Interleukin 1 activates jun N-terminal kinases JNK1 and JNK2 but not extracellular regulated MAP kinase (ERK) in human glomerular mesangial cells

Signaling Pathways Regulating IL-1α-induced COX-2 Expression

Interleukin-1α(IL-1α) stimulates the production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in odontogenic keratocyst fibroblasts. However, the signaling pathways remain obscure. In this study, we investigated IL-1αsignaling pathways that regulate cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in odontogenic keratocyst fibroblasts. IL-1αincreased the expression of COX-2 mRNA and protein, and PGE2 secretion in the fibroblasts. IL-1αincreased the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase-1/2 (ERK1/2), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). PD-98059, SB-203580, SP-600125, and PDTC—which are inhibitors of ERK1/2, p38, JNK, and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), respectively—attenuated the IL-1α-induced COX-2 mRNA expression and activated protein kinase C PGE2 secretion. IL-1α(PKC), and PKC inhibitor staurosporine inhibited IL-1α-induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2, p38, and JNK, and decreased IL-1α-induced COX-2 mRNA expression. Thus, in odontogenic keratocyst fibroblasts, IL-1αmay stimulate COX-2 expression both through the PKC-dependent activation of ERK1/2, p38, and JNK signaling pathways, and through the NF-κB cascade.

Protein expression profile of human renal mesangial cells under high glucose

BACKGROUND

To understand the spectrum of proteins affected by diabetic nephropathy and to characterize the molecular functions and biological processes they control, the protein expression profile of human renal mesangial cells (HMCs) under high glucose was analyzed.

METHODS

HMCs were divided into a high glucose-cultured group (30 mmol/l) and a normal glucose-cultured group (5 mmol/l). The total proteins of the two groups were separated and analyzed by two-dimensional difference gel electrophoresis (DIGE). Spots that were differentially expressed were picked and digested with trypsin and subjected to MALDI-TOF MS for protein identification.

RESULTS

147 protein spots whose expression levels were significantly increased or decreased more than 1.5-fold in HMCs under high glucose culture were identified. 32 proteins were identified by peptide mass fingerprinting. The protein spots of phosphatidylethanolamine-binding protein 1, granulysin, ATP synthase, H(+) transporter, mitochondrial F0 complex and subunit F2 were observed only in the high glucose group. The expression of 24 proteins was upregulated by high glucose, including eosinophil cationic protein and others. The expression of 5 proteins was downregulated by high glucose, including proteasome β6 subunit precursor, among others.

CONCLUSION

32 protein expressions of human glomerular mesangial cells were regulated by high glucose. In-depth analysis of these differentially expressed proteins' function and crosstalk is expected to provide an experimental basis for clarifying the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy.

Deactivation of STAT6 through serine 707 phosphorylation by JNK

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6), which plays a critical role in immune responses, is activated by interleukin-4 (IL-4). Activity of STAT family members is regulated primarily by tyrosine phosphorylations and possibly also by serine phosphorylations. Here, we report a previously undescribed serine phosphorylation of STAT6, which is activated by cell stress or by the pro-inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Our analyses suggest that Ser-707 is phosphorylated by c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). Phosphorylation decreases the DNA binding ability of IL-4-stimulated STAT6, thereby inhibiting the transcription of STAT6-responsive genes. Inactivation of STAT6 by JNK-dependent Ser-707 phosphorylation may be one mechanism of controlling the balance between IL-1β and IL-4 signals.

Regulation of catecholamine release and tyrosine hydroxylase in human adrenal chromaffin cells by interleukin-1beta: role of neuropeptide Y and nitric oxide

Adrenal chromaffin cells synthesize and secrete catecholamines and neuropeptides that may regulate hormonal and paracrine signaling in stress and also during inflammation. The aim of our work was to study the role of the cytokine interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) on catecholamine release and synthesis from primary cell cultures of human adrenal chromaffin cells. The effect of IL-1beta on neuropeptide Y (NPY) release and the intracellular pathways involved in catecholamine release evoked by IL-1beta and NPY were also investigated. We observed that IL-1beta increases the release of NPY, norepinephrine (NE), and epinephrine (EP) from human chromaffin cells. Moreover, the immunoneutralization of released NPY inhibits catecholamine release evoked by IL-1beta. Moreover, IL-1beta regulates catecholamine synthesis as the inhibition of tyrosine hydroxylase decreases IL-1beta-evoked catecholamine release and the cytokine induces tyrosine hydroxylase Ser40 phosphorylation. Moreover, IL-1beta induces catecholamine release by a mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-dependent mechanism, and by nitric oxide synthase activation. Furthermore, MAPK, protein kinase C (PKC), protein kinase A (PKA), and nitric oxide (NO) production are involved in catecholamine release evoked by NPY. Using human chromaffin cells, our data suggest that IL-1beta, NPY, and nitric oxide (NO) may contribute to a regulatory loop between the immune and the adrenal systems, and this is relevant in pathological conditions such as infection, trauma, stress, or in hypertension.

Interleukin-1 stimulates glutamate uptake in glial cells by accelerating membrane trafficking of Na+/K+-ATPase via actin depolymerization

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a mediator of brain injury induced by ischemia, trauma, and chronic neurodegenerative disease. IL-1 also has a protective role by preventing neuronal cell death from glutamate neurotoxicity. However, the cellular mechanisms of IL-1 action remain unresolved. In the mammalian retina, glutamate/aspartate transporter (GLAST) is a Na(+)-dependent, major glutamate transporter localized to Müller glial cells, and loss of GLAST leads to glaucomatous retinal degeneration (T. Harada, C. Harada, K. Nakamura, H. A. Quah, A. Okumura, K. Namekata, T. Saeki, M. Aihara, H. Yoshida, A. Mitani, and K. Tanaka, J. Clin. Investig. 117:1763-1770, 2007). We show here that IL-1 increases glutamate uptake in Müller cells by a mechanism that involves increased membrane Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase localization, required for counteracting the Na(+)-glutamate cotransport. IL-1 activated the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/capase 11 pathway, which destabilizes the actin cytoskeleton allowing Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase membrane redistribution. Furthermore, pretreatment with IL-1 protected retinal neurons from glutamate neurotoxicity through p38 MAPK signaling. Our observations suggested that IL-1 acts as a potential neuroprotective agent by modulating the functions of the glia-neuron network.

The type 1 interleukin 1 receptor is not required for the death of murine hippocampal dentate granule cells and microglia activation

Alterations in inflammatory process, neuronal death, and glia response have been observed under manipulation of interleukin-1 (IL-1) and subsequent signaling through the type 1 IL-1 receptor (IL-1R1). To investigate the influence of IL-1R1 activation in the pathophysiology of a chemical-induced injury to the murine hippocampus, we examined the level and pattern of neuronal death and neuroinflammation in male weanling mice exposed to trimethyltin hydroxide (2.0 mg TMT/kg, i.p.). Dentate granule cell death occurred at 6 h post-TMT as detected by active caspase 3 immunostaining and presence of lectin positive microglia. The severity of neuronal death and microglia response increased by 12-24 h with elevations in mRNA levels for TNFalpha and IL-1alpha. In IL-1R1 null (IL-1R1-/-) mice, the pattern and severity of neuronal death at 24 or 72 h post-TMT was similar as compared to wildtype (WT) mice. In both groups, mRNA levels for TNFalpha and MIP-1alpha were elevated, no significant change was seen in either IL-1alpha or IL-1beta, and the early activation of microglia, including their ability to progress to a phagocytic phenotype, was maintained. Compared to WT mice, IL-1R1-/- mice displayed a limited glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) astrocytic response, as well as a preferential induction in mRNA levels of Fas signaling components. Cumulatively, these results indicate that IL-1R1 activation is not necessary for TMT-induced death of dentate granule neurons or local activation of microglia; however, IL-1R1 signaling is involved in mediating the structural response of astrocytes to injury and may regulate apoptotic mechanisms via Fas signaling components.

TBP is differentially regulated by c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1 (JNK1) and JNK2 through Elk-1, controlling c-Jun expression and cell proliferation

Emerging evidence supports the idea that the c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNKs) possess overlapping but distinct functions. The potential roles of the ubiquitously expressed JNK1 and JNK2 in regulating expression of the central transcription initiation factor, TATA-binding protein (TBP), were examined. Relative to wild-type fibroblasts, TBP was decreased in Jnk1(-/-) cells and increased in Jnk2(-/-) cells. Similarly, reduction of JNK1 in human hepatoma cells decreased TBP expression, whereas reduction of JNK2 enhanced it. JNK-mediated regulation of TBP expression occurs at the transcriptional level through their ability to target Elk-1, which directly regulates the TBP promoter in response to epidermal growth factor stimulation. JNK1 increases, whereas JNK2 decreases, the phosphorylation state of Elk-1, which differentially affects Elk-1 occupancy at a defined site within the TBP promoter. These JNK-mediated alterations in TBP expression, alone, serve to regulate c-Jun expression and fibroblast proliferation rates. These studies uncovered several new molecular events that distinguish the functions of JNK1 and JNK2 that are critical for their regulation of cellular proliferation.

Mycophenolate mofetil slows progression in anti-thy1-induced chronic renal fibrosis but is not additive to a high dose of enalapril

Tubulointerstitial inflammation and fibrosis are hallmarks of chronic progressive renal diseases. To characterize the functional interaction between cell infiltration and matrix expansion, this study compared the immunosuppressant mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), intended as primarily anti-inflammatory intervention, the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor enalapril, intended as primarily an anti-fibrotic drug, and a combination of both as anticipated anti-inflammatory/anti-fibrotic intervention. The model used was anti-thy1-induced chronic-progressive glomerulosclerosis (cGS) in the rat, where a brief anti-thy1-induced glomerular injury progresses spontaneously toward tubulointerstitial fibrosis and renal insufficiency. cGS was induced by injection of anti-thy1 antibody into uninephrectomized Wistar rats. One week after disease induction, animals were randomly assigned to the following groups: cGS, cGS plus MMF (20 mg·kg body wt−1·day−1), cGS plus high-dose enalapril (12 mg·kg body wt−1·day−1), and cGS plus both. At week 16 after disease induction, MMF or enalapril alone reduced signs of chronic renal disease significantly and similarly compared with the untreated cGS group. Variables measured included proteinuria, blood pressure, tubulointerstitial and glomerular matrix accumulation, expression of transforming growth factor-β1, fibronectin, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, infiltration of lymphocytes and macrophages, plasma creatinine and urea levels, and glomerular filtration rate. Combined MMF and enalapril treatment was not superior to single therapy. In conclusion, MMF slows the progression of chronic renal fibrosis and renal insufficiency as effectively as high-dose enalapril in the anti-thy1-induced chronic-progressive glomerulosclerosis model. The dual anti-inflammatory/anti-fibrotic intervention does not yield additive renoprotective effects, indicating that MMF and enalapril interfere with similar or very closely related pathways involved in progression of renal disease.

Activation of p38 plays a pivotal role in the inhibitory effect of lipopolysaccharide and interleukin-1 beta on long term potentiation in rat dentate gyrus

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a component of the cell wall of Gram-negative bacteria, has been shown to induce profound changes both peripherally and centrally. It has recently been reported that intraperitoneal injection of LPS inhibited long term potentiation (LTP) in perforant path-granule cell synapses and that this effect was coupled with an increase in the concentration of the proinflammatory cytokine, interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta). The LPS-induced effects were abrogated by inhibition of caspase-1, suggesting that IL-1 beta may mediate the effects of LPS. Here we report that the inhibition of LTP induced by LPS and IL-1 beta was coupled with stimulation of the stress-activated protein kinase p38 in hippocampus and entorhinal cortex and that this effect was abrogated by the p38 inhibitor SB203580, while the effect of LPS was markedly attenuated in C57BL/6 IL-1RI-/- mice. The data also indicate that activation of the transcription factor, nuclear factor kappa B (NF kappa B), may play a role, since the inhibitory effect of LPS and IL-1 beta on LTP was attenuated by the NF kappa B inhibitor, SN50; consistently, LPS and IL-1 beta led to activation of NF kappa B in entorhinal cortex. We suggest that one consequence of these LPS and IL-1 beta-induced changes is a compromise in glutamate release in dentate gyrus, which was coupled with the inhibition of LTP. The evidence is consistent with the idea that the LPS-induced impairment in LTP is mediated by IL-1 beta and is a consequence of activation of p38.

Bone morphogenetic protein-7 inhibits constitutive and interleukin-1 beta-induced monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 expression in human mesangial cells: role for JNK/AP-1 pathway

Bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7), which belongs to the TGF-beta superfamily, has been shown to reduce macrophage infiltration and tissue injury in animal models of inflammatory renal disease. To explore the mechanism involved in the anti-inflammatory effect, we investigated the effect of BMP-7 on monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) expression in cultured human mesangial cells. BMP- 7 significantly inhibited constitutive and IL-1 beta-induced MCP-1 protein production and MCP-1 mRNA expression by mesangial cells in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. BMP-7 also inhibited IL-1 beta-induced monocyte chemotactic activity released from the mesangial cells. We examined the role of transcription factors NF-kappa B and AP-1 in BMP-7 inhibition of IL-1 beta-induced MCP-1 expression. IL-1 beta increased NF-kappa B and AP-1 activity and both transcription factors mediated IL-1 beta-induced MCP-1 expression in mesangial cells. BMP-7 inhibited IL-1 beta-induced AP-1 activity in a concentration-dependent manner. In contrast, IL-1 beta-induced NF-kappa B activity and I kappa B alpha degradation were not affected by BMP-7. Furthermore, IL-1 beta-induced phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase was inhibited by BMP-7. These data suggest that BMP-7 inhibits constitutive and IL-1 beta-induced MCP-1 expression in human mesangial cells partly by inhibiting c-Jun N-terminal kinase activity and subsequent AP-1 activity, and provide new insight into the therapeutic potential of BMP-7 in the inflammatory renal diseases.

Activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases in experimental cerebral ischemia

OBJECTIVES

Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) regulate cell survival and differentiation. The aim of the present study is to investigate the activation pattern of different MAPKs [extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38] after cerebral ischemia.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Rats were subjected to cerebral ischemia using a model for transient (2 h) and permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). The rats were allowed 6 h to 1 week of survival before immunohistochemical evaluation with phospho-specific antibodies, recognizing activated MAPKs.

RESULTS

ERK was activated in ipsilateral blood vessels, neurons and glia, but also in contralateral vessels. JNK activation was absent in neurons but appeared in arterial blood vessels and glia at the lesion side. Active p38 was observed in macrophages in maturing infarcts.

CONCLUSIONS

ERK and JNK may participate in the angiogenic response to cerebral ischemia. ERK, but not JNK, was activated in neurons, possibly indicating a pathophysiologic role. Active p38 might be involved in the inflammatory reaction.

The age-related increase in IL-1 type I receptor in rat hippocampus is coupled with an increase in caspase-3 activation

Evidence from several studies indicates that expression of interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) and IL-1 type I receptor is particularly high in hippocampus, and it has recently been shown that the concentration of IL-1beta is increased in the hippocampus of the aged rat. Here we report that this increase is coupled with an increase in expression of IL-1 type I receptor and increased activity of IL-1 receptor-associated kinase. The evidence presented indicates that the age-related increase in activity of the mitogen-activated protein kinases, Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38, was accompanied by enhanced caspase-3 activity. Analysis of colocalization of activated caspase-3 with activated p38 (p-p38) suggested that p-p38 was necessary for activation of caspase-3; while in vitro analysis indicated that the IL-1beta-induced increase in caspase-3 activity was abrogated by the p38 inhibitor, SB203580. The IL-1beta-induced increase in caspase-3 activity in vitro was also abrogated by vasoactive intestinal peptide, which is a JNK inhibitor; however, colocalization of activated JNK (p-JNK) and activated caspase-3 did not clearly identify JNK as an upstream activator of caspase-3. We propose that these changes are indicative of cell death in aged hippocampus and suggest that they contribute to the age-related decrease in long-term potentiation in perforant path granule cell synapses.

Interleukin-1 beta exerts a myriad of effects in the brain and in particular in the hippocampus: analysis of some of these actions

The realization, in the past decade or so, that bidirectional communication between the central nervous system and the immune system was likely has sparked an explosion of interest in the roles certain cytokines, particularly the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta), might play in the brain. The observation that IL-1 type I receptor was expressed in highest density in the hypothalamus was of significance in identifying a role for IL-1 beta in neuroendocrine modulation. However, the finding that receptor expression was also high in the hippocampus, an area of the brain which plays a pivotal role in memory and learning, has led to uncovering a role for IL-1 beta in cognitive function. There is now a great deal of evidence suggesting that IL-1 beta plays a significant role in hippocampal synaptic function, and the possibility that IL-1 beta may trigger some of the detrimental changes in certain neurodegenerative diseases is currently being assessed. The review addresses some of the issues relating to the role of IL-1 beta in the brain, specifically in the hippocampus.

Regulation of COX-2 expression in human intestinal myofibroblasts: mechanisms of IL-1-mediated induction

Elevated mucosal interleukin-1 (IL-1) levels are frequently seen during acute and chronic intestinal inflammation, and IL-1 neutralization lessens the severity of inflammation. One major effect of IL-1 is the increased release of eicosanoid mediators via induction of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). One site of COX-2-derived prostaglandin synthesis during acute and chronic intestinal inflammation is the intestinal myofibroblast. COX-2 expression has also been documented in these cells in colonic neoplasms. Thus an understanding of the regulation of COX-2 expression in human intestinal myofibroblasts is important. As an initial step toward this goal we have characterized IL-1alpha signaling pathways that induce COX-2 expression in cultured human intestinal myofibroblasts. IL-1 treatment resulted in a dramatic transcriptional induction of COX-2 gene expression. Activation of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB), extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK), p38, and protein kinase C (PKC) signaling pathways was each necessary for optimal COX-2 induction. In contrast to what occurs in other cell types, including other myofibroblasts such as renal mesangial cells, PKC inhibition did not prevent IL-1-induced NF-kappaB or mitogen activated protein kinase/ stress-activated protein kinase activation, suggesting a novel role for PKC isoforms during this process. The stimulatory effects of PKC, NF-kappaB, ERK-1/2, and presumably c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase activation were exerted at the transcriptional level, whereas p38 activation resulted in increased stability of the COX-2 message. We conclude that, in intestinal myofibroblasts, IL-1-mediated induction of COX-2 expression is a complex process that requires input from multiple signaling pathways. Each parallel pathway acts in relative autonomy, the sum of their actions culminating in a dramatic increase in COX-2 transcription and message stability.

The anti-inflammatory cytokine, interleukin (IL)-10, blocks the inhibitory effect of IL-1 beta on long term potentiation. A role for JNK

Several effects of the proinflammatory cytokine, interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta), have been described in the central nervous system, and one area of the brain where marked changes have been reported is the hippocampus. Among these changes are an IL-1 beta-induced inhibition of long term potentiation (LTP) in perforant path-granule cell synapses and an attenuation of glutamate release in synaptosomes prepared from the hippocampus. Evidence suggests that, at least in circulating cells, the anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-10, antagonizes certain effects of IL-1. We investigated the effect of IL-10 on IL-1 beta-induced inhibition of LTP and glutamate release. The evidence presented indicates that IL-1 beta stimulates the stress-activated protein kinase, c-Jun-activated protein kinase (JNK), and IL-1 receptor-associated kinase, which may explain its inhibitory effect on release and LTP, and that IL-10 reversed the IL-1 beta-induced stimulation of JNK activity and inhibition of release and LTP. We observed that IL-10 abrogated the stimulatory effect of IL-1 beta on superoxide dismutase activity and reactive oxygen species production, whereas the H(2)O(2)-induced inhibition of LTP was also blocked by IL-10. We present evidence that suggests that the action of IL-10 may be mediated by its ability to induce shedding of the IL-1 type I receptor.

Interleukin-1beta-dependent changes in the hippocampus following parenteral immunization with a whole cell pertussis vaccine

Neurological side effects are a major cause of concern following immunization with a number of vaccines, especially the whole cell pertussis vaccine (Pw). In this study we report that IL-1beta concentrations were significantly increased in the hippocampus following subcutaneous (s.c.) injection of Pw, and that this was accompanied by increased activity of the stress-activated kinase, c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK) and a decrease in glutamate release. These effects were mimicked by s.c injection of active pertussis toxin (PT) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Incubation of hippocampal synaptosomes in the presence of Pw, PT or LPS also resulted in increased JNK activation and decreased glutamate release, effects which were mimicked by IL-1beta and blocked by the IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-ra). Our observations are consistent with the hypothesis that IL-1beta induced by active bacterial toxins present in vaccine preparations, mediate the neurochemical and perhaps the neurological effects of Pw.

The inhibitory effect of interleukin-1beta on long-term potentiation is coupled with increased activity of stress-activated protein kinases

Long-term potentiation (LTP) in perforant path-granule cell synapses is decreased in aged rats, stressed rats, and rats injected intracerebroventricularly with the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta). One factor that is common to these experimental conditions is an increase in the concentration of IL-1beta in the dentate gyrus, suggesting a causal relationship between the compromise in LTP and increased IL-1beta concentration. In this study, we have investigated the downstream consequences of an increase in IL-1beta concentration and report that the reduced LTP in rats injected intracerebroventricularly with IL-1beta was accompanied by a decrease in KCl-stimulated glutamate release in synaptosomes prepared from dentate gyrus, although unstimulated glutamate release was increased. These changes were paralleled by increased activity of the stress-activated kinases, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase. Intracerebroventricular injection of IL-1beta increased reactive oxygen species production in hippocampal tissue, whereas IL-1beta and H(2)O(2) increased activities of both JNK and p38 in vitro. Dietary manipulation with antioxidant vitamins E and C blocked the increase in reactive oxygen species production, the stimulation of JNK and p38 activity, the attenuation of glutamate release, and the IL-1beta-induced inhibitory of LTP. We propose that IL-1beta stimulates activity of stress-activated kinases, which in turn may inhibit glutamate release and result in compromised LTP and that these actions are a consequence of increased production of reactive oxygen species.

MAPK signaling and the kidney

Following an overview of the biochemistry of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, the relevance of these signaling events to specific models of renal cell function and pathophysiology, both in vitro and in vivo, will be emphasized. In in vitro model systems, events activating the principal MAPK families [extracellular signal-regulated and c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase and p38] have been best characterized in mesangial and tubular epithelial cell culture systems and include peptide mitogens, cytokines, lipid mediators, and physical stressors. Several in vivo models of proliferative or toxic renal injury are also associated with aberrant MAPK regulation. It is anticipated that elucidation of downstream effector signaling mechanisms and a clearer understanding of the immediate and remote upstream activating pathways, when applied to these highly clinically relevant model systems, will ultimately provide much greater insight into the basis for specificity now seemingly absent from these signaling events.

The recruitment of the interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor-associated kinase (IRAK) into focal adhesion complexes is required for IL-1beta -induced ERK activation

The interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor colocalizes with focal adhesion complexes (FACs), actin-enriched structures involved in cell adhesion and signaling in fibroblasts and chondrocytes. The colocalization of FACs and IL-1 receptors has been implicated in the restriction of IL-1 signaling transduction to ERK; however, the mechanism of this restriction and the requirement of IL-1 receptor-associated proteins have not been characterized. We determined if the association kinetics of the interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase (IRAK) colocalizes with FACs and the requirement for IRAK in IL-1-dependent ERK activation. Human gingival fibroblasts were incubated with collagen-coated beads to induce the assembly of FACs at sites of cell-bead contact. Immunoblot analysis of bead-isolated FACs showed a time-dependent assembly of the focal adhesion proteins beta-actin, vinculin, and talin, which was blocked by the actin monomer sequestering toxin latrunculin B. Although no IRAK was isolated with FACs from unstimulated cells, phosphorylated IRAK was transiently associated with FACs isolated from IL-1beta-stimulated fibroblasts. Fibroblasts plated on tissue culture plastic (which permitted the formation of focal adhesions) showed phosphorylation of ERK, JNK, and p38. Cells plated on poly-l-lysine (to prevent the formation of focal adhesions) showed activation only of JNK and p38. ERK activation was partially restored by incubating cells plated on poly-l-lysine with collagen-coated beads before IL-1 stimulation. Cells treated with latrunculin B or swinholide A, which caused a progressive depolymerization of actin filaments, showed a reduction or elimination of IL-1-induced ERK activation, respectively. Fibroblasts electroinjected with a mouse monoclonal anti-IRAK antibody to block the recruitment of IRAK into FACs failed to activate ERK after IL-1 treatment, indicating that FAC-associated IRAK is required for the activation of ERK. These data indicate that the integrity of actin filament arrays and the recruitment of IRAK into focal adhesions are involved in the restriction of IL-1 signaling to ERK.

Age-related impairment in LTP is accompanied by enhanced activity of stress-activated protein kinases: analysis of underlying mechanisms

The age-related impairment in long-term potentiation in the rat dentate gyrus is coupled with an increase in the proinflammatory cytokine, interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta). It is possible that this increase in IL-1beta might be a consequence of the age-related increase in reactive oxygen species production in hippocampal tissue. In this study we set out to identify the underlying cause of the age-related increase in reactive oxygen species production and to establish whether any consequences of such a change might impact on the ability of aged rats to sustain long-term potentiation (LTP). We report that there was an age-related increase in the activity of superoxide dismutase but no parallel increases in activities of glutathione peroxidase or catalase, while age-related decreases in the concentration of the scavengers, vitamins E and C and glutathione were also observed. We propose that these compromises in antioxidative strategies may result in an increase in reactive oxygen species production. The data described indicate that IL-1beta and H2O2 increase the activity of two stress-activated mitogen-activated protein kinases, c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 in vitro, while age-related increases in both kinases were observed. We propose that the endogenous increase in these parameters which occurs with age induces the increase in activity of the stress-activated kinases, which in turn impacts on the ability of the aged rat to sustain LTP.

Role of ERK MAP kinases in responses of cultured human airway smooth muscle cells to IL-1beta

We have previously reported that interleukin (IL)-1beta causes beta-adrenergic hyporesponsiveness in cultured human airway smooth muscle cells by increasing cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression and prostanoid formation. The purpose of this study was to determine whether extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs) are involved in these events. Levels of phosphorylated ERK (p42 and p44) increased 8.3- and 13-fold, respectively, 15 min after treatment with IL-1beta (20 ng/ml) alone. Pretreating cells with the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase inhibitor PD-98059 or U-126 (2 h before IL-1beta treatment) decreased ERK phosphorylation. IL-1beta (20 ng/ml for 22 h) alone caused a marked induction of COX-2 and increased basal PGE(2) release 28-fold (P < 0.001). PD-98059 (100 microM) and U-126 (10 microM) each decreased COX-2 expression when administered before IL-1beta treatment. In control cells, PD-98059 and U-126 had no effect on basal or arachidonic acid (AA; 10 microM)-stimulated PGE(2) release, but both inhibitors caused a significant decrease in bradykinin (BK; 1 microM)-stimulated PGE(2) release, consistent with a role for ERK in the activation of phospholipase A(2) by BK. In IL-1beta-treated cells, prior administration of PD-98059 caused 81, 92 and 40% decreases in basal and BK- and AA-stimulated PGE(2) release, respectively (P < 0.01), whereas administration of PD-98059 20 h after IL-1beta resulted in only 38 and 43% decreases in basal and BK-stimulated PGE(2) release, respectively (P < 0.02) and had no effect on AA-stimulated PGE(2) release. IL-1beta attenuated isoproterenol-induced decreases in human airway smooth muscle stiffness as measured by magnetic twisting cytometry, and PD-98059 or U-126 abolished this effect in a concentration-dependent manner. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that ERKs are involved early in the signal transduction pathway through which IL-1beta induces PGE(2) synthesis and beta-adrenergic hyporesponsiveness and that ERKs act by inducing COX-2 and activating phospholipase A(2).

Nitric oxide in septic shock

Septic shock is a major cause of death following trauma and is a persistent problem in surgical patients throughout the world. It is characterised by hypotension and vascular collapse, with a failure of the major organs within the body. The role of excessive nitric oxide (NO) production, following the cytokine-dependent induction of the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), in the development of septic shock is discussed. Emphasis is placed upon the signal-transduction process by which iNOS is induced and the role of NO in cellular energy dysfunction and the abnormal function of the cardiovascular system and liver during septic shock.

Interleukin-1 stimulates Jun N-terminal/stress-activated protein kinase by an arachidonate-dependent mechanism in mesangial cells

BACKGROUND

We have studied interleukin-1 (IL-1)-stimulated signals and gene expression in mesangial cells (MCs) to identify molecular mechanisms of MC activation, a process characteristic of glomerular inflammation. The JNK1 pathway has been implicated in cell fate decisions, and IL-1 stimulates the Jun N-terminal/stress-activated protein kinases (JNK1/SAPK). However, early postreceptor mechanisms by which IL-1 activates these enzymes remain unclear. Free arachidonic acid (AA) activates several protein kinases, and because IL-1 rapidly stimulates phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity release AA, IL-1-induced activation of JNK1/SAPK may be mediated by AA release.

METHODS

MCs were grown from collagenase-treated glomeruli, and JNK/SAPK activity in MC lysates was determined using an immunocomplex kinase assay.

RESULT

Treatment of MCs with IL-1 alpha induced a time-dependent increase in JNK1/SAPK kinase activity, assessed by phosphorylation of the activating transcription factor-2 (ATF-2). Using similar incubation conditions, IL-1 also increased [3H]AA release from MCs. Pretreatment of MCs with aristolochic acid, a PLA2 inhibitor, concordantly reduced IL-1-regulated [3H]AA release and JNK1/SAPK activity, suggesting that cytosolic AA in part mediates IL-1-induced JNK1/SAPK activation. Addition of AA stimulated JNK1/SAPK activity in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. This effect was AA specific, as only AA and its precursor linoleic acid stimulated JNK1/SAPK activity. Other fatty acids failed to activate JNK1/SAPK. Pretreatment of MCs with specific inhibitors of AA oxidation by cyclooxygenase, lipoxygenase, and cytochrome P-450 epoxygenase had no effect on either IL-1- or AA-induced JNK1/SAPK activation. Furthermore, stimulation of MCs with the exogenous cyclooxygenase-, lipoxygenase-, phosphodiesterase-, and epoxygenase-derived arachidonate metabolites, in contrast to AA itself, did not activate JNK1/SAPK.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that IL-1-stimulated AA release, in part, mediates stimulation of JNK1/SAPK activity and that AA activates JNK1/SAPK by a mechanism that does not require enzymatic oxygenation. JNK1 signaling pathway components may provide molecular switches that mediate structural rearrangements and biochemical processes characteristic of MC activation and could provide a novel target(s) for therapeutic intervention.

Stress-activated protein kinase/Jun N-terminal kinase is required for interleukin (IL)-1-induced IL-6 and IL-8 gene expression in the human epidermal carcinoma cell line KB

The cytokine interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a major inflammatory hormone which activates a broad range of genes during inflammation. The signaling mechanisms triggered by IL-1 include activation of several distinct protein kinase systems. The stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK), also termed Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), is activated particularly strongly by the cytokine. In an attempt to delineate its role in activation of gene expression by IL-1, we inhibited the IL-1-induced SAPK/JNK activity by stable overexpression of either a catalytically inactive mutant of SAPKbeta (SAPKbeta(K-R)) or antisense RNA to SAPKbeta in human epidermal carcinoma cells. A detailed analysis of signal transduction in those cells showed that activation of neither NFkappaB nor p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase was affected, suggesting that we achieved specific blockade of the SAPK/JNK. In untransfected and vector-transfected KB cells, IL-1 induced a strong increase in expression of IL-6 and IL-8 mRNA, along with the synthesis of high amounts of the proteins. In two KB cell clones stably overexpressing the mutant SAPKbeta(K-R), and three clones stably overexpressing antisense RNA to SAPKbeta, expression of IL-6 and IL-8 in response to IL-1 was strongly reduced at both the mRNA and protein level. These data indicate that the SAPK/JNK pathway provides an indispensable signal for IL-1-induced expression of IL-6 and IL-8.

Interleukin-1beta-induced rat pancreatic islet nitric oxide synthesis requires both the p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 mitogen-activated protein kinases

Interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) is cytotoxic to rat pancreatic beta-cells by inhibiting glucose oxidation, causing DNA damage and inducing apoptosis. Nitric oxide (NO) is a necessary but not sufficient mediator of these effects. IL-1beta induced kinase activity toward Elk-1, activation transcription factor 2, c-Jun, and heat shock protein 25 in rat islets. By Western blotting with phosphospecific antibodies and by immunocomplex kinase assay, IL-1beta was shown to activate extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38) in islets and rat insulinoma cells. Specific ERK1/2 and p38 inhibitors individually reduced but in combination blocked IL-1beta-mediated islet NO synthesis, and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction of inducible NO synthase mRNA showed that ERK1/2 and p38 controlled IL-1beta-induced islet inducible NO synthase expression at the transcriptional level. Hyperosmolarity caused phosphorylation of Elk-1, activation transcription factor 2, and heat shock protein 25 and activation of ERK1/2 and p38 in islets comparable to that induced by IL-1beta but did not lead to NO synthesis. Inhibition of p38 but not of ERK1/2 attenuated IL-1beta-mediated inhibition of glucose-stimulated insulin release. We conclude that ERK1/2 and p38 activation is necessary but not sufficient for IL-1beta-mediated beta-cell NO synthesis and that p38 is involved in signaling of NO-independent effects of IL-1beta in beta-cells.

Antibodies to Domains II and III of the IL-1 Receptor Accessory Protein Inhibit IL-1β Activity But Not Binding: Regulation of IL-1 Responses Is Via Type I Receptor, Not the Accessory Protein

The IL-1R accessory protein (IL-1RAcP) plays a role in IL-1R signaling by forming a complex with IL-1RI bound to the IL-1 ligand. We identified four hydrophilic peptide regions of the extracellular IL-1RAcP that may be available for complex formation (peptide 1, 71–83 domain I; peptide 2, 204–211 domain II; peptide 3, 282–292 domain III; and peptide 4, 304–314 domain III). These peptides were synthesized, coupled to keyhole limpet hemocyanin, and used to produce rabbit antisera. Each affinity-purified antiserum showed specificity for the respective peptide without cross-reactivity. Anti-peptide 2, 3, and 4 recognized surface expression of IL-1RAcP on the Th2 D10S cells by FACS and inhibited IL-1-driven proliferation. Anti-peptide 4 recognized intact IL-1RAcP and soluble IL-1RAcP. Anti-IL-1RAcP-peptide 4, which targets the terminal segment of domain III, inhibited 80% of IL-1β-driven proliferation of D10S cells. However, these IL-1RAcP Abs had no effect on the activity of human or mouse IL-1α. Whereas IL-1β down-regulated IL-1RI surface expression (p &lt; 0.05), there was no change in the surface expression of IL-1RAcP. Moreover, murine IL-10 increased surface expression of IL-1RI, but did not affect expression of IL-1RAcP or the proliferation of D10S cells. Steady state levels of mRNA for IL-1RAcP and IL-1RI in D10S cells showed a similar pattern to that of surface expression of the respective receptors. We conclude that 1) blocking IL-1RAcP inhibits IL-1 signaling in D10S cells, 2) domains-II and III may be involved in complex formation with IL-1RI, 3) IL-1RAcP is not regulated as is IL-1RI in the same cells, and 4) IL-1 responsiveness is dependent on the expression of IL-1RI, not IL-1RAcP.

Budesonide epimer R or dexamethasone selectively inhibit platelet-activating factor-induced or interleukin 1beta-induced DNA binding activity of cis-acting transcription factors and cyclooxygenase-2 gene expression in human epidermal keratinocytes

To further understand the molecular mechanism of glucocorticoid action on gene expression, DNA-binding activities of the cis-acting transcription factors activator protein 1 (AP1), AP2, Egr1 (zif268), NF-kappaB, the signal transducers and activators of transcription proteins gamma interferon activation site (GAS), Sis-inducible element, and the TATA binding protein transcription factor II D (TFIID) were examined in human epidermal keratinocytes. The cytokine interleukin 1beta (IL-1beta) and platelet-activating factor (PAF), both potent mediators of inflammation, were used as triggers for gene expression. Budesonide epimer R (BUDeR) and dexamethasone (DEX) were studied as potential antagonists. BUDeR or DEX before IL-1beta- or PAF-mediated gene induction elicited strong inhibition of AP1-, GAS-, and in particular NF-kappaB-DNA binding (P < 0.001, ANOVA). Only small effects were noted on AP2, Egr1 (zif268), and Sis-inducible element-DNA binding (P > 0.05). No significant effect was noted on the basal transcription factor TFIID recognition of TATA-containing core promoter sequences (P > 0.68). To test the hypothesis that changing cis-acting transcription factor binding activity may be involved in inflammatory-response related gene transcription, RNA message abundance for human cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and -2 (E.C.1.14.99.1) was assessed in parallel by using reverse transcription-PCR. Although the COX-1 gene was found to be expressed at constitutively low levels, the TATA-containing COX-2 gene, which contains AP1-like, GAS, and NF-kappaB DNA-binding sites in its immediate promoter, was found to be strongly induced by IL-1beta or PAF (P < 0.001). BUDeR and DEX both suppressed COX-2 RNA message generation; however, no correlation was associated with TFIID-DNA binding. These results suggest that on stimulation by mediators of inflammation, although the basal transcription machinery remains intact, modulation of cis-activating transcription factor AP1, GAS, and NF-kappaB-DNA binding by the glucocorticoids BUDeR and DEX play important regulatory roles in the extent of specific promoter activation and hence the expression of key genes involved in the inflammatory response.

Inflammatory cytokines induce the expression of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) isoforms required for the growth of Kaposi's sarcoma and endothelial cells through the activation of AP-1 response elements in the bFGF promoter

BACKGROUND

The growth of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) spindle cells is dependent on a number of inflammatory cytokines as well as the autocrine growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). Moreover, inflammatory cytokines, found at increased levels in KS lesions, promote bFGF production in KS and endothelial cells.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the induction of bFGF isoforms, role of bFGF in cell growth and activation of the bFGF promoter by inflammatory cytokines.

DESIGN AND METHOD

3H-Thymidine uptake, bFGF immunoblotting and transfection of dominant-negative MAP kinase components were used to study the effect of cytokines on the bFGF promoter, bFGF isoform expression and proliferation of KS cells.

RESULTS

Treatment with oncostatin M (OSM), interleukin (IL)-1 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha induced the expression of 18, 22 and 24 kDa bFGF isoforms in KS and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). Antisense bFGF oligonucleotides interfered in the induction of KS cell proliferation by individual cytokines. OSM, IL-1 and TNF-alpha induced the transcriptional activation of a bFGF promoter reporter gene in parallel with the activation of an AP-1 reporter. Dominant-negative ERK and dominant-negative JNK mutants interfered in cytokine-induced activation of these reporters in accordance with the role of the MAP kinase cascades in individual cytokine signaling pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

OSM, IL-1 and TNF-alpha induce KS cell growth by inducing the expression of various bFGF isoforms. Moreover, bFGF production by KS and HUVEC is dependent on the activation of the ERK and JNK cascades, which result in the transcriptional activation of the bFGF promoter.

Nuclear and non-nuclear targets of genotoxic agents in the induction of gene expression. Shared principles in yeast, rodents, man and plants

The interplay between environmental cues and the genetic response is decisive for the development, health and well-being of an organism. For some environmental factors a narrow margin separates beneficial and toxic impacts. With the increasing exposure to UV-B this dichotomy has reached public attention. This review will be concerned with the mechanisms that mediate a cellular genetic response to noxious agents. The toxic stimuli find access to the regulatory network inside cells by interacting at several points with cellular molecules - a process that converts the 'outside information' into 'cellular language'. As a consequence of such interactions, many adverse agents cause massive signal transduction and changes of gene expression. There is an interesting conservation of the mechanisms from yeast to man. An understanding of the genetic programs and of their phenotypic consequences is lagging behind.

The interleukin-1 receptor accessory protein (IL-1RAcP) is essential for IL-1-induced activation of interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase (IRAK) and stress-activated protein kinases (SAP kinases)

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a central mediator of the immune system involved in acute and chronic inflammatory responses. Although the sequences of two types of IL-1 receptors are known, the exact molecular events resulting in signal transduction and coupling to downstream signaling elements remain unclear. The recently cloned IL-1 receptor accessory protein (IL-1RAcP) has been suggested as a co-receptor molecule for IL-1RI, supported by the observation that its expression correlates to IL-1 responsiveness. We transfected the EL-4 subline D6/76 with IL-1RAcP cDNA. This cell line is an IL-1 non-responder expressing IL-1RI but lacking constitutive IL-1RAcP expression. The expression of IL-1RAcP in EL-4 D6/76 was sufficient to restore IL-1-induced activation of interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase and of stress-activated protein kinases, translocation of the transcription factors NFkappaB and IL-1 NF to the nucleus, and induction of IL-2 mRNA synthesis. These results proved that IL-1RAcP is an indispensible molecule in the IL-1 receptor signal transduction complex, necessary to link events on the plasma membrane level to downstream signaling pathways, allowing IL-1-dependent activation of transcription factors and gene expression.