi was also observed. The reported findings show that hexetidine exhibits uncoupling properties.

Effect of hypothyroidism on the lipid composition of rat plasma and erythrocyte membranes

The effect of hypothyroidism on plasma and erythrocyte membrane lipid components has been investigated. This pathological state is accompanied by a) a cholesterol increase of about 60% in plasma, and at the same time a 22% reduction in erythrocyte membranes; b) 44% and 30% phospholipid level decreases in both plasma and red cell membranes, respectively; and c) almost unaffected phospholipid and fatty acid compositions of both plasma and erythrocyte membranes. All changes were corrected by treatment of the hypothyroid rats with triiodothyronine for two days. These findings suggest that in hypothyroid rats a reduced transfer of cholesterol from plasma to erythrocyte membrane probably takes place. This could explain, at least in part, the increased hematic cholesterol level observed in hypothyroid animals. In red cell membranes, the simultaneous decrease in cholesterol and phospholipid levels does not alter the cholesterol/phospholipid molar ratio, thus avoiding their abnormal function.

Anion transport in rat brain mitochondria: fumarate uptake via the dicarboxylate carrier

Penetration of fumarate into rat brain mitochondria has been investigated, as required in brain ammoniogenesis. Mitochondria swell in ammonium fumarate and this swelling is increased by both Pi and malate. According to a carrier mediated process, fumarate translocation, which occurs in exchange with intramitochondrial malate or Pi shows saturation characteristics. By photometrically investigating the kinetics of fumarate/malate, fumarate/Pi and malate/Pi exchanges, different Km values were obtained (10, 22 and 250 microM, respectively), whereas no significant difference was found for Vmax values (40 nmol NAD(P)+ reduced/min X mg protein). This suggests that fumarate and malate share a single carrier to enter mitochondria, namely the dicarboxylate carrier. Both comparison made of the Vmax values and inhibition studies exclude a fumarate translocation via either the tricarboxylate carrier, whose occurrence in brain is here demonstrated, or oxodicarboxylate carrier. Kinetic investigation of the dicarboxylate translocator shows the existence of thiol group/s and metal ion/s at or near the substrate binding sites. The experimental findings are discussed in the light of fumarate uptake in vivo in brain ammoniogenesis.

Uptake of thiamin by isolated rat liver mitochondria

Investigation is made here of 14C-thiamin uptake by rat liver mitochondria in vitro. Following incubation with mitochondria, 14C-thiamin remained in the mitochondrial pellet in spite of several washings of the organelles. Accordingly, externally added thiamin produced intra/extra-mitochondrial concentration ratios up to 5.4 and 14C-thiamin space/3H2O space ratios higher than one. These ratios decreased with increasing vitamin concentrations, thus suggesting the occurrence of saturation characteristics for vitamin uptake into mitochondria. Thiamin was proven to enter both intermembrane and matrix spaces, where neither binding to intramitochondrial protein nor phosphorylation were found to occur. Moreover thiamin uptake inhibition by both metal ions and certain thiamin analogues was also found.

Nonspecific lipid transfer protein (sterol carrier protein 2) is bound to rat liver mitochondria: its role in spontaneous intermembrane phospholipid transfer

In the present study we have investigated the transfer of phospholipids between vesicles and rat liver mitochondria. Transfer was measured by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy using vesicles that contained spin-labeled phospholipids. A spontaneous transfer was observed which could be strongly inhibited by treating the mitochondria with the thiol reagent mersalyl. Transfer was also greatly reduced after a saline wash of the mitochondria; the transfer activity was then recovered in the wash. This activity was inhibited by tryptic digestion and mersalyl. By gel chromatography, enzyme immunoassay and immunoblotting it was demonstrated that the activity in the wash was due to the nonspecific lipid transfer protein (sterol carrier protein 2). We could estimate that up to 85% of the spontaneous phospholipid transfer between vesicles and rat liver mitochondria was mediated by this transfer protein.

Lymphocyte-Salmonella interaction: energy dependence and thiol group involvement

In order to gain better insight into lymphocyte-Salmonella interaction investigation has been carried out on energy-dependence and involvement of thiol groups in this process by using a modified rosette test. Binding frequency, number of bound bacteria/number of binding lymphocytes and the number of bacteria-binding sites/lymphocyte were found to be enhanced by externally added ATP and decreased by both uncouplers and electron transfer chain inhibitors. Treatment of either bacteria or lymphocytes with thiol reagents, such as mersalyl or N-ethyl-maleimide, prevents lymphocyte-Salmonella adherence, thus showing the presence of thiol groups involved in the binding mechanism in both bacteria and cells. Consistently, as a result of mersalyl inhibition, a decrease in the number of bacteria-binding sites/lymphocyte was also found.

Myelin basic protein ability to organize lipid bilayers: structural transition in bilayers of lysophosphatidylcholine micelles

Myelin basic protein isolated by a single step with the cationic detergent cethyltrimethylammonium bromide in a lipid-bound form is able to induce structural transition of lysophosphatydilcholine micelles into multi-laminar vesicles. This finding, observed through electron microscopy, is discussed in the light of the assumed ability of the basic protein to organize myelin lipids.

Fumarate permeation in rat liver mitochondria: fumarate/malate and fumarate/phosphate translocators

Fumarate permeation in isolated rat liver mitochondria was demonstrated by measuring malate and phosphate efflux caused by fumarate added externally to the mitochondrial suspension. The existence of two specific fumarate translocators, fumarate/malate and fumarate/phosphate, is shown here. These carriers are distinguished in the light of different kinetic parameters (Km values are 50 microM and 150 microM, and Vmax values are 17 and 40 nmoles/min X mg mitochondrial protein, respectively) and of differing sensitivity to non-penetrant compounds. Fumarate was found to cause oxaloacetate efflux from mitochondria by means of an indirect process which involves the cooperation of both fumarate/malate and malate/oxaloacetate translocators. Results are discussed in the light of the physiological role played by fumarate translocation in both ureogenesis and aminoacid metabolism.

The role of metal ions in the uptake of aspartate aminotransferase and malate dehydrogenase into isolated rat liver mitochondria in vitro

To gain further insight into the mitochondrial receptor area which allows selective uptake of both purified aspartate aminotransferase and malate dehydrogenase into mitochondria, the inhibition of metal complexing agents such as bathophenanthroline and tiron on the uptake of both enzymes has been investigated. In view of the nature of the inhibition found, we propose the existence of metal ion(s) at or near the aspartate aminotransferase, but far from the malate dehydrogenase binding site.

Quantitative analysis of lymphocyte-Salmonella interaction and effect of lymphocyte irradiation by Helium-Neon laser

A model system has been developed to quantitatively investigate bacteria-cell interaction using a rough mutant of Salmonella and human peripheral blood lymphocytes. The effect of lymphocyte irradiation by low-power continuous wave Helium-Neon laser has been investigated since laser therapy in wound and decoubitous ulcer healing could involve the lymphoid cell function. Helium-Neon laser irradiation is shown here to enhance the adherence of Salmonella to lymphocytes. In particular, changes in newly defined binding parameters show that laser irradiation increases the frequency of binding-lymphocytes, the affinity of Salmonella for lymphocytes and the number of lymphocyte receptor sites as well.

Chemical modification of methionine residues of the phosphatidylcholine transfer protein from bovine liver. A spin-label study

The role of methionine residues in the interaction of the phosphatidylcholine transfer protein from bovine liver with phospholipid vesicles was investigated by specific modification of these residues with iodoacetamide. The modified protein was digested with cyanogen bromide in order to determine which methionine residues had become resistant to this cleavage. Automated Edman degradation on the digest indicated that after 72 h of reaction, Met-1 was modified for 80%, Met-73 for 50%, Met-109 for 20%, whilst Met-173 and Met-203 were found to be unmodified. This distinct modification did not result in any loss of phosphatidylcholine transfer activity. The interaction of the phosphatidylcholine transfer protein with phospholipid vesicles was investigated by making use of electron spin resonance spectroscopy. The interaction of unmodified protein with vesicles composed of phosphatidylcholine/phosphatidic acid/spin-labeled phosphatidylethanolamine (79:16:5, mol%) or composed of phosphatidylserine/spin-labeled phosphatidylethanolamine (95:5, mol%), gave an increase of about 50% in the rotation correlation time. A similar increase was observed with the modified protein. This interaction was further investigated by labeling Met-1 and Met-73 in the transfer protein with iodoacetamidoproxyl spin-label. Spin-labeling did not inactivate the transfer protein. In addition, the electron spin resonance spectra of the spin-labeled protein were not affected upon addition of vesicles composed of phosphatidylcholine/phosphatidic acid (80:20, mol%). These experiments strongly suggest that Met-1 and Met-73 are not part of the site that interacts with the membrane.

Removal of an N-terminal peptide from mitochondrial aspartate aminotransferase abolishes its interactions with mitochondria in vitro

Treatment of mitochondrial aspartate aminotransferase from rat liver with trypsin leads to specific cleavage of the bonds between residues 26 and 27, and residues 31 and 32. The proteolysed enzyme has only a small residual catalytic activity, but retains a conformation similar to that of the native form as judged by accessibility and reactivity of cysteine residues. Proteolysis abolishes the ability of the enzyme either to bind to mitochondria or to be imported into the organelles. This suggests that the N-terminal segment of the native enzyme is essential for both of these functions, at least in the model system used to study the import process.

Kinetic studies of the uptake of aspartate aminotransferase and malate dehydrogenase into mitochondria in vitro

Kinetic measurements of the uptake of native mitochondrial aspartate aminotransferase and malate dehydrogenase into mitochondria in vitro were carried out. The uptake of both the enzymes is essentially complete in 1 min and shows saturation characteristics. The rate of uptake of aspartate aminotransferase into mitochondria is decreased by malate dehydrogenase, and vice versa. The inhibition is exerted by isoenzyme remaining outside the mitochondria rather than by isoenzyme that has been imported. The thiol compound beta-mercaptoethanol decreases the rate of uptake of the tested enzymes; inhibition is a result of interaction of beta-mercaptoethanol with the mitochondria and not with the enzymes themselves. The rate of uptake of aspartate aminotransferase is inhibited non-competitively by malate dehydrogenase, but competitively by beta-mercaptoethanol. The rate of uptake of malate dehydrogenase is inhibited non-competitively by aspartate aminotransferase and by beta-mercaptoethanol. beta-Mercaptoethanol prevents the inhibition of the rate of uptake of malate dehydrogenase by aspartate aminotransferase. These results are interpreted in terms of a model system in which the two isoenzymes have separate but interacting binding sites within a receptor in the mitochondrial membrane system.

Oxaloacetate permeation in rat kidney mitochondria: pyruvate/oxaloacetate and malate/oxaloacetate translocators

The mechanism of oxaloacetate efflux from rat kidney mitochondria has been investigated in view of its possible role both in gluconeogenesis and in transferring cytosolic reducing equivalents into mitochondria. Thus reconstruction of the malate/oxaloacetate shuttle made possible by the oxaloacetate carrier has been made. Moreover the existence of a separate translocator able to allow a bidirectional alpha-cyanocinnamate-insensitive pyruvate/oxaloacetate exchange has been ascertained. This carrier is specific of gluconeogenetic organs in particularly of kidney, where it shows a marked affinity for pyruvate (Km = 0.45 mM and Vmax = 38 nmoles oxaloacetate effluxed/min X mg mitochondrial protein at 20 degrees C). Some features of both pyruvate/oxaloacetate and malate/oxaloacetate exchanges are also described.

Short-term stimulation of lipogenesis by triiodothyronine in maintenance cultures of rat hepatocytes

Within 4 h following the addition of 3,3',5 triiodo-L-thyronine to monolayer cultures of hepatocytes isolated from hypothyroid rats, a very distinct stimulation of fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis, measured as incorporation of either [1-14C]acetate or [3H]H2O into these lipid fractions, is observed. A smaller but significant increase in the rate of lipogenesis occurs in hepatocytes derived from euthyroid animals. These stimulatory effects of triiodothyronine are also observed in the presence of cycloheximide, indicating that the described early and direct stimulation of lipogenesis by the thyroid hormone is, at least in part, independent of protein synthesis.