The c-Jun N-terminal kinase JNK participates in cytokine- and isolation stress-induced rat pancreatic islet apoptosis

Exploration of the Shared Hub Genes and Biological Mechanism in Osteoporosis and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus based on Machine Learning

A substantial amount of evidence suggests a close relationship between osteoporosis (OP) and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), but the mechanisms involved remain unknown. Therefore, we conducted this study with the aim of screening for hub genes common to both diseases and conducting a preliminary exploration of common regulatory mechanisms. In the present study, we first screened genes significantly associated with OP and T2DM by the univariate logistic regression algorithm. And then, based on cross-analysis and random forest algorithm, we obtained three hub genes (ACAA2, GATAD2A, and VPS35) and validated the critical roles and predictive performance of the three genes in both diseases by differential expression analysis, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and genome wide association study (GWAS) analysis. Finally, based on gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and the construction of the miRNA-mRNA regulatory network, we conducted a preliminary exploration of the co-regulatory mechanisms of three hub genes in two diseases. In conclusion, this study provides promising biomarkers for predicting and treating both diseases and offers novel directions for exploring the common regulatory mechanisms of both diseases.

The protective role of shenqi compound in type 2 diabetes: A comprehensive investigation of pancreatic β-cell function and mass

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a prevalent metabolic disorder characterized by impaired insulin secretion and insulin resistance, resulting in elevated blood glucose levels. The dysfunction and loss of pancreatic β-cells, responsible for producing insulin, contribute to the development of T2D. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has emerged as a potential source of innovative therapeutic interventions. However, limited research exists on Chinese herbal formulations specifically targeting the protection of pancreatic β-cell function and mass. One such formulation is the Shenqi compound (SQC), widely used in China and consisting of Panax Ginseng, Astragali Radix, Rhizoma Dioscoreae, Corni Fructus, Rehmanniae Radix, Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, Radix Trichosanthis, and Rhei Radix et Rhizoma. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of SQC is crucial for developing novel treatment strategies for T2D. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the scientific evidence supporting the role of SQC in alleviating T2D by targeting the protection of pancreatic β-cell function and mass. Spontaneously diabetic GK rats were used as the animal model, receiving SQC (14.4 g/kg/d) for 8 weeks. The results demonstrate multiple beneficial effects of SQC, including significant control of blood glucose levels (P < 0.05), inhibition of insulin resistance (measured by Western Blot), reduction of hyperinsulinemia (P < 0.05), attenuation of oxidative stress (P < 0.05), suppression of inflammation (P < 0.05), protection against islet hypertrophy and beta cell proliferation (evaluated through pathological staining), and inhibition of β-cell apoptosis and senescence (also assessed through pathological staining). These findings indicate the promotion of β-cell survival and function. In vitro experiments using isolated islets further support these results, revealing improvements in insulin secretion (P < 0.05) and β-cell function following SQC therapy (P < 0.05). This represents a significant breakthrough in addressing β-cell dysfunction and preserving mass within the context of TCM. Overall, SQC shows promise as a natural therapeutic approach for T2D, with potential benefits in preserving pancreatic β-cell function and mass. This enhances the practical applicability and significance of the research by bridging the gap between experimental findings and clinical practice, thereby providing important clinical value in TCM treatment of T2D. Further research is necessary to elucidate its precise mechanisms of action and optimize its clinical application.

Acute and chronic effects of the organophosphate malathion on the pancreatic α and β cell viability, cell structure, and voltage-gated K+ currents

Studies indicate that the pesticide malathion may have a role in diabetes. Herein, we determined the effects of different concentrations of malathion on survival, ultrastructure, and electrophysiologic islet cell parameters. Acutely, high concentrations of malathion (0.5 or 1 mM) increased cell death in rat islet cells, while low concentrations (0.1 mM) caused signs of cell damage in pancreatic α and β cells. Exposure of RINm5F cells to malathion for 24 or 48 h confirmed the reduction in β-cell viability at lower concentrations (0.001-100 µM). Chronic exposure of mouse pancreatic α and β cells to 3 nM of malathion led to increased voltage-gated K⁺ (K_v) currents in α-cells. Our findings show a time and concentration dependency for the malathion effect on the reduction of islet cell viability and indicate that pancreatic α cells are more sensitive to malathion effects on K_v currents and cell death.

Regulation and function of AP-1 in insulinoma cells and pancreatic β-cells

Ca_v1.2 L-type voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels play a central role in pancreatic β-cells by integrating extracellular signals with intracellular signaling events leading to insulin secretion and altered gene transcription. Here, we investigated the intracellular signaling pathway following stimulation of Ca_v1.2 Ca²⁺ channels and addressed the function of the transcription factor activator protein-1 (AP-1) in pancreatic β-cells of transgenic mice. Stimulation of Ca_v1.2 Ca²⁺ channels activates AP-1 in insulinoma cells. Pharmacological and genetic experiments identified c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase as a signal transducer connecting Ca_v1.2 Ca²⁺ channel activation with gene transcription. Moreover, the basic region-leucine zipper proteins ATF2 and c-Jun or c-Jun-related proteins were involved in stimulus-transcription coupling. We addressed the functions of AP-1 in pancreatic β-cells analyzing a newly generated transgenic mouse model. These transgenic mice expressed A-Fos, a mutant of c-Fos that attenuates DNA binding of c-Fos dimerization partners. In insulinoma cells, A-Fos completely blocked AP-1 activation following stimulation of Ca_v1.2 Ca²⁺ channels. The analysis of transgenic A-Fos-expressing mice revealed that the animals displayed impaired glucose tolerance. Thus, we show here for the first time that AP-1 controls an important function of pancreatic β-cells in vivo, the regulation of glucose homeostasis.

JNK1 ablation improves pancreatic β-cell mass and function in db/db diabetic mice without affecting insulin sensitivity and adipose tissue inflammation

The cJun N‐terminal Kinases (JNK) emerged as a major link between obesity and insulin resistance, but their role in the loss of pancreatic β‐cell mass and function driving the progression from insulin resistance to type‐2 diabetes and in the complications of diabetes was not investigated to the same extent. Furthermore, it was shown that pan‐JNK inhibition exacerbates kidney damage in the db/db model of obesity‐driven diabetes. Here we investigate the role of JNK1 in the db/db model of obesity‐driven type‐2 diabetes. Mice with systemic ablation of JNK1 (JNK1^−/−) were backcrossed for more than 10 generations in db/+ C57BL/KS mice to generate db/db‐JNK1^−/− mice and db/db control mice. To define the role of JNK1 in the loss of β‐cell mass and function occurring during obesity‐driven diabetes we performed comprehensive metabolic phenotyping, evaluated steatosis and metabolic inflammation, performed morphometric and cellular composition analysis of pancreatic islets, and evaluated kidney function in db/db‐JNK1^−/− mice and db/db controls. db/db‐JNK1^−/− mice and db/db control mice developed insulin resistance, fatty liver, and metabolic inflammation to a similar extent. However, db/db‐JNK1^−/− mice displayed better glucose tolerance and improved insulin levels during glucose tolerance test, higher pancreatic insulin content, and larger pancreatic islets with more β‐cells than db/db mice. Finally, albuminuria, kidney histopathology, kidney inflammation and oxidative stress in db/db‐JNK1^−/− mice and in db/db mice were similar. Our data indicate that selective JNK1 ablation improves glucose tolerance in db/db mice by reducing the loss of functional β‐cells occurring in the db/db mouse model of obesity‐driven diabetes, without significantly affecting metabolic inflammation, steatosis, and insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, we have found that, differently from what previously reported for pan‐JNK inhibitors, selective JNK1 ablation does not exacerbate kidney dysfunction in db/db mice. We conclude that selective JNK1 inactivation may have a superior therapeutic index than pan‐JNK inhibition in obesity‐driven diabetes.

Role of Wnt signaling pathways in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has become a major global public health issue in the twenty-first century and its incidence has increased each year. Wnt signaling pathways are a set of multi-downstream signaling pathways activated by the binding of Wnt ligands to membrane protein receptors. Wnt signaling pathways regulate protein expression and play important roles in protecting the body's normal physiological metabolism. This review describes Wnt signaling pathways, and then aims to reveal how Wnt signaling pathways participate in the occurrence and development of T2DM. We found that Wnt/c-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling was closely associated with insulin resistance, inflammatory response, and pancreatic β-cell and endothelial dysfunction. β-catenin/transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2)-mediated and calcineurin/nuclear factor of activated T cells-mediated target genes were involved in insulin synthesis and secretion, insulin degradation, pancreatic β-cell growth and regeneration, and functional application of pancreatic β-cells. In addition, polymorphisms in the TCF7L2 gene could increase risk of T2DM according to previous and the most current results, and the T allele of its variants was a more adverse factor for abnormal pancreatic β-cell function and impaired glucose tolerance in patients with T2DM. These findings indicate a strong correlation between Wnt signaling pathways and T2DM, particularly in terms of pancreatic islet dysfunction and insulin resistance, and new therapeutic targets for T2DM may be identified.

Oligomannuronate prevents mitochondrial dysfunction induced by IAPP in RINm5F islet cells by inhibition of JNK activation and cell apoptosis

Background

Oligomannuronates (OM) are natural products from alginate that is frequently used as food supplement. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro protective effects of OM on RINm5F cells against human Islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) induced mitochondrial dysfunction, as well as the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

In the present study, we obtained several kinds of OM with different molecular masses, and then we used RINm5F cells as a model to elucidate the involvement of JNK signal pathway in hIAPP-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in pancreatic beta cells, and the protective effects of OM are associated with its ability to attenuate the mitochondrial dysfunction.

Results

Our results demonstrated that human IAPP induced mitochondrial dysfunction, as evidence by loss of ΔΨm and ATP content, and decrease in oxygen consumption and complex activities, was accompanied by JNK activation, changes in the expressions of Bcl-2 and Bax proteins, release of cytochrome c (Cyto-c) and apoptosis inducing factor (AIF) from mitochondria into cytosol. Interestingly, the human IAPP induced damage in RINm5F cells were effectively restored by co-treatment of OM. Moreover, JNK activation was required for the OM mediated changes in RINm5F cells.

Conclusions

OM prevented mitochondrial dysfunction induced by human IAPP in RINm5F islet cells through JNK dependent signaling pathways.

Dual Role of Nitric Oxide in Regulating the Response of β Cells to DNA Damage

SIGNIFICANCE

Cytokines released in and around pancreatic islets during islet inflammation are believed to contribute to impaired β cell function and β cell death during the development of diabetes. Nitric oxide, produced by β cells in response to cytokine exposure, controls many of the responses of β cells during islet inflammation. Recent Advances: Although nitric oxide has been shown to inhibit insulin secretion and oxidative metabolism and induce DNA damage in β cells, it also activates protective pathways that promote recovery of insulin secretion and oxidative metabolism and repair of damaged DNA. Recent studies have identified a novel role for nitric oxide in selectively regulating the DNA damage response in β cells.

CRITICAL ISSUES

Does nitric oxide mediate cytokine-induced β cell damage, or is nitric oxide produced by β cells in response to cytokines to protect β cells from damage?

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

β cells appear to be the only islet endocrine cell type capable of responding to proinflammatory cytokines with the production of nitric oxide, and these terminally differentiated cells have a limited capacity to regenerate. It is likely that there is a physiological purpose for this response, and understanding this could open new areas of study regarding the loss of functional β cell mass during diabetes development.

An optimized protocol for purification of functional islets of Langerhans

Islets of Langerhans and β-cell isolation constitute routinely used cell models for diabetic research, and refining islet isolation protocols and cell quality assessment is a high priority. Numerous protocols have been published describing isolate of islets, but often rigorous and systematic assessment of their integrity is lacking. Herein, we propose a new protocol for optimal generation of islets. Pancreases from mice and rats were excised and digested using a low-activity collagenase solution and islets were then purified by a series of sedimentations and a Percoll gradient. Islets were maintained in culture for 5 days, during which viability, pro/antiapoptotic, and islet-specific genes, glucose-stimulated calcium entry, glucose uptake, and insulin secretion were assessed. The commonly used islet isolation technique by collagenase injection through the common bile duct (CBD) was also performed and compared with the present approach. This new protocol produced islets that retained a healthy status as demonstrated by the yield of stable living cells. Furthermore, calcium oscillation, glucose uptake, and insulin secretion remained intact in the islet cultures. This was reproducible when many rodent species were used, and neither sex nor age affected the cells behavior. When compared with the CBD technique, islet physiology was similar. Finally, this approach was used to uncover new ion channel candidates implicated in insulin secretion. In conclusion, this study outlines an efficient protocol for islet preparation that may support research into new therapeutic targets in diabetes research.

JNK at the crossroad of obesity, insulin resistance, and cell stress response

BACKGROUND

The cJun-N-terminal-kinase (JNK) plays a central role in the cell stress response, with outcomes ranging from cell death to cell proliferation and survival, depending on the specific context. JNK is also one of the most investigated signal transducers in obesity and insulin resistance, and studies have identified new molecular mechanisms linking obesity and insulin resistance. Emerging evidence indicates that whereas JNK1 and JNK2 isoforms promote the development of obesity and insulin resistance, JNK3 activity protects from excessive adiposity. Furthermore, current evidence indicates that JNK activity within specific cell types may, in specific stages of disease progression, promote cell tolerance to the stress associated with obesity and type-2 diabetes.

SCOPE OF REVIEW

This review provides an overview of the current literature on the role of JNK in the progression from obesity to insulin resistance, NAFLD, type-2 diabetes, and diabetes complications.

MAJOR CONCLUSION

Whereas current evidence indicates that JNK1/2 inhibition may improve insulin sensitivity in obesity, the role of JNK in the progression from insulin resistance to diabetes, and its complications is largely unresolved. A better understanding of the role of JNK in the stress response to obesity and type-2 diabetes, and the development of isoform-specific inhibitors with specific tissue distribution will be necessary to exploit JNK as possible drug target for the treatment of type-2 diabetes.

An Isogenic Human ESC Platform for Functional Evaluation of Genome-wide-Association-Study-Identified Diabetes Genes and Drug Discovery

Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have increased our knowledge of loci associated with a range of human diseases. However, applying such findings to elucidate pathophysiology and promote drug discovery remains challenging. Here, we created isogenic human ESCs (hESCs) with mutations in GWAS-identified susceptibility genes for type 2 diabetes. In pancreatic beta-like cells differentiated from these lines, we found that mutations in CDKAL1, KCNQ1, and KCNJ11 led to impaired glucose secretion in vitro and in vivo, coinciding with defective glucose homeostasis. CDKAL1 mutant insulin+ cells were also hypersensitive to glucolipotoxicity. A high-content chemical screen identified a candidate drug that rescued CDKAL1-specific defects in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting the FOS/JUN pathway. Our approach of a proof-of-principle platform, which uses isogenic hESCs for functional evaluation of GWAS-identified loci and identification of a drug candidate that rescues gene-specific defects, paves the way for precision therapy of metabolic diseases.

Protective role of downregulated MLK3 in myocardial adaptation to chronic hypoxia

A series of protective responses could be evoked to achieve compensatory adaptation once cardiomyocytes are subjected to chronic hypoxia. MLK3/JNK/c-jun signaling pathway was previously demonstrated to be involved in this process. In the present study, we aim to further examine the performance of MLK3 in hypoxic H9C2 cells and potential mechanism. Myocardial samples of patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) were collected. H9C2 cells were cultured in hypoxic conditions for various durations. MLK3 was silenced by transfection of shRNA to evaluate its role in cell viability. We found expression of MLK3 protein was lower in patients with cyanotic CHD. In hypoxic H9C2 cells, its expression was gradually decreased in a time-dependent manner. However, there was no significant difference about expression of MLK3 mRNA. According to the results of MTT, LDH, and TUNEL, faster cell growth curve, lower death rate, and less apoptotic cells could be observed in MLK-shRNA group compared with scramble-shRNA group. Silencing of MLK3 significantly reduced expression of cleaved caspase-3, cleaved PARP, Bad, and Bax, together with increased expression of Bcl-2 and ration of Bcl-2/Bax. Both ratio of phospho-JNK/total JNK and ratio of phospho-c-jun/total c-jun were significantly decreased once MLK3 was silenced. At various reoxygenation time, MLK3 shRNA could significantly promote cell survival and decrease cell death according to MTT and LDH. Our results suggested that chronic hypoxia could reduce MLK3 expression in a posttranscriptional regulatory manner. Downregulation of MLK3 protects H9C2 cells from hypoxia-induced apoptosis and H/R injury via blocking the activation of JNK and c-jun.

Hypoxia reduces ER-to-Golgi protein trafficking and increases cell death by inhibiting the adaptive unfolded protein response in mouse beta cells

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Hypoxia may contribute to beta cell failure in type 2 diabetes and islet transplantation. The adaptive unfolded protein response (UPR) is required for endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis. Here we investigated whether or not hypoxia regulates the UPR in beta cells and the role the adaptive UPR plays during hypoxic stress.

METHODS

Mouse islets and MIN6 cells were exposed to various oxygen (O2) tensions. DNA-damage inducible transcript 3 (DDIT3), hypoxia-inducible transcription factor (HIF)1α and HSPA5 were knocked down using small interfering (si)RNA; Hspa5 was also overexpressed. db/db mice were used.

RESULTS

Hypoxia-response genes were upregulated in vivo in the islets of diabetic, but not prediabetic, db/db mice. In isolated mouse islets and MIN6 cells, O2 deprivation (1-5% vs 20%; 4-24 h) markedly reduced the expression of adaptive UPR genes, including Hspa5, Hsp90b1, Fkbp11 and spliced Xbp1. Coatomer protein complex genes (Copa, Cope, Copg [also known as Copg1], Copz1 and Copz2) and ER-to-Golgi protein trafficking were also reduced, whereas apoptotic genes (Ddit3, Atf3 and Trb3 [also known as Trib3]), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation and cell death were increased. Inhibition of JNK, but not HIF1α, restored adaptive UPR gene expression and ER-to-Golgi protein trafficking while protecting against apoptotic genes and cell death following hypoxia. DDIT3 knockdown delayed the loss of the adaptive UPR and partially protected against hypoxia-induced cell death. The latter response was prevented by HSPA5 knockdown. Finally, Hspa5 overexpression significantly protected against hypoxia-induced cell death.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Hypoxia inhibits the adaptive UPR in beta cells via JNK and DDIT3 activation, but independently of HIF1α. Downregulation of the adaptive UPR contributes to reduced ER-to-Golgi protein trafficking and increased beta cell death during hypoxic stress.

Cytokines and Pancreatic β-Cell Apoptosis

The discovery 30 years ago that inflammatory cytokines cause a concentration, activity, and time-dependent bimodal response in pancreatic β-cell function and viability has been a game-changer in the fields of research directed at understanding inflammatory regulation of β-cell function and survival and the causes of β-cell failure and destruction in diabetes. Having until then been confined to the use of pathophysiologically irrelevant β-cell toxic chemicals as a model of β-cell death, researchers could now mimic endocrine and paracrine effects of the cytokine response in vitro by titrating concentrations in the low to the high picomolar-femtomolar range and vary exposure time for up to 14-16h to reproduce the acute regulatory effects of systemic inflammation on β-cell secretory responses, with a shift to inhibition at high picomolar concentrations or more than 16h of exposure to illustrate adverse effects of local, chronic islet inflammation. Since then, numerous studies have clarified how these bimodal responses depend on discrete signaling pathways. Most interest has been devoted to the proapoptotic response dependent upon mainly nuclear factor κ B and mitogen-activated protein kinase activation, leading to gene expressional changes, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and triggering of mitochondrial dysfunction. Preclinical studies have shown preventive effects of cytokine antagonism in animal models of diabetes, and clinical trials demonstrating proof of concept are emerging. The full clinical potential of anticytokine therapies has yet to be shown by testing the incremental effects of appropriate dosing, timing, and combinations of treatments. Due to the considerable translational importance of enhancing the precision, specificity, and safety of antiinflammatory treatments of diabetes, we review here the cellular, preclinical, and clinical evidence of which of the death pathways recently proposed in the Nomenclature Committee on Cell Death 2012 Recommendations are activated by inflammatory cytokines in the pancreatic β-cell to guide the identification of antidiabetic targets. Although there are still scarce human data, the cellular and preclinical studies point to the caspase-dependent intrinsic apoptosis pathway as the prime effector of inflammatory β-cell apoptosis.

Distinct functions of the dual leucine zipper kinase depending on its subcellular localization

The dual leucine zipper kinase DLK induces β-cell apoptosis by inhibiting the transcriptional activity conferred by the β-cell protective transcription factor cAMP response element binding protein CREB. This action might contribute to β-cell loss and ultimately diabetes. Within its kinase domain DLK shares high homology with the mixed lineage kinase (MLK) 3, which is activated by tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α and interleukin (IL)-1β, known prediabetic signals. In the present study, the regulation of DLK in β-cells by these cytokines was investigated. Both, TNFα and IL-1β induced the nuclear translocation of DLK. Mutations within a putative nuclear localization signal (NLS) prevented basal and cytokine-induced nuclear localization of DLK and binding to the importin receptor importin α, thereby demonstrating a functional NLS within DLK. DLK NLS mutants were catalytically active as they phosphorylated their down-stream kinase c-Jun N-terminal kinase to the same extent as DLK wild-type but did neither inhibit CREB-dependent gene transcription nor transcription conferred by the promoter of the anti-apoptotic protein BCL-xL. In addition, the β-cell apoptosis-inducing effect of DLK was severely diminished by mutation of its NLS. In a murine model of prediabetes, enhanced nuclear DLK was found. These data demonstrate that DLK exerts distinct functions, depending on its subcellular localization and thus provide a novel level of regulating DLK action. Furthermore, the prevention of the nuclear localization of DLK as induced by prediabetic signals with consecutive suppression of β-cell apoptosis might constitute a novel target in the therapy of diabetes mellitus.

JNK1 Deficient Insulin-Producing Cells Are Protected against Interleukin-1β-Induced Apoptosis Associated with Abrogated Myc Expression

The relative contributions of the JNK subtypes in inflammatory β-cell failure and apoptosis are unclear. The JNK protein family consists of JNK1, JNK2, and JNK3 subtypes, encompassing many different isoforms. INS-1 cells express JNK1α1, JNK1α2, JNK1β1, JNK1β2, JNK2α1, JNK2α2, JNK3α1, and JNK3α2 mRNA isoform transcripts translating into 46 and 54 kDa isoform JNK proteins. Utilizing Lentiviral mediated expression of shRNAs against JNK1, JNK2, or JNK3 in insulin-producing INS-1 cells, we investigated the role of individual JNK subtypes in IL-1β-induced β-cell apoptosis. JNK1 knockdown prevented IL-1β-induced INS-1 cell apoptosis associated with decreased 46 kDa isoform JNK protein phosphorylation and attenuated Myc expression. Transient knockdown of Myc also prevented IL-1β-induced apoptosis as well as caspase 3 cleavage. JNK2 shRNA potentiated IL-1β-induced apoptosis and caspase 3 cleavage, whereas JNK3 shRNA did not affect IL-1β-induced β-cell death compared to nonsense shRNA expressing INS-1 cells. In conclusion, JNK1 mediates INS-1 cell death associated with increased Myc expression. These findings underline the importance of differentiated targeting of JNK subtypes in the development of inflammatory β-cell failure and destruction.

Regulation of the JNK3 signaling pathway during islet isolation: JNK3 and c-fos as new markers of islet quality for transplantation

Stress conditions generated throughout pancreatic islet processing initiate the activation of pro-inflammatory pathways and beta-cell destruction. Our goal is to identify relevant and preferably beta-specific markers to assess the activation of beta-cell stress and apoptotic mechanisms, and therefore the general quality of the islet preparation prior to transplantation. Protein expression and activation were analyzed by Western blotting and kinase assays. ATP measurements were performed by a luminescence-based assay. Oxygen consumption rate (OCR) was measured based on standard protocols using fiber optic sensors. Total RNA was used for gene expression analyzes. Our results indicate that pancreas digestion initiates a potent stress response in the islets by activating two stress kinases, c-Jun N-terminal Kinase (JNK) and p38. JNK1 protein levels remained unchanged between different islet preparations and following culture. In contrast, levels of JNK3 increased after islet culture, but varied markedly, with a subset of preparations bearing low JNK3 expression. The observed changes in JNK3 protein content strongly correlated with OCR measurements as determined by the Spearman's rank correlation coefficient rho in the matching islet samples, while inversely correlating with c-fos mRNA expression . In conclusion, pancreas digestion recruits JNK and p38 kinases that are known to participate to beta-cell apoptosis. Concomitantly, the islet isolation alters JNK3 and c-fos expression, both strongly correlating with OCR. Thus, a comparative analysis of JNK3 and c-fos expression before and after culture may provide for novel markers to assess islet quality prior to transplantation. JNK3 has the advantage over all other proposed markers to be islet-specific, and thus to provide for a marker independent of non-beta cell contamination.

Effect of cell permeable peptide of c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase inhibitor on the attenuation of renal ischemia-reperfusion injury in pigs

The outcomes of organ transplantation have improved due to better immunosuppressive drugs, surgical techniques, and management of complications. However, ischemia-reperfusion injury remains a challenge affecting graft survival. In this study, we employed injection of a protein transduction domain (PTD) to inhibit the c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway thereby attenuating ischemia-reperfusion injury in a porcine model. The PTD-JNK inhibitor (JNKI) was administered into the renal artery, allowing it to be taken into various elements including vascular endothelial cells by endocytosis via the PTD. Serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen concentrations were lower among PTD-JNKI than controls. In addition, renal tissue blood flow was maintained in the PTD-JNKI group, resulting in less tissue injury and fewer apoptotic cells. These results suggested that the PTD technique improved renal transplantation outcomes.

Exendin-4 protects murine MIN6 pancreatic β-cells from interleukin-1β-induced apoptosis via the NF-κB pathway

BACKGROUND

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and its potent analog, exendin-4, are well known to inhibit β- cell apoptosis and promote β-cell proliferation. Meanwhile, cytokines, such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β), stimulate inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression and nitric oxide overproduction leading to β-cell damage. However, the protective mechanisms of GLP-1 in β-cells exposed to cytokines have not been fully elucidated.

AIMS

In this study, the protective effects of exendin-4 on IL-1β-induced apoptosis were investigated in murine MIN6 pancreatic β-cells. The role of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling in this process was also explored.

METHODS

The effects of exendin-4 pre-treatment on IL-1β-induced apoptosis were investigated by Hoechst/PI and Annexin V/PI staining. Levels of iNOS and NF-κB proteins were investigated by Western blotting and cytoplasmic nitrite levels were determined using Griess reagent.

RESULTS

IL-1β treatment (range, 5-40 ng/ml) for 24 h was positively correlated with nitrite production (R2=0.9668, p<0.01), a significant increase in the percentage of apoptotic cells (p<0.01) and a concomitant dose-dependent increase in cytoplasmic levels of iNOS and NF-κB p65 activation. N-acetyl- L-cysteine (NAC), NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) and pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC), partially rescued apoptotic β-cells, suggesting involvement of NF-κB-iNOS-nitrite in this process. Exendin-4 (100 nM) treatment significantly decreased IL-1β-induced apoptosis (p<0.01), downregulated NF-κB activation and subsequently decreased iNOS and nitrite levels in IL-1β-induced β-cells (p<0.001), in a similar manner to L-NAME, PDTC and NAC.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that exendin-4 protects against IL-1β- induced apoptosis in β-cells via downregulation of the NF- κB-iNOS-nitrite pathway.

Manufacturing porcine islets: culture at 22 °C has no advantage above culture at 37 °C: a gene expression evaluation

BACKGROUND

The manufacturing process of islets includes a culture step which was originally introduced to ease the logistics of procedures in preparing the graft and transplant recipient. It has been suggested that culture at room temperature has an advantage over culture at 37 °C, in part by reducing immunogenicity via preferential elimination of contaminating cells (such as passenger leukocytes) within islets. We investigated this using islets isolated from pancreata of adult pigs.

METHODS

Porcine islets were isolated from three donors and cultured at 37 °C for 1 day, and then under three different conditions: 37 °C for 6 days (condition A); 22 °C for 6 days (condition B); or 22 °C for 5 days followed by 37 °C for 1 day (condition C). Recovery was assessed by DNA measurement, viability by oxygen consumption rate normalized for DNA (OCR/DNA), and gene expression by RT-PCR for a series of 9 lymphocyte markers, 11 lymphokines and chemokines, and 14 apoptotic and stress markers.

RESULTS

Post-culture islet recoveries were similar for the three culture conditions. Average OCR/DNA values were 129-159 nmol/min·mgDNA before culture, and 259-291, 204-212, and 207-228 nmol/min·mgDNA, respectively, for culture under conditions A, B, and C, respectively. Irrespective of culture condition, examined gene expression in all three series of lymphocyte markers, lymphokines and chemokines, and apoptotic and stress markers manifested a statistically significant decrease upon culture for 7 days. This decrease was most dramatic for condition A: in particular, most of lymphocyte markers showed a >10-fold reduction and also six markers in the lymphokine and chemokine series; these reductions are consistent with the elimination of immune cells present within islets during culture. The reduction was less for apoptotic and stress markers. For culture under condition B, the reduction in gene expression was less, and culture under condition C resulted in gene expression levels similar to those under condition A: this indicates that 24 h at 37 °C is sufficient to re-equilibrate gene expression levels from those in islets cultured at 22 °C to those in islets cultured at 37 °C. Results were consistent among the preparations from the three donors.

CONCLUSIONS

Culture of porcine islets at 37 °C provides benefits over culture at 22 °C with respect to OCR/DNA outcomes and reduced expression of genes encoding lymphocyte markers, lymphokines and chemokines, and markers for apoptosis and stress.

Insulin resistance: an emerging link in Alzheimer's disease

Relentless progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) poses a grave situation for the biomedical community to tackle. Agents starting as hot favorites in clinical trials have failed in later stages and it is time we reconsidered our approaches to intervene the disease. Quite some interesting work in the last decade has introduced a new school of thought which factors in neuronal glycemic imbalance as a major component for the development of AD. Insulin resistance in the brain has brought forward subsequent sequelae which might work towards amyloid accretion and/or tau hyperphosphorylation. It is also pointed out that insulin works by distributing iron to neuronal tissue and an insulin resistant state throws it off gear leading to iron overloading of neurons which is ultimately detrimental. A relatively recent investigation finds the role of c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK3) in AD which also seems to bear a link with insulin resistance.

Baculoviral inhibitors of apoptosis repeat containing (BIRC) proteins fine-tune TNF-induced nuclear factor κB and c-Jun N-terminal kinase signalling in mouse pancreatic beta cells

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

For beta cells, contact with TNF-α triggers signalling cascades that converge on pathways important for cell survival and inflammation, specifically nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. Here, we investigated the function of baculoviral inhibitors of apoptosis repeat containing (BIRC) proteins in regulating TNF signalling cascades.

METHODS

TNF regulation of Birc genes was studied by mRNA expression and promoter analysis. Birc gene control of cell signalling was studied in beta cell lines, and in islets from Birc2(-/-) and Birc3(-/-) mice, and from Birc3(-/-) Birc2Δ beta cell mice that selectively lack Birc2 and Birc3 (double knockout [DKO]). Islet function was tested by intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test and transplantation.

RESULTS

TNF-α selectively induced Birc3 in beta cells, which in turn was sufficient to drive and potentiate NF-κB reporter activity. Conversely, Birc3(-/-) islets exhibited delayed TNF-α-induced IκBα degradation with reduced expression of Ccl2 and Cxcl10. DKO islets showed a further delay in IκBα degradation kinetics. Surprisingly, DKO islets exhibited stimulus-independent and TNF-dependent hyperexpression of TNF target genes A20 (also known as Tnfaip3), Icam1, Ccl2 and Cxcl10. DKO islets showed hyperphosphorylation of the JNK-substrate, c-Jun, while a JNK-antagonist prevented increases of Icam1, Ccl2 and Cxcl10 expression. Proteosome blockade of MIN6 cells phenocopied DKO islets. DKO islets showed more rapid loss of glucose homeostasis when challenged with the inflammatory insult of transplantation.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

BIRC3 provides a feed-forward loop, which, with BIRC2, is required to moderate the normal speed of NF-κB activation. Paradoxically, BIRC2 and BIRC3 act as a molecular brake to rein in activation of the JNK signalling pathway. Thus BIRC2 and BIRC3 fine-tune NF-κB and JNK signalling to ensure transcriptional responses are appropriately matched to extracellular inputs. This control is critical for the beta cell's stress response.

The role of reactive oxygen species and proinflammatory cytokines in type 1 diabetes pathogenesis

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a T cell–mediated autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of insulin-secreting pancreatic β cells. In humans with T1D and in nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice (a murine model for human T1D), autoreactive T cells cause β-cell destruction, as transfer or deletion of these cells induces or prevents disease, respectively. CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells use distinct effector mechanisms and act at different stages throughout T1D to fuel pancreatic β-cell destruction and disease pathogenesis. While these adaptive immune cells employ distinct mechanisms for β-cell destruction, one central means for enhancing their autoreactivity is by the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, such as IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-1. In addition to their production by diabetogenic T cells, proinflammatory cytokines are induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) via redox-dependent signaling pathways. Highly reactive molecules, proinflammatory cytokines are produced upon lymphocyte infiltration into pancreatic islets and induce disease pathogenicity by directly killing β cells, which characteristically possess low levels of antioxidant defense enzymes. In addition to β-cell destruction, proinflammatory cytokines are necessary for efficient adaptive immune maturation, and in the context of T1D they exacerbate autoimmunity by intensifying adaptive immune responses. The first half of this review discusses the mechanisms by which autoreactive T cells induce T1D pathogenesis and the importance of ROS for efficient adaptive immune activation, which, in the context of T1D, exacerbates autoimmunity. The second half provides a comprehensive and detailed analysis of (1) the mechanisms by which cytokines such as IL-1 and IFN-γ influence islet insulin secretion and apoptosis and (2) the key free radicals and transcription factors that control these processes.

[Effects of Chinese herbal medicine Danzhi Jiangtang Capsule and exercise on JNK signaling pathway in pancreatic tissues of diabetic rats]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effects of exercise and Danzhi Jiangtang Capsule (DJC), a compound traditional herbal medicine, on the JNK signaling pathway in pancreatic tissues of diabetic rats and to investigate the possible mechanisms of exercise and DJC in treating diabetes.

METHODS

Seventy-eight male Wistar rats were injected with low dose of streptozotocin and fed a high-fat diet to establish a diabetic model in rats. Then 60 diabetic rats were divided into diabetes group, exercise group, DJC group and exercise combined with DJC group. Another twelve rats were used as normal control. After eight months of treatment, the expression levels of phosphor-c-Jun N-terminal kinase (p-JNK), pancreatic and duodenal homeobox-1 (PDX-1), and insulin protein in pancreatic tissues from rats were detected by immunohistochemical method and Western blotting.

RESULTS

In pancreatic tissues of diabetes group, the expression level of p-JNK protein was significantly higher than that in the normal group (P<0.01), and the expression levels of PDX-1 and insulin protein were significantly decreased (P<0.01). After administration of exercise and DJC, the expression level of p-JNK protein in pancreatic tissues of the diabetes group was decreased significantly, while the expression levels of PDX-1 and insulin protein were increased significantly (P<0.05 or P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

Exercise and DJC effectively protect isletβ-cell function in diabetic rats, which might be due to a decreased JNK signaling pathway.

Effect of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) in morphine-induced tau protein hyperphosphorylation

Opioids have been widely used in clinical practice as potent pain relievers for centuries. However, opioids have many deleterious effects. It has been reported that opioid increases tau protein phosphorylation. Hyperphosphorylation of tau is also a pathological feature of Alzheimer's disease and other chronic neurodegenerative disorders. However, the underlying mechanism by which opioids enhance tau phosphorylation is not yet known. In this study, we treated rat embryo cortical neurons with morphine and observed its effect on tau phosphorylation. We found that morphine induced tau hyperphosphorylation and increased levels of phospho-JNK and phospho-p38; these effects were blocked by pretreatment with naloxone. Inhibition of JNK by SP600125 significantly reduced tau hyperphosphorylation in neurons treated with morphine. Similarly, SB203580, an antagonist of p38 MAPK, abolished tau hyperphosphorylation in neurons treated with morphine. Our data suggest that JNK/p38 MAPK, activated by morphine in an opioid receptor-dependent manner, may lead to tau hyperphosphorylation.

C/EBP homologous protein contributes to cytokine-induced pro-inflammatory responses and apoptosis in β-cells

Induction of the C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) is considered a key event for endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-mediated apoptosis. Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is characterized by an autoimmune destruction of the pancreatic β-cells. Pro-inflammatory cytokines are early mediators of β-cell death in T1D. Cytokines induce ER stress and CHOP overexpression in β-cells, but the role for CHOP overexpression in cytokine-induced β-cell apoptosis remains controversial. We presently observed that CHOP knockdown (KD) prevents cytokine-mediated degradation of the anti-apoptotic proteins B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and myeloid cell leukemia sequence 1 (Mcl-1), thereby decreasing the cleavage of executioner caspases 9 and 3, and apoptosis. Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) is a crucial transcription factor regulating β-cell apoptosis and inflammation. CHOP KD resulted in reduced cytokine-induced NF-κB activity and expression of key NF-κB target genes involved in apoptosis and inflammation, including iNOS, FAS, IRF-7, IL-15, CCL5 and CXCL10. This was due to decreased IκB degradation and p65 translocation to the nucleus. The present data suggest that CHOP has a dual role in promoting β-cell death: (1) CHOP directly contributes to cytokine-induced β-cell apoptosis by promoting cytokine-induced mitochondrial pathways of apoptosis; and (2) by supporting the NF-κB activation and subsequent cytokine/chemokine expression, CHOP may contribute to apoptosis and the chemo attraction of mononuclear cells to the islets during insulitis.

JNK3 maintains expression of the insulin receptor substrate 2 (IRS2) in insulin-secreting cells: functional consequences for insulin signaling

We have recently shown that silencing of the brain/islet specific c-Jun N-terminal Kinase3 (JNK3) isoform enhances both basal and cytokine-induced beta-cell apoptosis, whereas silencing of JNK1 or JNK2 has opposite effects. While it is known that JNK1 or JNK2 may promote apoptosis by inhibiting the activity of the pro-survival Akt pathway, the effect of JNK3 on Akt has not been documented. This study aims to determine the involvement of individual JNKs and specifically JNK3 in the regulation of the Akt signaling pathway in insulin-secreting cells. JNK3 silencing strongly decreases Insulin Receptor Substrate 2 (IRS2) protein expression, and blocks Akt2 but not Akt1 activation by insulin, while the silencing of JNK1 or JNK2 activates both Akt1 and Akt2. Concomitantly, the silencing of JNK1 or JNK2, but not of JNK3, potently phosphorylates the glycogen synthase kinase3 (GSK3β). JNK3 silencing also decreases the activity of the transcription factor Forkhead BoxO3A (FoxO3A) that is known to control IRS2 expression, in addition to increasing c-Jun levels that are known to inhibit insulin gene expression. In conclusion, we propose that JNK1/2 on one hand and JNK3 on the other hand, have opposite effects on insulin-signaling in insulin-secreting cells; JNK3 protects beta-cells from apoptosis and dysfunction mainly through maintenance of a normal IRS2 to Akt2 signaling pathway. It seems that JNK3 mediates its effects mainly at the transcriptional level, while JNK1 or JNK2 appear to mediate their pro-apoptotic effect in the cytoplasm.

ATF2 interacts with beta-cell-enriched transcription factors, MafA, Pdx1, and beta2, and activates insulin gene transcription

Pancreatic β-cell-restricted expression of insulin is established through several critical cis-regulatory elements located in the insulin gene promoter region. The principal cis elements are A-boxes, E1, and C1/RIPE3b. The β-cell-enriched transcription factors Pdx1 and Beta2 bind to the A-boxes and E1 element, respectively. A β-cell-specific trans-acting factor binding to C1/RIPE3b (termed RIPE3b1 activator) was detected by electrophoretic mobility shift assay and has been identified as MafA, a member of the Maf family of basic leucine zipper (bZip) proteins. Here, ATF2, a member of the ATF/CREB family of basic leucine zipper proteins, was identified as a component of the RIPE3b1 activator. ATF2 alone was unable to bind to the C1/RIPE3b element but acquired binding capacity upon complex formation with MafA. ATF2 also interacted with Pdx1 and Beta2, and co-expression of ATF2, MafA, Pdx1, and Beta2 resulted in a synergistic activation of the insulin promoter. Immunohistochemical analysis of mouse pancreas tissue sections showed that ATF2 is enriched in islet endocrine cells, including β-cells. RNAi-mediated knockdown of MafA or ATF2 in the MIN6 β-cell line resulted in a significant decrease in endogenous levels of insulin mRNA. These data indicate that ATF2 is an essential component of the positive regulators of the insulin gene expression.

Interleukin-targeted therapy for metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes

Interleukin-1β Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) is a key regulator of the body's inflammatory response and is produced after infection, injury, and an antigenic challenge. Cloned in 1984, the single polypeptide IL-1β has been shown to exert numerous biological effects. It plays a role in various diseases, including autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, and Type 1 diabetes, as well as in diseases associated with metabolic syndrome such as atherosclerosis, chronic heart failure, and Type 2 diabetes. The macrophage is the primary source of IL-1β, but epidermal, epithelial, lymphoid, and vascular tissues also synthesize IL-1. Recently, IL-1β production and secretion have also been reported from pancreatic islets. Insulin-producing β-cells β-cells within the pancreatic islets are specifically prone to IL-β-induced destruction and loss of function. Macrophage-derived IL-1β production in insulin-sensitive organs leads to the progression of inflammation inflammation and induction of insulin resistance in obesity. This chapter explains the mechanisms involved in the inflammatory response during diabetes progression with specific attention to the IL-1β signal effects influencing insulin action and insulin secretion insulin secretion . We highlight recent clinical studies, rodent and in vitro experiments with isolated islets using IL-1β as a potential target for the therapy of Type 2 diabetes.

Prolactin supplementation to culture medium improves beta-cell survival

OBJECTIVES

Recent studies demonstrated that prolactin (PRL) has beneficial effects on beta cells for islet transplantation. We examined the effect of human recombinant PRL (rhPRL) supplementation to the culture media to determine its potential use in the context of clinical islet transplantation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Each human islet isolated from 14 deceased multiorgan donors was cultured in Miami modified media-1 supplemented with or without rhPRL (500 microg/L) for 48 hr. beta-Cell survival and proliferation (BrdU and Ki-67) were determined by laser scanning cytometry. The cytoprotective effects of rhPRL against noxious stimuli were assessed by flow cytometry (tetramethylrhodamine ethyl ester). Cytokine/chemokine and tissue factor productions were measured in vitro, and islet potency was assessed in vivo in diabetic immunodeficient mice.

RESULTS

beta-Cell survival during culture was 37% higher in the rhPRL group than in control (P=0.029). rhPRL protected beta cells in vitro from cytokines, Nitric oxide donor, and H2O2. The exposure to rhPRL did not affect human beta-cell proliferation with our protocol. rhPRL treatment did not alter cytokine/chemokine and tissue factor production in vitro or affected human islet functionality in vivo: recipient mice achieved normoglycemia with a comparable tempo, whereas loss of graft function was observed in two of the seven mice in the control group and in none of the rhPRL group (p=n.s.).

CONCLUSION

rhPRL supplementation to islet culture media improved human beta-cell-specific survival without altering islet quality. Addition of rhPRL to cultured islets may grant a more viable beta-cell mass in culture. The development of beta-cell cytoprotective strategies will be of assistance in improving islet transplantation outcomes.

Decrease in {beta}-cell proliferation precedes apoptosis during diabetes development in bio-breeding/worcester rat: beneficial role of Exendin-4

In autoimmune type 1 diabetes mellitus, proinflammatory cytokine-mediated apoptosis of beta-cells has been considered to be the first event directly responsible for beta-cell mass reduction. In the Bio-Breeding (BB) rat, an in vivo model used in the study of autoimmune diabetes, beta-cell apoptosis is observed from 9 wk of age and takes place after an insulitis period that begins at an earlier age. Previous studies by our group have shown an antiproliferative effect of proinflammatory cytokines on cultured beta-cells in Wistar rats, an effect that was partially reversed by Exendin-4, an analogue of glucagon-like peptide-1. In the current study, the changes in beta-cell apoptosis and proliferation during insulitis stage were also determined in pancreatic tissue sections in normal and thymectomized BB rats, as well as in Wistar rats of 5, 7, 9, and 11 wk of age. Although stable beta-cell proliferation in Wistar and thymectomized BB rats was observed along the course of the study, a decrease in beta-cell proliferation and beta-cell mass from the age of 5 wk, and prior to the commencement of apoptosis, was noted in BB rats. Exendin-4, in combination with anti-interferon-gamma antibody, induced a near-total recovery of beta-cell proliferation during the initial stages of insulitis. This highlights the importance of early intervention and, as well, the possibilities of new therapeutic approaches in preventing autoimmune diabetes by acting, initially, in the insulitis stage and, subsequently, on beta-cell regeneration and on beta-cell apoptosis.

Exendin-4 prevents c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase activation by tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFalpha) and inhibits TNFalpha-induced apoptosis in insulin-secreting cells

Glucagon-like peptide-1 and its analogs may preserve pancreatic beta-cell mass by promoting resistance to cytokine-mediated apoptosis. The mechanisms of TNFalpha-induced apoptosis and of its inhibition by exendin-4 were investigated in insulin-secreting cells. INS-1 and MIN6 insulinoma cells were exposed to 20 ng/ml TNFalpha, with or without pretreatment with 10 nm exendin-4. Treatment with TNFalpha increased c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase (JNK) phosphorylation 2-fold, reduced inhibitor-kappaBalpha (IkappaBalpha) protein content by 50%, induced opposite changes in caspase-3 and Bcl-2 protein content, and increased cellular apoptosis. Moreover, exposure to TNFalpha resulted in increased serine phosphorylation of both insulin receptor substrate (IRS)-1 and IRS-2 and reduced basal and insulin-induced Akt phosphorylation. However, in the presence of a JNK inhibitor, TNFalpha-induced apoptosis was diminished and serine phosphorylation of IRS proteins was prevented. When cells were pretreated with exendin-4, TNFalpha-induced JNK and IRS-1/2 serine phosphorylation was markedly reduced, Akt phosphorylation was increased, caspase-3 and Bcl-2 protein levels were restored to normal, and TNFalpha-induced apoptosis was inhibited by 50%. This was associated with a 2-fold increase in IRS-2 expression levels. A similar ability of exendin-4 to prevent TNFalpha-induced JNK phosphorylation was found in isolated pancreatic human islets. The inhibitory effect of exendin-4 on TNFalpha-induced JNK phosphorylation was abrogated in the presence of the protein kinase A inhibitor H89. In conclusion, JNK activation mediates TNFalpha-induced apoptosis and impairment of the IRS/Akt signaling pathway in insulin-secreting cells. By inhibiting JNK phosphorylation in a PKA-dependent manner, exendin-4 counteracts TNFalpha-mediated apoptosis and reverses the inhibitory events in the IRS/Akt pathway, resulting in promotion of cell survival.

JNK3 is abundant in insulin-secreting cells and protects against cytokine-induced apoptosis

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

In insulin-secreting cells, activation of the c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway triggers apoptosis. Whereas JNK1 and JNK2 are ubiquitously produced, JNK3 has been described exclusively in neurons. This report aims to characterise the expression and role in apoptosis of the three JNK isoforms in insulin-secreting cells exposed to cytokines.

METHODS

Sections of human and mouse pancreases were used for immunohistochemistry studies with isoform-specific anti-JNK antibodies. Human, pig, mouse and rat pancreatic islets were isolated by enzymatic digestion and RNA or protein extracts were prepared. RNA and protein levels were determined by quantitative RT-PCR and western blotting respectively, using JNK-isoform-specific primers and isoform-specific antibodies; activities of the three JNK isoforms were determined by kinase assays following quantitative immunoprecipitation/depletion of JNK3. JNK silencing was performed with small interfering RNAs and apoptotic rates were determined in INS-1E cells by scoring cells displaying pycnotic nuclei.

RESULTS

JNK3 and JNK2 mRNAs are the predominant isoforms expressed in human pancreatic islets. JNK3 is nuclear while JNK2 is also cytoplasmic. In INS-1E cells, JNK3 knockdown increases c-Jun levels and caspase-3 cleavage and sensitises cells to cytokine-induced apoptosis; in contrast, JNK1 or JNK2 knockdown is protective.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

In insulin-secreting cells, JNK3 plays an active role in preserving pancreatic beta cell mass from cytokine attacks. The specific localisation of JNK3 in the nucleus, its recruitment by cytokines, and its effects on key transcription factors such as c-Jun, indicate that JNK3 is certainly an important player in the transcriptional control of genes expressed in insulin-secreting cells.

Impact of pancreatic cold preservation on rat islet recovery and function

BACKGROUND

Islet transplantation success depends on the number and quality of islets transplanted. This study aimed at exploring the molecular mechanisms associated with cold pancreas preservation and their impact on islet cell survival and function.

METHODS

Rat pancreata were stored in cold University of Wisconsin preservation solution for short (3 hr; control) or long (18 hr) cold ischemia times (CIT).

RESULTS

Pancreata exposed to long CIT yielded lower islet numbers and showed reduced cellular viability; isolated islets displayed higher levels of phosphorylated stress-activated protein kinase (c-jun N-terminal Kinase and Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase-p38), and chemokine (C-C) ligand-3, and lower levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, interleukins (IL)-9 and IL-10. Islets obtained from long-CIT pancreata were functionally impaired after transplantation. Differential proteomic expression in pancreatic tissue after CIT included increased eukaryotic translation elongation factor-1-alpha-1 (apoptosis related) and reduced Clade-B (serine protease inhibitor).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study indicates that cold ischemia stimulates inflammatory pathways (chemokine (c-c)ligand-3, phosphorylation of c-jun N-terminal Kinase and mitogen-activated protein kinase-p38, and eukaryotic translation elongation factor-1-alpha-1) and decreases repair/cytoprotective pathways (IL-10, vascular endothelial growth factor, and Clade-B), all of which may negatively affect the quality and mass of islets obtained from a donor pancreas.

Block-copolymer micelles as carriers of cell signaling modulators for the inhibition of JNK in human islets of Langerhans

Here we investigate the potential of PCL-b-PEO micelles in preventing the cell death of isolated human islets of Langerhans. PCL-b-PEO micelles were loaded with c-Jun NH2-terminal kinases inhibitor SP600125 to rescue the isolated islets. Mechanistic studies of the uptake were conducted in PC12 cells. Incorporation of SP600125 afforded 8.2 fold greater solubility of SP600125 in micelle suspension. To investigate the effectiveness of micelle-incorporated SP600125 in preventing the islet cell death, we challenged the islets with TNF-alpha, IL-1, and IFN gamma. Micelle-incorporated SP600125 did not lose its inhibitory activity during incorporation into micelles, and it protected the islets against cytokine-induced loss of viability to the same extent as control SP600125. Moreover, the concentration of micelle-incorporated SP600125 used was 13-fold lower, demonstrating the greater efficacy of micelle delivered SP600125. Micelles maintained their cytoplasmic distribution without detectable nuclear localization in islets. The inhibition of JNK was confirmed by western blots. This study suggests that micelle-based intracellular delivery of potent, poorly water soluble, cell-death-pathway inhibitors may represent a valuable addition to established delivery of cytocidal block-copolymer micelle-incorporated bioactives.

Tracking intrahepatically transplanted islets labeled with Feridex-polyethyleneimine complex using a clinical 3.0-T magnetic resonance imaging scanner

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the images acquired with a clinical 3.0-T magnetic resonance imaging machine as the quantification of transplanted and surviving islets in vivo.

METHODS

Polyethyleneimine (PEI) was introduced to increase the labeling efficiency of Feridex, a dextran-coated superparamagnetic iron oxide. Allogeneic (Lewis-to-Wistar) and syngeneic (Wistar-to-Wistar) intraheptatic islet transplantations were performed to study the relationship among magnetic resonance imaging, metabolic monitoring, and pathological examination.

RESULTS

After receiving Feridex-PEI-labeled islets, dark voids could be observed in the livers of both groups, accompanied with a significant decrease in liver/muscle intensity ratio from 1.25 +/- 0.03 to 1.09 +/- 0.05 (P < 0.01). One week after transplantation, islet grafts were rejected in the allogeneic group. Rapid disappearance of dark voids and a significant increase of liver/muscle ratio were observed. No islet grafts could be found in the paraffin sections of livers by that time. Meanwhile, in the syngeneic group, islet grafts survived indefinitely. Dark voids persisted and low liver/muscle ratios retained. The fact that the dark voids represented the labeled islets was confirmed by combined staining of insulin activity and Prussian blue.

CONCLUSIONS

Either spot counting or signal intensity measurement provides a perfect quantification of transplanted and surviving islets in vivo. Feridex-PEI provides an effective and safe way to label islets.

c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1 is deleterious to the function and survival of murine pancreatic islets

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Inhibition of c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) favours pancreatic islet function and survival. Since two JNK isoforms are present in the pancreas (JNK1 and JNK2), we addressed their specific roles in experimental islet transplantation.

METHODS

C57BL/6J (wild-type [WT]), Jnk1 (also known as Mapk8)(-/-) and Jnk2 (also known as Mapk9)(-/-) mice were used as donor/recipients in a syngeneic islet transplantation model. Islet cell composition, function, viability, production of cytokines and of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were also studied in vitro.

RESULTS

Jnk1 ( -/- ) islets secreted more insulin in response to glucose and were more resistant to cytokine-induced cell death compared with WT and Jnk2 (-/-) islets (p < 0.01). Cytokines reduced VEGF production in WT and Jnk2 (-/-) but not Jnk1 ( -/- ) islets; VEGF blockade restored Jnk1 ( -/- ) islet susceptibility to cytokine-induced cell death. Transplantation of Jnk1 ( -/- ) or WT islets into WT recipients made diabetic had similar outcomes. However, Jnk1 ( -/- ) recipients of WT islets had shorter time to diabetes reversal (17 vs 55 days in WT, p = 0.033), while none of the Jnk2 (-/-) recipients had diabetes reversal (0% vs 71% in WT, p = 0.0003). Co-culture of WT islets with macrophages from each strain revealed a discordant cytokine production.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

We have shown a deleterious effect of JNK2 deficiency on islet graft outcome, most likely related to JNK1 activation, suggesting that specific JNK1 blockade may be superior to general JNK inhibition, particularly when administered to transplant recipients.

The role of mTOR in the adaptation and failure of beta-cells in type 2 diabetes

Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is an important nutrient sensor that plays a critical role in cellular metabolism, growth, proliferation and apoptosis and in the cellular response to oxidative stress. In addition, mTOR-raptor complex, also called mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), generates an inhibitory feedback loop on insulin receptor substrate proteins. It was suggested that nutrient overload leads to insulin/insulin-like growth factor 1 resistance in peripheral insulin-responsive tissues and in the beta-cells through sustained activation of mTORC1. In this review, we summarize the literature on the regulation and function of mTOR, its role in the organism's response to nutrients and its potential impact on lifespan, insulin resistance and the metabolic adaptation to hyperglycaemia in type 2 diabetes. We also propose a hypothesis based on data in the literature as well as data generated in our laboratory, which assigns a central positive role to mTOR in the maintenance of beta-cell function and mass in the diabetic environment.

Exendin-4 protects beta-cells from interleukin-1 beta-induced apoptosis by interfering with the c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase pathway

OBJECTIVE

The pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta) generates pancreatic beta-cells apoptosis mainly through activation of the c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway. This study was designed to investigate whether the long-acting agonist of the hormone glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor exendin-4 (ex-4), which mediates protective effects against cytokine-induced beta-cell apoptosis, could interfere with the JNK pathway.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Isolated human, rat, and mouse islets and the rat insulin-secreting INS-1E cells were incubated with ex-4 in the presence or absence of IL-1 beta. JNK activity was assessed by solid-phase JNK kinase assay and quantification of c-Jun expression. Cell apoptosis was determined by scoring cells displaying pycnotic nuclei.

RESULTS

Ex-4 inhibited induction of the JNK pathway elicited by IL-1 beta. This effect was mimicked with the use of cAMP-raising agents isobutylmethylxanthine and forskolin and required activation of the protein kinase A. Inhibition of the JNK pathway by ex-4 or IBMX and forskolin was concomitant with a rise in the levels of islet-brain 1 (IB1), a potent blocker of the stress-induced JNK pathway. In fact, ex-4 as well as IBMX and forskolin induced expression of IB1 at the promoter level through cAMP response element binding transcription factor 1. Suppression of IB1 levels with the use of RNA interference strategy impaired the protective effects of ex-4 against apoptosis induced by IL-1 beta.

CONCLUSIONS

The data establish the requirement of IB1 in the protective action of ex-4 against apoptosis elicited by IL-1 beta and highlight the GLP-1 mimetics as new potent inhibitors of the JNK signaling induced by cytokines.

Inducible nitric oxide synthase-nitric oxide plays an important role in acute and severe hypoxic injury to pancreatic beta cells

BACKGROUND

Islet transplantation is a potential strategy to cure type 1 diabetes mellitus. However, a substantial part of the islet graft becomes nonfunctional due to several factors including hypoxia. However, the precise mechanism of cell damage is largely unknown in hypoxic exposure to pancreatic beta cells. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether acute and severe hypoxic injury could involve inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)-nitric oxide (NO) signaling in beta cells.

METHODS

The rat beta cell line (INS-1) and primary rat islets were incubated in an anoxic chamber. Cell viability was determined by propium iodide staining or cell counting kit. The expression of iNOS mRNA and protein was examined using reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. NO production was measured as nitrite accumulation by Griess reagent method.

RESULTS

After hypoxic exposure, marked cell death occurred in INS-1 cells and rat islets, accompanied by increase in activated caspase-3 expression. NO production was increased in the culture medium in a time-dependent manner. Increase in expression of iNOS mRNA and protein was found. Pretreatment with a selective iNOS inhibitor, 1400W, significantly prevented cell death during hypoxia. In addition, hypoxia activated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) significantly, but the addition of 1400W inhibited hypoxia-induced JNK phosphorylation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that iNOS-NO plays an important role in acute and severe hypoxic injury to pancreatic beta cells. Therefore, iNOS-NO might be a potential therapeutic target for preserving beta cell survival in islet transplantation through prevention of hypoxia-mediated cell death.

Inhibition of c-jun N terminal kinase (JNK) improves functional beta cell mass in human islets and leads to AKT and glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) phosphorylation

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Activation of c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) has been described in islet isolation and engraftment, making JNK a key target in islet transplantation. The objective of this study was to investigate if JNK inhibition with a cell-permeable TAT peptide inhibitor (L-JNKI) protects functional beta cell mass in human islets and affects AKT and its substrates in islet cells.

METHODS

The effect of L-JNKI (10 micromol/l) on islet count, mitochondrial membrane potential, glucose-stimulated insulin release and phosphorylation of both AKT and its substrates, as well as on reversal of diabetes in immunodeficient diabetic Nu/Nu mice was studied.

RESULTS

In vitro, L-JNKI reduced the islet loss in culture and protected from cell death caused by acute cytokine exposure. In vivo, treatment of freshly isolated human islets and diabetic Nu/Nu mice recipients of such islets resulted in improved functional beta cell mass. We showed that L-JNKI activates AKT and downregulates glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3B) in human islets exposed to cytokines, while other AKT substrates were unaffected, suggesting that a specific AKT/GSK-3B regulation by L-JNKI may represent one of its mechanisms of cytoprotection.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

In conclusion, we have demonstrated that targeting JNK in human pancreatic islets results in improved functional beta cell mass and in the regulation of AKT/GSK3B activity.

Inhibitors of c-Jun N-terminal kinases: JuNK no more?

The c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNKs) have been the subject of intense interest since their discovery in the early 1990s. Major research programs have been directed to the screening and/or design of JNK-selective inhibitors and testing their potential as drugs. We begin this review by considering the first commercially-available JNK ATP-competitive inhibitor, SP600125. We focus on recent studies that have evaluated the actions of SP600125 in lung, brain, kidney and liver following exposure to a range of stress insults including ischemia/reperfusion. In many but not all cases, SP600125 administration has proved beneficial. JNK activation can also follow infection, and we next consider recent examples that demonstrate the benefits of SP600125 administration in viral infection. Additional ATP-competitive JNK inhibitors have now been described following high throughput screening of small molecule libraries, but information on their use in biological systems remains limited and thus these inhibitors will require further evaluation. Peptide substrate-competitive ATP-non-competitive inhibitors of JNK have also now been described, and we discuss the recent advances in the use of JNK inhibitory peptides in the treatment of neuronal death, diabetes and viral infection. We conclude by raising a number of questions that should be considered in the quest for JNK-specific inhibitors.

Cell-permeable peptides induce dose- and length-dependent cytotoxic effects

We have explored the threshold of tolerance of three unrelated cell types to treatments with potential cytoprotective peptides bound to Tat(48-57) and Antp(43-58) cell-permeable peptide carriers. Both Tat(48-57) and Antp(43-58) are well known for their good efficacy at crossing membranes of different cell types, their overall low toxicity, and their absence of leakage once internalised. Here, we show that concentrations of up to 100 microM of Tat(48-57) were essentially harmless in all cells tested, whereas Antp(43-58) was significantly more toxic. Moreover, all peptides bound to Tat(48-57) and Antp(43-58) triggered significant and length-dependent cytotoxicity when used at concentrations above 10 microM in all but one cell types (208F rat fibroblasts), irrespective of the sequence of the cargo. Absence of cytotoxicity in 208F fibroblasts correlated with poor intracellular peptide uptake, as monitored by confocal laser scanning fluorescence microscopy. Our data further suggest that the onset of cytotoxicity correlates with the activation of two intracellular stress signalling pathways, namely those involving JNK, and to a lesser extent p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases. These responses are of particular concern for cells that are especially sensitive to the activation of stress kinases. Collectively, these results indicate that in order to avoid unwanted and unspecific cytotoxicity, effector molecules bound to Tat(48-57) should be designed with the shortest possible sequence and the highest possible affinity for their binding partners or targets, so that concentrations below 10 microM can be successfully applied to cells without harm. Considering that cytotoxicity associated to Tat(48-57)- and Antp(43-58) bound peptide conjugates was not restricted to a particular type of cells, our data provide a general framework for the design of cell-penetrating peptides that may apply to broader uses of intracellular peptide and drug delivery.