Volume expansion-sensing outward-rectifier Cl- channel: fresh start to the molecular identity and volume sensor

Water and ion channels: crucial in the initiation and progression of apoptosis in central nervous system?

Programmed cell death (PCD), is a highly regulated and sophisticated cellular mechanism that commits cell to isolated death fate. PCD has been implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous neurodegenerative disorders. Countless molecular events underlie this phenomenon, with each playing a crucial role in death commitment. A precedent event, apoptotic volume decrease (AVD), is ubiquitously observed in various forms of PCD induced by different cellular insults. Under physiological conditions, cells when subjected to osmotic fluctuations will undergo regulatory volume increase/decrease (RVI/RVD) to achieve homeostatic balance with neurons in the brain being additionally protected by the blood-brain-barrier. However, during AVD following apoptotic trigger, cell undergoes anistonic shrinkage that involves the loss of water and ions, particularly monovalent ions e.g. K(+), Na(+) and Cl(-). It is worthwhile to concentrate on the molecular implications underlying the loss of these cellular components which posed to be significant and crucial in the successful propagation of the apoptotic signals. Microarray and real-time PCR analyses demonstrated several ion and water channel genes are regulated upon the onset of lactacystin (a proteosomal inhibitor)-mediated apoptosis. A time course study revealed that gene expressions of water and ion channels are being modulated just prior to apoptosis, some of which are aquaporin 4 and 9, potassium channels and chloride channels. In this review, we shall looked into the molecular protein machineries involved in the execution of AVD in the central nervous system (CNS), and focus on the significance of movements of each cellular component in affecting PCD commitment, thus provide some pharmacological advantages in the global apoptotic cell death.

Swelling-activated chloride channels in leech Retzius neurons

During periods of high activity neurons are expected to swell due to the uptake of Cl(-). To find out whether leech Retzius neurons possess swelling-activated Cl(-) channels that facilitate Cl(-) efflux and, hence, volume recovery, we exposed the cells to hypotonic solutions. In hypotonic solutions, the cells slowly swelled but did not undergo a regulatory volume decrease. However, the cell volume increased less than predicted for an ideal osmometer, suggesting the action of a compensatory mechanism. The cell swelling was paralleled by a marked decrease in the input resistance as well as by the activation of a membrane current with a reversal potential close to the Cl(-) equilibrium potential. This current was substantially diminished by removing bath Cl(-), by applying the Cl(-) channel blocker DIDS, or by treating the cells with the tubulin polymerization inhibitor colchicine. Furthermore, in the presence of colchicine or vinblastine, the cell swelling was substantially increased. It is concluded that leech Retzius neurons possess swelling-activated Cl(-) channels that require an intact microtubule system for activation. The channels may help to restore cell volume after periods of high neuronal activity.

S100A4: a common mediator of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, fibrosis and regeneration in diseases?

Multiple reports have focused on S100A4's role in cancer progression, specifically its ability to enhance metastasis. However, recent studies have linked S100A4 to several diseases besides cancer, including kidney fibrosis, cirrhosis, pulmonary disease, cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, arthritis and neuronal injuries. Common to all these diseases is the involvement of fibrotic and inflammatory processes, i.e. processes greatly dependent on tissue remodelling, cell motility and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Therefore, the basic biological mechanisms behind S100A4's effects are emerging. S100A4 belongs to the S100 family of proteins that contain two Ca2+-binding sites including a canonical EF-hand motif. S100A4 is involved in the regulation of a wide range of biological effects including cell motility, survival, differentiation and contractility. S100A4 has both intracellular and extracellular effects. Hence, S100A4 interacts with cytoskeletal proteins and enhances metastasis of several types of cancer cells. In addition, S100A4 is secreted by unknown mechanisms, thus, paracrinely stimulating a variety of cellular responses, including angiogenesis and neuronal growth. Although many cellular effects of S100A4 are well described, the molecular mechanisms whereby S100A4 elicits these responses remain largely unknown. However, it is likely that the intracellular and the extracellular effects involve distinct mechanisms. In this review, we explore the possible roles of S100A4 in non-cancer diseases and employ this knowledge to describe underlying biological mechanisms including a change in cellular phenotype towards less tightly adherent cells and activation of fibrotic processes that may explain this protein's involvement in multiple pathologies.

Chloride channels as drug targets

Chloride channels represent a relatively under-explored target class for drug discovery as elucidation of their identity and physiological roles has lagged behind that of many other drug targets. Chloride channels are involved in a wide range of biological functions, including epithelial fluid secretion, cell-volume regulation, neuroexcitation, smooth-muscle contraction and acidification of intracellular organelles. Mutations in several chloride channels cause human diseases, including cystic fibrosis, macular degeneration, myotonia, kidney stones, renal salt wasting and hyperekplexia. Chloride-channel modulators have potential applications in the treatment of some of these disorders, as well as in secretory diarrhoeas, polycystic kidney disease, osteoporosis and hypertension. Modulators of GABA(A) (gamma-aminobutyric acid A) receptor chloride channels are in clinical use and several small-molecule chloride-channel modulators are in preclinical development and clinical trials. Here, we discuss the broad opportunities that remain in chloride-channel-based drug discovery.

DCPIB, a specific inhibitor of volume regulated anion channels (VRACs), reduces infarct size in MCAo and the release of glutamate in the ischemic cortical penumbra

Previous studies have indicated that volume regulated anion channels (VRACs) may be involved in the pathology of the ischemic brain cortical penumbra due to activation of VRAC-mediated excitatory amino-acid (EAA) release. To assess this we had studied neuroprotection and EAA release inhibition by a potent VRAC inhibitor, tamoxifen. However, tamoxifen inhibits several other neurodamaging processes. In the present study we use an ethacrynic acid derivative, 4-(2-butyl-6,7-dichloro-2-cyclopentyl-indan-1-on-5-yl) oxobutyric acid (DCPIB), that has recently been shown to be a specific antagonist of volume regulated anion channels (VRAC), to measure the extent of neuroprotection provided and thus to better assess the role of VRAC-mediated release of excitatory amino acids in an intraluminal suture, reversible middle cerebral artery occlusion (rMCAO) model in adult rats. Rats given DCPIB intracisternally had significantly better neurobehavioral scores after 24 h and showed significantly reduced infarct volumes. Mean infarct volumes were 208.0 (SD=38.3) mm3 for the vehicle groups, compared with 68.5 (SD=22.7) mm3 for intracisternally DCPIB-treated groups (p=0.02, Mann-Whitney test), a reduction of around 75%. However, a 500-fold higher dose of DCPIB given intravenously did not reduce infarct volume or improve behavior. The microdialysis study demonstrated statistically significant reduced brain extracellular fluid glutamate when DCPIB was present in the probe. Thus DCPIB, a specific inhibitor of VRACs, given i.c., provides strong neuroprotection in brain ischemia, but it appears to not cross the blood brain barrier as it is not effective when given i.v. These experiments support the hypothesis that EAA released via VRACs contributes to later ischemic-induced damage.

Spatial distribution of maxi-anion channel on cardiomyocytes detected by smart-patch technique

Spatial distribution of maxi-anion channels in rat cardiomyocytes were studied by applying the recently developed patch clamp technique under scanning ion conductance microscopy, called the "smart-patch" technique. In primary-cultured neonatal cells, the channel was found to be unevenly distributed over the cell surface with significantly lower channel activity in cellular extensions compared with the other parts. Local ATP release, detected using a PC12 cell-based biosensor technique, also exhibited a similar pattern. The maxi-anion channel activity could not be detected in freshly isolated adult cardiomyocytes by the conventional patch-clamp with 2-MOmega pipettes. However, when fine-tipped 15-20 MOmega pipettes were targeted to only Z-line areas, we observed, for the first time, the maxi-anion events. Smart-patching different regions of the cell surface, we found that the channel activity was maximal at the openings of T-tubules and along Z-lines, but was significantly decreased in the scallop crest area. Thus, it is concluded that maxi-anion channels are concentrated at the openings of T-tubules and along Z-lines in adult cardiomyocytes. This study showed that the smart-patch technique provides a powerful method to detect a unitary event of channels that are localized at some specific site in the narrow region.

Expression of S100A4 by a variety of cell types present in the tumor microenvironment of human breast cancer

The S100A4 protein, which is involved in the metastasis process, is a member of the S100 superfamily of Ca-binding proteins. Members of this family are multifunctional signaling proteins with dual extra and intracellular functions involved in the regulation of diverse cellular processes. Several studies have established a correlation between S100A4 protein expression and worse prognosis for patients with various malignancies including breast cancer. In this article, we have used specific antibodies in combination with immunohistochemistry (IHC) to identify the cell types that express S100A4 in human breast cancer biopsies obtained from high-risk patients. IHC analysis of 68 tumor biopsies showed that the protein is expressed preferentially by various cell types present in the tumor microenvironment (macrophages, fibroblasts, activated lymphocytes), rather than by the tumor cells themselves. Moreover, we show that the protein is externalized by the stroma cells to the fluid that bathes the tumor microenvironment, where it is found in several forms that most likely correspond to charge variants. Using a specific ELISA test, we detected a significant higher concentration of S100A4 in the tumor interstitial fluid (TIF) as compared to their corresponding normal counterparts (NIF).

Disruption of ionic and cell volume homeostasis in cerebral ischemia: The perfect storm

The mechanisms of brain tissue damage in stroke are strongly linked to the phenomenon of excitotoxicity, which is defined as damage or death of neural cells due to excessive activation of receptors for the excitatory neurotransmitters glutamate and aspartate. Under physiological conditions, ionotropic glutamate receptors mediate the processes of excitatory neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity. In ischemia, sustained pathological release of glutamate from neurons and glial cells causes prolonged activation of these receptors, resulting in massive depolarization and cytoplasmic Ca(2+) overload. High cytoplasmic levels of Ca(2+) activate many degradative processes that, depending on the metabolic status, cause immediate or delayed death of neural cells. This traditional view has been expanded by a number of observations that implicate Cl(-) channels and several types of non-channel transporter proteins, such as the Na(+),K(+),2Cl(-) cotransporter, Na(+)/H(+) exchanger, and Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger, in the development of glutamate toxicity. Some of these ion transporters increase tissue damage by promoting pathological cell swelling and necrotic cell death, while others contribute to a long-term accumulation of cytoplasmic Ca(2+). This brief review is aimed at illustrating how the dysregulation of various ion transport processes combine in a 'perfect storm' that disrupts neural ionic homeostasis and culminates in the irreversible damage and death of neural cells. The clinical relevance of individual transporters as targets for therapeutic intervention in stroke is also briefly discussed.

Hypomethylation-induced expression of S100A4 in endometrial carcinoma

Expression of various S100 genes has been associated with clinically aggressive subtypes in a variety of different cancers. We hypothesized that S100A4 would be overexpressed in endometrial carcinoma compared to benign endometrium. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to quantify the mRNA level of S100A4 in benign endometrium (n=19), endometrioid adenocarcinoma (n=87), and non-endometrioid tumors (n=21). Immunohistochemistry was used to verify the results of qRT-PCR and to assess protein localization. Possible mechanisms of S100A4 gene regulation were also examined. S100A4 was overexpressed in the grade 3 endometrioid tumors, uterine papillary serous carcinoma, and uterine malignant mixed müllerian tumor. Expression in grade 1 and grade 2 endometrioid tumors was comparable to that of normal endometrium, which was quite low. Expression was significantly higher in stage III and IV tumors compared with stage I. By immunohistochemistry, S100A4 was expressed in the tumor cell cytoplasm of poorly differentiated tumors, but was not detected in normal endometrial glandular epithelium. In benign endometrium, S100A4 expression was confined to stromal cells. S100A4 was not regulated by estrogen or progesterone, and its expression in tumors was not significantly correlated to estrogen receptor or progesterone receptor content. However, methylation of the S100A4 gene was detected in benign endometrium and grade 1 tumors with low S100A4 expression. In contrast, grade 3 endometrioid tumors with high S100A4 mRNA and protein expression showed no methylation of the gene. These methylation results were verified in endometrial cancer cell lines with differential baseline levels of S100A4 protein. These results suggest that hypomethylation is an important mechanism of regulating the expression of the S100A4 gene. These results support the emerging concept that hypomethylation may play a role in the upregulation of genes during later stages of tumorigenesis.

Bicarbonate-dependent pH(i) regulation by chondrocytes within the superficial zone of bovine articular cartilage

Control of chondrocyte pH (pH(i)) determines articular cartilage matrix metabolism. However, the transporters of chondrocytes in situ throughout cartilage zones are unclear, and we tested the hypothesis that chondocytes within the superficial zone (SZ) utilise a HCO(3) (-)-dependent system absent from other zones. Imaging of single BCECF-labelled cells was used to monitor the pH(i) of in situ chondrocytes within the cartilage zones, and also that of cells isolated from the SZ or full depth (FD) explants. Resting pH(i) and intrinsic buffering power (beta(i)) in HEPES-buffered saline was not different between SZ and DZ cells, however the pH(i) of SZ chondrocytes was lower in HCO(3) (-) saline. Ammonium pre-pulse was used to acid-load cells and pH(i) recovery by in situ or isolated SZ chondrocytes shown to be totally dependent on HCO(3) (-). pH(i) recovery rate was significantly (P < 0.05) greater for in situ cells, suggesting that isolation damaged the HCO(3) (-)-dependent system. Recovery of pH(i) by in situ cells was blocked by the anion transport inhibitor DIDS, and partially inhibited by EIPA probably non-specifically. Recovery of pH(i) by acidified MZ or DZ cells or those isolated from FD explants was not affected by HCO(3) (-) (P > 0.05). Na(+)-dependent HCO(3) (-)-(NBC) transporters were identified in SZ chondrocytes by fluorescence immunohistochemistry suggesting that this system might account for the HCO(3) (-)-dependent recovery of pH(i). Bovine articular cartilage chondrocytes possess a HCO(3) (-)-dependent transporter which plays a key role in pH(i) regulation in cells in the SZ, but not in chondrocytes within deeper cartilage zones.

Ion channel diversity, channel expression and function in the choroid plexuses

Knowledge of the diversity of ion channel form and function has increased enormously over the last 25 years. The initial impetus in channel discovery came with the introduction of the patch clamp method in 1981. Functional data from patch clamp experiments have subsequently been augmented by molecular studies which have determined channel structures. Thus the introduction of patch clamp methods to study ion channel expression in the choroid plexus represents an important step forward in our knowledge understanding of the process of CSF secretion.

Two K⁺ conductances have been identified in the choroid plexus: Kv1 channel subunits mediate outward currents at depolarising potentials; Kir 7.1 carries an inward-rectifying conductance at hyperpolarising potentials. Both K⁺ channels are localised at the apical membrane where they may contribute to maintenance of the membrane potential while allowing the recycling of K⁺ pumped in by Na⁺-K⁺ ATPase. Two anion conductances have been identified in choroid plexus. Both have significant HCO₃^- permeability, and may play a role in CSF secretion. One conductance exhibits inward-rectification and is regulated by cyclic AMP. The other is carried by an outward-rectifying channel, which is activated by increases in cell volume. The molecular identity of the anion channels is not known, nor is it clear whether they are expressed in the apical or basolateral membrane. Recent molecular evidence indicates that choroid plexus also expresses the non-selective cation channels such as transient receptor potential channels (TRPV4 and TRPM3) and purinoceptor type 2 (P2X) receptor operated channels. In conclusion, good progress has been made in identifying the channels expressed in the choroid plexus, but determining the precise roles of these channels in CSF secretion remains a challenge for the future.

Mechanosensor Channels in Mammalian Somatosensory Neurons

Mechanoreceptive sensory neurons innervating the skin, skeletal muscles and viscera signal both innocuous and noxious information necessary for proprioception, touch and pain. These neurons are responsible for the transduction of mechanical stimuli into action potentials that propagate to the central nervous system. The ability of these cells to detect mechanical stimuli impinging on them relies on the presence of mechanosensitive channels that transduce the external mechanical forces into electrical and chemical signals. Although a great deal of information regarding the molecular and biophysical properties of mechanosensitive channels in prokaryotes has been accumulated over the past two decades, less is known about the mechanosensitive channels necessary for proprioception and the senses of touch and pain. This review summarizes the most pertinent data on mechanosensitive channels of mammalian somatosensory neurons, focusing on their properties, pharmacology and putative identity.

Regulatory volume decrease after swelling induced by urea in fibroblasts: prominent role of organic osmolytes

Cell swelling, regulatory volume decrease (RVD), volume-sensitive Cl(-) (Cl(-) (swell)) current and taurine efflux after exposure to high concentrations of urea were characterized in fibroblasts Swiss 3T3, and results compared to those elicited by hyposmotic (30%) swelling. Urea 70, 100, and 150 mM linearly increased cell volume (8.25%, 10.6%, and 15.7%), by a phloretin-inhibitable process. This was followed by RVD by which cells exposed to 70, 100, or 150 mM urea recovered 27.6%, 38.95, and 74.1% of their original volume, respectively. Hyposmolarity (30%) led to a volume increase of 25.9% and recovered volume in 32.5%. (3)H-taurine efflux was increased by urea with a sigmoid pattern, as 9.5%, 18.9%, 71.5%, and 89% of the labeled taurine pool was released by 70, 100, 150, or 200 mM urea, respectively. Only about 11% of taurine was released by 30% hyposmolarity reduction in spite of the high increase in cell volume. Urea-induced taurine efflux was suppressed by NPPB (100 microM) and markedly reduced by the tyrosine kinase-general blocker AG18. The Cl(-) (swell) current was more rapidly activated and higher in amplitude in the hyposmotic than in the isosmotic/urea condition (urea 150 mM), but this was not sufficient to accomplish an efficient RVD. These results showed that at similar volume increase, cells swollen by urea showed higher taurine efflux, lower Cl(-) (swell) current and more efficient RVD, than in those swollen by hyposmolarity. The correlation found between RVD efficiency and taurine efflux suggest a prominent role for organic over ionic osmolytes for RVD evoked by urea in isosmotic conditions.

Polymorphisms in the 3' UTR in the neurocalcin delta gene affect mRNA stability, and confer susceptibility to diabetic nephropathy

Using a large-scale genotyping analysis of gene-based single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in Japanese type 2 diabetic patients, we have identified a gene encoding neurocalcin delta (NCALD) as a candidate for a susceptibility gene to diabetic nephropathy; the landmark SNP was found in the 3' UTR of NCALD (rs1131863: exon 4 +1340 A vs. G, P = 0.00004, odds ratio = 1.59, 95% CI 1.27-1.98). We also discovered two other SNPs in exon 4 of this gene (+999 T/A, +1307 A/G) that showed absolute linkage disequilibrium to the landmark SNP. Subsequent in vitro functional analysis revealed that synthetic mRNA corresponding to the disease susceptible haplotype (exon 4 +1340 G, +1307 G, +999 A) was degraded faster than mRNA corresponding to the major haplotype (exon 4 +1340 A, +1307 A, +999 T), and allelic mRNA expression of the disease susceptibility allele was significantly lower than that of the major allele in normal kidney tissues. In an experiment using a short interfering RNA targeting NCALD, we found that silencing of the NCALD led to a considerable enhancement of cell migration, accompanied by a significant reduction in E-cadherin expression, and by an elevation of alpha smooth muscle actin expression in cultured renal proximal tubular epithelial cells. We also identified the association of the landmark SNP with the progression of diabetic nephropathy in a 8-year prospective study (A vs. G, P = 0.03, odds ratio = 1.91, 95% CI 1.07-3.42). These results suggest that the NCALD gene is a likely candidate for conferring susceptibility to diabetic nephropathy.

The role of tubular epithelial-mesenchymal transition in progressive kidney disease

The accumulation of interstitial matrix represents the final common pathway of most forms of kidney disease. Much of this matrix is synthesized by interstitial myofibroblasts, recruited from resident fibroblasts and circulating precursors. In addition, a significant proportion is derived from epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of tubuloepithelial cells. The importance of EMT has been demonstrated in experimental models, where blockade of EMT attenuates renal fibrosis. Although a number of factors may initiate EMT in the kidney, the most potent is transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1). Moreover, many other prosclerotic factors have effects on EMT indirectly, via induction of TGF-beta1. Signaling events in this pathway include activation of Smad/integrin-linked kinase (ILK) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). Basement membrane integrity is also a key regulator of EMT. In particular, overexpression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 has a key role in the initiation of EMT, membrane dissolution, and the interstitial transit of transformed mesenchymal cells. Endogenous inhibitors of EMT also play an important counterregulatory role both to prevent EMT and stimulate uncommitted cells to regain their tubular phenotype (mesenchymal-epithelial transition). Such inhibitors represent a potential therapeutic approach, offering a mechanism to slow or even redress established renal fibrosis.

Anion channel blockers attenuate delayed neuronal cell death induced by transient forebrain ischemia

Chloride efflux is known to be involved in the progression of apoptosis in various cell types. We have recently shown that the volume-sensitive outwardly rectifying (VSOR) anion channel serves as the pathway for apoptotic chloride efflux in some cells. In the present study, we tested the neuroprotective effects of drugs that can block the VSOR anion channel, on delayed neuronal death (DND) induced by transient forebrain ischemia. The functional expression of the VSOR anion channel was first examined in hippocampal neurons in both primary culture and hippocampal slice preparations, by the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. We then tested the channel's sensitivity to an anion channel blocker, 4,4'-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid (DIDS), and a tyrosine kinase blocker, genistein. By histological examinations and cytochrome c release assessments, the protective effects of these drugs on the DND of hippocampal CA1 neurons in mice subjected to transient ischemia were examined. Drugs were administered via the jugular vein prior to ischemic treatment and into the peritoneal cavity after reperfusion. Hippocampal neurons were found to express the volume-sensitive Cl(-) channel, which exhibits outward rectification and is sensitive to DIDS and genistein. Administration of DIDS or genistein reduced cytochrome c release and the number of damaged neurons in the CA1 region after transient forebrain ischemia. This fact suggests that the DND induction mechanism involves the activity of the VSOR anion channel and that this channel may provide a therapeutic target for the treatment of stroke.

Inhibition of ERK and JNK Decreases Both Osmosensitive Taurine Release and Cell Proliferation in Glioma Cells

Cell swelling is associated with the activation of an increase in the osmosensitive taurine release (OTR) rate, which serves to decrease cell volume as part of a process known as regulatory volume decrease. OTR, which is sensitive to many pharmacological agents including anion channel blockers and signalling pathway modulators, has also been suggested to play a role in cell cycle progression. At non-cytotoxic concentrations, the anion channel blocker NPPB (25 microM), the extra-cellular signal-regulated kinase inhibitor PD98059 (50 microM), and the c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase inhibitor SP 600125 (5 microM) each decreased the OTR rate by > or =50%, decreased cell proliferation, and increased G0/G1 cell cycle arrest.

Therapeutic potential of TGF-beta inhibition in chronic renal failure

Chronic kidney diseases are emerging as a worldwide public health problem. The progression of kidney diseases closely correlates with the accumulation of extracellular matrix leading to glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial injury. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta has been identified as a key mediator of kidney matrix accumulation. Overexpression of TGF-beta isoforms and their receptors was observed in a variety of renal diseases in both animals and humans. Given its crucial role in fibrotic kidney disease, TGF-beta has been recently considered as a possible target in the management of chronic renal diseases. This review discusses the role of TGF-beta in renal fibrosis and provides an overview of the strategies that, when interfering with TGF-beta expression and signalling, could be employed as new renoprotective treatments.

Membrane permeabilization and cell damage by ultrashort electric field shocks

Mammalian cells exposed to electric field pulses of nanosecond duration (nsPEF; 60-ns, 12 kV/cm) experienced a profound and long-lasting increase in passive electrical conductance (G(m)) of the cell membrane, probably caused by opening of stable conductance pores (CPs). The CPs were permeable to Cl(-) and alkali metal cations, but not to larger molecules such as propidium iodide (PI). CPs gradually resealed; the process took minutes and could be observed even in dialyzed cells and in ATP- and glucose-free solutions. Cells subjected to long nsPEF trains (up to 200 pulses) underwent severe and immediate necrotic transformation (cell swelling, blebbing, cytoplasm granulation), but remained impermeable to PI for at least 30-60 min after the exposure. Both G(m) increase after short nsPEF trains and necrotic changes after long nsPEF trains were cell type-dependent: they were much weaker in HeLa than in GH3 cells. La(3+) and Gd(3+) ions significantly inhibited the nsPEF-induced G(m) increase (probably by blocking the CPs), and effectively protected intensely exposed cells from developing necrosis. We conclude that plasma membrane permeabilization is the principal cause of necrotic transformation in nsPEF-exposed cells and probably contributes to other known nsPEF bioeffects.

Transcriptional regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition

It has become increasingly obvious that the notion of a terminally differentiated cell is likely a simplified concept. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), during which epithelial cells assume a mesenchymal phenotype, is a key event occurring during normal development and pathological processes. Multiple extracellular stimuli and transcriptional regulators can trigger EMT, but how such distinct signaling pathways orchestrate the complex cellular events that facilitate EMT is not well understood. In this issue of the JCI, Venkov et al. report on their examination of fibroblasts resulting from EMT and describe a novel protein-DNA complex that is essential for transcription of fibroblast-specific protein 1 (FSP1) and sufficient to induce early EMT events (see the related article beginning on page 482). Collectively, their results suggest that this complex is an important regulator of the EMT transcriptome.

Roles of volume-activated Cl- currents and regulatory volume decrease in the cell cycle and proliferation in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells

OBJECTIVES

Previously it has been shown, that the volume-activated plasma membrane chloride channel is associated with regulatory volume decrease (RVD) of cells and may play an important role in control of cell proliferation. We have demonstrated that both expression of the channel and RVD capacity are actively regulated in the cell cycle. In this study, we aimed to further study the role of the volume-activated chloride current and RVD in cell cycle progression and overall in cell proliferation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Whole-cell currents, RVD, cell cycle distribution, cell proliferation and cell viability were measured or detected with the patch-clamp technique, the cell image analysis technique, flow cytometry, the MTT assay and the trypan blue assay respectively, in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells (CNE-2Z cells).

RESULTS

The Cl- channel blockers, 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino) benzoic acid (NPPB) and tamoxifen, inhibit the volume-activated chloride current, RVD and proliferation of CNE-2Z cells in a dose-dependent manner. Analysis of relationships between the current, RVD and cell proliferation showed that both the current and RVD were positively correlated with cell proliferation. NPPB (100 microM) and tamoxifen (20 microM) did not significantly induce cell death, but inhibited cell proliferation, implying that the blockers may inhibit cell proliferation by affecting cell cycle progression. This was verified by the observation that tamoxifen (20 microM) and NPPB (100 microM) inhibited cell cycle progress and arrested cells at the G0/G1 phase boundary.

CONCLUSIONS

Activity of the volume-activated chloride channel is one of the important factors that regulate the passage of cells through the G1 restriction point and that the Cl- current associated with RVD plays an important role in cell proliferation.

Roles of volume-sensitive chloride channel in excitotoxic neuronal injury

Excitotoxicity is associated with stroke, brain trauma, and a number of neurodegenerative disorders. In the brain, during excitotoxic insults, neurons undergo rapid swelling in both the soma and dendrites. Focal swellings along the dendrites called varicosities are considered to be a hallmark of acute excitotoxic neuronal injury. However, it is not clear what pathway is involved in the neuronal anion flux that leads to the formation and resolution of excitotoxic varicosities. Here, we assessed the roles of the volume-sensitive outwardly rectifying (VSOR) Cl- channel in excitotoxic responses in mouse cortical neurons. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings revealed that the VSOR Cl- channel in cultured neurons was activated by NMDA exposure. Moreover, robust expression of this channel on varicosities was confirmed by on-cell and nystatin-perforated vesicle patch techniques. VSOR channel blockers, but not blockers of GABA(A) receptors and Cl- transporters, abolished not only varicosity resolution after sublethal excitotoxic stimulation but also necrotic death after sustained varicosity formation induced by prolonged NMDA exposure in cortical neurons. The present slice-patch experiments demonstrated, for the first time, expression of the VSOR Cl- channels in somatosensory pyramidal neurons. NMDA-induced necrotic neuronal death in slice preparations was largely suppressed by a blocker of the VSOR Cl- channel but not of the GABA(A) receptor. These results indicate that VSOR Cl- channels exert dual, reciprocal actions on neuronal excitotoxicity by serving as major anionic pathways both for varicosity recovery after washout of an excitotoxic stimulant and for persistent varicosity formation under prolonged excitotoxic insults leading to necrosis in cortical neurons.

Twist relates to tubular epithelial-mesenchymal transition and interstitial fibrogenesis in the obstructed kidney

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a critical step in renal fibrosis. It has been recently reported that a transcription factor, Twist, plays a pivotal role in metastasis of breast tumors by inducing EMT. In this study, we examined whether Twist relates to renal fibrogenesis including EMT of tubular epithelia, evaluating Twist expression level in the unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) model. Kidneys of mice subjected to UUO were harvested 1, 3, 7, and 10 days after obstruction. Compared with control kidneys, Twist mRNA-level significantly increased 3 days after UUO (UUO day 3 kidney) and further augmented until 10 days after UUO. Twist expression increased in tubular epithelia of the dilated tubules and the expanded interstitial areas of UUO kidneys, where cell-proliferating appearances were frequently found in a time-dependent manner. Although a part of tubular cells in whole nephron segment were immunopositive for Twist in UUO day 7 kidneys, tubular epithelia downstream of nephron more frequently expressed Twist than upstream of nephron. In UUO day 7 kidneys, some tubular epithelia were confirmed to coexpress Twist and fibroblast-specific protein-1, a marker for EMT, indicating that Twist is involved in tubular EMT under pathological state. Twist was expressed also in a number of alpha-smooth muscle actin-positive myofibroblasts located in the expanded interstitial area of UUO kidneys. From these findings, the present investigation suggests that Twist is associated with tubular EMT, proliferation of myofibroblasts, and subsequent renal fibrosis in obstructed kidneys.

Cell shrinkage and monovalent cation fluxes: role in apoptosis

The loss of cell volume or cell shrinkage has been a morphological hallmark of the programmed cell death process known as apoptosis. This isotonic loss of cell volume has recently been term apoptotic volume decrease or AVD to distinguish it from inherent volume regulatory responses that occurs in cells under anisotonic conditions. Recent studies examining the intracellular signaling pathways that result in this unique cellular characteristic have determined that a fundamental movement of ions, particularly monovalent ions, underlie the AVD process and plays an important role on controlling the cell death process. An efflux of intracellular potassium was shown to be a critical aspect of the AVD process, as preventing this ion loss could protect cells from apoptosis. However, potassium plays a complex role as a loss of intracellular potassium has also been shown to be beneficial to the health of the cell. Additionally, the mechanisms that a cell employs to achieve this loss of intracellular potassium vary depending on the cell type and stimulus used to induce apoptosis, suggesting multiple ways exist to accomplish the same goal of AVD. Additionally, sodium and chloride have been shown to play a vital role during cell death in both the signaling and control of AVD in various apoptotic model systems. This review examines the relationship between this morphological change and intracellular monovalent ions during apoptosis.

Distinctive gene expression of prostatic stromal cells cultured from diseased versus normal tissues

To obtain a comprehensive view of the transcriptional programs in prostatic stromal cells of different histological/pathological origin, we profiled 18 adult human stromal cell cultures from normal transition zone (TZ), normal peripheral zone (PZ), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and prostate cancer (CA) using cDNA microarrays. A hierarchical clustering analysis of 714 named unique genes whose expression varied at least threefold from the overall mean abundance in at least three samples in all 18 samples demonstrated that cells of different origin displayed distinct gene expression profiles. Many of the differentially expressed genes are involved in biological processes known to be important in the development of prostatic diseases including cell proliferation and apoptosis, cell adhesion, and immune response. Significance Analysis of Microarrays (SAM) analysis identified genes that showed differential expression with statistical significance including 24 genes between cells from TZ versus BPH, 34 between BPH versus CA, and 101 between PZ versus CA. S100A4 and SULF1, the most up- and downregulated genes in BPH versus TZ, respectively, showed expression at the protein level consistent with microarray analysis. In addition, sulfatase assay showed that BPH cells have lower SULF1 activity compared to TZ cells. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis confirmed differential expression of ENPP2/autotoxin and six other genes between PZ versus CA, as well as differential expression of six genes between BPH versus CA. Our results support the hypothesis that prostatic stromal cells of different origin have unique transcriptional programs and point towards genes involved in actions of stromal cells in BPH and CA.

A proximal activator of transcription in epithelial-mesenchymal transition

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important mechanism for phenotypic conversion in normal development and disease states such as tissue fibrosis and metastasis. While this conversion of epithelia is under tight transcriptional control, few of the key transcriptional proteins are known. Fibroblasts produced by EMT express a gene encoding fibroblast-specific protein 1 (FSP1), which is regulated by a proximal cis-acting promoter element called fibroblast transcription site-1 (FTS-1). In mass spectrometry, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and siRNA studies, we used FTS-1 as a unique probe for mediators of EMT and identified a complex of 2 proteins, CArG box-binding factor-A (CBF-A) and KRAB-associated protein 1 (KAP-1), that bind this site. Epithelial cells engineered to conditionally express recombinant CBF-A (rCBF-A) activate the transcription of FSP1 and undergo EMT. The FTS-1 response element also exists in the promoters modulating a broader EMT transcriptome, including Twist, and Snail, as well as E-cadherin, beta-catenin, ZO 1, vimentin, alpha1(I) collagen, and alpha-smooth muscle actin, and the induction of rCBF-A appropriately alters their expression as well. We believe formation of the CBF-A/KAP-1/FTS-1 complex is sufficient for the induction of FSP1 and a novel proximal activator of EMT.

Impaired activity of volume-sensitive Cl− channel is involved in cisplatin resistance of cancer cells

The platinum-based drug cisplatin is a widely used anticancer drug which acts by causing the induction of apoptosis. However, resistance to the drug is a major problem. In this study we show that the KCP-4 human epidermoid cancer cell line, which serves as a model of acquired resistance to cisplatin, has virtually no volume-sensitive, outwardly rectifying (VSOR) chloride channel activity. The VSOR chloride channel's molecular identity has not yet been determined, and semi-quantitative RT-PCR experiments in this study suggested that the channel corresponds to none of three candidate genes. However, because it is known that the channel current plays an essential role in apoptosis, we hypothesized that lack of the current contributes to cisplatin resistance in these cells and that its restoration would reduce resistance. To test this hypothesis, we attempted to restore VSOR chloride current in KCP-4 cells. It was found that treatment with trichostatin A (TSA), a histone deacetylase inhibitor, caused VSOR chloride channel function to be partially restored. Treatment of the cells with both TSA and cisplatin resulted in an increase in caspase-3 activity at 24 h and a decrease in cell viability at 48 h. These effects were blocked by simultaneous treatment of the cells with a VSOR chloride channel blocker. These results indicate that restoration of the channel's functional expression by TSA treatment leads to a decrease in the cisplatin resistance of KCP-4 cells. We thus conclude that impaired activity of the VSOR chloride channel is involved in the cisplatin resistance of KCP-4 cancer cells.

Characterization of a novel voltage-dependent outwardly rectifying anion current inCaenorhabditis elegansoocytes

An inwardly rectifying swelling- and meiotic cell cycle-regulated anion current carried by the ClC channel splice variant CLH-3b dominates the whole cell conductance of the Caenorhabditis elegans oocyte. Oocytes also express a novel outwardly rectifying anion current termed ICl,OR. We recently identified a worm strain carrying a null allele of the clh-3 gene and utilized oocytes from these animals to characterize ICl,ORbiophysical properties. The ICl,ORchannel is strongly voltage dependent. Outward rectification is due to voltage-dependent current activation at depolarized voltages and rapid inactivation at voltages more hyperpolarized than approximately +20 mV. Apparent channel open probability is zero at voltages less than +20 mV. The channel has a 4:1 selectivity for Cl−over Na+and an anion selectivity sequence of SCN−> I−> Br−> Cl−> F−. ICl,ORis relatively insensitive to most conventional anion channel inhibitors including DIDS, 4,4′-dinitrostilbene-2,2′-disulfonic acid, 9-anthracenecarboxylic acid, and 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino)benzoic acid. However, the current is rapidly inhibited by niflumic acid, metal cations including Gd3+, Cd2+, and Zn2+, and bath acidification. The combined biophysical properties of ICl,ORare distinct from those of other anion currents that have been described. During oocyte meiotic maturation, ICl,ORactivity is rapidly downregulated, suggesting that the channel may play a role in oocyte Cl−homeostasis, development, cell cycle control, and/or ovulation.

Actin cytoskeleton architecture and signaling in osmosensing

Since the early days of cell volume regulation research, the role of actin cytoskeleton organization and rearrangement has attracted specific interest. Rapid modifications in actin dynamics and architecture have been described. They were shown to regulate cell volume changes, as well as regulatory volume decrease in a large variety of cell types, including hepatocytes, lymphocytes, fibroblasts, myocytes, and various tumor cells. Using microscopic and biochemical analyses, modifications of actin organization and polymerization dynamics were studied. This chapter summarizes the molecular approaches applied so far for the quantitative assessment of actin cytoskeleton dynamics in the various cell types. It demonstrates that rapid modifications of actin cytoskeleton dynamics regulated by specific signaling pathways play a functional role in cell volume regulation. It is concluded that studying actin polymerization dynamics and signaling represents a challenging tool for the understanding of osmosensing and osmosignaling regulation in cellular physiology.

Osmosignaling and volume regulation in intestinal epithelial cells

Most cells have to perform their physiological functions under a variable osmotic stress, which, because of the relatively high permeability of the plasma membrane for water, may result in frequent alterations in cell size. Intestinal epithelial cells are especially prone to changes in cell volume because of their high capacity of salt and water transport and the high membrane expression of various nutrient transporters. Therefore, to avoid excessive shrinkage or swelling, enterocytes, like most cell types, have developed efficient mechanisms to maintain osmotic balance. This chapter reviews selected model systems that can be used to investigate cell volume regulation in intestinal epithelial cells, with emphasis on the regulatory volume decrease, and the methods available to study the compensatory redistribution of (organic) osmolytes. In addition, a brief summary is presented of the pathways involved in osmosensing and osmosignaling in the intestine.

Role of acid-sensitive outwardly rectifying anion channels in acidosis-induced cell death in human epithelial cells

Recently, a novel type of anion channel activated by extracellular acidification has been found in a variety of mammalian cell types. However, the role of this acid-sensitive outwardly rectifying (ASOR) anion channel is not known. In human epithelial HeLa cells, reduction in extracellular pH below 5 rapidly activated anion-selective whole-cell currents. The currents exhibited strong outward rectification, activation kinetics at positive potentials, low-field anion selectivity, and sensitivity to 4,4'-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid (DIDS) and phloretin. When outside-out patches were exposed to acidic bathing solution, single-channel events of the anion channel could be observed. The unitary conductance was 4.8 pS in the voltage range between -80 and +80 mV. The single-channel activity prominently increased with depolarization and was suppressed by DIDS or phloretin. After 1-h incubation in acidic solution (pH 4.5), a significant population of HeLa cells suffered from necrotic cell injury characterized by stainability with propidium iodide and lack of caspase-3 activation. Upon exposure to acidic solution, HeLa cells exhibited immediate, persistent swelling. Both the necrotic volume increase and cell injury induced by extracellular acidification were inhibited by DIDS or phloretin. Therefore, it is concluded that the ASOR anion channel is involved in the genesis of necrotic cell injury induced by acidosis in human epithelial cells.

Effects of high-K+, Na+-deficient solution on contractility of the smooth muscles of the bovine trachea

A high-K+, Na+-deficient (I-154 K+) solution induced contraction followed by gradual relaxation of the smooth muscles of the bovine trachea, while hyperosmotic addition of 65 mM KCl induced a large sustained contraction. Exposure of the muscle to the I-154 K+ solution induced an increase in the ratio of cellular water content and a sustained increase in oxidized flavoprotein fluorescence or reduced pyridine nucleotide fluorescence. The I-154 K+ solution also induced a sustained increase in [Ca2+]i level. Decreases in developed tension and increases in cellular water content were both prevented by the addition of sucrose or NaCl but not pyruvate. Substitution of KI for KCl in the I-154 K+ solution produced a greater inhibition of contraction, while substitution with K-propionate produced no inhibition of contraction. Moreover, decreases in developed tension and increases in cellular water content were both prevented by addition of 100 microM 4,4'-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2'-disulphonic acid (DIDS), but not 10 microM bumetanide or 1 mM acetazolamide. In conclusion, I-154 K+ solution induced-relaxation in the bovine trachea may be due to swelling of smooth muscle cells and the mechanism of swelling is probably involved in DIDS-sensitive anion movement.

Anion channels in astrocytes: biophysics, pharmacology, and function

The chloride/anion channels that have been so far identified in cultured astrocytes and those that have been confirmed in situ by a combination of mRNA identification, immunocytochemistry, and biophysical studies are reviewed. It is emphasized that we are just beginning to describe such channels and analyze their functions in astrocytes. The best-studied anion channels studied so far are those known as volume-regulated anion channels (VRACs). These, as for most channels, have been mainly studied in cultured astrocytes, but some correlative studies have been done in situ, because these channels have been emphasized as release routes for transmitters; namely, excitatory amino acids and ATP. They are activated by cell shape changes and cell swelling, and the release of amino acids and ATP and chloride currents, measured by whole cell clamping, by these processes has been well described, as is also their activation by low concentrations of extracellular ATP. However, the identity of these channels in astrocytes, as in all other cells, remains elusive. The potential involvement of VRACs in pathological states such as stroke, metastasis, and spreading depression is also discussed.

Mechanisms of disease: Fibroblasts--a new look at an old problem

Fibroblasts are one of the most important and episodically active cell types in the kidney. Under normal conditions, these cells provide a delicate collagenous matrix that partitions the interstitial spaces between nephrons, blood vessels and the renal capsule. Fibroblasts also remodel the interstitium as kidneys grow with age. This episodic activity of various fibroblast populations has a biological basis. Most fibroblasts are created locally through a process called epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and, once formed, they can proliferate in response to local mitogens. EMT is driven by an alteration in the balance of local cytokine concentrations that reverses the differentiation of selected epithelia along tubular nephrons. During persistent injury and inflammation, fibroblasts further increase their numbers and secrete excess interstitial collagens, and EMT is particularly aggressive in this setting. The mechanisms by which fibroblasts simultaneously destroy normal interstitial architecture and disable epithelial nephrons are more comprehensible today. Recent therapeutic clues for attenuating fibroblast formation during renal fibrogenesis also suggest an advantage in shifting local cytokine balance to favor mesenchymal-epithelial transition. This review examines these issues and identifies new targets for the treatment of one of the most difficult problems facing clinical nephrology.

Control of Brain Volume during Hypoosmolality and Hyperosmolality

Multiple studies over several decades have provided evidence that both electrolytes and organic osmolytes play crucial roles in regulating brain volume, both during increases as well as during decreases in extracellular fluid osmolality. In both situations, rapidly, and however, changes in brain electrolyte contents appear to occur more represent the first line of defense of brain volume during acute perturbations of body fluid tonicity, while organic osmolytes allow adaptation to more chronic perturbations. For both hyperosmolality and hypoosmolality, the rate of development of the disorder is an important determinant of neurological morbidity and mortality, since sufficiently rapid changes in tonicity can exceed the brain's capacity to regulate its volume leading to more severe degrees of brain edema or dehydration. Recovery from both hyper- and hypoosmolality requires reversal of the adaptive processes that enabled regulation of brain volume in response to the initial insult. However, adaptation and recovery are not symmetrical processes. Marked differences occur in the speed with which the brain is able to lose or to reaccumulate different types of solutes after recovery from chronic disturbances of body fluid tonicity. In general, accumulation, or reaccumulation, of organic solutes by brain tissue is a much slower process than volume regulatory losses of such solutes. As with the adaptation process, the rate of recovery is an important determinant of subsequent morbidity and mortality, since rapid corrections of osmolality can also exceed the capacity of the brain to readjust its solute content, and consequently its volume, back to normal levels. Whether or not transient excesses or deficiencies of either electrolytes or specific organic osmolytes in brain intracellular or extracellular fluid contribute to functional disturbances independently of changes in brain volume is an intriguing question that has not been sufficiently evaluated. Also remaining to be answered are questions regarding other physiological, pathophysiological, and pharmacological factors that either impair or enhance volume regulatory processes, and thereby modify the neurological manifestations accompanying disorders of body fluid osmolality in humans. Finally, a complete understanding of the cellular mechanisms underlying adaptation to and deadaptation from acute and chronic perturbations of body osmolality will be essential to design the most enlightened, and therefore appropriate, treatments for these disorders.

Cholesterol modulates the volume-regulated anion current in Ehrlich-Lettre ascites cells via effects on Rho and F-actin

The mechanisms controlling the volume-regulated anion current (VRAC) are incompletely elucidated. Here, we investigate the modulation of VRAC by cellular cholesterol and the potential involvement of F-actin, Rho, Rho kinase, and phosphatidylinositol-(4,5)-bisphosphate [PtdIns(4,5)P2] in this process. In Ehrlich-Lettre ascites (ELA) cells, a current with biophysical and pharmacological properties characteristic of VRAC was activated by hypotonic swelling. A 44% increase in cellular cholesterol content had no detectable effects on F-actin organization or VRAC activity. A 47% reduction in cellular cholesterol content increased cortical and stress fiber-associated F-actin content in swollen cells. Cholesterol depletion increased VRAC activation rate and maximal current after a modest (15%), but not after a severe (36%) reduction in extracellular osmolarity. The cholesterol depletion-induced increase in maximal VRAC current was prevented by F-actin disruption using latrunculin B (LB), while the current activation rate was unaffected by LB, but dependent on Rho kinase. Rho activity was decreased by ∼20% in modestly, and ∼50% in severely swollen cells. In modestly swollen cells, this reduction was prevented by cholesterol depletion, which also increased isotonic Rho activity. Thrombin, which stimulates Rho and causes actin polymerization, potentiated VRAC in modestly swollen cells. VRAC activity was unaffected by inclusion of a water-soluble PtdIns(4,5)P2analogue or a PtdIns(4,5)P2-blocking antibody in the pipette, or neomycin treatment to sequester PtdIns(4,5)P2. It is suggested that in ELA cells, F-actin and Rho-Rho kinase modulate VRAC magnitude and activation rate, respectively, and that cholesterol depletion potentiates VRAC at least in part by preventing the hypotonicity-induced decrease in Rho activity and eliciting actin polymerization.

Correlations of tissue macrophages and cytoskeletal protein expression with renal fibrosis in patients with diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

In clinicopathological studies of cellular remodeling in the progression of diabetic nephropathy, it has not been well described whether tissue macrophage numbers and the expression of two cytoskeletal proteins--alpha-smooth muscle actin (alphaSMA) and vimentin--correlate with the disease severity.

METHODS

Renal biopsy specimens from 23 patients with noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) were examined by immunoperoxidase methods for CD68+ macrophages and alphaSMA and vimentin staining in paraffin-embedded samples. alphaSMA staining was evaluated in mesangial and interstitial myofibroblastic cells, and vimentin staining was evaluated in podocytes and mesangial and tubular cells.

RESULTS

Glomerular macrophage numbers were not correlated with any clinicopathological scores. However, the interstitial macrophage score was significantly correlated with serum creatinine (sCr) and strongly correlated with the interstitial fibrosis score. Both alphaSMA and vimentin were detectable in the mesangium, without significant correlation with each other. A positive correlation was observed between mesangial alphaSMA and urinary (u-) protein levels. In contrast, an inverse correlation was observed between levels of mesangial vimentin and u-protein. Mesangial alphaSMA, but not vimentin, showed a significant correlation with glomerular sclerosis. Podocytic vimentin levels tended to decrease in patients with higher sCr levels. The severity of interstitial peritubular alphaSMA was correlated strongly with interstitial macrophage proliferation and significantly with the interstitial fibrosis score.

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of mesangial alphaSMA may play a role in the progression of glomerular damage, while, on the other hand, newly acquired mesangial vimentin seems to be attenuated by heavy proteinuria. In addition, it was suggested that peritubular alphaSMA-positive myofibroblastic cells, in collaboration with interstitial macrophages, contribute to the progression of interstitial fibrosis in diabetic nephropathy.

The fibroblastic coconspirator in cancer progression

A remarkable change has occurred in the thinking about epithelial-derived cancer in recent years: From almost entirely focusing on oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes has come the realization that the tumor microenvironment is a coconspirator in the carcinogenic process. Many types of stromal cells, including fibroblasts, adipocytes, macrophages, mast cells, and cells of the vascular system, are crucial contributors to epithelial carcinogenesis. Here, we focus on the fibroblast's role in cancer progression and the molecules involved in the communications between the fibroblasts and the cancer cells, including fibroblast secreted protein 1 (FSP-1 or S100A4), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta), the chemokine CXCL-12 (stromal derived factor 1 alpha, SDF-1alpha), type I collagen, and matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP-13).

Pharmacological comparison of swelling-activated excitatory amino acid release and Cl- currents in cultured rat astrocytes

Ubiquitously expressed volume-regulated anion channels (VRACs) are chloride channels which are permeable to a variety of small organic anions, including the excitatory amino acids (EAAs) glutamate and aspartate. Broad spectrum anion channel blockers strongly reduce EAA release in cerebral ischaemia and other pathological states associated with prominent astrocytic swelling. However, it is uncertain whether VRAC serves as a major pathway for EAA release from swollen cells. In the present study, we measured swelling-activated release of EAAs as D-[3H]aspartate efflux, and VRAC-mediated Cl- currents by whole-cell patch clamp in cultured rat astrocytes. We compared the pharmacological profiles of the swelling-activated EAA release pathway and Cl- currents. The expression of candidate Cl- channels was confirmed by RT-PCR. The maxi Cl- channel (p-VDAC) blocker Gd3+, the ClC-2 inhibitor Cd2+, and the MDR-1 blocker verapamil did not affect EAA release or VRAC currents. An antagonist of calcium-sensitive Cl- channels (CaCC), niflumic acid, had little effect on EAA release and only partially inhibited swelling-activated Cl- currents. The phorbol ester PDBu, which blocks ClC-3-mediated Cl- currents, had no effect on VRAC currents and up-regulated EAA release. In contrast, DCPIB, which selectively inhibits VRACs, potently suppressed both EAA release and VRAC currents. Two other relatively selective VRAC inhibitors, tamoxifen and phloretin, also blocked the VRAC currents and strongly reduced EAA release. Taken together, our data suggest that (i) astrocytic volume-dependent EAA release is largely mediated by the VRAC, and (ii) the ClC-2, ClC-3, ClC-4, ClC-5, VDAC, CaCC, MDR-1 and CFTR gene products do not contribute to EAA permeability.

Influence of connective tissue growth factor antisense oligonucleotide on angiotensin II-induced epithelial mesenchymal transition in HK2 cells

AIM

The present study was designed to further investigate the effect of connective tissue growth factor antisense oligonucleotide (CTGF-AS) on angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced tubular cell epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vitro.

METHODS

The human proximal tubular cell line (HK2) was grown in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium containing 10% heat inactivated fetal calf serum. After being rested in serum-free medium for 24 h, the influence of CTGF-AS (20 mug/mL) on Ang II-induced (0.1 micromol/L) CTGF mRNA and the protein expression were examined by using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and indirect-immunofluorescence. The effect of CTGF-AS on Ang II-induced cellular ultrastructure was observed using a transmissive electronic microscope. The expression of alpha-smooth action (alpha-SMA) was assayed by immunocytochemistry. In all experiments, the control group was treated with scrambled oligonucleotide.

RESULTS

It was shown that Ang II significantly induced the increasing expression of CTGF mRNA and protein (P<0.01, respectively), which were significantly abolished by treatment with CTGF-AS. After stimulating cells with Ang II, the cellular ultrastructure showed mesenchymal features. These effects were partially inhibited by CTGF-AS. Ang II significantly resulted in the expression of alpha-SMA in time dependent manner, which was markedly attenuated by the treatment with CTGF-AS (P<0.01, respectively). In contrast, no similar effects were observed in the control group treated with scrambled oligonucleotide.

CONCLUSION

Ang II-induced EMT in human proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTC) can be attenuated by treatment with CTGF-AS. Our data provides further evidence that CTGF might be involved in Ang II-induced EMT in PTC.

Mechanisms of cell volume regulation in hypo-osmolality

Cells respond to a condition of hypo-osmolality by rapid swelling followed by an adaptive response that tends to recover the normal cell volume despite the persistence of the hypo-osmotic condition. This is an active process accomplished by the extrusion of intracellular osmolytes, essentially K+, Cl-, and small organic molecules. This regulatory process operates through a chain of events that essentially consists of a sensor or sensing mechanism to detect changes in cell volume, a signaling cascade to amplify the sensing signal and orient it to activate pathways for osmolyte extrusion, and a memory of the original cell volume, which sets the timing for inactivation of the volume-regulatory process. This article presents a brief overview of recent progress in these different aspects of the volume-regulatory process, including (1) the mechanisms and/or candidate molecules serving the role of volume sensors, (2) the osmosignaling network and the interplay and hierarchy of the different elements in this chain, and (3) the nature and properties of the osmolyte extrusion pathways. Emphasis is placed on some of the main unsolved questions concerning different aspects of the volume-regulatory process. Recent findings regarding the effect of hypo-osmolality on synaptic function are briefly discussed in terms of the possible molecular basis for the neurologic symptoms induced by hyponatremia.

Recapitulation of Embryological Programmes in Renal Fibrosis – The Importance of Epithelial Cell Plasticity and Developmental Genes

Chronic fibrosis represents the final common pathway in progressive renal disease. Myofibroblasts deposit the constituents of renal scar, thus crippling renal function. It has recently emerged that an important source of these pivotal effector cells is the injured renal epithelium. This review concentrates on the process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and its regulation. The role of the developmental gene, gremlin, which is reactivated in adult renal disease, is the subject of particular focus. This member of the cysteine knot protein superfamily is critical to the process of nephrogenesis but quiescent in normal adult kidney. There is increasing evidence that gremlin expression reactivates in diabetic nephropathy, and in the diseased fibrotic kidney per se. Known to antagonize members of the bone morphogenic protein (BMP) family, gremlin may also act downstream of TGF-beta in induction of EMT. An increased understanding of the extracellular modulation of EMT and, in particular, of the gremlin-BMP axis may result in strategies that can halt or reverse the devastating progression of chronic renal fibrosis.

The ICln interactome

The many different functional phenotypes described in mammalian cells can only be explained by an intense interaction of the underlying proteins, substantiated by the fact that the number of independently expressed proteins in living cells seems not to exceed 25 K, a number way too small to explain the >250 K different phenotypes on a one-protein-one-function base. Therefore, the study of the interactome of the different proteins is of utmost importance. Here, we describe the present knowledge of the ICln interactome. ICln is a protein, we cloned and whose function was reported to be as divers as (i) ion permeation, (ii) cytoskeletal organization, and (iii) RNA processing. The role of ICln in these different functional modules can be described best as being a 'connector hub' with 'date hub' function.

Evidence for the role of cell stiffness in modulation of volume-regulated anion channels

AIM

To investigate the link between cell stiffness and volume-regulated anion current (VRAC) in aortic endothelium.

METHOD

Bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAECs) were exposed to methyl-beta-cyclodextrin (MbetaCD) to deplete cellular cholesterol and the changes in cellular stiffness were measured by micropipette aspiration. VRAC density was measured electrophysiologically in the same cell populations. Furthermore, to probe the effects of cholesterol depletion on the mechanics of 'deep' cytoskeleton, we employ a novel technique to analyse correlated motion of intracellular particles.

RESULTS

We show that cholesterol depletion results in cellular stiffening and an upregulation of VRAC density. Replenishing cellular sterol pool with epicholesterol, a chiral analogue of cholesterol, abrogates both of these effects. This indicates that cholesterol sensitivity of both cell mechanics and VRAC are due to changes in the physical properties of the membrane rather than due to specific sterol-protein interactions. We also show that cholesterol depletion increases the stiffness of the 'deep cytoskeleton' and that disruption of actin filaments abolishes both cell stiffening and upregulation of VRAC due to cholesterol depletion. Furthermore, comparing BAECs to human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs), we show that BAECs that are inherently stiffer also develop larger VRACs.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, our observations suggest an increase in the cytoskeleton stiffness has a facilitatory effect on VRAC development. We suggest that stiffening of the cytoskeleton increases tension in the membrane-cytoskeleton layer and that in turn facilitates VRAC.

Swelling-activated ion channels: functional regulation in cell-swelling, proliferation and apoptosis

Cell volume regulation is one of the most fundamental homeostatic mechanisms and essential for normal cellular function. At the same time, however, many physiological mechanisms are associated with regulatory changes in cell size meaning that the set point for cell volume regulation is under physiological control. Thus, cell volume is under a tight and dynamic control and abnormal cell volume regulation will ultimately lead to severe cellular dysfunction, including alterations in cell proliferation and cell death. This review describes the different swelling-activated ion channels that participate as key players in the maintenance of normal steady-state cell volume, with particular emphasis on the intracellular signalling pathways responsible for their regulation during hypotonic stress, cell proliferation and apoptosis.

Regulation of the cell swelling-activated chloride conductance by cholesterol-rich membrane domains

AIM

The role of high cholesterol-containing microdomains in the signal transduction cascade leading to the activation of volume-regulated anion channels (VRACs) was studied.

METHODS

Osmotic cell swelling-induced efflux of 125I- was determined in human epithelial Intestine 407 cells and in skin fibroblasts obtained from healthy controls or Niemann-Pick type C (NPC) patients. Cellular cholesterol content was modulated by pre-incubation with 2-hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin in the presence of acceptor lipid vesicles.

RESULTS

Osmotic cell swelling of human Intestine 407 cells leads to the rapid activation of a compensatory anion conductance. Treatment of the cells with cyclodextrin enhanced the response to submaximal hypotonic stimulation by approx. twofold, but did not further increase the efflux elicited by a saturating stimulus. In contrast, the volume-sensitive anion efflux was markedly inhibited when cholesterol-loaded cyclodextrin was used. Potentiation of the response by cholesterol depletion was maintained in caveolin-1 deficient Caco-2 colonocytes as well as in sphingomyelinase-treated Intestine 407 cells, indicating that cholesterol-rich microdomains are not crucially involved. However, treatment of the cells with progesterone, an inhibitor of NPC1-dependent endosomal cholesterol trafficking, not only markedly reduced the hypotonicity-provoked anion efflux, but also prevented its potentiation by cyclodextrin. In addition, the volume-sensitive anion efflux from human NPC skin fibroblasts was significantly smaller when compared with control fibroblasts.

CONCLUSIONS

The results support a model of regulatory volume decrease involving recruitment of volume-sensitive anion channels from intracellular compartments to the plasma membrane.