A selective inhibitor of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase, N-[2-bromocinnamyl(amino)ethyl]-5-isoquinolinesulfonamide (H-89), inhibits phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis in HeLa cells

Sulfuretin exerts diversified functions in the processing of amyloid precursor protein

Sulfuretin is a flavonoid that protects cell from damage induced by reactive oxygen species and inflammation. In this study, we investigated the role of sulfuretin in the processing of amyloid precursor protein (APP), in association with the two catalytic enzymes the α-secretase a disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM10), and the beta-site APP cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) that play important roles in the generation of β amyloid protein (Aβ) in Alzheimer's disease (AD). We found that sulfuretin increased the levels of the immature but not the mature form of ADAM10 protein. The enhanced ADAM10 transcription by sulfuretin was mediated by the nucleotides −444 to −300 in the promoter region, and was attenuated by silencing or mutation of transcription factor retinoid X receptor (RXR) and by GW6471, a specific inhibitor of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPAR-α). We further found that sulfuretin preferentially increased protein levels of the immature form of APP (im-APP) but significantly reduced those of BACE1, sAPPβ and β-CTF, whereas Aβ1-42 levels were slightly increased. Finally, the effect of sulfuretin on BACE1 and im-APP was selectively attenuated by the translation inhibitor cycloheximide and by lysosomal inhibitor chloroquine, respectively. Taken together, (1) RXR/PPAR-α signaling was involved in sulfuretin-mediated ADAM10 transcription. (2) Alteration of Aβ protein level by sulfuretin was not consistent with that of ADAM10 and BACE1 protein levels, but was consistent with the elevated level of im-APP protein, suggesting that im-APP, an isoform mainly localized to trans-Golgi network, plays an important role in Aβ generation.

Assessment of PKA and PKC inhibitors on force and kinetics of non-failing and failing human myocardium

AIMS

Heart failure (HF) is a prevalent disease that is considered the foremost reason for hospitalization in the United States. Most protein kinases (PK) are activated in heart disease and their inhibition has been shown to improve cardiac function in both animal and human studies. However, little is known about the direct impact of PKA and PKC inhibitors on human cardiac contractile function.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We investigated the ex vivo effect of such inhibitors on force as well as on kinetics of left ventricular (LV) trabeculae dissected from non-failing and failing human hearts. In these experiments, we applied 0.5 μM of H-89 and GF109203X, which are PKA and PKC inhibitors, respectively, in comparison to their vehicle DMSO (0.05%).

KEY FINDINGS AND CONCLUSION

Statistical analyses revealed no significant effect for H-89 and GF109203X on either contractile force or kinetics parameters of both non-failing and failing muscles even though they were used at a concentration higher than the reported IC₅₀s and K_is. Therefore, several factors such as selectivity, concentration, and treatment time, which are related to these PK inhibitors according to previous studies require further exploration.

Phosphorylation of ezrin on Thr567 is required for the synergistic activation of cell spreading by EPAC1 and protein kinase A in HEK293T cells

Recent studies have demonstrated that the actin binding protein, ezrin, and the cAMP-sensor, EPAC1, cooperate to induce cell spreading in response to elevations in intracellular cAMP. To investigate the mechanisms underlying these effects we generated a model of EPAC1-dependent cell spreading based on the stable transfection of EPAC1 into HEK293T (HEK293T-EPAC1) cells. We found that direct activation of EPAC1 with the EPAC-selective analogue, 8-pCPT-2'-O-Me-cAMP (007), promoted cell spreading in these cells. In addition, co-activation of EPAC1 and PKA, with a combination of the adenylate cyclase activator, forskolin, and the cAMP phosphodiesterase inhibitor, rolipram, was found to synergistically enhance cell spreading, in association with cortical actin bundling and mobilisation of ezrin to the plasma membrane. PKA activation was also associated with phosphorylation of ezrin on Thr567, as detected by an electrophoretic band mobility shift during SDS-PAGE. Inhibition of PKA activity blocked ezrin phosphorylation and reduced the cell spreading response to cAMP elevation to levels induced by EPAC1-activation alone. Transfection of HEK293T-EPAC1 cells with inhibitory ezrin mutants lacking the key PKA phosphorylation site, ezrin-Thr567Ala, or the ability to associate with actin, ezrin-Arg579Ala, promoted cell arborisation and blocked the ability of EPAC1 and PKA to further promote cell spreading. The PKA phospho-mimetic mutants of ezrin, ezrin-Thr567Asp had no effect on EPAC1-driven cell spreading. Our results indicate that association of ezrin with the actin cytoskeleton and phosphorylation on Thr567 are required, but not sufficient, for PKA and EPAC1 to synergistically promote cell spreading following elevations in intracellular cAMP.

Tri-iodothyronine induces hepatocyte proliferation by protein kinase A-dependent β-catenin activation in rodents

Thyroid hormone (T3), like many other ligands of the steroid/thyroid hormone nuclear receptor superfamily, is a strong inducer of liver cell proliferation in rats and mice. However, the molecular basis of its mitogenic activity, which is currently unknown, must be elucidated if its use in hepatic regenerative medicine is to be considered. F-344 rats or C57BL/6 mice were fed a diet containing T3 for 2-7 days. In rats, administration of T3 led to an increased cytoplasmic stabilization and nuclear translocation of β-catenin in pericentral hepatocytes with a concomitant increase in cyclin-D1 expression. T3 administration to wild-type (WT) mice resulted in increased hepatocyte proliferation; however, no mitogenic response in hepatocytes to T3 was evident in the hepatocyte-specific β-catenin knockout mice (KO). In fact, T3 induced β-catenin-TCF4 reporter activity both in vitro and in vivo. Livers from T3-treated mice demonstrated no changes in Ctnnb1 expression, activity of glycogen synthase kinase-3β, known to phosphorylate and eventually promote β-catenin degradation, or E-cadherin-β-catenin association. However, T3 treatment increased β-catenin phosphorylation at Ser675, an event downstream of protein kinase A (PKA). Administration of PKA inhibitor during T3 treatment of mice and rats as well as in cell culture abrogated Ser675-β-catenin and simultaneously decreased cyclin-D1 expression to block hepatocyte proliferation.

CONCLUSION

We have identified T3-induced hepatocyte mitogenic response to be mediated by PKA-dependent β-catenin activation. Thus, T3 may be of therapeutic relevance to stimulate β-catenin signaling to in turn induce regeneration in selected cases of hepatic insufficiency.

Parvoviruses cause nuclear envelope breakdown by activating key enzymes of mitosis

Disassembly of the nuclear lamina is essential in mitosis and apoptosis requiring multiple coordinated enzymatic activities in nucleus and cytoplasm. Activation and coordination of the different activities is poorly understood and moreover complicated as some factors translocate between cytoplasm and nucleus in preparatory phases. Here we used the ability of parvoviruses to induce nuclear membrane breakdown to understand the triggers of key mitotic enzymes. Nuclear envelope disintegration was shown upon infection, microinjection but also upon their application to permeabilized cells. The latter technique also showed that nuclear envelope disintegration was independent upon soluble cytoplasmic factors. Using time-lapse microscopy, we observed that nuclear disassembly exhibited mitosis-like kinetics and occurred suddenly, implying a catastrophic event irrespective of cell- or type of parvovirus used. Analyzing the order of the processes allowed us to propose a model starting with direct binding of parvoviruses to distinct proteins of the nuclear pore causing structural rearrangement of the parvoviruses. The resulting exposure of domains comprising amphipathic helices was required for nuclear envelope disintegration, which comprised disruption of inner and outer nuclear membrane as shown by electron microscopy. Consistent with Ca⁺⁺ efflux from the lumen between inner and outer nuclear membrane we found that Ca⁺⁺ was essential for nuclear disassembly by activating PKC. PKC activation then triggered activation of cdk-2, which became further activated by caspase-3. Collectively our study shows a unique interaction of a virus with the nuclear envelope, provides evidence that a nuclear pool of executing enzymes is sufficient for nuclear disassembly in quiescent cells, and demonstrates that nuclear disassembly can be uncoupled from initial phases of mitosis.

Parvoviruses are small non-enveloped DNA viruses successfully used in gene therapy. Their nuclear replication requires transit of the nuclear envelope. Analyzing the interaction between parvoviruses and the nucleus, we showed that despite their small size, they did not traverse the nuclear pore, but attached directly to proteins of the nuclear pore complex. We observed that this binding induced structural changes of the parvoviruses and that the structural rearrangement was essential for triggering a signal cascade resulting in disintegration of the nuclear envelope. Physiologically such nuclear envelope breakdown occurs late during prophase of mitosis. Our finding that the parvovirus-mediated nuclear envelope breakdown also occurred in the absence of soluble cytosolic factors allowed us to decipher the intra nuclear pathways involved in nuclear envelope destabilization. Consistently with the physiological disintegration we found that key enzymes of mitosis were essential and we further identified Ca⁺⁺ as the initial trigger. Thus our data not only show a unique pathway of how a DNA virus interacts with the nucleus but also describes a virus-based system allowing the first time to analyze selectively the intranuclear pathways leading to nuclear envelope disintegration.

Protein kinase A activates and phosphorylates RORα4 in vitro and takes part in RORα activation by CaMK-IV

The retinoic acid related orphan receptor RORα positively regulates the transcription of genes important for cerebellar development, immune function, lipid metabolism, and circadian rhythm. In the present study, we identified protein kinase A (PKA) as RORα4 phosphorylating kinase in vitro. The primary sequence of RORα4 contains a PKA recognition motif (R-D-S99) within the c-terminal extension of the DNA-binding domain, and mutation of Ser-99 to Ala prevents RORα4 phosphorylation by PKA. Activation of PKA by dBcAMP results in a marked induction of RORα4 activity. Inhibition of PKA with the selective kinase inhibitor H89 inhibits dBcAMP mediated as well as CaMK-IV triggered increase in RORα4 transcriptional activity. The regulation of RORα activity by PKA as well as CaMK-IV provides a new link in the signalling network that regulates metabolic processes such as glycogen and lipid metabolism.

Intermolecular cross-talk between the prostaglandin E2 receptor (EP)3 of subtype and thromboxane A(2) receptor signalling in human erythroleukaemic cells

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

In previous studies investigating cross-talk of signalling between prostaglandin (PG)E(2) receptor (EP) and the TPalpha and TPbeta isoforms of the human thromboxane (TX)A(2) receptor (TP), 17-phenyl trinor PGE(2)-induced desensitization of TP receptor signalling through activation of the AH6809 and SC19220-sensitive EP(1) subtype of the EP receptor family, in a cell-specific manner. Here, we sought to further investigate that cross-talk in human erythroleukaemic (HEL) 92.1.7 cells.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Specificity of 17-phenyl trinor PGE(2) signalling and its possible cross-talk with signalling by TPalpha/TPbeta receptors endogenously expressed in HEL cells was examined through assessment of agonist-induced inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP)(3) generation and intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)](i)) mobilization.

KEY RESULTS

While 17-Phenyl trinor PGE(2) led to activation of phospholipase (PL)Cbeta to yield increases in IP(3) generation and [Ca(2+)](i), it did not desensitize but rather augmented that signalling in response to subsequent stimulation with the TXA(2) mimetic U46619. Furthermore, the augmentation was reciprocal. Signalling by 17-phenyl trinor PGE(2) was found to occur through AH6809- and SC19920-insensitive, Pertussis toxin-sensitive, G(i)/G(betagamma)-dependent activation of PLCbeta. Further pharmacological investigation using selective EP receptor subtype agonists and antagonists confirmed that 17-phenyl trinor PGE(2)-mediated signalling and reciprocal cross-talk with the TP receptors occurred through the EP(3), rather than the EP(1), EP(2) or EP(4) receptor subtype in HEL cells.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The EP(1) and EP(3) subtypes of the EP receptor family mediated intermolecular cross-talk to differentially regulate TP receptor-mediated signalling whereby activation of EP(1) receptors impaired or desensitized, while that of EP(3) receptors augmented signalling through TPalpha/TPbeta receptors, in a cell type-specific manner.

Short-term TNF-Alpha treatment induced A2B adenosine receptor desensitization in human astroglial cells

Long-term glial cell treatment with the proinflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha has been demonstrated to increase the functional responsiveness of A(2B) adenosine receptors (A(2B) ARs), which in turn synergize with the cytokine inducing chronic astrogliosis. In the present study, we investigated the short-term effects of TNF-alpha on A(2B) AR functional responses in human astroglial cells (ADF), thus simulating the acute phase of cerebral damage which is characterized by both cytokine and adenosine high level release. Short-term TNF-alpha cell treatment caused A(2B) AR phosphorylation inducing, in turn, impairment in A(2B) AR-G protein coupling and cAMP production. These effects occurred in a time-dependent manner with a maximum following 3-h cell exposure. Moreover, we showed PKC intracellular kinase is mainly involved in the TNF-alpha-mediated regulation of A(2B) AR functional responses. The results may indicate the A(2B) AR functional impairment as a cell defense mechanism to counteract the A(2B) receptor-mediated effects during the acute phase of brain damage, underlying A(2B) AR as a target to modulate early inflammatory responses.

Differential regulation of the high affinity choline transporter and the cholinergic locus by cAMP signaling pathways

Synthesis, storage and release of acetylcholine (ACh) require the expression of several specialized enzymes, including choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT) and the high-affinity choline transporter (CHT). Extracellular factors that regulate CHT expression and their signaling pathways remain poorly characterized. Using the NSC-19 cholinergic cell line, derived from embryonic spinal cord, we compared the effects of the second messenger cAMP on the expression of CHT and the cholinergic locus containing the ChAT and VAChT genes. Treatment of NSC-19 cells with dbcAMP and forskolin, thus increasing intracellular cAMP levels, significantly reduced CHT mRNA expression, while it upregulated ChAT/VAChT mRNA levels and ChAT activity. The cAMP-induced CHT downregulation was independent of PKA activity, as shown in treatments with the PKA inhibitor H-89. The alternative Epac-Rap pathway, when stimulated by a specific Epac activator, led to significant downregulation of CHT and ChAT, and, to a lesser extent, VAChT. In contrast, the PKA activator 6-BNZ-cAMP stimulated the expression of all three genes, but with varying concentration-dependence profiles. Our results indicate that elevations of intraneuronal cAMP concentration have differential effects on the cholinergic phenotype, depending on the involvement of different downstream effectors. Interestingly, although CHT is expressed predominantly in cholinergic cells, its regulation appears to be distinct from that of the cholinergic locus.

The neuropeptide proctolin potentiates contractions and reduces cGMP concentration via a PKC-dependent pathway

As in many other arthropods, the neuropeptide proctolin enhances contractures of muscles in the crustacean isopod Idotea emarginata. The enhancement of high K+-induced contractures by proctolin (1 micromol l-1) was mimicked upon application of the protein kinase C (PKC) activator phorbol-12-myristate 1-acetate (PMA) and was inhibited by the PKC inhibitor bisindolylmaleimide (BIM-1). The potentiation was not inhibited by H89, a protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor. Proctolin did not change the intracellular concentration of 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) whereas it significantly reduced the intracellular concentration of 3',5'-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). The reduction of cGMP was not observed in the presence of the PKC inhibitor BIM-1. 8-Bromo-cGMP, a membrane-permeable cGMP analogue, reduced the potentiating effect of proctolin on muscle contracture. We thus conclude that proctolin in the studied crustacean muscle fibres induces an activation of PKC, which leads to a reduction of the cGMP concentration and, consequently, to the potentiation of muscle contracture.

Cholecystokinin-2 receptors couple to cAMP–protein kinase A to depress excitatory synaptic currents in rat nucleus accumbens in vitro

We recently reported that the activation of cholecystokinin-2 receptors depress evoked excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) in nucleus accumbens (NAc) indirectly through γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) acting on γ-aminobutyric acid-B (GABAB) receptors. Here, we determined the second messenger system that couples cholecystokinin-2 receptors to the observed synaptic depression. Using in vitro forebrain slices of rats and whole-cell patch recording, we tested the hypothesis that cholecystokinin-2 receptors are coupled to cAMP and protein kinase A signaling pathway. Cholecystokinin-8S induced inward currents and depressed evoked EPSCs. Forskolin, an activator of adenylyl cyclase and rolipram that is an inhibitor of phosphodiesterase type IV, independently increased EPSC amplitude and blocked the inward current and synaptic depression induced by cholecystokinin-8S. Furthermore, the membrane-permeable cAMP analog, 8-bromo-cAMP, blocked the cholecystokinin-8S effects. H89, a protein kinase A inhibitor, also blocked cholecystokinin-8S effects. However, depression of the evoked EPSC by baclofen, a GABABreceptor agonist, was not blocked by H89 or forskolin. These findings indicate that cholecystokinin-2, but not GABAB, receptors are coupled to the adenylyl cyclase – cAMP – protein kinase A signaling pathway in the NAc to induce inward currents and cause synaptic depression.

The α, but Not the β, Isoform of the Human Thromboxane A2 Receptor Is a Target for Nitric Oxide-mediated Desensitization

In humans, thromboxane A2 signals through two thromboxane A2 receptor (TP) isoforms termed TP alpha and TP beta. Signaling by TP alpha, but not TP beta, is subject to prostacyclin-induced desensitization mediated by direct protein kinase (PK) A phosphorylation where Ser329 represents the phosphotarget (Walsh, M. T., Foley, J. F., and Kinsella, B. T. (2000) J. Biol. Chem. 275, 20412-20423). In the current study, the effect of the vasodilator nitric oxide (NO) on intracellular signaling by the TP isoforms was investigated. The NO donor 3-morpholinosydnonimine, HCl (SIN-1) and 8-bromo-guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (8-Br-cGMP) functionally desensitized U46619-mediated calcium mobilization and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate generation by TP alpha whereas signaling by TP beta was unaffected by either agent. NO-mediated desensitization of TP alpha signaling occurred through a PKG-dependent, PKA- and PKC-independent mechanism. TP alpha, but not TP beta, was efficiently phosphorylated by PKG in vitro and underwent NO/PKG-mediated phosphorylation in whole cells. Deletion/site-directed mutagenesis and metabolic labeling studies identified Ser331 as the target residue of NO-induced PKG phosphorylation of TP alpha. Although TP alpha S331A was insensitive to NO/PKG-desensitization, similar to wild type TP alpha its signaling was fully desensitized by the prostacyclin receptor agonist cicaprost occurring through a PKA-dependent mechanism. Conversely, signaling by TP alpha S329A was insensitive to cicaprost stimulation whereas it was fully desensitized by NO/PKG signaling. In conclusion, TP alpha undergoes both NO- and prostacyclin-mediated desensitization that occur through entirely independent mechanisms involving direct PKG phosphorylation of Ser331, in response to NO, and PKA phosphorylation of Ser329, in response to prostacyclin, within the unique carboxyl-terminal tail domain of TP alpha. On the other hand, signaling by TP beta is unaffected by either NO or prostacyclin.

Glucose uptake via SGLT-1 is stimulated by beta(2)-adrenoceptors in the ruminal epithelium of sheep

Glucose absorption via the sodium glucose-linked transporter (SGLT)-1, decreases the glucose concentration in the ruminant forestomach and may ameliorate or prevent ruminal lactic acidosis. Because acidotic ruminants show increased sympathetic activity, the possibility of adrenergic modulation of SGLT-1 was investigated. Glucose uptake into ovine ruminal epithelia was measured in Ussing chambers after the addition of 200 micromol/L (14)C-labeled glucose to the mucosal solution. Glucose uptake decreased (P < 0.05) by >50% in comparison with control after mucosal addition of the SGLT-1 inhibitor, phlorizin (100 micromol/L). Serosal preincubation with 100 micromol/L epinephrine increased (P < 0.05) the phlorizin-sensitive glucose uptake in the absence and presence of indomethacin (10 micromol/L). The effect of epinephrine was simulated by beta- (100 micromol/L isoproterenol) and beta(2)-receptor agonists (10 micromol/L terbutaline), as well as by direct stimulation of adenylyl cyclase (10 micromol/L forskolin). The serosal addition of methoxamine, clonidine, dobutamine or BRL 37344 had no effect. Inhibition of protein kinase A with 2 micromol/L H 89 completely abolished the stimulation of glucose uptake by epinephrine. We conclude that ruminal SGLT-1 can be stimulated via beta(2)-dependent generation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate.

Cyclic adenosine monophosphate-dependent phosphorylation of mammalian mitochondrial proteins: enzyme and substrate characterization and functional role

A study is presented on cyclic adenosine monophosphate- (cAMP-) dependent phosphorylation of mammalian mitochondrial proteins. Immunodetection with specific antibodies reveals the presence of the catalytic and the regulatory subunits of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) in the inner membrane and matrix of bovine heart mitochondria. The mitochondrial cAMP-dependent protein kinase phosphorylates mitochondrial proteins of 29, 18, and 6.5 kDa. With added histone as substrate, PKA exhibits affinities for ATP and cAMP and pH optimum comparable to those of the cytosolic PKA. Among the mitochondrial proteins phosphorylated by PKA, one is the nuclear-encoded (NDUFS4 gene) 18 kDa subunit of complex I, which has phosphorylation consensus sites in the C terminus and in the presequence. cAMP promotes phosphorylation of the 18 kDa subunit of complex I in myoblasts in culture and in their isolated mitoplast fraction. In both cases cAMP-dependent phosphorylation of the 18 kDa subunit of complex I is accompanied by enhancement of the activity of the complex. These results, and the finding of mutations in the NDUFS4 gene in patients with complex I deficiency, provide evidence showing that cAMP-dependent phosphorylation of the 18 kDa subunit of complex I plays a major role in the control of the mitochondrial respiratory activity.

Prostaglandin D(2) receptor-mediated desensitization of the alpha isoform of the human thromboxane A(2) receptor

Thromboxane (TX) A(2) and prostaglandin (PG) D(2) mediate opposing actions in platelets and in vascular and non-vascular smooth muscle. Here, we investigated the effects of stimulation of the PGD(2) receptor (DP) on signaling by the TXA(2) receptor (TP) expressed in human platelets and in human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells over-expressing the individual TP alpha and TP beta isoforms. In platelets, the selective DP agonist BW245C abolished TP-mediated mobilization of intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)](i)) and inhibited platelet aggregation in response to the TXA(2) mimetic U46619. DP-mediated desensitization of TP signaling in platelets was prevented by pretreatment with the cAMP-dependent PKA inhibitor, H-89, but was unaffected by the PKC inhibitor GF 109203X. In HEK 293 cells, signaling by TP alpha, but not TP beta, was subject to DP-mediated desensitization in a PKA-dependent, PKC-independent manner. U46619-induced signaling by TP(Delta 328), a truncated variant of TP containing only those residues common to TP alpha and TP beta, was insensitive to prior DP stimulation, indicating that the carboxyl terminal tail of TPalpha contains the target site(s) for DP-mediated desensitization. Mutation of Ser(329) to Ala(329) within a consensus PKA site in TP alpha rendered the mutant TP alpha(S329A) insensitive to BW245C-mediated desensitization. Whole cell phosphorylation assays established that TP alpha, but not TP beta or TP alpha(S329A), was subject to DP-mediated phosphorylation and that TP alpha phosphorylation was blocked by the PKA inhibitor H-89. These data establish that TP alpha, but not TP beta, is subject to DP-mediated cross desensitization, which occurs through direct PKA-mediated phosphorylation of TP alpha at Ser(329).

The alpha, but not the beta, isoform of the human thromboxane A2 receptor is a target for prostacyclin-mediated desensitization

In this study, we examined the effects the prostacyclin receptor (IP) agonist cicaprost exhibited on U46619-mediated thromboxane A(2) receptor (TP) signaling in platelets and compared it to that which occurs in human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells stably overexpressing the individual TPalpha or TPbeta isoforms. Consistent with previous studies, cicaprost abrogated U46619-mediated platelet aggregation and mobilization of intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)](i)). In HEK 293 cells, signaling by TPalpha, but not TPbeta, was subject to IP-mediated desensitization in a protein kinase A-dependent, protein kinase C-independent manner. Desensitization of TPalpha signaling was independent of the nature of the IP agonist used, the level of IP expression, or the subtype of G(q) protein. Signaling by TP(Delta)(328), a truncated variant of TP devoid of the divergent residues of the TPs, or by TPalpha(S329A), a site-directed mutant of TPalpha, were insensitive to IP agonist activation. Whole cell phosphorylations established that TPalpha, but not TPbeta or TPalpha(S329A), is subject to IP-mediated phosphorylation and that TPalpha phosphorylation is inhibited by H-89. Thus, we conclude that TPalpha, but not TPbeta, is subject to cross-desensitization by IP mediated through direct protein kinase A phosphorylation at Ser(329) and propose that TPalpha may be the isoform physiologically relevant to TP:IP-mediated vascular hemostasis.

Pentoxifylline inhibits human peritoneal mesothelial cell growth and collagen synthesis: effects on TGF-beta

BACKGROUND

Prevention or treatment of peritoneal fibrosing syndrome has become an important issue in patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Recent evidence has suggested that mesothelial stem cell proliferation and matrix over-production predispose the development of peritoneal fibrosis. We investigated whether pentoxifylline (PTX) affects human peritoneal mesothelial cell (HPMC) growth and collagen synthesis.

METHODS

HPMC was cultured from human omentum by an enzymic disaggregation method. Cell proliferation was assayed using a methyltetrazolium uptake method. Cell cycle analysis was performed by flow cytometry. Collagen synthesis was measured by 3H-proline incorporation into pepsin-resistant, salt-precipitated collagen. Prostaglandins and cAMP were determined by enzyme immunoassay. Northern blot analysis was used to determine mRNA expression.

RESULTS

Our data show that PTX inhibited serum-stimulated HPMC growth and collagen synthesis in a dose-dependent manner. Cell cycle analysis showed that PTX arrested the HPMCs in the G1 phase. PTX decreased the procollagen alpha1 (I) mRNA expression either stimulated by serum or transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta). PTX did not alter prostaglandins synthesis but dose-dependently increased intracellular cAMP level. PTX, the same as 3-isobutyl-l-methylxanthine, could potentiate prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) increased cAMP levels of HPMC. The antimitogenic and antifibrogenic effects of PTX on HPMC were reversed by N-[2]-((p-Bromocinnamyl)amino)ethyl]-5-isoquinolinesulfonamide (H-89). Therefore, the mechanism of these effects may be due to the phospodiesterase inhibitory property of PTX.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that PTX may have a role in treating peritoneal fibrosing syndrome.

Follicle-stimulating hormone inhibits all-trans-retinoic acid-induced retinoic acid receptor alpha nuclear localization and transcriptional activation in mouse Sertoli cell lines

The regulation of retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARalpha) signal transduction has not been well characterized. In this study, we determined whether all-trans-retinoic acid (tRA) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) modulate RARalpha receptor subcellular localization, leading to changes in its transcriptional activity and protein expression in mouse Sertoli cell lines. We found that tRA induced the nuclear localization of RARalpha within 30 min and that longer term exposure increased the receptor transcriptional activity and RARalpha protein expression. Conversely, FSH suppressed the tRA-induced nuclear localization, transcriptional transactivation, and protein expression of RARalpha. Treatment with two different protein kinase A-selective antagonists reversed the inhibitory actions of FSH on tRA-dependent RARalpha nuclear localization and transcriptional activity. These results are consistent with the involvement of protein kinase A in mediating the inhibitory effects of FSH. For the first time, we demonstrate a unique signaling convergence between the RARalpha and the FSH-mediated signaling pathways, which may have significant implications in the testis because both are critical regulators of testis physiology.

Transcriptional activation of the human manganese superoxide dismutase gene mediated by tetradecanoylphorbol acetate

Transcriptional activation of human manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) mRNA induced by a phorbol ester, 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), was examined to identify the responsive transcriptional regulator. The effect of various deletions and mutations within the 5'-flanking region of the human MnSOD gene promoter was evaluated using the luciferase reporter system in A549 human lung carcinoma cells. Deletion of a region between -1292 and -1202 nucleotides upstream of the transcription start site abolished TPA-responsive induction, whereas deletion of the putative binding sequence for NF-kappaB or AP-1 did not. The region between -1292 and -1202 contains a cAMP-responsive element-like sequence, TGACGTCT, which we identified as the manganese superoxide dismutase TPA-responsive element, MSTRE. Site-specific mutation of the MSTRE abolished the TPA-responsive induction, validating the critical role of this sequence. We detected specific MSTRE activity from nuclear extracts and demonstrated by antibody supershift assay that this activity is closely related to CREB-1/ATF-1. TPA treatment rapidly induced phosphorylation of the CREB-1/ATF-1-like factor via the protein kinase C pathway. These results led us to conclude that the human MnSOD gene having the promoter construct used in this study is induced by TPA via activation of a CREB-1/ATF-1-like factor and not via either NF-kappaB or AP-1. In addition, we found that this induction was blocked by inhibitors of flavoproteins and NADPH oxidases, indicating involvement of enhanced generation of superoxide radical anion as an upstream signal.

Evidence for early signaling events in stomatin-induced differentiation of Tetrahymena vorax

The mechanism of stomatin-induced differentiation of Tetrahymena vorax was investigated by in vivo protease degradation of cell surface proteins, the direct measurement of products formed from the activation of phospholipase C, and the use of an array of signal transduction inhibitors/activators. The data indicate that a surface-exposed protein is required for stomatin to signal the cells to differentiate and that the cells are committed to the differentiation pathway within two hours after exposure to stomatin. Analysis of radiolabeled polyphosphoinositols and inositol lipids from control and stomatin-treated populations in the presence of 10 mM LiCl were consistent with a rapid activation of phospholipase C. Within five min following addition of stomatin, this resulted in an increase in polyphosphoinositols and a concomitant decrease in the relative amounts of phosphatidylinositol bisphosphate and phosphatidylinositol trisphosphate.

Effect of urocortin on ACTH secretion from rat anterior pituitary in vitro and in vivo: comparison with corticotropin-releasing hormone

Both urocortin (UCN) and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) are known to stimulate secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by corticotroph cells via type-1 corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor (CRHR-1). We extensively examined UCN effects on the anterior pituitary (AP), particularly on proopiomelanocortin (POMC) mRNA and CRHR-1 mRNA as well as ACTH secretion in vivo. Moreover, signal transduction with UCN exposure was assessed in AP cell cultures in comparison with transduction following CRH exposure. Intravenously administered of UCN (5 microg/kg) increased ACTH and corticosterone secretion. Similarly, intravenous administration of UCN increased POMC mRNA and decreased CRHR-1 mRNA in the AP. These UCN effects were more potent and long-lasting than those of CRH. The prominent effect of UCN on ACTH secretion in vivo was confirmed in AP cell cultures, where application of UCN stimulated ACTH release approximately 7 times more strongly than CRH. The effect of UCN on ACTH release was enhanced by phorbol esters which activate protein kinase C, but was reduced by the selective cAMP-dependent protein kinase inhibitor, H-89. These results suggest that, as with CRH, UCN stimulates ACTH production and/or release through cAMP-dependent mechanisms, and that protein kinase C-dependent mechanism has a synergistic effect upon UCN-induced ACTH release. The more potent effects of UCN relative to CRH may be attributable to UCN's higher affinity for CRHR-1.

Resting membrane properties of locust muscle and their modulation II. Actions of the biogenic amine octopamine

Ionic currents in the resting membrane of locust jumping muscle and their modulation by the biogenic amine octopamine were investigated using the two-electrode voltage clamp. A Cl- conductance, GCl,H, which slowly activates on hyperpolarization, can be induced by raising the intracellular Cl- concentration via diffusion of Cl- ions from the recording electrode. The instantaneous I-V characteristic of the current, ICl,H, is linear and reverses at the same potential as the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-mediated Cl- current. Elevation of [Cl-]i increases the maximal steady state GCl,H (Gmax) and shifts the activation curve of GCl,H to more positive potentials. Octopamine enhances GCl,H, mainly by increasing Gmax. Octopamine also lowers the resting K+ conductance (GK,r). It reduces a hyperpolarization-activated component (GK,H) of GK,r, mainly by decreasing Gmax. Octopamine also transiently stimulates the Na+/K+ pump although this effect was not always seen. The effects of octopamine on the Cl- and K+ conductances are mimicked by membrane permeant cyclic nucleotides. The modulation of GK,r, but not that of GCl,H, seems to be mediated by protein kinase A (PKA). PKA seems to be constitutively activated as indicated by the pronounced increase in GK,r induced by a PKA inhibitor, H89. The properties of GCl,H and related Cl- conductances in invertebrate and vertebrate neurons are compared. GCl,H probably supports efflux of Cl- ions accumulating in the fibers during synaptic inhibition. Octopamine's multiple modulation at the level of the muscle cell membrane, in conjunction with previously established effects on synaptic transmission and excitation-contraction coupling, are suited to support strong and rapid muscle contractions.

Roles for interleukin-1beta, phorbol ester and a post-transcriptional regulator in the control of bradykinin B1 receptor gene expression

Bradykinin B1 receptor (BKB1R) is involved in a variety of pathophysiological processes, particularly those related to inflammation. The gene for this receptor is known to be upregulated by interleukin (IL)-1beta, a proinflammatory cytokine. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of the BKB1R gene expression have not been defined. We demonstrated that IL-1beta induces a rapid increase in BKB1R mRNA level and the binding of desArg10-kallidin in human embryo lung fibroblasts (IMR90). This increase in BKB1R mRNA level is protein synthesis-independent as indicated by treatment of cells with cycloheximide (CHX) or puromycin (PUR). By testing the IL-1beta effect on BKB1R mRNA degradation, we showed that the IL-1beta upregulation of BKB1R expression is achieved through both transcriptional activation and post-transcriptional mRNA stabilization. In addition to the IL-1beta effects, translation inhibitors, CHX and PUR increase the steady state BKB1R mRNA level by inhibiting BKB1R mRNA degradation. Removal of the CHX block with subsequent resumption of protein synthesis results in a sizable increase of desArg10-kallidin binding. Using signalling pathway inhibitors, we show that IL-1beta functions through a protein tyrosine kinase, not protein kinase C or protein kinase A. However, activation of protein kinase C by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate increases the level of BKB1R mRNA and the binding of desArg10-kallidin. This increase is blocked by NF-kappaB activation inhibitors.

Effects of inhibitors for intracellular signal transduction systems on the inward current produced by GABA in a snail neuron

1. An inward current (I[in]) was produced by gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and muscimol, but not by baclofen, in an identifiable giant neuron type, v-LCDN (ventral-left cerebral distinct neuron), of an African giant snail (Achatina fulica Ferussac) under voltage clamp. 2. The pharmacological features of the excitatory GABA receptors in this Achatina neuron type, termed the Achatina muscimol II type GABA receptors, were mainly comparable to those of the mammalian GABA(C) receptors. 3. It was demonstrated in the present study that the following inhibitors for intracellular signal transduction systems showed no significant effect on the I(in) produced by GABA in this Achatina neuron type: H-7 [1-(5-isoquinolinyl sulfonyl)-2-methylpiperazine], an inhibitor of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) and protein kinase C (PKC); H-8 (N-[2-(methylamino)-ethyl]-5-isoquinolinesulfonamide), a PKA and PKG inhibitor; H-9 [N-(2-aminoethyl)-5-isoquinolinesulfonamide], a PKA inhibitor; staurosporine ((9alpha,10beta,11beta,13alpha)-(+)-2,3,10,11,12 ,13-hexahydro-10-methoxy-9-methyl-11-(methylamino)-9,13-epoxy-1H,9H-d iindolo[1,2,3-gh: 3',2',1'-1m]pyrrolo[3,4-j] [1,7]benzodiazonin-1-one), a PKA and PKC inhibitor; KT5823 ((8R,9S, 11S)-9-methoxy-9-methoxycarbonyl-2N,8-dimethyl-2,3,9,10-tetrahydro-8,11- epoxy-1H,8H,11H-2,7b,11a-triazadibenzo[a,g]cycloocta[c,d,e]- trinden-1-one), a PKG inhibitor; W-7 [N-(6-aminohexyl)-5-chloro-1-naphthalenesulfonamide], a calmodulin inhibitor; ML-9 [1-(5-chloronaphthalene-1-sulfonyl-1H-hexahydro-1,4-diazepine hydrochloride], a myosin light-chain kinase inhibitor; genistein [5,7-dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one], a tyrosine protein kinase inhibitor; IBMX (3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine), a cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor; fluphenazine nitrogen-mustard (2-chloroethyl)-4[3-(2-trifluoromethyl-10-phenothiazinyl)-propyl]p iperazine dihydrochloride), a calmodulin-dependent PDE inhibitor; calyculin A, a type 1 protein phosphatase inhibitor; and okadaic acid (9,10-deepithio-9,10-didehydroacanthifolicin), a type 1, 2A and 2B protein phosphatase inhibitor. 4. With these results, it was proposed that the excitatory Achatina muscimol II type GABA receptors in v-LCDN are not metabotropic but ionotropic.

Calcium oscillations in melanotrope cells of Xenopus laevis are differentially regulated by cAMP-dependent and cAMP-independent mechanisms

Intracellular Ca2+ oscillations play an important role in the induction of alpha-MSH release from pituitary melanotrope cells of Xenopus laevis. Oscillatory, secretory and adenylyl cyclase activities are all inhibited by dopamine, neuropeptide Y (NPY) and baclofen (a GABAB receptor agonist) and stimulated by sauvagine. In this study, we test the hypothesis that these neural messengers regulate the Ca2+ oscillations via a cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA)-dependent mechanism. To this end, video-imaging microscopy was applied to single Xenopus melanotropes loaded with the Ca2+ indicator Fura-2. The cAMP-dependent PKA inhibitor H89 blocked Ca2+ oscillations as well as the stimulatory actions of 8-Br-cAMP and sauvagine. Treatment of cells inhibited by baclofen with either 8-Br-cAMP or sauvagine led to a reappearance of Ca2+ oscillations. A similar result was found for cells inhibited by NPY. Neither 8-Br-cAMP nor sauvagine induced Ca2+ oscillations in cells inhibited by dopamine. Depolarizing dopamine-inhibited cells with high potassium also failed to induce oscillations, but combining 8-Br-cAMP with membrane depolarization induced oscillations. It is concluded that sauvagine, baclofen and NPY work primarily through a cAMP/PKA-pathway while dopamine inhibits Ca2+ oscillations in a dual fashion, namely via both a cAMP-dependent and a cAMP-independent mechanism, the latter probably involving membrane hyperpolarization.

Protein kinase A activation increases sodium current magnitude in the electric organ of Sternopygus

The inactivation kinetics of the Na+ current of the weakly electric fish Sternopygus are modified by treatment with androgens. To determine whether phosphorylation could play a role in this effect, we examined whether activation of protein kinase A by 8 bromo cyclic AMP (8 Br cAMP) altered voltage-dependent properties of the current. Using a two-electrode voltage-clamp procedure, we found no effect of 8 Br cAMP on inactivation kinetics or other voltage-dependent properties of the Na+ current of the electrocytes. However, treatment with 8 Br cAMP did produce a dose-dependent increase in the Na+ current compared with saline controls: 17.6% at 100 microM, 42.4% at 1 mM, and 43.1% at 5 mM. This effect was blocked by 30 microM H89, a PKA inhibitor, indicating that the observed effect was attributable to 8 Br cAMP activation of PKA. We conclude that androgen-induced changes in Na+ current inactivation are not mediated by PKA and suggest that PKA-mediated increases in Na+ current underlie increases in the amplitude of the electric organ discharge observed in social interactions or with changes in water conductance.

Induction of cytokine granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor and chemokine macrophage inflammatory protein 2 mRNAs in macrophages by Legionella pneumophila or Salmonella typhimurium attachment requires different ligand-receptor systems

The attachment of bacteria to macrophages is mediated by different ligands and receptors and induces various intracellular molecular responses. In the present study, induction of cytokines and chemokines, especially granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and macrophage inflammatory protein 2 (MIP-2), was examined, following bacterial attachment, with regard to the ligand-receptor systems involved. Attachment of Legionella pneumophila or Salmonella typhimurium to cultured mouse peritoneal macrophages increased the steady-state levels of cellular mRNAs for the cytokines interleukin 1beta (IL-1beta), IL-6, and GM-CSF as well as the chemokines MIP-1beta, MIP-2, and KC. However, when macrophages were treated with alpha-methyl-D-mannoside (alphaMM), a competitor of glycopeptide ligands, induction of cytokine mRNAs was inhibited, but the levels of chemokine mRNAs were not. Pretreatment of the bacteria with fresh mouse serum enhanced the level of GM-CSF mRNA but not the level of MIP-2 mRNA. In addition, serum treatment reduced the inhibitory effect of alphaMM on GM-CSF mRNA. These results indicate that bacterial attachment increases the steady-state levels of the cytokine and chemokine mRNAs tested by at least two distinct receptor-ligand systems, namely, one linked to cytokine induction and involving mannose or other sugar residues and the other linked to chemokine induction and relatively alphaMM insensitive. Furthermore, opsonization with serum engages other pathways in the cytokine response which are relatively independent of the alphaMM-sensitive system. Regarding bacterial surface ligands involved in cytokine mRNA induction, evidence is presented that the flagellum may be important in stimulating cytokine GM-CSF message but not chemokine MIP-2 message. Analysis of cytokine GM-CSF and chemokine MIP-2 signaling pathways with protein kinase inhibitors revealed the involvement of calmodulin and myosin light-chain kinase in GM-CSF but not MIP-2 mRNA induction, adding further evidence that several distinct receptor systems are engaged during the process of bacterial attachment and induction of cytokines and chemokines, such as GM-CSF and MIP-2, respectively.

Effect of adenosine 3':5'-cyclic monophosphate and inhibition of protein kinase A on heat sensitivity in H35 hepatoma cells

PURPOSE

To investigate the role of the cyclic adenosine 3':5'-monophosphate (AMP) signal transductions pathway in heat-induced cell death and the development of thermotolerance.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Reuber H35 rat hepatoma cells were heated after preincubation with various compounds known to modulate the cyclic AMP signal transduction pathway. Cell survival was determined by colony-forming ability.

RESULTS

Preincubation of H35 cells with forskolin, a stimulator of adenylate cyclase, in combination with IBMX (3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine), an inhibitor of cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase, results in thermosensitization. Similar results are obtained with various cyclic AMP analogs. Maximum thermosensitization occurs with 0.5 mM dibutyryl cyclic AMP (DBcAMP) after a preincubation period of 5 h and heating in the presence of the drug. The same relative degree of thermosensitization is found with 8-Cl-cAMP, but at a 10-fold lower concentration. Thermosensitization by DBcAMP is prevented by H89, a specific inhibitor of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA). Without additional cyclic AMP-inducing factors, H89 induces thermoprotection. None of the drug treatments are cytotoxic at 37 degrees C. DBcAMP does not affect the development of heat-induced thermotolerance but it reduces its expression to an extent similarly found in the observed thermosensitization in nonthermotolerant cells.

CONCLUSION

The results strongly indicate that the cyclic AMP signal transduction pathway is involved in the process of heat-induced cell death. DBcAMP reduces the expression of thermotolerance, but does not affect its induction.

Multiple intracellular signal transduction pathways mediating inward current produced by the neuropeptide, achatin-I

The effects of intracellular signal transduction system inhibitors on the inward current (Iin) caused by achatin-I (Gly-D-Phe-Ala-Asp), an Achatina endogenous tetrapeptide having a D-phenylalanine residue, applied locally onto the neurone tested, were examined under voltage clamp using two identifiable Achatina giant neurone types, v-RCDN (ventral-right cerebral distinct neurone) and PON (periodically oscillating neurone). H-89 (N-[2-(p-bromocinnamylamino)-ethyl]-5-isoquinolinesulfonamide) (adenosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cyclic AMP)-dependent protein kinase inhibitor) markedly suppressed the achatin-I-induced Iin on PON, whereas this drug was ineffective on the Iin of v-RCDN. Dose (pressure duration)-response study of achatin-I on PON in a physiological solution and in the presence of H-89, and Lineweaver-Burk plot of these data, indicated that H-89 inhibited the Iin in a noncompetitive manner. KT5823 (N-methyl-(8R*,9S*,11S*)-(-)-9-methoxy-9-methoxycarbonyl-8-methyl-2,3,9, 10-tetrahydro-8,11-epoxy-1H,8H,11H-2, 7b,11a-triazadibenzo[a,g]cycloocta[c,d,e]-trinden-1-on e) (guanosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cyclic GMP)-dependent protein kinase inhibitor) suppressed the achatin-I-induced Iin of v-RCDN in mainly noncompetitive and partly uncompetitive manners, but this drug had no effect on the Iin of PON. W-7 (N-(6-aminohexyl)-5-chloro-1-naphthalene-sulfonamide) (calmodulin inhibitor) suppressed noncompetitively the Iin of PON, but this drug had no effect on the Iin of v-RCDN. IBMX (3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine) (cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase inhibitor) enhanced the achatin-I-induced Iin of v-RCDN, but this drug was ineffective on the Iin of PON. However, IBMX might have effects on the achatin-I receptor sites on v-RCDN. These findings suggest multiple intracellular signal transduction pathways mediating the achatin-I-induced Iin: the Iin of PON is via cyclic AMP-dependent and probably Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinases, and that of v-RCDN via cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase. Other signal transduction system inhibitors including calphostin C (2-[12-[2-(benzyloxy)-propyl]-3, 10-dihydro-4,9-dihydroxy-2,6,7,11-tetramethoxy-3,10-dioxo-1-per yleny]-1 -methylethyl carbonic acid 4-hydroxyphenyl ester) (protein kinase C inhibitor) did not significantly affect the Iin of both v-RCDN and PON.

Cellular pathways involved in the ex vivo expression of bovine leukemia virus

Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) is the etiologic agent of enzootic bovine leukosis. The virus adopts a strategy based on the lack of viral expression in vivo; only very rare BLV-infected B lymphocytes express viral information. When the cells are isolated from animals in persistent lymphocytosis and cultivated ex vivo, a tremendous increase in viral expression occurs. To gain insight into this mechanism, we employed a general approach using chemicals that interfere specifically with cellular pathways involved in signal transduction from the cell membrane to the nucleus. Our data demonstrate that BLV expression is not correlated with the activity of protein kinase A (PKA) and is even inhibited by cyclic AMP (cAMP). The cAMP/PKA pathway is thus apparently not involved in ex vivo viral expression. In contrast, PKC appears to play a key role in this process. Phorbol myristate acetate can directly activate viral expression in B cells (in the absence of T cells). Furthermore, calphostin C, a highly specific inhibitor of PKC, partly decreases ex vivo BLV expression. Our data further demonstrate that calmodulin and calcineurin, a calmodulin-dependent phosphatase, play a key role in the induction of viral expression. The involvement of this calmodulin-dependent pathway could explain the induction of expression that cannot be assigned to PKC. Furthermore, it appears that the activation of viral expression requires a calmodulin but not a PKA-dependent pathway. These data highlight major differences between transient transfection and ex vivo experiments. Finally, despite their homologies, BLV and human T-cell leukemia virus appear to use different signal transduction pathways to induce viral expression.

Interleukin-1 increases vacuolar-type H+-ATPase activity in murine peritoneal macrophages

Maintenance of cytoplasmic pH (pHi) within a narrow physiological range is crucial to normal cellular function. This is of particular relevance to phagocytic cells within the acidic inflammatory microenvironment where the pHi tends to be acid loaded. We have previously reported that a vacuolar-type H(+)-ATPase (V-ATPase) situated in the plasma membrane of macrophages and poised to extrude protons from the cytoplasmic to the extracellular space is an important pHi regulatory mechanism within the inflammatory milieu. Since this microenvironment is frequently characterized by the influx of cells known to release inflammatory cytokines, we performed studies to examine the effect of one such mediator molecule, interleukin-1 (IL-1), on pHi regulation in peritoneal macrophages. IL-1 caused a time- and dose-dependent increase in macrophage pHi recovery from an acute acid load. This effect was specific to IL-1 and was due to enhanced plasmalemmal V-ATPase activity. The increased V-ATPase activity by IL-1 occurred following a lag period of several hours and required de novo protein and mRNA synthesis. However, Northern blot analysis revealed that IL-1 did not exert its effect via alterations in the levels of mRNA transcripts for the A or B subunits of the V-ATPase complex. Finally, stimulation of both cAMP-dependent protein kinase and protein kinase C was required for the stimulatory effect of IL-1 on V-ATPase activity. Thus, cytokines present within the inflammatory milieu are able to modulate pHi regulatory mechanisms. These data may represent a novel mechanism whereby cytokines may improve cellular function at inflammatory sites.

Investigation of the inhibitory effects of PGE2 and selective EP agonists on chemotaxis of human neutrophils

1. The aims of this study were to investigate the inhibitory effects of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) on chemotaxis of N-formyl-methionyl-leucine-phenylalanine (FMLP)-stimulated human neutrophils, and to test the hypothesis that cyclic AMP is the second messenger involved. For this purpose, the inhibitory effect of selective EP agonists, and the modulatory effects of the adenylate cyclase inhibitor, SQ 22536, the protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitors H-89 and Rp-cAMPs, and the type IV phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors, rolipram and Ro20-1724 have been examined. 2. Chemotaxis has been measured using blindwell chambers. When human neutrophils were stimulated with FMLP (100 nM), PGE2 inhibited chemotaxis in a concentration-dependent manner (0.01-10 microM), with an EC50 of 90 +/- 24.5 nM, a maximum effect ranging from 45-75% and a mean inhibition of 64.5 +/- 2.4%. 3. The EP2-receptor agonists, 11-deoxy PGE1, butaprost and AH 13205 also inhibited chemotaxis. The order of potency of these agonists was PGE2 > butaprost (EC50 = 106.4 +/- 63 nM) > 11-deoxy PGE1 (EC50 = 140.9 +/- 64.7 nM) > AH 13205 (EC50 = 1.58 +/- 0.73 microM). Correlation of the ability of EP2 agonists to increase cyclic AMP and to inhibit chemotaxis was poor (r = 0.38). 4. The IP agonist, cicaprost gave similar increases in cyclic AMP to those achieved with PGE2, yet produced 50% of the maximum inhibition of chemotaxis observed with PGE2. 5. Slight potentiation of the inhibitory effects of PGE2 after type IV PDE block was observed with rolipram (EC50 for PGE2 = 57.2 +/- 5.9; 35.2 +/- 6.8 nM) but not Ro20-1724 (EC50 for PGE2 = 216.0 +/- 59.7; 97.8 +/- 50.6 nM). Type IV PDE inhibitors are themselves potent inhibitors of chemotaxis with EC50 values of 23.0 +/- 2.3 and 73.6 +/- 10.3 nM for rolipram and Ro20-1724, respectively. 6. Inhibition of cyclic AMP production with the adenylate cyclase inhibitor SQ 22,536 (0.1 mM) failed to antagonize inhibition of chemotaxis by PGE2 (EC50s for PGE2 of 57.2 +/- 5.9 and 56.8 +/- 27.3 nM, in the absence and presence of SQ 22,536, respectively) despite a reduction in the increase in cyclic AMP induced by PGE2. 7. Inhibition of PKA with either H-89 (10 microM) or Rp cyclic AMPS (10 microM) similarly failed to antagonize inhibition of chemotaxis by PGE2; EC50 for PGE2 of 90 +/- 40 and PGE2 + H-89 60 +/- 17 nM; PGE2 216.0 +/- 58.7 and PGE2 + Rp cyclic AMP 76.9 +/- 14.7 nM. 8. Of the two PKA inhibitors tested, H-89 (10 microM) and Rp cyclic AMPS (10 microM), the more effective inhibitor of PGE2-induced inhibition of neutrophil superoxide anion generation was H-89 (EC50s for PGE2 were 0.36 +/- 0.1 and > 10 microM, respectively). We have previously shown this to be a cyclic AMP-dependent effect of PGE2. 9. Confirmation of block of PKA by H-89 was suggested by the finding that H-89 blocked inhibition of superoxide anion generation observed with the type IV PDE inhibitors rolipram and Ro20-1724; EC50s of 12.9 +/- 8.9 nM for rolipram alone and rolipram+H-89 > 1 microM; Ro20-1724 alone 59.5 +/- 28.1 nM and Ro20-1724 + H-89 > 1 microM. 10. The results suggest that inhibition of chemotaxis by PGE2 and EP2 agonists is not mediated by increased neutrophil cyclic AMP levels.

Desensitization of the mu-opioid activation of phospholipase C in SH-SY5Y cells: the role of protein kinases C and A and Ca(2+)-activated K+ currents

1. In SH-SY5Y cells, mu-opioids cause a rapidly desensitizing activation of phospholipase C (PLC), that appears secondary to Ca2+ influx via L-type voltage-sensitive Ca2+ channels (VSCCs). The aim of the present study was to characterize the mechanisms of desensitization of the mu-opioid-induced inositol (1,4,5) triphosphate (Ins(1,4,5)P3) response, by use of a stereospecific radioreceptor mass assay. 2. (R+)-Bay K 8644 (1 nM-10 microM) dose-dependently inhibited fentanyl-induced Ins(1,4,5)P3 formation, with an IC50 of 28.5 nM, confirming our earlier observations that mu-opioids open L-type VSCCs, thus allowing Ca2+ influx to activate PLC. 3. Ro 31-8220 (0.1 nM-10 microM), a protein kinase C inhibitor, dose-dependently enhanced fentanyl-induced Ins(1,4,5)P3 formation (EC50 = 20.0 nM), whilst acute phorbol 12,13-dibutrate (1 microM) abolished the response. 4. H-89 (1 nM-10 microM), a protein kinase A inhibitor, also dose-dependently enhanced fentanyl-induced Ins(1,4,5)P3 formation (EC50 = 93 nM), whilst dibutryl cyclic AMP (0.5 mM) abolished the response. 5. Blockade of Ca(2+)-activated K+ currents with 4-aminopyridine (2 mM) or iberiotoxin (10 nM) had no effect on fentanyl-induced Ins(1,4,5)P3 formation but further increased the Ro 31-8220-enhanced response. 6. All three mechanisms had additive, or even supra-additive, effects, but only at later (120-300 s) time points. In addition, fentanyl-induced Ins(1,4,5)P3 formation, even if enhanced by H-89, Ro 31-8220 and/or 4-aminopyridine, was inhibited by nifedipine (1 nM-10 microM). 7. In conclusion, desensitization of the mu-opioid-induced activation of PLC is multifactorial, involving protein kinases C and A and Ca(2+)-activated K+ efflux, but the L-type VSCC is of critical importance and may be a possible common site of action.

Protein kinase A regulates the degradation rate of Rs acetylcholine receptors

Acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction of innervated vertebrate muscle (called Rs AChRs) have a stable degradation rate (t1/2 approximately 8-12 days) which accelerates after denervation to a half-life of approximately 3 days, but can be restabilized by reinnervation or by cAMP. We examined the mechanism by which cAMP regulates the Rs degradation rate. When dibutyryl cAMP (DB-cAMP) was applied to denervated mouse diaphragms in organ culture, it stabilized the accelerated degradation rate of the Rs. We found that this stabilization is reversible upon removal of the DB-cAMP, is cAMP specific and is mediated by intracellular cAMP. A major observation of this study is that the cAMP-induced stabilization of Rs AChRs is via protein kinase A (PKA), since H89, a PKA inhibitor, blocked the DB-cAMP induced stabilization of Rs, and H85, an analog of H89, which does not inhibit PKA but does inhibit other kinases as efficiently as H89, did not prevent the DB-cAMP-induced stabilization of Rs degradation. These results suggest that the cAMP messenger system via a PKA-dependent pathway could be among the mechanisms whereby the nerve regulates AChR degradation.

Adrenomedullin stimulates two signal transduction pathways, cAMP accumulation and Ca2+ mobilization, in bovine aortic endothelial cells

The biological action of adrenomedullin, a novel hypotensive peptide, on bovine aortic endothelial cells, was examined. The specific binding of adrenomedullin to these cells was observed, and adrenomedullin was found to induce intracellular cAMP accumulation in a dose-dependent manner. EC50 for the cAMP accumulation was about 100 times lower than the apparent IC50 for the binding assay. Adrenomedullin also induced increase of intracellular free Ca2+ in endothelial cells in a dose-dependent manner. The Ca2+ response to adrenomedullin was biphasic with an initial transient increase due to the release from thapsigargin-sensitive intracellular Ca2+ storage and a prolonged increase by influx through the ion channel on the plasma membrane. This intracellular free Ca2+ increase resulted from phospholipase C activation and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate formation, and seemed to cause nitric oxide synthase activation by monitoring intracellular cGMP accumulation. Both cAMP accumulation and Ca2+ increased responses to adrenomedullin were mediated by cholera toxin-sensitive G protein, but the two signal transduction pathways were independent. Thus, the results suggest that adrenomedullin elicits the hypotensive effect through at least two mechanisms, a direct action on vascular smooth muscle cells to increase intracellular cAMP and an action on endothelial cells to stimulate nitric oxide release, with both leading to vascular relaxation.

Modulation of calcium currents by a D1 dopaminergic protein kinase/phosphatase cascade in rat neostriatal neurons

In rat neostriatal neurons, D1 dopamine receptors regulate the activity of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) and protein phosphatase 1 (PP1). The influence of these signaling elements on high voltage-activated (HVA) calcium currents was studied using whole-cell voltage-clamp techniques. The application of D1 agonists or cyclic AMP analogs reversibly reduced N- and P-type Ca2+ currents. Inhibition of PKA antagonized this modulation, as did inhibition of PP1, suggesting that the D1 effect was mediated by a PKA enhancement of PP1 activity directed toward Ca2+ channels. In a subset of neurons, D1 receptor-mediated activation of PKA enhanced L-type currents. The differential regulation of HVA currents by the D1 pathway helps to explain the diversity of effects this pathway has on synaptic integration and plasticity in medium spiny neurons.

C-type natriuretic peptide stimulates secretion of growth hormone from rat-pituitary-derived GH3 cells via a cyclic-GMP-mediated pathway

Although C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) has been shown to exist at the highest concentration in the anterior pituitary in rat tissues, its physiological role(s) there is (are) not clear. In this study, we report a novel function of CNP examined with anterior pituitary-derived cell lines, GH3 and AtT20/D16v-F2. Both CNP and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) increased cellular cGMP levels in both cell lines in dose-dependent manners. CNP, but not ANP, stimulated growth hormone (GH) release from GH3 cells. In contrast, neither ANP nor CNP had any significant effect on the corticotropin release from AtT20/D16v-F2 cells. An activator for cGMP-dependent protein kinase (cGK), dibutyryl cGMP, mimicked the stimulation of GH release from GH3 cells by CNP. Constitutive GH release from GH3 cells was greatly diminished in the presence of inhibitors for cAMP-dependent protein kinase, while stimulative GH release by CNP was not affected. However, inhibitors which can block cGK almost completely diminished the stimulative effect of CNP. An inhibitor for protein kinase C did not show any effect on either constitutive or CNP-stimulative GH release. Our observations indicate that the stimulation of GH release from GH3 cells by CNP is mediated mainly by the cGK signal-transduction pathway, not by cAMP-dependent protein kinase or protein kinase C, through a CNP-specific receptor (possibly ANP-B receptor). Thus, CNP may act as a local modulator in the anterior pituitary.

Differential regulations of phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis in U937 cells by inhibitors of protein and tyrosine kinases

1. The differential effects of inhibitors of protein kinase (PK) or tyrosine kinase (TK) on phosphatidylcholine (PC) biosynthesis in monocyte-like U937 cells were compared in pulse-chase-studies in which the cells prelabelled with [3H]choline for 30 min were chased in the absence or presence of kinase inhibitors. 2. PKA inhibitor (H-89) decreased the label incorporation into PC, while PKA activator (8-BrcAMP) had no effect. 3. PKC inhibitors (chelerythrine and hypericin) inhibited PC biosynthesis; on the other hand, PKC activator (SC-10) was stimulatory. 4. The inhibition of PC biosynthesis by H-89 and chelerythrine was accompanied by the inactivation of CTP: cholinephosphate cytidylyltransferase (CT). 5. In contrast, TK inhibitor (genistein) markedly stimulated CT and PC biosynthesis, while erbstatin and tyrphostin No. 25 showed no effect.

Mechanism by which ethanol inhibits phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis in human leukemic monocyte-like U937 cells

A previous study showing that ethanol (ETOH) blocked [3H]choline incorporation into phosphatidylcholine (PC) suggested an inhibition of PC biosynthesis in human leukemic monocyte-like U937 cells. The mechanism of the inhibitory action of ETOH was investigated. Cells were pulsed with [3H]choline for 30 min and chased in the presence or absence of ETOH for up to 6 h. PC biosynthesis was inhibited drastically within 1 h after exposure to ETOH which increased intracellular cAMP appreciably. After a 3-h treatment, ETOH significantly inhibited both choline kinase (CK) and the cytosolic CTP: cholinephosphate cytidylyltransferase (CT). The inactivated CT was no longer stimulated by exogenous phosphatidylglycerol (PG). There was no evidence for redistribution of CT activity between cytosol and microsomes. When cells were exposed to 8-Bromo-cAMP ranging from 100 to 300 microM, PC biosynthesis remained unaffected despite the drastically elevated cAMP. These results seem to suggest that the raised cAMP is not a prerequisite for the inhibition of PC biosynthesis in U937 cells. Following pretreatment with protein kinase inhibitors (H-89 and K-252a), PC biosynthesis was decreased significantly and the inhibitory effect of ETOH was potentiated. Taken together, our results suggest that the inhibition of PC biosynthesis and the inhibitory effect of ETOH are independent of the activation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase. Unlike protein kinase inhibitors, pretreatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (erbstatin, genistein and tyrphostin 25) resulted in differential effects on PC biosynthesis and on the inhibitory action of ETOH. Genistein stimulated PC biosynthesis by 30 per cent as well as partially preventing/reversing the ETOH action, while tyrphostin 25 produced a synergistic inhibition. The relevance of tyrosine phosphorylation/dephosphorylation to the regulation of PC biosynthesis and ETOH action remains to be established.

N-[2-bromocinnamyl(amino)ethyl]-5-isoquinolinesulphonamide (H-89) inhibits incorporation of choline into phosphatidylcholine via inhibition of choline kinase and has no effect on the phosphorylation of CTP:phosphocholine cytidylyltransferase

We have shown previously that N-[2-bromocinnamyl(amino)-ethyl]-5-isoquinolinesulphonamide (H-89), a selective inhibitor of cyclic-AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), inhibits phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis in HeLa cells. In the present study, we elucidated the mechanism underlying the described inhibition. Treatment of cells with 10 microM H-89 had no effect on the phosphorylation of CTP:phosphocholine cytidylyltransferase. However, H-89 slightly affected the distribution of cytidylyltransferase between cytosol and membranes, but the cellular 1,2-diacylglycerol content was not influenced. Furthermore, pulse-chase experiments revealed that H-89 did not affect cytidylyltransferase activity. Instead, H-89 inhibited choline kinase, the enzyme catalysing the first step in the CDP-choline pathway. In the presence of 10 microM H-89, choline kinase activity was inhibited by 36 +/- 7.6% in vitro. Additionally, the phosphorylation of choline to phosphocholine was inhibited by 30 +/- 3% in cell-culture experiments. This inhibitory effect could be partly prevented by simultaneous addition of 10 microM forskolin, indicating that choline kinase is regulated in part by PKA activity.