Amino acid sequence of the human fibronectin receptor

Decreased expression of alpha 2 beta 1 integrin in scleroderma fibroblasts

Systemic scleroderma (SSc) is a complex connective tissue disorder of unknown etiology. In early stages of the disease, fibroblasts are activated to produce large amounts of collagen with subsequent fibrosis. Collagen metabolism of fibroblasts is modulated by their contact with the extracellular matrix (ECM), which involves distinct receptors on the cell surface, mainly belonging to the integrins. We investigated the expression of collagen receptor alpha 2 beta 1 in SSc and normal fibroblasts, since this receptor has been shown to be utilized by fibroblasts for adhesion to and reorganization of collagen I. 9 strains of scleroderma fibroblasts grown as monolayer cultures were first analyzed with respect to their collagen I expression. 6 of these strains were similar to controls "low" producers) and 3 strains showed up to 2-3 x higher levels of collage I mRNA expression ("high" producers). Northern hybridization using a cDNA probe specific for the alpha 2 integrin subunit revealed a decrease of the corresponding mRNA in SSc fibroblasts as compared to controls (75% versus 100%). "High" collagen producing cell strains displayed the lowest values for alpha 2 integrin mRNA. The decrease of alpha 2 integrin subunit expression at the mRNA level in selected fibroblasts was further substantiated by radioimmunoprecipitation using specific mAbs directed against alpha 2 integrin subunit. No significant changes in beta 1 integrin expression could be observed - neither at mRNA nor at the protein level. Our data indicate a correlation between excessive synthesis of collagen and low levels of alpha 2 integrin subunit expression in SSc fibroblasts. Further experiments should clarify whether this observation is a phenomenon specific for scleroderma or whether it reflects an "activated" state of fibroblasts.

Regulation of cell adhesion and anchorage-dependent growth by a new beta 1-integrin-linked protein kinase

The interaction of cells with the extracellular matrix regulates cell shape, motility, growth, survival, differentiation and gene expression, through integrin-mediated signal transduction. We used a two-hybrid screen to isolate genes encoding proteins that interact with the beta 1-integrin cytoplasmic domain. The most frequently isolated complementary DNA encoded a new, 59K serine/threonine protein kinase, containing four ankyrin-like repeats. We report here that this integrin-linked kinase (ILK) phosphorylated a beta 1-integrin cytoplasmic domain peptide in vitro and coimmunoprecipitated with beta 1 in lysates of mammalian cells. Endogenous ILK kinase activity was reduced in response to fibronectin. Overexpression of p59ILK disrupted epithelial cell architecture and inhibited adhesion to integrin substrates, while inducing anchorage-independent growth. We propose that ILK is a receptor-proximal protein kinase regulating integrin-mediated signal transduction.

Beta 1D integrin displaces the beta 1A isoform in striated muscles: localization at junctional structures and signaling potential in nonmuscle cells

The cytoplasmic domains of integrins provide attachment of these extracellular matrix receptors to the cytoskeleton and play a critical role in integrin-mediated signal transduction. In this report we describe the identification, expression, localization, and initial functional characterization of a novel form of beta 1 integrin, termed beta 1D. This isoform contains a unique alternatively spliced cytoplasmic domain of 50 amino acids, with the last 24 amino acids encoded by an additional exon. Of these 24 amino acids, 11 are conserved when compared to the beta 1A isoform, but 13 are unique (Zhidkova, N. I., A. M. Belkin, and R. Mayne. 1995. Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 214:279-285; van der Flier, A., I. Kuikman, C. Baudoin, R, van der Neuf, and A. Sonnenberg. 1995. FEBS Lett. 369:340-344). Using an anti-peptide antibody against the beta 1D integrin subunit, we demonstrated that the beta 1D isoform is synthesized only in skeletal and cardiac muscles, while very low amounts of beta 1A were detected by immunoblot in striated muscles. Whereas beta 1A could not be detected in adult skeletal muscle fibers and cardiomyocytes by immunofluorescence, beta 1D was localized to the sarcolemma of both cell types. In skeletal muscle, beta 1D was concentrated in costameres, myotendinous, and neuromuscular junctions. In cardiac muscle this beta 1 isoform was found in costamers and intercalated discs. beta 1D was associated with alpha 7A and alpha 7B in adult skeletal muscle. In cardiomyocytes of adult heart, alpha 7B was the major partner for the beta 1D isoform. beta 1D could not be detected in proliferating C2C12 myoblasts, but it appeared immediately after myoblast fusion and its amount continued to rise during myotube growth and maturation. In contrast, expression of the beta 1A isoform was downregulated during myodifferentiation in culture and it was completely displaced by beta 1D in mature differentiated myotubes. We also analyzed some functional properties of the beta 1D integrin subunit. Expression of human beta 1D in CHO cells led to its localization at focal adhesions. Clustering of this integrin isoform on the cell surface stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of pp125FAK (focal adhesion kinase) and caused transient activation of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases. These data indicate that beta 1D and beta 1A integrin isoforms are functionally similar with regard to integrin-mediated signaling.

Extracellular matrix alters PDGF regulation of fibroblast integrins

Extracellular matrix (ECM) and growth factors are potent regulators of cell phenotype. These biological mediators of cellular responses are potentially interactive and as such could drive cells through progressive phenotypes to create new tissue as in morphogenesis and wound repair. In fact, ECM composition changes during tissue formation accompanied by alterations in cell growth and migration. How alterations in the ECM regulate cell activities is poorly defined. To address this question in wound repair, we cultured normal human dermal skin fibroblasts in relaxed collagen gels, fibronectin-rich cultures or stressed fibrin gels, and stressed collagen gels to model normal dermis, early wound provisional matrix, and late granulation tissue, respectively. Integrin subunits, alpha 2, alpha 3, and alpha 5, that define receptor specificity for collagen and provisional matrix, respectively, were measured at mRNA steady-state level before and after stimulation with platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB), a potent mitogen and chemoattractant for fibroblasts. Fibronectin-rich cultures and fibrin gels supported PDGF-BB induction of alpha 3 and alpha 5 mRNA. In contrast, both stressed and relaxed collagen attenuated these responses while promoting maximal alpha 2 mRNA expression. Posttranscriptional regulation was an important mechanism in this differential response. Together PDGF-BB and collagen gels promoted alpha 2, but not alpha 3 and alpha 5, mRNA stability. Conversely, when fibroblasts were in fibronectin-rich cultures, PDGF-BB promoted alpha 3 and alpha 5, but not alpha 2, mRNA stability. We suggest that ECM alterations during wound healing or any new tissue formation cause cells to respond differently to repeated growth factor stimuli. An ordered progression of cell phenotypes results, ultimately consummating tissue repair or morphogenesis.

The versican C-type lectin domain recognizes the adhesion protein tenascin-R

The core proteins of large chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans contain a C-type lectin domain. The lectin domain of one of these proteoglycans, versican, was expressed as a recombinant 15-kDa protein and shown to bind to insolubilized fucose and GlcNAc. The lectin domain showed strong binding in a gel blotting assay to a glycoprotein doublet in rat brain extracts. The binding was calcium dependent and abolished by chemical deglycosylation treatment of the ligand glycoprotein. The versican-binding glycoprotein was identified as the cell adhesion protein tenascin-R, and versican and tenascin-R were both found to be localized in the granular layer of rat cerebellum. These results show that the versican lectin domain is a binding domain with a highly targeted specificity. It may allow versican to assemble complexes containing proteoglycan, an adhesion protein, and hyaluronan.

Beta 3-endonexin, a novel polypeptide that interacts specifically with the cytoplasmic tail of the integrin beta 3 subunit

The adhesive and signaling functions of integrins are regulated through their cytoplasmic domains. We identified a novel 111 residue polypeptide, designated beta 3-endonexin, that interacted with the cytoplasmic tail of the beta 3 integrin subunit in a yeast two-hybrid system. This interaction is structurally specific, since it was reduced by 64% by a point mutation in the beta 3 cytoplasmic tail (S752-->P) that disrupts integrin signaling. Moreover, this interaction is integrin subunit specific since it was not observed with the cytoplasmic tails of the alpha IIb, beta 1, or beta 2 subunits. beta 3-Endonexin fusion proteins bound selectively to detergent-solubilized beta 3 from platelets and human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and beta 3-endonexin mRNA and protein were detected in platelets and other tissues. A related mRNA encoded a larger polypeptide that failed to bind to beta integrin tails. The apparent specificity of beta 3-endonexin for the beta 3 integrin subunit suggests potential mechanisms for selective modulation of integrin functions.

Monoclonal antibody 9EG7 defines a novel beta 1 integrin epitope induced by soluble ligand and manganese, but inhibited by calcium

The monoclonal antibody 9EG7 has been previously found to recognize an epitope induced by manganese on the integrin beta 1 chain (Lenter, M., Uhlig, H., Hamann, A., Jeno, P., Imhof, B., and Vestweber, D. (1993) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 90, 9051-9055). Here we show that treatment of beta 1 integrins with manganese or soluble integrin ligands (e.g. fibronectin and RGD peptide) induced the 9EG7 epitope. This epitope was also induced upon EGTA treatment to remove calcium, and the addition of calcium inhibited 9EG7 epitope induction by manganese or by ligand. Further emphasizing the importance of the 9EG7 epitope, the 9EG7 antibody itself stimulated adhesion mediated by multiple beta 1 integrins, and conversely, ligands for alpha 2 beta 1, alpha 3 beta 1, alpha 4 beta 1, and alpha 5 beta 1 all stimulated 9EG7 expression. Together these results support a model whereby (i) calcium inhibits beta 1 integrin function because it prevents the appearance of a conformation favorable to ligand binding and (ii) manganese enhances beta 1 integrin function because it induces the same favorable conformation that is induced by adding ligand, or removing calcium. Notably, other beta 1-stimulating agents (magnesium and mAb TS2/16) did not induce 9EG7 expression unless ligand was also present. Thus, although 9EG7 may reliable detect the ligand-bound conformation of beta 1 integrins, its expression does not always correlate with integrin "activation". Finally, mouse/chicken beta 1 chimeric molecules were used to map the 9EG7 epitope to beta 1 residues 495-602 within the cysteine-rich region, and antibody cross-blocking studies showed that the 9EG7 epitope is distinct from all previously defined human beta 1 epitopes.

Down regulation of talin alters cell adhesion and the processing of the alpha 5 beta 1 integrin

The role of talin was addressed by down regulating its expression using an antisense RNA strategy. HeLa cells were transfected with a talin 5′ cDNA fragment under the control of the inducible human metallothionein promotor. Isolated clones displayed a decrease in talin level down to 10% of control. The reduction in talin expression dramatically slowed down the kinetics of cell spreading. Mock-transfected cells, spread out onto fibronectin, exhibited large peripheral adhesion plaques. In contrast, cells with reduced talin expression showed smaller focal contacts localized all over the ventral face, and displayed a marked decrease in the number of stress fibers. Immunoprecipitation experiments carried out with a polyclonal antibody on surface-labeled receptor indicated a shift in the mobility for both alpha 5 and beta 1 subunits. Surprisingly, beta 1 integrin chains could not be detected by indirect immunofluorescence using monoclonal antibodies in talin deficient clones. Western blot analysis indicated the presence of two forms of beta 1. We analyzed the processing of beta 1 in normal and talin deficient cells using pulse chase experiments. Normal cells required a minimum of 5 hours for the processing of mature beta 1, while the talin deficient AT22 clone showed that the beta 1 precursor was slowly converted into a very low molecular mass product. Our data demonstrate that talin plays a central role in the establishment of cell-matrix contacts. In addition, down regulation of talin impairs the folding and processing of beta 1 integrins.

Tyrosine phosphorylation of p130Cas and cortactin accompanies integrin-mediated cell adhesion to extracellular matrix

We show in this report that two v-src substrate proteins, p130Cas and cortactin, become tyrosine-phosphorylated during integrin-mediated cell adhesion to extracellular matrix substrata and upon cell attachment onto immobilized anti-integrin antibodies. This tyrosine phosphorylation does not occur when cells attach to polylysine or through antibodies against major histocompatibility complex. It also does not take place when adhesion-mediated reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton is inhibited with cytochalasin D. Tyrosine phosphorylation of p130Cas and cortactin coincides with tyrosine phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase during integrin-mediated cell adhesion but is independent of cell adhesion in v-src-transformed cells. The tyrosine-phosphorylated sites in p130Cas and cortactin may serve as binding sites for proteins containing Src homology 2 domains, as is the case with two other integrin-regulated docking proteins, focal adhesion kinase and paxillin. Thus, these results suggest that ligand binding of integrins regulates the tyrosine phosphorylation state of multiple docking proteins. These proteins may mediate anchorage dependence of growth; their misregulation in v-src-transformed and other tumorigenic cells may be responsible for the anchorage independence of such cells.

Up-regulation of a novel integrin alpha-chain (alpha mt) on human fetal myotubes

Integrin expression and distribution was studied in cloned human fetal G6 myoblasts and myotubes. Immunoprecipitation of beta 1 integrins from surface iodinated and metabolically labeled G6 cells typically showed a five-fold induction of a beta 1 integrin associated protein upon differentiation. Under non-reducing conditions this beta 1 associated protein migrated as 145 kD. No such beta 1 associated protein was observed in the myogenic L8 rat cell line, before or after differentiation. The beta 1 integrin associated cell surface protein present in G6 myotubes remained associated with the beta 1 subunit in the presence of 1% Triton X-100 and 0.5 M NaCl. Like integrin alpha-chains, the protein dissociated from the beta 1 integrin subunit at low pH. Immunoprecipitation of G6 myotubes further indicated the presence of alpha 1, alpha 3, alpha 5, and alpha v integrins, and small amounts of alpha 4 and alpha 6 integrins. Immunodepletion with integrin alpha-chain antibodies to alpha 1, alpha 3, alpha 4, alpha 5, alpha 6, and alpha v integrin chains could not deplete the beta 1 integrin associated protein, indicating that it did not interact with any of these known integrin heterodimers. Upon treatment with reducing agents, the beta 1 integrin associated protein migrated in SDS-PAGE as a 155 kD protein. The decreased mobility in SDS-PAGE upon reduction is a feature shared with alpha 1, alpha 2, and alpha 9 integrin alpha-chains. Antibodies to alpha 1 immunoprecipitated an integrin heterodimer distinct from the 155 kD protein.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

A novel beta 1 integrin isoform produced by alternative splicing: unique expression in cardiac and skeletal muscle

The mRNA's of several integrin subunits are alternatively spliced in the region encoding cytoplasmic domains, that may potentially provide alternative integrin-cytoskeleton interactions and transmembrane signaling pathways. We identified a novel cytoplasmic tail variant of the human beta 1 subunit by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. This fourth beta 1 variant, named beta 1D, is specific for skeletal and cardiac muscle. The determined genomic organization of the 3'-region of the human beta 1 gene reveals that beta 1D is produced by alternative splicing of mRNA. In addition, we show that the expression of beta 1D is developmentally regulated during murine myoblast differentiation, suggesting a role for beta 1D in myogenesis.

Requirement of the NPXY motif in the integrin beta 3 subunit cytoplasmic tail for melanoma cell migration in vitro and in vivo

The NPXY sequence is highly conserved among integrin beta subunit cytoplasmic tails, suggesting that it plays a fundamental role in regulating integrin-mediated function. Evidence is provided that the NPXY structural motif within the beta 3 subunit, comprising residues 744-747, is essential for cell morphological and migratory responses mediated by integrin alpha v beta 3 in vitro and in vivo. Transfection of CS-1 melanoma cells with a cDNA encoding the wild-type integrin beta 3 subunit, results in de novo alpha v beta 3 expression and cell attachment, spreading, and migration on vitronectin. CS-1 cells expressing alpha v beta 3 with mutations that disrupt the NPXY sequence interact with soluble vitronectin or an RGD peptide, yet fail to attach, spread, or migrate on immobilized ligand. The biological consequences of these observations are underscored by the finding that CS-1 cells expressing wild-type alpha v beta 3 acquire the capacity to form spontaneous pulmonary metastases in the chick embryo when grown on the chorioallantoic membrane. However, migration-deficient CS-1 cells expressing alpha v beta 3 with mutations in the NPXY sequence lose this ability to metastasize. These findings demonstrate that the NPXY motif within the integrin beta 3 cytoplasmic tail is essential for alpha v beta 3-dependent post-ligand binding events involved in cell migration and the metastatic phenotype of melanoma cells.

High levels of fibronectin in the stroma of aural cholesteatoma

PURPOSE

Because abundant fibronectin deposition is a hallmark of healing cutaneous wounds and provides a matrix for hyperproliferative and migratory epidermal cells, the distribution of fibronectin in aural cholesteatoma was investigated immunohistochemically.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A monoclonal antibody against the major cell binding domain of human fibronectin was used to stain 4-micron cryosections of cholesteatoma tissue by the alkaline phospatase-antialkaline phosphatase method. Section of normal retroauricular skin served as control.

RESULTS

When processed in parallel, fibronectin staining was much stronger in the stroma of cholesteatoma than in normal dermis. The squamous epithelium of both tissues did not show any staining for fibronectin.

CONCLUSIONS

These observations lend support to the view that the growth of cholesteatoma epithelium reflects an aberrant regenerative process.

The alpha 5 beta 1 integrin supports survival of cells on fibronectin and up-regulates Bcl-2 expression

Anchorage-dependent cells that are prevented from attaching to an extracellular matrix substrate stop proliferating and may undergo apoptosis. Cell adhesion to a substrate is mediated by the integrin family of cell surface receptors, which are known to elicit intracellular signals upon cell adhesion. We show here that Chinese hamster ovary cells expressing the alpha 5 beta 1 integrin, which is a fibronectin receptor, do not undergo apoptosis upon serum withdrawal when the cells are plated on fibronectin. However, the alpha v beta 1 integrin, which is also a fibronectin receptor and binds fibronectin on the same RGD motif as alpha 5 beta 1, did not prevent apoptosis on fibronectin of the same cells. The cytoplasmic domain of the integrin alpha 5 subunit was required for the alpha 5 beta 1-mediated cell survival on fibronectin. The fibronectin-mediated survival effect appeared to be independent of the level of tyrosine phosphorylation of the focal adhesion kinase, which is induced by integrin-mediated cell attachment. The expression of the Bcl-2 protein, which counteracts apoptosis, was elevated in cells attaching to fibronectin through alpha 5 beta 1; cells attaching through alpha v beta 1 survived only if exogenous Bcl-2 was provided. Thus, alpha 5 beta 1, but not the closely related alpha v beta 1 integrin, appears to suppress apoptotic cell death through the Bcl-2 pathway.

Cloning and sequence of the cDNA encoding the rat oligodendrocyte integrin beta 1 subunit

We have isolated a cDNA clone encoding an integrin (Itg) beta-subunit polypeptide from a rat cerebral cortex oligodendroglia cDNA library. This beta-subunit was previously designated beta OL (OL for oligodendroglia), since it had an M(r) that differed from that of the rat fibroblast beta 1 protein. The complete nucleotide sequence encoding the signal sequence and mature protein was determined. Comparison of the deduced amino acid (aa) sequence of beta OL to those of integrin beta subunits from other species revealed that beta OL is a member of the integrin (Itg) beta 1 class. The aa sequence of beta OL shows 78.5-97.9% similarity to beta 1 chains from four other species and displays all the features characteristic of the Itg beta subunits, indicating the high degree of structural conservation seen in this subunit of the Itg receptors.

Divalent cations (Mg2+, Ca2+) differentially influence the beta 1 integrin-mediated migration of human fibroblasts and keratinocytes to different extracellular matrix proteins

Directed migration of keratinocytes and fibroblasts is a fundamental prerequisite in wound healing. Cation-dependent affinity changes of integrins are responsible for cell adhesion to and deadhesion from extracellular matrix proteins and have been implicated in driving cell migration. The specific requirements for divalent cations in the integrin-dependent migration of human dermal fibroblasts and human epidermal keratinocytes to various extracellular matrix proteins have been studied in vitro using blindwell Boyden chambers. The migration of the tested cells to collagen type I was mediated by the alpha 2 beta 1 integrins, to fibronectin by the combined action of the alpha 3 beta 1 and the alpha 5 beta 1 integrin, and the migration of fibroblasts to laminin dependent both on the alpha 2 beta 1 and the alpha 6 beta 1 integrins. No migration of keratinocytes to laminin was detected. Mg2+ alone induced cell migration with an optimum at 2 mM for fibroblasts and at 10 mM for keratinocytes. Ca2+ alone at 2 mM only marginally enhanced fibroblast and keratinocyte migration. At higher concentrations Ca2+ suppressed the stimulatory Mg2+ effect. 2 mM Ca2+ combined with 2 mM Mg2+ showed an additive stimulatory effect on the migration of fibroblasts to fibronectin. These data suggest that extracellular divalent cations differentially influence the integrin-mediated cell migration. A concentration gradient of Mg2+/Ca2+, as reported in tissue injury, thus may play a regulatory role in cell migration required for tissue remodelling.

An alternatively spliced exon in the extracellular domain of the human alpha 6 integrin subunit--functional analysis of the alpha 6 integrin variants

Variants in the extracellular domain of the integrin alpha 7 subunit which arise as a consequence of alternative splicing of mRNA have recently been reported. Two alternative exons, X1 and X2, have been identified in the alpha 7 gene, and homologous exons were found for alpha 6 (Ziober et al., 1993). In this study, we have isolated the region of the alpha 6 gene containing exons X1 and X2 that are, like those of alpha 7, located between stretches of DNA that encode the homologous repeat domains III and IV, proximal to the three divalent cation binding sites of the alpha 6 subunit. We demonstrated by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reactions and confirmed by sequencing that alpha 6X1 and alpha 6X1X2 mRNAs are generated by alternative splicing of exon X2. The alpha 6X1X2 mRNA is expressed in a limited number of tissues and cell lines and it is always co-expressed with the ubiquitous alpha 6X1 mRNA. Stable transfection of K562 cells with full length cDNAs for the alpha 6AX1X2 and beta 4 subunits resulted in cell populations that expressed the alpha 6AX1X2 variant, in association with either beta 1 or beta 4, on their surface. In addition, a population of cells was isolated that expressed the alpha 6AX1X2 variant at low levels and almost exclusively in association with beta 1. Comparison of the alpha 6AX1X2 integrins with alpha 6AX1 using similarly transfected cells showed no obvious differences between the alternative extracellular alpha 6A isoforms with respect to ligand specificity and activation-dependency of ligand binding. After treatment with the anti-beta 1 stimulatory antibody TS2/16, both the alpha 6AX1 beta 1 and alpha 6AX1X2 beta 1 integrin variants mediated cell adhesion to EHS tumor laminin (laminin-1), kalinin (laminin-5), human placental (laminin-2 and -4) and bovine kidney laminins. In contrast, the alpha 6AX1 beta 4 and alpha 6AX1X2 beta 4 integrins also mediated cell adhesion to laminin and kalinin without stimulation. Furthermore, the different transfectants did not differ in their ability to spread on kalinin. The presented data indicate that the X2 region in alpha 6 is not involved in defining ligand specificity or affinity.

Regulation of integrin affinity states through an NPXY motif in the beta subunit cytoplasmic domain

The ligand binding affinities of the integrins are regulated through their cytoplasmic domains. To identify specific residues that are involved in this process, we have generated mutants in the beta 1 and beta 3 tails and coexpressed them in Chinese hamster ovary cells with constitutively active alpha subunits. These alpha subunits are chimera of extra-cellular and transmembrane alpha IIb joined to the cytoplasmic domains of alpha 5, alpha 6A, or alpha 6B and confer an energy-dependent high affinity state when expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells. The affinity state of these transfectants was determined by analyzing the binding of PAC1, an antibody that specifically recognizes the activated form of the reporter group, extracellular alpha IIb beta 3. We have identified point mutants in several areas of the beta tails, which result in a reduced ability to bind ligand. Complete abolition of PAC1 binding was obtained with mutants in an NPXY motif found in many integrin beta subunits and implicated in the internalization of other cell surface receptors. Similar effects on PAC1 binding were observed whether coexpression was with alpha chimera containing alpha 5, alpha 6A, or alpha 6B cytoplasmic sequences. These studies identify a novel role for the NPXY motif in the regulation of integrin binding affinity.

Expression of membrane-associated C-reactive protein by human monocytes: indications for a selectin-like activity participating in adhesion

We have shown previously that rat liver macrophages (Kupffer cells) express a membrane-bound form of C-reactive protein (mCRP) on their surface which is identical to a galactose-specific particle receptor activity. We now establish the presence of mCRP on human monocyte-macrophages using immunocytochemistry with an anti-neoCRP specific monoclonal antibody and RNA-RNA in situ hybridization to demonstrate the presence of CRP-specific mRNA. Concomitant with mCRP expression, cells exhibit galactose-dependent uptake of particles coated with lactosylated bovine serum albumin. Adhesion experiments on fibronectin-coated surfaces that mCRP on human blood monocytes may act as a selectin-like adhesion molecule, mediating initial carbohydrate-specific contacts which are followed by peptide-specific recognition via integrin receptors.

Adhesion molecules in normal and pathological corneas. An immunohistochemical study using monoclonal antibodies

BACKGROUND

Adhesion molecules are cell surface receptors that are probably important in various cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions of the cornea.

METHOD

In this immunohistochemical light-microscopic study we analyzed the expression pattern of adhesion molecules in normal and pathological human corneas (cases of corneal inflammation and degenerative disorders). The analyzed molecules included the beta 1 integrin or VLA family VLA-1-6, the beta 2 integrins or leukocyte integrins LFA-1, Mac-1, and p150,95, the immunoglobulins LFA-3, CD2, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 and the selectins ELAM-1 and GMP-140.

RESULTS

Inflamed cornea (in contrast to normal cornea). On corneal epithelium, increased expression of the alpha 2 subunit of VLA-2 was detected and ICAM-1 was induced on the basal epithelial cells. On corneal stromal keratocytes, LFA-3 was induced and expression of the alpha subunits of VLA-1-6 and ICAM-1 was increased. On vascular endothelium, VCAM-1 and ELAM-1 were induced and ICAM-1 and GMP-140 expression was increased. On corneal endothelium, ELAM-1 was induced and increased levels of the alpha 1 subunit of VLA-1 and GMP-140 were expressed. Degenerative disorders (in contrast to normal cornea): In corneas with degenerative disorders we found decreased expression of adhesion molecules.

CONCLUSION

Inflammatory cytokines increase the expression of the adhesion molecules. Increased expression of the VLAs probably promotes cell-extracellular matrix and cell-cell interactions. ICAM-1, VCAM-1, LFA-3, ELAM-1 and GMP-140 expression was increased on vascular endothelium in inflamed corneas. Corresponding receptors on leukocytes probably enable a selective recruitment of different leukocyte populations in inflammatory corneal diseases. The decreased expression of adhesion molecules in corneal degenerative disorders is probably a sign of reduced cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions.

Integrin alpha 5 during early development of Xenopus laevis

The full length sequence of the Xenopus integrin alpha 5 subunit is reported. Analysis of cloned cDNA fragments reveals that alternative polyadenylation of alpha 5 mRNA occurs in the embryo. Furthermore, a variant form of the alpha 5 mRNA is expressed which encodes an integrin alpha 5 subunit with a truncated cytoplasmic domain. Integrin alpha 5 mRNA and protein are expressed in oocytes, eggs and throughout development. Spatial expression of alpha 5 mRNAs is first detected by whole mount in situ hybridization in presumptive neural crest cells and in the somitic mesoderm from the midgastrula stage onwards. In contrast, the alpha 5 protein is present on newly formed plasma membranes beginning at first cleavage. During neurulation, the integrin alpha 5 subunit disappears from the outer layer of the ectoderm, the notochord and the neural tube and accumulates in the sensorial layer of the ectoderm, the somites and the neural crest cells. These results provide evidence for the position specific regulation of alpha subunit expression in early vertebrate embryos.

The capacity of human malignant B-lymphocytes to disseminate in SCID mice is correlated with functional expression of the fibronectin receptor alpha 5 beta 1 (CD49e/CD29)

The alpha 5 beta 1 integrin (CD49e/CD29), a heterodimeric membrane protein, is the "classical" fibronectin receptor on many cell types. During B-cell ontogeny, expression of the alpha 5-subunit is developmentally regulated. The alpha 5 beta 1 is decisive for migration on fibronectin substrate and very likely cooperates with other adhesion molecules in transvascular trafficking. To test whether alpha 5 beta 1 influences local growth vs. disseminative spread of neoplastic B-cells in vivo, human B-cell lines mimicking different maturational stages were transferred s.c. into severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice and examined for alpha 5 beta 1 expression and for adherence on fibronectin substrate in vitro and ex vivo. All cell lines were locally tumorigenic. Dissemination was observed in all animals carrying Nalm-6 tumors, in one animal with a BL 60 and in 2 mice carrying a Raji tumor. By contrast, Daudi, BJAB and U266 tumors did not disseminate. As evidenced by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry, all lines and their tumors were to various extents beta 1-positive but showed considerable differences in alpha 5 expression. The functional surface expression of alpha 5 beta 1 correlated with fibronectin adherence of the lines. Daudi expressed alpha 5 beta 1 in a non-functional configuration which was rendered functional only upon applying high concentrations of Mg++ and Mn++. B-cell lines functionally expressing alpha 5 beta 1 at high or moderate levels disseminated in SCID mice while alpha 5-negative lines and Daudi did not. These results support the conclusion drawn from an earlier in situ analysis of human B-cell lymphomas/leukemias that the alpha 5 beta 1 integrin contributes to the disseminative phenotype of malignant B cells.

Cerebral microenvironment influences expression of the vitronectin gene in astrocytic tumors

Expression of the vitronectin gene was detected in advanced human astrocytoma by in situ hybridization, whereas vitronectin mRNA was undetectable in low grade tumors or in normal adult brain, indicating that vitronectin is a marker of malignant astrocytoma. We established a model of human astrocytoma by transplanting U-251MG human astrocytoma cells intracerebrally into acid mice (C.B.17 severe combined immunodeficient mice). In this model, tumors progressed rapidly and vitronectin mRNA was preferentially detected at the invading tumor margins, i.e. where tumor cells were adjacent to the normal brain tissue. Surprisingly, when U-251MG cells were injected subcutaneously into scid mice, vitronectin mRNA was undetectable throughout the tumor. Moreover, vitronectin mRNA or protein could not be detected among these cells in culture under a wide variety of growth conditions. These findings demonstrate that the cerebral microenvironment influences the expression of the vitronectin gene in malignant astrocytoma. Importantly, the vitronectin binding integrins alpha v beta 3 and alpha v beta 5 localized to distinct sites within these tumors, with beta 3 mRNA synthesized among invading cells, and alpha v and beta 5 mRNAs detected throughout the tumor. In vitro, both of these receptors were capable of promoting adhesion and invasion of astrocytoma cells on a vitronectin substratum. These findings implicate the expression of the vitronectin gene as a contributing factor to the biological behavior of astrocytomas within the cerebral microenvironment.

Crystal structure of the A domain from the alpha subunit of integrin CR3 (CD11b/CD18)

We have determined the high resolution crystal structure of the A domain from the alpha chain of integrin CR3. The domain adopts a classic alpha/beta "Rossmann" fold and contains an unusual Mg2+ coordination site at its surface. One of the coordinating ligands is the glutamate side chain from another A domain molecule. We suggest that this site represents a general metal ion-dependent adhesion site (MIDAS) for binding protein ligands. We further propose that the beta subunits of integrins contain a MIDAS motif within a modified A domain. Our crystal structure will allow reliable models to be built for other members of the A domain superfamily and should facilitate development of novel adhesion modulatory drugs.

Sequence and tissue distribution of the human integrin alpha 8 subunit: a beta 1-associated alpha subunit expressed in smooth muscle cells

Integrins are a major family of cell adhesion molecules involved in cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions. Each integrin is a heterodimeric glycoprotein composed of an alpha and a beta subunit. We now report the cDNA sequence and distribution of a new human integrin alpha subunit. This sequence is 78% identical to the previously reported chicken alpha 8 integrin sequence. Thus, we have designated this subunit as human alpha 8. By northern blot analysis, an alpha 8 probe detects two mRNA species of approximately 6.5 and 4.0 kb in neuroglioma H4 cells. An anti-alpha 8 polyclonal antibody precipitates a protein complex containing the beta 1 subunit associated with the putative alpha 8 subunit, which has an apparent molecular mass of 180 kDa (non-reduced) or 155 kDa and 25 kDa (reduced). Immunohistochemistry with anti-alpha 8 polyclonal antibody in adult rat tissues shows prominent staining in vascular and visceral smooth muscle. In addition, the antibody strongly stained kidney mesangial cells and a cell type in the alveolar wall of the lungs, most likely corresponding to alveolar myofibroblasts. These results suggest that in adult mammalian tissues, alpha 8 is predominantly expressed in smooth muscle and smooth muscle-like contractile cells.

Identification and localization of integrin subunits in oocytes and eggs of the mouse

Results of a recent study have implicated egg integrins in sperm binding to the egg plasma membrane (Blobel et al., 1991: Nature 356:248-252). In this report, immunoprecipitation was used to identify, and confocal immunofluorescence microscopy was used to localize, several different integrin subunits in mouse eggs. Antibodies to alpha 2, alpha 5, alpha v, and beta 1 subunits, as well as antibodies to the fibronectin receptor (FNR; alpha 5 beta 1 and/or alpha 3 beta 1) and vitronectin receptor (VNR; alpha v beta 3 and/or alpha v beta 5), detect polypeptides of the appropriate molecular weights following immunoprecipitation. beta 1 is localized preferentially to either the microvillar or amicrovillar membrane/cortical regions of eggs, and these asymmetric localizations depend on the antibody used. Proteins recognized by anti-FNR antibodies are localized preferentially to the amicrovillar membrane/cortical region. Germinal vesicle-intact oocytes display a symmetric plasma membrane distribution using beta 1 and FNR antibodies, and the asymmetric distribution develops as a consequence of oocyte maturation and is clearly observed by metaphase I. In contrast to the membrane localization of these integrin subunits, alpha 2, alpha 5, and VNR are predominantly localized in the cytoplasm of both oocytes and eggs. In the oocyte, each of these integrin subunits is uniformly distributed throughout the cytoplasm. Oocyte maturation is associated with a redistribution of alpha 5 and VNR, leading to an asymmetric cytoplasmic distribution with an increased localization towards the spindle. alpha v, which is localized in the plasma membrane/cortex of both oocytes and eggs, does not show such a change during oocyte maturation. Results of these experiments are discussed in the context of a role for integrins in mediating sperm plasma membrane-egg plasma membrane interactions leading to egg activation.

Beta 2 (CD18) mutations abolish ligand recognition by I domain integrins LFA-1 (alpha L beta 2, CD11a/CD18) and MAC-1 (alpha M beta 2, CD11b/CD18)

The "I" domains of the beta 2 (CD18) leukocyte integrins are implicated in ligand binding function. Moreover, rather than recognizing linear peptide sequences, this class of integrins generally recognizes multiple discontinuous sites on immunoglobulin superfamily adhesion receptors. A conserved cluster of oxygenated residues is involved in ligand recognition by beta 1 and beta 3 integrins. In the present study, we evaluated the role of this region in the I domain-containing beta 2 integrins. Recombinant alpha L beta 2 (LFA-1, CD11a/CD18) and alpha M beta 2 (MAC-1, CD11b/CD18) were expressed on COS cells, and function was assessed by adhesion to ICAM-1 or iC3b, respectively. Alanine substitution at position Asp134 or Ser136 in beta 2 produced a complete loss in the capacity of both alpha L beta 2 and alpha M beta 2 to support cell adhesion. In contrast, substitution at Asp128 or Ser138 resulted in loss of beta 2 surface expression when co-transfected with alpha L (CD11a) or alpha M (CD11b). These data provide the first evidence for involvement of the beta 2 subunit in ligand binding to I domain integrins.

Rodent myoblast interactions with laminin require cell surface glycoconjugates but not laminin glycosyl groups

Laminin glycosyl groups are necessary for the spreading of murine melanoma cells which become attached to this glycoprotein. Laminin has been implicated in myogenesis but the potential role of its glycosyl groups in this process has not been examined. In this study we report the effects of the carbohydrate moieties of laminin on myoblast adhesion, spreading, and differentiation. Unglycosylated laminin from tunicamycin-treated cultures of a mouse cell line, M1536 B3, was used in the experiments. Glycosylated laminin from a murine tumor and from cultures of M1563 B3 cells served as controls. Cell binding experiments with C2C12 mouse myoblasts showed that the cells preferred a laminin-coated surface, compared to the uncoated plastic surface (nontissue culture wells). Myoblasts did not distinguish between glycosylated and unglycosylated laminin substrates. Both glycosylated and unglycosylated forms of laminin promoted myoblast growth and differentiation. In contrast, cells on uncoated plastic surfaces grew very slowly and did not further differentiate. The L6 rat myoblast response to glycosylated and unglycosylated laminin was the same. These results indicate that although rodent myoblasts in culture require a laminin substratum for spreading, growth, and differentiation on a proprietary plastic surface, laminin carbohydrates are not implicated in those cellular responses. In contrast, parallel studies using the lectin, Con A, indicate that cell surface glycoconjugates of myoblasts are implicated in the response of these cells to a laminin substratum.

Fibronectin, laminin, vitronectin and their receptors at newly-formed capillaries in proliferative diabetic retinopathy

Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is characterized by intraocular formation of fibroglial vascularized tissue by active vasoproliferative mechanisms. Using immunocytochemistry, we have studied changes in the distribution pattern of fibronectin (FN), laminin (LN), vitronectin (VN) and their receptors in the newly-formed capillaries of PDR. In intraocular vascularized tissue of PDR patients, FN was present on both luminal and basal surfaces of endothelial cells, and was diffusely distributed in the interpericyte space. LN was also associated with the interpericyte space. VN was occasionally detected on the luminal capillary side, but was frequent in the basal aspect of the endothelium in the interpericyte space, where it was colocalized with FN. Beta-1 subunit complex receptors were detected on the luminal side, while alpha v beta 3 integrin was identified on both sides, more so in the luminal than in the basal endothelial domain. By slot-blotting techniques and densitometric analysis, increased concentrations of intravitreous FN and VN were found in PDR in comparison with normal samples. These results suggest that FN, VN and LN have a key role in the structural arrangement of newly formed capillaries in PDR, and that receptor expression could be involved in events of endothelial cell adhesion and proliferation.

Active sites of ligands and their receptors are made of common peptides that are also found elsewhere

The simultaneous emergence in evolution of a ligand and its receptor might have entailed their active sites being drawn from the pool of common oligopeptides. This was tested on the principal components of cell-matrix interaction: the RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp) site of matrix proteins and the EKKD (Gly-Lys-Lys-Asp) site of integrin cell-surface receptor. In the 32 diverse proteins scrutinized, which totalled 14,806 residues, there were 104 Arg-Gly dipeptides. Most common of the tripeptides beginning with Arg-Gly were Arg-Gly-Leu, Arg-Gly-Gly, and Arg-Gly-Asp; each was found in ten copies. RGD tripeptide was one of the commonest; the fortuitous presence of an RGD site was noted in two enzymes, fibrinogen, a pituitary hormone precursor, and a viral structural protein. The 32 proteins also contained 121 Lys-Lys dipeptides. Of the tetrapeptides centered by Lys-Lys, the commonest was Lys-Lys-Lys-Lys, in four copies. Second most common were Gly-Lys-Lys-Lys, Val-Lys-Lys-Leu, and Glu-Lys-Lys-Asp; each occurred in three copies. The fortuitous presence of an EKKD site was noted in three proteins--an intracellular transport protein, a pituitary hormone precursor and a protein of the cerebrospinal fluid. In most instances, protein-protein interaction between the fortuitously present active sites appears to bring about deleterious consequences. Occasionally, however, the fortuitous active site appears to confer a new function to a protein bearing it.

Altered interaction of human granulation-tissue fibroblasts with fibronectin is regulated by alpha 5 beta 1 integrin

Granulation-tissue fibroblasts express an unique phenotype distinct from normal fibroblasts. Due to the importance of the cell-matrix interactions in the regulation of cell morphology and behavior, we have compared the cell adhesion apparatus, especially integrin-type receptors, in fibroblasts cultured from healthy human periodontal connective tissues and from chronic and wound granulation tissues. The spreading of granulation-tissue cells on fibronectin, but not on type I collagen or laminin, was slower when compared with the normal fibroblasts. Cell spreading on fibronectin could be inhibited by RGD-containing peptide, suggesting integrin-mediated interaction. Both cell types expressed beta 1 integrin subunit, which associated with several integrin alpha subunits, namely alpha 1, alpha 2, alpha 3, alpha 5 and alpha v. In addition to beta 1 subunit, alpha v chain formed heterodimers with beta 3 and beta 5 subunits. Thus, these cells have multiple putative fibronectin, laminin, collagen, and vitronectin receptors. Cell spreading of both cell types on fibronectin was inhibited with anti-beta 1 and anti-alpha 5 antibodies, but antibodies against other putative FN-binding integrins (alpha 3, alpha v, and alpha v beta 3) had no effects. Furthermore, granulation-tissue fibroblasts showed delayed spreading on substrates coated with anti-beta 1 or anti-alpha 5 integrin antibodies. On substrates coated with anti-alpha 3 antibody, both cell types spread equally well. By FACS analysis, the amount of beta 1 and alpha 5 integrin subunits expressed on the cell surfaces was slightly elevated in GTFs compared with HGFs. Thus, the findings in this study indicate that the weakened interaction of granulation-tissue fibroblasts with fibronectin is regulated by altered function of alpha 5 beta 1 integrin.

Manipulation of cellular interactions with biomaterials toward a therapeutic outcome: a perspective

Manipulation of the wound healing process and the manner in which tissues interact with inert biomaterials were both made possible with the discovery of arginine-glycine-aspartic (RGD) acid as a major cell recognition signal in the extracellular matrix. Whether promoting cell adhesion or selectively inhibiting cell-cell aggregation mediated by integrin cell surface receptors, RGD-containing peptides can be rationally designed to incorporate both stability and integrin specificity. Synthetic peptides containing this sequence have been linked to biodegradable biopolymers and introduced for the enhancement of dermal and corneal would healing. By accelerating the healing reaction using RGD-containing peptides, the quality of regenerated tissue seems to be improved, the extent of fibrosis restricted, and the risk of microbial infection may be reduced. Controlling the degree of fibrosis that often accompanies the healing of wounds and the reaction of tissue to foreign materials can also be achieved by natural antagonists of fibrogenic activity of TGF-beta animal models of kidney fibrosis. These advances in the biotechnology of wound healing and tissue regeneration eventually will have an overall impact on the quality of health care.

Single subunit chimeric integrins as mimics and inhibitors of endogenous integrin functions in receptor localization, cell spreading and migration, and matrix assembly

The ability of single subunit chimeric receptors containing various integrin beta intracellular domains to mimic and/or inhibit endogenous integrin function was examined. Chimeric receptors consisting of the extracellular and transmembrane domains of the small subunit of the human interleukin-2 receptor connected to either the beta 1, beta 3, beta 3B, or beta 5 intracellular domain were transiently expressed in normal human fibroblasts. When expressed at relatively low levels, the beta 3 and beta 5 chimeras mimicked endogenous ligand-occupied integrins and, like the beta 1 chimera (LaFlamme, S. E., S. K. Akiyama, and K. M. Yamada. 1992. J. Cell Biol. 117:437), concentrated with endogenous integrins in focal adhesions and sites of fibronectin fibril formation. In contrast, the chimeric receptor containing the beta 3B intracellular domain (a beta 3 intracellular domain modified by alternative splicing) was expressed diffusely on the cell surface, indicating that alternative splicing can regulate integrin receptor distribution by an intracellular mechanism. Furthermore, when expressed at higher levels, the beta 1 and beta 3 chimeric receptors functioned as dominant negative mutants and inhibited endogenous integrin function in localization to fibronectin fibrils, fibronectin matrix assembly, cell spreading, and cell migration. The beta 5 chimera was a less effective inhibitor, and the beta 3B chimera and the reporter lacking an intracellular domain did not inhibit endogenous integrin function. Comparison of the relative levels of expression of the transfected beta 1 chimera and the endogenous beta 1 subunit indicated that in 10 to 15 h assays, the beta 1 chimera can inhibit cell spreading when expressed at levels approximately equal to the endogenous beta 1 subunit. Levels of chimeric receptor expression that inhibited cell spreading also inhibited cell migration, whereas lower levels were able to inhibit alpha 5 beta 1 localization to fibrils and matrix assembly. Our results indicate that single subunit chimeric integrins can mimic and/or inhibit endogenous integrin receptor function, presumably by interacting with cytoplasmic components critical for endogenous integrin function. Our results also demonstrate that beta intracellular domains, expressed in this context, display specificity in their abilities to mimic and inhibit endogenous integrin function. Furthermore, the approach that we have used permits the analysis of intracellular domain function in the processes of cell spreading, migration and extracellular matrix assembly independent of effects due to the rest of integrin dimers. This approach should prove valuable in the further analysis of integrin intracellular domain function in these and other integrin-mediated processes requiring the interaction of integrins with cytoplasmic components.

Altered localization and cytoplasmic domain-binding properties of tyrosine-phosphorylated beta 1 integrin

We describe a novel approach to study tyrosine-phosphorylated (PY) integrins in cells transformed by virally encoded tyrosine kinases. We have synthesized a peptide (PY beta 1 peptide) that represents a portion of the cytoplasmic domain of the beta 1 integrin subunit and is phosphorylated on the tyrosine residue known to be the target of oncogenic tyrosine kinases. Antibodies prepared against the PY beta 1 peptide, after removal of cross-reacting antibodies by absorption and affinity purification, recognized the PY beta 1 peptide and the tyrosine-phosphorylated form of the intact beta 1 subunit, but did not bind the nonphosphorylated beta 1 peptide, the nonphosphorylated beta 1 subunit or other unrelated tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins. The anti-PY beta 1 antibodies labeled the podosomes of Rous sarcoma virus-transformed fibroblasts, but did not detectably stain nontransformed fibroblasts. The localization of the tyrosine phosphorylated beta 1 subunits appeared distinct from that of the beta 1 subunit. Adhesion plaques were stained by the anti-beta 1 subunit antibodies in Rous sarcoma virus-transformed fibroblasts plated on fibronectin, whereas neither podosomes nor adhesion plaques were labeled on vitronectin or on uncoated plates. Anti-phosphotyrosine antibodies labeled podosomes, adhesion plaques and cell-cell boundaries regardless of the substratum. One of the SH2 domains of the p85 subunit of phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase bound to the PY beta 1 peptide, but not to the non-phosphorylated beta 1 cytoplasmic peptide. Other SH2 domains did not bind to the PY beta 1 peptide. These results show that the phosphorylated form of the beta 1 integrin subunit is detected in a different subcellular localization than the nonphosphorylated form and suggest that the phosphorylation on tyrosine of the beta 1 subunit cytoplasmic domain may affect cellular signaling pathways.

The regulation of alpha 5 beta 1 integrin expression in human muscle cells

The expression of alpha 5 beta 1 integrin was examined in either cloned or fluorescence-activated cell-sorted satellite cells derived from human biceps muscle. Removal of serum and factors required for muscle cell growth and proliferation both induced terminal differentiation and resulted in a coordinate downregulation of mRNA transcripts encoding alpha 5 and beta 1 integrin subunits. A corresponding downregulation of the alpha 5 subunit occurred at the protein level. Treatment of cultures with 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BUdR), a thymidine analog which inhibits muscle cell differentiation, resulted in increased expression of alpha 5 integrin subunit at both the mRNA and protein levels. However, levels of alpha 5 subunit message and protein were still markedly downregulated on removal of serum and growth factors from BUdR-treated cultures, indicating that downregulation of alpha 5 beta 1 integrin during myogenesis does not require and is not a consequence of muscle cell terminal differentiation. Downregulation of alpha 5 integrin subunit expression could be prevented by maintenance of cells in medium supplemented with serum and growth factors, although no single defined component of this medium could on its own prevent the downregulation of alpha 5 integrin subunit expression. Collectively, these results suggest that downregulation of alpha 5 beta 1 integrin expression is not a consequence of muscle cell terminal differentiation, but is dependent on a combination of exogenous growth factors which are also required for muscle cell growth and proliferation.

The size of the intracellular beta 1-integrin precursor pool regulates maturation of beta 1-integrin subunit and associated alpha-subunits

A large pool of precursor beta 1-integrin subunits is frequently found intracellularly. During malignant transformation this pool often disappears. Concomitantly, integrin-mediated cell-adhesion functions are disturbed, even though no change in the number of beta 1-integrin receptors on the cell surface can be observed. Here, we have studied the role of an intracellular pre-beta 1-integrin pool by transfecting human MG-63 osteosarcoma cells with plasmid construction producing an antisense RNA for the beta 1-integrin subunit. Stable cell clones expressing beta 1-integrin antisense RNA were shown to have a reduced intracellular pool of pre-beta 1-integrin subunits. In the antisense-transfected cells, the synthesis of the beta 1-integrin chain was reduced by 65% compared with non-transfected or vector-transfected MG-63 cells. The decreased synthesis of the beta 1-integrin chain was associated with accelerated maturation of the beta 1-integrin chain (half-maturation time about 5 h in antisense-transfected cells compared with about 10.5 h in control cells), whereas maturation of the alpha-integrin chain slowed down. The amount of beta 1-integrins on the cell surface, however, remained unaltered. Cell clones with the largest decrease in the relative amount of the pre-beta 1-integrin subunit also showed altered integrin function. They were found to synthesize fibronectin, but were unable to assemble it into a fibronectin matrix on the cell surface. Thus we conclude that the repression of biosynthesis of the beta 1-integrin chain leads to alterations in receptor maturation and may be connected with altered receptor function.

A new alternative transcript encodes a 60 kDa truncated form of integrin beta 3

A cDNA for integrin beta 3 isolated from a human erythroleukaemia (HEL) cell library contained a 340 bp insert at position 1281. This mRNA, termed beta 3c, results from the use of a cryptic AG donor splice site in intron 8 of the beta 3 gene, and is different from a previously described alternative beta 3 mRNA. The predicted open reading frame of beta 3C stops at a TAG stop codon 69 bp downstream from position 1281. It starts with the signal peptide and the 404 N-terminal extracellular residues of beta 3, encompassing the ligand binding sites, followed by 23 C-terminal intron-derived residues, corresponding to a truncated form of beta 3 lacking the cysteine-rich, transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains. Expression of beta 3C mRNA was demonstrated in human platelets, megakaryocytes, endothelial cells and HEL cells by reverse transcriptase/PCR. The beta 3C transcript was also demonstrated in the mouse, suggesting its conservation through evolution. Finally, a 60 kDa polypeptide corresponding to the beta 3C alternative transcript was demonstrated in platelets by Western blotting using a polyclonal antibody raised against a synthetic peptide designed from the beta 3C intronic sequence. Taken together, these results suggest a biological role for beta 3C, the first alternative transcript showing an altered extracellular domain of a beta integrin.

The tumor microenvironment: possible role of integrins and the extracellular matrix in tumor biological behavior of intratubular germ cell neoplasia and testicular seminomas

In the present study, we examined the distribution of integrin subunits and extracellular matrix proteins in normal testis, intratubular germ cell neoplasia (ITGCN), and primary and metastatic seminomas. Compared to normal testis in ITGCN, Sertoli cells showed increased expression of alpha 3, alpha 6, and beta 1 integrin subunits. Malignant intratubular germ cells stained for alpha 3, alpha 6, and beta 1 integrin subunits. Progression of ITGCN to invasive seminoma was associated with loss of alpha 3 integrin subunit expression by tumor cells. Consequent to this loss, it can be speculated that the strong expression on ITGCN may be related to the noninvasive character of the lesion as is also known from other noninvasive tumors. All tumors showed a strong expression of alpha 6 and beta 1 integrin subunits. The alpha 5 integrin subunit was weakly expressed in primary seminomas in all stages. No differences were observed in integrin expression between primary and metastatic tumors. The distribution of extracellular matrix proteins was heterogeneous and revealed clear architectural differences between seminomas that may reflect different stages of tumor stroma formation. To our knowledge, the results presented in this study provide the first information on the possible role of tumor-extracellular matrix interactions in the biological behavior of ITGCN and testicular seminomas.

Contrasting roles for integrin beta 1 and beta 5 cytoplasmic domains in subcellular localization, cell proliferation, and cell migration

To carry out a detailed comparison of the roles of integrin beta 1 and beta 5 cytoplasmic domains, we expressed both wild type beta 1 and chimeric beta 1/5 constructs in CHO cells. In the latter, the cytoplasmic domain of beta 1 was replaced with that of beta 5. The human beta 1 and beta 1/5 constructs appeared at similar levels at the cell surface (mostly as alpha 5 beta 1 heterodimers) and contributed equally to CHO cell adhesion to fibronectin. However, beta 1 but not beta 1/5 localized to focal adhesion-like structures when CHO cells were spread on fibronectin. Furthermore, only the beta 1-CHO cells showed increased proliferation in response to fibronectin plus an integrin-activating anti-beta 1 antibody, and showed increased appearance of 32P-labeled protein (p90) that correlated with proliferation. In sharp contrast, the beta 1/5-CHO cells were notably more migratory than beta 1-CHO cells in a transwell haptotactic migration assay. These results indicate that the beta 1 and beta 5 integrin subunit cytoplasmic domains can translate similar adhesive information into highly contrasting subsequent events. Thus, we have established that "inside-out" and "outside-in" integrin signaling pathways are regulated by fundamentally distinct mechanisms. In addition, we suggest that the same properties of the beta 1 cytoplasmic domain that promote recruitment to visible focal adhesion-like structures may also be conductive to cell proliferation. Conversely, the properties of the beta 5 tail that make it less likely to localize into focal adhesion-like structures may contribute to enhanced cell migration.

Stem cell factor regulates human melanocyte-matrix interactions

Stem cell factor (SCF) is hypothesized to play a critical role in the migration of melanocytes during embryogenesis because mutations in either the SCF gene, or its ligand, c-kit, result in defects in coat pigmentation in mice and in skin pigmentation in humans. In this report we directly show that SCF alters the adhesion and migration of human melanocytes to extracellular matrix (ECM) ligands and regulates integrin expression at the protein level. SCF decreased adhesion of neonatal and fetal cells to collagen IV, and increased attachment of fetal cells to laminin. Attachment of fetal cells to fibronectin was decreased, but was unchanged in neonatal cells. Flow cytometry analysis of neonatal melanocytes showed that SCF down-regulated the expression of the alpha 2 receptor, and up-regulated the expression of the alpha 3, alpha 5 and beta 1 integrin receptors. SCF down-regulated expression of alpha 2, alpha 5 and beta 1 integrins by fetal melanocytes, and up-regulated expression of the alpha v and alpha 3 integrin receptors. Analysis of melanocyte migration using time-lapse videomicroscopy showed that SCF significantly increased migration of neonatal, but not fetal, melanocytes on fibronectin (FN). We conclude that SCF regulates integrin expression at the protein level and that SCF has pleiotropic effects on melanocyte attachment and migration on ECM ligands. We suggest that this may be one mechanism by which SCF regulates melanocyte migration during development of the skin.