Role of Ca2(+)-ATPases in regulation of cellular Ca2+ signalling, as studied with the selective microsomal Ca2(+)-ATPase inhibitor, thapsigargin

Effect of tri-n-butyltin on intracellular Ca2+ concentration of mouse thymocytes under Ca(2+)-free condition

Effect of tri-n-butyltin at concentrations ranging from 100 nM to 1 microM on the intracellular Ca2+ concentration of mouse thymocytes was examined under Ca(2+)-free conditions in comparison with those of 50 nM A23187, 100 nM thapsigargin and 10 microM cyclopiazonic acid, using the fluorescent dye for intracellular Ca2+, fluo-3. Tri-n-butyltin persistently increased the intensity of fluo-3 fluorescence while A23187, thapsigargin and cyclopiazonic acid produced a transient augmentation of the fluorescence. Pretreatment with A23187 greatly decreased the fluorescence responses induced by 1 microM tri-n-butyltin. However, the effect of thapsigargin and cyclopiazonic acid on the tri-n-butyltin-induced response was much weaker than that of A23187. In the presence of tri-n-butyltin, the transient response produced by A23187 was greatly prolonged. Results may suggest that tri-n-butyltin increases the membrane Ca2+ permeability of the intracellular organelles (cellular calcium stores) and decreases the Ca2+ pump activity of thymocyte membrane, resulting in a sustained increase in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration under Ca(2+)-free concentration.

Calcium waves and dynamics visualized by confocal microscopy in Xenopus oocytes expressing cloned TRH receptors

Laser scanning confocal microscopy was used to analyse changes in free cytosolic calcium ([Ca2+]i) in Xenopus laevis oocytes expressing the cloned rat TRH receptor in response to TRH. In oocytes expressing TRH receptors, TRH invariably evoked a dose-dependent, biphasic calcium response. This response consisted of an initial transient planar wave of calcium propagating just below the surface of the membrane followed by a slower, secondary calcium phase. The TRH antagonist, chlordiazepoxide, markedly inhibited this calcium wave. The origins of calcium involved in this biphasic response were investigated using a variety of intra- and extra-cellular calcium antagonists. The intracellular calcium antagonists thapsigargin and TMB-8 reduced the initial and to a lesser extent the secondary phase of the planar calcium wave. In contrast, EGTA and the calcium channel blocker nifedipine produced a profound inhibition of the secondary phase while the initial phase was only slightly reduced. These results indicate that the release of intracellular calcium is predominantly responsible for the initial phase of the calcium wave while the influx of extracellular calcium is mainly involved in the secondary phase. Qualitative changes in the patterns of calcium release induced by TRH were observed following pretreatment with intracellular calcium antagonists. Following pretreatment with these compounds, TRH induced spiral or regenerative calcium waves. Addition of EGTA to the extracellular medium did not alter these responses confirming the importance of intracellular calcium in the generation of these spiral calcium waves. This study demonstrates the nature and multiplicity of regulating mechanisms of [Ca2+]i following activation of TRH receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes.

Selective expression of one Ca(2+)-inhibitable adenylyl cyclase in dopaminergically innervated rat brain regions

Type I adenylyl cyclase, which can be stimulated by elevated cellular levels of Ca2+, has been proposed to provide a positive coincidence signal detection system, which can integrate signals arising via Gs- and Ca(2+)-mediated pathways. The occurrence of this adenylyl cyclase in brain regions implicated with associative learning in invertebrates and with the mammalian model of plasticity--hippocampal long-term potentiation, supports the notion that the ability of this species of adenylyl cyclase to detect two signals simultaneously may play a role in this neuronal function. In the present study, two recently cloned, closely-related adenylyl cyclases (Types V and VI), are shown to be inhibited by physiological elevation in [Ca2+]i. As a first step towards probing the neuronal significance of Ca(2+)-inhibitable adenylyl cyclases, their distribution was evaluated by in situ hybridization analysis of the rat brain. Strikingly distinct patterns of gene expression were found, ranging from a highly selective distribution of Type V mRNA within the striatum, nucleus accumbens and olfactory tubercle, to a weak and ubiquitous distribution of Type VI mRNA. Type V AC mRNA is expressed exclusively in medium-sized striatal neurons, which also express D1-dopaminergic (Gs-linked) and M1-muscarinic cholinergic (Ca(2+)-linked) receptors. Thus the adenylyl cyclase is primed for simultaneous detection of opposing regulatory influences. The utility of this novel mode of signal detection to dopaminergic function remains to be established.

The isoquinoline derivative LOE 908 selectively blocks vasopressin-activated nonselective cation currents in A7r5 aortic smooth muscle cells

The effect of (R,S)-(3,4-dihydro 6,7-dimethoxy-isoquinoline-1-yl)-2-phenyl- N,N-di-[2-(2,3,4-trimethoxyphenyl)ethyl]-acetamide (LOE 908), a cation channel blocker in HL-60 promyeloblasts, was studied in the A7r5 smooth muscle cell line from rat thoracic aorta, using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. At a holding potential of -60 mV, application of vasopressin induced a nonselective cation conductance in voltage-clamped A7r5 cells. The current-voltage relation was linear, and currents reversed close to 0 mV regardless of the chloride gradient. The activation of the nonselective cation conductance by vasopressin was not affected by dialysing cells with Ca(2+)-free internal solution. LOE 908 blocked this current in a concentration-dependent manner with an IC50 of 560 nM, whereas dihydropyridine-sensitive Ba2+ current through voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels was blocked with an IC50 of 28 microM. Another organic blocker of receptor-mediated Ca2+ entry, 1-beta-[3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-propoxy]-4-methoxyphenethyl-1H-imidazole hydrochloride (SK&F 96365), blocked both, the vasopressin-induced nonselective conductance and the voltage-activated Ba2+ current with similar IC50 values of 13 microM and 8 microM, respectively. The rank order of potency of inorganic blockers on the vasopressin-induced inward current was Gd3+ > La3+ > Cd2+. Vasopressin-induced non-selective cation current was also observed in pertussis toxin-pretreated A7r5 cells but was completely abolished after infusion of the GDP analogue, guanosine 5'-O-[3-thio]diphosphate, from the patch pipette. Furthermore, vasopressin induced a transient outward current, suggesting a Ca(2+)-activated K(+)-current, which overlapped with the nonselective cation conductance.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Thapsigargin-induced [Ca2+]i increase activates sodium influx in human platelets

Using the fluorescent dyes sodium-binding-benzofuran-isophthalate and fura-2 cytosolic free sodium concentration ([Na+]i) and cytosolic free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) were investigated in intact human platelets in order to characterize the effect of elevated [Ca2+]i on [Na+]i. Spectrofluorometric studies of [Ca2+]i and [Na+]i in intact platelets were done after specific inhibition of endoplasmic Ca-ATPase by thapsigargin. Thapsigargin increased [Ca2+]i and [Na+]i in platelets. Addition of thapsigargin increased [Na+]i from 23.5 +/- 2.9 mM to 51.6 +/- 11.1 mM (mean +/- S.E., P < 0.05). The thapsigargin induced [Na+]i increase was also seen in the absence of extracellular calcium. In the absence of external sodium the thapsigargin induced [Na+]i increase was abolished, indicating that thapsigargin induced [Na+]i increase was due to sodium influx. Thapsigargin induced sodium influx was blocked after administration of NiCl2. The present results support the idea that the filling state of intracellular calcium stores regulate plasma permeability for sodium.

Capacitative Ca2+ entry regulates Ca(2+)-sensitive adenylyl cyclases

A number of the currently described adenylyl cyclase species can be regulated by Ca2+ in the submicromolar concentration range in in vitro assays. The regulatory significance of these observations hinges on whether a physiological elevation in intracellular Ca2+ can regulate these cyclase activities in intact cells. However, achieving a physiological elevation in cytosolic Ca2+ is complicated by the fact that hormonal increases in cytosolic Ca2+ can be accompanied by additional effects, such as liberation of beta gamma-subunits of G-proteins and activation of protein kinase C, which can have disparate type-specific effects on cyclase activities. Therefore we have devised a strategy based on capacitative Ca2+ entry to show that, when types I and VI adenylyl cyclase are expressed in human embryonic kidney 293 cells, they are stimulated and inhibited respectively by Ca2+ entry. Blockade of Ca2+ entry by La3+ ions blocks the effects of Ca2+ entry on cyclic AMP synthesis. These studies establish that adenylyl cyclases deemed to be sensitive to Ca2+ in in vitro assays can be regulated by physiological Ca2+ entry, and therefore, such cyclases are poised to respond to changes in intracellular Ca2+ in tissues in which they are expressed.

Studies on the mechanism of spasmolytic activity of (O-methyl-)-N-(2,6-dihydroxybenzoyl)tyramine, a constituent of Aniba riparia (Nees) Mez. (Lauraceae), in rat uterus, rabbit aorta and guinea-pig alveolar leucocytes

The mechanism of action of a nonspecific smooth muscle relaxant, (O-methyl-)-N-(2,6-dihydroxybenzoyl)tyramine (riparin), a constituent of Aniba riparia (Nees) Mez. (Lauraceae) was studied in relation to Ca2+ metabolism in smooth muscle tissues and in guinea-pig alveolar leucocytes. In rat depolarized uterus, riparin inhibited in a reversible and noncompetitive manner CaCl2-induced contraction, a response mediated through voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels. The pD2 value (mean +/- s.e.m.) for riparin was 4.98 +/- 0.06. When compared with sodium nitroprusside (IC50 2.5 microM), an antagonist of receptor-operated Ca2+ channels, riparin was ineffective in suppressing noradrenaline-induced sustained contractions of rabbit aortic strips. However, in the aorta, the compound inhibited intracellular calcium-dependent transient contractions of noradrenaline and riparin (IC50 10.1 microM) was approximately two and a half times more potent than procaine (IC50 25.5 microM) a known inhibitor. In guinea-pig alveolar leucocytes, riparin (IC50 3.2 microM) inhibited intracellular Ca2+ accumulation induced by the calcium ionophore A23187. The results suggest that the inhibition of Ca2+ influx and of Ca2+ release from intracellular stores contribute to the spasmolytic effects of riparin, which may not involve cyclic AMP generation as the levels of this nucleotide were not increased in alveolar macrophages treated with riparin (10-100 microM).

Ca(2+)-mobilising agonists potentiate forskolin- and VIP-stimulated cAMP production in human colonic cell line, HT29-cl.19A: role of [Ca2+]i and protein kinase C

This study has examined the involvement of the Ca(2+)-signalling pathway in the regulation of agonist-stimulated cAMP responses in the human colonic adenocarcinoma cell line, HT29-cl.19A. The muscarinic agonist, carbachol (CCh) stimualted rapid increases in cellular IP3 and cytosolic Ca2+, [Ca2+]i in HT29-cl.19A cells. These were accompanied by a small but significant increase in basal cAMP levels and a marked (3-4-fold) potentiation of both forskolin- (FSK) and VIP-stimulated cAMP generation. Similar effects were observed with two other Ca(2+)-mobilising agonists, neurotensin and ATP. The failure of CCh to elicit potentiation of adenylate cyclase in broken cell preparations indicated an indirect action. Potentiation could be mimicked by the calcium ionophore, ionomycin, and thapsigargin and inhibited 70-90% by depleting intracellular Ca2+ stores suggesting that a rise in [Ca2+]i is the primary mediator of this response. In contrast, increasing [Ca2+]i levels to > 500 nM caused a significant inhibition of FSK-stimulated cAMP generation. The involvement of protein kinase C (PKC) was also assessed. PKC activators phorbol 12,13 dibutyrate (PDB) and 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl glycerol (OAG) potentiated FSK-stimulated cAMP production by 50-70% though PDB markedly inhibited the cAMP response to the receptor-mediated cAMP agonist, VIP. Neither effect could be elicited by the inactive phorbol ester, 4 alpha-phorbol, 12,13 didecanoate (PDD). PKC inhibitors staurosporine and H7 reduced by approximately 25% the CCh-induced potentiation of FSK-stimulated cAMP generation. In conclusion, these results suggest that stimulation of the phosphoinositidase C pathway in HT29-cl.19A colonocytes induces a 'sensitisation' of the adenylate cyclase system resulting in a dramatic amplification of agonist-stimulated cAMP generation. Increases in [Ca2+]i appear to be an important mediator of potentiation though activation of PKC may also play a significant role.

Importance of inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate, intracellular Ca2+ release and myofilament Ca2+ sensitization in 5-hydroxytryptamine-evoked contraction of rabbit mesenteric artery

1. Small strips from third-order branches of rabbit mesenteric artery (approximately 150-200 microM wide) contracted in response to noradrenaline (10 microM) or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT; 10 microM) in oxygenated Krebs solution containing 2.5 mM Ca2+. In a Ca(2+)-free mock intracellular solution (0 Ca2+ plus 0.2 mM EGTA), noradrenaline (10 microM) and caffeine (10 mM) induced only a single, transient contraction in artery strips, while 5-HT (10 microM) failed to induce any response. 2. In strips of mesenteric artery which had been permeabilized with Staphylococcus alpha-toxin and bathed in Ca(2+)-free mock intracellular solution, noradrenaline (10 microM), caffeine (10 mM) and D-myo-inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate (IP3, 100 microM), but not 5-HT (10 or 100 microM) induced a transient contraction. In contrast to the non-permeabilized strips, contractions to noradrenaline, caffeine and IP3 were restored by prior incubation (10 min) in solution containing 0.08 microM Ca2+. The contractions to noradrenaline and IP3 in permeabilized muscle strips required the presence of 100 microM guanosine 5'-triphosphate (GTP), although in the absence of Ca2+. GTP alone did not induce contraction. 3. Exposure of permeabilized mesenteric artery strips to IP3 significantly reduced the subsequent contractile responses to caffeine. Contractile responses to caffeine and IP3 were abolished by the Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor, thapsigargin (1 microM). 4. Ca2+ (0.1-10 microM) induced concentration-dependent contraction in permeabilized artery strips. In strips which were submaximally contracted with 0.5 microM Ca2+/100 microM GTP, the subsequent addition of 5-HT (10 microM) stimulated further contraction. The protein kinase C inhibitor, H-7 (1 microM) abolished the 5-HT/GTP-induced contraction, but did not alter the contraction to Ca2+. 5. In non-permeabilized, endothelium-denuded segments of rabbit mesenteric artery bathed in Ca2+-replete Krebs solution, noradrenaline (10 microM) stimulated a rapid, transient accumulation of IP3. 5-HT(100 microM) failed to stimulate IP3 accumulation during exposure periods of up to 5 min. 5-HT (100 microM)did stimulate IP3 accumulation if the external K+ concentration was raised (to around 25 mM). This concentration of K+ alone did not stimulate IP3 production and the 5-HT-stimulated IP3 accumulation in the presence of elevated extracellular [K+] was abolished by the alpha l-adrenoceptor antagonist, prazosin(O.1 microM).6. These results suggest that intracellular Ca2+ release does not play an important role in 5-HT-induced smooth muscle contraction in the rabbit mesenteric artery. This is despite the fact that a significant intracellular Ca2+ pool is present in these cells, which can be discharged by either noradrenaline or IP3.However, 5-HT did stimulate smooth muscle contraction in the presence of raised intracellular calcium,suggesting that a component of the contraction to 5-HT will reflect an increase in myofilament Ca2+sensitivity, possibly due to the activation of protein kinase C.

Effect of inhibition of microsomal Ca(2+)-ATPase on cytoplasmic calcium and enzyme secretion in pancreatic acini

We used thapsigargin (TG), 2,5-di-tert-butyl-1,4-benzohydroquinone (BHQ) and cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), each of which inhibits microsomal Ca(2+)-ATPase, to evaluate the effects of this inhibition on cytoplasmic free calcium ([Ca2+]i) and secretagogue-stimulated enzyme secretion in rat pancreatic acini. Using single-cell microspectrofluorimetry of fura-2-loaded acini we found that all three agents caused a sustained increase in [Ca2+]i by mobilizing calcium from inositol-(1,4,5)-trisphosphate-sensitive intracellular calcium stores and by promoting influx of extracellular calcium. Concentrations of all three agents that increased [Ca2+]i potentiated the stimulation of enzyme secretion caused by secretagogues that activate adenylate cyclase but inhibited the stimulation of enzyme secretion caused by secretagogues that activate phospholipase C. With BHQ, potentiation of adenylate cyclase-mediated enzyme secretion occurred immediately whereas inhibition of phospholipase C-mediated enzyme secretion occurred only after several min of incubation. In addition, the effects of BHQ and CPA on both [Ca2+]i and secretagogue-stimulated enzyme secretion were reversed completely by washing whereas the actions of TG could not be reversed by washing. Concentrations of BHQ in excess of those that caused maximal changes in [Ca2+]i inhibited all modes of stimulated enzyme secretion by a mechanism that was apparently unrelated to changes in [Ca2+]i. Finally, in contrast to the findings with TG and BHQ, CPA inhibited bombesin-stimulated enzyme secretion over a range of concentrations that was at least 10-fold lower than the range of concentrations over which CPA potentiated VIP-stimulated enzyme secretion.

Histamine-evoked Ca2+ oscillations in HeLa cells are sensitive to methylxanthines but insensitive to ryanodine

The relative contribution of inositol-trisphosphate(InsP3)-sensitive and InsP3-insensitive Ca2+ stores to the agonist-evoked oscillatory release of Ca2+ in HeLa cells was investigated using fura-2 cytosolic Ca2+ measurements and whole-cell recordings of Ca(2+)-activated K+ currents [K(Ca2+)]. The experimental approach chosen consisted in studying the effects on Ca2+ oscillations of a variety of pharmacological agents such as ryanodine, ruthenium red, caffeine and theophylline, which are known to affect the Ca2+ channels responsible for Ca(2+)-induced Ca2+ release (CICR) in excitable cells. The results obtained essentially indicate (a) that neither ryanodine nor ruthenium red affects the generation of periodic K(Ca2+) current pulses in whole-cell experiments, and (b) that histamine-induced Ca2+ oscillations are inhibited by caffeine and theophylline in a dose-dependent manner. However, these methylxanthines were unable, at concentrations ranging from 0.1 mM to 10 mM, either to mobilize Ca2+ from internal stores or to block the initial Ca2+ rise evoked by histamine. In addition, both methylxanthines showed at high concentrations (10-20 mM) a moderate inhibitory action on the production of InsP3 induced by histamine. This effect was not essential to the action of caffeine on the oscillatory release of Ca2+, since an inhibition by caffeine of InsP3-induced Ca2+ oscillations was still observed in whole-cell experiments where the InsP3 concentration was kept constant. The results also show (c) that the application of either caffeine or theophylline during histamine stimulation leads systematically to an increased Ca2+ sequestration in InsP3-sensitive Ca2+ pools, the effect observed with theophylline being stronger than that resulting from the application of caffeine, and finally (d) that the action of caffeine and theophylline is not related to an increase in cAMP concentration since neither forskolin (10-50 microM) nor 8-Br-cAMP (1 mM) caused an inhibition of the InsP3-induced Ca2+ oscillations. It is concluded on the basis of these results that the agonist-evoked Ca2+ oscillations in HeLa cells do not involve directly or indirectly a ryanodine-sensitive Ca(2+)-release channel with CICR properties, but rather arise from a control by Ca2+ of the InsP3 Ca(2+)-release process.

Thapsigargin, a Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor, relaxes rat aorta via nitric oxide formation

Thapsigargin induced endothelium-dependent relaxation and cGMP production in rat thoracic aorta, and these effects were inhibited by nitric oxide (NO) pathway inhibitors, a calmodulin inhibitor and removal of Ca2+, suggesting that NO is involved in the thapsigargin-induced relaxation. Thapsigargin may deplete Ca2+ stores in the endothelial cells by inhibiting the Ca(2+)-ATPase, a Ca2+ pump, which in turn triggers influx of extracellular Ca2+, leading to activation of constitutive NO synthase and resultant NO generation. The NO thus formed may activate soluble guanylate cyclase to produce cGMP in the vascular smooth muscle.

The inositol phosphate-calcium signalling system in lacrimal gland cells

From the above discussion, it is clear that the regulation of Ca2+ signalling in exocrine cells is a complex process involving activation of both intracellular Ca2+ release as well as the entry of Ca2+ across the plasma membrane. A poorly understood mechanism links these two phases of Ca2+ signalling thereby providing both rapid as well as sustained signals for the initiation and maintenance of appropriate exocrine responses. Further work is needed to better understand the mechanisms controlling this important and ubiquitous signalling system.

Ionomycin activates electrogenic Ca2+ influx in rat thymic lymphocytes

Increases in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) after addition of the carboxylic Ca(2+)-transporting ionophore ionomycin have been reported to be inhibited by depolarization in mouse T- and B-lymphocytes, a result attributed to effects on the plasma-membrane Ca2+ pump. The present experiments were undertaken to test the hypothesis that activation of electrogenic Ca2+ uptake, due to release of Ca2+i from intracellular pools, underlies the membrane-potential (Em)-sensitivity of ionomycin-mediated Ca2+ uptake in T-lymphocytes. To address this proposal we have compared the characteristics of Ca2+ influx induced by ionomycin with those of Ca2+ influx activated by release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores (store-regulated Ca2+ uptake, SRCU). The endosomal Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor thapsigargin was used to bring about loss of Ca2+ from intracellular pools. In support of this hypothesis, we report that: (1) ionomycin releases Ca2+ from a thapsigargin-sensitive endosomal pool, a pool previously demonstrated to regulate electrogenic SRCU in rat thymic lymphocytes, (2) Ca2+ and Mn2+ uptake mediated by low doses of ionomycin are inhibited by compounds previously reported to inhibit SRCU, and (3) in the absence of SRCU, ionomycin-mediated Ca2+ uptake displays no sensitivity to Em. We conclude that activation of electrogenic SRCU can adequately account for the Em-sensitivity of Ca2+ flux previously attributed to alterations in Ca(2+)-pump activity. Such a mechanism of action may underlie previous reports of electrogenic Ca2+ transport mediated by ionomycin in other tissues.

Buffering of calcium influx by sarcoplasmic reticulum during the action potential in guinea-pig ventricular myocytes

1. Intracellular [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]i) transients, monitored by the fluorescent Ca2+ indicator, indo-1, and twitch contractions elicited by action potentials, by voltage clamp pulses or by rapid, brief pulses of caffeine, were measured in guinea-pig single ventricular myocytes. Experiments were designed to determine whether and to what extent the trans-sarcolemmal Ca2+ influx is immediately sequestered by the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). 2. Rapid, brief (100-200 ms) pulses of caffeine onto a rested myocyte elicited a [Ca2+]i transient and a contraction. Following exposure to specific SR inhibitors, ryanodine (100 nM) or thapsigargin (200 nM), the rapid application of caffeine onto a rested myocyte failed to elicit changes in [Ca2+]i or in cell length, indicating that caffeine increases [Ca2+]i by specifically discharging Ca2+ from the SR. In the absence of these inhibitors, a second pulse of caffeine, within 3 min following a prior pulse, failed to elicit a [Ca2+]i transient or contraction, indicating that a caffeine pulse depletes the SR releasable Ca2+ pool. 3. Following Ca2+ depletion of the SR by double caffeine pulses at rest, an electrical stimulation elicited a slow increase in [Ca2+]i, and, after a delay, a small, slow twitch contraction. The simultaneous application of caffeine and electrical stimulation of cells in which the SR was Ca2+ depleted elicited [Ca2+]i transients with an increased rate of rise and a larger amplitude (53 +/- 8 and 63 +/- 9% respectively; mean +/- S.E.M., n = 21) than those elicited by electrical stimulation alone. 4. Whether caffeine affected the L-type calcium current (ICa) elicited by electrical stimulation was determined under whole-cell voltage clamp. A caffeine pulse delivered at the onset of a depolarizing voltage clamp step also increased the rates of rise and the amplitudes of the [Ca2+]i transients and twitch contractions in cells in which the SR was depleted of Ca2+. However, Ca2+ influx via ICa decreased when caffeine was pulsed in conjunction with the voltage clamp, as the peak ICa was either unchanged or decreased while its inactivation was consistently accelerated. 5. Because the stimulation-dependent trans-sarcolemmal Ca2+ influx via ICa is not increased by a caffeine pulse, the augmentation of the rates of rise and the amplitudes of the electrically stimulated [Ca2+]i transients by caffeine pulsed in conjunction with the electrical stimulation in cells in which the SR had been depleted of Ca2+ indicates that a portion of Ca2+ influx during depolarization in the absence of caffeine is rapidly buffered by the SR.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Econazole inhibits thapsigargin-induced platelet calcium influx by mechanisms other than cytochrome P-450 inhibition

Cytochrome P-450 has been suggested as a mediator of the signal between depleted platelet calcium stores and an increase in plasma membrane permeability to calcium which follows depletion of the stores. This hypothesis is based on the observations that inhibitors of cytochrome P-450, such as the imidazole antifungal agents, also inhibit influx of a calcium surrogate (manganese) into calcium-depleted platelets. We tested the effects of econazole and of a cytochrome P-450 inhibitor, carbon monoxide (CO), on thapsigargin (TG)-induced platelet 45Ca2+ influx. TG specifically depletes internal calcium stores and activates store-regulated calcium influx. Econazole blocked 45Ca2+ influx when it was added before TG (IC50 11 microM). Econazole at a concentration (20 microM) that inhibited 83% of TG-induced calcium influx was not inhibitory to TG-induced calcium efflux from 45Ca(2+)-loaded platelets, and did not affect calcium fluxes in resting platelets. This econazole concentration was also inhibitory to calcium influx even when it was added after the stores had been calcium-depleted by EGTA and TG for 15 min and the signal to increase calcium influx had already been generated. Inhibition of cytochrome P-450 with CO bubbled through platelet suspensions did not change calcium influx in resting cells and potentiated TG-induced calcium influx (160% of control calcium accumulation at 20 min). This effect appeared to be concentration-dependent, such that a 5 min exposure to CO produced a greater influx potentiation than a 3 min exposure. These observations indicate that (1) cytochrome P-450 does not mediate store-regulated calcium influx, and (2) econazole probably inhibits store-regulated calcium influx by an alternative mechanism, such as interaction with plasma membrane calcium channels.

Role of intracellular Ca2+ stores in smooth muscle contractions of the guinea pig vas deferens

Guinea pig vas deferens was used as an animal model for alpha-1 adrenoceptor (alpha 1-receptor) mediated contractions in human hyperplastic prostatic tissue. The selective alpha 1-receptor agonist, phenylephrine (PE), induced fully reversible, dose-dependent contractions antagonized by increasing concentrations of the alpha 1-receptor blockers prazosin (1-100 nM) and YM 617 (0.1-10 nM). Removal of extracellular Ca2+ reduced PE-evoked contractions in a time-dependent manner. Nifedipine (1-1000 nM), a blocker of voltage-dependent L-type Ca2+ channels (VDCC), inhibited the PE-induced response by up to 65%. Removal of extracellular Ca2+ abolished the alpha 1-agonist reactivity in a time-dependent fashion. To elucidate the participation of intracellular Ca2+ stores in alpha 1-receptor-mediated contractions, the tissue was pretreated with ryanodine (10 microM) or thapsigargin (0.1 microM), established inhibitors of Ca2+ release from intracellular pools. Both substances reduced the PE contractions by up to 80%. Nifedipine suppressed the remaining contractions completely. This provides evidence that Ca2+ influx through VDCC and Ca2+ release from intracellular stores contribute to alpha 1-receptor-mediated contractions in the guinea pig vas deferens and may be important in obstructive benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Ca2+ release from platelet intracellular stores by thapsigargin and 2,5-di-(t-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone: relationship to Ca2+ pools and relevance in platelet activation

The effects of the Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitors thapsigargin (Tg) and 2,5-di-(t-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone (tBuBHQ) were examined by using Ca(2+)-regulatory systems of platelet mixed membranes, saponin-permeabilized and intact platelets. Both agents inhibit Ca(2+)-ATPase activities of platelet mixed membranes, without any effect on the basal Mg(2+)-ATPase activity. Tg is more effective (EC50 = 35 nM) than tBuBHQ (EC50 = 580 nM). The effect of the two inhibitors on 45Ca2+ release from saponin-permeabilized platelets has also been characterized. 45Ca2+ uptake into non-mitochondrial intracellular stores occurs via an ATP-dependent mechanism, and if added at equilibrium the second messenger Ins(1,4,5)P3 releases 50% of the accumulated 45Ca2+. Maximally effective concentrations of Tg (1 microM) and tBuBHQ (50 microM) release 77% and 68% of the accumulated 45Ca2+. Addition of Ins(1,4,5)P3 together with either Tg or tBuBHQ resulted in a non-additive release which was the same as with either Tg or tBuBHQ alone, indicating that the Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive Ca2+ pool was a subset of the pool that is sensitive to the Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitors. Release of 45Ca2+ by either Tg or tBuBHQ was not affected by heparin, which totally blocked Ins(1,4,5)P3-induced Ca2+ release, and Tg was found not to affect [32P]Ins(1,4,5)P3 binding to its receptor on mixed membranes. Thus both Tg and tBuBHQ release Ca2+ from a pool that totally overlaps the Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive pool without affecting Ins(1,4,5)P3 function. In intact indomethacin-treated Fura 2-loaded platelets, Tg and tBuBHQ cause Ca2+ elevation, arising from release from intracellular stores and influx from the outside. Both Tg and tBuBHQ elevated Ca2+ to similar levels, which were less and slower than those observed with thrombin. Addition of thrombin to cells already treated with Tg or tBuBHQ produced further elevation of Ca2+, indicating agonist utilization of a Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor-insensitive pool. In aggregation experiments Tg and tBuBHQ showed different functional effects. In indomethacin-treated cells Tg induces slow aggregation and secretion responses, whereas tBuBHQ only induces shape change. Both agents show synergistic secretory responses with the protein kinase C activator dioctanoylglycerol (DiC8). Tg also showed greater ability than tBuBHQ to release [3H]arachidonic acid (AA) from [3H]AA-labelled platelets. Additionally, in [32P]Pi-labelled platelets both Tg and tBuBHQ induced phosphorylation of myosin light chain, a 27 kDa protein and the 45 kDa protein pleckstrin, but Tg showed a greater ability than tBuBHQ to cause phosphorylation of pleckstrin. These studies indicate that Tg and tBuBHQ are effective in releasing the Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive Ca2+ pool in platelets.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Linkage of extracellular and intracellular control of cytosolic Ca2+ in rat osteoclasts in the presence of thapsigargin

Cytosolic [Ca2+] was measured in single osteoclasts using fura-2 in experiments investigating the effects of Ca2+ "receptor" activation using thapsigargin as a means of depleting intracellular Ca2+ stores. Application of 4 microM thapsigargin to osteoclasts in Ca(2+)-free solutions resulted in an elevation of cytosolic [Ca2+]. Under similar conditions, activation of the osteoclast Ca2+ receptor by the substitute divalent cation agonist, Ni2+, resulted in a transient elevation of cytosolic [Ca2+]. In both instances, restoration of extracellular [Ca2+] to 1.25 mM resulted in an "overshoot" of cytosolic [Ca2+]. Prior depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores by thapsigargin markedly reduced the magnitude of the cytosolic [Ca2+] response to a subsequent application of 5 mM Ni2+. The application of 2 microM thapsigargin to intercept the falling phase of the Ni(2+)-induced cytosolic Ca2+ signal resulted in a sustained elevation of cytosolic [Ca2+], which was terminated by a second application of the same Ni2+. Furthermore, the sustained elevation of cytosolic [Ca2+] induced by thapsigargin application alone was abolished by late application of Ni2+. We conclude that activation of the surface membrane Ca2+ receptor on the osteoclast results in the cytosolic release of Ca2+ from intracellular storage organelles; the refilling of such stores depends upon a thapsigargin-sensitive Ca(2+)-ATPase; store depletion induces capacitative Ca2+ influx; and the Ca2+ influx pathway is sensitive to blockade by Ni2+.

Multiple G-protein-dependent pathways mediate the antisecretory effects of somatostatin and clonidine in the HT29-19A colonic cell line

Using the functionally differentiated colonic cell line, HT29-19A, we have examined sites at which inhibitory G-proteins mediate the antisecretory actions of somatostatin (SST) and the alpha 2-adrenergic agonist, clonidine (CLON) at the epithelial level. Both agents caused a dose-dependent inhibition (EC50:SST 35 nM; CLON 225 nM) of Cl- secretion (assessed by changes in short circuit current) activated by cAMP-mediated agonists, PGE2 and cholera toxin. Inhibition was accompanied by a reduction in intracellular cAMP accumulation and could be blocked by pretreatment with pertussis toxin at a concentration (200 ng/ml) which activated ADP-ribosylation of a 41-kD inhibitory G protein in HT29-19A membranes. Secretion stimulated by the permeant cAMP analogue, dibutyryl cAMP, was also inhibited by SST and CLON (30-50%; P < 0.005), indicating additional inhibitory sites located distal to cAMP production. Both agents were effective inhibitors of secretion mediated through the Ca2+ signaling pathway. SST (1 microM) and CLON (10 microM) reduced the Isc response to the muscarinic agonist, carbachol, by 60-70%; inhibition was reversed in pertussis toxin-treated cells. These effects did not, however, involve inhibition of the carbachol-induced increase in cellular inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate levels or the rise in cytosolic calcium, [Ca]i. Inhibition by SST of secretion induced by phorbol 12,13 dibutyrate but not by the calcium agonist, thapsigargin, suggests that SST may act at a distal inhibitory site in the Ca(2+)-dependent secretory process activated by protein kinase C. We conclude that SST and alpha 2-adrenergic agonists can act directly on intestinal epithelial cells to exert a comprehensive inhibition of Cl- secretion mediated through both cAMP and Ca2+/protein kinase C signaling pathways. Inhibition is mediated via pertussis toxin-sensitive G-proteins at sites located both proximal and distal to the production of second messengers.

Modulation of K+ and Ca2+ channels by histamine H1-receptor stimulation in rabbit coronary artery cells

1. The modulation of whole-cell K+ and Ca2+ currents by stimulation of histamine H1-receptors in freshly isolated single smooth muscle cells from the rabbit coronary artery was characterized using the patch-clamp technique at 35 degrees C. Single-channel K+ currents were also analysed using the cell-attached patch configuration. 2. The histamine H1-receptor agonist, 2-(2-aminoethyl)pyridine (AEP) (0.1 mM), increased the amplitude of voltage-activated inward Ba2+ currents, recorded using the perforated-patch recording technique, which could be completely blocked by the dihydropyridine antagonist, nicardipine (1 microM). 3. Whole-cell outward K+ currents in rabbit coronary artery cells could be classified into at least two components: (a) a slowly inactivating, 4-aminopyridine (4-AP)-sensitive low-noise current, and (b) a non-inactivating, tetraethylammonium (TEA)-sensitive high-noise current. 4. AEP (0.1 mM) caused changes in whole-cell outward K+ currents which depended upon membrane voltage. Specifically: (a) AEP enhanced the amplitude of outward currents at voltages between -30 and 0 mV, and (b) AEP decreased the outward currents at more positive potentials. 5. The removal of extracellular Ca2+ caused little inhibition of the effects of AEP on K+ currents, whereas the depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores by pretreatment with ryanodine and caffeine prevented the effects of AEP on K+ channels. Moreover, acute exposure to ryanodine (10 microM) or thapsigargin (1 microM), a Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor, caused voltage-dependent changes in the outward currents similar to those observed with AEP. These results suggest that the voltage-dependent effects of AEP on K+ currents are mainly mediated by release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. 6. The dual stimulatory and inhibitory effect of AEP on whole-cell K+ currents was shown to be due to a differential effect on two distinct types of K+ channels. The stimulatory effect observed over the voltage range -30 to 0 mV was prevented by pretreatment of cells with low concentrations of TEA (1 mM), whereas the inhibitory effect observed at positive potentials was prevented by pretreatment of cells with 4-AP (3 mM). 7. Single-channel recordings revealed two types of unitary K+ currents with conductances of 225 and 70 pS in the cell-attached configuration with symmetrical K+ solutions (150 mM K+ in pipette-150 mM K+ in bath). Bath application of AEP (0.1 mM) caused a marked increase in the open probability of the large conductance channels.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Cytosolic calcium homeostasis in bovine parathyroid cells and its modulation by protein kinase C

1. The effects of protein kinase C (PKC) activators and inhibitors on the mechanisms regulating cytosolic Ca2+ homeostasis in dissociated bovine parathyroid cells loaded with fura-2 were examined. 2. Stepwise increases in the concentration of extracellular Ca2+ (from 0.5 to 2 or 3 mM) elicited transient followed by sustained increases in the concentration of intracellular free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i). Cytosolic Ca2+ transients reflected the mobilization of intracellular Ca2+ and influx of extracellular Ca2+ whereas sustained increases in [Ca2+]i resulted from the influx of extracellular Ca2+. Brief (1-2 min) pretreatment with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) shifted the concentration-response curve for extracellular Ca(2+)-induced cytosolic Ca2+ transients to the right without affecting the maximal response. Cytosolic Ca2+ transients elicited by extracellular Mg2+ were similarly affected by PMA. 3. These effects of PMA were mimicked by various other activators of PKC with the rank order of potency PMA > phorbol dibutyrate > bryostatin , > (-)indolactam V > mezerein. Isomers or analogues of these compounds that do not alter PKC activity (4 alpha-phorbols and (+)indolactam V) did not alter [Ca2+]i. 4. PKC activators depressed evoked increases in [Ca2+]i when influx of extracellular Ca2+ was blocked with Gd3+. Cytosolic Ca2+ transients elicited by extracellular Mg2+ in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ were similarly inhibited by PKC activators. Activation of PKC thus inhibits the mobilization of intracellular Ca2+ elicited by extracellular divalent cations. 5. Increases in the concentration of extracellular Ca2+ caused corresponding increases in the formation of [3H]inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate ([3H]InsP3). Pretreatment with PMA shifted the concentration-response curve for extracellular Ca(2+)-induced [3H]InsP3 formation to the right without affecting the maximal response. 6. PKC activators also caused some depression of steady-state increases in [Ca2+]i elicited by extracellular Ca2+. In contrast, PMA did not affect increases in [Ca2+]i elicited by ionomycin or thapsigargin. 7. Ba2+ was used to monitor divalent cation influx. PMA decreased the rate of rise of the fluorescent signal elicited by extracellular Ba2+. 8. All these effects of PKC activators on [Ca2+]i were blocked or reversed by staurosporine at concentrations (30-100 nM) that inhibited PKC activity in parathyroid cells. Staurosporine alone potentiated cytosolic Ca2+ responses evoked by submaximal concentrations of extracellular divalent cations. 9. PKC thus depresses both the mobilization of intracellular Ca2+ and the influx of extracellular Ca2+ in parathyroid cells. The effects on [Ca2+]i provide evidence for a Ca2+ receptor on the surface of parathyroid cells that uses transmembrane signalling mechanisms common to some other Ca(2+)-mobilizing receptors.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Mobilization of Ca2+ by thapsigargin and 2,5-di-(t-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone in permeabilized insulin-secreting RINm5F cells: evidence for separate uptake and release compartments in inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-sensitive Ca2+ pool

We characterized and directly compared the Ca(2+)-releasing actions of two inhibitors of endoplasmic-reticulum (ER) Ca(2+)-ATPase, thapsigargin and 2,5-di-(t-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone (tBuBHQ), in electropermeabilized insulin-secreting RINm5F cells. Ambient free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]) was monitored by Ca(2+)-selective mini-electrodes. After ATP-dependent Ca2+ uptake, thapsigargin and tBuBHQ released Ca2+ with and EC50 of approximately 37 nM and approximately 2 microM respectively. Both agents mobilized Ca2+ predominantly from the Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive Ca2+ pool, and in this respect thapsigargin was more specific than tBuBHQ. The total increase in [Ca2+] obtained with thapsigargin and Ins(1,4,5)P3 was, on the average, only 7% greater than that with Ins(1,4,5)P3 alone. In contrast, the total increase in [Ca2+] obtained with tBuBHQ and Ins(1,4,5)P3 was 33% greater than that obtained with only InsP3 (P < 0.05). Although Ca2+ was rapidly mobilized by thapsigargin and tBuBHQ, complete depletion of the Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive Ca2+ pool was difficult to achieve. After the release by thapsigargin or tBuBHQ, Ins(1,4,5)P3 induced additional Ca2+ release. The additional Ins(1,4,5)P3-induced Ca2+ release was not altered by supramaximal concentrations of thapsigargin and tBuBHQ, or by Bafilomycin A1, an inhibitor of V-type ATPases, but was decreased by prolonged treatment with the ER Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitors. These results suggest the existence of distinct uptake and release compartments within the Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive Ca2+ pool. When treated with the inhibitors, the two compartments became distinguishable on the basis of their Ca2+ permeability. Apparently, thapsigargin and tBuBHQ readily mobilized Ca2+ from the uptake compartment, whereas Ca2+ from the release compartment could be mobilized only very slowly, in the absence of Ins(1,4,5)P3.

Altered calcium regulation in SV40-transformed Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts

Calcium homeostasis has long been thought to be altered in transformed cells but mechanisms have not been established. In this study, the photoprotein, aequorin, was used to examine calcium regulation in 3T3 and SV40-transformed 3T3 cells. It was found that calcium transients induced by bradykinin or serum in serum-starved cells are lower and delayed in the transformed cells and decay kinetics are altered. These changes are not related to differences in cell cycle distribution. Though the serum transient is insensitive to nifedipine, verapamil, or lanthanum, removal of extracellular calcium accelerates transient decay in both cell types. Treatment of unstimulated cells with the ER Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor, thapsigargin, causes a 4-5-fold greater increase in [Ca2+]i in the transformed than in the nontransformed cells. Following serum stimulation, transformed cells still exhibit a large thapsigargin-induced increase in [Ca2+]i whereas the response in nontransformed cells is nearly abolished. When the 3T3 or SV3T3 cells are exposed to serum or thapsigargin in the absence of extracellular calcium and subsequently exposed to 11.8 mM Ca2+, a much greater influx of calcium again occurs in the SV3T3 cells. The observed changes in SV3T3 cells are most likely due to an alteration in a capacitative mechanism which regulates influx of calcium through the plasma membrane.

[Calcium and liver]

Cells expand energy to lower the concentration of free calcium in the cytosol ([Ca2+]i) to a very low level. Extracellular Ca2+ entering via channels situated in the plasma membrane is expelled into the extracellular medium by a Ca(2+)-Mg(2+)-ATPase or by Na(+)-Ca2+ exchangers. The Ca2+ that enters the cell is sequestered, once inside the cytosol, by a Ca(2+)-Mg(2+)-ATPase, which concentrates Ca2+ in specialized domains of the endoplasmic reticulum. The nucleus and the mitochondria also concentrate Ca2+, but less efficiently. The stimulation of numerous receptors by hormones, growth factors and neurotransmitters coupled to GTP-binding proteins provokes a rapid increase in [Ca2+]i by mobilizing Ca2+ from intra- and extracellular compartments. Membrane coupling is ensured by the activation of a phospholipase C-beta, which hydrolyses a doubly phosphorylated phosphoinositide, phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns(4,5)P2). The inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate (InsP3) consequently formed binds to a receptor consisting in 4 homologous of 250 kDa each. The InsP3 receptor has been localized to a specialized region, rich in Ca2+, of the endoplasmic reticulum. The receptor has been purified and its sequence obtained. Reincorporated into planar bilayers, it displays the properties of a channel. In the cell, opening of the InsP3 receptor-channel provokes the release of the Ca2+ accumulated within the endoplasmic reticulum. Analyzing the kinetics of channel opening by the methods of rapid mixing, rapid filtration or flash photolysis of caged InsP3 has revealed that InsP3 opens the channel within a very short time, probably less than 30 msec. The InsP3 receptor-channel is autoregenerative. With the sustained stimulation of a Ca2+ influx the release of Ca2+ leads to an augmentation of [Ca2+]i, which is responsible for triggering cellular responses. The complexity of Ca2+ signals produced by stimulated cells has been revealed by studies in which highly effective techniques have been used to detect Ca2+ ions in the cytosol, such as bioluminescent proteins, fluorescent indicators or ionic currents sensitive to Ca2+. It appears that variations in [Ca2+]i induced by stimulation consist of oscillations of which the frequency, but not the amplitude, depends on the concentration of the hormone. Moreover, by summing the images picked up with a video recorder, it has been possible to demonstrate the changes in [Ca2+]i at the subcellular level and the waves of Ca2+ in stimulated cells.

Alpha 2-adrenergic inhibition of Cl- transport by opercular epithelium is mediated by intracellular Ca2+

We isolated the opercular epithelium of sea-water killifish (Fundulus heteroclitus) to study the mediation of catecholamine inhibition of Cl- secretion. The receptors are alpha 2-adrenergic, as they have a high affinity for the alpha 2-adrenergic agonist clonidine over phenylephrine and clonidine action is blocked by yohimbine. Pertussis toxin and indomethacin did not block the clonidine effect; hence inhibitory guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (Gi proteins) and prostaglandins (respectively) are not involved. Intracellular pH (pHi) of single chloride cells was measured microspectrofluorometrically and resting pHi was 7.22 +/- 0.03. However, pHi was unaffected by clonidine; hence pHi and Na+/H+ exchange are not involved. The lipoxygenase inhibitors nordihydroguaiaretic acid and baicalein and the lipoxygenase products (12S)- and (12R)-12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid stimulated Cl- secretion. Protein kinase C is an unlikely site of action because the diacylglycerol kinase inhibitor R59022 had no effect alone and did not block the clonidine effect. Ionomycin (1 microM) in normal but not low-Ca2+ solutions mimicked the action of clonidine and both inhibitions were reversible by isoproterenol. Thapsigargin, a releaser of intracellular Ca2+, inhibited Cl- secretion and this effect was reduced in low-Ca2+ solutions. Low-Ca2+ solutions also blunted but did not block entirely the clonidine response, indicating that the primary Ca2+ release was from intracellular stores. Whereas alpha 1-adrenergic receptors commonly act via the Ca2+/inositol trisphosphate pathway, to our knowledge this is the first report of a Ca(2+)-mediated alpha 2-adrenergic response in a nonmammalian vertebrate.

Activation by calcium alone of chloride secretion in T84 epithelial cells

1. The goal of this study was to determine if an increase in cytoplasmic calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i), in the absence of additional second messengers derived from membrane phospholipid turnover, is a sufficient signal to induce chloride secretion across monolayers of the human colonic epithelial line, T84. 2. Thapsigargin was used to increase [Ca2+]i by inhibiting the endomembrane Ca(2+)-ATPase. [Ca2+]i was monitored in monolayers by fura-2 fluorescence spectroscopy, chloride secretion by measuring changes in short circuit current (Isc) in modified Ussing chambers, and inositol phosphates were measured by radio-h.p.l.c. of extracts of cells prelabelled with [3H]-inositol. 3. Thapsigargin increased [Ca2+]i and Isc in parallel, without increasing any inositol phosphates. The effect of thapsigargin on Isc was abolished by the intracellular calcium chelator, bis-(o-aminophenoxy)-ethane-N,N,N',N"-tetraacetic acid (BAPTA). 4. Increasing [Ca2+]i with thapsigargin did not prevent a subsequent calcium response to carbachol or histamine if extracellular calcium was available. In the absence of extracellular calcium, only one such release of calcium to hormonal stimulation occurred when cells were pretreated with thapsigargin, and a second response to either carbachol histamine was essentially abolished. 5. Addition of carbachol or histamine to thapsigargin-treated cells mounted in Ussing chambers caused a transient further increase in Isc followed by termination of the response, even though [Ca2+]i continued to rise. 6. We conclude that an elevation in [Ca2+]i is a sufficient signal to induce chloride secretion in T84 cells. Rather than being required to stimulate secretory responses, additional second messengers induced by hormonal secretagogues (such as inositol phosphates) may in fact serve to limit the secretory response.

Intraluminal calcium of the liver endoplasmic reticulum stimulates the glucuronidation of p-nitrophenol

The relationship between the intraluminal Ca2+ content of endoplasmic reticulum and the rate of the glucuronidation of p-nitrophenol was investigated in isolated rat hepatocytes. Different agents which decrease the Ca2+ level in the endoplasmic reticulum [calcium ionophores (A23187, ionomycin) or Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitors(thapsigargin,2,5-di-(t-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone+ ++)] inhibited the conjugation of p-nitrophenol. Depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores by preincubation of hepatocytes in the absence of free Ca2+ (in the presence of excess EGTA) also decreased the rate of glucuronidation; Ca2+ re-admission to EGTA-treated hepatocytes restored glucuronidation. In intact liver microsomes the p-nitrophenol UDP-glucuronosyl-transferase activity was not modified by varying the external free Ca2+ concentrations within a cytosol-like range. Emptying of the Ca2+ from the lumen of microsomal vesicles by A23187, after MgATP-stimulated Ca2+ sequestration, decreased the glucuronidation of p-nitrophenol. A similar effect was observed in filipin-permeabilized hepatocytes. In native and in detergent-treated microsomes, Ca2+ (1-10 mM) increased the p-nitrophenol UDP-glucuronosyltransferase activity. It is suggested that the physiological concentration of Ca2+ in the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum is necessary for the optimal activity of p-nitrophenol UDP-glucuronosyltransferase; the depletion of Ca2+ decreases the activity of the enzyme.

Isolation of chromaffin cell thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ store in light microsomes from bovine adrenal medulla

1. A subcellular fractionation procedure for bovine adrenal glands was designed with the aim to study the biochemical properties of Ca2+ stores in chromaffin cells. 2. The thapsigargin-sensitive compartment of Ca2+ stores was found to be highly enriched in a light microsomal fraction (LMF) on a 15-30% linear sucrose gradient, and was found to be essentially devoid of contamination by plasma, mitochondrial or secretory granule membranes. 3. A Ca(2+)-pumping ATPase was identified in this LMF as a 97 kDa protein forming an acid-stable, Ca(2+)-dependent, thapsigargin-sensitive phosphorylated intermediate upon incubation with [gamma-32P]ATP, suggesting this protein to represent a SERCA-3 isoform of Ca2+ ATPases. 4. A major 162 kDa protein, previously demonstrated in the isolated chromaffin cells, was enriched in the LMF, distributing on sucrose gradients in parallel with the thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ uptake. 5. LMF appears to represent a part of the thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ store of chromaffin cells, and should be useful for further studies of the store properties at the subcellular and molecular level.

Differential changes of adrenoceptor- and muscarinic receptor-linked prostacyclin synthesis by the aorta and urinary bladder of the diabetic rat

1. The effect of experimental diabetes mellitus (DM; hyperglycaemic, non-ketototic; 2 months duration) in the rat on receptor-linked prostacyclin (PGI2) synthesis (measured as 6-oxo-PGF1 alpha by radioimmunoassay) was studied in the aorta and urinary bladder using adrenaline, angiotensin II (AII) and acetylcholine (ACh). Signal transduction systems were studied via stimulation of PGI2 synthesis with phorbol ester dibutyrate (PDBU; a protein kinase C activator [PKC]), Ca2+ ionophore A23187 (A23187) and thapsigargin (both elevate intracellular Ca2+, activating phospholipase A2 [PLA2]) and arachidonate (AA; substrate for PGI2 synthesis). 2. In response to adrenaline, AII and phorbol ester, aortic PGI2 release was markedly reduced (all > 75%) in diabetic rats compared to controls. EC50s of the dose-response curves for adrenaline, AII and PDBU were also markedly increased in aortae from DM rats compared to controls. Although there was decreased output of PGI2 in response to A23187 by aortae from diabetic rats compared to controls, there was no difference in the EC50s (mean +/- s.e. mean: diabetic, 2.7 +/- 0.2 x 10(-6) M; controls 2 +/- 0.18 x 10(-6) M). There were no differences in PGI2 release (or in the EC50s) in response to thapsigargin or AA between aortae from diabetic and control rats. 3. In the urinary bladder, there was a marked increase in PGI2 output in response to ACh and a marked decrease in EC50s for the ACh-PGI2 dose-response curves in diabetic rats (EC50 = 5.8 +/- 0.32 x 10(-7) M) compared to controls (EC50 = 2.2 +/- 0.15 x 10(-6) M). Although there was an increase in PGI2 output in the urinary bladders from diabetic rats in response to A23187, there were no differences in the EC50s (control, 1.8 +/- 0.2 x 10-6 M; diabetic, 1.1 +/- 0.15 X 10-6 M). In the urinary bladders, there were no differences in PGI2 output (or the EC50s) in response to PDBU, thapsigargin or AA between diabetic or control rats.4. These data indicate that: (i) reduced PGI2 synthesis coupled to adrenoceptors and AII receptors in the aortae of diabetic rats may be due to diminished PKC activity and not to changes in receptor density and/or affinity, Ca2+ stores, PLA2, cyclo-oxygenase or PGI2 synthase; (ii) the diametrically opposite effect of DM on ACh-stimulated PGI2 synthesis is not due to an increase in PKC activity, but possibly to an increase in muscarine receptor number and/or affinity; (iii) changes in receptor-linked PGI2 synthesis are not ubiquitous in experimental DM and may be organ-specific.

Refilling the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-sensitive Ca2+ store in neuroblastoma x glioma hybrid NG108-15 cells

Bradykinin-induced increases in the intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) were recorded in single NG108-15 cells with indo-1-based dual-emission microfluorimetry (50% effective concentration, 16 nM). A 1-min exposure to 30 nM bradykinin completely depleted the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-sensitive Ca2+ store; refilling the store required extracellular Ca2+ (half time, 2 min). Refilling the IP3-sensitive store was completely blocked by 1 microM La3+ and 10 microM nitrendipine, but not 10 microM verapamil, 10 microM flunarizine, 1 microM nitrendipine, or 0.1 microM La3+. Thapsigargin irreversibly depleted the Ca2+ store and prevented its refilling (half-maximal inhibitory concentration, 3 nM). Influx of Ca2+ across the plasma membrane did not increase after depletion of the IP3-sensitive store by exposure to bradykinin, although maintained presence of the agonist produced significant Ca2+ influx. Similarly, Mn2+ and Ba2+ influx, as measured by indo-1 quenching and spectral shifts, did not increase following depletion of IP3-sensitive store. In contrast to depletion of the IP3-sensitive Ca2+ store by bradykinin, thapsigargin (10 nM) treatment produced Ca2+ and Ba2+ influx. We conclude that after Ca2+ mobilization, the IP3-sensitive Ca2+ store in NG108-15 cells is refilled with cytoplasmic Ca2+ via a thapsigargin-sensitive Ca(2+)-Mg(2+)-ATPase. Cytoplasmic Ca2+ is replenished by a persistent leak of Ca2+ across the plasma membrane. This leak is not modulated by the status of the intracellular Ca2+ store. In NG108-15 cells, agonist and thapsigargin-evoked Ca2+ entry are mediated by activation of plasmalemmal Ca2+ channels independent of the status of the IP3-sensitive intracellular Ca2+ store.

Inhibition of Ca2+ transport pathways in thymic lymphocytes by econazole, miconazole, and SKF 96365

Cytochrome P-450 has been proposed to underlie the mechanism of regulation of the plasma membrane Ca2+ permeability by the Ca2+ content of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-sensitive Ca2+ pool. We have investigated the effects on divalent cation uptake in rat thymic lymphocytes of three structurally related imidazole reagents reported to inhibit redox mechanisms. Changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration and intracellular Mn2+ concentration were measured fluorimetrically with indo-1 and/or quin-2. Econazole, miconazole, and SKF 96365 were found to be potent blockers of Ca2+ and Mn2+ uptake activated by release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores induced by thapsigargin. Additionally, we found that concentrations of these agents required to abolish divalent cation uptake also released Ca2+ from the thapsigargin-sensitive intracellular stores, consistent with inhibition of the endosomal Ca(2+)-ATPase. In agreement with this suggestion, we have found that all three of these agents are potent inhibitors of isolated sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase. We conclude that econazole, miconazole, and SKF 96365 inhibit cytochrome P-450-independent filling of intracellular Ca2+ pools, as well as store-regulated Ca2+ entry, and caution against the use of these compounds as selective inhibitors of cytochrome P-450.

Mechanisms of intercellular calcium signaling in glial cells studied with dantrolene and thapsigargin

Mechanical stimulation of a single cell in a primary mixed glial cell culture induced a wave of increased intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) that was communicated to surrounding cells. Following propagation of the Ca2+ wave, many cells showed asynchronous oscillations in [Ca2+]i. Dantrolene sodium (10 microM) inhibited the increase in [Ca2+]i associated with this Ca2+ wave by 60-80%, and prevented subsequent Ca2+ oscillations. Despite the markedly decreased magnitude of the increase in [Ca2+]i, the rate of propagation and the extent of communication of the Ca2+ wave were similar to those prior to the addition of dantrolene. Thapsigargin (10 nM to 1 microM) induced an initial increase in [Ca2+]i ranging from 100 nM to 500 nM in all cells that was followed by a recovery of [Ca2+]i to near resting levels in most cells. Transient exposure to thapsigargin for 2 min irreversibly blocked communication of Ca2+ wave from the stimulated cell to adjacent cells. Glutamate (50 microM) induced an initial increase in [Ca2+]i in most cells that was followed by sustained oscillations in [Ca2+]i in some cells. Dantrolene (10 microM) inhibited this initial [Ca2+]i increase caused by glutamate by 65-90% and abolished subsequent oscillations. Thapsigargin (10 nM to 1 micron) abolished the response to glutamate in over 99% of cells. These results suggest that while both dantrolene and thapsigargin inhibit intracellular Ca2+ release, only thapsigargin affects the mechanism that mediates intercellular communication of Ca2+ waves. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that inositol trisphosphate (IP3) mediates the propagation of Ca2+ waves whereas Ca(2+)-induced Ca2+ release amplifies Ca2+ waves and generates subsequent Ca2+ oscillations.

Effects of thapsigargin and ryanodine on vascular contractility: cross-talk between sarcoplasmic reticulum and plasmalemma

Thapsigargin and ryanodine are proposed to interfere with Ca2+ storage in sarcoplasmic reticulum by different mechanisms. Thapsigargin inhibits Ca2+ transport into and ryanodine enhances Ca2+ out of the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Contractility studies were performed in the rat aorta and dog mesenteric artery. Ryanodine was found to reduce phenylephrine-induced (10 microM) contraction in Ca(2+)-free medium of rat aorta and dog mesenteric artery in a concentration-dependent manner. Each agent alone caused a slow contraction in the rat aorta. In this tissue, the tension caused by ryanodine (30 microM) but not that by thapsigargin (1 microM) was found to be dependent on the status of the sarcoplasmic reticulum: prior stimulation with K+ (60 mM) enhanced the rate of development of ryanodine-induced tension compared with when the sarcoplasmic reticulum was previously depleted with phenylephrine stimulation in Ca(2+)-free medium. Sodium nitroprusside (1 microM) or isoproterenol (1 microM) fully antagonized the contraction induced by ryanodine or phenylephrine. However, thapsigargin-induced contraction was antagonized fully by sodium nitroprusside and only partially by isoproterenol. This result suggests that cAMP elevation by isoproterenol required a functioning sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump for its relaxant effect while cGMP elevation by sodium nitroprusside did not. These findings are consistent with the view that ryanodine promotes Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum and that thapsigargin inhibits the ability of cAMP to stimulate Ca2+ uptake into the store by blocking its Ca2+ pump. In the dog mesenteric artery, when the phenylephrine-sensitive Ca2+ pool was emptied and thapsigargin was added to block Ca2+ uptake into the store, restoration of Ca2+ in the Ca(2+)-free medium caused a transient contraction (absent in controls). This contraction was replaced by a significantly larger amplitude and more sustained contraction in low Na+ medium indicating the involvement of the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger in the homeostasis of cytosolic [Ca2+]. In the presence of nifedipine (2 microM), repletion of the phenylephrine-sensitive store was inhibited. It is possible that refilling occurs in part through L-type Ca2+ channels.

Nonselective cation channels: physiological and pharmacological modulations of channel activity

Cation channels play a major role in fast and sustained cellular responses to hormones and neurotransmitters. They contribute to depolarization of the membrane and--in most cases--to an increase in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration. Nonselective cation channels presumably form a large family of diverse channels which are modulated by various extracellular and intracellular signals. Structure and regulation of ligand-operated and cyclic nucleotide-activated nonselective cation channels found in synapses and sensory receptor cells, respectively, are well documented; none of the structures of other cation channels are known. Except for ligand-operated and stretch-activated channels, G-proteins form the link between the involved receptors and signalling cascades stimulating nonselective cation channels. Observed in numerous cellular systems is hormonal activation of cation channels by hormones or neurotransmitters interacting with heptahelical receptors inducing a phosphoinositide breakdown (PI response); several pathways stimulated within the PI response may generate signals involved in cation channel activation. Pharmacological modifications of nonselective cation channels by inorganic and organic blockers are so far extremely limited; various blockers have been described but unfortunately lack high specificity for these channels.

Inhibition of protein synthesis and early protein processing by thapsigargin in cultured cells

Thapsigargin, a tumour-promoting sesquiterpene lactone, selectively inhibits the Ca(2+)-ATPase responsible for Ca2+ accumulation by the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Mobilization of ER-sequestered Ca2+ to the cytosol and to the extracellular fluid subsequently ensues, with concomitant alteration of cellular functions. Thapsigargin was found to serve as a rapid, potent and efficacious inhibitor of amino acid incorporation in cultured mammalian cells. At concentrations mobilizing cell-associated Ca2+ to the extracellular fluid, thapsigargin provoked extensive inhibition of protein synthesis within 10 min. The inhibition in GH3 pituitary cells involved the synthesis of almost all polypeptides, was not associated with increased cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), and was not reversed at high extracellular Ca2+. The transient rise in [Ca2+]i triggered by ionomycin was diminished by thapsigargin. Polysomes failed to accumulate in the presence of the drug, indicative of impaired translational initiation. With longer (1-3 h) exposures to thapsigargin, recovery of translational activity was observed accompanied by increased synthesis of the ER protein glucose-regulated stress protein 78 or immunoglobulin heavy-chain binding protein ('GRP78/BiP') and its mRNA. Such inductions were comparable with those observed previously with Ca2+ ionophores which mobilize the cation from all intracellular sequestered sites. Actin mRNA concentrations declined significantly during such treatments. In HepG2 cells processing and secretion of the glycoprotein alpha 1-antitrypsin were rapidly suppressed by thapsigargin. Ca2+ sequestered specifically by the ER is concluded to be essential for optimal protein synthesis and processing. These rapid effects of thapsigargin on mRNA translation, protein processing and gene expression should be considered when evaluating potential mechanisms by which this tumour promoter influences cellular events.

A patch-clamp study of the Ca2+ mobilization from internal stores in bovine aortic endothelial cells. II. Effects of thapsigargin on the cellular Ca2+ homeostasis

Evidence was provided, in the preceding paper (Thuringer & Sauvé, 1992), that the external Ca(2+)-dependent phase of the Ca2+ signals evoked by bradykinin (BK) or caffeine in bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAE), differ in their respective sensitivity to procaine. To examine whether the emptying of the InsP3-sensitive Ca2+ store is the signal for activating the agonist-evoked Ca2+ entry, we have investigated the effects of thapsigargin (TSG), a known inhibitor of the microsomal Ca(2+)-ATPase activity in a variety of cell types, via the activity of calcium-activated potassium channels [K(Ca2+) channels]. In cell-attached experiments, the external application of TSG caused a sustained or oscillatory activation of K(Ca2+) channels depending on both the cells and doses tested. The TSG-evoked channel activity could be reversibly blocked by removing extracellular Ca2+, and strongly decreased by adding 10 mM procaine to the bath medium. In Ca(2+)-free external conditions, TSG did not promote an apparent Ca2+ discharge from internal stores but prevented in a dose- and time-dependent manner the subsequent agonist-evoked channel activity related to the release of internally sequestered Ca2+. These results confirm that TSG and BK release Ca2+ from the same internal stores but with different kinetics. Because the channel response to caffeine was found to be poorly sensitive to procaine, in contrast to that evoked by BK and TSG, it may be concluded that both BK and TSG activate the same Ca2+ entry pathway. Therefore, the emptying of the InsP3-sensitive Ca2+ store is likely to be the main signal for activating the agonist-evoked Ca2+ entry in BAE cells.

Inhibition of cyclic AMP accumulation in intact NCB-20 cells as a direct result of elevation of cytosolic Ca2+

Earlier studies established that adenylyl cyclase in NCB-20 cell plasma membranes is inhibited by concentrations of Ca2+ that are achieved in intact cells. The present studies were undertaken to prove that agents such as bradykinin and ATP, which elevate the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) from internal stores in NCB-20 cells, could inhibit cyclic AMP (cAMP) accumulation as a result of their mobilization of [Ca2+]i and not by other mechanisms. Both bradykinin and ATP transiently inhibited [3H]cAMP accumulation in parallel with their transient mobilization of [Ca2+]i. The [Ca2+]i rise stimulated by bradykinin could be blocked by treatment with thapsigargin; this thapsigargin treatment precluded the inhibition of cAMP accumulation mediated by bradykinin (and ATP). A rapid rise in [Ca2+]i, as elicited by bradykinin, rather than the slow rise evoked by thapsigargin was required for inhibition of [3H]cAMP accumulation. Desensitization of protein kinase C did not modify the inhibitory action of bradykinin on [3H]cAMP. Effects of Ca2+ on phosphodiesterase were also excluded in the present studies. The accumulated data are consistent with the hypothesis that hormonal mobilization of [Ca2+]i leads directly to the inhibition of cAMP accumulation in these cells and presumably in other cells that express the Ca(2+)-inhibitable form of adenylyl cyclase.

Effect of thapsigargin and caffeine on Ca2+ homeostasis in HeLa cells: implications for histamine-induced Ca2+ oscillations

Several studies have already established that the stimulation of H1 receptors by exogenous histamine induces intracellular Ca2+ oscillations in HeLa cells. The molecular mechanism underlying this oscillatory process remains, however, unclear. A series of fura-2 experiments was undertaken in which the nature of the Ca2+ pools involved in the histamine-induced Ca2+ oscillations was investigated using the tumour promoter agent thapsigargin (TG) and the Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+)-release promoter, caffeine. The results obtained indicate first that TG causes a gradual increase in cytosolic Ca2+ without inducing internal Ca2+ oscillations, and second that TG and histamine share common internal Ca2+ storage sites. The latter conclusion was derived from experiments performed in the absence of external Ca2+, where the addition of TG before histamine resulted in a total inhibition of the Ca2+ response linked to H1 receptor stimulation, whereas the addition of histamine before TG decreased by more than 90% the TG-induced Ca2+ release. Finally; TG was found to inhibit irreversibly histamine-induced Ca2+ oscillations when added to the bathing medium during the oscillatory process. The effect of caffeine at concentrations ranging from 1 mM to 10 mM on intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis was also investigated. The results obtained show that caffeine does not affect systematically the internal Ca2+ concentration in resting and TG-stimulated HeLa cells, but increases the Ca2+ sequestration ability of inositol-trisphosphate (InsP3)-related Ca2+ stores.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)