Evidence that microtubule depolymerization early in the cell cycle is sufficient to initiate DNA synthesis

Cardiac regeneration and remodelling of the cardiomyocyte cytoarchitecture

Adult mammals are unable to regenerate their hearts after cardiac injury, largely due to the incapacity of cardiomyocytes (CMs) to undergo cell division. However, mammalian embryonic and fetal CMs, similar to CMs from fish and amphibians during their entire life, exhibit robust replicative activity, which stops abruptly after birth and never significantly resumes. Converging evidence indicates that formation of the highly ordered and stable cytoarchitecture of mammalian mature CMs is coupled with loss of their proliferative potential. Here, we review the available information on the role of the cardiac cytoskeleton and sarcomere in the regulation of CM proliferation. The actin cytoskeleton, the intercalated disc, the microtubular network and the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex each sense mechanical cues from the surrounding environment. Furthermore, they participate in the regulation of CM proliferation by impinging on the yes-associated protein/transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif, β-catenin and myocardin-related transcription factor transcriptional co-activators. Mastering the molecular mechanisms regulating CM proliferation would permit the development of innovative strategies to stimulate cardiac regeneration in adult individuals, a hitherto unachieved yet fundamental therapeutic goal.

Sustained effect of continuous treatment with bevacizumab following bevacizumab in combination with chemotherapy in a human ovarian clear cell carcinoma xenograft model

Although bevacizumab maintenance following bevacizumab in combination with chemotherapy has demonstrated significant prolongation of progression-free survival in clinical studies in patients with ovarian cancer, the majority of the cancer cases in the study were of the serous histotype; therefore, data regarding clear cell carcinoma is limited. Furthermore, the efficacy of bevacizumab beyond progression has not yet been demonstrated in ovarian cancer. A xenograft model using the human ovarian clear cell carcinoma cell line RMG-I was used to investigate the antitumor effects and the mechanisms of bevacizumab in maintenance treatment and bevacizumab when administered beyond disease progression. In the RMG-I model, bevacizumab maintenance following bevacizumab in combination with paclitaxel exhibited increased tumor suppression, compared with its absence, and inhibited the increase of microvessel density (MVD) in tumors. Following disease progression during bevacizumab maintenance, continued bevacizumab treatment in combination with PEGylated liposomal doxorubicin as a secondary chemotherapeutic agent had increased efficacy, compared with PEGylated liposomal doxorubicin alone, and resulted in lower MVD accompanied with lower levels of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3, which is reported to have angiogenic activity. Continuous suppression of angiogenesis by bevacizumab may contribute to the superior efficacy of bevacizumab maintenance and bevacizumab beyond progression in ovarian cancer.

Tubulin mRNA stability is sensitive to change in microtubule dynamics caused by multiple physiological and toxic cues

The localization, mass, and dynamics of microtubules are important in many processes. Cells may actively monitor the state of their microtubules and respond to perturbation, but how this occurs outside mitosis is poorly understood. We used gene-expression analysis in quiescent cells to analyze responses to subtle and strong perturbation of microtubules. Genes encoding α-, β, and γ-tubulins (TUBAs, TUBBs, and TUBGs), but not δ- or ε-tubulins (TUBDs or TUBEs), exhibited the strongest differential expression response to microtubule-stabilizing versus destabilizing drugs. Quantitative PCR of exon versus intron sequences confirmed that these changes were caused by regulation of tubulin mRNA stability and not transcription. Using tubulin mRNA stability as a signature to query the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, we find that tubulin genes respond to toxins known to damage microtubules. Importantly, we find many other experimental perturbations, including multiple signaling and metabolic inputs that trigger tubulin differential expression, suggesting their novel, to our knowledge, role in the regulation of the microtubule cytoskeleton. Mechanistic follow-up confirms that one important physiological signal, phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K) activity, indeed regulates tubulin mRNA stability via changes in microtubule dynamics. We propose that tubulin gene expression is regulated as part of many coordinated biological responses, with wide implications in physiology and toxicology. Furthermore, we present a new way to discover microtubule regulation using transcriptomics.

Anti-Microtubule Drugs

Small molecule drugs that target microtubules (MTs), many of them natural products, have long been important tools in the MT field. Indeed, tubulin (Tb) was discovered, in part, as the protein binding partner of colchicine. Several anti-MT drug classes also have important medical uses, notably colchicine, which is used to treat gout, familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), and pericarditis, and the vinca alkaloids and taxanes, which are used to treat cancer. Anti-MT drugs have in common that they bind specifically to Tb in the dimer, MT or some other form. However, their effects on polymerization dynamics and on the human body differ markedly. Here we briefly review the most-studied molecules, and comment on their uses in basic research and medicine. Our focus is on practical applications of different anti-MT drugs in the laboratory, and key points that users should be aware of when designing experiments. We also touch on interesting unsolved problems, particularly in the area of medical applications. In our opinion, the mechanism by which any MT drug cures or treats any disease is still unsolved, despite decades of research. Solving this problem for particular drug-disease combinations might open new uses for old drugs, or provide insights into novel routes for treatment.

Molecular basis of cancer-therapy-induced cardiotoxicity: introducing microRNA biomarkers for early assessment of subclinical myocardial injury

Development of reliable biomarkers for early clinical assessment of drug-induced cardiotoxicity could allow the detection of subclinical cardiac injury risk in vulnerable patients before irreversible damage occurs. Currently, it is difficult to predict who will develop drug-induced cardiotoxicity owing to lack of sensitivity and/or specificity of currently used diagnostics. miRNAs are mRNA regulators and they are currently being extensively profiled for use as biomarkers due to their specific tissue and disease expression signature profiles. Identification of cardiotoxicity-specific miRNA biomarkers could provide clinicians with a valuable tool to allow prognosis of patients at risk of cardiovascular injury, alteration of a treatment regime or the introduction of an adjunct therapy in order to increase the long-term survival rate of patients treated with cardiotoxic drugs.

Megakaryocyte polyploidy is inhibited by lysyl oxidase propeptide

Megakaryocytes (MKs), the platelet precursors, undergo an endomitotic cell cycle that leads to polyploidy. Lysyl oxidase propeptide (LOX-PP) is generated from lysyl oxidase (LOX) pro-enzyme after proteolytical cleavage. We recently reported that LOX, a known matrix cross-linking enzyme, contributes to MK lineage expansion. In addition, LOX expression levels are ploidy-dependent, with polyploidy MKs having minimal levels. This led us to test the effects of LOX-PP on the number and ploidy of primary MKs. LOX-PP significantly decreases mouse bone marrow MK ploidy coupled with a reduction in MK size. MK number is unchanged upon LOX-PP treatment. Analysis of LOX-PP- or vehicle-treated MKs by western blotting revealed a reduction in ERK1/2 phosphorylation and in the levels of its downstream targets, cyclin D3 and cyclin E, which are known to play a central role in MK endomitosis. Pull-down assays and immunochemistry staining indicated that LOX-PP interacts with α-tubulin and the mictotubules, which can contribute to decreased MK ploidy. Thus, our findings defined a role for LOX-PP in reducing MK ploidy. This suggests that high-level expression of LOX in aberrantly proliferating MKs could play a part in inhibiting their polyploidization via LOX-PP.

Linking cell structure to gene regulation: signaling events and expression controls on the model genes PAI-1 and CTGF

The microtubule and microfilament cytoskeletal systems as well as cell-to-cell contacts and cell-matrix interactions are critical regulators of cell structure and function. Alterations in cell shape profoundly influence signaling events and gene expression programs that impact a spectrum of biological responses including cell growth, migration and apoptosis. These same pathways also contribute to the progression of several important pathologic conditions (e.g., arteriosclerosis, vascular fibrosis, and endothelial dysfunction). Indeed, hemodynamic forces in the vascular compartment are established modifiers of endothelial and smooth muscle cell cytoarchitecture and orchestrate complex genetic and biological responses in concert with contributions from the extracellular matrix (ECM), growth factors (e.g., EGF, and TGF-beta) and cell adhesion receptors (e.g., integrins, and cadherins). The profibrotic matricellular proteins plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) are prominent members of a subset of genes the expression of which is highly responsive to cell shape-altering stimuli (i.e., disruption of the actin-based and microtubule networks, shear strain and cyclic stretch). Since both PAI-1 and CTGF are major mediators of cardiovascular fibrotic disease, understanding cell structure-linked signaling cascades provides potential avenues for focused therapy. It is increasingly evident that growth factor receptors (EGFR) are activated by changes in cytoarchitecture and that the "repressive state" of certain signaling proteins (e.g., SMAD, and Rho-GEFs) is maintained by sequestration on cell structural networks. Functional repression can be relieved by cytoskeletal perturbations (e.g., in response to treatment with network-specific drugs) resulting in activation of signaling cascades (e.g., Rho, and MAPK) with associated changes in gene reprogramming. Recent studies document a complex network of both similar and unique signaling control elements leading to the induction of PAI-1 and CTGF in response to modifications in cell shape. The purpose of this review is to highlight our current understanding of "cell deformation"-responsive signaling cascades focusing on the potential value of targeting such pathways, and their model response genes (e.g., PAI-1, and CTGF), as a therapeutic option for the treatment of fibrotic diseases.

Attenuation of p38 MAPK activity upon contact inhibition in fibroblasts

The molecular events, which govern growth control upon contact inhibition have not yet been clearly defined. Previous work has indicated that there is an increase in the expression of mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatases (MKPs) upon the attainment of contact inhibition in normal fibroblasts, concurrently with a decrease in ERK activity. To investigate the potential role of p38 and JNK in the transition to a contact-inhibited state, normal human fibroblasts (BJ) were grown to subconfluent and confluent densities. The total levels and phosphorylation states of p38 and JNK were assayed, and were compared to protein levels seen in HT-1080 fibrosarcoma cells, which lack contact-inhibited growth control. Activation of JNK was not apparent in these cells, though p38 was found to be active in proliferating cells, but attenuated in contact-inhibited cultures. Such fluctuations in p38 activity were not seen in cultures of fibrosarcoma cells of increasing density. This alteration in p38 activity was also reflected by attenuated activation of the downstream transcription factor ATF-2 upon contact inhibition. Overexpression of MKP-1 in fibrosarcoma cells and fibroblasts reduced proliferation, while expression of a phosphatase-resistant p38 protein (p38(N316)) enhanced proliferation of normal fibroblasts. Taken together, these results suggest the involvement of negative regulation of p38 in contact-inhibited growth control.

Successful treatment of advanced gastric cancer by surgical resection following combination chemotherapy with oral S-1 and biweekly paclitaxel

We report on the successful treatment of advanced gastric cancer by surgical resection following neoadjuvant chemotherapy. A 67-year-old man was referred to our hospital with a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. Meticulous examination, however, revealed the presence of gastric cancer with ascites and large lymph node metastasis adjacent to the pancreas. We selected combination chemotherapy with oral S-1 and biweekly paclitaxel. After two courses, both the primary tumor and metastatic lymph nodes were greatly reduced, and the ascites had disappeared. Using laparoscopy, there was no evidence of peritoneal metastases, and the cytological examination was negative. The patient underwent distal gastrectomy with D2 lymph node dissection. Histological examination revealed that the cancer cells were still present in part, but no lymph node metastases were found. The tumor was pathologically diagnosed as pT2, pN0, P0, M0, CY0, and p-stage II. The patient is healthy over 4 years after surgery without recurrence.

Caveolin regulates microtubule polymerization in the vascular smooth muscle cells

Microtubule and caveolin have common properties in intracellular trafficking and the regulation of cellular growth. Overexpression of caveolin in vascular smooth muscle cells increased the polymer form of microtubule without changing in the total amount of tubulin, and downregulation of caveolin decreased the polymer form of microtubule. Fractionation of cellular proteins followed by immunodetection as well as immunostaining of caveolin and microtubule revealed that caveolin and a portion of microtubule were co-localized in caveolar fractions. A caveolin scaffolding domain peptide, which mimics caveolin function, did not alter the polymerization of microtubule in vitro, but dramatically inhibited the depolymerization of microtubule induced by stathmin, a microtubule destabilizing protein, which was also found in caveolar fractions. Accordingly, it is most likely that caveolin increased the polymer form of microtubule through the inhibition of a microtubule destabilizer, stathmin, suggesting a novel role of caveolin in regulating cellular network and trafficking.

DNA damage as an early biomarker of effect in human health

In the last few decades the need for new approaches to assess DNA damage has been increasing due to the implications that different insults on genetic material may have on human health. In this context, the identification of how chemical agents with different mechanisms of action (i.e., antineoplastic drugs) damage DNA provides a good model to investigate some cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the basis of genetic toxicology. The nasal epithelium is the first barrier with which environmental pollutants interact, and for this reason this epithelium can be useful as a sentinel in order to assess the interactions between the environment and the living organisms. Taking these phenomena into account and using a simple, sensitive and rapid method such as the single cell gel electrophoresis, we could obtain information and an initial approach on the DNA status. This assay in combination with other techniques that provide more information about other molecular parameters could give us a better view of the biological status of the living cell.

Intraperitoneal taxanes

The taxanes appear to be promising agents for intraperitoneal use. Paclitaxel is currently undergoing Phase III investigation for the treatment of ovarian cancer. Docetaxel requires further Phase II study, but its impressive activity with systemic administration may be optimized with intraperitoneal administration for the treatment of peritoneal surface malignancy.

Role of Plk2 (Snk) in mouse development and cell proliferation

Plk2 (Snk) is a polo-like kinase expressed at G(1) in cultured cells and mainly in the hippocampal neurons in the brains of adult rodents, but its function is poorly understood. We have generated mice deficient in Plk2 by gene targeting. Although Plk2 is not required for postnatal growth, Plk2(-/-) embryos show retarded growth and skeletal development late in gestation. The labyrinthine zone of the placenta is diminished in Plk2(-/-) embryos due to decreased cell proliferation. Cultured Plk2(-/-) embryonic fibroblasts grow more slowly than normal cells and show delayed entry into S phase. These data suggest a role for Plk2 in the cell cycle.

MEK/ERK pathway mediates cell-shape-dependent plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 gene expression upon drug-induced disruption of the microfilament and microtubule networks

Changes in cellular morphology induced as a consequence of direct perturbation of cytoskeletal structure with network-specific targeting agents(i.e. microfilament- or microtubule-disrupting drugs) results in the stimulated expression of a specific subset of genes. Transcription of c-fos, collagenase, transforming growth factor-β, actin,urokinase plasminogen activator and its type-1 inhibitor (PAI-1) appears to be particularly responsive to shape-activated signaling pathways. Cytochalasin D(CD) or colchicine treatment of contact-inhibited and serum-deprived vascular smooth muscle (R22) cells was used, therefore, as a model system to evaluate morphology-associated controls on PAI-1 gene regulation in the absence of added growth factors. PAI-1 transcript levels in quiescent R22 cells increased rapidly and in a CD-concentration-dependent fashion, with kinetics of expression paralleling the morphological changes. Colchicine concentrations that effectively disrupted microtubule structure and reduced the cellular`footprint' area (to approximately that of CD treatment) also stimulated PAI-1 synthesis. Shape-related increases in PAI-1 mRNA synthesis were ablated by prior exposure to actinomycin D. Unlike the mechanism of induction in growth-factor-stimulated cells, CD- and colchicine-induced PAI-1 expression required on-going protein synthesis (i.e. it was a secondary response). Although PAI-1 is a TGF-β-regulated gene and TGF-β expression is also shape dependent, an autocrine TGF-β loop was not a factor in CD-initiated PAI-1 transcription. Since CD exposure resulted in actin microfilament disruption and subsequent morphological changes, with uncertain effects on interactions between signaling intermediates or `scaffold'structures, a pharmacological approach was selected to probe the pathways involved. Signaling events leading to PAI-1 induction were compared with colchicine-treated cells. CD- as well as colchicine-stimulated PAI-1 expression was effectively and dose dependently attenuated by the MEK inhibitor PD98059 (in the 10 to 25 μM concentration range), consistent with the known MAP kinase dependency of PAI-1 synthesis in growth-factor-stimulated cells. Reduced PAI-1 mRNA levels upon exposure to genistein prior to CD addition correlated with inhibition of ERK1/2 activity, implicating a tyrosine kinase in shape-dependent MEK activation. Src-family kinases,moreover, appeared to be specific upstream elements in the CD- and colchicine-dependent pathways of PAI-1 transcription since both agents effectively activated pp60c-src kinase activity in quiescent R22 cells. The restrictive (src-family) kinase inhibitor PP1 completely inhibited induced, as well as basal, ERK activity in a coupled immunoprecipitation myelin-basic-protein-phosphorylation assay and ablated shape-initiated PAI-1 mRNA expression. These data suggest that PP1-sensitive tyrosine kinases are upstream intermediates in cell-shape-associated signaling pathways resulting in ERK1/2 activation and subsequent PAI-1 transcription. In contrast to the rapid and transient kinetics of ERK activity typical of serum-stimulated cells, the ERK1/2 response to CD and colchicine is both delayed and relatively sustained. Collectively, these data support a model in which MEK is a focal point for the convergence of shape-initiated signaling events leading to induced PAI-1 transcription.

Glycerol suppresses proliferation of rat hepatocytes and human HepG2 cells

BACKGROUND

In fulminant hepatic failure (FHF), the ability of surviving hepatocytes to proliferate is diminished. Therefore, it is important that medical therapy cause no further impairment of liver regeneration. In FHF, intracranial hypertension secondary to brain edema is the most common cause of brain injury and death and glycerol is used in some countries to treat this complication. Glycerol has been long known to suppress the growth of various cell types. We therefore decided to examine the effect of glycerol on hepatocyte proliferation in vitro and in vivo in rats subjected to partial (2/3) hepatectomy. Additionally, we investigated the effect of glycerol on the proliferation of HepG2 cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mitogen-induced primary rat hepatocytes were cultured in a hormonally defined Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium containing increasing amounts of glycerol (0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0%). HepG2 cells were cultured in minimal essential medium/10% FBS. After 2 days, HepG2 cells were exposed to glycerol (1.0-2.0-4.0%) and harvested after 48 h. Control dishes contained no glycerol. Cell proliferation was measured by the incorporation of [(3)H]thymidine and/or bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU). In vivo, Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to standard partial 2/3 hepatectomy and assigned to intraportal administration of either 400 microl of glycerol or saline. Rats were killed after 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7 days. Liver weight/body weight ratio and BrdU uptake were measured.

RESULTS

In all cultures tested, glycerol suppressed the growth of cells in a dose-dependent manner. In vivo, a single intraportal dose of glycerol slowed the liver regenerative response.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that glycerol has a potent growth-inhibitory effect on hepatocyte proliferation in vivo and in vitro. Remarkably, glycerol inhibited the proliferation of liver cancer cells as well. The results of this study have important clinical implications.

Microfilament disruption in a noncycling organized tissue, the corneal endothelium, initiates mitosis

The adult corneal endothelium represents a noncycling cell population that resides as a monolayer on its basement membrane, Descemet's membrane. Evidence is presented for the first time, showing that mitotic regulation in this organized tissue, residing on its natural basement membrane, is coupled to microfilament integrity. When mitotically quiescent rat corneal endothelia are organ cultured in medium containing serum and cytochalasin B, low levels of mitosis are initiated. Supplementing the culture medium with either insulin or IGF-2 augments this response and results in increased cell density within the tissue monolayer. Fluorescence microscopy of actin using TRITC-conjugated phalloidin revealed that cellular circumferential microfilament bundles appear unaffected by cytochalasin B treatment, whereas the cytoplasmic microfilaments appear to be completely disrupted. These results suggest the possibility that the actin cytoskeleton is involved with the regulation of cell growth in the corneal endothelium.

Perturbation of the actin cytoskeleton induces PAI-1 gene expression in cultured epithelial cells independent of substrate anchorage

Perturbation of cellular architecture with agents that alter cytoskeletal organization provides a means to assess the relationship between cell shape and gene expression. Induced transcription of the plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1 (PAI-1) gene in serum-free cultures of normal rat kidney (NRK-52E) cells following disruption of actin microfilament structures with cytochalasin D (CD) provides a simple model to probe mechanisms underlying shape-related expression control. Transition from the typical flat epithelial cell shape to an "arborized" phenotype was a concomitant of the PAI-1 inductive response. Stimulated expression occurred rapidly (i.e., within 2 h of CD addition), involved increases in both PAI-1 mRNA abundance and de novo protein synthesis, and was dependent upon the concentration of CD used. A series of culture conditions were designed (e.g., use of bacteriological surfaces, poly-HEMA coated surfaces, maintenance in suspension on agarose) to discriminate cell shape from adhesive influences on CD-stimulated PAI-1 expression. Cytoskeletal disruption, and not simply changes in cell shape, was a critical aspect of CD-mediated PAI-1 expression in NRK cells cultured under serum-free conditions; induced expression was independent of substrate anchorage. Low concentrations of CD (1-2 microM) failed to cause cell arborization or increase either relative PAI-1 mRNA/protein abundance levels suggesting, however, that cell rounding may be a necessary but not sufficient aspect in CD-mediated PAI-1 induction. Transfection of PAI-1 promoter-CAT reporter constructs into NRK cells followed by stimulation with CD or serum additionally indicated that CD-induced PAI-1 expression did not utilize the same functional complement of serum-responsive promoter sequences, thus, further defining differences in the growth factor- and cytoskeletal-mediated pathways of PAI-1 gene regulation.

Microtubule dynamics in serum-starved and serum-stimulated Swiss 3T3 mouse fibroblasts: implications for the relationship between serum-induced contractility and microtubules

It has been established that cell contractility can be stimulated with low or depolymerizing doses of microtubule (MT) poisons. In addition, low doses of nocodazole and vinblastine have recently been shown to decrease MT dynamics in vivo. In this study, investigated whether there is a direct, or reciprocal feedback-type relationship between contractility and microtubule dynamics, by examining MT dynamic behavior in live cells under conditions where contractility is known to be altered. Quiescent, serum-starved Swiss 3T3 mouse fibroblasts have been shown to be weakened in their contractility; serum stimulation increases cell contractility and causes the formation of stress fibers and adhesion plaques. Growing (control), quiescent (Go), and serum-stimulated cells were injected with rhodamine-tubulin, and MT dynamics were determined by analysis of MT length changes obtained from digitized images of the extreme periphery of the cells, where the MT ends were readily apparent. The MTs in quiescent cells were less dynamic than those in control cells: the growth and shortening rates were reduced by 30% and 45%, respectively. Dynamicity decreased by 47%, and the MTs spent more time in pause. After serum stimulation, MT growth rate, dynamicity, and time spent in pause returned to control cell levels. Although the shortening rate increased by 28%, it remained significantly lower than in control cells. In this system, the serum-induced increase in contractility was accompanied by an increase in MT dynamics. However, increased contractility stimulated with low doses of MT poisons is known to be accompanied by a decrease in MT dynamics. These results suggest that the relationship between MT dynamics and contractility is an indirect one.

Opposite effects of antimicrotubule agents on c-myc oncogene expression depending on the cell lines used

We investigated the expression of c-myc in HT29-D4, HBL100 and Caco-2 cells treated with microtubule stabilising (paclitaxel) or depolymerising agents (vinblastine, nocodazole). After induction by epidermal growth factor (EGF), c-myc expression decreased in HT29-D4 cells treated with all the antimicrotubule agents. In HBL100 and Caco-2, when microtubules were stabilised with paclitaxel, c-myc expression also decreased. In contrast, its expression increased after treatment with depolymerising agents. In both cell lines, we also observed that depolymerising agents alone induced c-myc expression whilst paclitaxel had no effect. This mRNA induction was confirmed at the protein level. In HT29-D4, no variation of c-myc expression was observed. Then, we showed that the increase of mRNA level was due to activation of gene transcription. These results indicate that modulation of c-myc expression varied depending on the cell lines used and the type of antimicrotubule agents. This work provides a potential link between the microtubular network and c-myc gene expression.

Microtubules are potential regulators of growth-plate chondrocyte differentiation and hypertrophy

Terminal differentiation of growth-plate chondrocytes is accompanied by the acquisition of a spherical morphology and a large increase in cell volume. These changes are likely to be associated with rearrangement of the cytoskeleton, but little information on this aspect of chondrocyte hypertrophy is available. We report a role for microtubules in the control of chondrocyte maturation and hypertrophy. Chick growth-plate chondrocytes were fractionated into five maturationally distinct populations by Percoll density gradient centrifugation, and agarose gel differential display analysis was performed. We identified a 1200 bp cDNA fragment derived from a transcript that was most highly expressed in the hypertrophic chondrocytes. After cloning and sequencing, FASTA and BLAST analysis revealed 100% identity to chick beta7-tubulin. Differential expression was confirmed in a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay using specific primers for a 343 bp fragment from the 3' untranslated region of beta7-tubulin. Beta7-tubulin was upregulated three-fold in fully hypertrophic chondrocytes compared with the other four fractions, which all had similar levels of expression. Immunocytochemical localization of beta-tubulin in chick growth-plate sections demonstrated little staining in the chondrocytes of the proliferating zone, but intense cytoplasmic staining was present in the large hypertrophic chondrocytes. In cell culture studies, the addition of colchicine (10(-6) mol/L) resulted in a higher rate of [3H]-thymidine uptake (36.0%; p < 0.001), but lower amounts of alkaline phosphatase activity (69.1%; p < 0.001), collagen (49.1%; p < 0.01), and glycosaminoglycan (43.3%; p < 0.01) accumulation within the cell-matrix layer. Further evidence for the involvement of microtubules in chondrocyte differentiation and hypertrophy was obtained by morphological assessment of colchicine-treated growth-plate explant cultures. A partial failure of chondrocyte hypertrophy was observed, although collagen type X immunoreactivity was noted within the interstitial matrix. Further studies are required to identify the exact role of microtubules in chondrocyte hypertrophy, but the results presented here suggest that upregulation of beta-tubulin may be required for increased microtubule synthesis during changes in cell size during the hypertrophic process. In addition, as cell-matrix interactions are required for chondrocyte maturation, microtubules may promote the differentiated phenotype as a result of their role in Golgi-mediated secretion of matrix proteins.

The cytoskeletal network controls c-Jun expression and glucocorticoid receptor transcriptional activity in an antagonistic and cell-type-specific manner

The physical and functional link between adhesion molecules and the cytoskeletal network suggests that the cytoskeleton might mediate the transduction of cell-to-cell contact signals, which often regulate growth and differentiation in an antagonistic manner. Depolymerization of the cytoskeleton in confluent cell cultures is reportedly sufficient to initiate DNA synthesis. Here we show that depolymerization of the cytoskeleton is also sufficient to repress differentiation-specific gene expression. Glutamine synthetase is a glia-specific differentiation marker gene whose expression in the retinal tissue is regulated by glucocorticoids and is ultimately dependent on glia-neuron cell contacts. Depolymerization of the actin or microtubule network in cells of the intact retina mimics the effects of cell separation, repressing glutamine synthetase induction by a mechanism that involves induction of c-Jun and inhibition of glucocorticoid receptor transcriptional activity. Depolymerization of the cytoskeleton activates JNK and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and induces c-Jun expression by a signaling pathway that depends on tyrosine kinase activity. Induction of c-Jun expression is restricted to Müller glial cells, the only cells in the tissue that express glutamine synthetase and maintain the ability to proliferate upon cell separation. Our results suggest that the cytoskeletal network might play a part in the transduction of cell contact signals to the nucleus.

Microtubules and signal transduction

Although molecular components of signal transduction pathways are rapidly being identified, how elements of these pathways are positioned spatially and how signals traverse the intracellular environment from the cell surface to the nucleus or to other cytoplasmic targets are not well understood. The discovery of signaling molecules that interact with microtubules (MTs), as well as the multiple effects on signaling pathways of drugs that destabilize or hyperstabilize MTs, indicate that MTs are likely to be critical to the spatial organization of signal transduction. MTs themselves are also affected by signaling pathways and this may contribute to the transmission of signals to downstream targets.

Cell shape-dependent pathway of plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1 gene expression requires cytoskeletal reorganization

Synthesis of plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1 (PAI-1), a major physiological modulator of plasmin generation, is regulated by growth factors and changes in cell shape. To evaluate the specific relationship between PAI-1 gene expression and cytoarchitecture, serum-free cultures of quiescent rat kidney (NRK) cells were exposed to cytochalasin D (CD) at concentrations that disrupt microfilament structure. Treatment with 1-10 microM CD resulted in an increased 1) incidence of rounded cells, 2) relative PAI-1 mRNA content, and 3) fraction of PAI-1 protein-expressing cells. Abrupt increases in each response were evident at a final concentration of 5 microM CD. Maximal levels of induced PAI-1 transcripts (18-fold that of control) occurred 4 hours post-CD addition and declined thereafter but remained elevated (by at least tenfold) for 24 hours. Assessment of the metabolic requirements for CD-induced PAI-1 expression by using the protein synthesis inhibitors puromycin and cycloheximide indicated that PAI-1 transcripts were regulated in a complex manner in response to CD. The predominant mode of induction reflected secondary (protein synthesis-dependent) metabolic processes, although a minor, albeit significant, primary (protein synthesis-independent) pathway was also evident. PAI-1 mRNA levels in NRK cells maintained in serum- and CD-free agarose suspension culture were low or undetectable. Relative abundance of PAI-1 transcripts in suspended cells cultured in the presence of CD, however, closely approximated that of plastic-adherent, CD-treated cells (13-fold over control). NRK cells in suspension culture with or without CD were morphologically identical, remaining spherical and unattached. It appears, therefore, that cell rounding alone is not a sufficient stimulus to induce PAI-1 expression in quiescent NRK cells and that perturbation of the actin skeleton as a consequence of CD treatment is a critical event in the inductive response. A protein tyrosine kinase is likely involved in the CD-mediated signal-transduction cascade, since induced PAI-1 expression can be down-regulated by genistein and herbimycin A but not by calphostin C or tyrphostin B46.

Microtubule depolymerization induces stress fibers, focal adhesions, and DNA synthesis via the GTP-binding protein Rho

Microtubule depolymerization has multiple consequences that include actin stress fiber and focal adhesion assembly, increased tyrosine phosphorylation and DNA synthesis. Similar effects induced by serum, or agents such as lysophosphatidic acid, have previously been shown to be mediated by the GTP-binding protein Rho. We have investigated whether the effects of microtubule depolymerization are similarly mediated by Rho and show that they are blocked by the specific Rho inhibitor, C3 transferase. Because microtubule depolymerization induces these effects in quiescent cells, in which Rho is largely inactive, we conclude that microtubule depolymerization leads to activation of Rho. The activation of Rho in response to microtubule depolymerization and the consequent stimulation of contractility suggest a mechanism by which microtubules may regulate microfilament function in various motile phenomena. These range from growth cone extension to the development of the contractile ring during cytokinesis, in which there are interactions between the microtubule and microfilament systems.

Neural cell adhesion molecule (N-CAM) domains and intracellular signaling pathways involved in the inhibition of astrocyte proliferation

The neural cell adhesion molecule (N-CAM) inhibits astrocyte proliferation in vitro and in vivo, and this effect is partially reversed by the glucocorticoid antagonist RU-486. The present studies have tested the hypothesis that N-CAM-mediated inhibition of astrocyte proliferation is caused by homophilic binding and involves the activation of glucocorticoid receptors. It was observed that all N-CAM Ig domains inhibited astrocyte proliferation in parallel with their ability to influence N-CAM binding. The proliferation of other N-CAM-expressing cells also was inhibited by the addition of N-CAM. In contrast, the proliferation of astrocytes from knockout mice lacking N-CAM was not inhibited by added N-CAM. These findings support the hypothesis that it is binding of soluble N-CAM to N-CAM on the astrocyte surface that leads to decreased proliferation. Signaling pathways stimulated by growth factors include activation of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase. Addition of N-CAM inhibited MAP kinase activity induced by basic fibroblast growth factor in astrocytes. In accord with previous findings that RU-486 could partially prevent the proliferative effects of N-CAM, inhibition of MAP kinase activity by N-CAM was reversed by RU-486. The ability of N-CAM to inhibit astrocyte proliferation was unaffected, however, by agents that block the ability of N-CAM to promote neurite outgrowth. Together, these findings indicate that homophilic N-CAM binding leads to inhibition of astrocyte proliferation via a pathway involving the glucocorticoid receptor and that the ability of N-CAM to influence astrocyte proliferation and neurite outgrowth involves different signal pathways.

Host cell and malarial targets for docetaxel (Taxotere) during the erythrocytic development of Plasmodium falciparum

The microtubular stabilizing agent docetaxel (Taxotere) is known to inhibit the intraerythrocytic development of Plasmodium falciparum. To investigate the mechanism(s) of inhibition, we analyzed the structural organization of the mitotic spindle by immunofluorescence and electron microscopy. When 30 microM docetaxel was applied for five hours on ring forms, alterations in the mitotic spindles leading to abnormal nuclear divisions were observed. At the trophozoite- and schizont-stage, docetaxel pulses prevent mitosis by stabilizing microtubular structures associated with the mitotic apparatus, giving abnormal spindles. However, this inhibition did not interfere with parasite DNA synthesis indicating the absence of a checkpoint that couples exit from mitosis with proper spindle assembly as observed in higher eukaryotic cells. In parallel, intraerythrocytic concentration of docetaxel was measured in parasitized erythrocytes, after incubation of cells with 3H-docetaxel for five hours. It was found to be 14-fold increased at the ring-stage of infected erythrocytes compared to normal ones, 170-fold increased at the trophozoite-stage and 1,500-fold increased at the schizont-stage. Our data show that, even though the overall intracellular concentration of docetaxel is low in docetaxel-pulsed rings, the agent might be sufficient to disturb the spindle organization. However, the existence of targets for docetaxel other than mitotic spindle microtubules, i.e. erythrocyte membrane components could interfere with mitotic spindle formation.

Nod factor internalization and microtubular cytoskeleton changes occur concomitantly during nodule differentiation in alfalfa

Reorganization of the plant cytoskeleton is thought to play an important role during nodule ontogeny. In situ immunolocalisation of tubulin reveals that important cytoskeletal changes, implying a transient disorganization followed by a newly patterned reorganization, occur in indeterminate and determinate nodules. In alfalfa nodules, cytoskeletal changes closely parallel the symbiotic differentiation features related to cell infection, bacterial release, endopolyploidization, cell enlargement, cell spatial organization and organelle ultrastructure and positioning. Moreover, the fact that microtubule disorganization can be correlated with Nod factor internalization in central infected cells suggests that Nod factors are possibly involved in the control of cytoskeletal changes which direct the differentiation of bacteria-containing cells.

Toxic effects of griseofulvin: disease models, mechanisms, and risk assessment

Griseofulvin (GF) has been in use for more than 30 years as a pharmaceutical drug in humans for the treatment of dermatomycoses. Animal studies give clear evidence that it causes a variety of acute and chronic toxic effects, including liver and thyroid cancer in rodents, abnormal germ cell maturation, teratogenicity, and embroyotoxicity in various species. No sufficient data from human studies are available at present to exclude a risk in humans: therefore, attempts were made to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for the toxic effects of GF and to address the question whether such effects might occur in humans undergoing GF therapy. It is well documented that GF acts as a spindle poison and its reproductive toxicity as well as the induction of numerical chromosome aberrations and of micronuclei in somatic cells possibly may result from disturbance of microtubuli formation. Likewise, a causal relationship between aneuploidy and cancer has been repeatedly postulated. However, a critical survey of the data available on aneuploidogenic chemicals revealed insufficient evidence for such an association. Conceivably, other mechanisms may be responsible for the carcinogenic effects of the drug. The induction of thyroid tumors in rats by GF is apparently a consequence of the decrease of thyroxin levels and it is unlikely that such effects occur in GF-exposed humans. The appearance of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) in mice on GF-supplemented diet is preceded by various biochemical and morphological changes in the liver. Among these, hepatic porphyria is prominent, it may result from inhibition of ferrochelatase and (compensatory) induction of ALA synthetase. GF-induced accumulation of porphyrins in mouse liver is followed by cell damage and necrotic and inflammatory processes. Similar changes are known from certain human porphyrias which are also associated with an increased risk for HCC. However, the porphyrogenic effect of GF therapy in humans is moderate compared with that in the mouse model, although more detailed studies should be performed in order to clarify this relationship on a quantitative basis. A further important effect of GF-feeding in mice is the formation of Mallory bodies (MBs) in hepatocytes. These cytoskeletal abnormalities occur also in humans, although under different conditions; their appearance is associated with the induction of liver disease and HCC. Chronic liver damage associated with porphyria and MB formation, enhanced cell proliferation, liver enlargement, and enzyme induction all may contribute to the hepatocarcinogenic effect of GF in mice. In conclusion, further investigation is required for adequate assessment of health risks to humans under GF therapy.

Lysophosphatidic acid and microtubule-destabilizing agents stimulate fibronectin matrix assembly through Rho-dependent actin stress fiber formation and cell contraction

Fibronectin (FN) matrix assembly is a cell-dependent process mediated by cell surface-binding sites for the 70-kDa amino-terminal region of FN. We have shown recently that lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a stimulator of FN matrix assembly. Disruption of microtubules has been shown to mimic some of the intracellular effects of LPA including the formation of actin stress fibers and myosin light chain phosphorylation. We compared the effects of microtubule disruption and LPA on FN binding and actin cytoskeleton organization. The disruption of microtubules by nocodazole or vinblastine increased FN binding to adherent cells. The modulation of binding sites was rapid, dynamic, and reversible. Enhanced binding was due to increases in both the number and affinity of binding sites. These effects are similar to the effects of LPA on FN binding. Binding induced by nocodazole was inhibited by the microtubule-stabilizing agent Taxol but not by pretreatment with a concentration of phospholipase B that totally abolished the stimulatory effect of LPA. Fluorescence microscopy revealed a close correlation among actin stress fiber formation, cell contraction, and FN binding. Blockage of the small GTP binding protein Rho or actin-myosin interactions inhibited the effects of both nocodazole and LPA on FN binding. These observations demonstrate that Rho-dependent actin stress fiber formation and cell contraction induce increased FN binding and represent a rapid labile way that cells can modulate FN matrix assembly.

Paclitaxel inhibits arterial smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration in vitro and in vivo using local drug delivery

BACKGROUND

The antineoplastic compound paclitaxel (Taxol) causes an increased assembly of extraordinarily stable microtubules. The present study was designed to characterize the effects of paclitaxel on proliferation and migration of human arterial smooth muscle cells (haSMCs) in vitro and on neointima formation in an in vivo experimental rabbit model.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Both monocultures of haSMCs and cocultures with human arterial endothelial cells (haECs) were used. Cell growth after 4, 8, and 14 days was determined in the absence or presence of platelet-derived growth factor-AB (PDGF-AB), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), or thrombin. Nonstop paclitaxel exposure, as well as single-dose applications of paclitaxel for 24 hours or even 20 minutes (0.1 to 10.0 micromol/L), caused a complete and prolonged inhibition of haSMC growth up to day 14, with an IC50 of 2.0 nmol/L. Mitogens or cocultures with stimulating haECs did not significantly attenuate paclitaxel-induced effects. Immunohistochemistry showed characteristic cytoskeletal changes predominantly in the microtubule network. Additionally, in 20 male New Zealand White rabbits, intimal plaques were produced by electrical stimulation. In 10 animals, paclitaxel was locally applied by use of microporous balloons. Histologically, the intima wall area, wall thickness, and degree of stenosis were reduced significantly in paclitaxel-treated animals compared with controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data show that paclitaxel inhibits haSMC proliferation and migration in a dose-dependent manner in monocultures and cocultures even in the presence of mitogens. Furthermore, paclitaxel prevents neointima formation in rabbits after balloon angioplasty. The long-lasting effect after just several minutes' exposure time makes this lipophilic substance a promising candidate for local antiproliferative therapy of restenosis.

Nuclear components with microtubule-organizing properties in multicellular eukaryotes: functional and evolutionary considerations

The nucleus and the microtubular cytoskeleton of eukaryotic cells appear to be structurally and functionally interrelated. Together they constitute a "cell body". One of the most important components of this body is a primary microtubule-organizing center (MTOC-I) located on or near the nuclear surface and composed of material that, in addition to constitutive centrosomal material, also comprises some nuclear matrix components. The MTOC-I shares a continuity with the mitotic spindle and, in animal cells, with the centrosome also. Secondary microtubule-organizing centers (MTOC-IIs) are a special feature of walled plant cells and are found at the plasma membrane where they organize arrays of cortical MTs that are essential for ordered cell wall synthesis and hence for cellular morphogenesis. MTOC-IIs are held to be similar in origin to the MTOC-I, but their material has been translocated to the cell periphery, perhaps by MTs organized and radiating from the MTOC-I. Many intranuclear, matrix-related components have been identified to participate in MT organization during mitosis and cytokinesis; some of them also seem to be related to the condensation and decondensation of chromatin during the mitotic chromosome cycle.

Colcemid alters S phase and other parameters in skin during chronic exposure to benzo(a)pyrene

The administration of Colcemid for collecting mitotic figures in a carcinogenesis study, using benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), diminished the experimental differences between exposed and control mice. A dose-related increase in noncollected mitotic index (n-mitotic index) was seen in keratinocytes in the dorsal epidermis of mice which received four weekly treatments of BaP at 16, 32 and 64 micrograms in 50 microliters of acetone. In contrast, the number of mitotic figures collected for 4 hr by Colcemid block (c-mitotic index) was depressed at 16 micrograms, unchanged at 32 micrograms, and elevated at 64 micrograms of BaP. Weekly treatments with 4,8 or 16 micrograms BaP for 3-8 months induced an elevation in both n-mitotic and c-mitotic indices. The differences in results produced by the two methods of determining mitotic index depended upon dose and duration of treatment with BaP. The administration of Colcemid to acetone-treated mice increased the labeling index (number of labeled cells) and reduced the rate of DNA synthesis (low grain count per keratinocyte nucleus). After chronic application of BaP, Colcemid abrogated the increase in labeling index, but produced no additional effect on the number of grains per labeled keratinocyte. The modifying effect of Colcemid was greatest when administered during the peak of the tissue response to BaP. A number of significant changes in morphology of the skin associated with chronic exposure to BaP were attenuated by the use of Colcemid.

Differential Taxol-dependent arrest of transformed and nontransformed cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle, and specific-related mortality of transformed cells

Taxol (paclitaxel) induces a microtubule hyperassembled state, and effectively blocks cells in mitosis. Here we report that Taxol also induces a stable late-G1 block in nontransformed REF-52 and WI-38 mammalian fibroblast cells, but not in T antigen-transformed cells of the same parental lineage. G1 arrest is characterized by partially dephosphorylated pRb, and inactive cdk2 kinase. Nontransformed cells recover normally from Taxol arrest. In contrast, T antigen transformed cells continue inappropriately past both G1 and G2-M in the presence of Taxol, and undergo a rapid death upon release. These results demonstrate a microtubule sensitive step in G1 regulation of nontransformed fibroblast cells. Also, Taxol selectively induces death of transformed cells, possibly because they slip the Taxol-dependent G1 arrest, as well as G2/M arrest, which are both specific to nontransformed cells.

Synthesis and accumulation of alphaB crystallin in C6 glioma cells is induced by agents that promote the disassembly of microtubules

When C6 cells in culture were exposed at 37 degrees C to 1 microM colchicine or to 1 microM colcemid, a tubulin-binding antimitotic alkaloid, levels of alphaB crystallin in cells began to increase after about 10 h, reaching a maximum of more than 1 microg/mg protein after 24 h. The level of alphaB crystallin returned to near the control level within two subsequent days of culture in the normal medium. Northern blot analysis showed that the accumulation of alphaB crystallin was preceded by an increase in the level of the mRNA for alphaB crystallin. Nuclear run-off transcription assays showed that colchicine induced new synthesis of mRNA for alphaB crystallin. Immunofluorescence staining revealed that alphaB crystallin accumulated in the peripheral areas of cells, as did the depolymerized tubulin, after several hours of treatment with colcemid, and then it gradually became more conspicuous in the cytoplasm. Vinblastine and nocodazole, which also promote the disassembly of microtubules by binding to tubulins, also induced the synthesis of alphaB crystallin. Furthermore, induction of alphaB crystallin by these drugs was observed in quiescent cells that had been cultured in serum-free medium. However, taxol, a microtubule-stabilizing antimitotic agent, did not stimulate the synthesis of alphaB crystallin, but rather, it suppressed the induction of synthesis of alphaB crystallin by the microtubule-disrupting drugs. Induction of alphaB crystallin by colchicine or by other drugs that promote the disassembly of microtubules was sensitive to staurosporine, an inhibitor of protein kinases, and the induction was completely suppressed in the presence of 10 nM staurosporine. These results suggest that the expression of alphaB crystallin is stimulated, via phosphorylation reactions that are sensitive to staurosporine, when the depolymerization of microtubules is enhanced.

Involvement of microtubules in the control of adhesion-dependent signal transduction

BACKGROUND

The adhesion of cells to the extracellular matrix (ECM) generates transmembrane signals that affect cell proliferation, differentiation and survival. These signals are triggered by interactions between integrin and the ECM and involve tyrosine phosphorylation of specific proteins, including focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and paxillin, and the assembly of focal adhesions and actin bundles. In matrix-adherent, serum-starved Swiss 3T3 cells, the system of focal adhesions and actin bundles is poorly developed, and the level of tyrosine phosphorylation of FAK and paxillin is low. A number of growth factors rapidly stimulate tyrosine phosphorylation of these proteins and the assembly of focal adhesions and actin bundles. Growth factors and adhesion to the ECM are both necessary for the subsequent transition of cells to the S-phase of the cell cycle.

RESULTS

In serum-starved Swiss 3T3 cells, the disruption of microtubules by nocodazole or vinblastine, without the addition of external growth factors, induces the rapid assembly of focal adhesions and microfilament bundles, tyrosine phosphorylation of FAK and paxillin, and subsequent enhancement of DNA synthesis. All these effects require cell adhesion to the ECM and do not occur when cells are plated on substrates coated with poly-L-lysine or concanavalin A. Inhibitors of tyrosine phosphorylation and cell contractility also eliminate the effects of microtubule disruption on adhesion-dependent signal transduction.

CONCLUSIONS

In ECM-attached cells, microtubule disruption activates the integrin-dependent signaling cascade, which leads to the assembly of matrix adhesions and the induction of DNA synthesis. The increase in cell contractility is an indispensable intermediate step in this signaling process.

Moving the Frontiers of Cancer Chemotherapy for Solid Tumors by Changing the Scope of Drug Development

Our increasing knowledge on the pathogenetic mechanisms involved in the growth of cancer cells and on the molecular basis of cancer has influenced the development of anticancer agents. The realization that new targets should be evaluated for anti-cancer drug treatment has a.o. led to the introduction of the taxoids and topoisomerase I inhibitors. Attacking the known targets in a more sophisticated way led to the development of drugs with increased target specificity like Tomudex and Gemcitabine. Finally, using old drugs more efficiently by using pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic ananlysis hold a promise for the near future.

Taxol inhibits neointimal smooth muscle cell accumulation after angioplasty in the rat

Despite significant improvements in the primary success rate of the medical and surgical treatments for atherosclerotic disease, including angioplasty, bypass grafting, and endarterectomy, secondary failure due to late restenosis continues to occur in 30-50% of individuals. Restenosis and the later stages in atherosclerotic lesions are due to a complex series of fibroproliferative responses to vascular injury involving potent growth-regulatory molecules (such as platelet-derived growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor) and resulting in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation, migration, and neointimal accumulation. We show here, based on experiments with both taxol and deuterium oxide, that microtubules are necessary for VSMCs to undergo the multiple transformations contributing to the development of the neointimal fibroproliferative lesion. Taxol was found to interfere both with platelet-derived growth factor-stimulated VSMC migration and with VSMC migration and with VSMC proliferation, at nanomolar levels in vitro. In vivo, taxol prevented medial VSMC proliferation and the neointimal VSMC accumulation in the rat carotid artery after balloon dilatation and endothelial denudation injury. This effect occurred at plasma levels approximately two orders of magnitude lower than that used clinically to treat human malignancy (peak levels achieved in this model were approximately 50-60 nM). Taxol may therefore be of therapeutic value in preventing human restenosis with minimal toxicity.

Cytoskeletal control of gene expression: depolymerization of microtubules activates NF-kappa B

Cell shape changes exert specific effects on gene expression. It has been speculated that the cytoskeleton is responsible for converting changes in the cytoarchitecture to effects on gene transcription. However, the signal transduction pathways responsible for cytoskeletal-nuclear communication remained unknown. We now provide evidence that a variety of agents and conditions that depolymerize microtubules activate the sequence-specific transcription factor NF-kappa B and induce NF kappa B-dependent gene expression. These effects are caused by depolymerization of microtubule because they are blocked by the microtubule-stabilizing agent taxol. In nonstimulated cells, the majority of NF-kappa B resides in the cytosplasm as a complex with its inhibitor I kappa B. Upon cell stimulation, NF-kappa B translocates to the nucleus with concomitant degradation of I kappa B. We show that cold-induced depolymerization of microtubules also leads to I kappa B degradation and activation of NF-kappa B. However, the activated factor remains in the cytoplasm and translocates to the nucleus only upon warming to 37 degrees C, thus revealing two distinct steps in NF-kappa B activation. These findings establish a new role for NF-kappa B in sensing changes in the state of the cytoskeleton and converting them to changes in gene activity.

Taxol cytotoxicity on human leukemia cell lines is a function of their susceptibility to programmed cell death

Taxol is the prototype of a class of antineoplastic drugs that target microtubules. It enhances tubulin-monomer polymerization and stabilizes tubulin polymers, increasing the fraction of cells in the G2 or M phase of the cell cycle. We report that treatment of HL-60 and U937 myeloid cell lines with 1-10 microM taxol induces DNA fragmentation and the appearance of morphological features consistent with the process of apoptosis. Taxol-induced apoptosis is inhibited neither by cycloheximide nor by actinomycin D and therefore appears to be independent of new protein synthesis. Taxol causes arrest in the G2 phase of the cell cycle and affects cell viability but does not induce DNA fragmentation in the K562 erythromyeloid cell line. Protein-synthesis inhibitors, colcemid, ionomycin, and starvation, known to trigger apoptosis, proved ineffective as well. These results suggest that the antineoplastic effect of taxol is mediated in susceptible cell lines by induction of the apoptotic machinery and that K562 partial resistance may depend upon the intrinsic inability of these tumor cells to undergo apoptosis.

Alterations in cellular gene expression without changes in nuclear matrix protein content

Cell metabolism and function are modulated in part by cell and nuclear shape. Nuclear shape is controlled by the nuclear matrix, the RNA-protein skeleton of the nucleus, and its interactions with cytoskeletal systems such as intermediate filaments and actin microfilaments. The nuclear matrix plays an important role in cell function and gene expression because active genes are bound to the nuclear matrix whereas inactive genes are not. It is unknown, however, how genes move on and off the matrix, and whether these events require compositional protein changes, i.e., alterations in protein content of the nuclear matrix, or other, more subtle alterations and/or modifications. The purpose of this investigation was to begin to determine how nuclear matrix protein composition is related to gene expression. We demonstrate that gene expression can change without apparent changes in the protein composition of the nuclear matrix in MCF10A breast epithelial cells.

Microtubule dependency of p34cdc2 inactivation and mitotic exit in mammalian cells

The protein kinase inhibitor 2-aminopurine induces checkpoint override and mitotic exit in BHK cells which have been arrested in mitosis by inhibitors of microtubule function (Andreassen, P. R., and R. L. Margolis. 1991. J. Cell Sci. 100:299-310). Mitotic exit is monitored by loss of MPM-2 antigen, by the reformation of nuclei, and by the extinction of p34cdc2-dependent H1 kinase activity. 2-AP-induced inactivation of p34cdc2 and mitotic exit depend on the assembly state of microtubules. During mitotic arrest generated by the microtubule assembly inhibitor nocodazole, the rate of mitotic exit induced by 2-AP decreases proportionally with increasing nocodazole concentrations. At nocodazole concentrations of 0.12 microgram/ml or greater, 2-AP induces no apparent exit through 75 min of treatment. In contrast, 2-AP brings about a rapid exit (t1/2 = 20 min) from mitotic arrest by taxol, a drug which causes inappropriate overassembly of microtubules. In control mitotic cells, p34cdc2 localizes to kinetochores, centrosomes, and spindle microtubules. We find that efficient exit from mitosis occurs under conditions where p34cdc2 remains associated with centrosomal microtubules, suggesting it must be present on these microtubules in order to be inactivated. Mitotic slippage, the natural reentry of cells into G1 during prolonged mitotic block, is also microtubule dependent. At high nocodazole concentrations slippage is prevented and mitotic arrest approaches 100%. We conclude that essential components of the machinery for exit from mitosis are present on the mitotic spindle, and that normal mitotic exit thereby may be regulated by the microtubule assembly state.

Induction of 18A2/mts1 gene expression and its effects on metastasis and cell cycle control

The metastasis associated 18A2/mtsI gene was inserted into the mammalian expression vector pMAMneo placing it under the control of the dexamethasone-inducible MMTV promoter. The construct was transfected into dexamethasone receptor negative F1 and receptor positive F10 cells of the B16 murine melanoma. The transferred gene was switched on in two transfectant clones of F10, by exposure to 10(-6) M dexamethasone, but not in clones of the receptor negative F1 line. One of the F10 transfectant clones (F10-192/10) was characterized further. A 13.5-fold increase in 18A2/mts1 transcripts was found in this clone upon exposure to dexamethasone. There was also a seven-fold increase in lung colonization in an experimental metastasis assay, together with increased expression of depolymerized tubulin and enhanced detection of p53 protein. The number of cells in the S phase increased by 2.5-fold following dexamethasone treatment of the clone. These data suggest a direct involvement of the 18A2/mts1 gene in lung colonization by the tumor cells. The 18A2/mts1 protein promotes tubulin depolymerization, sequesters the p53 phosphoprotein, and induces the cells to enter the S phase, but the relevance of these in the metastatic process remains to be elucidated.

Paclitaxel (Taxol) and docetaxel (Taxotere): not simply two of a kind

Paclitaxel and docetaxel are the two presently clinically available representatives of the new class of taxane drugs. They share major parts of their structures and mechanisms of action, but differ in several other aspects. For instance, there is a difference in their tubulin polymer generation, and docetaxel appears twice as active in depolymerization inhibition. In vitro docetaxel also tends to be more potent in different cell lines and investigational models. While in vitro and in vivo studies suggest that prolonged exposure to paclitaxel is better than a brief exposure, no such tendency is seen for docetaxel, indicating it to be a schedule-independent drug. Clinical studies have not confirmed an advantage for prolonged exposure to paclitaxel; but do show differences in the toxicity profiles of the two drugs. These topics will be addressed in detail.

Metastasis-associated mts1 gene expression correlates with increased p53 detection in the B16 murine melanoma

MTS1 is a metastasis-associated gene highly expressed in high-metastasis tumors. Here we show that the expression of the suppressor gene p53 protein correlates with mts1 expression. In murine melanoma B16-F1 cells, alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone up-regulated mts1 and increased p53 positivity in immunohistochemical tests. In B16-ML8 cells, retinoic acid reduced mts1 expression together with a reduction of p53 positivity. The variation of p53 in association with mts1 gene expression suggests that the mts1 product might interact with and stabilize p53. Taxol-induced aneuploidy increased the proportion of G0G1 phase cells, increased p53 positivity, and down-regulated mts1. This suggests that mts1 transcription may have been negatively regulated, possibly on account of the stabilization of microtubules by taxol. We postulate that the control of G1-S transition by p53 could be due to p53 sequestration by mts1, leading to microtubule depolymerization and signaling entry, into the S phase. Thus, a coordinated function of mts1 and p53 may be involved not only in uncontrolled growth but also in cytoskeletal depolymerization that could lead to cancer invasion.

Characterization of a taxol-resistant human small-cell lung cancer cell line

Taxol is a novel anticancer agent with activity against a broad range of tumors. It has a unique ability to stabilize polymerized tubulin into microtubule bundles within the cell. We have established a taxol-resistant human small-cell lung cancer cell line (H69/Txl) by exposing H69 cells to stepwise increases in taxol concentration. The resistance of H69/Txl cells to taxol was 4.7-fold that of the original H69 cells: the IC50 values for H69 and H69/Txl were 113.7 +/- 56.54 nM and 538.7 +/- 214.7 nM by the tetrazolium dye assay, respectively. Removal of the drug from the medium resulted in a 38% decrease in the growth rate of H69/Txl as compared with that in the presence of 30 nM taxol, suggesting that the growth of H69/Txl was partially dependent on taxol. H69/Txl showed higher sensitivity to vinca alkaloids such as vindesine, vincristine and vinblastine than the parental H69. There was no significant difference in intracellular [3H]taxol content between H69 and H69/Txl cells. No MDR-1 mRNA was detected in H69/Txl by the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. There was no significant difference of total and polymerized tubulin content between H69 and H69/Txl cells. Altered mobility of one of the alpha-tubulin isoforms in H69/Txl was revealed by using isoelectric focusing and Western blotting with anti-alpha-tubulin antibody. In H69, two alpha-tubulin isoforms were observed, whereas three were evident in H69/Txl, two of them comigrating with the isoforms of H69 and the other being more acidic. We observed the increased acetylation of alpha-tubulin in H69/Txl cells as compared with that in H69 cells. The acetylation of alpha-tubulin may be responsible for the taxol resistance and/or taxol-dependent growth of H69/Txl.