Mammalian transglutaminases. Identification of substrates as a key to physiological function and physiopathological relevance

Do MHCII-presented neoantigens drive type 1 diabetes and other autoimmune diseases?

The strong association between particular MHCII alleles and type 1 diabetes is not fully understood. Two ideas that have been considered for many years are that autoimmunity is driven by (1) low-affinity CD4(+) T cells that escape thymic negative selection and respond to certain autoantigen peptides that are particularly well presented by particular MHCII molecules, or (2) CD4(+) T cells responding to neoantigens that are absent in the thymus, but uniquely created in the target tissue in the periphery and presented by particular MHCII alleles. Here we discuss the recent structural data in favor of the second idea. We review studies suggesting that peptide antigens recognized by autoimmune T cells are uniquely proteolytically processed and/or posttranslationally modified in the target tissue, thus allowing these T cells to escape deletion in the thymus during T-cell development. We postulate that an encounter with these tissue-specific neoantigenic peptides presented by the particular susceptible MHCII alleles in the peripheral tissues when accompanied by the appropriate inflammatory milieu activates these T-cell escapees leading to the onset of autoimmune disease.

Integrative proteomic profiling of protein activity and interactions using protein arrays

Proteomic studies based on abundance, activity, or interactions have been used to investigate protein functions in normal and pathological processes, but their combinatory approach has not been attempted. We present an integrative proteomic profiling method to measure protein activity and interaction using fluorescence-based protein arrays. We used an on-chip assay to simultaneously monitor the transamidating activity and binding affinity of transglutaminase 2 (TG2) for 16 TG2-related proteins. The results of this assay were compared with confidential scores provided by the STRING database to analyze the functional interactions of TG2 with these proteins. We further created a quantitative activity-interaction map of TG2 with these 16 proteins, categorizing them into seven groups based upon TG2 activity and interaction. This integrative proteomic profiling method can be applied to quantitative validation of previously known protein interactions, and in understanding the functions and regulation of target proteins in biological processes of interest.

RhoB is associated with the anti-angiogenic effects of celiac patient transglutaminase 2-targeted autoantibodies

Celiac patient-derived anti-transglutaminase 2 (TG2) antibodies disturb several steps in angiogenesis, but the detailed molecular basis is not known. Therefore, we here analyzed by microarray technology the expression of a set of genes related to angiogenesis and endothelial cell biology in order to identify factors that could explain our previous data related to vascular biology in the context of celiac disease. To this end, in vitro models using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) or in vivo models of angiogenesis were used. A total of 116 genes were analyzed after treatment with celiac patient autoantibodies against TG2. Compared to treatment with control IgA celiac patient, total IgA induced a consistent expression change of 10 genes, the up-regulation of four and down-regulation of six. Of these genes the up-regulated RhoB was selected for further studies. RhoB expression was found to be up-regulated at both messenger RNA and protein level in response to celiac patient total IgA as well as anti-TG2-specific antibody derived from a celiac patient. Interestingly, down-regulation of RhoB by specific small interfering RNA treatment in endothelial cells could rescue the deranged endothelial length and tubule formation caused by celiac disease autoantibodies. RhoB function is controlled by its post-translational modification by farnesylation. This modification of RhoB required for its correct function can be prevented by the cholesterol lowering drug simvastatin, which was also able to abolish the anti-angiogenic effects of celiac anti-TG2 autoantibodies. Taken together, our results would suggest that RhoB plays a key role in the response of endothelial cells to celiac disease-specific anti-TG2 autoantibodies.

Cellular functions of tissue transglutaminase

Transglutaminase 2 (TG2 or tissue transglutaminase) is a highly complex multifunctional protein that acts as transglutaminase, GTPase/ATPase, protein disulfide isomerase, and protein kinase. Moreover, TG2 has many well-documented nonenzymatic functions that are based on its noncovalent interactions with multiple cellular proteins. A vast array of biochemical activities of TG2 accounts for its involvement in a variety of cellular processes, including adhesion, migration, growth, survival, apoptosis, differentiation, and extracellular matrix organization. In turn, the impact of TG2 on these processes implicates this protein in various physiological responses and pathological states, contributing to wound healing, inflammation, autoimmunity, neurodegeneration, vascular remodeling, tumor growth and metastasis, and tissue fibrosis. TG2 is ubiquitously expressed and is particularly abundant in endothelial cells, fibroblasts, osteoblasts, monocytes/macrophages, and smooth muscle cells. The protein is localized in multiple cellular compartments, including the nucleus, cytosol, mitochondria, endolysosomes, plasma membrane, and cell surface and extracellular matrix, where Ca(2+), nucleotides, nitric oxide, reactive oxygen species, membrane lipids, and distinct protein-protein interactions in the local microenvironment jointly regulate its activities. In this review, we discuss the complex biochemical activities and molecular interactions of TG2 in the context of diverse subcellular compartments and evaluate its wide ranging and cell type-specific biological functions and their regulation.

Knocking-in the R142C mutation in transglutaminase 1 disrupts the stratum corneum barrier and postnatal survival of mice

BACKGROUND

Mutations in the gene encoding transglutaminase 1 (TG1) are responsible for various types of autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis (ARCI), such as lamellar ichthyosis (LI), congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma (CIE) and some minor variants of ARCI. A point mutation of R143C in the β-sandwich domain of TG1 has been often identified in patients with LI or CIE.

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate the effect of that point mutation on skin barrier structures and functions, we generated mice with a point mutation of R142C, which corresponds to the R143C mutation in human TG1.

METHODS

A mouse line with the R142C point mutation in TG1 was established using a gene targeting technique and the Cre-loxP system. The skin phenotypes were analyzed in homozygous mutant Tgm1(R142C/R142C) mice.

RESULTS

In the skin of Tgm1(R142C/R142C) mice, expression of the mutant transcripts was comparable with wild-type or Tgm1(+/R142C) mice. However, the amount of mutated protein in the skin was markedly decreased in Tgm1(R142C/R142C) mice, and the TG1 activity of Tgm1(R142C/R142C) keratinocytes was almost lost. Tgm1(R142C/R142C) mice exhibited morphological and functional skin barrier defects and neonatal lethality. The stratum corneum of those mice lacked cornified envelopes, and loricrin, the major structural component, failed to assemble at the corneocyte cell periphery. Tgm1(R142C/R142C) mice showed a marked increase in transepidermal water loss and their skin was easily permeable to toluidine blue dye. The intercellular lipid lamellar structures of the stratum corneum were irregular and the 13-nm periodic X-ray diffractions from the stratum corneum lipid molecules were lost in vivo.

CONCLUSION

From these results, we suggest that the R142C mutation of TG1 reduces the enzyme stability which is indispensable for development of the stratum corneum and skin barrier function and for postnatal survival of mice.

Detection of transglutaminase activity using click chemistry

Transglutaminase 2 (TG2) is a Ca²⁺-dependent enzyme able to catalyze the formation of ε(γ-glutamyl)-lysine crosslinks between polypeptides, resulting in high molecular mass multimers. We have developed a bioorthogonal chemical method for the labeling of TG2 glutamine-donor proteins. As amine-donor substrates we used a set of azide- and alkyne-containing primary alkylamines that allow, after being crosslinked to glutamine-donor proteins, specific labeling of these proteins via the azide-alkyne cycloaddition. We demonstrate that these azide- and alkyne-functionalized TG2 substrates are cell permeable and suitable for specific labeling of TG2 glutamine-donor substrates in HeLa and Movas cells. Both the Cu(I)-catalyzed and strain promoted azide-alkyne cycloaddition proved applicable for subsequent derivatization of the TG2 substrate proteins with the desired probe. This new method for labeling TG2 substrate proteins introduces flexibility in the detection and/or purification of crosslinked proteins, allowing differential labeling of cellular proteins.

The side chain of glutamine 13 is the acyl-donor amino acid modified by type 2 transglutaminase in subunit T of the native rabbit skeletal muscle troponin complex

Subunit T of the native muscle troponin complex is a recognised substrate of transglutaminase both in vitro and in situ with formation of isopeptide bonds. Using a proteomic approach, we have now determined the precise site of in vitro labelling of the protein. A preparation of troponin purified from ether powder from mixed rabbit skeletal muscles was employed as transglutaminase substrate. The only isoform TnT2F present in our preparation was recognised as acyl-substrate by human type 2 transglutaminase which specifically modified glutamine 13 in the N-terminal region. During the reaction, the troponin protein complex was polymerized. Results are discussed in relation to the structure of the troponin T subunit, in the light of the role of troponins in skeletal and cardiac muscle diseases, and to the rules governing glutamine side chain selection by tissue transglutaminase.

Reactivity of the N-terminal region of fibronectin protein to transglutaminase 2 and factor XIIIA

Transglutaminase 2 (TG2) is secreted by a non-classical pathway into the extracellular space, where it has several activities pertinent to fibronectin (FN), including binding to the gelatin-binding domain of FN and acting as an integrin co-receptor. Glutamines in the N-terminal tail of FN are known to be susceptible to transamidation by both TG2 and activated blood coagulation factor XIII (FXIIIa). We used immunoblotting, limited proteolysis, and mass spectrometry to localize glutamines within FN that are subject to TG2-catalyzed incorporation of dansylcadaverine in comparison to residues modified by FXIIIa. Such analysis of plasma FN indicated that Gln-3, Gln-7, and Gln-9 in the N-terminal tail and Gln-246 of the linker between fifth and sixth type I modules ((5)F1 and (6)F1) are transamidated by both enzymes. Only minor incorporation of dansylcadaverine was detected elsewhere. Labeling of C-terminally truncated FN constructs revealed efficient TG2- or FXIIIa-catalyzed dansylcadaverine incorporation into the N-terminal residues of constructs as small as the 29-kDa fragment that includes (1-5)F1 and lacks modules from the adjacent gelatin-binding domain. However, when only (1-3)F1 were present, dansylcadaverine incorporation into the N-terminal residues of FN was lost and instead was in the enzymes, near the active site of TG2 and terminal domains of FXIIIa. Thus, these results demonstrate that FXIIIa and TG2 act similarly on glutamines at either end of (1-5)F1 and transamidation specificity of both enzymes is achieved through interactions with the intact 29K fragment.

Targeted overexpression of Drosophila transglutaminase-B induced characteristic phenotypes in a manner similar to transglutaminase-a

The Drosophila transglutaminase gene (CG7356) encodes two transglutaminases, dTG-A and dTG-B. To understand the roles of dTG-B during the development of the fly, we examined phenotypes induced through ectopic expression of dTG-B. Overexpression of dTG-B induced rough eye and extra wing crossvein phenotypes. These phenotypes were similar to those observed in the case of targeted overexpression of dTG-A.

Secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) is, like its homologue trappin-2 (pre-elafin), a transglutaminase substrate

Human lungs contain secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI), elafin and its biologically active precursor trappin-2 (pre-elafin). These important low-molecular weight inhibitors are involved in controlling the potentially deleterious proteolytic activities of neutrophil serine proteases including elastase, proteinase 3 and cathepsin G. We have shown previously that trappin-2, and to a lesser extent, elafin can be linked covalently to various extracellular matrix proteins by tissue transglutaminases and remain potent protease inhibitors. SLPI is composed of two distinct domains, each of which is about 40% identical to elafin, but it lacks consensus transglutaminase sequence(s), unlike trappin-2 and elafin. We investigated the actions of type 2 tissue transglutaminase and plasma transglutaminase activated factor XIII on SLPI. It was readily covalently bound to fibronectin or elastin by both transglutaminases but did not compete with trappin-2 cross-linking. Cross-linked SLPI still inhibited its target proteases, elastase and cathepsin G. We have also identified the transglutamination sites within SLPI, elafin and trappin-2 by mass spectrometry analysis of tryptic digests of inhibitors cross-linked to mono-dansyl cadaverin or to a fibronectin-derived glutamine-rich peptide. Most of the reactive lysine and glutamine residues in SLPI are located in its first N-terminal elafin-like domain, while in trappin-2, they are located in both the N-terminal cementoin domain and the elafin moiety. We have also demonstrated that the transglutamination substrate status of the cementoin domain of trappin-2 can be transferred from one protein to another, suggesting that it may provide transglutaminase-dependent attachment properties for engineered proteins. We have thus added to the corpus of knowledge on the biology of these potential therapeutic inhibitors of airway proteases.

Induction of cross-linking and silencing of Sp1 by transglutaminase during liver injury in ASH and NASH via different ER stress pathways

Alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) share many histological similarities, but the molecular mechanisms responsible for hepatic apoptosis remain unclear. We previously reported that transglutaminase 2 (TG2), a protein cross-linking enzyme, is induced in the nucleus of ethanol-treated hepatocytes, and cross-links and inactivates a general transcription factor Sp1, which eventually leads to reduced expression of c-Met and caspase-independent hepatic apoptosis [Tatsukawa et al., Gastroenterology 2009;136:1783-1795]. In this study, we investigated if a similar change might be observed also in NASH and if yes how TG2 and cross-linked Sp1 (CLSp1) would be induced in NASH and ASH. We obtained elevated nuclear TG2 and CLSp1 formation in NASH patients, as well as in HepG2 cells treated with free fatty acids (FFAs). Biochemical analyses on this culture model revealed that both ethanol and FFAs provoked fat accumulation, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, increased nuclear factor-κB (NFκB) and nuclear TG2, but the synergistic effect was not obvious between FFA and ethanol. Salubrinal, a selective inhibitor against dephosphorylation of eukaryotic initiation factor-2α in ER stress-induced pancreatic ER kinase (PERK) signal pathway, inhibited NFκB activation, nuclear TG2 expression and apoptosis only induced by FFAs, but not those induced by ethanol, while retinoid antagonist blocks ethanol induction of NFκB and TG2. These results suggest that FFA and ethanol may increase ER stress and lead to nuclear NFκB activation and TG2 induction through respectively distinctive pathways, leading to TG2-mediated apoptosis via cross-linking and inactivation of Sp1 and reduction in c-Met.

Interactions of natural polyamines with mammalian proteins

The ubiquitously expressed natural polyamines putrescine, spermidine, and spermine are small, flexible cationic compounds that exert pleiotropic actions on various regulatory systems and, accordingly, are essentially involved in diverse life functions. These roles of polyamines result from their capability to interact with negatively charged regions of all major classes of biomolecules, which might act in response by changing their structures and functions. The present review deals with polyamine-protein interactions, thereby focusing on mammalian proteins. We discuss the various modes in which polyamines can interact with proteins, describe major types of affected functions illustrated by representative examples of involved proteins, and support information with respective structural evidence from elucidated three-dimensional structures. A specific focus is put on polyamine interactions at protein surfaces that can modulate the aggregation of proteins to organized structural networks as well as to toxic aggregates and, moreover, can play a role in important transient protein-protein interactions.

Osteopontin undergoes polymerization in vivo and gains chemotactic activity for neutrophils mediated by integrin alpha9beta1

Osteopontin (OPN) is an integrin-binding inflammatory cytokine that undergoes polymerization catalyzed by transglutaminase 2. We have previously reported that polymeric OPN (polyOPN), but not unpolymerized OPN (OPN*), attracts neutrophils in vitro by presenting an acquired binding site for integrin α9β1. Among many in vitro substrates for transglutaminase 2, only a few have evidence for in vivo polymerization and concomitant function. Although polyOPN has been identified in bone and aorta, the in vivo functional significance of polyOPN is unknown. To determine whether OPN polymerization contributes to neutrophil recruitment in vivo, we injected OPN* into the peritoneal space of mice. Polymeric OPN was detected by immunoblotting in the peritoneal wash of mice injected with OPN*, and both intraperitoneal and plasma OPN* levels were higher in mice injected with a polymerization-incompetent mutant, confirming that OPN* polymerizes in vivo. OPN* injection induced neutrophil accumulation, which was significantly less following injection of a mutant OPN that was incapable of polymerization. The importance of in vivo polymerization was further confirmed with cystamine, a transglutaminase inhibitor, which blocked the polymerization and attenuated OPN*-mediated neutrophil recruitment. The thrombin-cleaved N-terminal fragment of OPN, another ligand for α9β1, was not responsible for neutrophil accumulation because a thrombin cleavage-incompetent mutant recruited similar numbers of neutrophils as wild type OPN*. Neutrophil accumulation in response to both wild type and thrombin cleavage-incompetent OPN* was reduced in mice lacking the integrin α9 subunit in leukocytes, indicating that α9β1 is required for polymerization-induced recruitment. We have illustrated a physiological role of molecular polymerization by demonstrating acquired chemotactic properties for OPN.

Tissue transglutaminase-mediated glutamine deamidation of beta-amyloid peptide increases peptide solubility, whereas enzymatic cross-linking and peptide fragmentation may serve as molecular triggers for rapid peptide aggregation

Tissue transglutaminase (TGase) has been implicated in a number of cellular processes and disease states, where the enzymatic actions of TGase may serve in both, cell survival and apoptosis. To date, the precise functional properties of TGase in cell survival or cell death mechanisms still remain elusive. TGase-mediated cross-linking has been reported to account for the formation of insoluble lesions in conformational diseases. We report here that TGase induces intramolecular cross-linking of β-amyloid peptide (Aβ), resulting in structural changes of monomeric Aβ. Using high resolution mass spectrometry (MS) of cross-linked Aβ peptides, we observed a shift in mass, which is, presumably associated with the loss of NH3 due to enzymatic transamidation activity and hence intramolecular peptide cross-linking. We have observed that a large population of Aβ monomers contained an 0.984 Da increase in mass at a glutamine residue, indicating that glutamine 15 serves as an indispensable substrate in TGase-mediated deamidation to glutamate 15. We provide strong analytical evidence on TGase-mediated Aβ peptide dimerization, through covalent intermolecular cross-linking and hence the formation of Aβ1-40 dimers. Our in depth analyses indicate that TGase-induced post-translational modifications of Aβ peptide may serve as an important seed for aggregation.

Plasma membrane factor XIIIA transglutaminase activity regulates osteoblast matrix secretion and deposition by affecting microtubule dynamics

Transglutaminase activity, arising potentially from transglutaminase 2 (TG2) and Factor XIIIA (FXIIIA), has been linked to osteoblast differentiation where it is required for type I collagen and fibronectin matrix deposition. In this study we have used an irreversible TG-inhibitor to ‘block –and-track’ enzyme(s) targeted during osteoblast differentiation. We show that the irreversible TG-inhibitor is highly potent in inhibiting osteoblast differentiation and mineralization and reduces secretion of both fibronectin and type I collagen and their release from the cell surface. Tracking of the dansyl probe by Western blotting and immunofluorescence microscopy demonstrated that the inhibitor targets plasma membrane-associated FXIIIA. TG2 appears not to contribute to crosslinking activity on the osteoblast surface. Inhibition of FXIIIA with NC9 resulted in defective secretory vesicle delivery to the plasma membrane which was attributable to a disorganized microtubule network and decreased microtubule association with the plasma membrane. NC9 inhibition of FXIIIA resulted in destabilization of microtubules as assessed by cellular Glu-tubulin levels. Furthermore, NC9 blocked modification of Glu-tubulin into 150 kDa high-molecular weight Glu-tubulin form which was specifically localized to the plasma membrane. FXIIIA enzyme and its crosslinking activity were colocalized with plasma membrane-associated tubulin, and thus, it appears that FXIIIA crosslinking activity is directed towards stabilizing the interaction of microtubules with the plasma membrane. Our work provides the first mechanistic cues as to how transglutaminase activity could affect protein secretion and matrix deposition in osteoblasts and suggests a novel function for plasma membrane FXIIIA in microtubule dynamics.

The collagen family

Collagens are the most abundant proteins in mammals. The collagen family comprises 28 members that contain at least one triple-helical domain. Collagens are deposited in the extracellular matrix where most of them form supramolecular assemblies. Four collagens are type II membrane proteins that also exist in a soluble form released from the cell surface by shedding. Collagens play structural roles and contribute to mechanical properties, organization, and shape of tissues. They interact with cells via several receptor families and regulate their proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Some collagens have a restricted tissue distribution and hence specific biological functions.

Overexpression of transglutaminase in the Drosophila wing imaginal disc induced an extra wing crossvein phenotype

To determine the roles of Drosophila transglutaminase-A (dTG-A), we examined a phenotype induced through ectopic expression of dTG-A. Overexpression of dTG-A in the wing imaginal disc induced an extra wing crossvein phenotype. This phenotype was suppressed by crossing with epidermal growth factor receptor (Egfr) signaling pathway mutant flies. These results indicate that this phenotype, induced by dTG-A, is related to enhancement of the Egfr signaling pathway.

Erythrocytic transglutaminase inhibition hemolysis at presentation of celiac disease

Celiac disease (CD) is a common autoimmune condition. Previously it was considered to be a rare childhood disorder, but is actually considered a relatively common condition, present at any age, which may have multiple complications and manifestations. Hematological disorders of the disease are not uncommon. Among these disorders, the most frequently reported are anemias as a result of iron deficiency, often associated with folate and/or B12 deficiency. Anemias caused by hemolysis are very rarely reported in celiac patients. An 11-year-old girl with a previous uneventful medical history presented with severe hemolytic anemia. Hemolysis was Coombs negative, accompanied by inappropriate low reticulocyte count, despite exaggerated bone marrow hyperplasia of the erythroid precursors which showed normal maturation. Serology for recent infections, including Epstein-Barr virus, parvovirus B19, cytomegalovirus and mycoplasma, were all negative. Levels of serum IgA, IgG and IgM, were all within normal ranges for age. Screening for anti-DNA, antinuclear, antineutrophil cytoplasmic, antimicrosomal, antithyroglobulin, and antimitochondrial antibodies and lupus anticoagulants, was negative. She was also negative for human immunodeficiency virus. Conventional therapy with corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin failed. CD was serendipitously discovered upon screening for anti-tissue transglutaminase autoantibodies. The disease was confirmed by biopsy of the small intestine mucosa. The patient recovered with gluten-free diet. A unique case of CD is presented. CD should be serologically screened in each patient with Coombs negative “immune” hemolytic anemia, particularly if accompanied by “reticulocytopenia”. A new hemolytic mechanism and very speculative explanation for “reticulocytopenia” are discussed.

Potential of transglutaminase 2 as a therapeutic target

IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD

Increased expression and activity of transglutaminase 2 - a calcium-dependent enzyme which catalyzes protein cross-linking, polyamination or deamidation at selective glutamine residues - are involved in the etiopathogenesis of several pathological conditions, such as neurodegenerative disorders, autoimmune diseases and inflammatory diseases. Inhibition of enzyme activity has potential for therapeutic management of these diseases.

AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW

The major results achieved in the last twelve years of research in the field of inhibition of tranglutaminase activity using cell cultures as well as in vivo models of high-social-impact or widespread diseases, such as CNS neurodegenerative disorders, celiac sprue, cancer and fibrotic diseases.

WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN

Beneficial effects of enzyme activity inhibition have been observed in neurodegeneration and fibrosis in vivo models by delivery of the competitive inhibitor cystamine and more recently designed inhibitors, such as thiomidaziolium or norleucine derivatives, which irreversibly bind the active site cysteine residue. Transglutaminase 2 targeting with specific antibodies has also been shown to be a promising tool for celiac disease treatment.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE

New insights from transglutaminase inhibition studies dealing with side effects of in vivo administration of pan-transglutaminase inhibitors will help in design of novel therapeutic approaches to various diseases.

Screening of substrate peptide sequences for tissue-type transglutaminase (TGase 2) using T7 phage cDNA library

Transglutaminase (TGase) is a family of enzymes that catalyzes cross-linking reaction between glutamine- and lysine residue of substrate proteins in several mammalian biological events. Substrate proteins for TGase and their physiological relevance have been still in research, continuously expanding. In this study, we have established a novel screening system that enables identification of cDNA sequence encoding favorable primary structure as a substrate for tissue-type transglutaminase (TGase 2), a multifunctional and ubiquitously expressing isozyme. By the screening, we identified several T7 phage clones that displayed substrate peptides for TGase 2 as a translated product from human brain cDNA library. Among the selected clones, the C-terminal region of IKAP, IkappaB kinase complex associated protein, appeared as a highly reactive substrate sequence for TGase 2. This system will open possibility of rapid identification of substrate sequences for transglutaminases at a genetic level.

Role of protein transamidation in serotonin-induced proliferation and migration of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells

Pulmonary hypertension is characterized by elevated pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation and migration. Clinical and experimental evidence suggests that serotonin (5-HT) is important in these responses. We previously demonstrated the participation of the 5-HT transporter and intracellular 5-HT (5-HTi) in the pulmonary vascular SMC-proliferative response to 5-HT. However, the mechanism underlying the intracellular actions of 5-HT is unknown. We speculated that 5-HTi activates SMC growth by post-translational transamidation of proteins via transglutaminase (TGase) activity, a process referred to as serotonylation. To test this hypothesis, serotonylation of pulmonary artery SMC proteins, and their role in 5-HT-induced proliferative and migratory responses, were assessed. 5-HT caused dose- and time-dependent increase in serotonylation of multiple proteins in both bovine and rat pulmonary artery SMCs. Inhibition of TGase with dansylcadaverin blocked this activity, as well as SMC-proliferative and migratory responses to 5-HT. Serotonylation of proteins also was blocked by 5-HT transporter inhibitors, and was enhanced by inhibition of monoamine oxidase, an enzyme known to degrade 5-HTi, indicating that 5-HTi levels regulate serotonylation. Immunoprecipitation assays and HPLC-mass spectral peptide sequencing revealed that a major protein serotonylated by TGase was fibronectin (FN). 5-HT-stimulated SMC serotonylation and proliferation were blocked by FN small interfering (si) RNA. These findings, together with previous observations that FN expression in the lung strongly correlates with the progression of pulmonary hypertension in both experimental animals and humans, suggest an important role of FN serotonylation in the pathogenesis of this disease.

Serotonin--more than a neurotransmitter: transglutaminase-mediated serotonylation of C6 glioma cells and fibronectin

In the central nervous system serotonin plays important roles as a neurotransmitter as well as during neuronal development and in synaptogenesis. Outside the central nervous system, serotonin is covalently transamidated to procoagulant proteins involved in blood clotting. This process is mediated by transglutaminases and named "serotonylation". Serotonylated proteins then tightly bind to specific serotonin binding sites on fibrinogen and thrombospondin to form stable extracellular multivalent complexes needed for thrombus formation. Here, we have investigated whether transglutaminases can also covalently incorporate extracellular serotonin to neural proteins and whether this might affect extracellular protein expression. Our data reveal that recombinant transglutaminase specifically transamidates [(3)H]-serotonin to cell-surface proteins from C6 glioma cells and the extracellular matrix protein fibronectin. Serotonylation of [(3)H]-serotonin was inhibited by the transglutaminase inhibitor cystamine and unlabelled serotonin. Transglutaminase-mediated transamidation of unlabelled serotonin to C6 cells induced an aggregation of extracellular protein matrices adjacent to and between single cells. Transglutaminase also transamidated the autofluorescent serotonin analogue 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine and monodansylcadaverine (MDC) into living C6 glioma cells. Electrophoretic separation of MDC-labelled C6 cells identified several distinct fluorescent proteins one of which was fibronectin.

An in situ and in vitro investigation for the transglutaminase potential in tissue engineering

Transglutaminases (TGases) constitute a family of enzymes that stabilize protein assemblies by gamma-glutamyl-epsilon-lysine crosslinks. The role of tissue transglutaminase (TGase 2) in several pathophysiologies, wound healing applications, biomaterials functionalization, and drug delivery systems provides grounds for its use in tissue engineering. Herein, we initially studied the endogenous TGase activity and expression under normal (skin, duodenum, colon, and small bowel) and pathophysiological (keloid scar) conditions on cadaveric human tissues. Successful inhibition was achieved using low concentrations of BOC-DON-QIV-OMe (0.1 mM and 1 mM for normal skin and keloid scar, respectively), iodoacetamide (0.1 mM and 1 mM for normal skin and keloid scar, respectively), and cystamine dihydrochloride (1 mM and 10 mM for normal skin and keloid scar, respectively), whilst di-BOC-cystamine was found ineffective even at 100 mM concentration. Secondly, the addition of exogenous guinea pig liver transglutaminase (gpTGase) onto the inhibited tissues and collagen scaffolds was studied, and results presented advocate its use as potential tissue adhesive and drug delivery tool. However, the investigation of its crosslinking extent using second harmonic generation microscopy and differentially scanning calorimetry revealed rather poor stabilization function. Overall, our study indicates that TGase 2 has a role as a biological glue to consolidate various micro-structural components of tissues and biomaterials.

Activation of mannan-binding lectin-associated serine proteases leads to generation of a fibrin clot

The lectin pathway of complement is activated upon binding of mannan-binding lectin (MBL) or ficolins (FCNs) to their targets. Upon recognition of targets, the MBL-and FCN-associated serine proteases (MASPs) are activated, allowing them to generate the C3 convertase C4b2a. Recent findings indicate that the MASPs also activate components of the coagulation system. We have previously shown that MASP-1 has thrombin-like activity whereby it cleaves and activates fibrinogen and factor XIII. MASP-2 has factor Xa-like activity and activates prothrombin through cleavage to form thrombin. We now report that purified L-FCN-MASPs complexes, bound from serum to N-acetylcysteine-Sepharose, or MBL-MASPs complexes, bound to mannan-agarose, generate clots when incubated with calcified plasma or purified fibrinogen and factor XIII. Plasmin digestion of the clot and analysis using anti-D-dimer antibodies revealed that the clot was made up of fibrin and was similar to that generated by thrombin in normal human plasma. Fibrinopeptides A and B (FPA and FPB, respectively) were released after fibrinogen cleavage by L-FCN-MASPs complexes captured on N-acetylcysteine-Sepharose. Studies of inhibition of fibrinopeptide release indicated that the dominant pathway for clotting catalysed by the MASPs is via MASP-2 and prothrombin activation, as hirudin, a thrombin inhibitor that does not inhibit MASP-1 and MASP-2, substantially inhibits fibrinopeptide release. In the light of their potent chemoattractant effects on neutrophil and fibroblast recruitment, the MASP-mediated release of FPA and FPB may play a role in early immune activation. Additionally, MASP-catalysed deposition and polymerization of fibrin on the surface of micro-organisms may be protective by limiting the dissemination of infection.

Rapid interactome profiling by massive sequencing

We have developed a high-throughput protein expression and interaction analysis platform that combines cDNA phage display library selection and massive gene sequencing using the 454 platform. A phage display library of open reading frame (ORF) fragments was created from mRNA derived from different tissues. This was used to study the interaction network of the enzyme transglutaminase 2 (TG2), a multifunctional enzyme involved in the regulation of cell growth, differentiation and apoptosis, associated with many different pathologies. After two rounds of panning with TG2 we assayed the frequency of ORFs within the selected phage population using 454 sequencing. Ranking and analysis of more than 120 000 sequences allowed us to identify several potential interactors, which were subsequently confirmed in functional assays. Within the identified clones, three had been previously described as interacting proteins (fibronectin, SMOC1 and GSTO2), while all the others were new. When compared with standard systems, such as microtiter enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay, the method described here is dramatically faster and yields far more information about the interaction under study, allowing better characterization of complex systems. For example, in the case of fibronectin, it was possible to identify the specific domains involved in the interaction.

Cell surface changes in the egg at fertilization

An egg changes dramatically at fertilization. These changes include its developmental potential, its physiology, its gene expression profile, and its cell surface. This review highlights the changes in the cell surface of the egg that occur in response to sperm. These changes include modifications to the extracellular matrix, to the plasma membrane, and to the secretory vesicles whose contents direct many of these events. In some species, these changes occur within minutes of fertilization, and are sufficiently dramatic so that they can be seen by the light microscope. Many of these morphological changes were documented in remarkable detail early in the 1900 s by Ernest Everett Just. A recent conference in honor of his contributions stimulated this overview. We highlight the major cell surface changes that occur in echinoderms, one of Just's preferred research organisms.

Cell signaling, internalization, and nuclear localization of the angiotensin converting enzyme in smooth muscle and endothelial cells

The angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) catalyzes the extracellular formation of angiotensin II, and degradation of bradykinin, thus regulating blood pressure and renal handling of electrolytes. We have previously shown that exogenously added ACE elicited transcriptional regulation independent of its enzymatic activity. Because transcriptional regulation generates from protein-DNA interactions within the cell nucleus we have investigated the initial cellular response to exogenous ACE and the putative internalization of the enzyme in smooth muscle cells (SMC) and endothelial cells (EC). The following phenomena were observed when ACE was added to cells in culture: 1) it bound to SMC and EC with high affinity (K(d) = 361.5 +/- 60.5 pM) and with a low binding occupancy (B(max) = 335.0 +/- 14.0 molecules/cell); 2) it triggered cellular signaling resulting in late activation of focal adhesion kinase and SHP2; 3) it modulated platelet-derived growth factor receptor-beta signaling; 4) it was endocytosed by SMC and EC; and 5) it transited through the early endosome, partially occupied the late endosome and the lysosome, and was localized to the nuclei. The incorporation of ACE or a fragment of it into the nuclei reached saturation at 120 min, and was preceded by a lag time of 40 min. Internalized ACE was partially cleaved into small fragments. These results revealed that extracellular ACE modulated cell signaling properties, and that SMC and EC have a pathway for delivery of extracellular ACE to the nucleus, most likely involving cell surface receptor(s) and requiring transit through late endosome/lysosome compartments.

Heparan sulfate and transglutaminase activity are required for the formation of covalently cross-linked hedgehog oligomers

Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling plays major roles in embryonic development and has also been associated with the progression of certain cancers. Here, Shh family members act directly as long range morphogens, and their ability to do so has been linked to the formation of freely diffusible multimers from the lipidated, cell-tethered monomer (ShhNp). In this work we demonstrate that the multimeric morphogen secreted from endogenous sources, such as mouse embryos and primary chick chondrocytes, consists of oligomeric substructures that are "undisruptable" by boiling, denaturants, and reducing agents. Undisruptable (UD) morphogen oligomers vary in molecular weight and possess elevated biological activity if compared with recombinant Sonic hedgehog (ShhN). However, ShhN can also undergo UD oligomerization via a heparan sulfate (HS)-dependent mechanism in vitro, and HS isolated from different sources differs in its ability to mediate UD oligomer formation. Moreover, site-directed mutagenesis of conserved ShhN glutamine residues abolishes UD oligomerization, and inhibitors directed against transglutaminase (TG) activity strongly decrease the amount of chondrocyte-secreted UD oligomers. These findings reveal an unsuspected ability of the N-terminal hedgehog (Hh) signaling domain to form biologically active, covalently cross-linked oligomers and a novel HS function in this TG-catalyzed process. We suggest that in hypertrophic chondrocytes, HS-assisted, TG-mediated Hh oligomerization modulates signaling via enhanced protein signaling activity.

Quantitative proteomics using formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues of oral squamous cell carcinoma

Clinical proteomics using a large archive of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue blocks has long been a challenge. Recently, a method for extracting proteins from FFPE tissue in the form of tryptic peptides was developed. Here we report the application of a highly sensitive mass spectrometry (MS)-based quantitative proteome method to a small amount of samples obtained by laser microdissection from FFPE tissues. Cancerous and adjacent normal epithelia were microdissected from FFPE tissue blocks of 10 squamous cell carcinomas of the tongue. Proteins were extracted in the form of tryptic peptides and analyzed by 2-dimensional image-converted analysis of liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (2DICAL), a label-free quantitative proteomics method developed in our laboratory. From a total of 25 018 peaks we selected 72 mass peaks whose expression differed significantly between cancer and normal tissues (P < 0.001, paired t-test). The expression of transglutaminase 3 (TGM3) was significantly down-regulated in cancer and correlated with loss of histological differentiation. Hypermethylation of TGM3 gene CpG islands was observed in 12 oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell lines with reduced TGM3 expression. These results suggest that epigenetic silencing of TGM3 plays certain roles in the process of oral carcinogenesis. The method for quantitative proteomic analysis of FFPE tissue described here offers new opportunities to identify disease-specific biomarkers and therapeutic targets using widely available archival samples with corresponding detailed pathological and clinical records.

Transglutaminases in inflammation and fibrosis of the gastrointestinal tract and the liver

Transglutaminases are a family of eight currently known calcium-dependent enzymes that catalyze the cross-linking or deamidation of proteins. They are involved in important biological processes such as wound healing, tissue repair, fibrogenesis, apoptosis, inflammation and cell-cycle control. Therefore, they play important roles in the pathomechanisms of autoimmune, inflammatory and degenerative diseases, many of which affect the gastrointestinal system. Transglutaminase 2 is prominent, since it is central to the pathogenesis of celiac disease, and modulates inflammation and fibrosis in inflammatory bowel and chronic liver diseases. This review highlights our present understanding of transglutaminase function in gastrointestinal and liver diseases and therapeutic strategies that target transglutaminase activities.

Extracellular matrix modifications at fertilization: regulation of dityrosine crosslinking by transamidation

Fertilization is accompanied by the construction of an extracellular matrix that protects the new zygote. In sea urchins, this structure is built from glycoproteins residing at the egg surface and in secretory vesicles at the egg cortex. Four enzymatic activities are required for the transformation of these proteins into the mechanically and chemically resilient fertilization envelope: proteolysis, transamidation, NADPH-dependent oxidation and peroxidation. Here, we identify the Strongylocentrotus purpuratus enzymes responsible for the formation of epsilon(gamma-glutamyl)lysine crosslinks (transamidation). We find that these two transglutaminases are activated by local acidification and act on specific substrates within the fertilization envelope (including ovoperoxidase, rendezvin and SFE9). Surprisingly, these enzymes also regulate dityrosine crosslinking both by direct conjugation of ovoperoxidase and by modulating hydrogen peroxide production. Together, these results emphasize how transglutaminases can coordinate the activities of other enzymes during extracellular matrix transmogrifications.

Quantitative and rapid analysis of transglutaminase activity using protein arrays in mammalian cells

We developed a novel on-chip activity assay using protein arrays for quantitative and rapid analysis of transglutami-nase activity in mammalian cells. Transglutaminases are a family of Ca2+-dependent enzymes involved in cell regulation as well as human diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders, inflammatory diseases and tumor progression. We fabricated the protein arrays by immobilizing N,N'-dimethylcasein (a substrate) on the amine surface of the arrays. We initiated transamidating reaction on the protein arrays and determined the transglutaminase activity by analyzing the fluorescence intensity of biotinylated casein. The on-chip transglutaminase activity assay was proved to be much more sensitive than the [3H]putrescine-incorporation assay. We successfully applied the on-chip assay to a rapid and quantitative analysis of the transgluta-minase activity in all-trans retinoic acid-treated NIH 3T3 and SH-SY5Y cells. In addition, the on-chip transglutaminase activity assay was sufficiently sensitive to determine the transglutaminase activity in eleven mammalian cell lines. Thus, this novel on-chip transglutaminase activity assay was confirmed to be a sensitive and high-throughput approach to investigating the roles of transglutaminase in cellular signaling, and, moreover, it is likely to have a strong potential for monitoring human diseases.

Fibroblast apoptosis in a patient affected by lamellar ichthyosis

BACKGROUND

Lamellar ichthyosis (LI) is a congenital recessive skin disorder characterized by generalized scaling and hyperkeratosis. The pathology may be caused by mutations in transglutaminase 1 (TGM1) gene that encodes an enzyme critical for terminally differentiating keratinocytes. Because of evidences that transglutaminase enzymes are involved in programmed cell death, we investigated morphological and biochemical apoptotic parameters in cultured skin fibroblasts from a patient with a severe LI and homozygous for the TGM1 R142H mutation.

METHOD

The principle apoptotic signals (mitochondrial membrane potential, analysis of oxygen consumption, DNA fragmentation and Bax/Bcl-2 gene expression) were analyzed in cultured fibroblasts from a LI patient, his mother (TGM1 mutation carrier) and a control subject.

RESULTS

LI fibroblasts showing a reduction of fibronectin expression evidenced a strong inhibition of oxygen consumption, a dramatic drop in the mitochondrial membrane potential (Delta psi(m)), and a higher apoptotic index.

CONCLUSION

The present results suggest a possible connection between the alterations in the keratinization process leading to LI and the observed increased fibroblast apoptosis.

Transglutaminases expression in human supraspinatus tendon ruptures and in mouse tendons

The ethiopathogenesis of rotator cuff disease remains poorly understood. Many studies advocate the importance of extra cellular matrix for the homeostasis of connective tissue. Transglutaminase enzymes family has been studied in the context of connective tissue formation and stabilisation. Here, we investigated transglutaminases expression pattern in biopsies of normal and injured supraspinatus tendons of human shoulders and in the Achilles tendons of transglutaminase 2 knock-out and wild-type mice. Our results show that different transglutaminase family members are differentially expressed in human and mouse tendons, and that transglutaminase 2 is down-regulated at mRNA and protein levels upon human supraspinatus tendon ruptures.

The end product of transglutaminase crosslinking: simultaneous quantitation of [Nepsilon-(gamma-glutamyl) lysine] and lysine by HPLC-MS3

Transglutaminases catalyze the formation of Nepsilon-(gamma-glutamyl) isodipeptide crosslinks between proteins. These enzymes are thought to participate in a number of diseases, including neurological disease and cancer. A method associating liquid chromatography and multiple stage mass spectrometry has been developed for the simultaneous quantitation of [Nepsilon-(gamma-glutamyl) lysine] isodipeptide and lysine on an ion trap mass spectrometer. Highly specific detection has been achieved in MS3 mode. The method includes a derivatization step consisting of butylation of carboxylic groups and acetylation of amide groups, a liquid-liquid extraction, and a 19-min separation on a 100x2.1-mm Beta-basic C18 column with an acetonitrile gradient elution. 13C6-(15)N2 isotopes of the isodipeptide and the lysine serve as internal standards. The assay was linear in the range of 50 pmol/ml to 75 nmol/ml for the isodipeptide and the range of 10 nmol/ml to 3.5 micromol/ml for the lysine, with correlation coefficients greater than 0.99 for both ions. Intra- and inter-day coefficients of variation ranged from 3.5 to 15.9%. The method was successfully applied to human biological samples known to be crosslinked by transglutaminase such as cornified envelopes of epidermis, fibrin, and normal and Huntington disease brain.