Acute loss of cell-cell communication caused by G protein-coupled receptors: a critical role for c-Src

Regulation of gap junctions by tyrosine protein kinases

Most of the gap junction proteins are regulated in part by post-translational phosphorylation. Phosphorylation has been shown to be important in gap junction assembly and turnover, and for channel function in the resting state. Connexin phosphorylation may be altered by the activation of intracellular signaling pathways in response to growth factors, tumor promoters, activated oncogenes, hormones and inflammatory mediators. In some instances altered phosphorylation has been associated with changes in connexin function and in other cases appears to be associated with changes in the levels of the connexin protein and/or mRNA. This review focuses on the role of tyrosine protein kinases in the regulation of gap junctions. The literature is most extensive for connexin43 and those studies are reviewed here. A great deal has been learned in recent years about how connexin43 is regulated by tyrosine kinase-dependent signaling pathways. These pathways are often complex and to some extent are cell type- and stimulus-dependent. Although considerable progress has been made in unraveling the cellular pathways that regulate connexin function, significant challenges remain to be addressed in identifying additional phosphorylation sites and determining the stoichiometries of the phosphorylation events that regulate connexin function and it's interaction with other cellular proteins.

Distinct roles for Src tyrosine kinase in beta2-adrenergic receptor signaling to MAPK and in receptor internalization

G protein-coupled receptors form the largest family of membrane receptors and transmit diverse ligand signals to modulate various cellular responses. After activation by their ligands, some of these G protein-coupled receptors are desensitized, internalized (endocytosed), and down-regulated (degraded). In HEK 293 cells, the G(s)-coupled beta2-adrenergic receptor was postulated to initiate a second wave of signaling, such as the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway after the receptor is internalized. The tyrosine kinase c-Src plays a critical role in these events. Here we used mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cells deficient in Src family tyrosine kinases to examine the role of Src in beta2-adrenergic receptor signaling to the MAPK pathway and in receptor internalization. We found that in Src-deficient cells the beta2-adrenergic receptor could activate the MAPK pathway. However, the internalization of beta2-adrenergic receptors was blocked in Src-deficient MEF cells. Furthermore, we observed that in MEF cells deficient in beta-arrestin 2 the internalization of the beta2-adrenergic receptor was impaired, whereas the activation of the MAPK pathway by the beta2-adrenergic receptor was normal. Our data demonstrate that although Src and beta-arrestin 2 play essential roles in beta2-adrenergic receptor internalization, they are not required for the activation of the MAPK pathway by the beta2-adrenergic receptor. In other words, our finding suggests that receptor internalization is not required for beta2-adrenergic receptor signaling to the MAPK pathway in MEF cells.

The ins and outs of lysophosphatidic acid signaling

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a lipid mediator with a wide variety of biological actions, particularly as an inducer of cell proliferation, migration and survival. LPA binds to specific G-protein-coupled receptors and thereby activates multiple signal transduction pathways, including those initiated by the small GTPases Ras, Rho, and Rac. LPA signaling has been implicated in such diverse processes as wound healing, brain development, vascular remodeling and tumor progression. Knowledge of precisely how and where LPA is produced has long proved elusive. Excitingly, it has recently been discovered that LPA is generated from precursors by 'autotaxin', a once enigmatic exo-phosphodiesterase implicated in tumor cell motility. Exogenous phospholipases D can also produce LPA, which may contribute to their toxicity. Here we review recent progress in our understanding of LPA bioactivity, signaling and synthesis.

Genetics and cell biology of lysophosphatidic acid receptor-mediated signaling during cortical neurogenesis

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a small lysophospholipid that signals through G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) to mediate diverse cellular responses. Two LPA receptors, LPA(1) and LPA(2), show gene expression profiles in mouse embryonic cerebral cortex, suggesting roles for LPA signaling in cerebral cortical development. Here, we review loss-of-function and gain-of-function models that have been used to examine LPA signaling. Genetic deletion of lpa(1) or both lpa(1) and lpa(2) in mice results in 50-65% neonatal lethality, but not obvious cortical phenotypes in survivors, suggesting that compensatory signaling systems exist for regulating cortical development. A gain-of-function model, approached by increasing receptor activation through exogenous delivery of LPA, shows that LPA signaling regulates cerebral cortical growth and anatomy by affecting proliferation, differentiation and cell survival during embryonic development.

Plasma membrane channels formed by connexins: their regulation and functions

Members of the connexin gene family are integral membrane proteins that form hexamers called connexons. Most cells express two or more connexins. Open connexons found at the nonjunctional plasma membrane connect the cell interior with the extracellular milieu. They have been implicated in physiological functions including paracrine intercellular signaling and in induction of cell death under pathological conditions. Gap junction channels are formed by docking of two connexons and are found at cell-cell appositions. Gap junction channels are responsible for direct intercellular transfer of ions and small molecules including propagation of inositol trisphosphate-dependent calcium waves. They are involved in coordinating the electrical and metabolic responses of heterogeneous cells. New approaches have expanded our knowledge of channel structure and connexin biochemistry (e.g., protein trafficking/assembly, phosphorylation, and interactions with other connexins or other proteins). The physiological role of gap junctions in several tissues has been elucidated by the discovery of mutant connexins associated with genetic diseases and by the generation of mice with targeted ablation of specific connexin genes. The observed phenotypes range from specific tissue dysfunction to embryonic lethality.

Galpha12 regulates epithelial cell junctions through Src tyrosine kinases

Regulation and assembly of the epithelial cell junctional complex involve multiple signaling mechanisms, including heterotrimeric G proteins. Recently, we demonstrated that Galpha12 binds to the tight junction scaffolding protein ZO-1 through the SH3 domain and that activated Galpha12 increases paracellular permeability in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells (Meyer et al. J Biol Chem 277: 24855-24858, 2002). In the present studies, we explore the effects of Galpha12 expression on tight and adherens junction proteins and examine downstream signaling pathways. By confocal microscopy, we detect disrupted tight and adherens junction proteins with increased actin stress fibers in constitutively active Galpha12 (QLalpha12)-expressing MDCK cells. The normal distribution of ZO-1 and Na-K-ATPase was altered in QLalpha12-expressing MDCK cells, consistent with loss of polarity. We found that the tyrosine kinase inhibitor genistein and the Src-specific inhibitor PP-2 reversibly abrogated the QLalpha12 phenotype on the junctional complex. Junctional protein localization was preserved in PP-2- or genistein-treated QLalpha12-expressing cells, and the increase in paracellular permeability as measured by transepithelial resistance and [3H]mannitol flux was prevented by the inhibitors. Src activity was increased in QLalpha12-expressing MDCK cells as assessed by Src autophosphorylation, and beta-catenin tyrosine phosphorylation was also increased, although there was no detectable increase in Rho activity. Taken together, these results indicate that Galpha12 regulates MDCK cell junctions, in part through Src tyrosine kinase pathways.

Endothelin-1 decreases gap junctional intercellular communication by inducing phosphorylation of connexin 43 in human ovarian carcinoma cells

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is overexpressed in ovarian carcinoma and acts as an autocrine factor selectively through the ETA receptor (ETAR) to promote tumor cell proliferation, survival, neovascularization, and invasiveness. Loss of gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) is critical for tumor progression by allowing the cells to escape growth control. Exposure of HEY and OVCA 433 ovarian carcinoma cell lines to ET-1 led to a 50-75% inhibition in intercellular communication and to a decrease in the connexin 43 (Cx43)-based gap junction plaques. To investigate the phosphorylation state of Cx43, ovarian carcinoma cell lysates were immunoprecipitated and transient tyrosine phosphorylation of Cx43 was detected in ET-1-treated cells. BQ 123, a selective ETAR antagonist, blocked the ET-1-induced Cx43 phosphorylation and cellular uncoupling. Gap junction closure was prevented by tyrphostin 25 and by the selective c-Src inhibitor, PP2. Furthermore, the increased Cx43 tyrosine phosphorylation was correlated with ET-1-induced increase of c-Src activity, and PP2 suppressed the ET-1-induced Cx43 tyrosine phosphorylation, indicating that inhibition of Cx43-based GJIC is mainly mediated by the Src tyrosine kinase pathway. In vivo, the inhibition of human ovarian tumor growth in nude mice induced by the potent ETAR antagonist, ABT-627, was associated with a reduction of Cx43 phosphorylation. These findings indicate that the signaling mechanisms involved in GJIC disruption on ovarian carcinoma cells depend on ETAR activation, which leads to the Cx43 tyrosine phosphorylation mediated by c-Src, suggesting that ETAR blockade may contribute to the control of ovarian carcinoma growth and progression also by preventing the loss of GJIC.

Prostaglandin F2 alpha induces unsynchronized intracellular calcium oscillations in monolayers of gap junctionally coupled NRK fibroblasts

We investigated the intracellular calcium oscillations induced by prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) in individual cells of confluent, gap junction-coupled monolayers of normal rat kidney (NRK) fibroblasts. PGF2alpha (1000 nM) induced oscillations in more than 90% of the cells in the monolayer, but the frequency of these oscillations was highly variable between individual cells (0.2-1.4 min(-1)). The initial calcium peak resulted from calcium release from IP3-sensitive stores, while subsequent calcium transients were mediated by interplay between both IP3-sensitive calcium stores and calcium influx. The oscillation frequency was increased by sensitizing the IP3 receptor with thimerosal (10 microM) and depended on the extracellular calcium concentration. Thapsigargin (5 nM), which inhibits reuptake of calcium into the stores, only seemed to reduce the amplitude of the oscillation. Patch-clamp experiments revealed that PGF2alpha did not inhibit electrical coupling of the NRK cells in the monolayer. Gap junctional permeability of NRK cells thus appears to be sufficient to allow electrical coupling, resulting in a uniform membrane potential throughout the entire monolayer, but insufficient to synchronize the intracellular calcium oscillations upon PGF2alpha stimulation.

ATP: a vasoactive signal in the pericyte-containing microvasculature of the rat retina

In this study we tested the hypothesis that extracellular ATP regulates the function of the pericyte-containing retinal microvessels. Pericytes, which are more numerous in the retina than in any other tissue, are abluminally located cells that may adjust capillary perfusion by contracting and relaxing. At present, knowledge of the vasoactive molecules that regulate pericyte function is limited. Here, we focused on the actions of extracellular ATP because this nucleotide is a putative glial-to-vascular signal, as well as being a substance released by activated platelets and injured cells. In microvessels freshly isolated from the adult rat retina, we monitored ionic currents via perforated-patch pipettes, measured intracellular calcium levels with the use of fura-2, and visualized microvascular contractions with the aid of time-lapse photography. We found that ATP induced depolarizing changes in the ionic currents, increased calcium levels and caused pericytes to contract. P2X7 receptors and UTP-activated receptors mediated these effects. Consistent with ATP serving as a vasoconstrictor for the pericyte-containing microvasculature of the retina, the microvascular lumen narrowed when an adjacent pericyte contracted. In addition, the sustained activation of P2X7 receptors inhibited cell-to-cell electrotonic transmission within the microvascular networks. Thus, ATP not only affects the contractility of individual pericytes, but also appears to regulate the spatial and temporal dynamics of the vasomotor response.

The emerging role of lysophosphatidic acid in cancer

The bioactive phospholipid lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) stimulates cell proliferation, migration and survival by acting on its cognate G-protein-coupled receptors. Aberrant LPA production, receptor expression and signalling probably contribute to cancer initiation, progression and metastasis. The recent identification of ecto-enzymes that mediate the production and degradation of LPA, as well as the development of receptor-selective analogues, indicate mechanisms by which LPA production or action could be modulated for cancer therapy.

Ilimaquinone inhibits gap-junctional communication prior to Golgi fragmentation and block in protein transport

Brefeldin A and ilimaquinone are compounds known to affect Golgi structure and function. In particular, the transport of proteins is blocked either at the level of exit from endoplasmic reticulum (brefeldin) or at cis-Golgi (ilimaquinone). Brefeldin caused a slow decrease in gap-junctional communication and a slow loss of all phosphorylated forms of connexin43 in hamster and rat fibroblasts, while ilimaquinone caused an abrupt decrease in gap-junctional communication and rapid loss of only the slowest migrating phosphorylated connexin43 band (P2). Ilimaquinone caused these effects prior to any significant Golgi fragmentation, especially in hamster fibroblasts. Concurrently, ilimaquinone minimally affected protein secretion, while brefeldin caused an instantaneous decrease. These results show that ilimaquinone inhibits gap-junctional communication in connexin43-expressing cells by a mechanism not dependent on Golgi fragmentation or block in protein transport.

Lipid factor (bVLF) from bovine vitreous body evokes in EGFR-T17 cells a Ca2+-dependent K+ current associated with inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-independent Ca2+ mobilization

Bovine vitreous lipid factor (bVLF) is a complex phospholipid isolated from bovine vitreous body with strong Ca(2+)-mobilizing activity. In this study, the effects of bVLF on membrane potential were investigated in EGFR-T17 fibroblasts with the whole-cell patch clamp technique on monolayer cells, as well as with the fluorescent dye bis-oxonol as membrane potential-sensitive probe on monolayer and suspension cells. bVLF induced a transient hyperpolarization characterized by an initial peak and subsequent return to resting membrane potential levels within 1-2 min. The increase of [Ca(2+)](i) was concomitant with an outward current responsible for the hyperpolarizing response. Results with: (a) high [K(+)](o) media; (b) the monovalent cation ionophore gramicidin; and (c) substitution of K(+) with Cs(+) in the intracellular solution were consistent with the involvement of K(+) channels. The bVLF-induced hyperpolarization was blocked by the K(+) channel blockers, quinine and tetraethylamonium chloride, and partially affected by 4-aminopyridine. The calcium ionophore ionomycin caused a similar hyperpolarization as bVLF. When intracellular calcium was buffered by adding BAPTA to the pipette solution, bVLF-activated outward current was prevented. Moreover, the hyperpolarization response was strongly reduced at low doses (3 nM) of specific Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channel blockers, charybdotoxin and iberiotoxin. Based on these observations we conclude that bVLF hyperpolarizes the cells via the activation of a Ca(2+)-dependent K(+) current. In addition, it was observed that bVLF did not have a significant effect on intercellular communication measured by a single patch-electrode technique. Thus, membrane potential changes appeared to belong to the earliest cellular responses triggered by bVLF, and are closely associated with phosphatidic acid-dependent [Ca(2+)](i) mobilization.

Unexpected induction of the human connexin 43 promoter by the ras signaling pathway is mediated by a novel putative promoter sequence

Connexin 43 (Cx43) is essential for survival and is tightly regulated at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. A number of previous studies have demonstrated altered expression in malignant tissues, and in the presence of carcinogenic factors. We examined the effect of protooncogenes of Cx43 expression, and found no effect on Cx43 promoter activity in cells transformed with Src or erbB2. On the other hand, we identified and characterized a novel sequence that mediates Cx43 promoter regulation in cell lines engineered to overexpress H-Ras. Compared with wild-type NIH3T3 cells, both Cx43 mRNA and protein levels are increased in NIH3T3-Ras cells. The H-Ras+ cells also have enhanced Cx43 promoter activation, which is inhibited by the MEK1 inhibitor 2'-amino-3'-methoxyflavone (PD98059), suggesting that Ras-mediated Cx43 overexpression is via the mitogen activated protein kinase kinase/extracellular signal-regulated pathway. Deletion analysis of the Cx43 promoter revealed a 200-bp region downstream of the Cx43 transcription start site as the minimal sequence essential for the Ras-mediated Cx43 up-regulation. Using this 200-base pair fragment in electrophoretic mobility shift assays, we identified one main protein complex that binds efficiently and is more abundant in nuclear extracts from NIH3T3-Ras and MCF7-Ras cells compared with their matched controls. This complex selectively recognizes a consensus sequence, AGTTCAATCA, located at positions +149 to +158 of the Cx43 promoter. Supershift assays identified the 90-kDa heat shock protein (HSP90) and c-Myc as constituents of this DNA-binding complex. Treatment of cells with the HSP90 inhibitor geldanamycin resulted in repression of the Cx43 promoter activity, and inhibits binding of the complex to the Cx43 promoter. Coimmunoprecipitation studies confirmed the interaction between endogenous HSP90 and c-Myc. This study provides evidence that the transcriptional up-regulation of Cx43 by Ras-Raf-MAPK is mediated via the interaction of a novel Cx43 promoter element with a protein complex that contains both HSP90 and c-Myc.

Connexin-43 interactions with ZO-1 and alpha- and beta-tubulin

Gap junctions are composed of connexins that form transmembrane channels between adjacent cells. The C-terminal tail of connexin-43 (Cx43), the most widely expressed connexin member, has been implicated in the regulation of Cx43 channel gating. Interestingly, channel-independent processes regulated by Cx43 have also been postulated. In our studies to elucidate the mechanism of Cx43 channel gating by growth factors and to explore additional functions of gap junctions, we have identified three interacting partners of the C-terminal tail of Cx43 (Cx43CT). (i) the c-Src tyrosine kinase, which phosphorylates Cx43CT and is involved in G protein-mediated inhibition of Cx43 gap junctional communication. (ii) the ZO-1 'scaffold' protein, which might recruit signaling proteins into Cx43-based gap junctions. (iii) microtubules (consisting of alpha/beta-tubulin dimers), which extend with their distal ends to Cx43-based gap junctions, suggesting that Cx43 gap junctions may play a novel role in regulating microtubule stability in contacted cells. Here we show that Cx43 binds alpha-tubulin equally well as beta-tubulin. In addition, we show that the second, but not the first, PDZ domain of ZO-1 binds directly to Cx43, and we confirm that the very C-terminal isoleucine residue of Cx43 is critical for ZO-1 binding.

Defective activation of c-Src in cystic fibrosis airway epithelial cells results in loss of tumor necrosis factor-alpha-induced gap junction regulation

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) signaling is central to the transmission of the innate immune response and subsequent activation of the adaptive immune system. The functioning of both systems is required for optimal clearance of pathogens from the airways. In cystic fibrosis (CF), dysfunction of the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is associated with recurrent pulmonary infections despite an intense inflammatory and immune response. We reported recently that TNF-alpha decreased gap junction connectivity in non-CF airway cells, a mechanism that was absent in CF cells expressing the DeltaPhe-508 mutant of CFTR. We have now identified the tyrosine kinase c-Src as a possible pathway between the mediators of inflammation and the gap junction protein connexin43 (Cx43). Indeed, TNF-alpha increased the proportion of activated c-Src in non-CF airway cells. Moreover, pharmacological antagonists and expression in non-CF cells of a dominant negative construct of c-Src prevented Cx43 channel closure by TNF-alpha. Finally, gap junction channel closure was prevented by expression of a Cx43 mutant lacking tyrosine phosphorylation sites for c-Src. Additional experiments showed that activation of c-Src was defective in CF airway cells but rescued in CFTR-corrected CF cells. These data suggest that CFTR dysfunction is associated with altered TNF-alpha signaling, resulting in the persistence of gap junction connectivity in CF airway cells. We propose that altered regulation of c-Src may contribute to the dysregulated inflammatory response that is characteristic of the CF phenotype.

Cell coupling and Cx43 expression in embryonic mouse neural progenitor cells

Embryonic neural progenitors isolated from the mouse striatal germinal zone grow in vitro as floating cell aggregates called neurospheres, which, upon adhesion, can be induced to differentiate into the three main cell types of the central nervous system (CNS), that is, astrocytes, neurons and oligodendrocytes. To study the possible role of connexins and junctional communication during differentiation of neural progenitors, we assessed cell-to-cell communication by microinjecting Lucifer Yellow into neurospheres at various times after adhesion. Cells located in neurospheres were strongly coupled, regardless of the differentiation time. Microinjections performed on the cell layers formed by differentiated cells migrating out of the neurosphere established that only astrocytes were coupled. These observations suggest the existence of at least three distinct communication compartments:coupled proliferating cells located in the sphere, uncoupled cells undergoing neuronal or oligodendrocytic differentiation and coupled differentiating astrocytes. A blockade of junctional communication by 18-β-glycyrrhetinic acid (βGA) reduced, in a concentration-dependent manner, the viability of undifferentiated neural progenitor cells. This effect appeared to be specific,inasmuch as it was reversible and that cell survival was not affected in the presence of the inactive analog glycyrrhyzic acid. Addition of βGA to adherent neurospheres also decreased cell density and altered the morphology of differentiated cells. Cx43 was strongly expressed in either undifferentiated or differentiated neurospheres, where it was found both within the sphere and in astrocytes, the two cell populations that were dye coupled. Western blot analysis further showed that Cx43 phosphorylation was strongly increased in adherent neurospheres, suggesting a post-translational regulation during differentiation. These results point to a major role of cell-to-cell communication and Cx43 during the differentiation of neural progenitor cells in vitro.

Dual functions for connexins: Cx43 regulates growth independently of gap junction formation

Connexins, the family of proteins that form vertebrate gap junctions, have key roles during development and in the adult. Previously, the physiological actions of connexins have been ascribed solely to formation of gap junction channels and thought to be mediated by the transfer of small molecules between neighboring cells. In conflict with this hypothesis here we demonstrate that Cx43 can affect cell growth independently of gap junction formation. This conclusion is based on four findings: (1) There is a lack of correlation between the action of Cx43 mutants Cx43-S255A, Cx43-S279A, and Cx43-S282A on growth and cell coupling in 3T3 A31 fibroblasts. (2) Blockade of gap junction formation, by either heptan-1-ol treatment or culturing cells at low density, had no effect on the ability of the Cx43 mutants to control growth. (3) Wildtype Cx43 inhibited growth of Neuro2a cells under conditions where gap junctions were unable to form. (4) The CT domain of Cx43, which lacks intrinsic gap junction activity, is as effective as the wildtype molecule in suppressing the growth of Neuro2a cells. These observations demonstrate that Cx43 has dual functions: first, its well-accepted role in forming a gap junction channel and, second, a direct action of the connexin protein on growth that is mediated via the cytoplasmic carboxyl domain.

c-Src and HSP72 interact in ATP-depleted renal epithelial cells

Disruption of cell contact sites during ischemia contributes to the loss of organ function in acute renal failure. Because prior heat stress protects cell contact sites in ATP-depleted renal epithelial cells in vitro, we hypothesized that heat shock protein 72 (HSP72), the major inducible cytoprotectant in mammalian cells, interacts with protein kinases that regulate cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. ATP depletion increased the content of Tyr(416) Src, the activated form of this kinase. c-Src activation was associated with an increase in the tyrosine phosphorylation state of beta-catenin, paxillin, and vinculin, three c-Src substrate proteins that localize to and regulate cell contact sites. Prior heat stress inhibited c-Src activation and decreased the degree of tyrosine phosphorylation of all three Src substrates during ATP depletion and/or early recovery. HSP72 coimmunoprecipitated with c-Src only in cells subjected to heat stress. ATP depletion markedly increased the interaction between HSP72 and c-Src, supporting the hypothesis that HSP72 regulates Src kinase activity. These results suggest that alterations in the tyrosine phosphorylation state of proteins located at the cell-cell and cell-matrix interface mediate, at least in part, the functional state of these structures during ATP depletion and may be modulated by interactions between HSP72 and c-Src.

Gap junction assembly: PTX-sensitive G proteins regulate the distribution of connexin43 within cells

Cells expressing connexin43 are able to upregulate gap junction (GJ) communication by enhancing the assembly of new GJs, apparently through increased connexin trafficking. Because G proteins are known to regulate different aspects of protein trafficking, we examined the effects of pertussis toxin (PTX; a specific inhibitor of certain G proteins) on GJ assembly. Dissociated Novikoff hepatoma cells were reaggregated for 60 min to form nascent junctions. PTX inhibited GJ assembly, as indicated by a reduction in dye transfer. Electron microscopy also revealed a 60% decrease in the number of GJ channels per cell interface. Importantly, PTX blocked the twofold enhancement in GJ assembly found in the presence of low-density lipoprotein. Two G(i alpha) proteins (G(i alpha 2) and G(i alpha 3)), which have been implicated in the control of membrane trafficking, reacted with PTX in ADP-ribosylation studies. PTX and/or the trafficking inhibitors, brefeldin A and monensin, inhibited GJ assembly to comparable degrees. In addition, assays for GJ hemichannels demonstrated reduced plasma membrane levels of connexin43 following PTX treatment. These results suggest that PTX-sensitive G proteins regulate connexin43 trafficking, and, as a result of inhibition with PTX, the number of plasma membrane hemichannels available for GJ assembly is reduced.

Gap junction protein connexin-43 interacts directly with microtubules

Gap junctions are specialized cell-cell junctions that mediate intercellular communication. They are composed of connexin proteins, which form transmembrane channels for small molecules [1, 2]. The C-terminal tail of connexin-43 (Cx43), the most widely expressed connexin member, has been implicated in the regulation of Cx43 channel gating by growth factors [3-5]. The Cx43 tail contains various protein interaction sites, but little is known about binding partners. To identify Cx43-interacting proteins, we performed pull-down experiments using the C-terminal tail of Cx43 fused to glutathione-S-transferase. We find that the Cx43 tail binds directly to tubulin and, like full-length Cx43, sediments with microtubules. Tubulin binding to Cx43 is specific in that it is not observed with three other connexins. We established that a 35-amino acid juxtamembrane region in the Cx43 tail, which contains a presumptive tubulin binding motif, is necessary and sufficient for microtubule binding. Immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy studies reveal that microtubules extend to Cx43-based gap junctions in contacted cells. However, intact microtubules are dispensable for the regulation of Cx43 gap-junctional communication. Our findings suggest that, in addition to its well-established role as a channel-forming protein, Cx43 can anchor microtubule distal ends to gap junctions and thereby might influence the properties of microtubules in contacted cells.

Regulation of gap junctional communication by a pro-inflammatory cytokine in cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator-expressing but not cystic fibrosis airway cells

Airway inflammation is orchestrated by cell-cell interactions involving soluble mediators and cell adhesion molecules. Alterations in the coordination of the multicellular process of inflammation may play a major role in the chronic lung disease state of cystic fibrosis (CF). The aim of this study was to determine whether direct cell-cell interactions via gap junctional communication is affected during the inflammatory response of the airway epithelium. We have examined the strength of intercellular communication and the activation of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) in normal (non-CF) and CF human airway cell lines stimulated with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). TNF-alpha induced maximal translocation of NF-kappaB into the nucleus of non-CF as well as CF airway cells within 20 minutes. In non-CF cells, TNF-alpha progressively decreased the extent of intercellular communication. In contrast, gap junctional communication between CF cells exposed to TNF-alpha remained unaltered. CF results from mutations of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. Interestingly, transfer of wild-type CFTR into CF cells by adenovirus-mediated infection was associated with the recovery of TNF-alpha-induced uncoupling. These results suggest that expression of functional CFTR is necessary for regulation of gap junctional communication by TNF-alpha. Gap junction channels close during the inflammatory response, therefore limiting the intercellular diffusion of signaling molecules, and thereby the recruitment of neighboring cells. Defects in this mechanism may contribute to the excessive inflammatory response of CF airway epithelium.

Adenosine 5'-triphosphate: a P2-purinergic agonist in the myocardium

ATP, besides an intracellular energy source, is an agonist when applied to a variety of different cells including cardiomyocytes. Sources of ATP in the extracellular milieu are multiple. Extracellular ATP is rapidly degraded by ectonucleotidases. Today ionotropic P2X(1--7) receptors and metabotropic P2Y(1,2,4,6,11) receptors have been cloned and their mRNA found in cardiomyocytes. On a single cardiomyocyte, micromolar ATP induces nonspecific cationic and Cl(-) currents that depolarize the cells. ATP both increases directly via a G(s) protein and decreases Ca(2+) current. ATP activates the inward-rectifying currents (ACh- and ATP-activated K(+) currents) and outward K(+) currents. P2-purinergic stimulation increases cAMP by activating adenylyl cyclase isoform V. It also involves tyrosine kinases to activate phospholipase C-gamma to produce inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchange to induce a large transient acidosis. No clear correlation is presently possible between an effect and the activation of a given P2-receptor subtype in cardiomyocytes. ATP itself is generally a positive inotropic agent. Upon rapid application to cells, ATP induces various forms of arrhythmia. At the tissue level, arrhythmia could be due to slowing of electrical spread after both Na(+) current decrease and cell-to-cell uncoupling as well as cell depolarization and Ca(2+) current increase. In as much as the information is available, this review also reports analog effects of UTP and diadenosine polyphosphates.

Interaction of c-Src with gap junction protein connexin-43. Role in the regulation of cell-cell communication

Cell-cell communication via connexin-43 (Cx43)-based gap junctions is transiently inhibited by certain mitogens, but the underlying regulatory mechanisms are incompletely understood. Our previous studies have implicated the c-Src tyrosine kinase in mediating transient closure of Cx43-based gap junctions in normal fibroblasts. Here we show that activated c-Src (c-SrcK(+)) phosphorylates the COOH-terminal tail of Cx43, both in vitro and in intact cells. Coimmunoprecipitation experiments reveal that Cx43 associates with c-SrcK(+) and, to a lesser extent, with wild-type c-Src, but not with kinase-dead c-Src. Mutation of residue Cx43 Tyr(265) (Cx43-Y265F mutant) abolishes both tyrosine phosphorylation of Cx43 and its coprecipitation with c-Src. Expression of c-SrcK(+) in Rat-1 cells disrupts gap junctional communication. Strikingly, the communication-defective phenotype is bypassed after coexpression of the Cx43-Y265F mutant or a COOH-terminally truncated version of Cx43 (Cx43Delta263) that lacks residue Tyr(265). Our results support a model in which activated c-Src phosphorylates the COOH-terminal tail of Cx43 on residue Tyr(265), resulting in a stable interaction between both proteins leading to inhibition of gap junctional communication.

VEGF transiently disrupts gap junctional communication in endothelial cells

Vascular endothelial growth factor, VEGF, stimulates angiogenesis by directly acting on endothelial cells. The effects of VEGF are mediated by two tyrosine kinase receptors, VEGFR-1 (Flt-1) and VEGFR-2 (Flk-1/KDR) that are highly related to receptors of the platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor family. We are interested in early signalling events downstream from VEGF receptors that affect blood vessel homeostasis. Endothelial cells form multiple types of cell-cell junctions that are required for cellular organization into complex networks. These junctions also regulate communication among adjacent cells. Stimulation by various growth factors such as epidermal growth factor (EGF) or PDGF has been shown to disrupt cell-cell junctions, consequently affecting cell-to-cell communication. We investigated gap junctional communication (GJC) by monitoring the transfer of a low molecular mass fluorescent tracer molecule between adjacent cells using immunofluorescence microscopy. VEGF maximally blocked GJC 15 minutes after growth factor administration. The cells resumed communication via gap junctions within 1–2 hours after treatment. This early effect of VEGF on communication correlated with changes in the phosphorylation state of one of the proteins involved in gap junction formation, connexin 43 (Cx43). The signalling mechanisms involved in this phenomenon depend on activation of VEGFR-2, impinge on a tyrosine kinase of the Src family and activate the Erk family of MAP kinases. The function of VEGF-mediated disruption of GJC might be to restrict an increase in endothelium permeability to the environment affected by local injury to blood vessels.

c-Src regulates the interaction between connexin-43 and ZO-1 in cardiac myocytes

Connexin-43 is known to interact directly with ZO-1 in cardiac myocytes, but little is known about the role of ZO-1 in connexin-43 function. In cardiac myocytes, constitutively active c-Src inhibited endogenous interaction between connexin-43 and ZO-1 by binding to connexin-43. In HEK293 cells, by contrast, a connexin-43 mutant lacking the Src phosphorylation site (Tyr265) interacted with ZO-1 despite cotransfection of a constitutively active c-Src. Moreover, in vitro binding assays using recombinant proteins synthesized from regions of connexin-43 and ZO-1 showed that the tyrosine-phosphorylated C terminus of connexin-43 interacts with the c-Src SH2 domain in parallel with the loss of its interaction with ZO-1. Cell surface biotinylation revealed that, by phosphorylating Tyr265, constitutively active c-Src reduces total and cell surface connexin-43 down to the levels seen in cells expressing a mutant connexin-43 lacking the ZO-1 binding domain. Finally, electrophysiological analysis showed that both the tyrosine phosphorylation site and the ZO-1-binding domain of connexin-43 were involved in the regulation of gap junctional function. We therefore conclude that c-Src regulates the interaction between connexin-43 and ZO-1 through tyrosine phosphorylation and through the binding of its SH2 domain to connexin-43.

Gap junction communication and connexin 43 gene expression in a rat granulosa cell line: regulation by follicle-stimulating hormone

Follicle-stimulating hormone is the major regulator of growth and development of antral follicles in the ovary. Granulosa cells (GCs) in these follicles are coupled via gap junctions (GJs) consisting of connexin 43 (Cx 43). Because we and others have found that Cx 43 and GJs, respectively, are more abundant in large antral follicles compared with small antral and preantral follicles, we hypothesized that FSH may control Cx 43 gene expression, GJ formation, and intercellular communication. To directly address these points, we chose a rat GC line (GFSHR-17) expressing the FSH receptor and the Cx 43 gene. The functionality of FSH receptors was shown by the effects of porcine FSH, namely cell rounding, reduced cellular proliferation, and stimulation of progesterone production of GFSHR-17 cells, which are effects that were detectable within hours. Treatment with FSH also statistically significantly increased Cx 43 mRNA levels, as shown after 6 to 9 h in Northern blots. These effects were antedated by altered GJ communication, which was observed within seconds. Using a single-cell/whole-cell patch clamp technique, we showed that FSH rapidly and reversibly enhanced electrical cell coupling of GFSHR-17 cells. Increased GJ communication was associated with statistically significantly decreased phosphorylation of Cx 43, which was observed within 10 min after FSH addition, during immunoprecipitation experiments. Our results demonstrate, to our knowledge for the first time, that the gonadotropin FSH acutely and directly stimulates intercellular communication of GFSHR-17 cells through existing GJs. Moreover, FSH also increases levels of Cx 43 mRNA. These changes are associated with reduced proliferation and enhanced differentiation of GFSHR-17 cells. In vivo factors in addition to FSH may be involved in the regulation of GJ/GJ communication between GCs in the follicle, but our results suggest that improved cell-to-cell coupling, enhanced Cx 43 gene expression, and possibly, formation of new GJs are direct consequences of FSH receptor activation and may antedate and/or initiate the pivotal effects of FSH on GCs.

Regulation of Cx43 gap junctions: the gatekeeper and the password

Gap junctions are regulatable pores that connect the cytoplasms of neighboring cells. Hossain and Boynton focus on connexin 43 gap junctions and their regulation by changing the phosphorylation status of the COOH-terminal domain of connexin 43 or by altering protein-protein interactions in this region. The COOH-terminal domain of connexin 43 appears to be a key player in regulating gap junctional communication (GJC) because many divergent signals in many different cell types modify this domain to inhibit GJC.

Src tyrosine kinase is a novel direct effector of G proteins

Heterotrimeric G proteins transduce signals from cell surface receptors to modulate the activity of cellular effectors. Src, the product of the first characterized proto-oncogene and the first identified protein tyrosine kinase, plays a critical role in the signal transduction of G protein-coupled receptors. However, the mechanism of biochemical regulation of Src by G proteins is not known. Here we demonstrate that Galphas and Galphai, but neither Galphaq, Galpha12 nor Gbetay, directly stimulate the kinase activity of downregulated c-Src. Galphas and Galphai similarly modulate Hck, another member of Src-family tyrosine kinases. Galphas and Galphai bind to the catalytic domain and change the conformation of Src, leading to increased accessibility of the active site to substrates. These data demonstrate that the Src family tyrosine kinases are direct effectors of G proteins.

PDGF regulates gap junction communication and connexin43 phosphorylation by PI 3-kinase in mesangial cells

BACKGROUND

Gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) plays an important role in the regulation of cell growth, migration, and differentiation. Ultrastructural and histochemical studies indicate the existence of a high density of gap junctions among mesangial cells (MCs), but little is known about their regulation. Because of the close link between growth and GJIC, we examined how platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) may affect GJIC in cultured MCs.

METHODS

MCs were exposed to PDGF in the presence or absence of phosphatidylinositol 3' kinase (PI3K) inhibitors, and GJIC was evaluated by the transfer of Lucifer yellow. The gap junction protein connexin43 (Cx43) was examined by immunohistochemistry, immunoprecipitation, and Western blot.

RESULTS

The addition of PDGF into MC culture caused a rapid and transient inhibition of GJIC, with maximal inhibition (80%) occurring 15 minutes after PDGF exposure and returning to control levels after 90 minutes. This action of PDGF could be largely prevented by pretreatment of MCs with the PI3K inhibitor LY294002. Immunochemical staining showed that PDGF did not alter the localization and distribution of Cx43. Immunoprecipitation studies demonstrated that PDGF induced a rapid and transient increase of tyrosine phosphorylation of Cx43 protein, which was dose dependent and in accordance with the time course of the disruption of GJIC. PDGF also elicited activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Using two structurally unrelated PI3K inhibitors, wortmanin and LY294002, both tyrosine phosphorylation of Cx43 and activation of ERK stimulated by PDGF were largely blocked.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that PDGF abrogates GJIC function in MCs via the PI3K-dependent signaling pathway. Disruption of GJIC by PDGF could be one mechanism by which PDGF modulates MC behavior. Participation of PI3K in the regulation of GJIC demonstrates the complex coordination of molecular events that accompany MC mitogenesis.

Human hemangiosarcomas have a common polymorphism but no mutations in the connexin37 gene

Gap junctional intercellular communication is often impaired in cancers, and the genes which encode the connexin gap junction proteins are considered to be tumor-suppressor genes. In this study, we analyzed the presence of mutations in the connexin 37 (Cx37) gene in 22 human hepatic angiosarcomas, 6 and 4 of which were associated with exposure to vinyl chloride and Thorotrast, respectively. The other 12 samples were from patients with no history of exposure to these 2 agents. In 9 samples, a proline (ACC) to serine (ACT) amino acid change in codon 319 was detected. However, DNA from non-tumorigenic tissue of the same patients also showed this amino acid change, suggesting that this is a polymorphism rather than a mutation. Subsequent analysis of 84 DNA samples from normal donors revealed the frequencies of Pro/Pro, Pro/Ser and Ser/Ser alleles to be 65.5%, 23.8% and 10.7%, respectively, while among the group of angiosarcoma patients the corresponding figures were 59.1%, 31.8% and 9. 1%, respectively. Thus, there was no correlation between the polymorphism at codon 319 and hepatic angiosarcoma occurrence. However, among the 6 cases of vinyl chloride-associated angiosarcoma, the percentages of the polymorphic alleles were 33.3%, 66.7% and 0%, respectively. While the number of samples was too small to allow us to conclude that the Ser319 allele in Cx37 predisposes to this rare type of human cancer, it may be noted that codon 319 is located at the cytoplasmic tail of Cx37, where most regulatory sequences reside, and that it could be a site of phosphorylation for some protein kinases, which may in turn affect the function of Cx37, including intercellular communication.

Dynamic connexin43 expression and gap junctional communication during endoderm differentiation of F9 embryonal carcinoma cells

Gap junctional communication permits the direct intercellular exchange of small molecules and ions. In vertebrates, gap junctions are formed by the conjunction of two connexons, each consisting of a hexamer of connexin proteins, and are either established or degraded depending on the nature of the tissue formed. Gap junction function has been implicated in both directing developmental cell fate decisions and in tissue homeostasis/metabolite exchange. In mouse development, formation of the extra embryonal parietal endoderm from visceral endoderm is the first epithelial-mesenchyme transition to occur. This transition can be mimicked in vitro, by F9 embryonal carcinoma (EC) cells treated with retinoic acid, to form (epithelial) primitive or visceral endoderm, and then with parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP) to induce the transition to (mesenchymal) parietal endoderm. Here, we demonstrate that connexin43 mRNA and protein expression levels, protein phosphorylation and subcellular localization are dynamically regulated during F9 EC cell differentiation. Dye injection showed that this complex regulation of connexin43 is correlated with functional gap junctional communication. Similar patterns of connexin43 expression, localization and communication were found in visceral and parietal endoderm isolated ex vivo from mouse embryos at day 8.5 of gestation. However, in F9 cells this tightly regulated gap junctional communication does not appear to be required for the differentiation process as such.

Development of our current understanding of bioactive lysophospholipids

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) serves as the prototypic lysophospholipid mediator that acts through G-protein-coupled receptors to evoke a host of responses in numerous target cells. The hormone- and growth-factor-like activities of LPA, mediated by distinct G proteins, were discovered about 10 years ago. Since then, considerable progress has been made in our understanding of LPA receptor signaling, culminating in the recent identification of a growing family of heptahelical receptors specific for LPA and the structurally related lysolipid, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P). In addition to stimulating Gi-Ras-mediated cell proliferation, LPA and S1P induce rapid G alpha 12/13-RhoA-mediated cytoskeletal changes underlying such diverse responses as neurite retraction, cell rounding, and enhanced tumor cell invasiveness. LPA also triggers inhibition of gap-junctional communication. This overview focuses on how our understanding of LPA as an intercellular lipid mediator has developed during the last decade.

Inhibition of endothelial cell migration, intercellular communication, and vascular tube formation by thromboxane A(2)

The eicosanoid thromboxane A(2) (TXA(2)) is released by activated platelets, monocytes, and the vessel wall and interacts with high affinity receptors expressed in several tissues including endothelium. Whether TXA(2) might alter endothelial migration and tube formation, two determinants of angiogenesis, is unknown. Thus, we investigated the effect of the TXA(2) mimetic [1S-(1alpha, 2beta(5Z),3alpha(1E,3R), 4alpha]-7-[3-(3-hydroxy-4-(4'-iodophenoxy)-1-butenyl)-7-o xab icyclo- [2.2.1]heptan-2-yl]-5'-heptenoic acid (IBOP) on human endothelial cell (HEC) migration and angiogenesis in vitro. IBOP stimulation inhibited HEC migration by 50% and in vitro capillary formation by 75%. These effects of IBOP were time- and concentration-dependent with an IC(50) of 25 nM. IBOP did not affect integrin expression or cytoskeletal morphology of HEC. Since gap junction-mediated intercellular communication increases in migrating HEC, we determined whether IBOP might inhibit coupling or connexin expression in HEC. IBOP reduced the passage of microinjected dyes between HEC by 50%, and the effects of IBOP on migration and tube formation were mimicked by the gap junction inhibitor 18beta-glycyrrhetinic acid (1 microM) with a similar time course and efficacy. IBOP (24 h) did not affect the expression or phosphorylation of connexin 43 in whole HEC lysates. Immunohistologic examination of HEC suggested that IBOP may impair functional coupling by altering the cellular distribution of gap junctions, leading to increased connexin 43 internalization. Thus, this finding that TXA(2) mimetics can prevent HEC migration and tube formation, possibly by impairing intercellular communication, suggests that antagonizing TXA(2) signaling might enhance vascularization of ischemic tissue.

Mitogen-activated protein kinase and phosphorylation of connexin43 are not sufficient for the disruption of gap junctional communication by platelet-derived growth factor and tetradecanoylphorbol acetate

Disruption of gap junctional communication (GJC) by various compounds, including growth factors and tumor promoters, is believed to be modulated by the phosphorylation of a gap junctional protein, connexin43 (Cx43). We have previously demonstrated a platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-induced blockade of GJC and phosphorylation of Cx43 in T51B rat liver epithelial cells expressing wild-type PDGF receptor beta (PDGFr beta). Both of these actions of PDGF required participation of protein kinase C (PKC) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). Similar requirements of MAPK were suggested in the modulation of GJC by other agents, including epidermal growth factor (EGF) and lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). Since many of these agents activate additional protein kinases, our present study examined whether activation of MAPK was sufficient for Cx43 phosphorylation and GJC blockade. By utilizing a variety of MAPK activators, we now show that activation of MAPK is not always associated with either Cx43 phosphorylation or disruption of GJC, which suggests a requirement for additional factors. Furthermore, pretreatment with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a potent MAPK activator but inefficient GJC/Cx43 modulator, abrogated PDGF- or TPA-induced disruption of GJC. While a 5 min H2O2 pretreatment abolished both PDGF- and TPA-induced Cx43 phosphorylation and GJC blockade, a simultaneous H2O2 treatment interfered only with GJC closure but not with the phosphorylation of Cx43 induced by PDGF and TPA. This finding indicates that, in addition to the Cx43 phosphorylation step, inhibition of GJC requires interaction with other components. H2O2-mediated abrogation of PDGF/TPA signaling can be neutralized by the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) or by the tyrosine kinase inhibitor genistein. Taken together, our results suggest that disruption of GJC is not solely mediated by either activated MAPK or Cx43 phosphorylation but requires the participation of additional kinases and regulatory components. This complex mode of regulation is perhaps essential for the proposed functional role of GJC.

Dissection of the molecular basis of pp60(v-src) induced gating of connexin 43 gap junction channels

Suppression of gap-junctional communication by various protein kinases, growth factors, and oncogenes frequently correlates with enhanced mitogenesis. The oncogene v-src appears to cause acute closure of gap junction channels. Tyr265 in the COOH-terminal tail of connexin 43 (Cx43) has been implicated as a potential target of v-src, although v-src action has also been associated with changes in serine phosphorylation. We have investigated the mechanism of this acute regulation through mutagenesis of Cx43 expressed in Xenopus laevis oocyte pairs. Truncations of the COOH-terminal domain led to an almost complete loss of response of Cx43 to v-src, but this was restored by coexpression of the independent COOH-terminal polypeptide. This suggests a ball and chain gating mechanism, similar to the mechanism proposed for pH gating of Cx43, and K+ channel inactivation. Surprisingly, we found that v-src mediated gating of Cx43 did not require the tyrosine site, but did seem to depend on the presence of two potential SH3 binding domains and the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase phosphorylation sites within them. Further point mutagenesis and pharmacological studies in normal rat kidney (NRK) cells implicated MAP kinase in the gating response to v-src, while the stable binding of v-src to Cx43 (in part mediated by SH3 domains) did not correlate with its ability to mediate channel closure. This suggests a common link between closure of gap junctions by v-src and other mitogens, such as EGF and lysophosphatidic acid (LPA).

Inhibition of the production of endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor by cannabinoid receptor agonists

1. The endogenous cannabinoid, anandamide, has been reported to induce an 'endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF)-like' relaxation in vitro. We therefore investigated the effects of cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonists; HU 210, delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta9-THC) and anandamide, and a CB1 antagonist/inverse agonist, SR 141716A, on nitric oxide (NO) and EDHF-mediated relaxation in precontracted rings of porcine coronary, rabbit carotid and mesenteric arteries. 2. In rings of mesenteric artery HU 210 and delta9-THC induced endothelium- and cyclo-oxygenase-independent relaxations which were sensitive to SR 141716A. Anandamide (0.03-30 microM) induced a slowly developing, endothelium-independent relaxation which was abolished by diclofenac and was therefore mediated by cyclo-oxygenase product(s). None of the CB1 agonists tested affected the tone of precontracted rings of rabbit carotid or porcine coronary artery. 3. In endothelium-intact segments, HU 210, delta9-THC and anandamide did not affect NO-mediated responses but under conditions of continuous NO synthase/cyclo-oxygenase blockade, significantly inhibited acetylcholine and bradykinin-induced relaxations which are attributed to the production of EDHF. The effects of HU 210 and delta9-THC were not observed when experiments were performed in the presence of SR 141716A suggesting the involvement of the CB1 receptor. 4. In a patch clamp bioassay of EDHF production, HU 210 decreased the EDHF-mediated hyperpolarization of detector smooth muscle cells when applied to the donor segment but was without effect on the membrane potential of detector cells. The inhibition of EDHF production was unrelated to alterations in Ca2+ -signalling or cytochrome P450 activity. 5. These results suggest that the activation of endothelial CB1 receptors appears to be negatively coupled to the production of EDHF.

Nitric oxide-independent relaxations to acetylcholine and A23187 involve different routes of heterocellular communication. Role of Gap junctions and phospholipase A2

NO- and prostanoid-independent relaxations are generally assumed to be mediated by an endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) that has been postulated to be an arachidonic acid metabolite. Recent evidence also suggests that direct heterocellular gap junctional communication (GJC) between endothelium and smooth muscle contributes to NO-independent relaxations. In the present study we have investigated the contribution of phospholipase A2 (PLA2)-linked metabolites and GJC to EDHF-type relaxations in rabbit mesenteric artery. In isolated rings preconstricted with 10 micromol/L phenylephrine in the presence of NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) and indomethacin, acetylcholine (ACh) and the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 evoked relaxations that were markedly attenuated by the Ca2+-dependent PLA2 inhibitors 2-(p-amylcinnamoyl)amino-4-chlorobenzoic acid (3 micromol/L) and arachidonyl trifluoromethyl ketone (3 micromol/L), but were potentiated by the sulfhydryl agent thimerosal (300 nmol/L). In intact rings, relaxations to ACh were attenuated synergistically by L-NAME and Gap 27 peptide, an inhibitor of GJC, whereas ACh-evoked relaxations of "sandwich" preparations were unaffected by the peptide but were abolished by L-NAME. In both ring and sandwich preparations A23187-induced relaxations were attenuated by inhibition of PLA2 but were insensitive to L-NAME and Gap 27 peptide. We conclude that EDHF-type relaxations of rabbit mesenteric artery to ACh and A23187 depend on a common pathway that involves activation of PLA2. In the case of ACh, relaxation requires transfer of a factor or factors from the endothelium to smooth muscle via gap junctions, whereas A23187 permits release directly into the extracellular space.

Suppression of human prostate cancer cell growth by forced expression of connexin genes

The cell-to-cell channels in gap junctions, formed of proteins called connexins (Cxs), provide a direct intercellular pathway for the passage of small signaling molecules (< or = 1 kD) between the cytoplasmic interiors of adjoining cells. It has been proposed that alteration in the expression and function of Cxs may be one of the genetic changes involved in the initiation of neoplasia. To elucidate the role of Cxs in the pathogenesis of human prostate cancer (PCA), the pattern of expression of Cx alpha 1 (Cx43) and Cx beta 1 (Cx32) was studied by immunocytochemical analysis in normal prostate and in prostate tumors of different histological grades. While normal prostate epithelial cells expressed only Cx beta 1, both Cx alpha 1 and Cx beta 1 were detected in PCA cells. The Cxs were localized at the cell-cell contact areas in normal prostate and well-differentiated prostate tumors; however, as prostate tumors progressed to more undifferentiated stages, the Cxs were localized in the cytoplasm, followed by an eventual loss in advanced stages. Thus, epithelial cells from prostate tumors showed subtle and gross alterations with regard to expression of Cx alpha 1 and Cx beta 1 and their assembly into gap junctions during the progression of PCA. Retroviral-mediated transfer of Cx alpha 1 and Cx beta 1 into a Cx-deficient human PCA cell line, LNCaP, inhibited growth, retarded tumorigenicity, and induced differentiation, and these effects were contingent upon the formation of gap junctions. In addition, the capacity to form gap junctions in most Cx-transduced LNCaP cells was lost upon serial passage. Taken together, these findings indicate that the control of proliferation and differentiation of epithelial cells in prostate tumors may depend on the appropriate assembly of Cx beta 1 and Cx alpha 1 into gap junctions and that the development of PCA may involve the positive selection of cells with an impaired ability to form gap junctions.

The gap junction protein connexin43 interacts with the second PDZ domain of the zona occludens-1 protein

Gap junctions mediate cell-cell communication in almost all tissues and are composed of channel-forming integral membrane proteins, termed connexins [1-3]. Connexin43 (Cx43) is the most widely expressed and the most well-studied member of this family. Cx43-based cell-cell communication is regulated by growth factors and oncogenes [3-5], although the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood as cellular proteins that interact with connexins have yet to be identified. The carboxy-terminal cytosolic domain of Cx43 contains several phosphorylation sites and potential signalling motifs. We have used a yeast two-hybrid protein interaction screen to identify proteins that bind to the carboxy-terminal tail of Cx43 and thereby isolated the zona occludens-1 (ZO-1) protein. ZO-1 is a 220 kDa peripheral membrane protein containing multiple protein interaction domains including three PDZ domains and a Src homology 3 (SH3) domain [6-9]. The interaction of Cx43 with ZO-1 occurred through the extreme carboxyl terminus of Cx43 and the second PDZ domain of ZO-1. Cx43 associated with ZO-1 in Cx43-transfected COS7 cells, as well as endogenously in normal Rat-1 fibroblasts and mink lung epithelial cells. Confocal microscopy revealed that endogenous Cx43 and ZO-1 colocalised at gap junctions. We suggest that ZO-1 serves to recruit signalling proteins into Cx43-based gap junctions.