Caveolins, liquid-ordered domains, and signal transduction

Cardiac Sodium Channel Mutations: Why so Many Phenotypes?

The cardiac Na(+) channel (Nav1.5) conducts a depolarizing inward Na(+) current that is responsible for the generation of the upstroke Phase 0 of the action potential. In heart tissue, changes in Na(+) currents can affect conduction velocity and impulse propagation. The cardiac Nav1.5 is also involved in determination of the action potential duration, since some channels may reopen during the plateau phase, generating a persistent or late inward current. Mutations of cardiac Nav1.5 can induce gain or loss of channel function because of an increased late current or a decrease of peak current, respectively. Gain-of-function mutations cause Long QT syndrome type 3 and possibly atrial fibrillation, while loss-of-function channel mutations are associated with a wider variety of phenotypes, such as Brugada syndrome, cardiac conduction disease, dilated cardiomyopathy, and sick sinus node syndrome. The penetrance and phenotypes resulting from Nav1.5 mutations also vary with age, gender, body temperature, circadian rhythm, and between regions of the heart. This phenotypic variability makes it difficult to correlate genotype-phenotype. We propose that mutations are only one contributor to the phenotype and additional modifications on Nav1.5 lead to the phenotypic variability. Possible modifiers include other genetic variations and alterations in the life cycle of Nav1.5 such as gene transcription, RNA processing, translation, posttranslational modifications, trafficking, complex assembly, and degradation. In this chapter, we summarize potential modifiers of cardiac Nav1.5 that could help explain the clinically observed phenotypic variability. Consideration of these modifiers could help improve genotype-phenotype correlations and lead to new therapeutic strategies.

Membrane-mediated regulation of vascular identity

Vascular diseases span diverse pathology, but frequently arise from aberrant signaling attributed to specific membrane-associated molecules, particularly the Eph-ephrin family. Originally recognized as markers of embryonic vessel identity, Eph receptors and their membrane-associated ligands, ephrins, are now known to have a range of vital functions in vascular physiology. Interactions of Ephs with ephrins at cell-to-cell interfaces promote a variety of cellular responses such as repulsion, adhesion, attraction, and migration, and frequently occur during organ development, including vessel formation. Elaborate coordination of Eph- and ephrin-related signaling among different cell populations is required for proper formation of the embryonic vessel network. There is growing evidence supporting the idea that Eph and ephrin proteins also have postnatal interactions with a number of other membrane-associated signal transduction pathways, coordinating translation of environmental signals into cells. This article provides an overview of membrane-bound signaling mechanisms that define vascular identity in both the embryo and the adult, focusing on Eph- and ephrin-related signaling. We also discuss the role and clinical significance of this signaling system in normal organ development, neoplasms, and vascular pathologies.

The influence of a caveolin-1 mutant on the function of P-glycoprotein

The genetic heterogeneity in cancer cells has an increased chance in the acquisition of new mutant such as drug-resistant phenotype in cancer cells. The phenotype of drug resistance in cancer cells could be evaluated by the number or function of drug transporters on cell membranes, which would lead to decreased intracellular anti-cancer drugs concentration. Caveolae are flask-shaped invaginations on cell membrane that function in membrane trafficking, endocytosis, and as a compartment where receptors and signaling proteins are concentrated. Caveolin-1 (CAV1) is the principal structural protein of caveolae and closely correlates with multidrug resistance in cancer cells. In a systematic study of the ubiquitin-modified proteome, lysine 176 of CAV1 was identified as a potential post-translational modification site for ubiquitination. In this article, we identified a mutation at lysine 176 to arginine (K176R) on CAV1 would interfere with the biogenesis of caveolae and broke the interaction of CAV1 with P-glycoprotein. Functional assays further revealed that K176R mutant of CAV1 in cancer cells increased the transport activity of P-glycoprotein and decreased the killing ability of anti-cancer drugs in non-small-cell lung cancer cell lines.

Swing motion as a diffusion mechanism of lipid bilayers in a gel phase

Lipid bilayers are a model system for studying the properties of cell membranes. For lipid bilayers of a single lipid component, there is a phase transition from a fluid phase to a gel phase as the temperature is decreased. The dynamic behavior of lipids in the gel phase is interesting: some models show dynamic heterogeneity with a large disparity in timescales between fast and slow molecules, and a spatial segregation of the slow molecules. In this paper we study the dynamics of coarse-grained models of lipid bilayers using the dry Martini, Lennard-Jones Martini, polarizable Martini, and BMW models. All four models show similar dynamical behaviors in the gel phase although the transition temperature is model-dependent. We find that the primary mode of transport in the gel phase is a hopping of the lipid molecules. Hopping is seen in both the translational and rotational dynamics, which are correlated, i.e., the lipid molecules display a swing-like motion in the gel phase.

Effect of caveolin-1 on the expression of tight junction-associated proteins in rat glioma-derived microvascular endothelial cells

Caveolin-1 affects the permeability of blood-tumor barrier (BTB) by regulating the expression of tight junction-associated proteins. However, the effect is still controversial. In the present work, we studied the regulative effect of caveolin-1 on the expression of tight junction-associated proteins and BTB via directly silencing and overexpressing of caveolin-1 by recombinant adenovirus transduction of glioma-derived microvascular endothelial cells in rat brain. The results show that the caveolin-1 downregulation resulted in decreased expression of tight junction-associated proteins, opening of tight junctions, and increasing the permeability of BTB, whereas the overexpression of caveolin-1 presented the opposite effects. Therefore, we conclude that caveolin-1 regulates the expression of tight junction-associated proteins in a positive manner, which further plays a role in the regulation of BTB permeability. This finding provides a novel therapeutic target for selectively opening of BTB.

High Efficacy but Low Potency of δ-Opioid Receptor-G Protein Coupling in Brij-58-Treated, Low-Density Plasma Membrane Fragments

Principal Findings

HEK293 cells stably expressing PTX-insensitive δ-opioid receptor-Gi1α (C³⁵¹I) fusion protein were homogenized, treated with low concentrations of non-ionic detergent Brij-58 at 0°C and fractionated by flotation in sucrose density gradient. In optimum range of detergent concentrations (0.025–0.05% w/v), Brij-58-treated, low-density membranes exhibited 2-3-fold higher efficacy of DADLE-stimulated, high-affinity [³²P]GTPase and [³⁵S]GTPγS binding than membranes of the same density prepared in the absence of detergent. The potency of agonist DADLE response was significantly decreased. At high detergent concentrations (>0.1%), the functional coupling between δ-opioid receptors and G proteins was completely diminished. The same detergent effects were measured in plasma membranes isolated from PTX-treated cells. Therefore, the effect of Brij-58 on δ-opioid receptor-G protein coupling was not restricted to the covalently bound G_i1α within δ-opioid receptor-G_i1α fusion protein, but it was also valid for PTX-sensitive G proteins of G_i/G_o family endogenously expressed in HEK293 cells. Characterization of the direct effect of Brij-58 on the hydrophobic interior of isolated plasma membranes by steady-state anisotropy of diphenylhexatriene (DPH) fluorescence indicated a marked increase of membrane fluidity. The time-resolved analysis of decay of DPH fluorescence by the “wobble in cone” model of DPH motion in the membrane indicated that the exposure to the increasing concentrations of Brij-58 led to a decreased order and higher motional freedom of the dye.

Summary

Limited perturbation of plasma membrane integrity by low concentrations of non-ionic detergent Brij-58 results in alteration of δ-OR-G protein coupling. Maximum G protein-response to agonist stimulation (efficacy) is increased; affinity of response (potency) is decreased. The total degradation plasma membrane structure at high detergent concentrations results in diminution of functional coupling between δ-opioid receptors and G proteins.

An update on post-ejaculatory remodeling of the sperm surface before mammalian fertilization

The fusion of a sperm with an oocyte to form new life is a highly regulated event. The activation-also termed capacitation-of the sperm cell is one of the key preparative steps required for this process. Ejaculated sperm has to make a journey through the female uterus and oviduct before it can approach the oocyte. The oocyte at that moment also has become prepared to facilitate monospermic fertilization and block immediately thereafter the chance for polyspermic fertilization. Interestingly, ejaculated sperm is not properly capacitated and consequently is not yet able to fertilize the oocyte. During the capacitation process, the formation of competent lipid-protein domains on the sperm head enables sperm-cumulus and zona pellucida interactions. This sperm binding allows the onset for a cascade reaction ultimately resulting in oocyte-sperm fusion. Many different lipids and proteins from the sperm surface are involved in this process. Sperm surface processing already starts when sperm are liberated from the seminiferous tubules and is followed by epididymal maturation where the sperm cell surface is modified and loaded with proteins to ensure it is prepared for its fertilization task. Although cauda epididymal sperm can fertilize the oocyte IVF, they are coated with so-called decapacitation factors during ejaculation. The seminal plasma-induced stabilization of the sperm surface permits the sperm transit through the cervix and uterus but prevents sperm capacitation and thus inhibits fertilization. For IVF purposes, sperm are washed out of seminal plasma and activated to get rid of decapacitation factors. Only after capacitation, the sperm can fertilize the oocyte. In recent years, IVF has become a widely used tool to achieve successful fertilization in both the veterinary field and human medicine. Although IVF procedures are very successful, scientific knowledge is still far from complete when identifying all the molecular players and processes during the first stages the fusion of two gametes into a new life. A concise overview in the current understanding of the process of capacitation and the sperm surface changes is provided. The gaps in knowledge of these prefertilization processes are critically discussed.

Integrated inference and evaluation of host-fungi interaction networks

Fungal microorganisms frequently lead to life-threatening infections. Within this group of pathogens, the commensal Candida albicans and the filamentous fungus Aspergillus fumigatus are by far the most important causes of invasive mycoses in Europe. A key capability for host invasion and immune response evasion are specific molecular interactions between the fungal pathogen and its human host. Experimentally validated knowledge about these crucial interactions is rare in literature and even specialized host–pathogen databases mainly focus on bacterial and viral interactions whereas information on fungi is still sparse. To establish large-scale host–fungi interaction networks on a systems biology scale, we develop an extended inference approach based on protein orthology and data on gene functions. Using human and yeast intraspecies networks as template, we derive a large network of pathogen–host interactions (PHI). Rigorous filtering and refinement steps based on cellular localization and pathogenicity information of predicted interactors yield a primary scaffold of fungi–human and fungi–mouse interaction networks. Specific enrichment of known pathogenicity-relevant genes indicates the biological relevance of the predicted PHI. A detailed inspection of functionally relevant subnetworks reveals novel host–fungal interaction candidates such as the Candida virulence factor PLB1 and the anti-fungal host protein APP. Our results demonstrate the applicability of interolog-based prediction methods for host–fungi interactions and underline the importance of filtering and refinement steps to attain biologically more relevant interactions. This integrated network framework can serve as a basis for future analyses of high-throughput host–fungi transcriptome and proteome data.

Mechanisms and consequences of endothelial nitric oxide synthase dysfunction in hypertension

Reduced nitric oxide bioavailability contributes to endothelial dysfunction and hypertension. The endothelial isoform of nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) is responsible for the production of nitric oxide within the endothelium. Loss of eNOS cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin to initial increase in oxidative stress leads to uncoupling of eNOS, in which the enzyme produces superoxide anion rather than nitric oxide, further substantiating oxidative stress to induce vascular pathogenesis. The current review focuses on recent advances on the molecular mechanisms and consequences of eNOS dysfunction in hypertension, and potential novel therapeutic strategies restoring eNOS function to treat hypertension.

Neonatal hyperthyroidism on rat heart: interrelation with nitric oxide and sex

PURPOSE

To clarify the mechanism mediating the effect of hyperthyroidism on cardiac function during the second month of life in rats.

METHODS

Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to a control or to a triiodothyronine (T3)-treated group. Treatment of each group was started on the third day after birth. Control rats (Eut) received 0.9 NaCl [0.1 ml/100 g body weight (BW)] every second day during 60 days and T3-treated rats (Hyper) received subcutaneous (SC) T3 injections every second day during 60 days.

RESULTS

Hyperthyroidism decreased left ventricle volume only in male rats. Female euthyroid rats presented higher atrial nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity than male rats and hormonal treatment decreased this enzyme's activity in both sexes. Euthyroid male and female rats had similar atrial NOS protein levels, but females had higher caveolin (cav) 3 protein levels. T3 treatment increased this protein only in males. Female rats had lower ventricular NOS activity than male rats; hyperthyroidism increased NOS activity in both sexes but this effect was associated with lower cav 3 protein levels. Hyperthyroidism did not change cav 1 protein levels in both male and female rats.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study demonstrating clinically relevant sex-related differences in the pathophysiology of the hyperthyroid heart have raised new questions regarding the mechanisms responsible for the observed differences. This study suggests that sex-related intrinsic factors such as nitric oxide may modulate the response to hyperthyroidism that leads to cardiovascular dysfunction.

Potential Signal Transduction Regulation by HDL of the β2-Adrenergic Receptor Pathway. Implications in Selected Pathological Situations

The main atheroprotective mechanism of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) has been regarded as reverse cholesterol transport, whereby cholesterol from peripheral tissues is removed and transported to the liver for elimination. Although numerous additional atheroprotective mechanisms have been suggested, the role of HDL in modulating signal transduction of cell membrane-bound receptors has received little attention to date. This potential was recently highlighted following the identification of a polymorphism in the adenylyl cyclase 9 gene (ADCY9) that was shown to be a determining factor in the risk of cardiovascular (CV) events in patients treated with the HDL-raising compound dalcetrapib. Indeed, ADCY9 is part of the signaling pathway of the β2-adrenergic receptor (β2-AR) and both are membrane-bound proteins affected by changes in membrane-rich cholesterol plasma membrane domains (caveolae). Numerous G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and ion channels are affected by caveolae, with caveolae composition acting as a 'signalosome'. Polymorphisms in the genes encoding ADCY9 and β2-AR are associated with response to β2-agonist drugs in patients with asthma, malaria and with sickle cell disease. Crystallization of the β2-AR has found cholesterol tightly bound to transmembrane structures of the receptor. Cholesterol has also been shown to modulate the activity of this receptor. Apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1), the major protein component of HDL, destabilizes and removes cholesterol from caveolae with high affinity through interaction with ATP-binding cassette transporter. Furthermore, β2-AR activity may be affected by ApoA1/HDL-targeted therapies. Taken together, these observations suggest a common pathway that potentially links a primary HDL function to the regulation of signal transduction.

Endothelial Caveolin-1 regulates the radiation response of epithelial prostate tumors

The membrane protein caveolin-1 (Cav1) recently emerged as a novel oncogene involved in prostate cancer progression with opposed regulation in epithelial tumor cells and the tumor stroma. Here we examined the role of stromal Cav1 for growth and radiation response of MPR31-4 prostate cancer xenograft tumors using Cav1-deficient C57Bl/6 mice. Syngeneic MPR31-4 tumors grew faster when implanted into Cav1-deficient mice. Increased tumor growth on Cav1-deficient mice was linked to decreased integration of smooth muscle cells into the wall of newly formed blood vessels and thus with a less stabilized vessel phenotype compared with tumors from Cav1 wild-type animals. However, tumor growth delay of MPR31-4 tumors grown on Cav1 knockout mice to a single high-dose irradiation with 20 Gray was more pronounced compared with tumors grown on wild-type mice. Increased radiation-induced tumor growth delay in Cav1-deficient mice was associated with an increased endothelial cell apoptosis. In vitro studies using cultured endothelial cells (ECs) confirmed that the loss of Cav1 expression increases sensitivity of ECs to radiation-induced apoptosis and reduces their clonogenic survival after irradiation. Immunohistochemical analysis of human tissue specimen further revealed that although Cav1 expression is mostly reduced in the tumor stroma of advanced and metastatic prostate cancer, the vascular compartment still expresses high levels of Cav1. In conclusion, the radiation response of MPR31-4 prostate tumors is critically regulated by Cav1 expression in the tumor vasculature. Thus, Cav1 might be a promising therapeutic target for combinatorial therapies to counteract radiation resistance of prostate cancer at the level of the tumor vasculature.

Cholesterol removal from adult skeletal muscle impairs excitation-contraction coupling and aging reduces caveolin-3 and alters the expression of other triadic proteins

Cholesterol and caveolin are integral membrane components that modulate the function/location of many cellular proteins. Skeletal muscle fibers, which have unusually high cholesterol levels in transverse tubules, express the caveolin-3 isoform but its association with transverse tubules remains contentious. Cholesterol removal impairs excitation–contraction (E–C) coupling in amphibian and mammalian fetal skeletal muscle fibers. Here, we show that treating single muscle fibers from adult mice with the cholesterol removing agent methyl-β-cyclodextrin decreased fiber cholesterol by 26%, altered the location pattern of caveolin-3 and of the voltage dependent calcium channel Cav1.1, and suppressed or reduced electrically evoked Ca²⁺ transients without affecting membrane integrity or causing sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) calcium depletion. We found that transverse tubules from adult muscle and triad fractions that contain ~10% attached transverse tubules, but not SR membranes, contained caveolin-3 and Cav1.1; both proteins partitioned into detergent-resistant membrane fractions highly enriched in cholesterol. Aging entails significant deterioration of skeletal muscle function. We found that triad fractions from aged rats had similar cholesterol and RyR1 protein levels compared to triads from young rats, but had lower caveolin-3 and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase and increased Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase protein levels. Both triad fractions had comparable NADPH oxidase (NOX) activity and protein content of NOX2 subunits (p47^phox and gp91^phox), implying that NOX activity does not increase during aging. These findings show that partial cholesterol removal impairs E–C coupling and alters caveolin-3 and Cav1.1 location pattern, and that aging reduces caveolin-3 protein content and modifies the expression of other triadic proteins. We discuss the possible implications of these findings for skeletal muscle function in young and aged animals.

Caveolin-1 mediates tissue plasminogen activator-induced MMP-9 up-regulation in cultured brain microvascular endothelial cells

Thrombolysis with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) increases matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity in the ischemic brain, which exacerbates blood-brain barrier injury and increases the risk of symptomatic cerebral hemorrhage. The mechanism through which tPA enhances MMP-9 activity is not well understood. Here we report an important role of caveolin-1 in mediating tPA-induced MMP-9 synthesis. Brain microvascular endothelial cell line bEnd3 cells were incubated with 5 or 20 μg/ml tPA for 24 hrs before analyzing MMP-9 levels in the conditioned media and cellular extracts by gelatin zymography. tPA at a dose of 20 μg/mL tPA, but not 5 μg/mL, significantly increased MMP-9 level in cultured media while decreasing it in cellular extracts. Concurrently, tPA treatment induced a 2.3-fold increase of caveolin-1 protein levels in endothelial cells. Interestingly, knockdown of Cav-1 with siRNA inhibited tPA-induced MMP-9 mRNA up-regulation and MMP-9 increase in the conditioned media, but did not affect MMP-9 decrease in cellular extracts. These results suggest that caveolin-1 critically contributes to tPA-mediated MMP-9 up-regulation, but may not facilitate MMP-9 secretion in endothelial cells. Thrombolysis with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) increases matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity in the ischemic brain, which exacerbates ischemic blood brain barrier (BBB) injury and increases the risk of symptomatic cerebral hemorrhage. Our results suggest a novel mechanism underlying this tPA-MMP 9 axis. In response to tPA treatment, caveolin-1 protein levels increased in endothelial cells, which mediate MMP-9 mRNA up-regulation and its secretion into extracellular space. Caveolin-1 may, however, not facilitate MMP-9 secretion in endothelial cells. Our data suggest caveolin-1 as a novel therapeutic target for protecting the BBB against ischemic damage. The schematic outlines tPA-induced MMP-9 upreguation.

Pre-B cell colony enhancing factor induces Nampt-dependent translocation of the insulin receptor out of lipid microdomains in A549 lung epithelial cells

Pre-B cell colony-enhancing factor (PBEF) is a highly conserved pleiotropic protein reported to be an alternate ligand for the insulin receptor (IR). We sought to clarify the relationship between PBEF and insulin signaling by evaluating the effects of PBEF on the localization of the IRβ chain to lipid rafts in A549 epithelial cells. We isolated lipid rafts from A549 cells and detected the IR by immunoprecipitation from raft fractions or whole cell lysates. Cells were treated with rPBEF, its enzymatic product nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), or the Nampt inhibitor daporinad to study the effect of PBEF on IRβ movement. We used coimmunoprecipitation studies in cells transfected with PBEF and IRβ constructs to detect interactions between PBEF, the IRβ, and caveolin-1 (Cav-1). PBEF was present in both lipid raft and nonraft fractions, whereas the IR was found only in lipid raft fractions of resting A549 cells. The IR-, PBEF-, and Cav-1-coimmunoprecipitated rPBEF treatment resulted in the movement of IRβ- and tyrosine-phosphorylated Cav-1 from lipid rafts to nonrafts, an effect that could be blocked by daporinad, suggesting that this effect was facilitated by the Nampt activity of PBEF. The addition of PBEF to insulin-treated cells resulted in reduced Akt phosphorylation of both Ser⁴⁷³ and Thr³⁰⁸. We conclude that PBEF can inhibit insulin signaling through the IR by Nampt-dependent promotion of IR translocation into the nonraft domains of A549 epithelial cells. PBEF-induced alterations in the spatial geometry of the IR provide a mechanistic explanation for insulin resistance in inflammatory states associated with upregulation of PBEF.

Pathways of polyunsaturated fatty acid utilization: implications for brain function in neuropsychiatric health and disease

Essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have profound effects on brain development and function. Abnormalities of PUFA status have been implicated in neuropsychiatric diseases such as major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Pathophysiologic mechanisms could involve not only suboptimal PUFA intake, but also metabolic and genetic abnormalities, defective hepatic metabolism, and problems with diffusion and transport. This article provides an overview of physiologic factors regulating PUFA utilization, highlighting their relevance to neuropsychiatric disease.

Membrane domain formation-a key factor for targeted intracellular drug delivery

Protein molecules, toxins and viruses internalize into the cell via receptor-mediated endocytosis (RME) using specific proteins and lipids in the plasma membrane. The plasma membrane is a barrier for many pharmaceutical agents to enter into the cytoplasm of target cells. In the case of cancer cells, tissue-specific biomarkers in the plasma membrane, like cancer-specific growth factor receptors, could be excellent candidates for RME-dependent drug delivery. Recent data suggest that agent binding to these receptors at the cell surface, resulting in membrane domain formation by receptor clustering, can be used for the initiation of RME. As a result, these pharmaceutical agents are internalized into the cells and follow different routes until they reach their final intracellular targets like lysosomes or Golgi. We propose that clustering induced formation of plasma membrane microdomains enriched in receptors, sphingolipids, and inositol lipids, leads to membrane bending which functions as the onset of RME. In this review we will focus on the role of domain formation in RME and discuss potential applications for targeted intracellular drug delivery.

Role of caveolin-3 in lymphocyte activation

AIMS

Caveolins are structural proteins clustered in lipid-rich regions of plasma membrane involved in coordinating signal transduction in various organ systems. While caveolin-1 (Cav-1) has been shown to regulate lymphocyte activation, the role of caveolin-3 (Cav-3) in immune system signaling has not been investigated. We tested the hypothesis that Cav-3 modulates lymphocyte activation.

MAIN METHODS

Lymphocyte/leukocyte subpopulations from WT and Cav-3 mice were profiled with flow cytometry. Cytokine production in quiescent and activated splenocytes from WT and Cav-3 mice was assessed with ELISA.

KEY FINDINGS

Levels of T-cells, monocytes, and natural killer cells were not different between WT and KO mice, however KO mice had lower B-cell population-percentage. Functionally, activated lymphocytes from Cav-3 KO mice demonstrated significantly reduced expression of IL-2 compared to WT, while expression of TNFα, IL-6, and IL-10 was not different. Finally, expression of IL-17 was significantly reduced in T-helper cells from KO mice, while IFNγ was not, suggesting that Cav-3 is a determinant in the development of the Th-17 subpopulation.

SIGNIFICANCE

This study is the first to demonstrate that Cav-3 may be a novel participant in B-cell expression, T-cell cytokine production and activation of inflammation.

Plasmodium falciparum avoids change in erythrocytic surface expression of phagocytosis markers during inhibition of nitric oxide synthase activity

Nitric oxide (NO) accumulates in Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes. It may be produced by a parasite NO synthase (NOS) or by nitrate reduction. The parasite's benefit of NO accumulation is not understood. We investigated if inhibiting the P. falciparum NOS with specific and unspecific NOS inhibitors led to a decrease in intraerythrocytic NO accumulation and if this was associated with a change in surface expression of the phagocytosis markers CD47 and phosphatidyl serine. The specific inducible NOS inhibitors l-canavanine and GW274150 dose-dependently decreased intraerythrocytic NO while l-NMMA (an unspecific NOS inhibitor) and caveolin-1 scaffolding domain peptide (a specific endothelial NOS inhibitor) did not affect NO levels. Phosphatidyl serine externalization markedly increased upon P. falciparum infection. l-canavanine did not modify this whereas caveolin-1 scaffolding domain peptide increased the fraction of phosphatidyl serine exposing cells significantly. The infection did not change the level of expression of neither total CD47 nor its oxidized form. Unrelated to NOS inhibition, incubation with caveolin-1 scaffolding domain peptide lead to a decrease in oxidized CD47. In conclusion, the data imply that NOS inhibitors decrease NO accumulation in P. falciparum-infected erythrocytes but this does not correlate with the level of two major erythrocytic phagocytosis markers.

Smuggling Drugs into the Brain: An Overview of Ligands Targeting Transcytosis for Drug Delivery across the Blood-Brain Barrier

The blood-brain barrier acts as a physical barrier that prevents free entry of blood-derived substances, including those intended for therapeutic applications. The development of molecular Trojan horses is a promising drug targeting technology that allows for non-invasive delivery of therapeutics into the brain. This concept relies on the application of natural or genetically engineered proteins or small peptides, capable of specifically ferrying a drug-payload that is either directly coupled or encapsulated in an appropriate nanocarrier, across the blood-brain barrier via receptor-mediated transcytosis. Specifically, in this process the nanocarrier-drug system ("Trojan horse complex") is transported transcellularly across the brain endothelium, from the blood to the brain interface, essentially trailed by a native receptor. Naturally, only certain properties would favor a receptor to serve as a transporter for nanocarriers, coated with appropriate ligands. Here we briefly discuss brain microvascular endothelial receptors that have been explored until now, highlighting molecular features that govern the efficiency of nanocarrier-mediated drug delivery into the brain.

Comparative analysis of caveolins in mouse and tammar wallaby: role in regulating mammary gland function

Recent studies using the mouse showed an inverse correlation between the Caveolin 1 gene expression and lactation, and this was regulated by prolactin. However, current study using mammary explants from pregnant mice showed that while insulin (I), cortisol (F) and prolactin (P) resulted in maximum induction of the β-casein gene, FP and IFP resulted in the downregulation of Caveolin 1. Additionally, IF, FP and IFP resulted in the downregulation of Caveolin 2. Immunohistochemistry confirmed localisation of Caveolin 1 specific to myoepithelial cells and adipocytes. Comparative studies with the tammar wallaby showed Caveolin 1 and 2 had 70-80% homology with the mouse proteins. However, in contrast to the mouse, Caveolin 1 and 2 genes showed a significantly increased level of expression in the mammary gland during lactation. The regulation of tammar Caveolin 1 and 2 gene expression was examined in mammary explants from pregnant tammars, and no significant difference was observed either in the absence or in the presence of IFP.

Cardiac sodium channel mutations: why so many phenotypes?

Mutations of the cardiac sodium channel (Nav1.5) can induce gain or loss of channel function. Gain-of-function mutations can cause long QT syndrome type 3 and possibly atrial fibrillation, whereas loss-of-function mutations are associated with a variety of phenotypes, such as Brugada syndrome, cardiac conduction disease, sick sinus syndrome, and possibly dilated cardiomyopathy. The phenotypes produced by Nav1.5 mutations vary according to the direct effect of the mutation on channel biophysics, but also with age, sex, body temperature, and between regions of the heart. This phenotypic variability makes genotype-phenotype correlations difficult. In this Perspectives article, we propose that phenotypic variability not ascribed to mutation-dependent changes in channel function might be the result of additional modifiers of channel behaviour, such as other genetic variation and alterations in transcription, RNA processing, translation, post-translational modifications, and protein degradation. Consideration of these modifiers might help to improve genotype-phenotype correlations and lead to new therapeutic strategies.

Caveolin and cavin family members: dual roles in cancer

Caveolae are specialized plasma membrane subdomains with distinct lipid and protein compositions, which play an essential role in cell physiology through regulation of trafficking and signaling functions. The structure and functions of caveolae have been shown to require the proteins caveolins. Recently, members of the cavin protein family were found to be required, in concert with caveolins, for the formation and function of caveolae. Caveolins have a paradoxical role in the development of cancer formation. They have been involved in both tumor suppression and oncogenesis, depending on tumor type and progress stage. High expression of caveolins and cavins leads to inhibition of cancer-related pathways, such as growth factor signaling pathways. However, certain cancer cells that express caveolins and cavins have been shown to be more aggressive and metastatic because of their increased potential for anchorage-independent growth. Here, we will survey the functional roles of caveolins and of different cavin family members in cancer regulation.

The impact of APOL1, CAV1, and ABCB1 gene variants on outcomes in kidney transplantation: donor and recipient effects

Dramatic improvements have been seen in short-term kidney allograft survival over recent decades with introduction of more potent immunosuppressant medications and regimens. Unfortunately, improvements in long-term graft survival have lagged behind. The genomics revolution is providing new insights regarding the potential impact of kidney donor genotypes on long-term graft survival. Variation in the donor apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1), caveolin 1 (CAV1), and multi-drug resistance 1 encoding P-glycoprotein genes (ABCB1) are all associated with graft survival after kidney transplantation. Although the precise mechanisms whereby these donor gene variants confer risk for graft loss have yet to be determined, these findings provide novel opportunities for modifying interactive environmental factors and optimizing kidney allocation with the ultimate goal of improving long-term graft survival rates.

Endothelium in spots--high-content imaging of lipid rafts clusters in db/db mice

Lipid rafts (LRs) are dynamic, sterol- and sphingolipid-enriched nanodomains involved in the regulation of cellular functions and signal transduction, that upon stimuli, via (e.g. association of raft proteins and lipids), may cluster into domains of submicron or micron scale. Up to date, however, lipid raft clusters were observed only under artificially promoted conditions and their formation in vivo has not been confirmed. Using non-destructive approach involving Raman and Atomic Force Microscopy imaging we demonstrated the presence of clustered lipid rafts in endothelium of the aorta of the db/db mice that represent a reliable murine model of type 2 diabetes. The raft clusters in the aorta of diabetic mice were shown to occupy a considerably larger (about 10-fold) area of endothelial cells surface as compared to the control. Observation of pathology-promoted LRs confirms that the cellular increase of lipid content results in clustering of LRs. Clustering of LRs leads to the formation of assemblies with diameters up to 3 micrometers and increased lipid character. This massive clustering of lipid rafts in diabetes may trigger a signaling cascade leading to vascular inflammation.

Nitroglycerin tolerance in caveolin-1 deficient mice

Nitrate tolerance developed after persistent nitroglycerin (GTN) exposure limits its clinical utility. Previously, we have shown that the vasodilatory action of GTN is dependent on endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS/NOS3) activity. Caveolin-1 (Cav-1) is known to interact with NOS3 on the cytoplasmic side of cholesterol-enriched plasma membrane microdomains (caveolae) and to inhibit NOS3 activity. Loss of Cav-1 expression results in NOS3 hyperactivation and uncoupling, converting NOS3 into a source of superoxide radicals, peroxynitrite, and oxidative stress. Therefore, we hypothesized that nitrate tolerance induced by persistent GTN treatment results from NOS3 dysfunction and vascular toxicity. Exposure to GTN for 48-72 h resulted in nitrosation and depletion (>50%) of Cav-1, NOS3 uncoupling as measured by an increase in peroxynitrite production (>100%), and endothelial toxicity in cultured cells. In the Cav-1 deficient mice, NOS3 dysfunction was accompanied by GTN tolerance (>50% dilation inhibition at low GTN concentrations). In conclusion, GTN tolerance results from Cav-1 modification and depletion by GTN that causes persistent NOS3 activation and uncoupling, preventing it from participating in GTN-medicated vasodilation.

Endothelial mechanosensors: the gatekeepers of vascular homeostasis and adaptation under mechanical stress

Endothelial cells (ECs) not only serve as a barrier between blood and extravascular space to modulate the exchange of fluid, macromolecules and cells, but also play a critical role in regulation of vascular homeostasis and adaptation under mechanical stimulus via intrinsic mechanotransduction. Recently, with the dissection of microdomains responsible for cellular responsiveness to mechanical stimulus, a lot of mechanosensing molecules (mechanosensors) and pathways have been identified in ECs. In addition, there is growing evidence that endothelial mechanosensors not only serve as key vascular gatekeepers, but also contribute to the pathogenesis of various vascular disorders. This review focuses on recent findings in endothelial mechanosensors in subcellular microdomains and their roles in regulation of physiological and pathological functions under mechanical stress.

Caveolin-1 is required for kinase suppressor of Ras 1 (KSR1)-mediated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 activation, H-RasV12-induced senescence, and transformation

The molecular scaffold kinase suppressor of Ras 1 (KSR1) regulates the activation of the Raf/MEK/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signal transduction pathway. KSR1 disruption in mouse embryo fibroblasts (MEFs) abrogates growth factor-induced ERK activation, H-Ras(V12)-induced replicative senescence, and H-Ras(V12)-induced transformation. Caveolin-1 has been primarily described as a major component of the coating structure of caveolae, which can serve as a lipid binding adaptor protein and coordinates the assembly of Ras, Raf, MEK, and ERK. In this study, we show that KSR1 interacts with caveolin-1 and is responsible for MEK and ERK redistribution to caveolin-1-rich fractions. The interaction between KSR1 and caveolin-1 is essential for optimal activation of ERK as a KSR1 mutant unable to interact with caveolin-1 does not efficiently mediate growth factor-induced ERK activation at the early stages of pathway activation. Furthermore, abolishing the KSR1-caveolin-1 interaction increases growth factor demands to promote H-Ras(V12)-induced proliferation and has adverse effects on H-Ras(V12)-induced cellular senescence and transformation. These data show that caveolin-1 is necessary for optimal KSR1-dependent ERK activation by growth factors and oncogenic Ras.

Caveolin-1 expression in different types of psoriatic lesions: analysis of 66 cases

Background:

Caveolin-1 is a key structural and functional protein. Caveolin-1 is known to modulate multiple signal-transducing pathways involved in cell differentiation and proliferation. Psoriasis is viewed as a multifactorial pathology characterized by keratinocyte hyperproliferation and abnormal cell maturation.

Objectives:

To examine the expression of caveolin-1 in skin biopsies from normal subjects, patients, and subjects with the three respective isoforms of psoriasis (psoriasis vulgaris, localized pustular psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis). The expression level of caveolin-1 was compared among psoriasis vulgaris, localized pustular psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis, and normal subjects.

Materials and Methods:

Using immunohistochemical methods, caveolin-1 protein expression was assayed in four groups. An analysis was conducted on skin samples obtained from 22 normal subjects and 28 patients with psoriasis vulgaris, 22 patients with localized pustular psoriasis, and 16 patients with erythrodermic psoriasis. The statistical analysis of the scoring criteria reflecting the level of Caveolin-1 immunostaining between different groups was determined using the Mann–Whitney U-test.

Results:

In the normal skin, intense and consistent caveolin-1 staining was present in 22 cases. The Caveolin-1 protein was significantly reduced and showed very weak or absent staining within the tissues of psoriasis vulgaris, localized pustular psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis (respective P < 0.001). Caveolin-1 protein expression in psoriasis vulgaris was higher than that in localized pustular psoriasis and erythrodermic psoriasis (respective P < 0.05). Caveolin-1 protein expression was no different in localized pustular psoriasis and erythrodermic psoriasis (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

The finding of this study was consistent with a downregulation of Caveolin-1, which might serve as an etiological factor in the development of psoriasis vulgaris, localized pustular psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis. Further mechanistic investigations are required to prove that Caveolin-1 protein has the potential and may be a novel target for therapy of psoriasis vulgaris, localized pustular psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis.

Significance of caveolin-1 regulators in pancreatic cancer

Caveolin-1 is a scaffold protein on the cell membrane. As the main component of caveolae, caveolin-1 is involved in many biological processes that include substance uptake and transmembrane signaling. Many of these processes and thus caveolin-1 contribute to cell transformation, tumorigenesis, and metastasis. Of particular interest are the dual rolesof tumor suppressor and oncogene that caveolin-1 appear to play in different malignancies, including pancreatic cancer. Therefore, analyzing caveolin-1 regulators and understanding their mechanisms of actionis key to identifying novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools for pancreatic cancer. This review details the mechanisms of action of caveolin-1 regulators and the potential significance for pancreatic cancer treatment.

Caveolin-1 mediates Salmonella invasion via the regulation of SopE-dependent Rac1 activation and actin reorganization

Caveolar endocytosis has an important function in the cellular uptake of some bacterial toxins, viruses, and circulating proteins. However, the molecular machinery involved in caveolae-dependent bacterial endocytosis is poorly defined. In the present study, we identify a new molecular mechanism for the caveolin-1-dependent entry of Salmonella into host cells via the direct regulation of actin reorganization. In contrast to the interaction of caveolae with other pathogens, the caveolae did not form Salmonella-containing vesicles or endosomes in the host cells. Instead, the caveolae rapidly moved to the apical plasma membrane upon actin condensation during early invasion. Interestingly, the injected bacterial protein SopE interacted with Rac1 to regulate actin reorganization, and both proteins colocalized and directly interacted with caveolin-1 in caveolae during early invasion. After the complete internalization of Salmonella, SopE levels decreased both in the caveolae and in the host cytoplasm; Rac1 activity was also decreased. Downregulation of caveolin-1 by siRNA treatment led to reduction of Salmonella invasion compared with control siRNA-treated cells. These results suggest a new model in which caveolin-1 might be involved in Salmonella entry via its interaction with SopE and Rac1, leading to enhanced membrane ruffling for phagocytosis into host cells.

Cross-talk between EphA2 and BRaf/CRaf is a key determinant of response to Dasatinib

PURPOSE

EphA2 is an attractive therapeutic target because of its diverse roles in cancer growth and progression. Dasatinib is a multikinase inhibitor that targets EphA2 and other kinases. However, reliable predictive markers and a better understanding of the mechanisms of response to this agent are needed.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

The effects of dasatinib on human uterine cancer cell lines were examined using a series of in vitro experiments, including MTT, Western blot analysis, and plasmid transfection. In vivo, an orthotopic mouse model of uterine cancer was utilized to identify the biologic effects of dasatinib. Molecular markers for response prediction and the mechanisms relevant to response to dasatinib were identified by using reverse phase protein array (RPPA), immunoprecipitation, and double immunofluorescence staining.

RESULTS

We show that high levels of CAV-1, EphA2 phosphorylation at S897, and the status of PTEN are key determinants of dasatinib response in uterine carcinoma. A set of markers essential for dasatinib response was also identified and includes CRaf, pCRaf(S338), pMAPK(T202/Y204) (mitogen-activated protein kinase [MAPK] pathway), pS6(S240/244), p70S6k(T389) (mTOR pathway), and pAKT(S473). A novel mechanism for response was discovered whereby high expression level of CAV-1 at the plasma membrane disrupts the BRaf/CRaf heterodimer and thus inhibits the activation of MAPK pathway during dasatinib treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Our in vitro and in vivo results provide a new understanding of EphA2 targeting by dasatinib and identify key predictors of therapeutic response. These findings have implications for ongoing dasatinib-based clinical trials.

3 β-hydroxysteroid-Δ 24 reductase (DHCR24) protects neuronal cells from apoptotic cell death induced by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress

3β-Hydroxysteroid-Δ24 reductase (DHCR24) is an endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-localized multifunctional enzyme that possesses anti-apoptotic and cholesterol-synthesizing activities. Accumulating evidence suggests that ER stress is involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disease. In this study, we investigated whether DHCR24 may function as a neuroprotective protein under ER stress. Neuroblastoma N2A cells were infected with adenovirus expressing myc-tagged DHCR24 (Ad-DHCR24) or lacZ (Ad-lacZ, serving as a control) and subjected to ER-stress, induced with Tunicamycin (TM). Cells infected with Ad-DHCR24-myc were resistant to TM-induced apoptosis, and showed weaker level of caspase-12 activity. These cells also exhibited lower levels of Bip and CHOP proteins than Ad-LacZ-infected cells. Moreover, a stronger and rapid activation of PERK, and a prolonged activation of JNK and p38 were observed in Ad-LacZ–infected cells. The generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species from ER stress was also diminished by the overexpression of DHCR24. Additionally, intracellular cholesterol level was also elevated in the Ad-DHCR24-infected cells, accompanied by a well-organized formation of caveolae (cholesterol-rich microdomain) on the plasma membrane, and improved colocalization of caveolin-1 and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor. These results demonstrated for the first time that DHCR24 could protect neuronal cells from apoptosis induced by ER stress.

Role of caveolin-1 in atrial fibrillation as an anti-fibrotic signaling molecule in human atrial fibroblasts

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia in the general population; yet, the precise mechanisms resulting in AF are not fully understood. Caveolin-1 (Cav-1), the principal structural component of caveolae organelles in cardiac fibroblasts, is involved in several cardiovascular conditions; however, the study on its function in atrium, in particular, in AF, is still lacking. This report examines the hypothesis that Cav-1 confers an anti-AF effect by mediating atrial structural remodeling through its anti-fibrotic action. We evaluated the expression of Cav-1, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and fibrosis in atrial specimens of 13 patients with AF and 10 subjects with sinus rhythm, and found that the expression of Cav-1 was significantly downregulated, whereas TGF-β1 level, collagens I/III contents and atrial fibrosis were markedly increased, in AF. Western blot analysis demonstrated that treatment of human atrial fibroblasts (HAFs) with TGF-β1 resulted in a concentration- and time-dependent repression of Cav-1. Downregulation of Cav-1 with siRNA increased the TGF-β1-induced activation of Smad signal pathway and collagens production in HAFs. Furthermore, incubation of HAFs with the peptides derived from Cav-1 to achieve Cav-1 gain-of-function abolished the TGF-β1-induced production of collagens I/III and decreases of MMP-2/-9 expression. Therefore it was concluded that Cav-1 is an important anti-AF signaling mediator by conferring its anti-fibrotic effects in atrium.

Molecular targets of HPV oncoproteins: potential biomarkers for cervical carcinogenesis

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women worldwide and is responsible for 275,000 deaths each year. Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) is an essential factor for the development of cervical cancer. Although the process is not fully understood, molecular mechanisms caused by HPV infection are necessary for its development and reveal a large number of potential biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis. These molecules are host genes and/or proteins, and cellular microRNAs involved in cell cycle regulation that result from disturbed expression of HR-HPV E5, E6 and E7 oncoproteins. One of the current challenges in medicine is to discover potent biomarkers that can correctly diagnose cervical premalignant lesions and standardize clinical management. Currently, studies are showing that some of these molecules are potential biomarkers of cervical carcinogenesis, and it is possible to carry out a more accurate diagnosis and provide more appropriate follow-up treatment for women with cervical dysplasia. In this paper, we review recent research studies on cell cycle molecules deregulated by HPV infections, as well as their potential use for cervical cancer screening.

Caveolin-1 Tyr14 phosphorylation induces interaction with TLR4 in endothelial cells and mediates MyD88-dependent signaling and sepsis-induced lung inflammation

Activation of TLR4 by the endotoxin LPS is a critical event in the pathogenesis of Gram-negative sepsis. Caveolin-1, the signaling protein associated with caveolae, is implicated in regulating the lung inflammatory response to LPS; however, the mechanism is not understood. In this study, we investigated the role of caveolin-1 in regulating TLR4 signaling in endothelial cells. We observed that LPS interaction with CD14 in endothelial cells induced Src-dependent caveolin-1 phosphorylation at Tyr(14). Using a TLR4-MD2-CD14-transfected HEK-293 cell line and caveolin-1-deficient (cav-1(-/-)) mouse lung microvascular endothelial cells, we demonstrated that caveolin-1 phosphorylation at Tyr(14) following LPS exposure induced caveolin-1 and TLR4 interaction and, thereby, TLR4 activation of MyD88, leading to NF-κB activation and generation of proinflammatory cytokines. Exogenous expression of phosphorylation-deficient Y14F caveolin-1 mutant in cav-1(-/-) mouse pulmonary vasculature rendered the mice resistant to LPS compared with reintroduction of wild-type caveolin-1. Thus, caveolin-1 Y14 phosphorylation was required for the interaction with TLR4 and activation of TLR4-MyD88 signaling and sepsis-induced lung inflammation. Inhibiting caveolin-1 Tyr(14) phosphorylation and resultant inactivation of TLR4 signaling in pulmonary vascular endothelial cells represent a novel strategy for preventing sepsis-induced lung inflammation and injury.

Post-translational regulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase in vascular endothelium

Nitric oxide (NO) is a short-lived gaseous signaling molecule. In blood vessels, it is synthesized in a dynamic fashion by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and influences vascular function via two distinct mechanisms, the activation of soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-dependent signaling and the S-nitrosylation of proteins with reactive thiols (S-nitrosylation). The regulation of eNOS activity and NO bioavailability is critical to maintain blood vessel function. The activity of eNOS and ability to generate NO is regulated at the transcriptional, posttranscriptional, and posttranslational levels. Post-translational modifications acutely impact eNOS activity and dysregulation of these mechanisms compromise eNOS activity and foster the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This review will intergrate past and current literature on the post-translational modifications of eNOS in both health and disease.

The role of caveolae in the pathophysiology of lung diseases

Caveolae are flask-shaped plasma membrane invaginations formed by constitutive caveolin proteins and regulatory cavin proteins. Caveolae harbor a range of signaling components such as receptors, ion channels and regulatory molecules. There is now increasing evidence that caveolins and cavins play an important role in a variety of diseases. However, the mechanisms by which these caveolar proteins affect lung health and disease are still under investigation, with emerging data suggesting complex roles in disease pathophysiology. This review summarizes the current state of understanding of how caveolar proteins contribute to lung structure and function and how their altered expression and/or function can influence lung diseases.

Caveolin-1 Tyr14 phosphorylation induces interaction with TLR4 in endothelial cells and mediates MyD88-dependent signaling and sepsis-induced lung inflammation

Activation of TLR4 by the endotoxin LPS is a critical event in the pathogenesis of Gram-negative sepsis. Caveolin-1, the signaling protein associated with caveolae, is implicated in regulating the lung inflammatory response to LPS; however, the mechanism is not understood. In this study, we investigated the role of caveolin-1 in regulating TLR4 signaling in endothelial cells. We observed that LPS interaction with CD14 in endothelial cells induced Src-dependent caveolin-1 phosphorylation at Tyr(14). Using a TLR4-MD2-CD14-transfected HEK-293 cell line and caveolin-1-deficient (cav-1(-/-)) mouse lung microvascular endothelial cells, we demonstrated that caveolin-1 phosphorylation at Tyr(14) following LPS exposure induced caveolin-1 and TLR4 interaction and, thereby, TLR4 activation of MyD88, leading to NF-κB activation and generation of proinflammatory cytokines. Exogenous expression of phosphorylation-deficient Y14F caveolin-1 mutant in cav-1(-/-) mouse pulmonary vasculature rendered the mice resistant to LPS compared with reintroduction of wild-type caveolin-1. Thus, caveolin-1 Y14 phosphorylation was required for the interaction with TLR4 and activation of TLR4-MyD88 signaling and sepsis-induced lung inflammation. Inhibiting caveolin-1 Tyr(14) phosphorylation and resultant inactivation of TLR4 signaling in pulmonary vascular endothelial cells represent a novel strategy for preventing sepsis-induced lung inflammation and injury.

The caveolin-1 scaffolding domain peptide decreases phosphatidylglycerol levels and inhibits calcium-induced differentiation in mouse keratinocytes

Phospholipase D2 (PLD2) has been found localized in low-density caveolin-rich membrane microdomains. Our previous study suggested that PLD2 and aquaporin 3 (AQP3) interact in these domains to inhibit keratinocyte proliferation and promote differentiation by cooperating to produce phosphatidylglycerol. To examine the effect of membrane microdomain localization on the PLD2/AQP3 signaling module and keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation, we treated mouse keratinocytes with 3 µM cell-permeable caveolin-1 scaffolding domain peptide or a negative control peptide and stimulated cell differentiation using a moderately elevated extracellular calcium concentration (125 uM) to maximally promote differentiation and phosphatidylglycerol production. Cell proliferation, differentiation, total PLD activity, phosphatidylglycerol levels, and AQP3 activity were monitored. The caveolin-1 scaffolding domain peptide itself had no effect on phosphatidylglycerol levels or keratinocyte proliferation or differentiation but prevented the changes induced by a moderately elevated calcium concentration, whereas a negative control did not. The caveolin-1 scaffolding domain peptide had little effect on total PLD activity or glycerol uptake (AQP3 activity). We conclude that the caveolin-1 scaffolding domain peptide disrupts the functional association between AQP3 and PLD2 and prevents both the inhibited proliferation and the stimulated differentiation in response to elevated extracellular calcium levels. The interaction of caveolin-1 and PLD2 is indirect (i.e., lipid mediated); together with the proliferation-promoting effects of caveolin-1 knockout on epidermal keratinocytes, we propose that the caveolin-1 scaffolding domain pepetide exerts a dominant-negative effect on caveolin-1 to alter lipid rafts in these cells.

Surface charges of the membrane crucially affect regulation of Na,K-ATPase by phospholemman (FXYD1)

The human α1/His10-β1 isoform of Na,K-ATPase has been reconstituted as a complex with and without FXYD1 into proteoliposomes of various lipid compositions in order to study the effect of the regulatory subunit on the half-saturating Na⁺ concentration (K(½)) of Na⁺ ions for activation of the ion pump. It has been shown that the fraction of negatively charged lipid in the bilayer crucially affects the regulatory properties. At low concentrations of the negatively charged lipid DOPS (<10 %), FXYD1 increases K(½) of Na⁺ ions for activation of the ion pump. Phosphorylation of FXYD1 by protein kinase A at Ser68 abrogates this effect. Conversely, for proteoliposomes made with high concentrations of DOPS (>10 %), little or no effect of FXYD1 on the K(½) of Na⁺ ions is observed. Depending on ionic strength and lipid composition of the proteoliposomes, FXYD1 can alter the K(½) of Na⁺ ions by up to twofold. We propose possible molecular mechanisms to explain the regulatory effects of FXYD1 and the influence of charged lipid and protein phosphorylation. In particular, the positively charged C-terminal helix of FXYD1 appears to be highly mobile and may interact with the cytoplasmic N domain of the α-subunit, the interaction being strongly affected by phosphorylation at Ser68 and the surface charge of the membrane.

Autoimmunoreactive IgGs against cardiac lipid raft-associated proteins in patients with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome

Lipid rafts are specialized plasma membrane microdomains that serve as platforms for integrating cellular signal transductions. We have recently reported that autoantibodies against cardiac membrane proteins are present in patients with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). In this study, we examined the presence of autoimmunoreactive IgGs against lipid raft proteins in these patients. IgGs were purified from the sera of 10 patients and 7 normal controls. Cardiac lipid raft preparations were isolated from normal human heart tissue. The lipid raft-associated proteins were resolved by 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis and immunoblotted against IgGs from each subject. Protein spots that reacted specifically with patient IgGs were identified by nano-liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry. Thirty-four such protein spots, and 72 unique proteins were identified. The targets of autoimmunoreactive IgGs include proteins associated with caveolae structure, adrenergic signaling, calcium signaling, cytostructures, chaperone and energy metabolism. Multiple pathways were involved including those that regulate caveolae-mediated signaling, oxidative phosphorylation, fatty acid metabolism, protein ubiquitination, and cardiac β-adrenergic signaling. Our results suggest that cardiac lipid raft-associated proteins are targets of autoimmunoreactive IgGs from patients with POTS. Autoimmunity may play a role in the pathogenesis of POTS.