Delay in granular fusion evoked by repetitive cytosolic Ca2+ spikes in mouse pancreatic acinar cells

The role of Ca2+ signalling in the pathology of exocrine pancreas

Exocrine pancreas has been the field of many successful studies in pancreatic physiology and pathology. However, related disease - acute pancreatitis (AP) is still takes it toll with more than 100,000 related deaths worldwide per year. In spite of significant scientific progress and several human trials currently running for AP, there is still no specific treatment in the clinic. Studies of the mechanism of initiation of AP have identified two crucial conditions: sustained elevations of cytoplasmic calcium concentration (Ca2+ plateau) and significantly reduced intracellular energy (ATP depletion). These hallmarks are interdependent, i.e., Ca2+ plateau increase energy demand for its clearance while energy production is greatly affected by the pathology. Result of long standing Ca2+ plateau is destabilisation of the secretory granules and premature activation of the digestive enzymes leading to necrotic cell death. Main attempts so far to break the vicious circle of cell death have been concentrated on reduction of Ca2+ overload or reduction of ATP depletion. This review will summarise these approaches, including recent developments of potential therapies for AP.

Watching Living Cells in Action in the Exocrine Pancreas: The Palade Prize Lecture

George Palade's pioneering electron microscopical studies of the pancreatic acinar cell revealed the intracellular secretory pathway from the rough endoplasmic reticulum at the base of the cell to the zymogen granules in the apical region. Palade also described for the first time the final stage of exocytotic enzyme secretion into the acinar lumen. The contemporary studies of the mechanism by which secretion is acutely controlled, and how the pancreas is destroyed in the disease acute pancreatitis, rely on monitoring molecular events in the various identified pancreatic cell types in the living pancreas. These studies have been carried out with the help of high-resolution fluorescence recordings, often in conjunction with patch clamp current measurements. In such studies we have gained much detailed information about the regulatory events in the exocrine pancreas in health as well as disease, and new therapeutic opportunities have been revealed.

The roles of calcium and ATP in the physiology and pathology of the exocrine pancreas

This review deals with the roles of calcium ions and ATP in the control of the normal functions of the different cell types in the exocrine pancreas as well as the roles of these molecules in the pathophysiology of acute pancreatitis. Repetitive rises in the local cytosolic calcium ion concentration in the apical part of the acinar cells not only activate exocytosis but also, via an increase in the intramitochondrial calcium ion concentration, stimulate the ATP formation that is needed to fuel the energy-requiring secretion process. However, intracellular calcium overload, resulting in a global sustained elevation of the cytosolic calcium ion concentration, has the opposite effect of decreasing mitochondrial ATP production, and this initiates processes that lead to necrosis. In the last few years it has become possible to image calcium signaling events simultaneously in acinar, stellate, and immune cells in intact lobules of the exocrine pancreas. This has disclosed processes by which these cells interact with each other, particularly in relation to the initiation and development of acute pancreatitis. By unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying this disease, several promising therapeutic intervention sites have been identified. This provides hope that we may soon be able to effectively treat this often fatal disease.

The p.E152K-STIM1 mutation deregulates Ca2+ signaling contributing to chronic pancreatitis

Since deregulation of intracellular Ca²⁺ can lead to intracellular trypsin activation, and stromal interaction molecule-1 (STIM1) protein is the main regulator of Ca²⁺ homeostasis in pancreatic acinar cells, we explored the Ca²⁺ signaling in 37 STIM1 variants found in three pancreatitis patient cohorts. Extensive functional analysis of one particular variant, p.E152K, identified in three patients, provided a plausible link between dysregulated Ca²⁺ signaling within pancreatic acinar cells and chronic pancreatitis susceptibility. Specifically, p.E152K, located within the STIM1 EF-hand and sterile α-motif domain, increased the release of Ca²⁺ from the endoplasmic reticulum in patient-derived fibroblasts and transfected HEK293T cells. This event was mediated by altered STIM1-sarco/endoplasmic reticulum calcium transport ATPase (SERCA) conformational change and enhanced SERCA pump activity leading to increased store-operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE). In pancreatic AR42J cells expressing the p.E152K variant, Ca²⁺ signaling perturbations correlated with defects in trypsin activation and secretion, and increased cytotoxicity after cholecystokinin stimulation.This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.

Ca2+ tunnelling through the ER lumen as a mechanism for delivering Ca2+ entering via store-operated Ca2+ channels to specific target sites

Ca²⁺ signalling is perhaps the most universal and versatile mechanism regulating a wide range of cellular processes. Because of the many different calcium‐binding proteins distributed throughout cells, signalling precision requires localized rises in the cytosolic Ca²⁺ concentration. In electrically non‐excitable cells, for example epithelial cells, this is achieved by primary release of Ca²⁺ from the endoplasmic reticulum via Ca²⁺ release channels placed close to the physiological target. Because any rise in the cytosolic Ca²⁺ concentration activates Ca²⁺ extrusion, and in order for cells not to run out of Ca²⁺, there is a need for compensatory Ca²⁺ uptake from the extracellular fluid. This Ca²⁺ uptake occurs through a process known as store‐operated Ca²⁺ entry. Ideally Ca²⁺ entering the cell should not diffuse to the target site through the cytosol, as this would potentially activate undesirable processes. Ca²⁺ tunnelling through the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum is a mechanism for delivering Ca²⁺ entering via store‐operated Ca²⁺ channels to specific target sites, and this process has been described in considerable detail in pancreatic acinar cells and oocytes. Here we review the most important evidence and present a generalized concept.

Calcium signalling and secretory epithelia

Ca(2+) is now firmly established as the most important intracellular regulator of physiological and pathological events in a vast number of different cell types, including secretory epithelia. In these tissues, Ca(2+) signalling is crucially important for the control of both fluid secretion and electrolyte secretion as well as the regulation of macromolecule secretion. In this overview article, I shall attempt to give some general background to the concepts underlying our current thinking about Ca(2+) signalling in epithelia and its roles in regulating secretion. It is outside the scope of this review to provide a comprehensive account of Ca(2+) signalling and the many different processes in the many different secretory epithelia that are controlled by Ca(2+) signals. It is my aim to draw attention to some general features of Ca(2+) signalling processes in secretory epithelia, which are rather different from those in, for example, endocrine glands. The principal examples will be taken from studies of exocrine cells and, in particular, pancreatic acinar cells, as they are the pioneer cells with regard to investigations of Ca(2+) signalling due to primary intracellular Ca(2+) release. They also represent the cell type which has been characterized in most detail with regard to Ca(2+) transport events and mechanisms.

The role of Ca2+ in the pathophysiology of pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is a human disease in which the pancreatic pro-enzymes, packaged into the zymogen granules of acinar cells, become activated and cause autodigestion. The main causes of pancreatitis are alcohol abuse and biliary disease. A considerable body of evidence indicates that the primary event initiating the disease process is the excessive release of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores, followed by excessive entry of Ca(2+) from the interstitial fluid. However, Ca(2+) release and subsequent entry are also precisely the processes that control the physiological secretion of digestive enzymes in response to stimulation via the vagal nerve or the hormone cholecystokinin. The spatial and temporal Ca(2+) signal patterns in physiology and pathology, as well as the contributions from different organelles in the different situations, are therefore critical issues. There has recently been significant progress in our understanding of both physiological stimulus-secretion coupling and the pathophysiology of acute pancreatitis. Very recently, a promising potential therapeutic development has occurred with the demonstration that the blockade of Ca(2+) release-activated Ca(2+) currents in pancreatic acinar cells offers remarkable protection against Ca(2+) overload, intracellular protease activation and necrosis evoked by a combination of alcohol and fatty acids, which is a major trigger of acute pancreatitis.

Mitochondrial function and malfunction in the pathophysiology of pancreatitis

As a primary energy producer, mitochondria play a fundamental role in pancreatic exocrine physiology and pathology. The most frequent aetiology of acute pancreatitis is either gallstones or heavy alcohol consumption. Repeated episodes of acute pancreatitis can result in the development of chronic pancreatitis and increase the lifetime risk of pancreatic cancer 100-fold. Pancreatic cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer mortality with only about 3-4 % of patients surviving beyond 5 years. It has been shown that acute pancreatitis involves Ca²⁺ overload and overproduction of reactive oxygen species in pancreatic acinar cells. Both factors significantly affect mitochondria and lead to cell death. The pathogenesis of inflammation in acute and chronic pancreatitis is tightly linked to the induction of necrosis and apoptosis. There is currently no specific therapy for pancreatitis, but recent findings of an endogenous protective mechanism against Ca²⁺ overload--and particularly the potential to boost this protection--bring hope of new therapeutic approaches.

Specific mitochondrial functions in separate sub-cellular domains of pancreatic acinar cells

The pancreatic acinar cell synthesizes many digestive proenzymes, which are packaged into secretory (zymogen) granules and secreted by exocytosis upon the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, released from vagal nerve endings, or the hormone cholecystokinin. These secretagogues mobilize Ca(2+) from internal stores and thereby create the cytosolic Ca(2+) signals that control exocytosis. Exocytosis requires Ca(2+), Mg(2+) and ATP. Mg(2+) is present in millimolars concentration throughout the cytosol, but high cytosolic Ca(2+) concentrations need to be created in the local domains near the apical plasma membrane. A special group of mitochondria surrounding the apical granular area play a crucial role in confining cytosolic Ca(2+) elevations to this part of the cell by acting as a Ca(2+) buffer barrier. The Ca(2+) uptake into these mitochondria during apical Ca(2+) spiking stimulates mitochondrial ATP synthesis. ATP is also required for Ca(2+) extrusion via the plasma membrane Ca(2+) pumps, mainly located in the apical area, as well as for Ca(2+) reuptake into the endoplasmic reticulum. Because Ca(2+) extrusion occurs during Ca(2+) spiking, there is a need for compensatory Ca(2+) entry via store-operated Ca(2+) channels. Sub-plasmalemmal (peripheral) mitochondria play an important role in supporting both store-operated Ca(2+) entry at the base as well as the subsequent Ca(2+) pumping into the endoplasmic reticulum. A third group of mitochondria surround the nucleus. They protect the nucleus against unwarranted Ca(2+) signals generated elsewhere and are capable of confining Ca(2+) signals primarily generated inside the nucleus to this part of the cell.

Exocytosis, dependent on Ca2+ release from Ca2+ stores, is regulated by Ca2+ microdomains

The relationship between the cellular Ca2+ signal and secretory vesicle fusion (exocytosis) is a key determinant of the regulation of the kinetics and magnitude of the secretory response. Here, we have investigated secretion in cells where the exocytic response is controlled by Ca2+ release from intracellular Ca2+ stores. Using live-cell two-photon microscopy that simultaneously records Ca2+signals and exocytic responses, we provide evidence that secretion is controlled by changes in Ca2+ concentration [Ca2+] in relatively large-volume microdomains. Our evidence includes: (1) long latencies (>2 seconds) between the rise in [Ca2+] and exocytosis, (2) observation of exocytosis all along the lumen and not clustered around Ca2+ release hot-spots, (3) high affinity (Kd=1.75 microM) Ca2+dependence of exocytosis, (4) significant reduction in exocytosis in the presence of cytosolic EGTA, (5) spatial exclusion of secretory granules from the cell membrane by the endoplasmic reticulum, and (6) inability of local Ca2+ responses to trigger exocytosis. These results strongly indicate that the control of exocytosis, triggered by Ca2+ release from stores, is through the regulation of cytosolic[Ca2+] within a microdomain.

Evidence for the existence of secretory granule (dense-core vesicle)-based inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-dependent Ca2+ signaling system in astrocytes

BACKGROUND

The gliotransmitters released from astrocytes are deemed to play key roles in the glial cell-neuron communication for normal function of the brain. The gliotransmitters, such as glutamate, ATP, D-serine, neuropeptide Y, are stored in vesicles of astrocytes and secreted following the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-induced intracellular Ca2+ releases. Yet studies on the identity of the IP3-dependent intracellular Ca2+ stores remain virtually unexplored.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

We have therefore studied the potential existence of the IP3-sensitive intracellular Ca2+ stores in the cytoplasm of astrocytes using human brain tissue samples in contrast to cultured astrocytes that had primarily been used in the past. It was thus found that secretory granule marker proteins chromogranins and secretogranin II localize in the large dense core vesicles of astrocytes, thereby confirming the large dense core vesicles as bona fide secretory granules. Moreover, consistent with the major IP3-dependent intracellular Ca2+ store role of secretory granules in secretory cells, secretory granules of astrocytes also contained all three (types 1, 2, and 3) IP3R isoforms.

SIGNIFICANCE

Given that the secretory granule marker proteins chromogranins and secretogranin II are high-capacity, low-affinity Ca2+ storage proteins and chromogranins interact with the IP3Rs to activate the IP3R/Ca2+ channels, i.e., increase both the mean open time and the open probability of the channels, these results imply that secretory granules of astrocytes function as the IP3-sensitive intracellular Ca2+ store.

Pancreatic acinar cell: new insights into the control of secretion

Pancreatic acinar cells secrete fluid and digestive enzymes. Both types of secretion are activated by a rise in intracellular calcium but how the stimulus-secretion cascade actually regulates secretory output is not well understood. It has long been known that the calcium response of acinar cells to physiological stimulation is complex. Dependent on the type and concentration of agonist, it consists of either local or global calcium increases as well as spreading waves of calcium across the cell. In the past it has been speculated that these different calcium signals drive different secretory responses. Now, recent employment of two-photon microscopy has enabled the simultaneous recording of both enzyme secretion and calcium signals and is beginning to resolve this issue. The data shows that local calcium responses exclusively drive fluid secretion. Where-as, global calcium responses drive both fluid and enzyme secretion. This differential control of secretory output is likely central to controlling the physiological responses of pancreatic acinar cells.

Secretory granules in inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-dependent Ca2+ signaling in the cytoplasm of neuroendocrine cells

Of all the intracellular organelles, secretory granules contain by far the highest calcium concentration; secretory granules of typical neuroendocrine chromaffin cells contain approximately 40 mM Ca(2+) and occupy approximately 20% cell volume, accounting for >60% of total cellular calcium. They also contain the majority of cellular inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP(3)Rs) in addition to the presence of >2 mM of chromogranins A and B that function as high-capacity, low-affinity Ca(2+) storage proteins. Chromogranins A and B also interact with the IP(3)Rs and activate the IP(3)R/Ca(2+) channels. In experiments with both neuroendocrine PC12 and nonneuroendocrine NIH3T3 cells, in which the number of secretory granules present was changed by either suppression or induction of secretory granule formation, secretory granules were demonstrated to account for >70% of the IP(3)-induced Ca(2+) releases in the cytoplasm. Moreover, the IP(3) sensitivity of secretory granule IP(3)R/Ca(2+) channels is at least approximately 6- to 7-fold more sensitive than those of the endoplasmic reticulum, thus enabling secretory granules to release Ca(2+) ahead of the endoplasmic reticulum. Further, there is a direct correlation between the number of secretory granules and the IP(3) sensitivity of cytoplasmic IP(3)R/Ca(2+) channels and the increased ratio of IP(3)-induced cytoplasmic Ca(2+) release, highlighting the importance of secretory granules in the IP(3)-dependent Ca(2+) signaling. Given that secretory granules are present in all secretory cells, these results presage critical roles of secretory granules in the control of cytoplasmic Ca(2+) concentrations in other secretory cells.-Yoo, S. H. Secretory granules in inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-dependent Ca(2+) signaling in the cytoplasm of neuroendocrine cells.

Calcium elevation in mitochondria is the main Ca2+ requirement for mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening

We have investigated in detail the role of intra-organelle Ca2+ content during induction of apoptosis by the oxidant menadione while changing and monitoring the Ca2+ load of endoplasmic reticulum (ER), mitochondria, and acidic organelles. Menadione causes production of reactive oxygen species, induction of oxidative stress, and subsequently apoptosis. In both pancreatic acinar and pancreatic tumor AR42J cells, menadione was found to induce repetitive cytosolic Ca2+ responses because of the release of Ca2+ from both ER and acidic stores. Ca2+ responses to menadione were accompanied by elevation of Ca2+ in mitochondria, mitochondrial depolarization, and mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening. Emptying of both the ER and acidic Ca2+ stores did not necessarily prevent menadione-induced apoptosis. High mitochondrial Ca2+ at the time of menadione application was the major factor determining cell fate. However, if mitochondria were prevented from loading with Ca2+ with 10 mum RU360, then caspase-9 activation did not occur irrespective of the content of other Ca2+ stores. These results were confirmed by ratiometric measurements of intramitochondrial Ca2+ with pericam. We conclude that elevated Ca2+ in mitochondria is the crucial factor in determining whether cells undergo oxidative stress-induced apoptosis.

Polarized calcium signaling in exocrine gland cells

Cytosolic Ca2+ signals are crucial for the control of fluid and enzyme secretion from exocrine glands. The highly polarized exocrine acinar cells have evolved sophisticated and complex Ca2+ signaling mechanisms that exercise precise control of the secretory events occurring across the apical plasma membrane bordering the gland lumen. Ca2+ stores in the endoplasmic reticulum, the secretory granules, the lysosomes, and the endosomes all play important roles in the generation of the local apical Ca2+ spikes that switch on Cl(-) channels in the apical plasma membrane as well as exocytotic export of enzymes. The mitochondria are crucial not only for ATP generation but also for the physiologically important subcellular compartmentalization of the cytosolic Ca2+ signals.

Why does pancreatic overstimulation cause pancreatitis?

Many animal models are available to investigate the pathogenesis of pancreatitis, an inflammatory disorder of the pancreas. However, the secretagogue hyperstimulation model of pancreatitis is the most commonly used. Animals infused with high doses of cholecystokinin (CCK) exhibit hyperamylasemia, pancreatic edema, and acinar cell injury, which closely mimic pancreatitis in humans. Intra-acinar zymogen activation is an essential early event in the pathogenesis of secretagogue-induced pancreatitis. Early in the course of pancreatitis, lysosomal hydrolases colocalize with digestive zymogens and activate them. These activated zymogens then cause acinar cell injury and necrosis, a characteristic of pancreatitis. Besides being the site of initiation of injury in pancreatitis, acinar cells also synthesize and release cytokines and chemokines very early in the course of pancreatitis, which then attract and activate inflammatory cells and initiate the disease's systemic phase.

Mechanisms of acinar cell injury in acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis has many causes, all leading to a common pathway of changes within the pancreatic acinar cell. Key amongst these changes is premature intracellular activation of digestive enzymes but this is also accompanied by the appearance of cytosolic vacuoles, co-localization of digestive and lysosomal enzymes, activation of NF-kappaB, and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The exact mechanism responsible for enzyme activation remains the subject of much research effort and not a little debate, however it is clear that all of these changes are triggered by an abnormal, sustained rise in cytosolic calcium concentration, which is itself dependent both on release of calcium from endoplasmic reticulum stores and uptake from the extracellular milieu. Activated enzymes are directly damaging to the acinar cell themselves, but recruitment of circulating neutrophils leads to further cellular damage. Cytokines and neutrophil activation are also responsible for the systemic inflammatory response typically seen in severe acute pancreatitis.

The specificity of Ca2+ signalling

A calcium signal is a sudden increase in concentration of calcium ions (Ca2+) in the cytosol. Such signals are crucial for the control of many important functions of the body. In the brain, for example, Ca2+ signals are responsible for memory, in muscle cells they switch on contraction, whereas in gland cells they are responsible for regulation of secretion. In many cases Ca2+ signals can control several different processes in the same cell. As an example, we shall deal with one particular cell type, namely the pancreatic acinar cell, which is responsible for the secretion of the enzymes essential for the digestion of food. In this cell, Ca2+ signals do not only control the normal enzyme secretion, but also regulate growth (cell division) and programmed cell death (apoptosis). Until recently, it was a mystery how the same type of signal could regulate such diverse functions in one and the same cell. Recent technical advances have shown that different patterns of Ca2+ signals can be created, in space and time, which allow specific cellular responses to be elicited.

Transformation of local Ca2+ spikes to global Ca2+ transients: the combinatorial roles of multiple Ca2+ releasing messengers

In pancreatic acinar cells, low, threshold concentrations of acetylcholine (ACh) or cholecystokinin (CCK) induce repetitive local cytosolic Ca2+ spikes in the apical pole, while higher concentrations elicit global signals. We have investigated the process that transforms local Ca2+ spikes to global Ca2+ transients, focusing on the interactions of multiple intracellular messengers. ACh-elicited local Ca2+ spikes were transformed into a global sustained Ca2+ response by cyclic ADP-ribose (cADPR) or nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP), whereas inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) had a much weaker effect. In contrast, the response elicited by a low CCK concentration was strongly potentiated by IP3, whereas cADPR and NAADP had little effect. Experiments with messenger mixtures revealed a local interaction between IP3 and NAADP and a stronger global potentiating interaction between cADPR and NAADP. NAADP strongly amplified the local Ca2+ release evoked by a cADPR/IP3 mixture eliciting a vigorous global Ca2+ response. Different combinations of Ca2+ releasing messengers can shape the spatio-temporal patterns of cytosolic Ca2+ signals. NAADP and cADPR are emerging as key messengers in the globalization of Ca2+ signals.

Menadione-induced apoptosis: roles of cytosolic Ca2+elevations and the mitochondrial permeability transition pore

In normal pancreatic acinar cells, the oxidant menadione evokes repetitive cytosolic Ca2+ spikes, partial mitochondrial depolarisation,cytochrome c release and apoptosis. The physiological agonists acetylcholine and cholecystokinin also evoke cytosolic Ca2+ spikes but do not depolarise mitochondria and fail to induce apoptosis. Ca2+ spikes induced by low agonist concentrations are confined to the apical secretory pole of the cell by the buffering action of perigranular mitochondria. Menadione prevents mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake, which permits rapid spread of Ca2+ throughout the cell. Menadione-induced mitochondrial depolarisation is due to induction of the permeability transition pore. Blockade of the permeability transition pore with bongkrekic acid prevents activation of caspase 9 and 3. In contrast, the combination of antimycin A and acetylcholine does not cause apoptosis but elicits a global cytosolic Ca2+ rise and mitochondrial depolarisation without induction of the permeability transition pore. Increasing the cytosolic Ca2+buffering power by BAPTA prevents cytosolic Ca2+ spiking, blocks the menadione-elicited mitochondrial depolarisation and blocks menadione-induced apoptosis. These results suggest a twin-track model in which both intracellular release of Ca2+ and induction of the permeability transition pore are required for initiation of apoptosis.

Localization of three types of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor/Ca(2+) channel in the secretory granules and coupling with the Ca(2+) storage proteins chromogranins A and B

Although the role of secretory granules as the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3))-sensitive intracellular Ca(2+) store and the presence of the IP(3) receptor (IP(3)R)/Ca(2+) channel on the secretory granule membrane have been established, the identity of the IP(3)R types present in the secretory granules is not known. We have therefore investigated the presence of different types of IP(3)R in the secretory granules of bovine adrenal medullary chromaffin cells using immunogold electron microscopy and found the existence of all three types of IP(3)R in the secretory granules. To determine whether these IP(3)Rs interact with CGA and CGB, each IP(3)R isoform was co-transfected with CGA or CGB into NIH3T3 or COS-7 cells, and the expressed IP(3)R isoform and CGA or CGB were co-immunoprecipitated. From these studies it was shown that all three types of IP(3)R form complexes with CGA and CGB in the cells. To further confirm whether the IP(3)R isoforms and CGA and CGB form a complex in the secretory granules the potential interaction between all three isoforms of IP(3)R and CGA and CGB was tested by co-immunoprecipitation experiments of the mixture of secretory granule lysates and the granule membrane proteins. The three isoforms of IP(3)R were shown to form complexes with CGA and CGB, indicating the complex formation between the three isoforms of IP(3)R and CGA and CGB in the secretory granules. Moreover, the pH-dependent Ca(2+) binding property of CGB was also studied using purified recombinant CGB, and it was shown that CGB bound 93 mol of Ca(2+)/mol with a dissociation constant (K(d)) of 1.5 mm at pH 5.5 but virtually no Ca(2+) at pH 7.5. The high capacity, low affinity Ca(2+)-binding property of CGB at pH 5.5 is comparable with that of CGA and is in line with its role as a Ca(2+) storage protein in the secretory granules.

Membrane repair: Ca(2+)-elicited lysosomal exocytosis

Cells in exposed positions are subject to injury and therefore need membrane repair mechanisms. Ca(2+) entry inevitably follows membrane rupture and recent studies indicate that this elicits repair via Ca(2+)-activated exocytosis of lysosomes, regulated by lysosomal synaptotagmin VII.

Local uncaging of caged Ca(2+) reveals distribution of Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channels in pancreatic acinar cells

In exocrine acinar cells, Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channels in the apical membrane are essential for fluid secretion, but it is unclear whether such channels are important for Cl(-) uptake at the base. Whole-cell current recording, combined with local uncaging of caged Ca(2+), was used to reveal the Cl(-) channel distribution in mouse pancreatic acinar cells, where approximately 90% of the current activated by Ca(2+) in response to acetylcholine was carried by Cl(-). When caged Ca(2+) in the cytosol was uncaged locally in the apical pole, the Cl(-) current was activated, whereas local Ca(2+) uncaging in the basal or lateral areas of the cell had no effect. Even when Ca(2+) was uncaged along the whole inner surface of the basolateral membrane, no Cl(-) current was elicited. There was little current deactivation at a high cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](c)), but at a low [Ca(2+)](c) there was clear voltage-dependent deactivation, which increased with hyperpolarization. Functional Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channels are expressed exclusively in the apical membrane and channel opening is strictly regulated by [Ca(2+)](c) and membrane potential. Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channels do not mediate Cl(-) uptake at the base, but acetylcholine-elicited local [Ca(2+)](c) spiking in the apical pole can regulate fluid secretion by controlling the opening of these channels in the apical membrane.

Perinuclear, perigranular and sub-plasmalemmal mitochondria have distinct functions in the regulation of cellular calcium transport

We have identified three distinct groups of mitochondria in normal living pancreatic acinar cells, located (i) in the peripheral basolateral region close to the plasma membrane, (ii) around the nucleus and (iii) in the periphery of the granular region separating the granules from the basolateral area. Three-dimensional reconstruction of confocal slices showed that the perigranular mitochondria form a barrier surrounding the whole of the granular region. Cytosolic Ca(2+) oscillations initiated in the granular area triggered mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake mainly in the perigranular area. The most intensive uptake occurred in the mitochondria close to the apical plasma membrane. Store-operated Ca(2+) influx through the basolateral membrane caused preferential Ca(2+) uptake into sub-plasmalemmal mitochondria. The perinuclear mitochondria were activated specifically by local uncaging of Ca(2+) in the nucleus. These mitochondria could isolate nuclear and cytosolic Ca(2+) signalling. Photobleaching experiments indicated that different groups of mitochondria were not luminally connected. The three mitochondrial groups are activated independently by specific spatiotemporal patterns of cytosolic Ca(2+) signals and can therefore participate in the local regulation of Ca(2+) homeostasis and energy supply.

Sequential-replenishment mechanism of exocytosis in pancreatic acini

Here we report exocytosis of zymogen granules, as examined by multiphoton excitation imaging in intact pancreatic acini. Cholecystokinin induces Ca 2+ oscillations that trigger exocytosis when the cytosolic Ca 2+ concentration exceeds 1 microM. Zymogen granules fused with the plasma membrane maintain their Omega-shaped profile for an average of 220 s and serve as targets for sequential fusion of granules that are located within deeper layers of the cell. This secondary exocytosis occurs as rapidly as the primary exocytosis and accounts for most exocytotic events. Granule-granule fusion does not seem to precede primary exocytosis, indicating that secondary fusion events may require a plasma-membrane factor. This sequential-replenishment mechanism of exocytosis allows the cell to take advantage of a large supply of fusion-ready granules without needing to transport them to the plasma membrane.

Identification of cyclic ADP-ribose-dependent mechanisms in pancreatic muscarinic Ca(2+) signaling using CD38 knockout mice

We showed that muscarinic acetylcholine (ACh)-stimulation increased the cellular content of cADPR in the pancreatic acinar cells from normal mice but not in those from CD38 knockout mice. By monitoring ACh-evoked increases in the cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) using fura-2 microfluorimetry, we distinguished and characterized the Ca(2+) release mechanisms responsive to cADPR. The Ca(2+) response from the cells of the knockout mice (KO cells) lacked two components of the muscarinic Ca(2+) release present in wild mice. The first component inducible by the low concentration of ACh contributed to regenerative Ca(2+) spikes. This component was abolished by ryanodine treatment in the normal cells and was severely impaired in KO cells, indicating that the low ACh-induced regenerative spike responses were caused by cADPR-dependent Ca(2+) release from a pool regulated by a class of ryanodine receptors. The second component inducible by the high concentration of ACh was involved in the phasic Ca(2+) response, and it was not abolished by ryanodine treatment. Overall, we conclude that muscarinic Ca(2+) signaling in pancreatic acinar cells involves a CD38-dependent pathway responsible for two cADPR-dependent Ca(2+) release mechanisms in which the one sensitive to ryanodine plays a crucial role for the generation of repetitive Ca(2+) spikes.

Real-time studies of zymogen granule exocytosis in intact rat pancreatic acinar cells

An adequate understanding of secretion requires the measurement of exocytosis on the same time scale as that used for second messenger dynamics. To investigate the kinetics of ACh-evoked secretion in pancreatic acinar cells, exocytosis of zymogen granules was quantified by continuous, time-differential analysis of digital images. The validity of this method was confirmed by simultaneous fluorescence imaging of quinacrine-loaded zymogen granules. Basal rates of exocytosis were low (0.2 events min(-1)). ACh stimulated a biphasic increase in secretory activity, maximal rates exceeding 20 events min(-1) after 10 s of ACh application (10 microM). Over the next 15 s the rate of exocytosis fell to less than 4 events min(-1); then began a second phase of secretion that peaked 15 s later at approximately 11 events min(-1), but subsequently declined in the continued presence of agonist. Measurements of fura-2 fluorescence demonstrated a biphasic increase in intracellular [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]i). Comparison of the [Ca2+]i records and time-differential analysis revealed that the fall in exocytotic rate following the initial burst occurred despite the fact that [Ca2+]i remained high. The second phase of secretion depended on both [Ca2+]i and [ACh]. At 10 microM ACh there was a decrease in the steepness of the relationship between [Ca2+]i and exocytosis that led to an enhancement of the slow secretory phase. We propose that acinar cells contain two pools of secretory vesicles: a small pool of granules that is exocytosed rapidly, but is quickly depleted; and a reserve pool of granules that can be recruited by ACh in a process that is modulated by second messengers other than calcium.

Menadione-induced oxidative stress inhibits cholecystokinin-stimulated secretion of pancreatic acini by cell dehydration

The present study evaluated the effects of free radicals generated by menadione on morphology and function of pancreatic acinar cells focusing on enzyme secretion, stimulus-secretion coupling, and cell hydration. Various experiments evaluated morphology and function of isolated rat pancreatic acinar cells exposed to menadione. Menadione instantaneously generated free radicals (luminol and deoxyribose assays) followed by a time-dependent cell injury (uptake of trypan blue). Early ultrastructural changes included vacuolization and alterations of mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and nucleus. Menadione caused a rapid glutathione oxidation followed by a depletion in reduced glutathione. An increase in lipid peroxides and a depletion of adenosine triphosphate were seen only after 30-60 minutes. Menadione markedly inhibited amylase release stimulated by cholecystokinin (CCK) and carbachol and simultaneously caused cell shrinkage after a few minutes. Similar degrees of cell shrinkage induced by hyperosmolar incubation and by menadione inhibited amylase secretion to a similar extent. CCK binding and its effect on calcium and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) were not affected by menadione. Menadione (without CCK) induced an instantaneous increase of intracellular calcium followed by a slow constant increase. In single cells, menadione induced calcium oscillations with a frequency lower than that seen after CCK stimulation. Some morphologic and functional alterations owing to menadione-induced oxidative stress may be caused by adenosine triphosphate and glutathione depletion, lipid peroxidation, and changes in cytosolic calcium. The marked inhibition of secretagogue-stimulated enzyme secretion owing to menadione may be mediated to a large part by cell dehydration, whereas classical steps of stimulus-secretion coupling like receptor binding, calcium release, and IP3 generation remained unchanged.

Dynamics of surfactant release in alveolar type II cells

Pulmonary surfactant, secreted via exocytosis of lamellar bodies (LB) by alveolar type II (AT II) cells, maintains low alveolar surface tension and is therefore essential for normal lung function. Here we describe real-time monitoring of exocytotic activity in these cells by visualizing and quantifying LB fusion with the plasma membrane (PM). Two approaches were used. First, fluorescence of LysoTracker Green DND-26 (LTG) in LB disappeared when the dye was released after exocytosis. Second, phospholipid staining by FM 1-43 resulted in bright fluorescence when this dye entered the LB through the fusion pore. Both processes were restricted to and colocalized with LB and occurred simultaneously. In AT II cells, FM 1-43 offered the unique advantage to independently define the moment and cellular location of single exocytotic events as well as the amount of material released, and to monitor its extracellular fate. Furthermore, both dyes could be used in combination with fura-2. The results indicate considerable diversity in the dynamics of LB exocytosis. In the majority of cells stimulated with ATP and isoproterenol, the first fusion of LB coincided with the rise of [Ca2+]i, but subsequent response of other LB in the same cell considerably outlasted this signal. In other cells, however, the onset of exocytosis was delayed by several minutes. After LB fusion, release of surfactant from LB into an aqueous solution was slow. In summary, stimulated exocytosis in AT II cells occurs at a much slower rate than in most other secretory cells but is still a more dynamic process than predicted from conventional measurements of surfactant released into cell supernatants.

Neutrophil elastase promotes rapid exocytosis in human airway gland cells by producing cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations

The molecular and ionic mechanisms responsible for the regulation of mucus exocytosis in human airway gland cells remain poorly defined. To determine whether dynamic changes of intracellular free Ca2+ concentration [Ca2+]i can promote different exocytotic responses, we monitored dynamic changes in [Ca2+]i and secretory granule (SG) exocytosis in individual human tracheal submucosal serous gland (HTG) cells. These changes were in response to exposure of the cells to three different secretagogues associated with airway inflammation and disease: human neutrophil elastase (HNE), histamine, and ATP. Dynamic changes in [Ca2+]i from single cells were determined with Indo-1/AM using quantitative UV laser microspectrofluorometry. The rate of SG exocytosis was measured in single cells by fluorescence videomicroscopy of SG degranulation and by the ELISA method. Exposure of HTG cells to a low concentration of HNE (1.0 microM) caused a high rate of SG exocytosis (52% decrease in the initial quinacrine fluorescence) during the first 8-min stimulation period compared with that observed following exposure of the cells to 100 microM histamine (10% decrease) or 100 microM ATP (6% decrease). In contrast to a rapid and transient rise in [Ca2+]i induced by histamine (1.0-100 microM) and ATP (10-100 microM), HNE (0.01-1 microM) generated asynchronous oscillations in [Ca2+]i over the first 8-min period. Depletion of internal Ca2+ stores with thapsigargin (500 nM) induced a significant reduction (P < 0.01) in the observed increases in [Ca2+]i upon addition of each of the secretagogues, but did not greatly affect the SG exocytotic responses. Interestingly, the removal of extracellular Ca2+ (+5 mM EGTA) significantly reduced (P < 0.01) both the [Ca2+]i increases and the rate of SG exocytosis following exposure to the secretagogues. We also demonstrate that the influx of extracellular Ca2+ and [Ca2+]i oscillations rather than the absolute level of [Ca2+]i regulate the rapid onset and extent of exocytotic responses to HNE in airway gland cells. Taken together, these results provide strong evidence that [Ca2+]i is a critical intracellular messenger in the regulation of exocytosis process in human airway gland cells.

Different time courses of GTP[gamma-S]-induced exocytosis and current oscillations in isolated mouse pancreatic acinar cells

Exocytosis in isolated mouse pancreatic acinar cells was investigated using the dual-frequency method for measuring membrane capacitance and ionic conductances. Under control conditions, single exo- and endocytotic events could be resolved. The total cell capacitance slightly decreased to 98.7 +/- 0.9% of the initial cell capacitance within 10 min after establishing the whole-cell configuration. When guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiophosphate) (GTP[gamma-S] was added to the patch pipette, stepwise elevations in membrane capacitance occurred and the cell capacitance increased to 106.7 +/- 1.6% within 10 min. Exocytosis was also stimulated by GTP[gamma-S] when a Ca2+-free pipette solution supplemented with 1 to 10 mM ethylenebis(oxonitrilo) tetraacetate (EGTA) was used. Measurement of the DC current component in parallel with AC current analysis was used to isolate components of the Ca2+-dependent Cl- and monovalent cation conductances from the whole-cell conductance. These experiments demonstrate that in GTP[gamma-S]-stimulated pancreatic acinar cells: (1) activation of Cl- currents precedes that of cation currents, and (2) fusion of the zymogen granule membrane with the plasma membrane does not lead to incorporation of active Cl- or nonselective cation channels (>/= 10 pS).

Spatial domains of Ca2+ signaling in secretory epithelial cells

Secretory epithelial cells are found in exocrine organs such as the pancreas and are also found in the lining of the lungs and gut. One important regulator of cell function in epithelial cells is the concentration of cytosolic Ca2+. The study of Ca2+ signaling in these cells has a long history and recent work has now identified, at the molecular level, key components in the Ca2+ signaling cascade. Furthermore, advances in fluorescent imaging techniques has enabled a detailed insight into the subcellular distribution of the agonist-evoked [Ca2+]i signal. A number of spatially different [Ca2+]i responses have been identified. Firstly, global [Ca2+]i signals are observed in response to high agonist concentrations. Secondly, at lower agonist concentrations trains of local [Ca2+]i spikes, restricted to the secretory pole region of pancreatic acinar cells, have been identified. Finally, these local [Ca2+]i spikes have now been further devolved into microdomains of [Ca2+]i elevation. The [Ca2+]i signal within a single microdomain has been shown to be the crucial trigger in the regulation of the ion channels important in fluid secretion.

Selective activation of exocytosis by low concentrations of ACh in rat pancreatic acinar cells

1. We have monitored changes in membrane capacitance (delta C) and conductance (delta G) induced by muscarinic acetylcholine stimulation in single rat pancreatic acinar cells. 2. Acetylcholine (ACh, 500 nM) induced simultaneous increases of delta C and delta G. In contrast, a low concentration (50 nM) of ACh exclusively induced delta C increases without delta G. These responses were abolished by the internal perfusion of heparin. This indicates that inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-mediated internal Ca2+ mobilization either simultaneously activates exocytosis and ion channels or exclusively initiates exocytosis. In comparison, a low concentration of A23187 selectively activated ion channels but a high concentration activated exocytosis and ion channels simultaneously. 3. These selective response patterns of delta C and delta G depend on the choice of agonist and the internal EGTA concentration. From this, we postulated two explanations for the selective action of muscarinic ACh stimulation on exocytosis. First, an area of high [Ca2+]i, spatially close to secretory granules, activates exocytosis. Second, an as yet unknown signalling factor sensitizes the Ca2+ affinity of the exocytotic apparatus.

Calcium transport pathways in the nucleus

Due to the availability of new biophysical and biochemical techniques, there has recently been considerable progress in our understanding of Ca2+ transport inside, as well as into and out of, the nucleus. A number of Ca2+ transport pathways have been localized specifically in the outer or inner nuclear membrane and the Ca2+ permeability through the nuclear pore complex has been assessed. The nuclear envelope has characteristics similar to those of a leaky epithelium. The leak is through the nuclear pore complex. The outer nuclear membrane contains the Ca2+ ATPase whereas the functionally important inositol trisphosphate (IP3)-activated Ca2+ release channels are specifically localized in the inner nuclear membrane.

Inositol trisphosphate and cyclic ADP-ribose-mediated release of Ca2+ from single isolated pancreatic zymogen granules

In pancreatic acinar cells low (physiological) agonist concentrations evoke cytosolic Ca2+ spikes specifically in the apical secretory pole that contains a high density of secretory (zymogen) granules (ZGs). Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) is believed to release Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum, but we have now tested whether the Ca(2+)-releasing messengers IP3 and cyclic ADP-ribose (cADPr) can liberate Ca2+ from AGs. In experiments on single isolated ZGs, we show using confocal microscopy that IP3 and cADPr evoke a marked decrease in the free intragranular Ca2+ concentration. Using a novel high resolution method, we have measured changes in the Ca2+ concentration in the vicinity of an isolated AG and show that IP3 and cADPr cause rapid Ca2+ release from the granule, explaining the agonist-evoked cytosolic Ca2+ rise in the secretory pole.

Is an elevated concentration of acinar cytosolic free ionised calcium the trigger for acute pancreatitis?

The pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis is poorly understood, despite well-recognised precipitating factors. Current evidence suggests that the earliest abnormalities of acute pancreatitis arise within acinar cells, but the key intracellular trigger has yet to be identified. Within the pancreas, physiological concentrations of secretagogues bind to G-protein-linked cell-surface receptors on acinar cells, evoking short, oscillatory spikes of acinar cytosolic-free ionised calcium ([Ca2+]i), an ubiquitous intracellular messenger. Specific effects within acinar cells include initiation of enzyme release through the phosphorylation cascades of stimulus-secretion coupling. Low resting levels of [Ca2+]i are restored by Ca(2+)-ATPase, which pumps calcium into the endoplasmic reticulum and out of the cell. If high concentrations of [Ca2+]i persist, toxicity results, intracellular signalling is disrupted, and cell damage occurs. Sustained elevations in acinar [Ca2+]i result from exposure to high concentrations of secretagogues, high doses of which also induce acute pancreatitis. Similarly, sustained elevations of [Ca2+]i may result from ductal hypertension, alcohol, hypoxia, hypercalcaemia, hyperlipidaemia, viral infection, and various drugs--all factors known to precipitate acute pancreatitis. We suggest that these factors precipitate acute pancreatitis by causing either excessive release of acinar [Ca2+]i, or damage to the integrity of mechanisms that restore low resting levels of [Ca2+]i, and that the consequent calcium toxicity is the key trigger in the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis.

Cholecystokinin-stimulated enzyme secretion from dispersed rabbit pancreatic acinar cells: phosphorylation-dependent changes in potency and efficacy

In order to establish a regulatory role for phosphoproteins in receptor-stimulated enzyme secretion, dispersed rabbit pancreatic acinar cells were stimulated with the COOH-terminal octapeptide of cholecystokinin (CCK8) in the absence and presence of staurosporine and/or 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA) or forskolin. The dose/response curve for the stimulatory effect of CCK8 on amylase secretion was biphasic, with a mean half-maximal concentration (EC50) of 21 pM. Staurosporine (1 microM) did not affect secretion elicited by CCK8 concentrations below 0.1 nM, but reduced the response to CCK8 concentrations above 0.1 nM. As a result, the mean EC50 for CCK8 decreased to 8 pM and its efficacy to 70%. The phorbol ester TPA (0.1 microM) attenuated secretion evoked by CCK8 concentrations below 0.1 nM and potentiated the response to CCK8 concentrations above 0.1 nM. As a result, the mean EC50 for CCK8 increased to 0.14 nM and its efficacy to 300%. Staurosporine abolished both the inhibitory and the potentiating effect of TPA, thereby turning the inhibitory effect into a strong potentiating effect. As a result, the mean EC50 for CCK8 decreased to 3 pM, whereas its efficacy increased to 190%. Forskolin (30 microM) potentiated the response to both the lower and the higher CCK8 concentrations. As a result, the mean EC50 for CCK8 increased to 28 pM and its efficacy to 300%. Staurosporine enhanced the potentiating effect of forskolin at CCK8 concentrations below 0.1 nM, but abolished potentiation at CCK8 concentrations above 0.1 nM. As a result, the mean EC50 for CCK8 decreased to 1.4 pM, whereas its efficacy increased to 260%. The data presented demonstrate that the apparent sensitivity of dispersed pancreatic acinar cells to stimulation of the process of enzyme secretion by CCK8 decreases when kinases are activated and increases when kinases are inactivated. Moreover, they show that the efficacy of CCK8 increases by the action of kinases, both sensitive and insensitive to staurosporine.

Inositol trisphosphate and cyclic ADP ribose as long range messengers generating local subcellular calcium signals

The process of messenger-mediated release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores, which is of great importance in virtually all cell types including neurons, can best be studied in cells lacking voltage-gated Ca2+ channels in the plasma membrane. In pancreatic acinar cells agonist-evoked repetitive cytosolic Ca2+ spikes are due to release of Ca2+ via inositoltrisphosphate (IP3) and ryanodine receptors and reuptake into the stores via thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ pumps. At low acetylcholine (ACh) or cholecystokinin concentrations the cytosolic Ca2+ spikes are mostly confined to the secretory granule area of the polarized pancreatic acinar cells. Similar results can be obtained by intracellular infusion of IP3 (or one of its non-metabolizable analogues) or cyclic ADP ribose. This suggests that high affinity IP3 and ryanodine receptors are concentrated in the secretory granule area. We have generated an 'artificial synapse' on isolated acinar cells by having a cell-attached patch pipette filled with ACh on the basal membrane. Initially, ACh is prevented from making contact with the receptors by the negative potential applied to the pipette. When the pipette polarity is switched to positive ACh can bind to its receptors. Using digital Ca2+ imaging it could be seen that the first cytosolic rise often occurred in the secretory granule area, a considerable distance away from the site of the agonist-receptor interaction. This shows the long-range action of the messenger(s) IP3 and or cyclic ADP ribose generated by the ACh-receptor interaction. The local Ca2+ spikes in the secretory granule area are sufficient for exocytotic secretory responses as seen in capacitance measurements.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)