Lipocortin-1 and the control of arachidonic acid release in cell signalling. Glucocorticoids (changed from glucorticoids) inhibit G protein-dependent activation of cPLA2 activity

Lipidomics in Understanding Pathophysiology and Pharmacologic Effects in Inflammatory Diseases: Considerations for Drug Development

The lipidome has a broad range of biological and signaling functions, including serving as a structural scaffold for membranes and initiating and resolving inflammation. To investigate the biological activity of phospholipids and their bioactive metabolites, precise analytical techniques are necessary to identify specific lipids and quantify their levels. Simultaneous quantification of a set of lipids can be achieved using high sensitivity mass spectrometry (MS) techniques, whose technological advancements have significantly improved over the last decade. This has unlocked the power of metabolomics/lipidomics allowing the dynamic characterization of metabolic systems. Lipidomics is a subset of metabolomics for multianalyte identification and quantification of endogenous lipids and their metabolites. Lipidomics-based technology has the potential to drive novel biomarker discovery and therapeutic development programs; however, appropriate standards have not been established for the field. Standardization would improve lipidomic analyses and accelerate the development of innovative therapies. This review aims to summarize considerations for lipidomic study designs including instrumentation, sample stabilization, data validation, and data analysis. In addition, this review highlights how lipidomics can be applied to biomarker discovery and drug mechanism dissection in various inflammatory diseases including cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration, lung disease, and autoimmune disease.

"Cell Membrane Theory of Senescence" and the Role of Bioactive Lipids in Aging, and Aging Associated Diseases and Their Therapeutic Implications

Lipids are an essential constituent of the cell membrane of which polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are the most important component. Activation of phospholipase A2 (PLA2) induces the release of PUFAs from the cell membrane that form precursors to both pro- and ant-inflammatory bioactive lipids that participate in several cellular processes. PUFAs GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), DGLA (dihomo-GLA), AA (arachidonic acid), EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are derived from dietary linoleic acid (LA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) by the action of desaturases whose activity declines with age. Consequently, aged cells are deficient in GLA, DGLA, AA, AA, EPA and DHA and their metabolites. LA, ALA, AA, EPA and DHA can also be obtained direct from diet and their deficiency (fatty acids) may indicate malnutrition and deficiency of several minerals, trace elements and vitamins some of which are also much needed co-factors for the normal activity of desaturases. In many instances (patients) the plasma and tissue levels of GLA, DGLA, AA, EPA and DHA are low (as seen in patients with hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus) but they do not have deficiency of other nutrients. Hence, it is reasonable to consider that the deficiency of GLA, DGLA, AA, EPA and DHA noted in these conditions are due to the decreased activity of desaturases and elongases. PUFAs stimulate SIRT1 through protein kinase A-dependent activation of SIRT1-PGC1α complex and thus, increase rates of fatty acid oxidation and prevent lipid dysregulation associated with aging. SIRT1 activation prevents aging. Of all the SIRTs, SIRT6 is critical for intermediary metabolism and genomic stability. SIRT6-deficient mice show shortened lifespan, defects in DNA repair and have a high incidence of cancer due to oncogene activation. SIRT6 overexpression lowers LDL and triglyceride level, improves glucose tolerance, and increases lifespan of mice in addition to its anti-inflammatory effects at the transcriptional level. PUFAs and their anti-inflammatory metabolites influence the activity of SIRT6 and other SIRTs and thus, bring about their actions on metabolism, inflammation, and genome maintenance. GLA, DGLA, AA, EPA and DHA and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), lipoxin A4 (LXA4) (pro- and anti-inflammatory metabolites of AA respectively) activate/suppress various SIRTs (SIRt1 SIRT2, SIRT3, SIRT4, SIRT5, SIRT6), PPAR-γ, PARP, p53, SREBP1, intracellular cAMP content, PKA activity and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1-α (PGC1-α). This implies that changes in the metabolism of bioactive lipids as a result of altered activities of desaturases, COX-2 and 5-, 12-, 15-LOX (cyclo-oxygenase and lipoxygenases respectively) may have a critical role in determining cell age and development of several aging associated diseases and genomic stability and gene and oncogene activation. Thus, methods designed to maintain homeostasis of bioactive lipids (GLA, DGLA, AA, EPA, DHA, PGE2, LXA4) may arrest aging process and associated metabolic abnormalities.

Novel Role for the AnxA1-Fpr2/ALX Signaling Axis as a Key Regulator of Platelet Function to Promote Resolution of Inflammation

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Background:

Ischemia reperfusion injury (I/RI) is a common complication of cardiovascular diseases. Resolution of detrimental I/RI-generated prothrombotic and proinflammatory responses is essential to restore homeostasis. Platelets play a crucial part in the integration of thrombosis and inflammation. Their role as participants in the resolution of thromboinflammation is underappreciated; therefore we used pharmacological and genetic approaches, coupled with murine and clinical samples, to uncover key concepts underlying this role.

Methods:

Middle cerebral artery occlusion with reperfusion was performed in wild-type or annexin A1 (AnxA1) knockout (AnxA1^−/−) mice. Fluorescence intravital microscopy was used to visualize cellular trafficking and to monitor light/dye–induced thrombosis. The mice were treated with vehicle, AnxA1 (3.3 mg/kg), WRW4 (1.8 mg/kg), or all 3, and the effect of AnxA1 was determined in vivo and in vitro.

Results:

Intravital microscopy revealed heightened platelet adherence and aggregate formation post I/RI, which were further exacerbated in AnxA1^−/− mice. AnxA1 administration regulated platelet function directly (eg, via reducing thromboxane B₂ and modulating phosphatidylserine expression) to promote cerebral protection post-I/RI and act as an effective preventative strategy for stroke by reducing platelet activation, aggregate formation, and cerebral thrombosis, a prerequisite for ischemic stroke. To translate these findings into a clinical setting, we show that AnxA1 plasma levels are reduced in human and murine stroke and that AnxA1 is able to act on human platelets, suppressing classic thrombin-induced inside-out signaling events (eg, Akt activation, intracellular calcium release, and Ras-associated protein 1 [Rap1] expression) to decrease α_IIbβ₃ activation without altering its surface expression. AnxA1 also selectively modifies cell surface determinants (eg, phosphatidylserine) to promote platelet phagocytosis by neutrophils, thereby driving active resolution. (n=5–13 mice/group or 7–10 humans/group.)

Conclusions:

AnxA1 affords protection by altering the platelet phenotype in cerebral I/RI from propathogenic to regulatory and reducing the propensity for platelets to aggregate and cause thrombosis by affecting integrin (α_IIbβ₃) activation, a previously unknown phenomenon. Thus, our data reveal a novel multifaceted role for AnxA1 to act both as a therapeutic and a prophylactic drug via its ability to promote endogenous proresolving, antithromboinflammatory circuits in cerebral I/RI. Collectively, these results further advance our knowledge and understanding in the field of platelet and resolution biology.

Multiplicity of Glucocorticoid Action in Inhibiting Allograft Rejection

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are used as immunosuppressive and antiinflammatory agents in organ transplantation and in treating autoimmune diseases and inflammatory disorders. GCs were shown to exert their antiproliferative effects directly through blockade of certain elements of an early membrane-associated signal transduction pathway, modulation of the expression of select adhesion molecules, and by suppression of cytokine synthesis and action. GCs may act indirectly by inducing lipocortin synthesis, which in turn, inhibits arachidonic acid release from membrane-bound stores, and also by inducing transforming growth factor (TGF)-β expression that subsequently blocks cytokine synthesis and T cell activation. Furthermore, by preferentially inhibiting the production of Th1 cytokines, GCs may enhance Th2 cell activity and, hence, precipitate a long-lasting state of tolerance through a preferential promotion of a Th2 cytokine-secreting profile. In exerting their antiproliferative effects, GCs influence both transcriptional and posttranscriptional events by binding their cytosolic receptor (GR), which subsequently binds the promoter region of cytokine genes on select DNA sites compatible with the GCs responsible elements (GRE) motif. In addition to direct DNA binding, GCs may also directly bind to, and hence antagonize, nuclear factors required for efficient gene expression, thereby markedly reducing transcriptional rate. The pleiotrophy of the GCs action, coupled with the diverse experimental conditions employed in assessing the GCs effects, indicate that GCs may utilize more than one mechanism in inhibiting T cell activation, and warrant careful scrutiny in assigning a mechanism by which GCs exert their antiproliferative effects. © 1998 Elsevier Science Inc.

Highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA) mediate and monitor food's impact on health

A hyperbolic, saturable, competitive dynamic of ligand binding to metabolic enzymes and lipid mediator receptors gives non-linear dose-response interactions that need careful management when planning or interpreting nutrient-based interventions. Relatively indiscriminate metabolism during accumulation of HUFA from n-3 and n-6 nutrients allows the amounts of n-3 and n-6 nutrients to determine the HUFA balance accumulated in tissue phospholipids. However, when HUFA-based eicosanoid actions are more intense with n-6 than n-3 mediators, they cause healthy physiology to shift toward pathophysiology. The proportion of n-6 in tissue HUFA directly relates to the severity of conditions caused by excessive n-6 actions. In the absence of n-3 nutrients, dietary linoleate (18:2n-6) has a very narrow therapeutic window below 1 percent of food energy, and it is widened by n-3 nutrients. The predictable quantitative dynamics of competing n-3 and n-6 nutrients allows design of successful preventive nutrition protocols that confirm and extend the epidemiologically observed benefits of n-3 nutrients.

A Mechanistic Basis for the Beneficial Effects of Caloric Restriction On Longevity and Disease: Consequences for the Interpretation of Rodent Toxicity Studies

Caloric restriction in rodents has been repeatedly shown to increase life span while reducing the severity and retarding the onset of both spontaneous and chemically induced neoplasms. These effects of caloric restriction are associated with a spectrum of biochemical and physiological changes that characterize the organism's adaptation to reduced caloric intake and provide the mechanistic basis for caloric restriction's effect on longevity. Here, we review evidence suggesting that the primary adaptation appears to be a rhythmic hypercorticism in the absence of elevated adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) levels. This characteristic hypercorticism evokes a spectrum of responses, including reduced body temperature and increased metabolic efficiency, decreased mitogenic response coupled with increased rates of apoptosis, reduced inflammatory response, reduced oxidative damage to proteins and DNA, reduced reproductive capacity, and altered drug-metabolizing enzyme expression. The net effect of these changes is to (1) decrease growth and metabolism in peripheral tissues to spare energy for central functions, and (2) increase the organism's capacity to withstand stress and chemical toxicity. Thus, caloric restriction research has uncovered an evolutionary mechanism that provides rodents with an adaptive advantage in conditions of fluctuating food supply. During periods of abundance, body growth and fecundity are favored over endurance and longevity. Conversely, during periods of famine, reproductive performance and growth are sacrificed to ensure survival of individuals to breed in better times. This phenomena can be observed in rodent populations that are used in toxicity testing. Improvements over the last 30 years in animal husbandry and nutrition, coupled with selective breeding for growth and fecundity, have resulted in several strains now exhibiting larger animals with reduced survival and increased incidence of background lesions. The mechanistic data from caloric restriction studies suggest that these large animals will also be more susceptible to chemically induced toxicity. This creates a problem in comparing tests performed on animals of different weights and comparing data generated today with the historical database. The rational use of caloric restriction to control body weight to within preset guidelines is a possible way of alleviating this problem.

An emphasis on molecular mechanisms of anti-inflammatory effects and glucocorticoid resistance

Glucocorticoids (GC) are universally accepted agents for the treatment of anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive disorders. They are used in the treatment of rheumatic diseases and various inflammatory diseases such as allergy, asthma and sepsis. They bind with GC receptor (GR) and form GC-GR complex with the receptor and exert their actions. On activation the GC-GR complex up-regulates the expression of nucleus anti-inflammatory proteins called as transactivation and down-regulates the expression of cytoplasmic pro-inflammatory proteins called as transrepression. It has been observed that transactivation mechanisms are notorious for side effects and transrepressive mechanisms are identified for beneficial anti-inflammatory effects of GC therapy. GC hampers the function of numerous inflammatory mediators such as cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules, arachidonic acid metabolites, release of platelet-activating factor (PAF), inflammatory peptides and enzyme modulation involved in the process of inflammation. The GC resistance is a serious therapeutic problem and limits the therapeutic response of GC in chronic inflammatory patients. It has been observed that the GC resistance can be attributed to cellular microenvironment changes, as a consequence of chronic inflammation. Various other factors responsible for resistance have been identified, including alterations in both GR-dependent and GR-independent signaling pathways of cytokine action, hypoxia, oxidative stress, allergen exposure and serum-derived factors. The present review enumerates various aspects of inflammation such as use of GC for treatment of inflammation and its mechanism of action. Molecular mechanisms of anti-inflammatory action of GC and GC resistance, alternative anti-inflammatory treatments and new strategy for reversing the GC resistance have also been discussed.

Mass spectrometry based quantitative proteomics and integrative network analysis accentuates modulating roles of annexin-1 in mammary tumorigenesis

Annexin-1 (ANXA1) is known to be involved in important cellular processes and implicated in cancer. Our previous study showed its roles in cell migration and DNA-damage response processes in breast cancer initiation. In order to understand its roles in tumorigenesis, we extended our studies to analyze tumors derived from polyomavirus middle T-antigen ANXA1 heterozygous (ANXA1(+/-) ) and ANXA1 null (ANXA1(-/-) ) mice. We performed quantitative comparison of ANXA1(+/-) and ANXA1(-/-) tumors employing reductive dimethyl labeling quantitative proteomics. We observed 253 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) with high statistical significance among over 5000 quantified proteins. Combinatorial use of pathway and network-based computational analyses of the DEPs revealed that ANXA1 primarily modulates processes related to cytoskeletal remodeling and immune responses in these mammary tumors. Of particular note, ANXA1(-/-) tumor showed reduced expression of a known epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) marker vimentin, as well as myosin light-chain kinase, which has been reported to induce Rho-kinase mediated assembly of stress fibers known to be implicated in EMT. Integrative network analysis of established interactome of ANXA1 alongside with DEPs further highlights the involvement of ANXA1 in EMT. Functional role of ANXA1 in tumorigenesis was established in invasion assay where knocking down ANXA1 in murine mammary tumor cell line 168FARN showed lower invasive capability. Altogether, this study emphasizes that ANXA1 plays modulating roles contributing to invasion-metastasis in mammary tumorigenesis, distinctive to its roles in cancer initiation.

The effect of lipocortin 1 on neutrophil deformability

Lipocortn 1 (Lc1) is an anti-inflammatory protein, which, given systemically, inhibits polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) emigration from the circulation to sites of inflammation; delivery of Lc1 to the inflamed site is ineffective. We have examined the effect of Lc1 on changes in PMN deformability, and observed a consistent improvement in the deformability of unstimulated PMN; N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP)-activated cell deformability was unaltered. A Lc1-induced increase in cell deformability may reduce PMN sequestration so contributing to the anti-migratory effects of systemic Lc1 previously demonstrated in vivo.

A defect in the activities of Δ and Δ desaturases and pro-resolution bioactive lipids in the pathobiology of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a low-grade systemic inflammatory condition, since liver and adipose tissue tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and TNF receptor 1 transcripts and serum TNF-α levels are increased and IL-6(-/-) mice are less prone to NAFLD. Fatty liver damage caused by high-fat diets is associated with the generation of pro-inflammatory prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)). A decrease in the levels of arachidonic acid (AA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and the usefulness of EPA and DHA both in the prevention and management of NAFLD has been reported. AA, EPA and DHA and their anti-inflammatory products lipoxins (LXs), resolvins and protectins suppress IL-6 and TNF-α and PGE(2) production. These results suggest that the activities of Δ(6) and Δ(5) desaturases are reduced in NAFLD and hence, the dietary essential fatty acids, linoleic acid (LA) and α-linolenic acid (ALA) are not metabolized to their long-chain products AA, EPA and DHA, the precursors of anti-inflammatory molecules, LXs, resolvins and protectins that could pre vent NAFLD. This suggests that an imbalance between pro- and anti-inflammatory bioactive lipids contribute to NAFLD. Hence, it is proposed that plasma and tissue levels of AA, EPA, DHA and LXs, resolvins and protectins could be used as predictors and prognostic biomarkers of NAFLD. It is suggested that the synthesis and use of more stable analogues of LXs, resolvins and protectins need to be explored in the prevention and management of NAFLD.

Lipoxins as biomarkers of lupus and other inflammatory conditions

Inflammatory events persist in systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus) despite the use of anti-inflammatory (both steroidal and non-steroidal) and immunosuppressive drugs leading to delay in the healing/repair process and so tissue/organ damage continues. The continuation of inflammation in lupus could be attributed to failure of the resolution process due to deficiency of potent endogenous pro-resolution-inducing molecules such as lipoxin A₄ (LXA₄). It is likely that progression and flares of lupus and lupus nephritis are due to decreased formation and release of LXA₄. Hence, administration of LXA₄ and its analogues could be of benefit in lupus. Furthermore, plasma and urinary measurement of lipoxins may be used to predict prognosis and response to therapy. It is likely that lipoxins and other bioactive anti-inflammatory lipids such as resolvins, protectins, maresins and nitrolipids play a significant role in other auto-immune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes mellitus and multiple sclerosis and hence, could be of significant benefit in these diseases.

Current and emerging strategies for the treatment and management of systemic lupus erythematosus based on molecular signatures of acute and chronic inflammation

Lupus is a chronic, systemic inflammatory condition in which eicosanoids, cytokines, nitric oxide (NO), a deranged immune system, and genetics play a significant role. Our studies revealed that an imbalance in the pro- and antioxidants and NO and an alteration in the metabolism of essential fatty acids exist in lupus. The current strategy of management includes administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as hydroxychloroquine and immunosuppressive drugs such as corticosteroids. Investigational drugs include the following: 1) belimumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody that specifically recognizes and inhibits the biological activity of B-lymphocyte stimulator, also known as B-cell-activation factor of the TNF family; 2) stem cell transplantation; 3) rituximab, a chimeric monoclonal antibody against CD20, which is primarily found on the surface of B-cells and can therefore destroy B-cells; and 4) IL-27, which has potent anti-inflammatory actions. Our studies showed that a regimen of corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide, and methods designed to enhance endothelial NO synthesis and augment antioxidant defenses, led to induction of long-lasting remission of the disease. These results suggest that methods designed to modulate molecular signatures of the disease process and suppress inflammation could be of significant benefit in lupus. Some of these strategies could be vagal nerve stimulation, glucose-insulin infusion, and administration of lipoxins, resolvins, protectins, and nitrolipids by themselves or their stable synthetic analogs that are known to suppress inflammation and help in the resolution and healing of the inflammation-induced damage. These strategies are likely to be useful not only in lupus but also in other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, ischemia-reperfusion injury to the myocardium, ischemic heart disease, and sepsis.

Minireview: role of kinases and chromatin remodeling in progesterone signaling to chromatin

Steroid hormones regulate gene expression by interaction of their receptors with hormone-responsive elements on DNA or with other transcription factors, but they can also activate cytoplasmic signaling cascades. Rapid activation of Erk by progestins via an interaction of the progesterone receptor (PR) with the estrogen receptor is critical for transcriptional activation of the mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) promoter and other progesterone target genes. Erk activation leads to the phosphorylation of PR, activation of mitogen- and stress-activated protein kinase 1, and the recruitment of a complex of the three activated proteins and of P300/CBP-associated factor (PCAF) to a single nucleosome, resulting in the phosphoacetylation of histone H3 and the displacement of heterochromatin protein 1γ. Hormone-dependent gene expression requires ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling complexes. Two switch/sucrose nonfermentable-like complexes, Brahma-related gene 1-associated factor (BAF) and polybromo-BAF are present in breast cancer cells, but only BAF is recruited to the MMTV promoter and cooperates with PCAF during activation of hormone-responsive promoters. PCAF acetylates histone H3 at K14, an epigenetic mark recognized by BAF subunits, thus anchoring the complex to chromatin. BAF catalyzes localized displacement of histones H2A and H2B, facilitating access of nuclear factor 1 and additional PR complexes to the hidden hormone-responsive elements on the MMTV promoter. The linker histone H1 is a structural component of chromatin generally regarded as a general repressor of transcription. However, it contributes to a better regulation of the MMTV promoter by favoring a more homogeneous nucleosome positioning, thus reducing basal transcription and actually enhancing hormone induced transcription. During transcriptional activation, H1 is phosphorylated and displaced from the promoter. The kinase cyclin-dependent kinase 2 is activated after progesterone treatment and could catalyze progesterone-induced phosphorylation of histone H1 by chromatin remodeling complexes. The initial steps of gene induction by progestins involve changes in the chromatin organization of target promoters that require the activation of several kinase signaling pathways initiated by membrane anchored PR. Because these pathways also respond to other external signals, they serve to integrate the hormonal response in the global context of the cellular environment.

Annexin-I overexpression is associated with tumour progression and independently predicts inferior disease-specific and metastasis-free survival in urinary bladder urothelial carcinoma

AIMS

In our previous studies, comparative proteomics and immunohistochemistry (IHC) demonstrated that annexin-I (ANXA1) is up-regulated in high grade urinary bladder urothelial carcinoma (UBUC) as compared to non-high grade carcinomas. However, the small sample size prohibited further correlation of ANXA1 expression to tumour progression. Therefore, in the present study, 81 primary localised UBUC specimens of various grades and primary tumour (pT) status were examined for ANXA1 expression to further confirm the proteomics data and to clarify the relevance of ANXA1 expression level to the prognosis of UBUC.

METHODS

IHC was implemented to investigate ANXA1 protein expression in 81 primary localised UBUC specimens. The association of ANXA1 expression with tumour progression and prognosis was analysed.

RESULTS

Our data demonstrated that the ANXA1 expression level was strongly associated with an escalated pT status (p < 0.001) and a higher histological grade (p < 0.001), suggesting that ANXA1 might be related to tumour progression. Moreover, at the univariate level, ANXA1 overexpression, along with higher pT status and histological grade, significantly predicted disease-specific survival (DSS) and metastasis-free survival (MFS). More importantly, multivariate analyses revealed that the association of ANXA1 overexpression and prognosis remained significant for both DSS and MFS.

CONCLUSION

The above results reinforced the comparative proteomics results and confirmed the prognostic role of ANXA1 in UBUC.

Glucocorticoid-regulated crosstalk between arachidonic acid and endocannabinoid biochemical pathways coordinates cognitive-, neuroimmune-, and energy homeostasis-related adaptations to stress

Arachidonic acid and its derivatives constitute the major group of signaling molecules involved in the innate immune response and its communication with all cellular and systemic aspects involved on homeostasis maintenance. Glucocorticoids spread throughout the organism their influences over key enzymatic steps of the arachidonic acid biochemical pathways, leading, in the central nervous system, to a shift favoring the synthesis of anti-inflammatory endocannabinoids over proinflammatory metabolites, such as prostaglandins. This shift modifies local immune-inflammatory response and neuronal activity to ultimately coordinate cognitive, behavioral, neuroendocrine, neuroimmune, physiological, and metabolic adjustments to basal and stress conditions. In the hypothalamus, a reciprocal feedback between glucocorticoids and arachidonate-containing molecules provides a mechanism for homeostatic control. This neurochemical switch is susceptible to fine-tuning by neuropeptides, cytokines, and hormones, such as leptin and interleukin-1beta, assuring functional integration between energy homeostasis control and the immune/stress response.

Glucocorticoids shift arachidonic acid metabolism toward endocannabinoid synthesis: a non-genomic anti-inflammatory switch

Glucocorticoids are capable of exerting both genomic and non-genomic actions in target cells of multiple tissues, including the brain, which trigger an array of electrophysiological, metabolic, secretory and inflammatory regulatory responses. Here, we have attempted to show how glucocorticoids may generate a rapid anti-inflammatory response by promoting arachidonic acid-containing endocannabinoids biosynthesis. According to our hypothesized model, non-genomic action of glucocorticoids results in the global shift of membrane lipid metabolism, subverting metabolic pathways toward the synthesis of the anti-inflammatory endocannabinoids, anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl-glycerol (2-AG), and away from arachidonic acid production. Post-transcriptional inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX(2)) synthesis by glucocorticoids assists this mechanism by suppressing the synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins as well as endocannabinoid-derived prostanoids. In the central nervous system (CNS) this may represent a major neuroprotective system, which may cross-talk with leptin signaling in the hypothalamus allowing for the coordination between energy homeostasis and the inflammatory response.

Coagulation Activation by Lipopolysaccharides

Lipopolysaccharides at approximate plasma reactivities >3 ng/mL or β-glucans at >0.5-1 μg/mL are toxic for human blood; lipopolysaccharide interacts with membrane components of susceptible cells (eg, monocytes) activating phospholipase A2that destroys the cell membrane. Cell fragments (microparticles or DNA) possess polynegative niches that activate intrinsic hemostasis. Pathologic disseminated intravascular coagulation arises. Blood vessels are obstructed by disseminated thrombi, and vital organ areas become ischemic. Multiorgan failure threatens life of the patient. Diagnosis and therapy of pathologic disseminated intravascular coagulation is of extreme clinical importance. For early diagnosis of pathologic disseminated intravascular coagulation, specific activation markers of coagulation (eg, plasmatic amidolytic thrombin activity) or the plasmatic lipopolysaccharide or glucan reactivity can be measured. A new treatment target might be kallikrein or factor XIIa; 10 to 20 mM arginine is the approximate 50% inhibitory concentration against the contact phase of coagulation. The complex interaction between cell fragments and hemostasis causes pathologic disseminated intravascular coagulation in sepsis.

cPGES/p23 is required for glucocorticoid receptor function and embryonic growth but not prostaglandin E2 synthesis

A number of studies have identified cytosolic prostaglandin E(2) synthase (cPGES)/p23 as a cytoplasmic protein capable of metabolism of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) from the cyclooxygenase metabolite prostaglandin endoperoxide (PGH(2)). However, this protein has also been implicated in a number of other pathways, including stabilization of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) complex. To define the importance of the functions assigned to this protein, mice lacking detectible cPGES/p23 expression were generated. cPGES/p23(-/-) pups die during the perinatal period and display retarded lung development reminiscent of the phenotype of GR-deficient neonates. Furthermore, GR-sensitive gluconeogenic enzymes are not induced in the prenatal period. However, unlike GR-deficient embryos, cPGES/p23(-/-) embryos are small and a proliferation defect is observed in cPGES/p23(-/-) fibroblasts. Analysis of arachidonic acid metabolites in embryonic tissues and primary fibroblasts failed to support a function for this protein in PGE(2) biosynthesis. Thus, while the growth retardation of the cPGES/p23(-/-) pups and decreased proliferation of primary fibroblasts identify functions for this protein in addition to GR stabilization, it is unlikely that these functions include metabolism of PGH(2) to PGE(2).

Annexin 1: the new face of an old molecule

The annexin superfamily consists of 13 calcium or calcium and phospholipid binding proteins with a significant degree of biological and structural homology (40-60%). First described in the late 1970s and subsequently referred to as macrocortin, renocortin, lipomodulin, lipocortin-1, and more recently Annexin 1, this 37 kDa calcium and phospholipid binding protein is a strong inhibitor of glucocorticoid-induced eicosanoid synthesis and PLA2. Recent interest in the biological activity of this intriguing molecule has unraveled important functional attributes of Annexin 1 in a variety of inflammatory pathways, on cell proliferation machinery, in the regulation of cell death signaling, in phagocytic clearance of apoptosing cells, and most importantly in the process of carcinogenesis. Here we attempt to present a short review on these diverse biological activities of an interesting and important molecule, which could be a potential target for novel therapeutic intervention in a host of disease states.

Decreased prostaglandin E2 production by inflammatory cytokine and lower expression of EP2 receptor result in increased collagen synthesis in keloid fibroblasts

We investigated the metabolism of arachidonic acid in normal skin-derived fibroblasts (NF) as well as in keloid-derived fibroblasts (KF) in response to macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), a pluripotent cytokine. We found that MIF enhanced cyclooxygenase-2 activity in NF more than in KF. Consistent with this finding, prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), an antifibrogenic molecule, was more significantly increased in NF than in KF by MIF treatment. As regarding E prostanoid receptor 2, the level of expression was significantly lower in KF than in NF. On the other hand, Forskolin, a direct activator of adenylcyclase, decreased collagen synthesis in both NF and KF, which indicates that cAMP plays an important role in regulating collagen synthesis. As PGE(2) induces cAMP production, it is conceivable that increased collagen synthesis in KF might be owing to decreased PGE(2) and cAMP production. These findings may aid in the development of a therapeutic strategy for the regulation of collagen synthesis in keloid fibroblasts.

Non-genomic glucocorticoid effects to provide the basis for new drug developments

Glucocorticoids act via genomic and non-genomic actions. The genomic glucocorticoid actions are well known and new details on processes of transactivation and transrepression have been reported recently. Here we describe the current knowledge on non-genomic glucocorticoid actions and discuss why these actions are considered to be of therapeutic relevance. It is assumed that rapid non-genomic glucocorticoid effects are mediated by three different mechanisms: (1) physicochemical interactions with cellular membranes (non-specific non-genomic effects); (2) membrane-bound glucocorticoid receptor (mGCR)-mediated non-genomic effects; and (3) cytosolic glucocorticoid receptor (cGCR)-mediated non-genomic effects. With regard to the first mechanism, we discuss here lazaroids and the novel development of drug targeting with liposomes as the carrier system for glucocorticoids. The clinical use of the latter two mechanisms is still speculative, but intriguing ideas are being discussed in this regard.

Scalaradial Inhibition of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Mediated Akt Phosphorylation Is Independent of Secretory Phospholipase A2

The marine natural product 12-epi-scalaradial (SLD) is a specific secretory phospholipase A(2) (sPLA(2)) inhibitor. However, little is known about whether this compound has other pharmacological effects. Here, we revealed a novel effect of SLD on epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mediated Akt phosphorylation. SLD dose- and time-dependently inhibited epidermal growth factor (EGF)-stimulated Akt phosphorylation, which is required for Akt activation. SLD also blocked the EGF-stimulated membrane translocation of 3-phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase 1 and inhibited phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activity. This inhibition is specific for SLD because other phospholipase inhibitors, including sPLA(2) inhibitor thioetheramide-phosphatidylcholine, cytosolic PLA(2) inhibitor arachidonyl trifluoromethyl ketone, cytosolic PLA(2) and Ca(2+)-independent PLA(2) inhibitor methyl arachidonyl fluorophosphonate, phospholipase C inhibitor U73122, and cyclooxygenases inhibitor indomethacin, failed to inhibit EGF-stimulated Akt phosphorylation. Furthermore, arachidonic acid, the main sPLA(2)-catalyzed metabolite, was not able to rescue SLD inhibition of EGF-stimulated Akt phosphorylation. Overexpression of group IIA or group X sPLA(2) did not reverse the inhibitory effect of SLD on Akt phosphorylation, either. Our results demonstrate that SLD inhibits EGFR-mediated Akt phosphorylation, and this novel effect of SLD is independent of sPLA(2).

A novel role for phospholipase A2 isoforms in the checkpoint control of acute inflammation

Acute inflammation can be considered in terms of a series of checkpoints where each phase of cellular influx, persistence, and clearance is controlled by endogenous stop and go signals. It is becoming increasingly apparent that in addition to initiating the inflammatory response, eicosanoids may also mediate resolution. This suggests there are two phases of arachidonic acid release: one at onset for the generation of proinflammatory eicosanoids and one at resolution for the synthesis of proresolving eicosanoids. What is unclear is the identity of the phospholipase (PLA2) isoforms involved in this biphasic release of arachidonic acid. We show here that type VI iPLA2 drives the onset of acute pleurisy through the synthesis of PGE2, LTB4, PAF, and IL-1beta. However, during resolution there is a switch to a sequential induction of first sPLA2 (types IIa and V) that mediates the release of PAF and lipoxin A4, which, in turn, are responsible for the subsequent induction of type IV cPLA2 that mediates the release of arachidonic acid for the synthesis of proresolving prostaglandins. This study is the first of its kind to address the respective roles of PLA2 isoforms in acute resolving inflammation and to identify type VI iPLA2 as a potentially selective target for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

A prospective analysis of oxidative stress and liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress (OS) is a potential mechanism of injury in many deleterious complications of orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). Therefore, we evaluated OS prospectively in a cohort of 50 adult patients before, during, and after OLT.

METHODS

Urine, collected preoperatively, perioperatively, and at intervals for the first postoperative year, was analyzed for dinor-dihydro-isoprostane F2alpha-III (dinor-dihydro iPF2alpha-III), a well-characterized in vivo indicator of OS. Clinical events were extracted from the clinical records.

RESULTS

One-year patient and graft survival were 86% and 80%, respectively. There were nine episodes of acute cellular rejection (ACR). Twenty patients each experienced at least one adverse event. Pretransplantation urinary dinor-dihydro iPF2alpha-III levels were elevated, compared to healthy volunteers, and rose significantly following reperfusion of the grafted liver. Levels fell sharply following OLT but never reached those of control subjects. Urinary dinor-dihydro iPF2alpha-III levels steadily increased thereafter, reaching preoperative levels within 12 months of transplantation. There was no significant difference in dinor-dihydro iPF2alpha-III excretion, with respect to hepatitis C virus (HCV) status, the development of ACR, or the presence or absence of a composite of predesignated adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

OLT recipients exhibit enhanced lipid peroxidation in vivo, which is augmented during intra-operative liver reperfusion. Although OS declines following OLT, it redevelops gradually, albeit without association with clinical events such as acute cellular rejection, organ failure, or infection of the allograft by HCV. We conclude that OS increases in the first year after liver transplantation, in a time-dependent fashion, but independent of clinical events affecting the allograft.

Rapid actions of steroid receptors in cellular signaling pathways

Steroid hormones regulate cellular processes by binding to intracellular receptors that, in turn, interact with discrete nucleotide sequences to alter gene expression. Because most steroid receptors in target cells are located in the cytoplasm, they need to get into the nucleus to alter gene expression. This process typically takes at least 30 to 60 minutes. In contrast, other regulatory actions of steroid hormones are manifested within seconds to a few minutes. These time periods are far too rapid to be due to changes at the genomic level and are therefore termed nongenomic or rapid actions, to distinguish them from the classical steroid hormone action of regulation of gene expression. The rapid effects of steroid hormones are manifold, ranging from activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), adenylyl cyclase (AC), protein kinase C (PKC), and heterotrimeric guanosine triphosphate-binding proteins (G proteins). In some cases, these rapid actions of steroids are mediated through the classical steroid receptor that can also function as a ligand-activated transcription factor, whereas in other instances the evidence suggests that these rapid actions do not involve the classical steroid receptors. One candidate target for the nonclassical receptor-mediated effects are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), which activate several signal transduction pathways. One characteristic of responses that are not mediated by the classical steroid receptors is insensitivity to steroid antagonists, which has contributed to the notion that a new class of steroid receptors may be responsible for part of the rapid action of steroids. Evidence suggests that the classical steroid receptors can be localized at the plasma membrane, where they may trigger a chain of reactions previously attributed only to growth factors. Identification of interaction domains on the classical steroid receptors involved in the rapid effects, and separation of this function from the genomic action of these receptors, should pave the way to a better understanding of the rapid action of steroid hormones.

Different glucocorticoids vary in their genomic and non-genomic mechanism of action in A549 cells

We have examined the effects of 12 glucocorticoids as inhibitors of A549 cell growth. Other than cortisone and prednisone, all the glucocorticoids inhibited cell growth and this was strongly correlated (r=0.91) with inhibition of prostaglandin (PG)E(2) formation. The molecular mechanism by which the active steroids prevented PGE(2) synthesis was examined and three groups were identified. Group A drugs did not inhibit arachidonic acid release but inhibited the induction of COX2. Group B drugs were not able to inhibit the induction of COX2 but inhibited arachidonic acid release through suppression of cPLA(2) activation. Group C drugs were apparently able to bring about both effects. The inhibitory actions of all steroids was dependent upon glucocorticoid receptor occupation since RU486 reversed their effects. However, group A acted through the NF-kappaB pathway to inhibit COX2 as the response was blocked by the inhibitor geldanamycin which prevents dissociation of GR and the effect was blocked by APDC, the NF-kappaB inhibitor. On the other hand, the group B drugs were not inhibited by NF-kappaB inhibitors or geldanamycin but their effect was abolished by the src inhibitor PP2. Group C drugs depended on both pathways. In terms of PGE(2) generation, there is clear evidence of two entirely separate mechanisms of glucocorticoid action, one of which correlates with NF-kappaB mediated genomic actions whilst the other, depends upon rapid effects on a cell signalling system which does not require dissociation of GR. The implications for these findings are discussed.

Non-genomic effects of glucocorticoids in the neural system. Evidence, mechanisms and implications

Complementing the classical concept of genomic steroid actions, here we (i) review evidence showing that important neural effects of glucocorticoids are exerted by non-genomic mechanisms; (ii) describe known mechanisms that may underlie such effects; (iii) summarize the functions and implications of non-genomic mechanisms and (iv) outline future directions of research. The role of non-genomic mechanisms is to shape the response of the organism to challenges that require a substantial reorganization of neural and somatic functions and involve massive behavioral shifts. Non-genomic effects may (i) prepare the cell for subsequent glucocorticoid-induced genomic changes, (ii) bridge the gap between the early need of change and the delay in the expression of genomic effects and (iii) may induce specific changes that in some instances are opposite to those induced by genomic mechanisms. The latter can be explained by the fact that challenging situations require different responses in early (acute) and later (chronic) phases. Data show that non-genomic mechanisms of glucocorticoid action play a role in both pathological phenomena and the expression of ameliorative pharmacological effects. Non-genomic mechanisms that underlie many glucocorticoid-induced neural changes constitute a for long overlooked controlling factor. Despite the multitude and the variety of accumulated data, important questions remain to be answered.

Regulation of synoviocyte phospholipase A2 and cyclooxygenase 2 by macrophage migration inhibitory factor

OBJECTIVE

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a proinflammatory cytokine with known actions in macrophage and T cell activation. MIF also has the unique capacity to reverse the inhibitory effects of glucocorticoids on these cells. We have recently demonstrated MIF expression in human rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovium and cultured fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS), as well as the ability of FLS-derived MIF to induce monocyte release of tumor necrosis factor alpha. We investigated the effects of MIF on aspects of RA FLS activation, including the induction of phospholipase A2 (PLA2) and cyclooxygenase (COX).

METHODS

PLA2 activity was measured by 3H-arachidonic acid released from treated FLS supernatants. COX activity was measured by prostaglandin E2 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cytosolic PLA2 (cPLA2) and COX-2 messenger RNA (mRNA) were determined using semiquantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Constitutive PLA2 activity was detected in RA FLS. Recombinant human MIF up-regulated PLA2 activity (P < 0.01) and cPLA2 mRNA expression, but had no effect on secretory PLA2. Recombinant human MIF up-regulated COX activity (P < 0.05) and COX-2 mRNA, but had no observable effect on COX-1. Interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) significantly up-regulated PLA2 activity (P < 0.005) and cPLA2 mRNA expression while anti-MIF monoclonal antibody (mAb) significantly inhibited this IL-1beta-induced PLA2 activity (P < 0.02). Anti-MIF mAb significantly reduced IL-1beta-induced COX activity (P < 0.05) and COX-2 mRNA expression.

CONCLUSION

MIF exerts a proinflammatory effect on key aspects of RA FLS activation. That anti-MIF mAb inhibited IL-1beta up-regulation of FLS indicates an additional cofactor role for MIF in IL-1beta-induced FLS activation. These data suggest that MIF antagonism has important therapeutic potential in RA.

Annexin I surface binding sites and their regulation on human fibroblast-like synoviocytes

OBJECTIVE

Annexin I is a glucocorticoid-inducible protein whose expression in rheumatoid synovium and inhibitory actions in animal models of arthritis suggests its involvement in human arthritis. The present study explored the potential for annexin I to mediate its antiinflammatory actions via specific cell-surface binding sites on human fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS).

METHODS

Annexin I binding sites on cultured FLS from patients with osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were determined by ligand-binding flow cytometry. Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity was determined by arachidonic acid release.

RESULTS

FLS exhibited saturable, concentration-dependent cell-surface annexin I binding, with >99% of the OA FLS exhibiting binding at an annexin I concentration of 10 microM. Annexin I binding of RA FLS was significantly lower than that of OA FLS. FLS annexin I binding sites were not affected by elastase or a specific elastase inhibitor, and elastase release did not differ between RA and OA cells. In contrast, collagenase significantly increased annexin I binding sites on OA FLS and approached a significant effect on RA FLS. Tumor necrosis factor alpha increased annexin I binding sites on OA and RA FLS. Similarly, interleukin-1beta significantly increased annexin I binding on OA FLS; but the increased binding on RA FLS was not significant. Dexamethasone exerted no significant effect on OA or RA FLS annexin I binding sites. Treatment of RA FLS with an annexin I N-terminal peptide significantly inhibited RA FLS PLA2 activity.

CONCLUSION

This is the first description of the expression, regulation, and function of cell surface annexin I binding sites on FLS. Reduced annexin I binding sites in RA FLS may impair the sensitivity of certain proinflammatory events to glucocorticoids.

Investigation into the involvement of phospholipases A(2) and MAP kinases in modulation of AA release and cell growth in A549 cells

1. We have investigated the contribution of specific PLA(2)s to eicosanoid release from A549 cells by using specific inhibitors of secretory PLA(2) (ONO-RS-82 and oleyloxyethylphosphocholine), cytosolic PLA(2) (AACOCF(3) and MAFP) and calcium-independent PLA(2) (HELSS, MAFP and PACOCF(3)). Similarly, by using specific inhibitors of p38 MAPK (SB 203580), ERK1/2 MAPK (Apigenin) and MEK1/2 (PD 98059) we have further evaluated potential pathways of AA release in this cell line. 2. ONO-RS-82 and oleyloxyethylphosphocholine had no significant effect on EGF or IL-1beta stimulated (3)H-AA or PGE(2) release or cell proliferation. AACOCF(3), HELSS, MAFP and PACOCF(3) significantly inhibited both EGF and IL-1beta stimulated (3)H-AA and PGE(2) release as well as cell proliferation. Apigenin and PD 98509 significantly inhibited both EGF and IL-1beta stimulated (3)H-AA and PGE(2) release and cell proliferation whereas, SB 203580 had no significant effect on EGF or IL-1beta stimulated (3)H-AA release, or cell proliferation but significantly suppressed EGF or IL-1beta stimulated PGE(2) release. 3. These results confirm that the liberation of AA release, generation of PGE(2) and cell proliferation is mediated largely through the actions of cPLA(2) whereas, sPLA(2) plays no significant role. We now also report a hitherto unsuspected contribution of iPLA(2) to this process and demonstrate that the stimulating action of EGF and IL-1beta in AA release and cell proliferation is mediated in part via a MEK and ERK-dependent pathway (but not through p38MAPK). We therefore propose that selective inhibitors of MEK and MAPK pathways may be useful in controlling AA release, eicosanoid production and cell proliferation.

Glucocorticoids act within minutes to inhibit recruitment of signalling factors to activated EGF receptors through a receptor-dependent, transcription-independent mechanism

Recruitment to activated tyrosine kinase growth factor receptors of Grb2 and p21(ras) leads to downstream activation of the kinases Raf, MAPK/Erk kinase (Mek) and, subsequently, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk). Activated Erk phosphorylates specific serine residues within cytosolic phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)), promoting enzyme translocation to membranes and facilitating liberation of arachidonic acid (AA). In the A549 human adenocarcinoma cell line dexamethasone inhibited epidermal growth factor (EGF)-stimulated cytosolic PLA(2) (cPLA(2)) activation and AA release by blocking the recruitment of Grb2 to the activated EGF receptor (EGF-R) through a glucocorticoid receptor (GR)-dependent (RU486-sensitive), transcription-independent (actinomycin-insensitive), mechanism. The dexamethasone-induced block of Grb2 recruitment was parallelled by changes in phosphorylation status and subcellular localization of lipocortin 1 (LC1) and an increase in the amount of the tyrosine phosphoprotein co-localized with EGF-R. Like dexamethasone, peptides containing E-Q-E-Y-V from the N-terminal domain of LC1 also blocked ligand-induced association of Grb2, p21(ras) and Raf. Our results point to an unsuspected rapid effect of glucocorticoids, mediated by occupation of GR but not by changes in gene transcription, which is brought about by competition between LC1 and Grb2 leading to a failure of recruitment off signalling factors to EGF-R

Annexin I and dexamethasone effects on phospholipase and cyclooxygenase activity in human synoviocytes

Annexin I is a glucocorticoid-induced mediator with anti-inflammatory activity in animal models of arthritis. We studied the effects of a bioactive annexin I peptide, ac 2-26, dexamethasone (DEX), and interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) on phospholipase A2 (PLA2) and cyclooxygenase (COX) activities and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) release in cultured human fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS). Annexin I binding sites on human osteoarthritic (OA) FLS were detected by ligand binding flow cytometry. PLA2 activity was measured using 3H-arachidonic acid release, PGE2 release and COX activity by ELISA, and COX2 content by flow cytometry. Annexin I binding sites were present on human OA FLS. Annexin I peptide ac 2-26 exerted a significant concentration-dependent inhibition of FLS constitutive PLA2 activity, which was reversed by IL-1beta. In contrast, DEX inhibited IL-1beta-induced PLA2 activity but not constitutive activity. DEX but not annexin I peptide inhibited IL-1beta-induced PGE2 release. COX activity and COX2 expression were significantly increased by IL-1beta. Annexin I peptide demonstrated no inhibition of constitutive or IL-1beta-induced COX activity. DEX exerted a concentration-dependent inhibition of IL-1beta-induced but not constitutive COX activity. Uncoupling of inhibition of PLA2 and COX by annexin I and DEX support the hypothesis that COX is rate-limiting for PGE2 synthesis in FLS. The effect of annexin I but not DEX on constitutive PLA2 activity suggests a glucocorticoid-independent role for annexin I in autoregulation of arachidonic acid production. The lack of effect of annexin I on cytokine-induced PGE2 production suggests PGE2-independent mechanisms for the anti-inflammatory effects of annexin I in vivo.

Annexin I modulates cell functions by controlling intracellular calcium release

Annexin I is an intracellular protein in search of a function. Ex vivo it has calcium- and phospholipid-binding properties. To evaluate its role in vivo, MCF-7 cells were stably transfected with annexin I in sense or antisense orientations. In cells overexpressing annexin I, calcium release was abrogated on stimulation of purinergic or bradykinin receptors, whereas non-transfected cells or cells with down-regulated annexin I released calcium within seconds. Basal calcium and calcium stores were not affected. The impaired calcium release was paralleled by a down-regulation of the activities of phospholipase C, group II phospholipase A2, and E-cadherin with altered adhesion and enhanced tumor growth on soft agar. Significantly smaller tumors, with the histologically most differentiated cells, were observed in nude mice inoculated with cells transfected with the antisense rather than with the sense plasmid. These observations indicate that annexin I modulates cell functions by controlling intracellular calcium release. Frey, B. M., Reber, B. F. X., Vishwanath, B. S., Escher, G., Frey, F. J. Annexin I modulates cell functions by controlling intracellular calcium release.

An alternate mechanism of glucocorticoid anti-proliferative effect: promotion of a Th2 cytokine-secreting profile

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are used as immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory agents in organ transplantation and in treating autoimmune diseases and inflammatory disorders and they exert their effects by several mechanisms, the most significant of which is inhibition of cytokine production and action. Recent reports suggested that GCs inhibit cytokine expression indirectly through promotion of a T helper cell type 2 (Th2) cytokine-secreting profile, thereby resulting in preferential blockade of pro-inflammatory monokine and T helper cell type 1 (Th1) cytokine expression. The target of GCs appeared to be monocytes macrophages, whereby altered regulation of interleukin (IL)-1/IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra), coupled with profound blockade of IL-12 synthesis and inhibition of interferon (IFN)-gamma-induced major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II expression, lead to a preferential cognate stimulation of Th2 cells at the expense of Th1 cells. It is possible that this may have involved the expansion of a Th2-cell pool or, in addition, frank stimulation of uncommitted naive CD4 + T cells toward the Th2 lineage. In addition, GCs may have blocked Th1 cytokine expression, thereby inhibiting ongoing Th1 cytokine secretion, and consequently provided for the unimpeded production of Th2 cytokines. Collectively, this indicates that, in exerting their anti-proliferative effects, GCs act indirectly by altering Th1/Th2 cytokine balance, blocking the (pro-inflammatory) Th1 program and favoring the (anti-inflammatory) Th2 program.

Potentiating effects of hyper-osmolality and epidermal growth factor on the release of arachidonic acid in human glomerular mesangial cells

Studies were performed to determine the interactive effects of high concentrations of glucose (HG) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) on the release of arachidonic acid (3H-AA) in human glomerular mesangial cells (MC) in culture. Since high glucose has been reported to increase the mass of diacylglycerol (DAG) in MC, the HG-induced release of 3H-AA was compared to that initiated by the phorbol ester, PMA. It was found that when media contained high levels (25 mM) of glucose, the release of 3H-AA was increased significantly by 8.4% (change from control) after 1 h of exposure and was maintained at values not significantly different from this level for the next 2 h. After 3-h exposure, there was no significant difference between 25 and 50 mM glucose, suggesting that the effects of glucose are saturating at 25 mM. After 1-h exposure, 3H-AA release was also increased by PMA; however, the increase was larger and the peak increase was delayed until after 1 h. 3H-AA release was significantly increased by epidermal growth factor (EGF) by 8.5% after 1 h and was maintained at this level after 2 and 3 h of exposure. In the presence of HG, EGF increased 3H-AA release by 24.6% after the 1st hour and by 20.4 and 19.4%, after the 2nd and 3rd hours, respectively. Mannitol (20 mM), added as an osmotic control, increased 3H-AA release by 6.2% and also significantly enhanced the effects of EGF after 3 h. The experimental values (19.0%) for the release of 3H-AA after 3-h exposure to EGF in combination with either high glucose or mannitol were significantly greater than the expected (added) values (12.1%). These results demonstrate that as a result of an elevated solution osmolality, high glucose acts synergistically with EGF to increase the release of 3H-AA in human mesangial cells.