Expression of P2 receptors in bone and cultured bone cells

Expression, signaling, and function of P2X7 receptors in bone

Nucleotides released from cells in response to mechanical stimulation or injury may serve as paracrine regulators of bone cell function. Extracellular nucleotides bind to multiple subtypes of P2 receptors on osteoblasts (the cells responsible for bone formation) and osteoclasts (cells with the unique ability to resorb mineralized tissues). Both cell lineages express the P2X7 receptor subtype. The skeletal phenotype of mice with targeted disruption of P2rx7 points to interesting roles for this receptor in the regulation of bone formation and resorption, as well as the response of the skeleton to mechanical stimulation. This paper reviews recent work on the expression of P2X7 receptors in bone, their associated signal transduction mechanisms and roles in regulating bone formation and resorption. Areas for future research in this field are also discussed.

Variation in the purinergic P2RX(7) receptor gene and schizophrenia

INTRODUCTION

The purinergic receptor gene P2RX(7) is located in a major linkage hotspot for schizophrenia and bipolar disorders, 12q21-33. It has previously been associated with bipolar disorder but has never been analysed in relation to schizophrenia, although it is involved in several neuronal processes associated with schizophrenia.

METHODS

Nine functionally characterised variants in P2RX(7) were genotyped in 389 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia, each matched on sex, birth-year and month with two healthy controls.

RESULTS

We did not find association between P2RX(7) and schizophrenia and stratification on gender did not change this result. The high ethnic and diagnostic homogeneity of the sample adds credibility to this finding.

CONCLUSION

P2XR(7) was not associated with schizophrenia in this study.

Mechanical stress induces osteopontin via ATP/P2Y1 in periodontal cells

Our previous study showed that mechanical stress induced the expression of osteopontin (OPN) in human periodontal ligament (HPDL) cells through the Rho kinase pathway. The increase of OPN expression via Rho kinase has been demonstrated to be triggered by nucleotide. Therefore, we hypothesized that nucleotides, particularly adenosine triphosphate (ATP), participated in the stress-induced OPN expression in HPDL cells. In the present study, the roles of ATP and P2Y1 purinoceptor were examined. Reverse-transcription polymerase chain-reaction and Western blot analysis revealed that the stress-induced ATP exerted its stimulatory effect on OPN expression. The inductive effect was attenuated by apyrase and completely inhibited by the Rho kinase inhibitor, as well as by the P2Y1 antagonist. We here propose that stress induces release of ATP, which in turn mediates Rho kinase activation through the P2Y1 receptor, resulting in the up-regulation of OPN. Stress-induced ATP could play a significant role in alveolar bone resorption.

Purinergic (ATP) signaling stimulates JNK1 but not JNK2 MAPK in osteoblast-like cells: contribution of intracellular Ca2+ release, stress activated and L-voltage-dependent calcium influx, PKC and Src kinases

This work shows that ATP activates JNK1, but not JNK2, in rat osteoblasts and ROS-A 17/2.8 osteoblast-like cells. In ROS-A 17/2.8 cells ATP induced JNK1 phosphorylation in a dose- and time-dependent manner. JNK1 phosphorylation also increased after osteoblast stimulation with ATPgammaS and UTP, but not with ADPbetaS. RT-PCR studies supported the expression of P2Y(2) receptor subtype. ATP-induced JNK1 activation was reduced by PI-PLC, IP(3) receptor, PKC and Src inhibitors and by gadolinium, nifedipine and verapamil or a Ca(2+)-free medium. ERK 1/2 or p38 MAPK inhibitors diminished JNK1 activation by ATP, suggesting a cross-talk between these pathways. ATP stimulated osteoblast-like cell proliferation consistent with the participation of P2Y(2) receptors. These results show that P2Y(2) receptor stimulation by ATP induces JNK1 phosphorylation in ROS-A 17/2.8 cells in a way dependent on PI-PLC/IP(3)/intracellular Ca(2+) release and Ca(2+) influx through stress activated and L-type voltage-dependent calcium channels and involves PKC and Src kinases.

P2X7 receptors on osteoblasts couple to production of lysophosphatidic acid: a signaling axis promoting osteogenesis

Nucleotides are released from cells in response to mechanical stimuli and signal in an autocrine/paracrine manner through cell surface P2 receptors. P2rx7^−/− mice exhibit diminished appositional growth of long bones and impaired responses to mechanical loading. We find that calvarial sutures are wider in P2rx7^−/− mice. Functional P2X7 receptors are expressed on osteoblasts in situ and in vitro. Activation of P2X7 receptors by exogenous nucleotides stimulates expression of osteoblast markers and enhances mineralization in cultures of rat calvarial cells. Moreover, osteogenesis is suppressed in calvarial cell cultures from P2rx7^−/− mice compared with the wild type. P2X7 receptors couple to production of the potent lipid mediators lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and prostaglandin E₂. Either an LPA receptor antagonist or cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors abolish the stimulatory effects of P2X7 receptor activation on osteogenesis. We conclude that P2X7 receptors enhance osteoblast function through a cell-autonomous mechanism. Furthermore, a novel signaling axis links P2X7 receptors to production of LPA and COX metabolites, which in turn stimulate osteogenesis.

Purinergic receptors are part of a signalling system for proliferation and differentiation in distinct cell lineages in human anagen hair follicles

We investigated the expression of P2X(5), P2X(7), P2Y(1) and P2Y(2) receptor subtypes in adult human anagen hair follicles and in relation to markers of proliferation [proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and Ki-67], keratinocyte differentiation (involucrin) and apoptosis (anticaspase-3). Using immunohistochemistry, we showed that P2X(5), P2Y(1) and P2Y(2) receptors were expressed in spatially distinct zones of the anagen hair follicle: P2Y(1) receptors in the outer root sheath and bulb, P2X(5) receptors in the inner and outer root sheaths and medulla and P2Y(2) receptors in living cells at the edge of the cortex/medulla. P2X(7) receptors were not expressed. Colocalisation experiments suggested different functional roles for these receptors: P2Y(1) receptors were associated with bulb and outer root sheath keratinocyte proliferation, P2X(5) receptors were associated with differentiation of cells of the medulla and inner root sheaths and P2Y(2) receptors were associated with early differentiated cells in the cortex/medulla that contribute to the formation of the hair shaft. The therapeutic potential of purinergic agonists and antagonists for controlling hair growth is discussed.

Ion channels and transporters in osteoclasts

The resorbing osteoclast is an exceptional cell that secretes large amounts of acid through the coupled activity of a v-type H+-ATPase and a chloride channel that both reside in the ruffled membrane. Impairment of this acid secretion machinery by genetic mutations can abolish bone resorption activity, resulting in osteopetrotic phenotypes. Another key feature of osteoclasts is the transport of high amounts of calcium and phosphate from the resorption lacuna to the basolateral plasma membrane. Evidence exists that this occurs in part through entry of these ions into the osteoclast cytosol. Handling of such large amounts of a cellular messenger requires elaborate mechanisms. Membrane proteins that regulate osteoclast calcium homeostasis and the effect of calcium on osteoclast function and survival are therefore the second main focus of this review.

P2Y receptors activated by diadenosine polyphosphates reestablish Ca(2+) transients in achondroplasic chondrocytes

Achondroplasia is the most common type of dwarfism, characterised by a mutation in the gene that encodes the fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3). Achondroplasia mainly affects the chondrocytes and therefore bones do not grow properly since intracellular pathways are altered. In this sense, defective calcium signaling by mutant FGFR3 has been previously described. The purpose of this study was to investigate the presence of purinergic P2Y receptors and how the activation of these receptors can have influence on defective calcium signaling observed in achondroplasic chondrocytes. The presence of P2Y receptors was determined by immunocytochemical and western blot techniques. Calcium mobilization after stimulation with nucleotides, dinucleotides, or, FGF9 application, was measured using the ratiometric dye fura-2/AM and fluorescence imaging. Our results demonstrate the expression of P2Y(1), P2Y(2), P2Y(6) and P2Y(11) receptors in achondroplasic chondrocytes, as well as the activation of these receptors after nucleotides and dinucleotides exposure. The altered calcium signaling of achondroplasic chondrocytes was confirmed, since FGF9 treatment fails to induce calcium mobilization. However, achondroplasic chondrocytes pre-treated with Ap(4)A are able to respond with increases in intracellular calcium after FGF9 stimulation. These findings show the rescue effect of diadenosine tetraphosphate (Ap(4)A), acting by means of P2Y receptors, on defective calcium response triggered by achondroplasic FGFR3.

Possible role of extracellular nucleotides in ectopic ossification of human spinal ligaments

To reveal the involvement of extracellular nucleotides in the ossification process in ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament of the spine (OPLL), the mRNA expression profiles of P2 purinoceptors, mechanical stress-induced ATP release, and ATP-stimulated expression of osteogenic genes were analyzed in ligament cells derived from the spinal ligament of OPLL patients (OPLL cells) and non-OPLL cells derived from the spinal ligaments of cervical spondylotic myelopathy patients as a control. The extracellular ATP concentrations of OPLL cells in static culture were significantly higher than those of non-OPLL cells, and this difference was diminished in the presence of ARL67156, an ecto-nuclease inhibitor. Cyclic stretch markedly increased the extracellular ATP concentrations of both cell types to almost the same level. P2Y1 purinoceptor subtypes were intensively expressed in OPLL cells, but only weakly expressed in non-OPLL cells. Not only ATP addition but also cyclic stretch raised the mRNA levels of alkaline phosphatase and osteopontin in OPLL cells, which were blocked by MRS2179, a selective P2Y1 antagonist. These increases in the expression of osteogenic genes were not observed in non-OPLL cells. These results suggest an important role of P2Y1 and extracellular ATP in the progression of OPLL stimulated by mechanical stress.

P2Y nucleotide receptor signaling through MAPK/ERK is regulated by extracellular matrix: involvement of beta3 integrins

Extracellular matrix influences cell behavior through receptors such as integrins and through transmission of mechanical forces. Nucleotides are released in response to mechanical stimuli and bind to P2 nucleotide receptors. As chondrocytes are subjected to frequent mechanical stimulation within a rich extracellular matrix, they are an excellent model for studying integration of signals induced by matrix and nucleotides. We investigated signaling of G protein-coupled P2Y receptors to MAPK/ERK and how this is influenced by matrix. Rat articular chondrocytes expressed transcripts for P2Y1, P2Y2, P2Y4, and P2Y6 receptors and responded to extracellular nucleotides by transient elevation of cytosolic calcium and MAPK/ERK phosphorylation. ERK1/2 activation was suppressed by the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitors bisindolylmaleimide I and rottlerin, and by the phospholipase D inhibitor 1-butanol. Thus, nucleotides stimulate P2Y receptors to activate ERK1/2 through a mechanism dependent on PKC and phospholipase D. We next examined the involvement of integrins. Both an RGD-containing pentapeptide and a beta3 integrin blocking antibody, but not a beta1 integrin blocking antibody, abolished nucleotide-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Moreover, chondrocytes adhering to fibronectin (which binds to beta1 and beta3 containing integrins in an RGD-dependent manner) displayed prolonged ERK1/2 signaling compared to cells grown on type I or II collagen (which bind to beta1-containing integrins in an RGD-independent manner). In conclusion, P2Y receptor signaling through ERK1/2 is gated selectively by matrix proteins. Thus, nucleotides released in response to mechanical stimulation will have differing effects on cell function due to changes in the composition of the extracellular matrix during development and disease.

ATP-mediated mineralization of MC3T3-E1 osteoblast cultures

While bone is hypomineralized in hypophosphatemia patients and in tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (Tnsalp)-deficient mice, the extensive mineralization that nevertheless occurs suggests involvement of other phosphatases in providing phosphate ions for mineral deposition. Although the source of phosphate liberated by these phosphatases is unknown, pyrophosphate, ATP, pyridoxal-5'-phosphate (PLP) and phoshoethanolamine (PEA) are likely candidates. In this study, we have induced mineralization of MC3T3-E1 osteoblast cultures using ATP, and have investigated potential phosphatases involved in this mineralization process. MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts were cultured for 12 days and treated either with beta-glycerophosphate (betaGP) or ATP. Matrix and mineral deposition was examined by biochemical, cytochemical, ultrastructural and X-ray microanalytical methods. ATP added at levels of 4-5 mM resulted in mineral deposition similar to that following conventional treatment with betaGP. Collagen levels were similarly normal in ATP-mineralized cultures and transmission electron microscopy and X-ray microanalysis confirmed hydroxyapatite mineral deposition along the collagen fibrils in the ECM. Phosphate release from 4 mM ATP into the medium was rapid and resulted in approximately twice the phosphate levels than after release from 10 mM betaGP. ATP treatment did not affect mineralization by altering the expression of mineral-regulating genes such as Enpp1, Ank, and Mgp, nor phosphatase genes indicating that ATP induces mineralization by serving as a phosphate source for mineral deposition. Levamisole, an inhibitor of TNSALP, completely blocked mineralization in betaGP-treated cultures, but had minor effects on ATP-mediated mineralization, indicating that other phosphatases such as plasma membrane Ca2+ transport ATPase 1 (PMCA1) and transglutaminase 2 (TG2) are contributing to ATP hydrolysis. To examine their involvement in ATP-mediated mineralization, the inhibitors cystamine (TG2 inhibitor) and ortho-vanadate (PMCA inhibitor) were added to the cultures - both inhibitors significantly reduced mineralization whereas suppression of the phosphate release by ortho-vanadate was minor comparing to other two inhibitors. The contribution of PMCA1 to mineralization may occur through pumping of calcium towards calcification sites and TG2 can likely act as an ATPase in the ECM. Unlike the GTPase activity of TG2, its ATPase function was resistant to calcium, demonstrating the potential for participation in ATP hydrolysis and mineral deposition within the ECM at elevated calcium concentrations.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the P2X7 gene are associated to fracture risk and to effect of estrogen treatment

OBJECTIVES

The purinergic P2RX7 receptor (P2RX7) has been shown to play a role in the regulation of osteoblast and osteoclast activity. The aim of this study was to determine the presence of polymorphisms in exon 13 of the P2X7 gene and the association with osteoclast apoptosis in vitro and bone status in vivo.

METHODS

A total of 1764 postmenopausal women were genotyped for three single nucleotide polymorphisms detected after sequencing of exon 13 of P2X7. Bone markers, bone mineral density of the hip and lumbar spine were determined at baseline and after 10 years, and vertebral fracture incidence after 10 years. In-vitro ATP-induced caspase-1 determinations were performed on osteoclasts from the different genotypes.

RESULTS

Three polymorphisms were detected (Gln460Arg, Glu496Ala, and Ile568Asn). None of the polymorphisms was related to bone mineral density or changes in bone mineral density over 10 years in hormone replacement therapy naïve women. The Ile568Asn polymorphism was however, associated with effect of hormone replacement therapy. Furthermore, the 10-year fracture incidence was significantly associated with both the Glu496Ala and the Ile568Asn. The Glu496Ala polymorphism was closely related to ATP-induced osteoclast apoptosis in vitro, as osteoclasts from individuals homozygous for the C allele had significantly decreased apoptotic activity.

CONCLUSION

The P2X7 Glu496Ala and the Ile568Asn single nucleotide polymorphisms are associated with 10-year fracture risk in postmenopausal women and response to hormone replacement therapy treatment. Further, the Glu496Ala polymorphism is strongly influencing osteoclast apoptosis in vitro, which could contribute to increased fracture risk.

Pyrophosphate inhibits mineralization of osteoblast cultures by binding to mineral, up-regulating osteopontin, and inhibiting alkaline phosphatase activity

Inorganic pyrophosphate (PP(i)) produced by cells inhibits mineralization by binding to crystals. Its ubiquitous presence is thought to prevent "soft" tissues from mineralizing, whereas its degradation to P(i) in bones and teeth by tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (Tnap, Tnsalp, Alpl, Akp2) may facilitate crystal growth. Whereas the crystal binding properties of PP(i) are largely understood, less is known about its effects on osteoblast activity. We have used MC3T3-E1 osteoblast cultures to investigate the effect of PP(i) on osteoblast function and matrix mineralization. Mineralization in the cultures was dose-dependently inhibited by PP(i). This inhibition could be reversed by Tnap, but not if PP(i) was bound to mineral. PP(i) also led to increased levels of osteopontin (Opn) induced via the Erk1/2 and p38 MAPK signaling pathways. Opn regulation by PP(i) was also insensitive to foscarnet (an inhibitor of phosphate uptake) and levamisole (an inhibitor of Tnap enzymatic activity), suggesting that increased Opn levels did not result from changes in phosphate. Exogenous OPN inhibited mineralization, but dephosphorylation by Tnap reversed this effect, suggesting that OPN inhibits mineralization via its negatively charged phosphate residues and that like PP(i), hydrolysis by Tnap reduces its mineral inhibiting potency. Using enzyme kinetic studies, we have shown that PP(i) inhibits Tnap-mediated P(i) release from beta-glycerophosphate (a commonly used source of organic phosphate for culture mineralization studies) through a mixed type of inhibition. In summary, PP(i) prevents mineralization in MC3T3-E1 osteoblast cultures by at least three different mechanisms that include direct binding to growing crystals, induction of Opn expression, and inhibition of Tnap activity.

P2X4 is up-regulated in gingival fibroblasts after periodontal surgery

Several studies have shown that surgical detachment of marginal gingiva close to the cervical cementum of molar teeth in a rat mandible is a distinct stimulus for alveolar bone resorption. Recently, we found that P2X4, an ATP-receptor, is significantly up-regulated in marginal gingival cells soon after surgery. We hypothesized that local release of ATP signaling through P2X4 elicits activation of osteoclasts on the alveolar bone surface. In this study, we identified intense immunoreactivity of gingival fibroblasts to P2X4-specific antibodies and a 6.4-fold increase in expression by real-time RT-PCR. Moreover, a single local application, at the time of surgery, of Apyrase (which degrades ATP) or Coomassie Brilliant Blue (an antagonist of purinoreceptors) significantly reduced alveolar bone loss. We propose that ATP flowing from cells after surgery can directly activate P2X4 receptors in the sensor cells of marginal gingiva through Ca(2+) signaling, or by direct activation of osteoclasts on the bone surface.

P2 receptors in macrophage fusion and osteoclast formation

Cells of the mononuclear phagocyte lineage fuse to form multinucleated giant cells and osteoclasts. Several lines of evidence suggest that P2 receptors, in particular P2X₇, are involved in this process, although P2X₇ is not absolutely required for fusion because P2X₇-null mice form multinucleated osteoclasts. Extracellular ATP may be an important regulator of macrophage fusion.

P2X7 nucleotide receptors mediate blebbing in osteoblasts through a pathway involving lysophosphatidic acid

Extracellular nucleotides, released in response to mechanical or inflammatory stimuli, signal through P2 receptors in many cell types, including osteoblasts. P2X7 receptors are ATP-gated cation channels that can induce formation of large membrane pores. Disruption of the gene encoding the P2X7 receptor leads to decreased periosteal bone formation and insensitivity of the skeleton to mechanical stimulation. Our purpose was to investigate signaling pathways coupled to P2X7 activation in osteoblasts. Live cell imaging showed that ATP or 2 ',3 '-O-(4-benzoylbenzoyl)-ATP (BzATP), but not UTP, UDP, or 2-methylthio-ADP, induced dynamic membrane blebbing in calvarial osteoblasts. Blebbing was observed in calvarial cells from wildtype but not P2X7 knock-out mice. P2X7 receptors coupled to activation of phospholipase D and A2, inhibition of which suppressed BzATP-induced blebbing. Activation of these phospholipases leads to production of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). LPA caused dynamic blebbing in osteoblasts from both wild-type and P2X7 knock-out mice, similar to that induced by BzATP in wildtype cells. However, LPA-induced blebbing was more rapid in onset and was not affected by inhibition of phospholipase D or A2. Blockade or desensitization of LPA receptors suppressed blebbing in response to LPA and BzATP, without affecting P2X7-stimulated pore formation. Thus, LPA functions downstream of P2X7 receptors to induce membrane blebbing. Furthermore, inhibition of Rho-associated kinase abolished blebbing induced by both BzATP and LPA. In summary, we propose a novel signaling axis that links P2X7 receptors through phospholipases to production of LPA and activation of Rho-associated kinase. This pathway may contribute to P2X7-stimulated osteogenesis during skeletal development and mechanotransduction.

ATP reduces gel compaction in osteoblast-populated collagen gels

Bone remodeling is a localized process, but regulated by systemic signals such as hormones, cytokines, and mechanical loading. The mechanism by which bone cells convert these systemic signals into local signals is not completely understood. It is broadly accepted that the "prestress" in cytoskeleton of cells affects the magnitude of cellular responses to mechanical stimuli. Prestress derives from stiff cytoskeletal proteins and their connections within the cell and from cell contractility upon attaching to matrix. In an in vitro model of three-dimensional gel compaction, the relative cellular prestress levels in the same matrix environment were determined by matrix compaction rate: a greater compaction rate resulted in a higher level of prestress. In the present study, the effects of ATP on the prestress of osteoblasts were studied using mouse MC3T3-E1 cells grown in three-dimensional bioartificial tissues (BATs). ATP (> or =100 microM) reduced the compaction rate of BATs in a dose-dependent manner. ADP, 2'-(or 3')-O-(4-benzoylbenzoyl) ATP, and UTP, but not alpha,beta-methylene ATP, also reduced the compaction rate but to a lesser extent. Pyridoxal-phosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonic acid tetrasodium did not block the effect of ATP on BAT compaction rate. These results indicate that both P2X and P2Y receptors are involved in ATP-induced reduction of BAT compaction rate. Steady fluid flow and RT-PCR results showed that ATP reduced cell attachment on type I collagen by downregulating the expression of integrin alpha(1). These results suggest a potential role for P2 receptors in matrix remodeling and repair and as a potential drug target in treatment of bone diseases.

Hypoxia induces giant osteoclast formation and extensive bone resorption in the cat

Dental disease due to osteoclast (OC) overactivity reaches epidemic proportions in older domestic cats and has also been reported in wild cats. Feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORL) involve extensive resorption of the tooth, leaving it liable to root fracture and subsequent loss. The etiopathogenesis of FORL remains unclear. Here, we explore the hypothesis that FORL is associated with hypoxia in the oral microenvironment, leading to increased OC activity. To investigate this, we developed a method of generating OCs from cat blood. Reducing O2 from 20% to 2% increased the mean area of OC eightfold from 0.01 to 0.08 mm2. In hypoxic cultures, very large OCs containing several hundred nuclei were evident (reaching a maximum size of approximately 14 mm2). Cultures exposed to 2% O2 exhibited an increase of approximately 13-fold in the area of bone slices covered by resorption lacunae. In line with this finding, there was a significant increase in cells differentiating under hypoxic conditions, reflected in increased expression of cathepsin K and proton pump enzymes. In conclusion, these results demonstrate that oxygen tension is a major regulator of OC formation in the cat. However, in this species, hypoxia induces the formation of "giant" OCs, which can be so large as to be visible with the naked eye and yet also actively resorb. This suggests that local hypoxia is likely to play a key role in the pathogenesis of FORL and other inflammatory conditions that are associated with bone resorption in cats.

P2X(5) and P2X(7) receptors in human warts and CIN-612 organotypic raft cultures of human papillomavirus infected keratinocytes

Purinergic receptors, which bind adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP), are expressed on human cutaneous keratinocytes and in squamous cell carcinomas. Studies on normal human epidermis and primary keratinocyte cultures have suggested that P2X₅ receptors are likely to be involved in keratinocyte differentiation and P2X₇ receptors are likely to be part of the machinery of end stage terminal differentiation/apoptosis of keratinocytes. P2X₇ receptor agonists can significantly reduce primary keratinocyte cell numbers in culture. Human papillomaviruses are increasingly recognised as important human carcinogens in the development of non-melanoma skin cancers. In our study, immunohistochemical analysis for P2X₅ and P2X₇ receptors was performed on paraffin sections of normal human skin, warts, raft cultures of normal human keratinocytes and raft cultures of CIN 612 cells, a model of keratinocytes infected with human papillomavirus type 31. In warts there was up-regulation of the expression of P2X₅ receptors. A similar pattern was seen in the CIN 612 raft cultures. Both P2X₅ and P2X₇ receptors were found in the nuclei of koilocytes, abnormal keratinocytes characteristic of human papillomavirus infection. P2X₅ and P2X₇ receptors may provide a new focus for therapeutic research into treatments for warts because these receptors can induce cell differentiation and cell death.

Osteoblast responses to nucleotides increase during differentiation

Accumulating evidence suggests that extracellular nucleotides, signaling through P2 receptors, play a role in modulating bone cell function. ATP and ADP stimulate osteoclastic resorption, while ATP and UTP are powerful inhibitors of bone formation by osteoblasts. We investigated changes in the expression of P2 receptors with cell differentiation in primary osteoblast cultures. Rat calvarial osteoblasts, cultured for up to 10 days, were loaded with the intracellular Ca(2+)-sensing fluorophore, Fluo-4 AM, and a fluorescence imaging plate reader was used to measure responses to nucleotide agonists. Peak responses occurred within 20 s and were evoked by ATP or UTP at concentrations as low as 2 microM. Osteoblast number doubled between day 4 and 10 of culture, but the peak intracellular Ca(2+) response to ATP or UTP increased up to 6-fold over the same period, indicating that osteoblast responsiveness to nucleotides increases as cell differentiation proceeds. The approximate order of potency for the most active nucleotide agonists at day 8 of culture was ATP > UTP and ATPgammaS > ADP > UDP, consistent with the expression of functional P2Y(2), P2X(2), P2Y(4), P2Y(1) and P2Y(6) receptors. Smaller responses were elicited by 2-MeSATP, Bz-ATP and alpha,beta-meATP, additionally suggesting the presence of functional P2X(1), P2X(3), P2X(5) and P2X(7) receptors. Expression of mRNA for the ATP- and UTP-selective P2Y(2) receptor increased strongly between day 6 and 15 in primary rat osteoblasts, whereas mRNAs for the P2Y(4) (also ATP/UTP selective) and P2Y(6) (UDP/UTP selective) receptors were highly expressed at intermediate time points. In contrast, mRNA for the cell-proliferation-associated P2X(5) receptor decreased to undetectable as osteoblasts matured, but mRNA for the cell-death-associated P2X(7) receptor was detected at all time points. Similar trends were evident using immunostaining and Western blotting for P2 receptors. Exposure to 10 muM ATP or UTP during days 10-14 of culture was sufficient to cause near-total blockade of the 'trabecular' bone nodules formed by osteoblasts; however, UDP and ADP were without effect. Our results show that there is a shift from P2X to P2Y expression during differentiation in culture, with mature osteoblasts preferentially expressing the P2Y(2) receptor and to a lesser extent P2Y(4) and P2Y(6) receptors. Taken together, these data suggest that the P2Y(2) receptor, and possibly the P2Y(4) receptor, could function as 'off-switches' for mineralized bone formation.

Modulation of ERK 1/2 and p38 MAPK signaling pathways by ATP in osteoblasts: involvement of mechanical stress-activated calcium influx, PKC and Src activation

There is evidence that extracellular nucleotides, acting through multiple P2 receptors, may play an important role in the regulation of bone metabolism by activating intracellular signaling cascades. We have studied the modulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways and its relationship to changes in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) induced by ATP in ROS-A 17/2.8 osteoblastic cells. ATP and UTP (10 microM) increased [Ca(2+)](i) by cation release from intracellular stores. We have found that when the cells are subsequently subjected to mechanical stress (medium perturbation), a transient calcium influx occurs. This mechanical stress-activated calcium influx (MSACI) was not observed after ADP stimulation, indicating that P2Y(2) receptor activation is required for MSACI. In addition, ERK 1/2 and p38 MAPK were activated by ATP in a dose- and time-dependent manner. This activation was almost completely blocked using neomycin (2.5mM), an inhibitor of phosphoinositide-phospholipase C (PI-PLC), Ro 318220 (1 microM), a protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, and PP1 (50 microM), a potent and selective inhibitor of the Src-family tyrosine kinases. Ca(2+)-free extracellular medium (containing 0.5mM EGTA) and the use of gadolinium (5 microM), which suppressed MSACI, prevented ERK 1/2 and p38 phosphorylation by ATP. Altogether, these results represent the first evidence to date suggesting that P2Y(2) receptor stimulation by ATP in osteoblasts sensitizes mechanical stress activated calcium channels leading to calcium influx and a fast activation of the ERK 1/2 and p38 MAPK pathways. This effect also involves upstream mediators such as PI-PLC, PKC and Src family kinases.

Pharmacology of P2X channels

Significant progress in understanding the pharmacological characteristics and physiological importance of homomeric and heteromeric P2X channels has been achieved in recent years. P2X channels, gated by ATP and most likely trimerically assembled from seven known P2X subunits, are present in a broad distribution of tissues and are thought to play an important role in a variety of physiological functions, including peripheral and central neuronal transmission, smooth muscle contraction, and inflammation. The known homomeric and heteromeric P2X channels can be distinguished from each other on the basis of pharmacological differences when expressed recombinantly in cell lines, but whether this pharmacological classification holds true in native cells and in vivo is less well-established. Nevertheless, several potent and selective P2X antagonists have been discovered in recent years and shown to be efficacious in various animal models including those for visceral organ function, chronic inflammatory and neuropathic pain, and inflammation. The recent advancement of drug candidates targeting P2X channels into human trials, confirms the medicinal exploitability of this novel target family and provides hope that safe and effective medicines for the treatment of disorders involving P2X channels may be identified in the near future.

Involvement of adenosine 5'-triphosphate in ultrasound-induced fracture repair

Ultrasound (US) accelerates fracture healing; however, the mechanism of this effect remains unclear. Adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) stimulates bone remodeling and is released constitutively from intact osteoblasts; this is a process that is enhanced after mechanical stimulation. We hypothesized that ATP release from osteoblasts is increased after US stimulation and that this leads to accelerated fracture healing. US was applied to SaOS-2 human osteoblasts and the concentration of ATP in the cell culture medium was determined. Cell proliferation and gene expression were subsequently investigated. Increased concentrations of ATP were detected in the culture medium of US-treated cells and both ATP and US stimulation caused increased receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand (RANKL), decreased osteoprotegerin expression and increased cell proliferation by SaOS-2 cells. These findings indicate that US causes ATP release by osteoblasts in vitro and that this may contribute to accelerated fracture healing by enhancing osteoblast proliferation and increasing RANKL expression and decreasing osteoprotegerin expression by osteoblasts to promote osteoclastogenesis.

P2Y6 nucleotide receptors activate NF-kappaB and increase survival of osteoclasts

Nucleotides, released from cells during inflammation and by mechanical stimulation, act through the P2 family of nucleotide receptors. Previous studies have demonstrated the expression of P2Y1 and P2Y2 receptors in osteoclasts. The aim of this study was to determine whether osteoclast P2Y receptors signal through NF-kappaB, a key transcription factor regulating osteoclastogenesis. Immunofluorescence was used to detect the p65 subunit of NF-kappaB, which upon activation translocates from the cytosol to nuclei. Low levels of NF-kappaB activation were observed in untreated rabbit osteoclasts and in those exposed to 2-methylthio ADP (P2Y1 agonist) or ATP or UTP (P2Y2 agonists). In contrast, UDP or INS48823 (P2Y6 agonists) induced a significant increase in the number of cells exhibiting NF-kappaB activation, a process sensitive to the proteasome inhibitor lactacystin. In osteoclasts purified by micromanipulation, reverse transcription-PCR revealed the presence of P2Y1, P2Y2, and P2Y6 receptor transcripts, and application of agonists for these receptors induced the transient rise of cytosolic calcium. Treatment of rat osteoclasts with UDP or INS48823, but not 2-methylthio ADP or UTP, increased osteoclast survival. Osteoprotegerin (a decoy receptor for RANK ligand) did not significantly alter the effects of UDP on NF-kappaB localization or osteoclast survival, consistent with a direct action. Moreover, SN50 (cell-permeable peptide inhibitor of NF-kappaB) suppressed the enhancement of cell survival induced by UDP and INS48823. Our findings demonstrate the presence of functional P2Y6 receptors in osteoclasts. Thus, nucleotides, following their release at sites of inflammation and mechanical stimulation, can act through P2Y6 receptors to initiate NF-kappaB signaling and enhance osteoclast survival.

Multiple P2X and P2Y receptor subtypes in mouse J774, spleen and peritoneal macrophages

We investigated P2 receptor expression and function in macrophages from mouse, and in the J774 cell line, and revealed a larger spectrum of P2 receptor subtypes than previously recognised. The nucleotides adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate, uridine triphosphate and uridine diphosphate evoked an increase in intracellular calcium and the activation of a potassium current. The sensitivity of these responses to the antagonists suramin, PPADS, MRS 2179 and Cibacron blue suggest the presence of at least three functional P2Y receptor subtypes, most probably P2Y(2), P2Y(4) and P2Y(6). ATP also activated P2X receptors, giving rise to a rapidly activating cation conductance. This response was insensitive to the antagonists suramin and Cibacron blue, was potentiated by Zn(2+) and inhibited by acidification suggesting involvement of P2X(4) receptors. In low divalent cation solution, responses to ATP became larger, and dibenzoyl-ATP became more potent than ATP, indicating the presence of P2X(7) receptors. Immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, Western blots and RT-PCR show that P2X(4) and P2X(7) receptors are the most prominent in both macrophage types, while the expression of the other P2X subunits is variable and sometimes weak or undetectable. These techniques also demonstrated the presence of mRNA for P2Y(1), P2Y(2), P2Y(4) and P2Y(6) receptors along with protein expression for the three subtypes we investigated, namely, P2Y(1), P2Y(2) and P2Y(4).

Enhanced expression of the P2X4 receptor in Duchenne muscular dystrophy correlates with macrophage invasion

Following molecular and immunohistochemical analysis of the purinergic P2X4 receptor subunit in dystrophin-deficient muscle we have identified a distinct subpopulation of P2X4-positive cells infiltrating the dystrophic fibres. These cells were absent from normal muscle and rarely present in the dystrophic muscle taken before and after the onset of degeneration. We have identified these P2X4-positive cells as macrophages, demonstrating for the first time that human and mouse tissue macrophages express P2X4 in addition to P2X7 receptor subunits both in vitro and in situ. Moreover, we have demonstrated that the increase in the P2X4 expression is yet another feature of an inflammatory response identified in DNA arrays of dystrophic muscle. Immunohistochemical analysis failed to localise discernible expression of P2X4 protein in adult skeletal or cardiac muscle fibres, whilst myoblasts in culture expressed low levels of this subunit, as detected by RT-PCR and Western blotting. In light of the involvement of macrophages in the dystrophic process, the function of P2X receptors and their role in the Duchenne pathology as well as their potential role in therapeutic applications are discussed.

Extracellular nucleotides act through P2X7 receptors to activate NF-kappaB in osteoclasts

Nucleotides, released in response to mechanical and other stimuli, act on P2 receptors in osteoclasts and other cell types. In vitro studies of osteoclasts from rabbits and P2X7 receptor-deficient mice revealed that P2X7 receptors couple to activation of the key transcription factor NF-kappaB.

INTRODUCTION

Osteoclasts express functional P2X4 and P2X7 receptors, which are ATP-gated cation channels. Knockout (KO) of the P2X7 receptor has revealed its role in regulating bone formation and resorption, but the underlying signals are not known. The transcription factor NF-kappaB plays a key role in the response of osteoclasts to RANKL and other cytokines. The aim of this study was to examine whether P2X receptors on osteoclasts signal through NF-kappaB.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Osteoclasts were isolated from neonatal rabbits or wildtype (WT) and P2X7 receptor KO mice. Immunofluorescence was used to detect the p65 subunit of NF-kappaB, which, on activation, translocates from the cytosol to the nuclei. The concentration of cytosolic free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) was monitored in single osteoclasts loaded with fura-2.

RESULTS

In control samples, few rabbit osteoclasts demonstrated nuclear localization of NF-kappaB. Benzoyl-benzoyl-ATP (BzATP, a P2X7 agonist, 300 microM) induced nuclear translocation of NF-kappaB after 3 h in approximately 45% of rabbit osteoclasts. In contrast, a low concentration of ATP (10 microM, sufficient to activate P2X4 and P2Y2, but not P2X7 receptors) did not induce nuclear translocation of NF-kappaB. Because BzATP activates multiple P2 receptors, we examined responses of osteoclasts derived from WT and P2X7 receptor KO mice. Treatment with BzATP for 30 minutes increased nuclear localization of NF-kappaB in osteoclasts from WT but not KO mice, showing involvement of P2X7 receptors. Both ATP (10 microM) and BzATP (300 microM) caused transient elevation of [Ca2+]i, indicating that rise of calcium alone is not sufficient to activate NF-kappaB. Pretreatment of rabbit osteoclasts with osteoprotegerin inhibited translocation of NF-kappaB induced by RANKL but not by BzATP, establishing that the effects of BzATP are independent of RANKL signaling.

CONCLUSION

These findings show that P2X7 nucleotide receptors couple to activation of NF-kappaB in osteoclasts. Thus, nucleotides, released at sites of inflammation or in response to mechanical stimuli, may act through NF-kappaB to regulate osteoclast formation and activity.

Cellular Distribution and Functions of P2 Receptor Subtypes in Different Systems

This review is aimed at providing readers with a comprehensive reference article about the distribution and function of P2 receptors in all the organs, tissues, and cells in the body. Each section provides an account of the early history of purinergic signaling in the organ?cell up to 1994, then summarizes subsequent evidence for the presence of P2X and P2Y receptor subtype mRNA and proteins as well as functional data, all fully referenced. A section is included describing the plasticity of expression of P2 receptors during development and aging as well as in various pathophysiological conditions. Finally, there is some discussion of possible future developments in the purinergic signaling field.

Purinergic receptor expression in the regenerating epidermis in a rat model of normal and delayed wound healing

This study investigated changes in the protein expression of purinergic receptors in the regenerating rat epidermis during normal wound healing, in denervated wounds, and in denervated wounds treated with nerve growth factor (NGF), where wound healing rates are normalized. Excisional wounds were placed within denervated, pedicled, oblique, groin skin flaps, and in the contralateral abdomen to act as a control site. Six rats had NGF-treated wounds and six had untreated wounds. Tissue was harvested at day four after wounding. The re-epithelializing wound edges were analyzed immunohistochemically for P2X(5), P2X(7), P2Y(1) and P2Y(2) receptors, and immunostaining of keratinocytes was quantified using optical densitometry. In normal rat epidermis, P2Y(1) and P2Y(2) receptors were found in the basal layer where keratinocytes proliferate; P2X(5) receptors were associated with proliferating and differentiating epidermal keratinocytes in basal and suprabasal layers; P2X(7) receptors were associated with terminally differentiated keratinocytes in the stratum corneum. In the regenerating epidermis of denervated wounds, P2Y(1) receptor protein expression was significantly increased in keratinocytes (P<0.001) but P2Y(1) receptors (P<0.001) compared with untreated denervated wounds. In innervated wounds, NGF treatment enhanced expression in keratinocytes. P2X(5) (P>0.001) and P2Y(1) receptor protein (P<0.001) expression in keratinocytes. P2X(7) receptors were absent in all experimental wound healing preparations. P2X(5), P2X(7), P2Y(1) and P2Y(2) receptor protein expression in the regenerating epidermis was altered both during wound healing and also by NGF treatment. Possible roles for purinergic signalling and its relation to NGF in wound healing are discussed.

Purinergic Receptors Are Part of a Signaling System for Keratinocyte Proliferation, Differentiation, and Apoptosis in Human Fetal Epidermis

We have investigated the expression of P2X5, P2X7, P2Y1, and P2Y2 receptor subtypes in 8- to 11-wk-old human fetal epidermis in relation to markers of proliferation (proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and Ki-67), keratinocyte differentiation (cytokeratin K10 and involucrin), and markers of apoptosis (TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) and anti-caspase-3). Immunohistochemistry showed that each of the four receptors was expressed in spatially distinct zones of the developing epidermis: P2Y1 receptors were found in the basal layer, P2X5 receptors were predominantly in the basal and intermediate layers, and both P2Y2 and P2X7 receptors were in the periderm. Colocalization experiments suggested different functional roles for these receptors. P2Y1 receptors were found in fetal keratinocytes positive for PCNA and Ki-67, suggesting a role in proliferation. P2X5 receptors double labeled with differentiated fetal keratinocytes that were positive for cytokeratin K10, suggesting a role in differentiation. P2X7 receptors colocalized with anti-caspase-3 antibody and were also expressed in periderm cells positive for TUNEL, suggesting a role in periderm cell apoptosis. P2Y2 receptors were found only in periderm cells and may have a role in chloride and fluid secretion into the amniotic fluid.

Extracellular ATP as a signaling molecule for epithelial cells

The charge of this invited review is to present a convincing case for the fact that cells release their ATP for physiological reasons. Many of our "purinergic" colleagues as well as ourselves have experienced resistance to this concept, because it is teleologically counter-intuitive. This review serves to integrate the three main tenets of extracellular ATP signaling: ATP release from cells, ATP receptors on cells, and ATP receptor-driven signaling within cells to affect cell or tissue physiology. First principles will be discussed in the Introduction concerning extracellular ATP signaling. All possible cellular mechanisms of ATP release will then be presented. Use of nucleotide and nucleoside scavengers as well as broad-specificity purinergic receptor antagonists will be presented as a method of detecting endogenous ATP release affecting a biological endpoint. Innovative methods of detecting released ATP by adapting luciferase detection reagents or by using "biosensors" will be presented. Because our laboratory has been primarily interested in epithelial cell physiology and pathophysiology for several years, the role of extracellular ATP in regulation of epithelial cell function will be the focus of this review. For ATP release to be physiologically relevant, receptors for ATP are required at the cell surface. The families of P2Y G protein-coupled receptors and ATP-gated P2X receptor channels will be introduced. Particular attention will be paid to P2X receptor channels that mediate the fast actions of extracellular ATP signaling, much like neurotransmitter-gated channels versus metabotropic heptahelical neurotransmitter receptors that couple to G proteins. Finally, fascinating biological paradigms in which extracellular ATP signaling has been implicated will be highlighted. It is the goal of this review to convert and attract new scientists into the exploding field of extracellular nucleotide signaling and to convince the reader that extracellular ATP is indeed a signaling molecule.

Release and interconversion of P2 receptor agonists by human osteoblast-like cells

Nucleotides, acting as agonists at P2 receptors, are important extracellular signaling molecules in many tissues. In bone they affect both bone-forming osteoblast and bone-resorbing osteoclast cell activity. The presence of nucleotides in the extracellular microenvironment is largely determined by their release from cells and metabolism by ecto-enzymes, both of which have scarcely been studied in bone. We have investigated adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) release from SaOS-2 osteoblastic cells and the activities of cell surface ecto-enzymes on ATP metabolism. ATP, but not LDH, was detected in SaOS-2 cell conditioned medium, suggesting these cells were actively releasing ATP. Introduction of ADP resulted in increased ATP concentrations in the medium, which was found not to be receptor mediated. Nucleotide inhibition and substrate specificity studies revealed an ecto-nucleoside diphosphokinase (ecto-NDPK) was responsible for the ADP-->ATP conversion; PCR and immunocytochemistry confirmed its presence. Analysis of ATP metabolism over time demonstrated overall ATP degradation was increased by inhibiting ecto-NDPK activity; confirming that the combined action of multiple osteoblast-expressed ecto-enzymes affected extracellular nucleotide concentration. The data establish the coexistence of ATP-consuming, and for the first time, ATP-generating activities on the osteoblast cell surface, the discovery of which has significant implications for studies involving P2 receptor subtypes in bone.

Expression of purinergic receptors in non-melanoma skin cancers and their functional roles in A431 cells

We investigated the use of purinergic receptors as a new treatment modality for nonmelanoma skin cancers. Purinergic receptors, which bind adenosine 5'-tri-phosphate, are expressed on human cutaneous keratinocytes. Previous work in rat and human epidermis suggested functional roles for purinergic receptors in the regulation of proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Immunohistochemical analysis of frozen sections in human basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas for P2X5, P2X7, P2Y1, P2Y2, and P2Y4 receptors was performed, accompanied by detailed analysis of archive material of tumor subtypes in paraffin sections. Functional studies were performed using a human cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma cell line (A431), where purinergic receptor subtype agonists were applied to cells and changes in cell number were quantified via a colorimetric assay. Immunostaining in paraffin sections was essentially the same as that in frozen sections, although more detail of the subcellular composition was visible. P2X5 and P2Y2 receptors were heavily expressed in basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas. P2X7 receptors were expressed in the necrotic center of nodular basal cell carcinomas and in apoptotic cells in superficial multifocal and infiltrative basal cell carcinomas, and squamous cell carcinomas. P2Y1 receptors were only expressed in the stroma surrounding tumors. P2Y4 receptors were found in basal cell carcinomas but not in squamous cell carcinomas. P2X5 receptors appear to be associated with differentiation. The P2X7 receptor agonist benzoylbenzoyl-adenosine 5'-triphosphate and high concentrations of adenosine 5'-triphosphate (1000-5000 microM) caused a significant reduction in A431 cell number (p<0.001), whereas the P2Y2 receptor agonist uridine 5'-triphosphate caused a significant amount of proliferation (p<0.001). We have demonstrated that non-melanoma skin cancers express functional purinergic receptors and that P2X7 receptor agonists significantly reduce cell numbers in vitro.

Hypoxia is a major stimulator of osteoclast formation and bone resorption

Hypoxia is known to act as a general stimulator of cells derived from marrow precursors. We investigated the effect of oxygen tension on the formation and function of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for bore resorption, which are of promonocytic origin. Using 7- and 13-day cultures of mouse marrow cells on ivory discs, we found that reducing oxygen tension from the ambient atmospheric level of 20% by increasing the proportion of nitrogen caused progressive increases in the formation of multinucleated osteoclasts and resorption pits. Peak effects occurred in 2% oxygen, where stimulations of resorption up to 21-fold were measured. Significant stimulations of osteoclast formation and resorption were observed even in severely hypoxic cultures gassed with 0.2% oxygen. Short-term cultures of cells disaggregated from rat bones indicated that hypoxia did not alter the resorptive activity of mature osteoclasts, but reduced their survival or adherence. In 3-day organ cultures of mouse calvarial bones, exposure to 2% oxygen resulted in maximal, fivefold stimulation of osteoclast-mediated calcium release, an effect equivalent to that of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), a reference osteolytic agent. Hypoxia also caused a moderate acidosis in calvarial cultures, presumably as a result of increased anaerobic metabolism; this observation is significant because osteoclast activation is dependent on extracellular acidification. Our experiments reveal a previously-overlooked mechanism of considerable potential importance for the regulation of bone destruction. These findings may help explain the bone loss associated with a wide range of pathological states involving local or systemic hypoxia, and emphasize the importance of the vasculature in bone.

Purinergic receptors are part of a functional signaling system for proliferation and differentiation of human epidermal keratinocytes

We investigated the expression of P2X5, P2X7, P2Y1 and P2Y2 receptor subtypes in normal human epidermis and in relation to markers of proliferation (PCNA and Ki-67), keratinocyte differentiation (cytokeratin K10 and involucrin) and markers of apoptosis (TUNEL and anticaspase-3). Using immunohistochemistry, we showed that each of the four receptors was expressed in a spatially distinct zone of the epidermis, suggesting different functional roles for these receptors. Functional studies were performed on primary cultures of human keratinocytes and on explanted rat skin, where different P2 receptor subtype agonists and antagonists were applied to cultured keratinocytes or injected subcutaneously into the skin, respectively. An increase in cell number was caused by low doses of the nonspecific P2 receptor agonist ATP, the P2Y2 receptor agonist UTP (p<0.001), and the P2Y1 receptor agonist 2MeSADP (p<0.05). There was a significant decrease in cell number as a result of treatment with the P2X5 receptor agonist ATPgammaS (p<0.001) and the P2X7 receptor agonist BzATP (p<0.001). Suramin caused a significant block in the effect of 100 microm ATP (p<0.01) and 1000 microm ATP (p<0.001) on cell number. These results imply that different purinergic receptors have different functional roles in the human epidermis with P2Y1 and P2Y2 receptors controlling proliferation, while P2X5 and P2X7 receptors control early differentiation, terminal differentiation and death of keratinocytes, respectively.

Regulation of bone resorption and formation by purines and pyrimidines

Growing evidence suggests that extracellular nucleotides, signalling through P2 receptors, might play important roles in the regulation of bone and cartilage metabolism. ATP and other nucleotides can exert impressive stimulatory effects on the formation and activity of osteoclasts (bone-resorbing cells) in addition to inhibiting bone formation by osteoblasts. In this review, the current understanding of the actions of nucleotides on skeletal cells and the probable receptor subtypes involved are discussed.

Fluid flow-induced prostaglandin E2 response of osteoblastic ROS 17/2.8 cells is gap junction-mediated and independent of cytosolic calcium

It has been well demonstrated that bone adapts to mechanical loading. To accomplish this at the cellular level, bone cells must be responsive to mechanical loading (mechanoresponsive). This can occur via such mechanisms as direct cell deformation or signal transduction via complex pathways involving chemotransport, hormone response, and/or gene expression, to name a few. Mechanotransduction is the process by which a bone cell senses a biophysical signal and elicits a response. While it has been demonstrated that bone cells can respond to a wide variety of biophysical signals including fluid flow, stretch, and magnetic fields, the exact pathways and mechanisms involved are not clearly understood. We postulated that gap junctions may play an important role in bone cell responsiveness. Gap junctions (GJ) are membrane-spanning channels that physically link cells and support the transport of small molecules and ions in the process of gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC). In this study we examined the role of GJ and GJIC in mechanically stimulated osteoblastic cells. Following fluid flow stimulation, we quantified prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) (oscillatory flow) and cytosolic calcium (Ca(2+)) (oscillatory and steady flow) responses in ROS 17/2.8 cells and a derivative of these cells expressing antisense cDNA for the gap junction protein connexin 43 (RCx16) possessing significantly different levels of GJIC. We found that the ROS17/2.8 cells possessing increased GJIC also exhibited increased PGE(2) release to the supernatant following oscillatory fluid flow stimulation in comparison to coupling-decreased RCx16 cells. Interestingly, we found that neither osteoblastic cell line responded to oscillatory or steady fluid flow stimulation with an increase in Ca(2+). Thus, our results suggest that GJ and GJIC may be important in the mechanotransduction mechanisms by which PGE(2) is mechanically induced in osteoblastic cells independent of Ca(2+).

ATP and UTP at low concentrations strongly inhibit bone formation by osteoblasts: a novel role for the P2Y2 receptor in bone remodeling

There is increasing evidence that extracellular nucleotides act on bone cells via multiple P2 receptors. The naturally-occurring ligand ATP is a potent agonist at all receptor subtypes, whereas ADP and UTP only act at specific receptor subtypes. We have reported that the formation and resorptive activity of rodent osteoclasts are stimulated powerfully by both extracellular ATP and its first degradation product, ADP, the latter acting at nanomolar concentrations, probably via the P2Y1 receptor subtype. In the present study, we investigated the actions of ATP, ADP, adenosine, and UTP on osteoblastic function. In 16-21 day cultures of primary rat calvarial osteoblasts, ADP and the selective P2Y1 agonist 2-methylthioADP were without effect on bone nodule formation at concentrations between 1 and 125 microM, as was adenosine. However, UTP, a P2Y2 and P2Y4 receptor agonist, known to be without effect on osteoclast function, strongly inhibited bone nodule formation at concentrations >or= 1 microM. ATP was inhibitory at >or= 10 microM. Rat osteoblasts express P2Y2, but not P2Y4 receptor mRNA, as determined by in situ hybridization. Thus, the low-dose effects of extracellular nucleotides on bone formation and bone resorption appear to be mediated via different P2Y receptor subtypes: ADP, signalling through the P2Y1 receptor on both osteoclasts and osteoblasts, is a powerful stimulator of osteoclast formation and activity, whereas UTP, signalling via the P2Y2 receptor on osteoblasts, blocks bone formation by osteoblasts. ATP, the 'universal' agonist, can simultaneously stimulate resorption and inhibit bone formation. These findings suggest that extracellular nucleotides could function locally as important negative modulators of bone metabolism, perhaps contributing to bone loss in a number of pathological states.

Adenosine triphosphate stimulates human osteoclast activity via upregulation of osteoblast-expressed receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand

Nucleotides such as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and uridine triphosphate (UTP) exist in the extracellular environment where they are agonists at P2 receptors. Both P2Y G-protein-coupled receptors and P2X ligand-gated ion channels are expressed by osteoblasts and osteoclasts, reflected in the diverse nucleotide-induced effects reported to occur in bone. Previous reports have implicated ATP as a proresorptive agent; however, these studies were unable to determine whether ATP mediated its actions directly on osteoclasts, or indirectly via osteoblasts. The development of techniques to generate human osteoclasts in vitro has allowed us to further investigate the intriguing role of extracellular nucleotides with regard to osteoclast activity. This study reports that nearly all P2-receptor-subtype mRNAs were expressed throughout human osteoclast development, and provides evidence for functional P2 receptor expression by these cells. In cultures of human osteoclasts alone, neither ATP nor UTP affected the quantity of resorption by these cells; however, in cocultures of osteoblast-like UMR-106 cells and human osteoclasts, ATP, but not UTP, greatly enhanced resorption, indicating a role for osteoblasts in mediating the proresorptive effects of ATP. Furthermore, ATP, but not UTP, elevated receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand (RANKL) mRNA and protein expression by UMR-106 cells. These data are consistent with observations that UMR-106 cells predominantly express P2Y(1) with low expression of P2Y(2), thereby explaining the response to ATP and not UTP, and further substantiating the involvement of osteoblasts in ATP-induced effects on osteoclasts. These results significantly advance our understanding of the role of P2 receptors in bone, and indicate that local-acting ATP may play a pivotal role in osteoclast activation at bone-resorbing sites by inducing elevated expression of RANKL.

Molecular physiology of P2X receptors

P2X receptors are membrane ion channels that open in response to the binding of extracellular ATP. Seven genes in vertebrates encode P2X receptor subunits, which are 40-50% identical in amino acid sequence. Each subunit has two transmembrane domains, separated by an extracellular domain (approximately 280 amino acids). Channels form as multimers of several subunits. Homomeric P2X1, P2X2, P2X3, P2X4, P2X5, and P2X7 channels and heteromeric P2X2/3 and P2X1/5 channels have been most fully characterized following heterologous expression. Some agonists (e.g., alphabeta-methylene ATP) and antagonists [e.g., 2',3'-O-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)-ATP] are strongly selective for receptors containing P2X1 and P2X3 subunits. All P2X receptors are permeable to small monovalent cations; some have significant calcium or anion permeability. In many cells, activation of homomeric P2X7 receptors induces a permeability increase to larger organic cations including some fluorescent dyes and also signals to the cytoskeleton; these changes probably involve additional interacting proteins. P2X receptors are abundantly distributed, and functional responses are seen in neurons, glia, epithelia, endothelia, bone, muscle, and hemopoietic tissues. The molecular composition of native receptors is becoming understood, and some cells express more than one type of P2X receptor. On smooth muscles, P2X receptors respond to ATP released from sympathetic motor nerves (e.g., in ejaculation). On sensory nerves, they are involved in the initiation of afferent signals in several viscera (e.g., bladder, intestine) and play a key role in sensing tissue-damaging and inflammatory stimuli. Paracrine roles for ATP signaling through P2X receptors are likely in neurohypophysis, ducted glands, airway epithelia, kidney, bone, and hemopoietic tissues. In the last case, P2X7 receptor activation stimulates cytokine release by engaging intracellular signaling pathways.

Glutamatergic innervation in bone

Bone is highly innervated, and evidence for a regulation of bone metabolism by nerve fibers has been suggested by many clinical and experimental studies. However, the nature of the neuromediators involved in these processes has not been well documented. Glutamate (Glu), a major neuromediator of the central nervous system (CNS), was recently identified in nerve fibers running in bone marrow in close contact with bone cells, suggesting that Glu may also act as a neuromediator in this tissue. During the last few years, all the machinery required for glutamate signalling in the CNS was demonstrated in bone. Osteoblasts and osteoclasts express ionotropic Glu receptors (iGluR) (NMDA, AMPA, and Kainate) and metabotropic Glu receptors (mGluR) as well as Glu transporters. Electrophysiological studies have demonstrated that NMDA receptors (NMDAR) and mGluR are functional on bone cells. NMDAR are involved in osteoclast formation and bone resorption and preliminary studies suggest that they may also participate in mechanisms underlying osteoblast proliferation or differentiation, providing evidence for a direct action of Glu on bone cells. The bone loss induced in a model of sciatic neurectomy in growing rats is associated with a decrease of glutamatergic innervation, suggesting that Glu released by nerve fibers may contribute to the regulation of bone remodeling. The manipulation of Glu action in bone may, therefore, represent a new therapeutic target for pathologies associated with modifications of bone remodeling.

ATP can enhance the proton-induced CGRP release through P2Y receptors and secondary PGE(2) release in isolated rat dura mater

Trigeminal afferent neurons express ionotropic P2X receptors for extracellular ATP which are known to be sensitive to low interstitial pH. Both conditions - ATP release and tissue acidosis - may occur in the dura following the ischemia phase of migraine attacks. Aim of this study was to investigate whether and how ATP and protons may cooperate in exciting meningeal afferents. After removal of the cerebral hemispheres hemisected scull cavities of adult Wistar rats were used as organ bath of their own lining, the dura mater. The dura was chemically stimulated and the amounts of immunoreactive calcitonin gene-related peptide (iCGRP) and prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) released into incubation fluid were measured using enzyme immunoassays. Stimulation with ATP (10(-4) and 10(-3)M) augmented iPGE(2) release dose-dependently whereas iCGRP secretion was minimally enhanced only if the dura had previously been depleted of extracellular ATP using hexokinase. Acid buffer solutions (pH 5.9 and 5.4) resulted in pH-dependent increase of iCGRP release but reduced iPGE(2) release. Purines (ATP 10(-3)>UTP 10(-4)M>ATP 10(-4)M) and PGE(2) (10(-5)M) were found to facilitate the proton-induced increase in iCGRP release. The proton-reduction of PGE(2) release was overcome by adding ATP (10(-3)M). S(+)-flurbiprofen (10(-6)M) suppressed both the basal and stimulated iPGE(2) release and prevented the ATP(10(-4)M)-induced facilitation of the proton response. The facilitating effect of ATP was also blocked under suramin, a non-selective P2 antagonist, and under reactive blue, an non-selective P2Y-antagonist, but not under pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulphonic acid, a P2X-antagonist. The present results provide evidence that ATP has poor, if at all, direct excitatory effects on CGRP-containing trigeminal nerve endings in the isolated dura and its facilitatory action seems to depend on G-protein coupled P2Y receptors and secondary PGE(2) release. The UTP effect and the antagonist profile is indicative for the P2Y(2) receptor subtype.

Activity-dependent development of P2X7 current and Ca2+ entry in rabbit osteoclasts

Bone remodeling is regulated by local factors and modulated by mechanical stimuli. Mechanical stimulation can cause release of ATP, an agent that stimulates osteoclastic resorption at low concentrations and inhibits at high concentrations. We examined whether osteoclasts express P2X(7) receptors, which are activated by high concentrations of ATP and can behave as ion channels or cause the formation of membrane pores. Rabbit osteoclasts were studied using patch clamp techniques. Successive or prolonged applications of 2'- & 3'-O-(4-benzoylbenzoyl)-ATP (BzATP, a relatively potent P2X(7) agonist) or high concentrations of ATP caused the development of a slowly deactivating inward current. The underlying channel was permeable only to small cations, ruling out pore formation. Divalent cations reduced current magnitude, consistent with the presence of P2X(7) receptors, a finding confirmed in rat osteoclasts by immunocytochemistry. Successive applications of BzATP also elicited [Ca(2+)](i) elevations that required extracellular Ca(2+). The BzATP-induced current and the rise of [Ca(2+)](i) were temporally associated, and both were inhibited by PPADS, a P2X(7) antagonist. This study demonstrates that high concentrations of ATP activate P2X(7) receptors and provides the first functional evidence for an extracellular ligand-gated Ca(2+) influx pathway in osteoclasts. ATP released in response to mechanical stimuli may act through P2X(7) receptors to inhibit osteoclastic resorption.

Activation of P2Y but not P2X(4) nucleotide receptors causes elevation of [Ca2+]i in mammalian osteoclasts

Extracellular nucleotides cause elevation of cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+](i)) in osteoclasts, although the sources of Ca2+ are uncertain. Activation of P2Y receptors causes Ca2+ release from stores, whereas P2X receptors are ligand-gated channels that mediate Ca2+ influx in some cell types. To examine the sources of Ca2+, we studied osteoclasts from rat and rabbit using fura 2 fluorescence and patch clamp. Nucleotide-induced rise of ([Ca2+](i)) persisted on removal of extracellular Ca2+ (Ca), indicating involvement of stores. Inhibition of phospholipase C (PLC) with U-73122 or inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase with cyclopiazonic acid or thapsigargin abolished the rise of ([Ca2+](i)). After store depletion in the absence of Ca, addition of Ca led to a rise of ([Ca2+](i)) consistent with store-operated Ca2+ influx. Store-operated Ca2+ influx was greater at negative potentials and was blocked by La(3+). In patch-clamp studies where PLC was blocked, ATP induced inward current indicating activation of P2X(4) nucleotide receptors, but with no rise of ([Ca2+](i)). We conclude that nucleotide-induced elevation of [Ca(2+)](i) in osteoclasts arises primarily through activation of P2Y nucleotide receptors, leading to release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores.

Extracellular ADP is a powerful osteolytic agent: evidence for signaling through the P2Y(1) receptor on bone cells

There is increasing evidence that extracellular nucleotides act on bone cells via P2 receptors. This study investigated the action of ADP and 2-methylthioADP, a potent ADP analog with selectivity for the P2Y(1) receptor, on osteoclasts, the bone-resorbing multinuclear cells. Using three different assays, we show that ADP and 2-methylthioADP at nanomolar to submicromolar levels caused up to fourfold to sixfold increases in osteoclastic bone resorption. On mature rat osteoclasts, cultured for 1 day on polished dentine disks, peak effects on resorption pit formation were observed between 20 nM and 2 microM of ADP. The same concentrations of ADP also stimulated osteoclast and resorption pit formation in 10-day mouse marrow cultures on dentine disks. In 3-day explant cultures of mouse calvarial bones, the stimulatory effect of ADP on osteoclast-mediated Ca(2+) release was greatest at 5-50 microM and equivalent to the maximal effects of prostaglandin E(2). The ADP effects were blocked in a nontoxic manner by MRS 2179, a P2Y(1) receptor antagonist. Using in situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry, we found evidence for P2Y(1) receptor expression on both osteoclasts and osteoblasts; thus, ADP could exert its actions both directly on osteoclasts and indirectly via P2Y(1) receptors on osteoblasts. As a major ATP degradation product, ADP is a novel stimulator of bone resorption that could help mediate inflammatory bone loss in vivo.