Mechanisms by which carbohydrates regulate expression of genes for glycolytic and lipogenic enzymes

Carbohydrate responsive element binding protein and lipid homeostasis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The liver is responsible for the conversion of excess dietary carbohydrates into fatty acids, through de-novo lipogenesis. A clear understanding of the control of lipogenesis is crucial since excess fatty acids leads to hepatic steatosis and associated metabolic diseases. The transcription factor sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c and the nuclear receptor liver X receptor are implicated in the insulin-mediated induction of lipogenic genes. Recently, the transcription factor carbohydrate responsive element binding protein has emerged as the hepatic glucose sensor required for the induction of lipogenic genes in response to glucose.

RECENT FINDINGS

We have recently demonstrated that the liver-specific inhibition of carbohydrate responsive element binding protein decreases the rate of lipogenesis and improves hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance in obese ob/ob mice. These results suggest that carbohydrate responsive element binding protein is a potential therapeutic target, and an accurate knowledge of the mechanisms involved in regulating its expression or activation is needed for the development of pharmacological approaches for the treatment of metabolic diseases. Recent studies report that carbohydrate responsive element binding protein is regulated at the transcriptional level by glucose and by liver X receptor but that posttranslational modifications are needed for carbohydrate responsive element binding protein to become active.

SUMMARY

Here we review some of the studies that provided a better understanding of the role and regulation of the newly identified transcription factor carbohydrate responsive element binding protein in lipid homeostasis.

Dual effect of the adapter growth factor receptor-bound protein 14 (grb14) on insulin action in primary hepatocytes

Tight control of insulin action in liver is a crucial determinant for the regulation of energy homeostasis. Growth factor receptor-bound protein 14 (Grb14) is a molecular adapter, highly expressed in liver, which binds to the activated insulin receptor and inhibits its tyrosine kinase activity. The physiological role of Grb14 in liver metabolism was unexplored. In this study we used RNA interference to investigate the consequences of Grb14 decrease on insulin-regulated intracellular signaling, and on glucose and lipid metabolism in mouse primary cultured hepatocytes. In Grb14-depleted hepatocytes, insulin-induced phosphorylation of Akt, and of its substrates glycogen synthase kinase 3 and fork-head box protein 1, was increased. These effects on insulin signaling are in agreement with the selective inhibitory effect of Grb14 on the receptor kinase. However, the metabolic and genic effects of insulin were differentially regulated after Grb14 down-regulation. Indeed, the insulin-mediated inhibition of hepatic glucose production and gluconeogenic gene expression was slightly increased. Surprisingly, despite the improved Akt pathway, the induction by insulin of sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c maturation was totally blunted. As a result, in the absence of Grb14, glycogen synthesis as well as glycolytic and lipogenic gene expression were not responsive to the stimulatory effect of insulin. This study provides evidence that Grb14 exerts a dual role on the regulation by insulin of hepatic metabolism. It inhibits insulin receptor catalytic activity, and acts also at a more distal step, i.e. sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c maturation, which effect is predominant under short-term inhibition of Grb14 expression.

Identification and function of phosphorylation in the glucose-regulated transcription factor ChREBP

In the liver, induction of genes encoding enzymes involved in de novo lipogenesis occurs in response to increased glucose metabolism. ChREBP (carbohydrate-response-element-binding protein) is a basic helix-loop-helix/leucine zipper transcription factor that regulates expression of these genes. To evaluate the potential role of ChREBP phosphorylation in its regulation, we used MS to identify modified residues. In the present paper, we report the detection of multiple phosphorylation sites of ChREBP expressed in hepatocytes, several of which are only observed under high-glucose conditions. Mutation of each of these serine/threonine residues of ChREBP did not alter its ability to respond to glucose. However, mutation of five N-terminal phosphoacceptor sites resulted in a major decrease in activity under high-glucose conditions. These phosphorylated residues are located within a region of ChREBP (amino acids 1-197) that is critical for glucose regulation. Mutation of Ser(56) within this region to an aspartate residue resulted in increased nuclear accumulation and activity under high-glucose conditions. Together, these data suggest that ChREBP activity is regulated by complex multisite phosphorylation patterns involving its N-terminal regulatory region.

Metabolic regulation of manganese superoxide dismutase expression via essential amino acid deprivation

Organisms respond to available nutrient levels by rapidly adjusting metabolic flux, in part through changes in gene expression. A consequence of adaptations in metabolic rate is the production of mitochondria-derived reactive oxygen species. Therefore, we hypothesized that nutrient sensing could regulate the synthesis of the primary defense of the cell against superoxide radicals, manganese superoxide dismutase. Our data establish a novel nutrient-sensing pathway for manganese superoxide dismutase expression mediated through essential amino acid depletion concurrent with an increase in cellular viability. Most relevantly, our results are divergent from current mechanisms governing amino acid-dependent gene regulation. This pathway requires the presence of glutamine, signaling via the tricarboxylic acid cycle/electron transport chain, an intact mitochondrial membrane potential, and the activity of both the MEK/ERK and mammalian target of rapamycin kinases. Our results provide evidence for convergence of metabolic cues with nutrient control of antioxidant gene regulation, revealing a potential signaling strategy that impacts free radical-mediated mutations with implications in cancer and aging.

Expression and nutritional regulation of lipogenic genes in the ruminant lactating mammary gland

The effect of nutrition on milk fat yield and composition has largely been investigated in cows and goats, with some differences for fatty acid (FA) composition responses and marked species differences in milk fat yield response. Recently, the characterization of lipogenic genes in ruminant species allowed in vivo studies focused on the effect of nutrition on mammary expression of these genes, in cows (mainly fed milk fat-depressing diets) and goats (fed lipid-supplemented diets). These few studies demonstrated some similarities in the regulation of gene expression between the two species, although the responses were not always in agreement with milk FA secretion responses. A central role for trans-10 C18:1 and trans-10, cis-12 CLA as regulators of milk fat synthesis has been proposed. However, trans-10 C18:1 does not directly control milk fat synthesis in cows, despite the fact that it largely responds to dietary factors, with its concentration being negatively correlated with milk fat yield response in cows and, to a lesser extent, in goats. Milk trans-10, cis-12 CLA is often correlated with milk fat depression in cows but not in goats and, when postruminally infused, acts as an inhibitor of the expression of key lipogenic genes in cows. Recent evidence has also proven the inhibitory effect of the trans-9, cis-11 CLA isomer. The molecular mechanisms by which nutrients regulate lipogenic gene expression have yet to be well identified, but a central role for SREBP-1 has been outlined as mediator of FA effects, whereas the roles of PPARs and STAT5 need to be determined. It is expected that the development of in vitro functional systems for lipid synthesis and secretion will allow future progress toward (1) the identification of the inhibitors and activators of fat synthesis, (2) the knowledge of cellular mechanisms, and (3) the understanding of differences between ruminant species.

Role of Sp1 and SREBP-1a in the insulin-mediated regulation of glucokinase transcription in the liver of gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata)

Insulin induction of glucokinase (GCK) transcription in the liver is essential for maintaining glucose homeostasis. To study the molecular mechanism underlying the regulation of hepatic GCK expression in the carnivorous fish gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata), we analysed the role of sterol regulatory element binding protein-1a (SREBP-1a) and specificity protein (Sp) 1 in insulin-dependent GCK transcription. Transient transfection experiments performed in HepG2 cells and electrophoretic mobility shift assays allowed us to identify a cis-element in the proximal region of GCK promoter implicated in transactivation by SREBP-1a. Consistently, mutations in the SRE binding site completely abolished the enhancing effect of SREBP-1a. These results and previous findings suggest that SREBP-1a plays a role in the transcriptional regulation of key enzymes in glycolysis-gluconeogenesis. Since SREBP-1a and Sp1 may mediate insulin action on S. aurata GCK transcription, we analysed the effect of insulin on HepG2 cells transfected with GCK promoter reporter constructs carrying intact or mutated SRE or Sp boxes. Insulin transactivated GCK irrespective of the presence of an intact or mutated SRE box. However, insulin failed to induce GCK transcription when using reporter constructs that had either a mutated Sp site or no Sp site. Our findings indicate that Sp1, rather than SREBP-1a, mediates the insulin-dependent induction of S. aurata GCK.

Metabolic transformation of rabbit skeletal muscle cells in primary culture in response to low glucose

We have investigated the mechanism of the changes in the profile of metabolic enzyme expression that occur in association with fast-to-slow transformation of rabbit skeletal muscle. The hypotheses assessed are: do 1) lowered intracellular ATP concentration or 2) reduction of the muscular glycogen stores act as triggers of metabolic transformation? We find that 3 days of decreased cytosolic ATP content have no impact on the investigated metabolic markers, whereas incubation of the cells with little or no glucose leads to decreases in glycogen in conjunction with decreases in glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) promoter activity, GAPDH mRNA and specific GAPDH enzyme activity (indicators of the anaerobic glycolytic pathway), and furthermore to increases in mitochondrial acetoacetyl-CoA thiolase (MAT, also known as ACAT) promoter activity, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1alpha (PGC-1alpha) expression and citrate synthase (CS) specific enzyme activity (all indicators of oxidative metabolic pathways). The AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity under these conditions is reduced compared to controls. In experiments with two inhibitors of glycogen degradation we show that the observed metabolic transformation caused by low glucose takes place even if intracellular glycogen content is high. These findings for the first time provide evidence that metabolic adaptation of skeletal muscle cells from rabbit in primary culture can be induced not only by elevation of intracellular calcium concentration or by a rise of AMPK activity, but also by reduction of glucose supply. Contrary to expectations, neither an increase in phospho-AMPK nor a reduction of muscular glycogen content are crucial events in the glucose-dependent induction of metabolic transformation in the muscle cell culture system studied.

Sugar sensing by enterocytes combines polarity, membrane bound detectors and sugar metabolism

Sugar consumption and subsequent sugar metabolism are known to regulate the expression of genes involved in intestinal sugar absorption and delivery. Here we investigate the hypothesis that sugar-sensing detectors in membranes facing the intestinal lumen or the bloodstream can also modulate intestinal sugar absorption. We used wild-type and GLUT2-null mice, to show that dietary sugars stimulate the expression of sucrase-isomaltase (SI) and L-pyruvate kinase (L-PK) by GLUT2-dependent mechanisms, whereas the expression of GLUT5 and SGLT1, did not rely on the presence of GLUT2. By providing sugar metabolites, sugar transporters, including GLUT2, fuelled a sensing pathway. In Caco2/TC7 enterocytes, we could disconnect the sensing triggered by detector from that produced by metabolism, and found that GLUT2 generated a metabolism-independent pathway to stimulate the expression of SI and L-PK. In cultured enterocytes, both apical and basolateral fructose could increase the expression of GLUT5, conversely, basolateral sugar administration could stimulate the expression of GLUT2. Finally, we located the sweet-taste receptors T1R3 and T1R2 in plasma membranes, and we measured their cognate G alpha Gustducin mRNA levels. Furthermore, we showed that a T1R3 inhibitor altered the fructose-induced expression of SGLT1, GLUT5, and L-PK. Intestinal gene expression is thus controlled by a combination of at least three sugar-signaling pathways triggered by sugar metabolites and membrane sugar receptors that, according to membrane location, determine sugar-sensing polarity. This provides a rationale for how intestine adapts sugar delivery to blood and dietary sugar provision.

Loss of sugar detection by GLUT2 affects glucose homeostasis in mice

Background

Mammals must sense the amount of sugar available to them and respond appropriately. For many years attention has focused on intracellular glucose sensing derived from glucose metabolism. Here, we studied the detection of extracellular glucose concentrations in vivo by invalidating the transduction pathway downstream from the transporter-detector GLUT2 and measured the physiological impact of this pathway.

Methodology/Principal Findings

We produced mice that ubiquitously express the largest cytoplasmic loop of GLUT2, blocking glucose-mediated gene expression in vitro without affecting glucose metabolism. Impairment of GLUT2-mediated sugar detection transiently protected transgenic mice against starvation and streptozotocin-induced diabetes, suggesting that both low- and high-glucose concentrations were not detected. Transgenic mice favored lipid oxidation, and oral glucose was slowly cleared from blood due to low insulin production, despite massive urinary glucose excretion. Kidney adaptation was characterized by a lower rate of glucose reabsorption, whereas pancreatic adaptation was associated with a larger number of small islets.

Conclusions/Significance

Molecular invalidation of sugar sensing in GLUT2-loop transgenic mice changed multiple aspects of glucose homeostasis, highlighting by a top-down approach, the role of membrane glucose receptors as potential therapeutic targets.

ChREBP, a transcriptional regulator of glucose and lipid metabolism

Dysregulations in hepatic lipid synthesis are often associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes, and therefore a perfect understanding of the regulation of this metabolic pathway appears essential to identify potential therapeutic targets. Recently, the transcription factor ChREBP (carbohydrate-responsive element-binding protein) has emerged as a major mediator of glucose action on lipogenic gene expression and as a key determinant of lipid synthesis in vivo. Indeed, liver-specific inhibition of ChREBP improves hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance in obese ob/ob mice. Since ChREBP cellular localization is a determinant of its functional activity, a better knowledge of the mechanisms involved in regulating its nucleo-cytoplasmic shuttling and/or its post-translational activation is crucial in both physiology and physiopathology. Here, we review some of the studies that have begun to elucidate the regulation and function of this key transcription factor in liver.

Expression of the glucokinase gene in mule duck liver and glucokinase activities in chicken and mule duck livers

The presence of glucokinase (GK), a critical enzyme controlling glucose homeostasis, particularly liver glucose utilization in mammals, has long been a matter of debate in avian species because a number of investigators have failed to detect GK activity in the livers of chickens and several other avian species. In this study, we cloned a partial GK cDNA from mule duck livers and measured GK-like activity in the livers of mule ducks and broiler chickens under 2 nutritional states. Liver samples from 5-wk-old meal-fed male broiler chickens (Ross) were obtained from overnight-fasted chickens (BC) and 5 h after an oral saccharose load (6 mL/kg of BW of a 50% saccharose solution) given just before the meal (BS). Liver samples from 15-wk-old mule ducks were collected after an overnight fast (DC) and 12 h after the last overfeeding meal (DO). A partial cDNA ( approximately 600 bp) was obtained from duck livers. It presented 99% identity with chicken partial GK cDNA (gi 44888789) and 82% identity with human GK (gi 15967158). Chicken liver weights represented 1.8 and 3.3% of BW, respectively, for BC and BS (n = 8, P < 0.05). Glucokinase and low-Michaelis constant hexokinase (HK) activity levels were similar in BC (respectively, 0.88 and 1.00 mU/mg of protein). In response to the meal load, GK activity increased significantly (+57%), whereas HK decreased (-46%) in BS. Duck liver weights represented 1.4 and 7.6% of BW, respectively, for DC and DO (n = 8, P < 0.05). In DC livers, GK activity was significantly higher than HK activity (respectively, 1.76 and 0.63 mU/mg of protein). Both activities were significantly increased in DO (2 times, n = 8, P < 0.05). In conclusion, GK is present in ducks as well as chickens, and it is nutritionally regulated in avian species as well as in mammals. Further work will determine whether the higher liver GK activity and GK:HK ratio in DC compared with BC is related to age or BW or linked to the high lipogenic capacity of the duck liver.

Proposed regulation of gene expression by glucose in rodent heart

Background

During pressure overload-induced hypertrophy, unloading-induced atrophy, and diabetes mellitus, the heart induces ‘fetal’ genes (e.g. myosin heavy chain β; mhcβ).

Hypothesis

We propose that altered glucose homeostasis within the cardiomyocyte acts as a central mechanism for the regulation of gene expression in response to environmental stresses. The evidence is as follows.

Methods and Results

Forced glucose uptake both ex vivo and in vivo results in mhc isoform switching. Restricting dietary glucose prevents mhc isoform switching in hearts of both GLUT1-Tg mice and rats subjected to pressure overload-induced hypertrophy. Thus, glucose availability correlates with mhc isoform switching under all conditions investigated. A potential mechanism by which glucose affects gene expression is through O-linked glycosylation of specific transcription factors. Glutamine:fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase (GFAT) catalyzes the flux generating step in UDP-N-acetylglucosamine biosynthesis, the rate determining metabolite in protein glycosylation. Ascending aortic constriction increased intracellular levels of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine, and the expression of gfat2, but not gfat1, in the rat heart.

Conclusions

Collectively, the results strongly suggest glucose-regulated gene expression in the heart, and the involvement of glucose metabolites in isoform switching of sarcomeric proteins characteristic for the fetal gene program.

Carbohydrate restriction alters hepatic cholesterol metabolism in guinea pigs fed a hypercholesterolemic diet

The current study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of carbohydrate restriction on hepatic cholesterol metabolism in guinea pigs fed a hypercholesterolemic diet. Hartley male guinea pigs (n = 10 per group) were fed 1 of 3 diets: a diet with a percent energy distribution of 42:23:35 carbohydrate:protein:fat and 0.04% cholesterol (control), a diet with the same macronutrient distribution but with 0.25% cholesterol (HChol), or a carbohydrate-restricted (CR) diet with a percent energy distribution of 11:30:59 carbohydrate:protein:fat and 0.25% cholesterol for 12 wk. There was more accumulation of hepatic cholesterol and triglycerides as well as lower 3-hydroxy-3-methyl glutaryl-CoA reductase messenger RNA abundance in guinea pigs fed the high-cholesterol diets (HChol and CR) (P < 0.01). Guinea pigs fed the CR diet had lower concentrations of hepatic total cholesterol and cholesteryl ester than those fed the HChol diet (P < 0.05). There was no diet effect on hepatic LDL receptor expression. Hepatic acyl CoA cholesteryl acyltransferase (ACAT) activity was lowest in guinea pigs fed the low-cholesterol diet (9.7 +/- 4.8 pmol.min(-1).mg(-1)), intermediate in those fed the CR diet (37.3 +/- 12.4 pmol.min(-1).mg protein(-1)), and highest in guinea pigs fed the HChol diet (55.9 +/- 11.2 pmol.min(-1).mg(-1)). ACAT activity was significantly correlated with hepatic cholesterol (r = 0.715; P < 0.01) and LDL cholesterol (r = 0.59; P < 0.01) for all dietary groups, suggesting a major role of this enzyme in hepatic cholesterol homeostasis and in lipoprotein concentrations. These results indicate that dietary cholesterol increases hepatic lipid accumulation and affects hepatic cholesterol homeostasis. Carbohydrate restriction in the presence of high cholesterol is associated with lower hepatic ACAT activity and an attenuation of hepatic cholesterol accumulation.

Influence of ruminal and postruminal carbohydrate infusion on visceral organ mass and adipose tissue accretion in growing beef steers1

Forty crossbred beef steers (243 +/- 2 kg of BW) with ruminal and abomasal infusion catheters were used to test 2 hypotheses: 1) visceral mass is responsive to energy input and site of carbohydrate (CHO) infusion and 2) rate and site of adipose accretion are dependent on site of CHO infusion and complexity. Treatments included a pelleted, forage-based, basal diet fed at 161 (LI) or 214 (HI) kcal of ME/(kg of BW(0.75) x d), LI plus ruminal (R-SH) or abomasal (A-SH) infusion of a partial starch hydrolysate (SH), and LI plus abomasal infusion of glucose (A-G). The basal diet was fed in 12 equal portions daily at 2-h intervals, with starch and glucose infused over a 22-h period at rates of 12.6 and 14.4 g/(kg of BW(0.75) x d). After 35 d of infusion, steers were slaughtered; and visceral organ and adipose mass, subcutaneous adipose thickness over the 5th and 12th rib, and LM intramuscular fat concentration were determined. Total intake energy (IE) increased (P = 0.0001) with ME intake. Dietary IE was similar between LI and CHO treatments, but total IE increased (P < 0.001) with CHO infusion. Greater dietary ME intake and CHO infusion increased or tended (P < or = 0.09) to increase final BW and HCW. As a percentage of empty BW, total stomach complex, rumen, omasum, liver, pancreas, and kidney weights were greater (P < or = 0.05) for HI vs. LI. Stomach complex, rumen, pancreas, and kidney weights as a percentage of empty BW were greater (P < or = 0.05) for R-SH vs. A-SH. Compared with ASH, A-G increased (P < or = 0.02) total and mucosal weights from the 10-cm sections of the ileum. Increases in rumen mass were associated with no change or an increase in rumen total and mucosal DNA concentrations. Greater dietary ME tended (P = 0.06) to increase subcutaneous fat thickness at the 5th rib but did not affect alimentary adipose accretion on an empty BW basis. Omental and total alimentary adipose weights were increased (P < or = 0.04) by A-G compared with A-SH. Although SH infusion did not alter adiposity, there was a consistent numerical pattern in total alimentary and subcutaneous fat depots with CHO infusion (A-G > ASH > R-SH). Our findings demonstrate that increasing ruminal CHO supply results in a disproportionate increase in rumen mass, whereas increasing small intestinal CHO supply does not alter gastrointestinal organ mass. Small intestinal energy in the form of glucose resulted in greater adipose accretion, particularly the omental depot.

Influence of abomasal carbohydrates on subcutaneous, omental, and mesenteric adipose lipogenic and lipolytic rates in growing beef steers

To determine the response to alteration in site and form of carbohydrate delivery to the digestive tract, in vitro rates of lipogenesis and lipolysis in mesenteric (MESA), omental (OMA), and subcutaneous (SQA) adipose depots were compared. Forty crossbred beef steers (243 +/- 2 kg of BW) were fed 161 (LI) or 214 (HI) kcal of ME/(kg of BW(0.75) x d) or they were fed LI and infused for 35 d into the rumen (R) or abomasum (A) with starch hydrolysate (SH) or into the abomasum with glucose (G). Jugular blood samples were collected, steers were slaughtered, and adipose depots were sampled and prepared for assessment of lipogenesis and lipolysis in vitro. Blood concentrations of glucagon were increased (P = 0.04) in HI-H2O compared with LI-H2O steers, whereas A-SH tended to increase (P = 0.08) circulating IGF-I relative to R-SH, and A-G tended to have elevated (P = 0.09) T3 compared with A-SH. Lipolysis, as assessed by NEFA release, was unaffected by treatment. Glycerol release by the MESA and SQA was increased or tended to be increased (P < or = 0.08) in HI-H2O compared with LI-H2O steers. In A-G compared with A-SH steers, glycerol release from OMA increased (P = 0.008) and from SQA tended to be increased (P = 0.08). Acetate incorporation into total neutral lipids (TNL) increased or tended to increase with ME intake and SH infusion (P < or = 0.09) across all depots. Rates of acetate incorporation into fatty acids (FA) also increased or tended to be increased (P < or = 0.1) by SH infusion across all depots, but only that of SQA was increased with ME intake (HI-H2O vs. LI-H2O; P = 0.02). Rates of acetate incorporation into FA and TNL in MESA were increased (P < or = 0.03) by A-SH compared with R-SH, but site of SH infusion did not affect the rates in SQA or OMA. Glucose incorporation into TNL for MESA and SQA increased or tended to be increased (P < or = 0.1) by dietary and infused energy, whereas for OMA they tended to be increased (P = 0.1) only by SH infusion. In contrast, glucose incorporation into FA was unaffected by energy supply but tended to be increased (P = 0.07) by SH in MESA and tended to be greater (P = 0.08) for A-G than A-SH in OMA. The general across-depot pattern of acetate incorporation rate into FA and TNL was SQA > OMA > MESA, whereas, for glucose incorporation, rates across depots were equivalent. These data provide evidence that the postruminal supply of energy, specifically carbohydrate, stimulates lipogenesis from acetate and glucose and is more pronounced in abdominal depots relative to the subcutaneous depot.

High dietary sodium intake increases white adipose tissue mass and plasma leptin in rats

OBJECTIVE

Salt restriction has been reported to increase white adipose tissue (WAT) mass in rodents. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of different sodium content diets on the lipogenic and lipolytic activities of WAT.

RESEARCH METHODS AND PROCEDURES

Male Wistar rats were fed on normal-sodium (NS; 0.5% Na(+)), high-sodium (HS; 3.12% Na(+)), or low-sodium (LS; 0.06% Na(+)) diets for 3, 6, and 9 weeks after weaning. Blood pressure (BP) was measured using a computerized tail-cuff system. At the end of each period, rats were killed and blood samples were collected for leptin determinations. The WAT from abdominal and inguinal subcutaneous (SC), periepididymal (PE) and retroperitoneal (RP) depots was weighed and processed for adipocyte isolation, rate measurement of lipolysis and d-[U-(14)C]-glucose incorporation into lipids, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) and malic enzyme activity evaluation, and determination of G6PDH and leptin mRNA expression.

RESULTS

After 6 weeks, HS diet significantly increased BP; SC, PE, and RP WAT masses; PE adipocyte size; plasma leptin concentration; G6PDH activity in SC WAT; and PE depots and malic activity only in SC WAT. The leptin levels correlated positively with WAT masses and adipocyte size. An increase in the basal and isoproterenol-stimulated lipolysis and in the ability to incorporate glucose into lipids was observed in isolated adipocytes from HS rats.

DISCUSSION

HS diet induced higher adiposity characterized by high plasma leptin concentration and adipocyte hypertrophy, probably due to an increased lipogenic capacity of WAT.

Tripeptides of RS1 (RSC1A1) inhibit a monosaccharide-dependent exocytotic pathway of Na+-D-glucose cotransporter SGLT1 with high affinity

The human gene RSC1A1 codes for a 67-kDa protein named RS1 that mediates transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of Na(+)-D-glucose cotransporter SGLT1. The post-transcriptional regulation occurs at the trans-Golgi network (TGN). We identified two tripeptides in human RS1 (Gln-Cys-Pro (QCP) and Gln-Ser-Pro (QSP)) that induce posttranscriptional down-regulation of SGLT1 at the TGN leading to 40-50% reduction of SGLT1 in plasma membrane. For effective intracellular concentrations IC(50) values of 2.0 nM (QCP) and 0.16 nm (QSP) were estimated. Down-regulation of SGLT1 by tripeptides was attenuated by intracellular monosaccharides including non-metabolized methyl-alpha-D-glucopyranoside and 2-deoxyglucose. In small intestine post-transcriptional regulation of SGLT1 may contribute to glucose-dependent regulation of liver metabolism and intestinal mobility. QCP and QSP are transported by the H(+)-peptide cotransporter PepT1 that is colocated with SGLT1 in small intestinal enterocytes. Using coexpression of SGLT1 and PepT1 in Xenopus oocytes or polarized Caco-2 cells that contain both transporters we demonstrated that the tripeptides were effective when applied to the extracellular compartment. After a 1-h perfusion of intact rat small intestine with QSP, glucose absorption was reduced by 30%. The data indicate that orally applied tripeptides can be used to down-regulate small intestinal glucose absorption, e.g. in diabetes mellitus.

c-Myc and ChREBP regulate glucose-mediated expression of the L-type pyruvate kinase gene in INS-1-derived 832/13 cells

Increased glucose flux generates metabolic signals that control transcriptional programs through poorly understood mechanisms. Previously, we demonstrated a necessity in hepatocytes for c-Myc in the regulation of a prototypical glucose-responsive gene, L-type pyruvate kinase (L-PK) (Collier JJ, Doan TT, Daniels MC, Schurr JR, Kolls JK, Scott DK. J Biol Chem 278: 6588-6595, 2003). Pancreatic beta-cells have many features in common with hepatocytes with respect to glucose-regulated gene expression, and in the present study we determined whether c-Myc was required for the L-PK glucose response in insulin-secreting (INS-1)-derived 832/13 cells. Glucose increased c-Myc abundance and association with its heterodimer partner, Max. Manipulations that prevented the formation of a functional c-Myc/Max heterodimer reduced the expression of the L-PK gene. In addition, glucose augmented the binding of carbohydrate response element binding protein (ChREBP), c-Myc, and Max to the promoter of the L-PK gene in situ. The transactivation of ChREBP, but not of c-Myc, was dependent on high glucose concentrations in the contexts of either the L-PK promoter or a heterologous promoter. The glucose-mediated transactivation of ChREBP was independent of mutations that alter phosphorylation sites thought to regulate the cellular location of ChREBP. We conclude that maximal glucose-induced expression of the L-PK gene in INS-1-derived 832/13 cells involves increased c-Myc abundance, recruitment of c-Myc, Max, and ChREBP to the promoter, and a glucose-stimulated increase in ChREBP transactivation.

Regulation of gene expression by glucose

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW

In addition to its metabolic function, glucose modulates gene expression which is crucial in adapting cells to variations in glycaemia. We summarize recent advances in our understanding of regulation of gene expression by glucose.

RECENT FINDINGS

In-vivo and in-vitro experiments demonstrated that glucose regulates the transcription of genes encoding not only lipogenic and glycolytic enzymes but also proteins involved in global cell functions. The molecular mechanisms have begun to be elucidated, and the transcription factor carbohydrate responsive element-binding protein has emerged as a key actor, at least in liver. More recently, other candidates have been proposed, such as liver X receptors. In pathological situations, altered glycaemic control, as observed in diabetes mellitus, is associated with increased risk for microvascular and macrovascular complications. Recent findings suggest that changes in gene expression occurring in response to hyperglycaemia represent a novel component of glucotoxicity.

SUMMARY

Until recently, the direct transcriptional effects of glucose were underestimated, and insulin was considered to be the major regulator of gene expression in response to glycaemic variation. The recent discovery and characterization of transcription factors mediating the glucose response demonstrate that glucose, like fatty acids and other key nutrients, can directly control gene expression.

Quantification of intracellular phosphorylated carbohydrates in HT29 human colon adenocarcinoma cell line using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry

The quantitative understanding of the role of sugar phosphates in regulating tumor energetic metabolism at the proteomic and genomic level is a prerequisite for an efficient rational design in combined drug chemotherapy. Therefore, it is necessary to determine accurately the concentration of the main sugar phosphate pools at the lower concentrations present in the often-limited volume of tumor cell samples. Taking as an example the human adenocarcinoma cell line HT29, we here report a fast and reliable quantitative method based on the use of liquid nitrogen, a weak acid extraction, and liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry to quantify simultaneously the intracellular concentration of sugar phosphate pools. The method was set up using standard addition curves. Thus, it is possible to identify and quantify hexose phosphate, pentose phosphate, and triose phosphate pools up to 0.02-0.10 ng x microL(-1), depending on the analyte. The method developed was here used for the quantitative study of changes in phosphorylated carbohydrates of central carbon metabolism when high or low glucose concentration conditions are induced in vitro in the HT29 human colon adenocarcinoma cell line.

Acute hyperglycemia induces a global downregulation of gene expression in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle of healthy subjects

To define the effects of acute hyperglycemia per se (i.e., without the confounding effect of hyperinsulinemia) in human tissues in vivo, we performed global gene expression analysis using microarrays in vastus lateralis muscle and subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue of seven healthy men during a hyperglycemic-euinsulinemic clamp with infusion of somatostatin to inhibit endogenous insulin release. We found that doubling fasting blood glucose values while maintaining plasma insulin in the fasting range modifies the expression of 316 genes in skeletal muscle and 336 genes in adipose tissue. More than 80% of them were downregulated during the clamp, indicating a drastic effect of acute high glucose, in the absence of insulin, on mRNA levels in human fat and muscle tissues. Almost all the biological pathways were affected, suggesting a generalized effect of hyperglycemia. The induction of genes from the metallothionein family, related to detoxification and free radical scavenging, indicated that hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress could be involved in the observed modifications. Because the duration and the concentration of the experimental hyperglycemia were close to what is observed during a postprandial glucose excursion in diabetic patients, these data suggest that modifications of gene expression could be an additional effect of glucose toxicity in vivo.

Glucose is necessary for embryonic pancreatic endocrine cell differentiation

Mature pancreatic cells develop during embryonic life from endodermal progenitors, and this developmental process depends on activation of a hierarchy of transcription factors. While information is available on mesodermal signals controlling pancreas development, little is known about environmental factors, such as the levels of nutrients including glucose, that may control this process. Here, we studied the effects of glucose on pancreatic cells development. We used an in vitro model where both endocrine and acinar cells develop from early pancreatic and duodenal homeobox-1 (PDX1)-positive embryonic pancreatic progenitors. We first showed that glucose does not have a major effect on global pancreatic cell proliferation, survival, and acinar cell development. On the other hand, glucose controlled both alpha and beta cell development. Specifically, the surface occupied by insulin-positive cells was 20-fold higher in pancreases cultured in presence than in absence of glucose, and this effect was dose-dependent over the range 0.5-10 mm. Glucose did not appear to control beta cell development by activating the proliferation of early progenitors or beta cells themselves but instead tightly regulated cell differentiation. Thus, glucose did not modify the pattern of expression of Neurogenin3, the earliest marker of endocrine progenitor cells, but was necessary for the expression of the transcription factor NeuroD, a direct target of Neurogenin3 known to be important for proper pancreatic endocrine cell development. We conclude that glucose interferes with the pancreatic endocrine cells development by regulating the transition between Ngn3 and upstream NeuroD.

Inulin and oligofructose modulate lipid metabolism in animals: review of biochemical events and future prospects

Inulin and oligofructose, besides their effect on the gastro-intestinal tract, are also able to exert ‘systemic’ effect, namely by modifying the hepatic metabolism of lipids in several animal models. Feeding male Wistar rats on a carbohydrate-rich diet containing 10 % inulin or oligofructose significantly lowers serum triacylglycerol (TAG) and phospholipid concentrations. A lower hepatic lipogenesis, through a coordinate reduction of the activity and mRNA of lipogenic enzymes is a key event in the reduction of very low-density lipoprotein-TAG secretion by oligofructose. Oligofructose is also able to counteract triglyceride metabolism disorder occurring through dietary manipulation in animals, and sometimes independently on lipogenesis modulation: oligofructose reduces post-prandial triglyceridemia by 50 % and avoids the increase in serum free cholesterol level occurring in rats fed a Western-type high fat diet. Oligofructose protects rats against liver TAG accumulation (steatosis) induced by fructose, or occurring in obese Zucker fa/fa rats. The protective effect of dietary inulin and oligofructose on steatosis in animals, would be interesting, if confirmed in humans, since steatosis is one of the most frequent liver disorders, occurring together with the plurimetabolic syndrome, in overweight people. The panel of putative mediators of the systemic effects of inulin and oligofructose consists in either modifications in glucose/insulin homeostasis, the end-products of their colonic fermentation (i.e. propionate) reaching the liver by the portal vein, incretins and/or the availability of other nutrients. The identification of the key mediators of the systemic effects of inulin and oligofructose is the key to identify target function(s) (or dysfunction(s)), and finally individuals who would take an advantage of increasing their dietary intake.

Energy metabolism in developing chicken lymphocytes is altered during the embryonic to posthatch transition

Adequate energy status in lymphocytes is vital for their development. The ability of developing chicken lymphocytes to acquire and metabolize energy substrates was determined during embryonic days (e) and neonatal days (d) of life when primary-energy substrate metabolism is altered at the whole-animal level. In 3 experiments, bursacytes and thymocytes were isolated on e17, e20, d1, d3, d7, or d14 to analyze markers associated with glucose, glutamine, and lipid metabolism. Bursacyte glucose transporter-3 (Glut-3) mRNA abundance increased from d1 to d14 and hexokinase-1 (HK-1) mRNA abundance was maximum on e20 (P<0.05). Thymocyte Glut-1, Glut-3, and HK-1 mRNA abundance increased from e17 to d14 (P<0.05). HK enzyme activity increased from e20 to d3 in bursacytes and d3 to d7 in thymocytes (P<0.05). Glucose uptake by bursacytes and thymocytes was greater on d14 compared to d1 and d7 (P<0.05). Bursacyte and thymocyte sodium coupled neutral amino acid transporter-2 and glutaminase (GA) mRNA abundance increased from e20 to d7 (P<0.05). GA enzyme activity increased from e20 to d7 in bursacytes (P<0.05) and did not change in thymocytes. Carnitine palmitoyl transferase enzyme activity did not change over time in either cell type. These studies suggest that developing B and T lymphocytes adapt their metabolism during the first 2 wk after hatch. Developing lymphocytes increase glucose metabolism with no change in fatty acid metabolism and bursacytes, but not thymocytes, increase glutamine metabolism. Understanding the factors that regulate lymphocyte development in neonatal chicks may help promote their adaptive immune responses to pathogens in early life.

A critical role for the loop region of the basic helix-loop-helix/leucine zipper protein Mlx in DNA binding and glucose-regulated transcription

The carbohydrate response element (ChoRE) is a cis-acting sequence found in the promoters of genes induced transcriptionally by glucose. The ChoRE is composed of two E box-like motifs that are separated by 5 bp and is recognized by two basic helix–loop–helix/leucine zipper (bHLH/LZ) proteins, ChREBP and Mlx, which heterodimerize to bind DNA. In this study, we demonstrate that two ChREBP/Mlx heterodimers interact to stabilize binding to the tandem E box-like motifs in the ChoRE. Based on a model structure that we generated of ChREBP/Mlx bound to the ChoRE, we hypothesized that intermolecular interactions between residues within the Mlx loop regions of adjacent heterodimers are responsible for stabilizing the complex. We tested this hypothesis by preparing Mlx variants in which the loop region was replaced with that of another family member or mutated at several key residues. These Mlx variants retained their ability to bind to a single perfect E-box motif as a heterodimer with ChREBP, but no longer bound to the ChoRE nor supported glucose responsive activity. In summary, our results support a model in which the loop regions of Mlx play an important functional role in mediating the coordinate binding of ChREBP/Mlx heterodimers to the ChoRE.

Characterization of the 5'‐regulatory regions of the rat and human apelin genes and regulation of breast apelin by USF

Apelin, a peptide widely expressed in the body, is the endogenous ligand for the APJ receptor. To investigate how the apelin gene is regulated transcriptionally, we cloned and characterized approximately 3000 and approximately 4000 bp 5'-upstream fragments of the rat and human apelin genes. Putative CAAT-like box, but not TATA-box sites were identified. The rat (-207/-1 bp) and human (-100/+74 bp) core promoter sequences contain putative binding sites for upstream stimulatory factor (USF)-1/-2. Mutagenesis and overexpression assays showed that USF up-regulates basal and inducible apelin transcription. EMSA and supershift experiments indicated binding of USF-1/-2 to the rat (-114/-109 bp) and human (-84/-79 bp) apelin promoters. ChIP experiments show that USF is recruited to the putative USF binding site in the human apelin promoter in cultured breast cells. In concert with increased breast apelin expression during pregnancy and lactation in rats, EMSAs demonstrate an elevated binding of pregnant and lactating rat breast nuclear proteins to a consensus USF oligonucleotide. In vivo ChIP assays verified increased USF binding to the apelin promoter in breast of lactating rats. Together, our findings show that USF exerts a stimulatory role in regulation of breast apelin expression during pregnancy and lactation.

Insulin induction of glucokinase and fatty acid synthase in hepatocytes: analysis of the roles of sterol-regulatory-element-binding protein-1c and liver X receptor

The transcription activator SREBP-1c (sterol-regulatory-element-binding protein-1c) is induced by insulin in the liver and is considered a master regulator of lipogenic genes such as FASN (fatty acid synthase). The question of whether SREBP-1c is also a mediator of insulin action on the regulatory enzyme of glucose metabolism GCK (glucokinase) is controversial. In the present paper, we induced SREBP-1c to various levels with insulin or the liver X receptor ligand T0901317 in primary hepatocytes and asked if these levels correlated with those of GCK or FASN mRNA expression, using the latter as positive control. Insulin and T0901317 triggered the accumulation of precursor and processed forms of SREBP-1c to similar levels and with comparable kinetics, and both effectors together caused synergistic increases in SREBP-1c protein levels. These effects were accompanied by commensurate elevation of FASN mRNA, notably by a synergistic response to both effectors. By contrast, GCK mRNA was unresponsive to T0901317 and was induced only by insulin. Treatment of hepatocytes with insulin and/or T0901317 resulted in the recruitment of SREBP-1c to the FASN promoter as shown by chromatin immunoprecipitation, whereas SREBP-1c did not bind to the GCK promoter. Lastly, we observed that the glycogen synthase kinase-3 inhibitor SB216763 produced a small increase in SREBP-1c protein level, which was further augmented in the presence of T0901317. The level of FASN mRNA varied in parallel with SREBP-1c, while GCK mRNA was unaffected. Collectively, these results showed that increases in SREBP-1c were neither necessary nor sufficient for GCK induction in hepatocytes, while at the same time they underscored the role of SREBP-1c as a key regulator of FASN.

Evolving resistance to obesity in an insect

Failure to adapt to a changing nutritional environment comes at a cost, as evidenced by the modern human obesity crisis. Consumption of energy-rich diets can lead to obesity and is associated with deleterious consequences not only in humans but also in many other animals, including insects. The question thus arises whether animals restricted over multiple generations to high-energy diets can evolve mechanisms to limit the deposition of adverse levels of body fat. We show that Plutella xylostella caterpillars reared for multiple generations on carbohydrate-rich foods (either a chemically defined artificial diet or a high-starch Arabidopsis mutant) progressively developed the ability to eat excess carbohydrate without laying it down as fat, providing strong evidence that excess fat storage has a fitness cost. In contrast, caterpillars reared in carbohydrate-scarce environments (a chemically defined artificial diet or a low-starch Arabidopsis mutant) had a greater propensity to store ingested carbohydrate as fat. Additionally, insects reared on the low-starch Arabidopsis mutant evolved a preference for laying their eggs on this plant, whereas those selected on the high-starch Arabidopsis mutant showed no preference. Our results provide an experimental example of metabolic adaptation in the face of changes in the nutritional environment and suggest that changes in plant macronutrient profiles may promote host-associated population divergence.

The role of GLUT2 in dietary sugar handling

GLUT2 is a facilitative glucose transporter located in the plasma membrane of the liver, pancreatic, intestinal, kidney cells as well as in the portal and the hypothalamus areas. Due to its low affinity and high capacity, GLUT2 transports dietary sugars, glucose, fructose and galactose in a large range of physiological concentrations, displaying large bidirectional fluxes in and out the cells. This review focuses on the roles of GLUT2. The first identified function of GLUT2 is its capacity to fuel metabolism and to provide metabolites stimulating the transcription of glucose sensitive genes. Recently, two other functions of GLUT2 are uncovered. First, the insertion of GLUT2 into the apical membrane of enterocytes induces the acute regulation of intestinal sugar absorption after a meal. Second, the GLUT2 protein itself initiates a protein signalling pathway triggering a glucose signal from the plasma membrane to the transcription machinery.

ChREBP*Mlx is the principal mediator of glucose-induced gene expression in the liver

In mammals, glucose-regulated gene expression has been best characterized in the liver, where increased glucose metabolism induces transcription of genes encoding enzymes involved in de novo lipogenesis. ChREBP and Mlx dimerize and function together as a glucose-responsive transcription factor to regulate target genes, such as liver-type pyruvate kinase, acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1, and fatty acid synthase. To identify additional glucose-responsive genes in the liver, we used microarray analysis to compare gene expression patterns in low and high glucose conditions in hepatocytes. Target genes of ChREBP.Mlx were simultaneously identified by gene profiling in the presence or absence of a dominant negative Mlx. Of 224 genes that are induced by glucose, 139 genes (62%) were also inhibited by the dominant negative Mlx. Lipogenic enzyme genes involved in the entire pathway of de novo lipogenesis were found to be glucose-responsive target genes of ChREBP.Mlx. Genes encoding enzymes in other metabolic pathways and numerous regulators of metabolism were also identified. To determine if any of these genes are direct targets of ChREBP.Mlx, we searched for ChoRE-like sequences in the 5'-flanking regions of several genes that responded rapidly to glucose. ChoRE sequences that bound to ChREBP.Mlx and supported a glucose response were identified in two additional genes. Combining all of the known ChoRE sequences, we generated a modified ChoRE consensus sequence, CAYGNGN(5)CNCRTG. In summary, ChREBP.Mlx is the principal transcription factor regulating glucose-responsive genes in the liver and coordinately regulates a family of genes required for glucose utilization and energy storage.

L-rhamnose and lactulose decrease serum triacylglycerols and their rates of synthesis, but do not affect serum cholesterol concentrations in men

Colonic short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) may affect hepatic lipid metabolism. Lactulose increases colonic acetate production, whereas L-rhamnose increases propionate. To test the effects of oral L-rhamnose and lactulose for 28 d on fasting concentrations and hepatic synthesis of lipids in humans, 18 men were administered 25 g/d of L-rhamnose, lactulose, or d-glucose for 4 wk in a partially randomized crossover design, with blood collected from fasting subjects on the first and last day of each period. Cholesterol and triacylglycerol (TG) synthesis rates were determined using deuterated water uptake rate over the last 24 h of each period. Postprandial blood lipids, and glucose and insulin were assessed in 11 subjects on d 28. Fasting serum cholesterol was unchanged; however, when expressed as a percentage change, TG were decreased, relative to baseline (P < 0.04), by L-rhamnose (-10%) and lactulose (-10%), compared with D-glucose, which increased serum TG (+11%). Net TG-fatty acid (TGFA) synthesis on d 28 was lower with L-rhamnose (2.42 +/- 0.38 g/d) and lactulose (2.62 +/- 0.35 g/d) than with D-glucose (2.96 +/- 0.31 g/d, P < 0.01). We conclude that these results do not support a primary role for propionate in the cholesterol-lowering effect of soluble fiber. However, both lactulose and L-rhamnose lowered serum TG (expressed as a percentage change) and TGFA synthesis, compared with d-glucose, which increased them. Although these data are consistent with inhibition of TGFA synthesis by SCFA, other aspects of the metabolism of these sugars cannot be ruled out as putative agents of their TG-lowering effects.

Deficiency of carbohydrate-activated transcription factor ChREBP prevents obesity and improves plasma glucose control in leptin-deficient (ob/ob) mice

The transcription factor carbohydrate response element-binding protein (ChREBP) mediates insulin-independent, glucose-stimulated gene expression of multiple liver enzymes responsible for converting excess carbohydrate to fatty acids for long-term storage. To investigate ChREBP's role in the development of obesity and obesity-associated metabolic dysregulation, ChREBP-deficient mice were intercrossed with ob/ob mice. As a result of deficient leptin expression, ob/ob mice overeat, become obese and resistant to insulin, and display marked elevations in hepatic lipogenesis, gluconeogenesis, and plasma glucose and triglycerides. mRNA expression of all hepatic lipogenic enzymes was significantly lower in ob/ob-ChREBP-/- than in ob/ob mice, resulting in decreased hepatic fatty acid synthesis and normalization of plasma free fatty acid and triglyceride levels. Overall weight gain in addition to adiposity was reduced in the doubly deficient mice. The former was largely attributable to decreased food intake and may result from decreased hypothalamic expression of the appetite-stimulating neuropeptide agouti-related protein. mRNA expression and activity of gluconeogenic enzymes also was lower in the doubly deficient mice, contributing to significantly lower blood glucose levels. The results of this study suggest that inactivation of ChREBP expression not only reduces fat synthesis and obesity in ob/ob mice but also results in improved glucose tolerance and appetite control.

Defective carbohydrate metabolism in mice homozygous for the tubby mutation

Tub is a member of a small gene family, the tubby-like proteins (TULPs), with predominant expression in neurons. Mice carrying a mutation in Tub develop retinal and cochlear degeneration as well as late-onset obesity with insulin resistance. During behavioral and metabolic testing, we found that homozygous C57BL/6J-Tub(tub) mice have a lower respiratory quotient than C57BL/6J controls before the onset of obesity, indicating that tubby homozygotes fail to activate carbohydrate metabolism and instead rely on fat metabolism for energy needs. In concordance with this, tubby mice show higher excretion of ketone bodies and accumulation of glycogen in the liver. Quantitation of liver mRNA levels shows that, during the transition from light to dark period, tubby mice fail to induce glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6pdh), the rate-limiting enzyme in the pentose phosphate pathway that normally supplies NADPH for de novo fatty acid synthesis and glutathione reduction. Reduced G6PDH protein levels and enzymatic activity in tubby mice lead accordingly to lower levels of NADPH and reduced glutathione (GSH), respectively. mRNA levels for the lipolytic enzymes acetyl-CoA synthetase and carnitine palmitoyltransferase are increased during the dark cycle and decreased during the light period, and several citric acid cycle genes are dysregulated in tubby mice. Examination of hypothalamic gene expression showed high levels of preproorexin mRNA leading to accumulation of orexin peptide in the lateral hypothalamus. We hypothesize that abnormal hypothalamic orexin expression leads to changes in liver carbohydrate metabolism and may contribute to the moderate obesity observed in tubby mice.

Hexose transporters GLUT1 and GLUT3 are colocalized with hexokinase I in caveolae microdomains of rat spermatogenic cells

Postmeiotic spermatogenic cells, but not meiotic spermatogenic cells respond differentially with glucose-induced changes in [Ca2+]i indicating a differential transport of glucose via facilitative hexose transporters (GLUTs) specifically distributed in the plasma membrane. Several studies have indicated that plasma membrane in mammalian cells is not homogeneously organized, but contains specific microdomains known as detergent-resistant membrane domains (DRMDs), lipid rafts or caveolae. The association of these domains and GLUTs isoforms has not been characterized in spermatogenic cells. We analyzed the expression and function of GLUT1 and GLUT3 in isolated spermatocytes and spermatids. The results showed that spermatogenic cells express both glucose transporters, with spermatids exhibiting a higher affinity glucose transport system. In addition, spermatogenic cells express caveolin-1, and glucose transporters colocalize with caveolin-1 in caveolin-enriched membrane fractions. Experiments in which the integrity of caveolae was disrupted by pretreatment with methyl-beta-cyclodextrin, indicated that the involvement of cholesterol-enriched plasma membrane microdomains were involved in the localization of GLUTs and uptake of 2-deoxyglucose. We also observed cofractionation of GLUT3 and caveolin-1 in low-buoyant density membranes together with their shift to higher densities after methyl-beta-cyclodextrin treatment. GLUT1 was found in all fractions isolated. Immunofluorescent studies indicated that caveolin-1, GLUT1, and hexokinase I colocalize in spermatocytes while caveolin-1, GLUT3, and hexokinase I colocalize in spermatids. These findings suggest the presence of hexose transporters in DRMDs, and further support a role for intact caveolae or cholesterol-enriched membrane microdomains in relation to glucose uptake and glucose phosphorylation. The results would also explain the different glucose-induced changes in [Ca2+]i in both cells.

Liver-specific deletion of acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1 reduces hepatic triglyceride accumulation without affecting glucose homeostasis

In animals, liver and white adipose are the main sites for the de novo fatty acid synthesis. Deletion of fatty acid synthase or acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) 1 in mice resulted in embryonic lethality, indicating that the de novo fatty acid synthesis is essential for embryonic development. To understand the importance of de novo fatty acid synthesis and the role of ACC1-produced malonyl-CoA in adult mouse tissues, we generated liver-specific ACC1 knockout (LACC1KO) mice. LACC1KO mice have no obvious health problem under normal feeding conditions. Total ACC activity and malonyl-CoA levels were approximately 70-75% lower in liver of LACC1KO mice compared with that of the WT mice. In addition, the livers of LACC1KO mice accumulated 40-70% less triglycerides. Unexpectedly, when fed fat-free diet for 10 days, there was significant up-regulation of PPARgamma and several enzymes in the lipogenic pathway in the liver of LACC1KO mice compared with the WT mice. Despite the significant up-regulation of the lipogenic enzymes, including a >2-fold increase in fatty acid synthase mRNA, protein, and activity, there was significant decrease in the de novo fatty acid synthesis and triglyceride accumulation in the liver. However, there were no significant changes in blood glucose and fasting ketone body levels. Hence, reducing cytosolic malonyl-CoA and, therefore, the de novo fatty acid synthesis in the liver, does not affect fatty acid oxidation and glucose homeostasis under lipogenic conditions.

Hepatic gene regulation by glucose and polyunsaturated fatty acids: a role for ChREBP

The liver is a major site for carbohydrate metabolism (glycolysis and glycogen synthesis) and triglyceride synthesis (lipogenesis). In the last decade, increasing evidence has emerged to show that nutrients, in particular, glucose and fatty acids, are able to regulate hepatic gene expression in a transcriptional manner. Indeed, although insulin was long thought to be the major regulator of hepatic gene expression, it is now clear that glucose metabolism rather that glucose itself also contributes substantially to the coordinated regulation of carbohydrate and lipid homeostasis in liver. In fact, the recent discovery of the glucose-signaling transcription factor carbohydrate responsive element binding protein (ChREBP) shed some light on the molecular mechanisms by which glycolytic and lipogenic genes are reciprocally regulated by glucose and fatty acids in liver. Here, we will review some of the recent studies that have begun to elucidate the regulation and function of this key transcription factor in liver. Indeed, a better understanding of the mechanisms by which glucose and fatty acids control hepatic gene expression may provide novel insight into the development of new therapeutic strategies for a better management of diseases involving blood glucose and/or disorders of lipid metabolism.

Human prolyl-4-hydroxylase alpha(I) transcription is mediated by upstream stimulatory factors

Prolyl-4-hydroxylase alpha(I) (P4Halpha(I)) is the rate-limiting subunit for P4H enzyme activity, which is essential for procollagen hydroxylation and secretion. In the current study, we have characterized the human P4Halpha(I) promoter for transcription factors and DNA elements regulating P4Halpha(I) expression. Using a progressive deletion cloning approach, we have constructed pGL3-P4Halpha(I) recombinant plasmids. We have identified a positive regulatory region at the positions of bp -184 to -97 responsible for approximately 80% of the P4Halpha(I) promoter efficiency. Three E-boxes were located within this region, and the E-box at position bp -135 explains most of the regulatory capacity. Upstream stimulatory factors (USF1/USF2) were shown to bind on the E-box using chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Suppression of USF1 and/or USF2 using specific short interference RNA resulted in a significant reduction in P4Halpha(I) promoter activity, and overexpressed USF1 or USF2 increased P4Halpha(I) promoter activity significantly. Although transforming growth factor beta1 increased the USF1/USF2-E-box binding and P4Halpha(I) promoter activity, this up-regulatory effect can be largely prevented by USF1/USF2-specific short interference RNA. On the other hand, cigarette smoking extracts, which have been shown to suppress P4Halpha(I) expression, inhibited the binding between the USF1/USF2 and E-box, resulting in a reduced P4Halpha(I) promoter activity. Furthermore, the E-box on the P4Halpha(I) promoter appeared to indiscriminately bind with either USF1 or USF2, with a similar outcome on the promoter efficiency. In conclusion, our study shows that USF1/USF2 plays a critical role in basal P4Halpha(I) expression, and both positive (transforming growth factor beta1) and negative (cigarette smoking extract) regulators appear to influence the USF-E-box interaction and affect P4Halpha(I) expression.

Metabolic Energetics and Genetics in the Heart

From the first stages of differentiation in the embryo to the end of life, energy substrate metabolism and function are inextricably linked features of the heart. The principle of energy substrate metabolism is simple. For a given developmental stage and for a given environment, the heart oxidizes the most efficient fuel on the path to ATP. The "multitasking" of energy substrate metabolism in the heart entails more than the generation of reducing equivalents for oxidative phosphorylation of ADP in the respiratory chain. In the postnatal heart, substrate switching and metabolic flexibility are features of normal function. In the stressed heart, metabolic remodeling precedes, triggers, and sustains functional and structural remodeling. This manuscript reviews the pleiotropic actions of metabolism in energy transfer, signal transduction, cardiac growth, gene expression, and viability. Examples are presented to illustrate that metabolic signals of stressed and failing heart are the product of complex cellular processes. An early feature of the maladapted heart is a loss of metabolic flexibility. The example of lipotoxic heart failure illustrates the concept of sustained metabolic dysregulation as a cause of contractile dysfunction of the heart. Thus, a paradigm emerges in which metabolic signals not only regulate fluxes through enzyme catalyzed reactions in existing metabolic pathways, but also regulate transcriptional, translational, and post-translational signaling in the heart. As new insights are gained into metabolic adaptation and maladaptation of the heart, metabolic modulation may become an effective strategy for the treatment of heart failure.

Binding and functional characteristics of two E-box motifs within the S100A6 (calcyclin) gene promoter

S100A6 (calcyclin) is a small calcium-binding protein of the S100 family often associated with cancer and metastasis. We have previously shown that the E-box sequence at position -283/-278 of the S100A6 gene promoter interacts with USF transcription factor and contributes to promoter transcriptional activity. We now present evidence that a second E-box motif at position -593/-588 of the promoter also binds USF and that the USF1/USF2 heterodimer is the prevailing dimeric form of the transcription factor bound. Using the chromatin immunoprecipitation assay (ChIP), we show that USF is bound in vivo to the E-box regulatory element(s). Depletion of the endogenous USF pool by means of a decoy oligonucleotide evokes a severe inhibition of S100A6 gene promoter activity. Furthermore, we show that S100A6 gene promoter activity can be stimulated by palmitate and that mutation of the -283/-278 E-box sequence completely blocks this stimulation.

Glucose activation of ChREBP in hepatocytes occurs via a two-step mechanism

Carbohydrate response element binding protein (ChREBP) is a transcription factor that mediates glucose-responsive changes in gene expression in hepatocytes. In the current model for glucose regulation, inhibition of ChREBP in low glucose occurs in response to cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA)-mediated phosphorylation of residues S196, S626, and/or T666. Activation of ChREBP in conditions of increased glucose results simply from reversal of these inhibitory phosphorylations. To test this model, we analyzed mutant forms of ChREBP that lack one or more of the proposed PKA sites and found that these forms of ChREBP still require glucose for activation. Additionally, cAMP levels in cultured hepatocytes were negligible in low glucose conditions, indicating PKA should not be active. Finally, overall ChREBP phosphorylation did not change in response to altered glucose levels. We conclude that in addition to its repression by PKA, glucose activation of ChREBP involves a second mechanism that is independent of PKA phosphorylation.

Glucose represses connexin36 in insulin-secreting cells

The gap-junction protein connexin36 (Cx36) contributes to control the functions of insulin-producing cells. In this study, we investigated whether the expression of Cx36 is regulated by glucose in insulin-producing cells. Glucose caused a significant reduction of Cx36 in insulin-secreting cell lines and freshly isolated pancreatic rat islets. This decrease appeared at the mRNA and the protein levels in a dose- and time-dependent manner. 2-Deoxyglucose partially reproduced the effect of glucose, whereas glucosamine, 3-O-methyl-D-glucose and leucine were ineffective. Moreover, KCl-induced depolarization of beta-cells had no effect on Cx36 expression, indicating that glucose metabolism and ATP production are not mandatory for glucose-induced Cx36 downregulation. Forskolin mimicked the repression of Cx36 by glucose. Glucose or forskolin effects on Cx36 expression were not suppressed by the L-type Ca(2+)-channel blocker nifedipine but were fully blunted by the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) inhibitor H89. A 4 kb fragment of the human Cx36 promoter was identified and sequenced. Reporter-gene activity driven by various Cx36 promoter fragments indicated that Cx36 repression requires the presence of a highly conserved cAMP responsive element (CRE). Electrophoretic-mobility-shift assays revealed that, in the presence of a high glucose concentration, the binding activity of the repressor CRE-modulator 1 (CREM-1) is enhanced. Taken together, these data provide evidence that glucose represses the expression of Cx36 through the cAMP-PKA pathway, which activates a member of the CRE binding protein family.

Inhibition of acetyl-CoA carboxylase isoforms by pyridoxal phosphate

Mammalian isoforms of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC-1 and ACC-2) play important roles in synthesis, elongation, and oxidation of long-chain fatty acids, and the possible significance of ACC in the development of obesity has led to interest in the development of inhibitors. Here, we demonstrate that pyridoxal phosphate (PLP) is a linear and reversible inhibitor of ACC-1 and ACC-2. ACC from rat liver and white adipose tissue (largely ACC-1) exhibited an IC50 of approximately 200 microm, whereas ACC-2 from heart or skeletal muscle exhibited an IC50 exceeding 500 microm. ACC from rat liver was equally sensitive to PLP following extensive purification by avidin affinity chromatography. When added before citrate, PLP inhibited ACC with a Ki of approximately 100 microm, reducing maximal activity >90% and increasing the Ka for citrate approximately 5-fold but having little effect on substrate Km values. Pre-treatment with citrate increased the apparent Ki for ACC inhibition by PLP by approximately 4-fold. Inhibition of ACC was reversed by removal of PLP, either by washing or by reaction with hydroxylamine or amino-oxyacetate. ACC was irreversibly inhibited and radiolabeled, to a stoichiometry of approximately 0.4 mol[H]/mol subunit, in the presence of PLP plus [3H]borohydride. Studies with structurally related compounds demonstrated that the reactive aldehyde and negatively charged substituents of PLP contribute importantly to ACC inhibition. The studies reported here suggest a rationale to develop ACC inhibitors that are not structurally related to the substrates or products of the reaction and an approach to probe the citrate-binding site of the enzyme.

Control of Glut1 promoter activity under basal conditions and in response to hyperosmolarity: role of Sp1

We previously identified (Hwang DY and Ismail-Beigi F. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 281: C1365-C1372, 2001) a 44-bp GC-rich segment of the rat proximal glucose transporter (Glut)1 promoter, located at -104 to -61, as necessary for basal transcription of the Glut1 gene. Using deletion and mutational analysis and expression of transfected reporter constructs, we report in the present study that mutation of the Sp1 site located within this segment of the promoter leads to a marked ( approximately 4-fold) decrease in basal promoter activity. Double mutations located in the Sp1 site and in a second downstream GC-rich region (-71 to -51) did not cause a further decrease in promoter activity. Gel shift and supershift assays verified the importance of the Sp1 site. Exposure of cells to trichostatin A resulted in increased expression of the endogenous Glut1 as well as the transfected wild-type construct. Finally, the presence of the Sp1 site was found to be essential for the positive response of the promoter to hyperosmolarity. We conclude that the consensus Sp1 site located in the rat proximal Glut1 promoter is necessary and sufficient for basal expression of the Glut1 gene, as well as for its response to hyperosmolarity.

Effect of L-carnitine on acetyl-CoA content and activity of blood platelets in healthy and diabetic persons

BACKGROUND

Excessive blood platelet activity contributes to vascular complications in diabetic persons. Increased acetyl-CoA in platelets from diabetic persons has been suggested to be a cause of this hyperactivity. We therefore investigated whether L-carnitine, which up-regulates metabolism of acetyl-CoA in muscles and brain, may affect platelet function in healthy and diabetic individuals.

METHODS

We obtained platelets from healthy and diabetic persons and measured acetyl-CoA concentrations, malonyl dialdehyde (MDA) synthesis, and platelet aggregation in the absence and presence of L-carnitine. Activities of selected enzymes involved in glucose and acetyl-CoA metabolism were also assessed.

RESULTS

Fasting glucose, fructosamine, and hemoglobin A1c were present in significantly higher amounts in the blood of diabetic patients than in healthy individuals. Activities of carnitine acetyltransferase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, oxoglutarate dehydrogenase, and fatty acid synthase were 17%-62% higher in platelets from diabetic patients. Mitochondrial acetyl-CoA was increased by 98% in platelets from diabetic patients, MDA synthesis was increased by 73%, and platelet aggregation by 60%. L-Carnitine had no or only a slight effect on these indices in platelets from healthy individuals, but in platelets from diabetic patients, L-carnitine caused a 99% increase in acetyl-CoA in the cytoplasmic compartment along with increases in MDA synthesis and platelet aggregation.

CONCLUSIONS

Excessive platelet activity in persons with diabetes may result from increased acetyl-CoA, which apparently increases synthesis of lipid activators of platelet function. L-Carnitine may aggravate platelet hyperactivity in diabetic persons by increasing the provision of surplus acetyl-CoA to the cytoplasmic compartment.

Glucokinase and glucose homeostasis: proven concepts and new ideas

The enzyme GK (glucokinase), which phosphorylates glucose to form glucose 6-phosphate, serves as the glucose sensor of insulin-producing beta-cells. GK has thermodynamic, kinetic, regulatory and molecular genetic characteristics that are ideal for its glucose sensor function and allow it to control glycolytic flux of the beta-cells as indicated by control-, elasticity- and response-coefficients close to or larger than 1.0. GK operates in tandem with the K(+) and Ca(2+) channels of the beta-cell membrane, resulting in a threshold for glucose-stimulated insulin release of approx. 5 mM, which is the set point of glucose homoeostasis for most laboratory animals and humans. Point mutations of GK cause 'glucokinase disease' in humans, which includes hypo- and hyper-glycaemia syndromes resulting from activating or inactivating mutations respectively. GK is allosterically activated by pharmacological agents (called GK activators), which lower blood glucose in normal animals and animal models of T2DM. On the basis of crystallographic studies that identified a ligand-free 'super-open' and a liganded closed structure of GK, on thermostability studies using glucose or mannoheptulose as ligands and studies showing that mannoheptulose alone or combined with GK activators induces expression of GK in pancreatic islets and partially preserves insulin secretory competency, a new hypothesis was developed that GK may function as a metabolic switch per se without involvement of enhanced glucose metabolism. Current research has the goal to find molecular targets of this putative 'GK-switch'. The case of GK research illustrates how basic science may culminate in therapeutic advances of human medicine.

Carbohydrate responsive element binding protein (ChREBP) and sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c): two key regulators of glucose metabolism and lipid synthesis in liver

In mammals, the regulation of hepatic metabolism plays a key role in whole body energy balance, since the liver is the major site of carbohydrate metabolism (glycolysis and glycogen synthesis) and triglyceride synthesis (lipogenesis). Lipogenesis is regulated through the acute control of key enzyme activities by means of allosteric and covalent modifications. Moreover, the synthesis of most glycolytic and lipogenic enzymes is regulated in response to dietary status, in which glucose, in particular, is a crucial energy nutrient. This latter response occurs in large part through transcriptional regulation of genes encoding glycolytic and lipogenic enzymes. In the past few years, recent advances have been made in understanding the transcriptional regulation of hepatic glycolytic and lipogenic genes by insulin and glucose. Although insulin is a major regulator of hepatic lipogenesis, there is increasing evidence that glucose also contributes to the coordinated regulation of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in liver. Here, we review the respective roles of the transcription factor sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c) in mediating the effect of insulin on hepatic gene expression, and the role of carbohydrate responsive element binding protein (ChREBP) in regulating gene transcription by glucose.

The farnesoid X receptor modulates hepatic carbohydrate metabolism during the fasting-refeeding transition

The liver plays a central role in the control of blood glucose homeostasis by maintaining a balance between glucose production and utilization. The farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a bile acid-activated nuclear receptor. Hepatic FXR expression is regulated by glucose and insulin. Here we identify a role for FXR in the control of hepatic carbohydrate metabolism. When submitted to a controlled fasting-refeeding schedule, FXR(-/-) mice displayed an accelerated response to high carbohydrate refeeding with an accelerated induction of glycolytic and lipogenic genes and a more pronounced repression of gluconeogenic genes. Plasma insulin and glucose levels were lower in FXR(-/-) mice upon refeeding the high-carbohydrate diet. These alterations were paralleled by decreased hepatic glycogen content. Hepatic insulin sensitivity was unchanged in FXR(-/-) mice. Treatment of isolated primary hepatocytes with a synthetic FXR agonist attenuated glucose-induced mRNA expression as well as promoter activity of L-type pyruvate kinase, acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1, and Spot14. Moreover, activated FXR interfered negatively with the carbohydrate response elements regions. These results identify a novel role for FXR as a modulator of hepatic carbohydrate metabolism.

Hypoenergetic high-carbohydrate or high-fat parenteral nutrition induces a similar metabolic response with differential effects on hepatic IGF-I mRNA in dexamethasone-treated rats

The optimal level of energy for critically ill patients who require parenteral nutrition (PN) is unclear. Our objective was to determine whether 50% energy (50%E) restriction due to a reduction in carbohydrate or fat, with provision of adequate protein and micronutrients, ameliorates the detrimental effects of dexamethasone (Dex) on body protein catabolism, insulin resistance, and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) responses in rats administered PN. The experiment included 6 PN groups, adequate energy (AE) +/- Dex, 50% AE with high carbohydrate (50%E CHO) +/- Dex and 50% AE with high fat (50%E FAT) +/- Dex. There was a significant interaction between energy level and Dex such that the increase in body catabolism due to 50%E from CHO or FAT was reduced by approximately 50%, although the amount of body weight and nitrogen lost over 7 d was significantly greater with 50%E than with AE. AE+Dex induced a 60% increase in liver mass, whereas 50%E+Dex reduced the increase to 26%. AE+Dex induced a 5-fold increase in serum insulin level, whereas 50%E+Dex normalized the insulin to glucose ratio. Serum IGF-I levels were reduced 14-18% by Dex and 30% by 50%E. Hepatic immunoreactive IGF-I was significantly correlated with serum IGF-I and nitrogen balance. 50%E CHO and 50%E FAT had differential effects on hepatic IGF-I mRNA with a 40% decrease in IGF-I mRNA due to 50%E FAT+Dex. In summary,CHO or FAT hypoenergetic PN with adequate protein had similar effects in normalizing hyperinsulinemia, attenuating hepatomegaly, and reducing the increment, but not the total amount of body protein catabolism, induced by glucocorticoid excess.

Direct role of ChREBP.Mlx in regulating hepatic glucose-responsive genes

Enzymes required for de novo lipogenesis are induced in mammalian liver after a meal high in carbohydrates. In addition to insulin, increased glucose metabolism initiates an intracellular signaling pathway that transcriptionally regulates genes encoding lipogenic enzymes. A cis-acting sequence, the carbohydrate response element (ChoRE), has been found in the promoter region of several of these genes. ChREBP (carbohydrate response element-binding protein) was recently identified as a candidate transcription factor in the glucose-signaling pathway. We reported that ChREBP requires the heterodimeric partner Max-like factor X (Mlx) to bind to ChoRE sequences. In this study we provide further evidence to support a direct role of Mlx in glucose signaling in the liver. We constructed two different dominant negative forms of Mlx that could dimerize with ChREBP but block its binding to DNA. When introduced into hepatocytes, both dominant negative forms of Mlx inhibited the glucose response of a transfected ChoRE-containing promoter. The glucose response was rescued by adding exogenous wild type Mlx or ChREBP, but not MondoA, a paralog of ChREBP that can also form a heterodimer with Mlx. Furthermore, dominant negative Mlx blocked the induction of glucose-responsive genes from their natural chromosomal context under high glucose conditions. In contrast, genes induced by the insulin and thyroid hormone-signaling pathways were unaffected by dominant negative Mlx. Mlx was present in the glucose-responsive complex of liver nuclear extract from which ChREBP was purified. In conclusion, Mlx is an obligatory partner of ChREBP in regulating lipogenic enzyme genes in liver.