The regulation of tyrosine kinase signalling pathways by growth factor and G-protein-coupled receptors

Angiotensin II activates phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase in vascular smooth muscle cells

Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) is an important component of the signal transduction systems activated by tyrosine kinase receptors. It has not been established, however, whether PI3K is also an essential mediator for G protein-coupled receptors. The potential involvement of PI3K in G protein-linked angiotensin II (Ang II)-dependent signaling was assessed in a primary cell culture system of porcine coronary artery smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Treatment of quiescent SMCs with Ang II (10(-5) to 10(-8) mol/L) resulted in a dose-dependent activation of PI3K when assayed in vivo and in vitro. The Ang II receptor antagonists losartan and PD123319 were used to establish that Ang II stimulates PI3K through the Ang II type-1 (AT1) receptor. Immunofluorescent microscopy revealed that Ang II (10(-6) mol/L) stimulated the translocation of p85, the regulatory subunit of PI3K, from the perinuclear region to distinct foci throughout the cell within 15 minutes. Western blot analysis of p85 subcellular distribution demonstrated that p85 concentrations were also increased within 15 minutes in the membrane fraction and concomitantly decreased in the cytoskeletal and nuclear fractions. These changes in PI3K location and activity were paralleled by increased tyrosine phosphorylation of p85. A potential correlation between angiotensin-mediated PI3K activation and SMC growth was found using LY294002, a specific inhibitor of PI3K, which blocked the increase in DNA and RNA synthesis as well as cellular hyperplasia generated by Ang II (10(-6) mol/L) stimulation of quiescent SMCs. These data indicate that PI3K may operate as a mediator of vascular SMC growth after stimulation with Ang II.

Ca2+ and protein kinase C-dependent mechanisms involved in gastrin-induced Shc/Grb2 complex formation and P44-mitogen-activated protein kinase activation

The proliferative effects of gastrin on normal and neoplastic gastro-intestinal tissues have been shown to be mediated by the gastrin/CCKB (G/CCKB) G-protein-coupled receptors. We have recently reported that gastrin stimulates the tyrosine phosphorylation of Shc proteins and their subsequent association with the Grb2/Sos complex, leading to mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation, a pathway known to play an important role in cell proliferation. We undertook the present study to characterize the signalling pathways used by this receptor to mediate the activation of the Shc/Grb2 complex. Since G/CCKB receptor occupancy leads to the activation of the phospholipase C (PLC)/protein kinase C (PKC) pathway, we examined whether PKC stimulation and Ca2+ mobilization contribute to the phosphorylation of Shc proteins and their association with Grb2 in response to gastrin. Our results indicate that Shc proteins are tyrosine phosphorylated and associate with Grb2 in response to phorbol esters, suggesting that activation of PKC is a potential signalling pathway leading to activation of the Shc/Grb2 complex. Inhibition of PKC by GF109203X completely blocked the effect of PMA on Shc tyrosine phosphorylation and its subsequent association with Grb2, but had a partial inhibitory effect on the response to gastrin. Depletion of the intracellular Ca2+ pools by treatment with thapsigargin blocked the increase in intracellular free calcium concentration induced by gastrin and diminished the ability of the peptide to stimulate Shc phosphorylation and recruitment of Grb2. In addition, removal of extracellular Ca2+ partially inhibited the effect of gastrin on Shc phosphorylation as well as its association with Grb2, indicating that the effects of gastrin are also mediated by Ca2+-dependent mechanisms. Furthermore, we show that blockage of the two major early signals generated by activation of PLC, which induced the activation of the Shc/Grb2 complex, also blocked gastrin-induced MAPK activation.

Platelet-derived growth factor activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase depends on the sequential activation of phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase C, protein kinase C-zeta and Raf-1

The mechanism of Raf-1 activation by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is poorly defined. We previously reported that, in Rat-1 fibroblasts, PDGF activates a phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase C (PC-PLC) and that the product, diacylglycerol, somehow activates protein kinase C-zeta (PKC-zeta). Both PC-PLC and PKC-zeta activities were required for PDGF activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). Now we report that MAPK activation by exogenous PC-PLC depends on Raf-1 activation. PKC-zeta co-immunoprecipitates with, phoshorylates and activates Raf-1, suggesting that in the PDGF- and PC-PLC-activated MAPK pathway, PKC-zeta operates in a signalling complex as a direct activator of Raf-1.

Interrelationships between astrocyte function, oxidative stress and antioxidant status within the central nervous system

Astrocytes have, until recently, been thought of as the passive supporting elements of the central nervous system. However, recent developments suggest that these cells actually play a crucial and vital role in the overall physiology of the brain. Astrocytes selectively express a host of cell membrane and nuclear receptors that are responsive to various neuroactive compounds. In addition, the cell membrane has a number of important transporters for these compounds. Direct evidence for the selective co-expression of neurotransmitters, transporters on both neurons and astrocytes, provides additional evidence for metabolic compartmentation within the central nervous system. Oxidative stress as defined by the excessive production of free radicals can alter dramatically the function of the cell. The free radical nitric oxide has attracted a considerable amount of attention recently, due to its role as a physiological second messenger but also because of its neurotoxic potential when produced in excess. We provide, therefore, an in-depth discussion on how this free radical and its metabolites affect the intra and intercellular physiology of the astrocyte(s) and surrounding neurons. Finally, we look at the ways in which astrocytes can counteract the production of free radicals in general by using their antioxidant pathways. The glutathione antioxidant system will be the focus of attention, since astrocytes have an enormous capacity for, and efficiency built into this particular system.

Stimulation of phosphatidylcholine turnover by beta-phorbol ester and diacylglycerol in the primordial human placenta: the suggested role of phospholipase D activation

The effects of 4beta-phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) and 1,2-(sn)-dioctanoylglycerol (DOCG) on the phosphatidylcholine (PC) turnover (defined as degradation to diacylglycerol followed by PC resynthesis) and on the activity of PC-specific phospholipase D were investigated in placental mince incubated with various radiolabelled precursors in vitro. Experiments with [32P]phosphate indicated that 1 microM PMA and 125-250 microM DOCG were the lowest concentrations that led to maximal and selective stimulation of PC labelling. Moreover, PMA and DOCG acted along different time courses: PMA enhanced labelling after 60 min incubation, with a lag period of at least 30 min, whereas DOCG stimulated PC labelling after only 30 min with no further increase in the next 30 min. The following findings suggest that increased labelling of PC with [32P]phosphate in PMA-treated tissue reflects an increased rate of PC turnover: (1) the effects of PMA and DOCG were additive and PMA did not have any effect on the labelling of PC(DOCG) indicating that it stimulated PC labelling even if it did not activate CTP:choline cytidylyl transferase, the regulatory enzyme of PC synthesis de novo; (2) PMA did not increase the labelling of PC from [3H]glycerol or [3H]glucose ruling out a PMA-promoted availability of glycolytic and/or lipolytic intermediates for PC formation; and (3) the PMA effect was attended by an increased labelling of phosphatidic acid whereas there was no change in the labelling of lyso-PC, indicating the activation of phospholipase D. Experiments in which the transphosphatidylation reaction between [3H]myristic acid-labelled PC and ethanol was used to estimate phospholipase D activity showed 2.4-fold and 1.4-1.8-fold activations by PMA and DOCG, respectively, with no additivity noted. These results suggest that PMA stimulates PC turnover in the early human placenta via the activation of phospholipase D. Rapid metabolic conversion decreases the capacity of DOCG to accelerate PC-turnover and to activate phospholipase D. The early DOCG-induced stimulation of PC labelling with [32P]phosphate is attributed mainly to its known activating effect on CTP: choline cytidylyl transferase.

Cloning and characterization of the mouse homolog of the human A6 gene

The mouse homolog of a novel human protein tyrosine kinase encoding gene, A6, was cloned and characterized. The human A6 cDNA is unique in that its gene product exhibited in vitro kinase activity but its predicted amino acid (aa) sequence revealed no consensus motifs commonly found within the kinase domain of protein kinase family members. Here, we isolated a mouse A6 cDNA clone from a murine myeloid progenitor 32D cell library using a 1.1 kb cDNA probe containing the entire human A6 open reading frame (ORF). Determination of the mouse A6 cDNA nucleotide (nt) sequence revealed an ORF of 1050 nt encoding a protein of 350 aa and a molecular mass of 40,201 Da. The mouse and human A6 gene products shared 93% identity. In vitro translation, as well as immunoprecipitation of 32D cell lysates confirmed expression of mouse A6 as a 40 kDa protein. Northern blot analysis of total RNA from mouse cell lines derived from diverse tissues including NIH 3T3 fibroblasts, L cell fibroblasts, C2C12 myoblasts, M1 myeloblasts, BALB/MK cells, 70Z/3 preB lymphocytes, and p388D1 monocytes demonstrated widespread A6 mRNA expression. A6 mRNA was also ubiquitously expressed at varying levels in all tissues examined. The identification of a potential actin/phosphoinositide binding domain and consensus phosphorylation sites, coupled with A6's expression in a variety of cell types suggest that the A6 gene product may play a role in basic cellular processes.

The regulation of p42/p44 mitogen-activated protein kinases in the injured rat carotid artery

Arterial smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation is an important factor in the development of atherosclerotic plaques and restenotic lesions following arterial reconstruction. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and thrombin are known to induce SMC proliferation and migration in vitro and in vivo. In cultured cells the proliferative responses to these mitogens depend on the activation of the p42/p44 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), whereas the role of these kinases in vivo has yet to be established. We tested whether MAPK activity is induced following vessel injury and whether activity is dependent on the release of bFGF, PDGF, and thrombin. Following balloon injury of the left carotid of male Sprague-Dawley rats, arteries were removed and analyzed with respect to MAPK activity, BrdU-labeled nuclei, and/or luminal, medial, and intimal areas. MAPK activity is induced in the rat carotid artery following balloon-catheter injury with a maximum activation at 30 min with a return to just above baseline at 11 hr after injury. Intravenous administration of heparin or neutralizing antibodies to bFGF or PDGF prior to injury reduced SMC proliferation and neointimal lesional formation but did not affect the early induction of MAPK activity. Administration of a tissue factor inhibitor or thrombin inhibitor also did not affect MAPK activity, although it impaired the initiation of the coagulation cascade.

IN CONCLUSION

(1) MAPK is activated in a time-dependent manner in response to injury; (2) the antiproliferative effect of heparin in vivo is not mediated through the inhibition of MAPK activity induced 30 min after injury; (3) the activation of MAPK after 30 min is not dependent on PDGF, bFGF, or thrombin following vessel injury in the rat.

p70s6k is activated by CCK in rat pancreatic acini

The expression and activity of p70s6k-p85s6k in isolated rat pancreatic acini were revealed by Western blotting, immunoprecipitation, and kinase assay. Cholecystokinin (CCK) stimulation of p70s6k activity was biphasic, with an early phase maximum at 5 min and a late phase maximum at 60 min. The threshold concentration of CCK to increase p70s6k activity was 3 pM, and the maximal effect was seen at 1 nM CCK. Carbachol and bombesin, but not vasoactive intestinal peptide, also activated p70s6k. The protein kinase C (PKC) activator (12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate), the calcium ionophore (ionomycin), and a derivative of adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate induced only a slight increase in p70s6k activity. Rapamycin potently blocked both the basal and the CCK-stimulated p70s6k activity, and this inhibition was reversed by an excess of FK-506. The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor, wortmannin, potently inhibited p70s6k activation by CCK, whereas the tyrosine kinase inhibitor genistein had only a partial effect. Neither rapamycin nor wortmannin inhibited amylase release at concentrations that inhibited p70s6k activity. Thus the activation pathway of p70s6k by CCK is not mediated by PKC or mobilization of intracellular calcium but seems to be mediated by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. The effect of rapamycin to inhibit p70s6k activity is mediated by binding to the immunophyllin FK-506-binding protein of 12 kDa. The p70s6k is not involved in the secretion of digestive enzymes induced by CCK.

Mitogenic signalling by delta opioid receptors expressed in rat-1 fibroblasts involves activation of the p70s6k/p85s6k S6 kinase

The regulation of mitogenic signalling pathways by G-protein-coupled receptors has been studied in Rat-1 fibroblasts stably transfected with the murine delta opioid receptor. We showed recently that stimulation of this receptor led to the activation of the p42 and p44 isoforms of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase [Burt, Carr, Mullaney, Anderson and Milligan (1996) Biochem. J. 320, 227-235]. The present study has examined the role of the ribosomal S6 kinase p70(s6k) in mitogenic signalling by the delta opioid receptor. Treatment of Rat-1 fibroblasts expressing this receptor with the synthetic enkephalin [d-Ala,d-Leu]-enkephalin (DADLE) led to a dose-dependent increase in p70(s6k) enzyme activity. Activation of p70(s6k) was dependent on the level of delta opioid receptor expressed and was sustained above basal levels for several hours. Immunoblotting revealed that p70(s6k) was subject to increased phosphorylation, the extent of which coincided temporally with enzyme activation. Activation of p70(s6k) by DADLE, but not by platelet-derived growth factor, was blocked by pretreatment of cells with pertussis toxin. Activation of p70(s6k) was also partly blocked by wortmannin, indicating that phosphoinositide 3-OH kinase is required for full activation of p70(s6k) by opioid receptor agonists. Activation of the delta opioid receptor in transfected cells led to increased DNA synthesis. This increase was prevented by rapamycin, which also completely blocked activation of p70(s6k) by DADLE. In addition, prevention of the activation of p42 and p44 MAP kinases also blocked the induction of DNA synthesis by DADLE. These results suggest that the activation of both MAP kinases and p70(s6k) might be crucial to the induction of mitogenic responses by Gi-linked receptors such as the delta opioid receptor.

Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate stimulates phosphorylation of the adaptor protein Shc by c-Src

The adaptor protein Shc was prepared as glutathione S-transferase fusion proteins (GST-Shc) and used as in vitro substrate for c-Src. Since phosphotyrosine-binding domain of Shc has been shown to bind phosphatidyl-inositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns(4,5)P2) [Zhou et al. (1995) Nature 378, 584-592], effect of PtdIns(4,5)P2 on the phosphorylation of GST-Shc by c-Src was examined. PtdIns(4,5)P2 stimulated the phosphorylation of GST-Shc without any effect on the c-Src activity as judged by both its autophosphorylation and phosphorylation of exogenous substrate, Cdc2 peptide. On the other hand, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidic acid, phosphatidylinositol, and phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate but not phosphatidylcholine stimulated the c-Src activity itself. Km for GST-Shc in the presence of 1 microM PtdIns(4,5)P2 was calculated to be 90 nM. The PtdIns(4,5)P2-dependent phosphorylation of GST-Shc was inhibited by a GST-fusion protein containing the phosphotyrosine-binding domain of Shc. These results suggest that PtdIns(4,5)P2 can act as a regulator of phosphorylation of Shc by c-Src through its binding to Shc.

Angiotensin II stimulates mitogen-activated protein kinases and protein synthesis by a Ras-independent pathway in vascular smooth muscle cells

Angiotensin II (ANG II), a potent hypertrophic factor of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC), induces activation of the ras protooncogene product (Ras) and mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases and subsequent stimulation of protein synthesis in VSMC. In the present study, we examined whether Ras activation is required for ANG II-induced MAP kinase activation and stimulation of protein synthesis in cultured rat VSMC. Pretreatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors, genistein and herbimycin A, or a putative phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor, wortmannin, completely blocked ANG II-induced Ras activation, whereas neither of them had an effect on ANG II-induced MAP kinase activation. Adenovirus-mediated expression of a dominant negative mutant of Ha-Ras completely inhibited ANG II-induced Ras activation but failed to inhibit MAP kinase activation and stimulation of protein synthesis by this vasoconstrictor. These results indicate that ANG II stimulates MAP kinases and protein synthesis by a Ras-independent pathway in VSMC.

G protein-coupled receptors control vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation via pp60c-src and p21ras

The binding of vasoactive peptides to their respective G protein-coupled receptors has been implicated in the pathogenesis of vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, leading to the development of hypertension, arteriosclerosis, and restenosis after vascular injury. We previously showed that the cytosolic tyrosine kinase pp60c-src is crucial for angiotensin II (ANG II)-induced activation of the protooncogene p21ras. Therefore, we investigated the role of pp60c-src and p21ras in rat aortic smooth muscle cell proliferation induced by several G protein-coupled receptors. ANG II, endothelin-1, or thrombin increased cell proliferation and DNA synthesis. Electroporation of anti-pp60c-src antibodies into cells abolished proliferation in response to these G protein-coupled receptor ligands but not in response to platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB). In contrast, electroporation of anti-p21ras antibody completely blocked DNA synthesis and cell proliferation in response to ANG II, endothelin-1, thrombin, and PDGF-BB. Our data indicate that the pp60c-src tyrosine kinase is necessary and specific for vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and DNA synthesis in response to G protein-coupled receptors but not classic growth factor receptors.

Activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase in freshly isolated rat hepatocytes by both a calcium- and a protein kinase C-dependent pathway

In the present study, we investigated the role of calcium and protein kinase C (PKC) in the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in isolated rat hepatocytes. We found that the glycogenolytic hormone norepinephrine (NE), acting through the alpha1-adrenergic receptor and the G protein Gq, was able to induce a dose- and time-dependent activation of MAPK in hepatocytes. Vasopressin, which acts through a different receptor but also through stimulation of the Gq-dependent pathway, also caused a twofold activation of MAPK. Activation of MAPK by both agonists required the presence of free extracellular calcium and was blocked by the specific PKC inhibitor, Ro 31-8220. MAPK activation was also induced by phorbol myristate acetate (PMA), confirming that a PKC-dependent pathway exists for MAPK activation in liver. Furthermore, calcium-mobilizing agents such as thapsigargin and ionomycin were able to induce an activation of MAPK by a PKC-independent pathway that was totally abolished by preincubation of cells with EGTA. A second pathway for MAPK activation that relies solely on calcium may therefore exist. Ro 31-8220 did not affect phosphorylase activation by NE, vasopressin, thapsigargin, and ionomycin, indicating that PKC inhibition did not interfere with the signaling pathway leading to inositol-1,4,5-triphosphate (IP3)-induced calcium mobilization or with changes in calcium fluxes. The role of MAPK activation by NE and vasopressin in the regulation of hepatic carbohydrate metabolism is discussed.

Solid-phase synthesis of tyrosyl H-phosphonopeptides and methylphosphonopeptides

Phosphopeptides are a useful tool for the investigation of phosphorylation as a reversible posttranslational modification. There is a growing interest in using mimics of phosphoamino acids involved in phosphorylation in order to study the enzymes concerned in these processes. These mimics should contain a non-hydrolysable or isoelectrically modified phosphate moiety to be used as a specific inhibitor of phosphatases and kinases. We introduce sold-phase synthesis of H- and methylphosphonopeptides as a new class of mimics of phosphotyrosyl peptides. The peptides were synthesized on solid phase using the standard fluorenyl-methyloxycarbonyl (Fmoc) strategy. Tyrosine residues were incorporated as allyl-protected derivatives, which were selectively deprotected on the resin by treatment with Pd(PPh3)4. The peptide resin carrying the side-chain unprotected tyrosine of the model peptide Gly-Gly-Tyr-Ala was phosphonylated with di-tert-butyl-N,N-diethyl-phosphoramidite in the presence of 1H-tetrazole, yielding H-phosphonopeptides after trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) cleavage. Alternatively, phosphonylation of the unprotected tyrosine with O-tert-butyl-N,N-diethyl-P-methylphosphonamidite catalysed by 1H-tetrazole and followed by oxidation led to the methyphosphonopeptides after TFA cleavage. We obtained both the H-phosphonopeptides and the methylphosphonopeptides of the tetrapeptide in high yields and purities above 90%, according to reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). To investigate the general applicability of our new methodology, we synthesized phosphonopeptides up to 13 amino acids long, corresponding to recognition sequences of tyrosine kinases. After cleavage and deprotection, all phosphonopeptides were obtained in high yields and purities of about 90%, as shown by mass spectrometry. The only by-product found was the unmodified peptide.

Cyclic AMP inhibitors inhibits PDGF-stimulated mitogen-activated protein kinase activity in rat aortic smooth muscle cells via inactivation of c-Raf-1 kinase and induction of MAP kinase phosphatase-1

In rat aortic smooth muscle cells (RASMC), pretreatment with forskolin inhibited the activation of p42/44 isoforms of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAP) kinase stimulated in response to low concentrations of PDGF (10 ng/ml). This correlated with a strong inhibition of PDGF-stimulated MEK and C-Raf-1 kinase activity. However, the effect of forskolin could be surmounted by increasing the concentration of PDGF. Under such conditions forskolin was only effective against prolonged MAP kinase activation. The ability of forskolin to inhibit the late phase of MAP kinase activity was reversed by pretreatment of the cells with cycloheximide, suggesting the involvement of a protein synthesis step. This was not due to effects upstream of MAP kinase since PDGF-stimulated MEK activation was decreased by cycloheximide, an effect potentiated by forskolin. Forskolin stimulated the induction of the dual specific phosphatase MAP kinase phosphatase-1 (MKP-1), although this effect was small relative to levels induced by PDGF and angiotensin II. However, PDGF stimulated induction of MKP-1 was abolished by the protein kinase A inhibitor H89 and this correlated with the reversal of forskolin-mediated inhibition of PDGF-stimulated MAP kinase activity. These studies implicate a role for intracellular cyclic AMP in at least two aspects of MAP kinase signaling, including both the inhibition of Raf-1 activation and the induction of MKP-1.

Adenosine exerts a glycogen-sparing action in contracting rat skeletal muscle

The role of adenosine in regulating glycogen breakdown during electrically induced muscle contractions was investigated in isolated rat hindquarters perfused with a standard medium either lacking or containing 100 microU/ml insulin and/or 1.67 nM isoprenaline. Nonselective A1/A2-adenosine receptor antagonism via caffeine enhanced (P < 0.05) glycogen breakdown in contracting fast-oxidative (FO) fibers by 40%, provided they were exposed to both insulin and isoprenaline. Combined A1/A2-receptor antagonism by 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (CPDPX) plus 3,7-dimethyl-1-proparglyxanthine (DMPX) fully reproduced (P < 0.05) this stimulatory effect. Furthermore, CPDPX plus DMPX also enhanced (P < 0.05) glycogenolysis during contractions in soleus but not in white gastrocnemius muscle. In contrast, CPDPX or DMPX alone did not affect glycogenolysis in either fiber type. Muscle adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate concentration during contractions was increased (P < 0.05) by CPDPX plus DMPX in both fiber types, whereas glycogen synthase fractional activity was depressed (P < 0.05). Phosphorylase activity was not changed by CPDPX plus DMPX. It is concluded that adenosine exerts a glycogen-sparing action in oxidative skeletal muscle exposed to both insulin and beta-adrenergic stimulation during contraction, presumably via stimulation of glycogen synthase activity.

Involvement of phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase C in platelet-derived growth factor-induced activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway in Rat-1 fibroblasts

The role of phosphatidylcholine (PC) hydrolysis in activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) was studied in Rat-1 fibroblasts. PDGF induced the transient formation of phosphatidic acid, choline, diacylglycerol (DG), and phosphocholine, the respective products of phospholipase D (PLD) and phospholipase C (PC-PLC) activity, with peak levels at 5-10 min. PLD-catalyzed transphosphatidylation (with n-butyl alcohol) diminished DG formation at 5 min but not at later stages of PDGF stimulation. Phorbol ester-induced down-regulation of protein kinase C (PKC) completely blocked PLD activation but not the formation of DG and phosphocholine at 10 min of PDGF stimulation. Collectively, these data indicate that PDGF activates both PLD and PC-PLC. In contrast, epidermal growth factor did not activate PC-PLC in these cells, and it activated PLD only weakly. DG formation by itself, through Bacillus cereus PC-PLC treatment of cells, was sufficient to mimic PDGF in activation of MAPK independent of phorbol ester-sensitive PKC. Since PKC down-regulation blocked PDGF-induced PLD but not MAPK activation, we conclude that PLD is not involved in MAPK signaling. In contrast, MAPK activation by exogenous (bacterial) PLD was not affected by PKC down-regulation, indicating that signals evoked by exogenous PLD differ from endogenous PLD. D609 (2-10 microg/ml), an inhibitor of PC-PLC, blocked PDGF- but not epidermal growth factor-induced MAPK activation. However, D609 should be used with caution since it also affects PLD activity. The results suggest that PC-PLC rather than PLD plays a critical role in the PDGF-activated MAPK pathway.

Protein kinase C inhibits epidermal growth factor receptor phosphorylation in enterocytes

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is an important proliferative signal in the gastrointestinal tract. The EGF receptor (EGFr), which transduces the mitogenic stimulus to the cell, may be regulated by a number of factors including extracellular matrix, cell-cell contact, and other peptides. As protein kinase C (PK-C) has been shown to phosphorylate and down-regulate the EGFr in certain tumor cell lines, we propose that PK-C, an important regulatory enzyme, modulates the phosphorylation of the EGFr in the IEC 6 rat enterocyte cell line. IEC 6 cells were cultured in dishes with Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium, (DMEM)/5% fetal bovine serum (FBS), which was changed to DMEM/1% FBS 24 hr prior to all experiments. Cells (three dishes per group) were treated with the PK-C activating phorbol ester phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) (100 nM) or vehicle for 1 hr and challenged with EGF (50 ng/ml) or vehicle for 15 min. Cell lysates were then prepared. EGFr tyrosine phosphorylation was determined by immunoprecipitating the EGFr and immunoblotting with an antibody against phosphotyrosine. EGFr apparent molecular weight was assessed in the same lysates by Western blot with an anti-EGFr antibody. Blots were analyzed by computer densitometry. Data are expressed as mean +/- SEM; n = 3 with P value determined by t test. Exposure of cells to PMA resulted in a decrease in the EGF-stimulated EGFr phosphotyrosine content from 96 +/- 5 U in control to 66 +/- 6 U in PMA (P < 0.01). The amount of receptor did not change, 43 +/- 3 U in control vs 44 +/- 3 U in PMA (P = 0.44). Further, exposure to PMA in the absence of EGF caused a gel shift of the EGFr band consistent with a nontyrosine phosphorylation of the protein. We demonstrate that activation of PK-C results in a modification of the EGFr coincident with inhibition of EGF-stimulated receptor tyrosine kinase activity. These data support a role for PK-C in the regulation of EGFr function and hence modulation of mitogenic signals in enterocytes.

Signal transduction through epidermal growth factor receptor is altered in HeLa monolayer cells during mitosis

Epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced signalling was studied separately in the mitosis and G2-phases of HeLa monolayer cells presynchronized (1) by amethopterin inhibition and thymidine release or (2) by nocodazole. For comparison, cells were treated with the phorbol ester phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA). In contrast with the observed responses effected by PMA, which seem to be independent of cell cycle and synchronization conditions, those induced by EGF are greatly influenced by both criteria. Synchronization with nocodazole abolished the EGF-induced stimulation of phosphoinositide hydrolysis in G2 as well as in mitotic cells although tyrosine phosphorylation of the EGF receptor and phospholipase Cgamma1 could be shown to occur, especially in G2 cells. Synchronization with amethopterin/thymidine showed that, in contrast with G2 cells, mitotic cells were not able to react to EGF with an increase in phosphoinositide hydrolysis although a certain degree of EGF receptor dimerization and autophosphorylation as well as tyrosine phosphorylation of phospholipase Cgamma1 could still be shown to occur in mitosis. The results seem to indicate that the EGF pathway leading to a stimulation of phosphoinositide hydrolysis is attenuated at different levels and requires a cytoskeletal condition that is not present either after treatment (24 h) with nocodazole or during normal mitosis of a monolayer cell.

Extracellular matrix is required for MAP kinase activation and proliferation of rat glomerular epithelial cells

This study examined the role of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the regulation of glomerular epithelial cell (GEC) proliferation. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) stimulated proliferation of GEC when the cells were adherent to collagen matrices, but not plastic substratum. Significant and prolonged EGF receptor (R) tyrosine autophosphorylation (which reflects EGF-R kinase activation) was induced by EGF only in GEC adherent to collagen. In addition, EGF stimulated the activity and tyrosine phosphorylation of p42 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase (ERK2) in collagen-adherent GEC, but not in cells on plastic. An inhibitor of the p-42 MAP kinase pathway, PD98059, blocked EGF-induced MAP kinase activity and proliferation. Thus, adhesion to ECM enables EGF to induce proliferation of GEC, by facilitating activation of EGF-R and the p42 MAP kinase pathway. Signals from ECM to growth factor receptor tyrosine kinases may regulate cell turnover in the glomerulus under normal conditions and during immune glomerular injury.

Estradiol activates p60src, p53/56lyn and renatured p50/55 protein tyrosine kinases in the dog prostate

Protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) are key enzymes implicated in signal transduction pathways regulated by growth factors (GFs). We have previously shown by immunohistochemistry that the level of phosphotyrosine (pY) proteins is increased in prostatic basal epithelial cells following estrogen treatment in castrated dogs. In this study, we investigated if this treatment increases the level and distribution of prostatic PTK activity, and more specifically, if it alters the expression and/or activity of the Src family members p60src and p53/56lyn. Prostates from normal and hyperplastic dog prostates, as well as those from castrated dogs treated with androgens, were also examined. Only the glands obtained from estrogen-treated dogs had a significantly increased total and specific PTK activity, observed uniquely in the particulate extract, as compared to the other types of prostates studied. In addition, this increased activity was correlated upon gel filtration chromatography with the presence of an additional peak of activity with an apparent molecular weight of 130 kDa, which was absent in other prostate fractions presenting only 50 kDa peaks. Using antibodies, we demonstrate that active p60src and pp53/56lyn kinases accounted for 81% of the activity in this 130 kDa peak. On the other hand, in situ renaturation also revealed the presence of still uncharacterized 50/55 kDa PTKs in the 130 kDa peak. Altogether, these findings raise the possibility that these PTKs contribute to the transmission of mitogenic signals originating directly or indirectly from estrogen stimulation of the basal cell layer of the prostate.

Evidence that thrombin-stimulated DNA synthesis in pulmonary arterial fibroblasts involves phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-dependent p70 ribosomal S6 kinase activation

We have examined the regulation of the 70 kDa ribosomal S6 kinase (p70s6k) by the G-protein-coupled receptor agonist alpha-thrombin and the role of this signalling molecule in the mitogenic effect of thrombin in cultured bovine pulmonary arterial (PA) fibroblasts. Thrombin stimulated p70s6k activity in a time and concentration-dependent manner which was abolished by the macrolide rapamycin. The phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase inhibitor wortmannin also completely blocked p70s6k activity in response to thrombin but did not affect p70s6k activity evoked by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) at a concentration that abrogated PDGF-stimulated PI 3-kinase activity. Activation of p70s6k by thrombin, but not PDGF, was also inhibited (by 48.3 +/- 5.4%) by pre-incubation of cells with pertussis toxin (PTX). Downregulation of protein kinase C (PKC) alpha and epsilon isoforms by pretreatment of fibroblasts for 48 h with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), markedly attenuated both thrombin and PDGF-stimulated p70s6k activation (by 74.8 +/- 4.4% and 82.3 +/- 7.9% respectively). Thrombin also strongly stimulated (over 100 fold) the incorporation of [3H]thymidine into growth arrested PA fibroblasts which was inhibited by rapamycin (by 33.6 +/- 2.0%). From these results we propose that in PA fibroblasts: 1) thrombin stimulates the activation of p70s6k in a manner consistent with an involvement of a heterotrimeric G protein of the G(i) family, a PI 3-kinase other than the PI 3-kinase involved in signalling by PDGF, and PKC. 2) a p70s6k-dependent pathway plays a role in mitogenic signalling by thrombin.

The role of endothelins in the paracrine control of the secretion and growth of the adrenal cortex

Endothelins (ETs) are a family of vasoactive peptides (ET-1, ET-2, and ET-3) mainly secreted by vascular endothelium and widely distributed in the various body systems, where they play major autocrine/paracrine regulatory functions, acting via two subtypes of receptors (ETA and ETB): Adrenal cortex synthesizes and releases ETS and expresses both ETA and ETB. Zona glomerulosa possesses both ETA and ETB, whereas zona fasciculata/reticularis is almost exclusively provided with ETB. ETS exert a strong mineralocorticoid and a less intense glucocorticoid secretagogue action, mainly via ETB receptors. ETS also appear to enhance the growth and steroidogenic capacity of zona glomerulosa and to stimulate its proliferative activity. This trophic action of ETS is likely to be mediated mainly by ETA receptors. The intraadrenal release of ETS undergoes a multiple regulation, with the rise in blood flow rate and the local release of nitric oxide being the main stimulatory factors. Data are also available that indicate that ETS may also have a role in the pathophysiology of primary aldosteronism caused by adrenal adenomas and carcinomas.

Growth inhibitory properties of endothelin-1 in activated human hepatic stellate cells: a cyclic adenosine monophosphate-mediated pathway. Inhibition of both extracellular signal-regulated kinase and c-Jun kinase and upregulation of endothelin B receptors

During chronic liver diseases, hepatic stellate cells (HSC) acquire an activated myofibroblast-like phenotype, proliferate, and synthetize fibrosis components. We have shown that endothelin-1 (ET-1) inhibits the proliferation of activated human HSC via endothelin B (ETB) receptors. We now investigate the transduction pathway involved in the growth inhibitory effect of ET-1 in activated HSC. Endothelin-1 and the ETB receptor agonist, sarafotoxin-S6C, increased synthesis of PGI2 and PGE2, leading to elevation of cAMP. The cyclooxygenase inhibitor ibuprofen and the adenylyl cyclase inhibitor SQ22536 both blunted the growth inhibitory effect of ET-1. Analysis of early steps associated with growth inhibition indicated that: (a) similar to ET-1, forskolin decreased c-jun mRNA induction without affecting c-fos and krox 24 mRNA expression; (b) ET-1, sarafotoxin-S6C, as well as forskolin, reduced activation of both c-Jun kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase. Finally, forskolin, PGI2, and PGE2 raised by fivefold the number of ET binding sites after 6 h, and increased the proportion of ETB receptors from 50% in control cells to 80% in treated cells. In conclusion, ET-1 inhibits proliferation of activated HSC via ETB receptors, through a prostaglandin/cAMP pathway that leads to inhibition of both extracellular signal-regulated kinase and c-Jun kinase activities. Upregulation of ETB receptors by prostaglandin/cAMP raises the possibility of a positive feedback loop that would amplify the growth inhibitory response. These results suggest that ET-1 and agents that increase cAMP might be of interest to limit proliferation of activated HSC during chronic liver diseases.

Trypsin stimulates proteinase-activated receptor-2-dependent and -independent activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases

We have examined protease-mediated activation of the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase cascade in rat aortic smooth-muscle cells and bovine pulmonary arterial fibroblasts. Exposure of smooth-muscle cells to trypsin evoked rapid and transient activation of c-Raf-1, MAP kinase kinase 1 and 2 and MAP kinase that was sensitive to inhibition by soybean trypsin inhibitor. The actions of trypsin were closely mimicked by the proteinase-activated receptor 2 (PAR-2)-activating peptide sequence SLIGRL but not LSIGRL. Peak MAP kinase activation in response to both trypsin and SLIGRL was also dependent on concentration, with EC50 values of 12.1 +/- 3.4 nM and 62.5 +/- 4.5 microM respectively. Under conditions where MAP kinase activation by SLIGRL was completely desensitized by prior exposure of smooth-muscle cells to the peptide, trypsin-stimulated MAP kinase activity was markedly attenuated (78.9 +/- 15.1% desensitization), whereas the response to thrombin was only marginally affected (16.6 +/- 12.1% desensitization). Trypsin and SLIGRL also weakly stimulated the activation of the MAP kinase homologue p38 in smooth-muscle cells without any detectable activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase. Strong activation of the MAP kinase cascade and modest activation of p38 by trypsin were also observed in fibroblasts, although in this cell type these effects were not mimicked by SLIGRL nor by the thrombin receptor-activating peptide SFLLRNPNDKYEPF. Reverse transcriptase-PCR analysis confirmed the presence of PAR-2 mRNA in smooth-muscle cells but not fibroblasts. Our results suggest that in vascular smooth-muscle cells, trypsin stimulates the activation of the MAP kinase cascade relatively selectively, in a manner consistent with an interaction with the recently described PAR-2. Activation of MAP kinase by trypsin in vascular fibroblasts, however, seems to be independent of PAR-2 and occurs by an undefined mechanism possibly involving novel receptor species.

Formation of nascent secretory vesicles from the trans-Golgi network of endocrine cells is inhibited by tyrosine kinase and phosphatase inhibitors

Recent evidence suggests that secretory vesicle formation from the TGN is regulated by cytosolic signaling pathways involving small GTP-binding proteins, heterotrimeric G proteins, inositol phospholipid metabolism, and protein serine/threonine phosphorylation. At the cell surface, protein phosphorylation and dephosphorylation on tyrosine residues can rapidly modulate cytosolic signaling pathways in response to extracellular stimuli and have been implicated in the internalization and sorting of signaling receptors. to determine if phosphotyrosine metabolism might also regulate secretory vesicle budding from the TGN, we treated permeabilized rat pituitary GH3 cells with inhibitors of either tyrosine phosphatases or tyrosine kinases. We demonstrate that the tyrosine phosphatase inhibitors pervanadate and zinc potently inhibited budding of nascent secretory vesicles. Tyrphostin A25 (TA25) and other tyrosine kinase inhibitors also prevented secretory vesicle release, suggesting that vesicle formation requires both phosphatase and kinase activities. A stimulatory peptide derived from the NH2 terminus of the small GTP-binding protein ADP ribosylation factor 1 (ARF1) antagonized the inhibitory effect of TA25, indicating that both agents influence the same pathway leading to secretory vesicle formation. Antiphosphotyrosine immunoblotting revealed that protein tyrosine phosphorylation was enhanced after treatment with tyrosine phosphatase or kinase inhibitors. Subcellular fractionation identified several tyrosine phosphorylated polypeptides of approximately 175, approximately 130, and 90-110 kD that were enriched in TGN-containing Golgi fractions and tightly membrane associated. The phosphorylation of these polypeptides correlated with inhibition of vesicle budding. Our results suggest that in endocrine cells, protein tyrosine phosphrylation and dephosphorylation are required for secretory vesicle release from the TGN.

Tyrosine phosphorylation of myelin protein PO

Po (M(r) 30 kDa), the major protein component of peripheral nervous system (PNS) myelin, is known to be phosphorylated by protein kinase C on serine residues at multiple sites. This study was conducted to assess whether other amino acids might be phosphorylated in the protein. Segments of rat sciatic nerve were incubated with 32P in either the presence or absence of phorbol ester. Labeled Po was isolated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and subjected to partial acid hydrolysis. Upon separation of the hydrolysis products by either thin-layer electrophoresis or thin-layer chromatography, a radioactive spot was detected which comigrated with authentic phosphotyrosine. In other experiments, nerves were incubated with the tyrosine phosphatase inhibitors vanadate or vanadyl hydroperoxide (pervanadate). When the nerve homogenate proteins were separated on gels and probed with a monoclonal antibody to phosphotyrosine on Western blots, a positive immune reaction was obtained for a protein species which migrated with the same mobility as PO on Coomassie Blue-stained gels. In the absence of 2-mercaptoethanol, this immunoreactive band displayed increased mobility on gels which is characteristic of the migration pattern of Po. The same immunostaining results were obtained using a purified peripheral myelin fraction prepared from nerve homogenates. Furthermore, the positions of immunoreactive bands produced by anti-Po and antiphosphotyrosine antibodies coincided on the same immunoblot of myelin proteins and purified Po. These data indicate that one or more tyrosyl residues in Po can be phosphorylated in intact sciatic nerve.

Treatment of vascular smooth muscle cells with antisense phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotides directed against p42 and p44 mitogen-activated protein kinases abolishes DNA synthesis in response to platelet-derived growth factor

We have investigated the requirement for mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase in the stimulation of DNA synthesis by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) in rat aortic smooth muscle cells using a phosphorothioate-modified oligodeoxy-nucleotide (ODN) to deplete MAP kinase. Treatment for 72 h with MAP kinase antisense ODN directed against both the p42 and p44 isoforms of MAP kinase abolished the expression of MAP kinase and reduced agonist-stimulated MAP kinase activity by approx. 95%. The scrambled control ODN was without effect, but the sense control ODN slightly enhanced the expression of both isoforms. Abolition of MAP kinase activity by antisense ODN treatment prevented angiotensin II- and PDGF-stimulated activation of p90 ribosomal S6 kinase activity, but did not affect activation of MAP kinase kinase. In addition, antisense ODN pretreatment reduced PDGF-stimulated [3H]thymidine incorporation to < 5% of control, and decreased basal incorporation by approx. 90%. In contrast, basal [3H]thymidine incorporation was enhanced approx. 60% by control sense ODN treatment. These results indicate an obligatory role for MAP kinase in the activation of a number of early events in mitogenesis, including DNA synthesis, in vascular smooth muscle cells.

Agonist activation of p42 and p44 mitogen-activated protein kinases following expression of the mouse delta opioid receptor in Rat-1 fibroblasts: effects of receptor expression levels and comparisons with G-protein activation

Rat-1 fibroblasts were transfected with a cDNA encoding the mouse delta opioid receptor. Two separate clones, D2 (which expressed some 6 pmol of the receptor/mg of membrane protein) and DOE (which expressed some 0.2 pmol/mg of membrane protein), were examined in detail. With membranes from both clones, the opioid agonist [D-Ala2]leucine enkephalin (DADLE) caused stimulation of high-affinity GTPase activity and of the binding of guanosine 5'-[gamma-[35S]thio]triphosphate, and inhibition of forskolin-amplified adenylate cyclase activity. DADLE also induced phosphorylation and activation of both the p42MAPK (42 kDa isoform) and p44MAPK (44 kDa isoform) members of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAP kinase) family. All of these effects of DADLE were prevented in both clones by pretreatment of the cells with pertussis toxin. The maximal response that could be produced by DADLE in direct assays of G-protein activation were substantially greater in clone D2 than in clone DOE, but in both clones essentially full phosphorylation of both p42MAPK and p44MAPK could be achieved. EC50 values for DADLE stimulation of GTPase activity and for activation of p44MAPK were substantially lower in clone D2 than in clone DOE. Moreover, in both clones the EC50 value for DADLE stimulation of p44MAPK was substantially lower than that for stimulation of GTPase activity, and the Hill coefficients for agonist activation of p44MAPK (h > 1) displayed marked co-operativity whereas those for G-protein activation did not (h 0.8-1.0). DADLE activation of p44MAPK showed more sustained kinetics in clone D2 than in clone DOE. By contrast, lysophosphatidic acid, acting at an endogenously expressed G-protein-coupled receptor, also activated p44MAPK in both clones in a pertussis toxinsensitive manner, but both the kinetics and the concentration-response curve for activation of p44MAPK by this ligand were similar. As with other systems, maintained cellular levels of a cAMP analogue prevented the effects of both G-protein-coupled receptors on activation of p44MAPK. These results demonstrate for the first time that an opioid receptor, at least when expressed in Rat-1 fibroblasts, is able to initiate activation of the MAP kinase cascade in a G1-dependent manner, and show that only a very small proportion of the cellular G1 population is required to be activated to result in full phosphorylation of the p42MAPK and p44MAPK MAP kinases.

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors and cycloheximide inhibit Li+ protection of cerebellar granule neurons switched to non-depolarizing medium

Recently, it has been shown that Li+ robustly enhances the survival of cerebellar granule neurons acutely switched to non-depolarizing medium after maturing in vitro, a condition which elicits massive apoptotic death in this cell type. Tyrosine protein phosphorylation is known to underlie the activity of a number of trophic factors. This prompted us to investigate whether specific tyrosine kinase inhibitors could modulate the Li+ protection of cultured granule neurons switched to non-depolarizing medium. Genistein and herbimycin A dose dependently abolished the Li+ effect. Furthermore, this effect was substantially prevented by the translational inhibitor cycloheximide, suggesting that it requires de novo protein synthesis. Overall, these results suggest that Li+ protection of cerebellar granule neurons switched to non-depolarizing medium involves tyrosine kinases and transcriptional activation.

Coupling of the thrombin receptor to G12 may account for selective effects of thrombin on gene expression and DNA synthesis in 1321N1 astrocytoma cells

In 1321N1 astrocytoma cells, thrombin, but not carbachol, induces AP-1-mediated gene expression and DNA synthesis. To understand the divergent effects of these G protein-coupled receptor agonists on cellular responses, we examined Gq-dependent signaling events induced by thrombin receptor and muscarinic acetylcholine receptor stimulation. Thrombin and carbachol induce comparable changes in phosphoinositide and phosphatidylcholine hydrolysis, mobilization of intracellular Ca2+, diglyceride generation, and redistribution of protein kinase C; thus, activation of these Gq-signaling pathways appears to be insufficient for gene expression and mitogenesis. Thrombin increases Ras and mitogen-activated protein kinase activation to a greater extent than carbachol in 1321N1 cells. The effects of thrombin are not mediated through Gi, since ribosylation of Gi/Go proteins by pertussis toxin does not prevent thrombin-induced gene expression or thrombin-stimulated DNA synthesis. We recently reported that the pertussis toxin-insensitive G12 protein is required for thrombin-induced DNA synthesis. We demonstrate here, using transfection of receptors and G proteins in COS-7 cells, that G alpha 12 selectively couples the thrombin receptor to AP-1-mediated gene expression. This does not appear to result from increased mitogen-activated protein kinase activity but may reflect activation of a tyrosine kinase pathway. We suggest that preferential coupling of the thrombin receptor to G12 accounts for the selective ability of thrombin to stimulate Ras, mitogen-activated protein kinase, gene expression, and mitogenesis in 1321N1 cells.

Selectively enhanced cellular signaling by Gi proteins in essential hypertension. G alpha i2, G alpha i3, G beta 1, and G beta 2 are not mutated

Recent studies have shown an enhanced signaling capacity of receptors coupled to pertussis toxin (PTX)-sensitive guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) in immortalized B lymphoblasts from patients with essential hypertension. In the present study, we analyzed (1) whether such alterations would also be expressed in nontransformed cells of these individuals and (2) whether other G protein-mediated signaling pathways were also altered. Therefore, we established primary cultures of skin fibroblasts from previously characterized normotensive and hypertensive individuals (NT and HT cells, respectively). [Ca2+]i rises induced by lyso-phosphatidic acid (LPA), thrombin, and sphingosine-1-phosphate as well as the formation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and [3H]thymidine incorporation evoked by LPA were PTX sensitive and enhanced twofold in HT fibroblasts. In contrast, cellular responses induced by bradykinin, endothelin-1, and angiotensin II (all PTX insensitive) were similar in NT and HT cells. Formation of cAMP induced by stimulation of Gs with isoproterenol was identical in NT and HT cells. Western blot analysis yielded no evidence for an overexpression of G alpha i2, G alpha i3, G beta 2, and G beta 4. Furthermore, sequencing of cDNAs encoding for the ubiquitously expressed PTX-sensitive G protein subunits G alpha i2, G alpha i3, G beta 1, and G beta 2 from NT and HT cell lines yielded no evidence for mutations in these genes. Although the molecular mechanisms remain to be defined, these data support the concept of a selective enhancement of signal transduction via PTX-sensitive G proteins in essential hypertension.

Cholecystokinin stimulates formation of shc-grb2 complex in rat pancreatic acinar cells through a protein kinase C-dependent mechanism

Cholecystokinin (CCK) has recently been shown to activate the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade (Ras-Raf-MAPK kinase-MAPK) in pancreatic acini. The mechanism by which the Gq protein-coupled CCK receptor activates Ras, however, is currently unknown. Growth factor receptors are known to activate Ras by means of adaptor proteins that bind to phosphotyrosine domains. We therefore compared the effects of CCK and epidermal growth factor (EGF) on Tyr phosphorylation of the adaptor proteins Shc and its association with Grb2 and the guanine nucleotide exchange factor SOS. Three major isoforms of Shc (p46, p52, p66) were detected in isolated rat pancreatic acini with p52 Shc being the predominant form. CCK and EGF increased tyrosyl phosphorylation of Shc (251 and 337% of control, respectively). CCK-stimulated tyrosyl phosphorylation of Shc as well as Shc-Grb2 complex formation was significant at 2.5 min, maximal at 5 min, and persisted for at least 30 min. Finally, SOS was found to be associated with Grb2 as assessed by probing of anti-Grb2 immunoprecipitates with anti-SOS. Since MAPK in pancreatic acini is activated via protein kinase C (PKC), we studied the effect of phorbol esters on Shc phosphorylation and found 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate to be as potent as CCK. Furthermore, GF-109203X, a PKC inhibitor, abolished the effect of 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate and also the effect of CCK but not the effect of EGF on Shc tyrosyl phosphorylation. CCK-induced tyrosyl phosphorylation of Shc was found to be phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-independent, and CCK did not cause EGF receptor activation. These results suggest that formation of an Shc-Grb2-SOS complex via a PKC-dependent mechanism may provide the link between Gq protein-coupled CCK receptor stimulation and Ras activation in these cells.

Gastrin stimulates tyrosine phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate 1 and its association with Grb2 and the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase

The growth-promoting effects of gastrin on normal and neoplastic gastrointestinal tissues have been shown to be mediated by the gastrin/CCKB receptor, which belongs to the family of G protein-coupled receptors. However, the downstream signaling pathways activated by gastrin are not well characterized. In the present study, we demonstrate that gastrin stimulates tyrosine phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1), the major cytoplasmic substrate of the insulin receptor. The gastrin-induced phosphorylation of IRS-1 was rapid and transient, occurring within 30 s of treatment and diminishing thereafter. IRS-1 binds several proteins containing Src homology 2 domains through its multiple tyrosine phosphorylation sites. Following gastrin stimulation, we observed a time- and dose-dependent association of IRS-1 with the p85 regulatory subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase). In addition, activation of PI 3-kinase was detected in anti-IRS-1 immunoprecipitates from gastrin-treated cells, suggesting that tyrosine phosphorylation of IRS-1, which leads to the rapid recruitment of p85, might be one mechanism used by gastrin to activate PI 3-kinase. We have previously reported that tyrosine phosphorylation of Shc and its association with the Grb2-Sos complex may contribute to the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway by gastrin. We report here that Grb2 also interacts with tyrosine-phosphorylated IRS-1 in response to gastrin. Taken together, our results suggest that IRS-1 may serve as a converging target in the signaling pathways stimulated by receptors that belong to different families, such as the gastrin/CCKB G protein-coupled receptor and the insulin receptor.

Signal-transducing protein phosphorylation cascades mediated by Ras/Rho proteins in the mammalian cell: the potential for multiplex signalling

The features of three distinct protein phosphorylation cascades in mammalian cells are becoming clear. These signalling pathways link receptor-mediated events at the cell surface or intracellular perturbations such as DNA damage to changes in cytoskeletal structure, vesicle transport and altered transcription factor activity. The best known pathway, the Ras-->Raf-->MEK-->ERK cascade [where ERK is extracellular-signal-regulated kinase and MEK is mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase/ERK kinase], is typically stimulated strongly by mitogens and growth factors. The other two pathways, stimulated primarily by assorted cytokines, hormones and various forms of stress, predominantly utilize p21 proteins of the Rho family (Rho, Rac and CDC42), although Ras can also participate. Diagnostic of each pathway is the MAP kinase component, which is phosphorylated by a unique dual-specificity kinase on both tyrosine and threonine in one of three motifs (Thr-Glu-Tyr, Thr-Phe-Tyr or Thr-Gly-Tyr), depending upon the pathway. In addition to activating one or more protein phosphorylation cascades, the initiating stimulus may also mobilize a variety of other signalling molecules (e.g. protein kinase C isoforms, phospholipid kinases, G-protein alpha and beta gamma subunits, phospholipases, intracellular Ca2+). These various signals impact to a greater or lesser extent on multiple downstream effectors. Important concepts are that signal transmission often entails the targeted relocation of specific proteins in the cell, and the reversible formation of protein complexes by means of regulated protein phosphorylation. The signalling circuits may be completed by the phosphorylation of upstream effectors by downstream kinases, resulting in a modulation of the signal. Signalling is terminated and the components returned to the ground state largely by dephosphorylation. There is an indeterminant amount of cross-talk among the pathways, and many of the proteins in the pathways belong to families of closely related proteins. The potential for more than one signal to be conveyed down a pathway simultaneously (multiplex signalling) is discussed. The net effect of a given stimulus on the cell is the result of a complex intracellular integration of the intensity and duration of activation of the individual pathways. The specific outcome depends on the particular signalling molecules expressed by the target cells and on the dynamic balance among the pathways.

A regulatory role for cAMP in phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/p70 ribosomal S6 kinase-mediated DNA synthesis in platelet-derived-growth-factor-stimulated bovine airway smooth-muscle cells

In bovine airway smooth-muscle cells platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and endothelin (Et-1) stimulate sustained and comparable activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAP kinase) but display very different mitogenic efficacies, with PDGF inducing 50 times more DNA synthesis than Et-1. To examine additional signalling pathways which may be involved in this response, we investigated the role of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PtdIns 3-kinase)/p70 ribosomal protein S6 kinase (p70s6k) in mediating PDGF- and Et-1-induced mitogenesis, and whether inhibition of this pathway may underly the ability of cAMP to inhibit cell proliferation. PDGF stimulated an increase in PtdIns 3-kinase activity and a sustained 15-fold increase in p70s6k activity that was abolished by both wortmannin and rapamycin. Et-1, however, stimulated only a 2-fold increase in p70s6k activity that was rapamycin-sensitive but wortmannin-insensitive. DNA synthesis stimulated by PDGF (50-fold) and Et-1 (2-fold) followed a similar pattern of inhibition. Pretreatment with phorbol ester did not affect p70s6k activation in response to PDGF. Raising intracellular cAMP levels using forskolin, however, resulted in a marked time-dependent inhibition of p70s6k activity, a decrease in the tyrosine phosphorylation of the PtdIns 3-kinase p85 subunit and reduced PtdIns 3-kinase activity. Forskolin also inhibited PDGF-stimulated DNA synthesis. These results suggest that PtdIns 3-kinase-dependent activation of p70s6k may determine mitogenic efficacy of agonists that generate comparable MAP kinase signals. Negative regulation of PtdIns 3-kinase by cAMP may play an important role in the inhibition of airway smooth-muscle cell proliferation.

Efficacy of agonist-stimulated MEK activation determines the susceptibility of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase to inhibition in rat aortic smooth muscle cells

In rat aortic smooth muscle cells, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) stimulated a sustained activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAP kinase) while the response to angiotensin II (AII) was transient. This was due to a relatively greater initial activation of MAP kinase kinase (MEK) and a correspondingly greater residual MEK activity at later time points. Pretreatment of cells with the novel MEK inhibitor PD 098059 reduced MEK activation at 5 min in response to each agonist by a similar proportion (70%); however, at this time point MAP kinase activation in response to PDGF was only marginally affected while the response to AII was substantially reduced. PD 098059 did, however, reduce PDGF-stimulated MEK activity after 30 min and this correlated with a loss in MAP kinase activity and DNA synthesis. Pretreatment with forskolin also caused a similar pattern of inhibition of agonist-stimulated MEK and MAP kinase activity. Only following protein kinase C down-regulation were both AII- and PDGF-stimulated MAP kinase activation substantially reduced and this correlated with the virtual loss of both MEK and c-Raf-1 activity in response to both agents. The differential inhibition of MAP kinase activation by forskolin was not due to specific activation of A-Raf by PDGF; both PDGF and AII stimulated A-Raf kinase and this activity was strongly inhibited by forskolin. These results suggest that the efficacy of MEK activation determines the duration of MAP kinase activation and the susceptibility of MAP kinase activation to inhibition by different agents. The results also argue against the selective activation of A-Raf by PDGF as a mechanism to explain the differences in the kinetics of MAP kinase activity stimulated by AII and PDGF.

Oligodendrocytes and their precursors require phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase signaling for survival

Signal transduction in response to several growth factors that regulate oligodendrocyte development and survival involves the activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, which we detect in oligodendrocytes and their precursors. To investigate the role of this enzyme activity, we analyzed cell survival in cultures of oligodendrocytes treated with wortmannin or LY294002, two potent inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. Cell survival was inhibited by 60–70% in these cultures within 24 hours, as quantitated by a tetrazolium staining assay for viable cells and by measurement of DNA content. Similar results were obtained with oligodendrocyte precursor cells. Nuclei of the dying cells contained fragmented DNA, as revealed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end-labeling assays, indicating that the cells were dying by apoptosis. Moreover, a significant increase in the number of cells with fragmented nuclear DNA was detected as early as 4 hours, well before any significant differences could be detected in glucose transport or cell viability. Exogenous addition of insulin-like growth factor-I, neurotrophin-3, platelet-derived growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, ciliary neurotrophic factor, N-acetyl cysteine, vitamin C, vitamin E, progesterone or serum did not prevent cell death in the presence of wortmannin or LY294002. These findings indicate that survival of oligodendrocytes and their precursors depends on a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase mediated signaling pathway. Inhibition of this critical enzyme activity induces apoptotic cell death, even in the presence of exogenous growth factors or serum.

Regulation of connexin43 function by activated tyrosine protein kinases

Gap junctions are specialized membrane structures that are involved in the normal functioning of numerous mammalian tissues and implicated in several human disease processes. This mini-review focuses on the regulation of gap junctions through phosphorylation of connexin43 induced by the v-Src or epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinases. These tyrosine kinases markedly disrupt gap junctional communication in mammalian cells. here, we describe work correlating the alteration of connexin43 function with the ability of the v-Src tyrosine kinase to phosphorylate connexin43 directly on two distinct tyrosine sites in mammalian cells (Y247 and Y265). We also present evidence that proline-rich regions and phosphotyrosine sites of connexin43 may mediate interactions with the SH3 and SH2 domains of v-Src. In contrast to v-Src, the activated epidermal growth factor receptor acts indirectly through activated MAP kinase which may stimulate phosphorylation of connexin43 exclusively on serine. This phosphorylation event is complex because MAP kinase phosphorylates three serine sites in connexin43 (S255, S279, and S282). These findings suggest novel interactions between connexin43, the v-Src tyrosine kinase, and activated MAP kinase that set the stage for future investigations into the regulation of gap junctions by protein phosphorylation.

Cell signalling in pulmonary vascular cells: do not shoot the messenger!

Pulmonary hypertension is associated with pulmonary vascular remodelling, rendering the vessels unresponsive to vasodilators. An understanding of the mechanisms which cause this remodelling is required, which is likely to be linked to changes in vascular tone whether stimulated by hypoxia or other factors. One way to approach this is to try to understand the intracellular signalling pathways associated with hypoxia in pulmonary artery cells. This understanding could provide opportunities for therapeutic intervention using agents which will interfere with the signalling systems.

Na+/H+ exchange in hypertension and in diabetes mellitus--facts and hypotheses

An enhancement of Na+/H+ exchange (NHE) in blood cells of selected patients with essential hypertension and with diabetic nephropathy has been described by various investigators. Recent studies have shown that enhanced NHE activity persists in immortalized lymphoblasts from these patients after prolonged cell culture and, thus, appears to be under genetic control. Available evidence strongly argues against a mutation in the encoding gene or an overexpression of the NHE. Immortalized cells from hypertensive patients with enhanced NHE activity display two-fold enhanced agonist-induced rises of the cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration and the underlying reason was identified as an increased activation of pertussis toxin (PTX)-sensitive G proteins. The molecular mechanism(s) of this phenomenon have not yet been elucidated. It appears likely that similar changes contribute to the enhanced NHE activity phenotype in diabetic nephropathy, although experimental evidence for this is still lacking. An enhanced activation of PTX-sensitive G proteins could explain many of the hitherto unexplained phenomena in essential hypertension, e.g. inheritance, increased vasoconstriction, hypertrophy of remodeling of arterial blood vessels and the heart, enhanced platelet aggregation etc. In diabetes the same defect could provide the basis for the susceptibility to nephropathy, e.g. by enhancing the deleterious effects of autocrine and paracrine growth factors. Thus, the experimental approach of immortalizing blood cells from patients with essential hypertension and diabetic nephropathy has opened new horizons in the identification of genetically fixed abnormalities in intracellular signal transduction which could contribute to both pathologies and which can now be studied without the confounding influences of the diabetic or hypertensive in vivo milieu.

Mechanisms of hormone and growth factor action in the bovine corpus luteum

The binding of hormones and growth factors to their cell surface receptors leads to an orderly cascade of events leading to activation of cytoplasmic effector molecules. The mechanism of action of luteinizing hormone involves the stimulation of multiple signal transduction effector systems including adenylyl cyclase and inositol phospholipid-specific phospholipase C (PLC). This results in the formation of second messengers that activate cAMP-dependent, Ca(2+)-dependent and lipid-dependent protein kinases. Prostaglandin F(2alpha) activates PLC which increases intracellular calcium and activates protein kinase C. This results in the activation of a series of protein kinases in the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase cascade, leading to the activation of nuclear transcription factors c-fos and c-jun. Hormone responsive effector systems, therefore, operate by activating families of protein kinases which regulate cell metabolism, secretion, and gene transcription. Growth factors activate specific receptor protein tyrosine kinases which recruit additional signaling molecules (phospholipase Cgamma, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, Shc, Grb2, etc.) initiating a cascade of events mediated via MAP kinases. The signaling pathways activated by hormones interact or cross talk with the signaling pathways activated by growth factors. The diversity of cellular signaling mechanisms elicited by hormones and the potential for interactions with signals generated by growth factor receptor tyrosine kinases, may allow fine tuning of cellular responses during the life span of the corpus luteum.