Ca2+ influx following receptor activation

Dysregulated calcium homeostasis and oxidative stress in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cells

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a hematopoietic stem cell disorder caused by the oncogenic activity of the Bcr-Abl protein, a deregulated tyrosine kinase. Calcium may act directly on cellular enzymes and in conjunction with other cellular metabolites, such as cyclic nucleotides, to regulate cell functions. Alteration in the ionized calcium concentration in the cytosol has been implicated in the initiation of secretion, contraction, and cell proliferation as well as the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) has been correlates with normal cell proliferation through activation of growth-related signaling pathways. In this study we evaluated in peripheral blood leukocytes from CML patients the role of the balance between intracellular calcium and oxidative stress in CML disease in order to identify possible therapeutic targets in patients affected by this pathology. Our results demonstrated that peripheral blood mononuclear cells derived from CML patients displayed decreased intracellular calcium [Ca(2+)](i) fluxes both after InsP(3) as well as ATP and ionomycin (IONO) administration. CML cells showed lower levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and significantly higher malondialdehyde levels (MDA) than peripheral blood mononuclear cells derived from control patients. Finally we showed that resveratrol is able to down-regulate InsP3 and ATP effects on intracellular calcium [Ca(2+)](i) fluxes as well as the effects of ATP and IONO on oxidative stress in CML cells.

Histamine-induced Ca2+ entry in human astrocytoma U373 MG cells: evidence for involvement of store-operated channels

Glial and glia-derived cells express a variety of receptors for neurotransmitters and hormones, the majority of which evoke both Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores and Ca(2+) entry across the plasma membrane. We investigated the links between histamine H(1) receptor activation, Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores and Ca(2+) influx in human astrocytoma U373 MG cells. Histamine, through a H(1) receptor-mediated effect, evoked an increase in cytoplasmic free calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) that occurred in two phases: an initial, transient, increase owing to Ca(2+) mobilization from intracellular pools, and a second, sustained increase dependent on both Ca(2+) influx and continuous receptor occupancy. The characteristics of histamine-induced increases in [Ca(2+)](i) were similar to the capacitative entry evoked by emptying of the Ca(2+) stores with thapsigargine, and different from that observed when Ca(2+) influx was activated with OAG (1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol), a diacylglycerol (DAG) analog. OAG application or increased endogenous DAG, resulting from DAG kinase inhibition, reduced the histamine-induced response. Furthermore, activation of the DAG target, protein kinase C (PKC), by TPA (12-O-tetradecanoyl 4beta-phorbol 13alpha-acetate) resulted in inhibition of the histamine-induced Ca(2+) response, an action prevented by PKC inhibitors. By using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction analysis, mRNAs for transient receptor potential channels (TRPCs) 1, 4, and 6 as well as for STIM1 (stromal-interacting molecule) and Orai1 were found to be expressed in the U373 MG cells, and confocal microscopy using specific antibodies revealed the presence of the corresponding proteins. Therefore, TRPCs may be candidate proteins forming store-operated channels in the U373 MG cell line. Further, our results confirm the involvement of PKC in the regulation of H(1) receptor-induced responses and point out to the existence of a feedback mechanism acting via PKC to limit the increase in [Ca(2+)](i).

Mechanism and functional significance of TRPC channel multimerization

Ca(2+) signaling regulates many important physiological events within a diverse set of living organisms. In particular, sustained Ca(2+) signals play an important role in controlling cell proliferation, cell differentiation and the activation of immune cells. Two key elements for the generation of sustained Ca(2+) signals are store-operated and receptor-operated Ca(2+) channels that are activated downstream of phospholipase C (PLC) stimulation, in response to G-protein-coupled receptor or growth factor receptor stimulation. One goal of this review is to help clarify the role of canonical transient receptor potential (TRPC) proteins in the formation of native store-operated and native receptor-operated channels. Toward that end, data from studies of endogenous TRPC proteins will be reviewed in detail to highlight the strong case for the involvement of certain TRPC proteins in the formation of one subtype of store-operated channel, which exhibits a low Ca(2+)-selectivity, in contrast to the high Ca(2+)-selectivity exhibited by the CRAC subtype of store-operated channel. A second goal of this review is to highlight the growing body of evidence indicating that native store-operated and native receptor-operated channels are formed by the heteromultimerization of TRPC subunits. Furthermore, evidence will be provided to argue that some TRPC proteins are able to form multiple channel types.

Ca2+ release from host intracellular stores and related signal transduction during Campylobacter jejuni 81-176 internalization into human intestinal cells

Campylobacter jejuni is the leading bacterial cause of human diarrhoeal disease in many parts of the world, including the USA. The ability of C. jejuni to invade the host intestinal epithelium is an important determinant of virulence. A common theme among pathogenic invasive micro-organisms is their ability to usurp the eukaryotic cell-signalling systems both to allow for invasion and to trigger disease pathogenesis. Ca(2+) is very important in a great variety of eukaryotic cell-signalling processes (e.g. calmodulin-activated enzymes, nuclear transcriptional upregulation, and cytoskeletal rearrangements). This study analyses the effects of Ca(2+) availability on invasion of human INT407 intestinal epithelial cells by C. jejuni strain 81-176. The ability of C. jejuni to invade INT407 cells was not blocked by chelation of any remaining extracellular Ca(2+) from host cells incubated in Ca(2+)-free, serum-free media. In contrast, C. jejuni invasion was markedly reduced either by chelating host intracellular Ca(2+) with 1,2-bis-(2-)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid acetoxymethyl ester (BAPTA, AM) or by blocking the release of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores with dantrolene or U73122. Moreover, Bay K8644, a plasma-membrane Ca(2+)-channel agonist, was observed to stimulate C. jejuni invasion, presumably by increasing host intracellular free Ca(2+) levels. Measurement of host-cell cytosolic Ca(2+) via spectrofluorimetry and fluorescence microscopy revealed an increase in Ca(2+) from 10 min post-infection. Monolayer pretreatment with either a calmodulin antagonist or a specific inhibitor of protein kinase C was found to cause a marked reduction in C. jejuni invasion, suggesting roles for these Ca(2+)-activated modulators in signal-transduction events involved in C. jejuni invasion. These results demonstrate that C. jejuni induces the mobilization of Ca(2+) from host intracellular stores, which is an essential step in the invasion of intestinal cells by this pathogen.

Expression of transient receptor potential C6 and related transient receptor potential family members in human airway smooth muscle and lung tissue

Elevation of the intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration regulates many functional responses in airway smooth muscle, including contraction, proliferation, adhesion, and cell survival. This increase in calcium can be achieved by a release from internal stores (sarcoplasmic reticulum) and/or entry across the cell membrane from the extracellular environment. The molecular identity of this calcium influx pathway in human airway smooth muscle (HASM) remains unclear. Functional studies using Fluo 4-loaded HASM suggest the presence of a histamine H(1) receptor-activated Ca(2+) entry pathway with characteristics similar to those seen with transient receptor potential (TRP) family homologs. Using a range of molecular and cell biological approaches we defined the expression pattern of transient receptor potential classics (TRPC) homologs in airway cells and tissue. Here we show that HASM and human bronchial epithelial cells both express TRPC1, -4, and -6, with HASM also expressing TRPC3 at the mRNA level. Identification of TRPC6 protein by western blot and confocal microscopy indicated that the protein is localized in specific cell types, suggesting that it plays an important role in regulating key functions in airway cells. These data demonstrate the expression of a range of TRPC homologs in the airway and the presence of a functional Ca(2+) entry pathway with characteristics typical of TRPC family members. TRPC homologs may provide an important novel target for the treatment of airway disease.

The blockade of formyl peptide-induced respiratory burst by 2',5'-dihydroxy-2-furfurylchalcone involves phospholipase D signaling in neutrophils

The inhibition of formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP)-induced respiratory burst by 2',5'-dihydroxy-2-furfurylchalcone (DHFC) was investigated in rat neutrophils, and the underlying mechanism of this inhibition was assessed. DHFC concentration-dependently inhibited superoxide anion (O(2)) generation (IC(50) 4.2+/-1.2 microM), reaching a plateau within 5-10 min preincubation time, and inhibited oxygen consumption (IC(50) 6.9+/-1.9 microM) in rat neutrophils. In cell-free systems, DHFC failed to scavenge the generated during dihydroxyfumaric acid auto-oxidation. DHFC was less effective in the inhibition of both phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate-activated neutrophil particulate NADPH oxidase activity and arachidonic acid-induced NADPH oxidase activation. In rat neutrophils, DHFC did not exert a cAMP-elevating effect, nor did it affect fMLP-induced [Ca(2+)](i) change to a considerable extent. DHFC slightly reduced fMLP-induced phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3 K) activation but showed moderate inhibition of Akt phosphorylation. fMLP-induced cellular phospholipase D (PLD) activation was markedly inhibited by DHFC (IC(50) 8.9+/-2.0 microM). In addition, DHFC effectively attenuated the membrane association of protein kinase C (PKC)-alpha, ADP-ribosylation factor (ARF) and Rho A in fMLP-stimulated cells. However, DHFC had no effect on the membrane association of ARF and Rho A caused by guanosine 5'-[gamma-thio]triphosphate (GTPgammaS) in cell lysate. fMLP-stimulated protein tyrosine phosphorylation was weakly attenuated by DHFC. DHFC was more efficient in the inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation than p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation. Collectively, these results indicate that the suppression of fMLP-induced respiratory burst by DHFC in rat neutrophils is probably mainly attributable to the inhibition of PLD activation, via the blockade of PKC-alpha, ARF and Rho A membrane association.

LAAE-14, a new in vitro inhibitor of intracellular calcium mobilization, modulates acute and chronic inflammation

A new lipidic acid-amido ether derivative (LAAE-14) able to reduce dose-dependently the calcium increases mediated either by calcium ionophore ionomycin, by the endoplasmic reticular Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor thapsigargin, or by the chemotactic tripeptide N-formyl-L-methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine (fMLP), in human neutrophils as well as in murine peritoneal macrophages, but not ATP, has been evaluated as a potential anti-inflammatory drug. This compound attenuated leukocyte activation by means of its inhibitory effect on the respiratory burst elicited in both types of cells by 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol 13-acetate, by inhibition of the degranulation process induced by cytochalasin B+fMLP or cytochalasin B+platelet activating factor, as well as by reduction of leukotriene B(4) synthesis induced by the calcium ionophore A23187. In addition, in zymosan-stimulated mouse peritoneal macrophages LAAE-14 caused a potent inhibition of nitrite and prostaglandin E(2) production. This compound exerted acute and chronic anti-inflammatory effects by oral route, that may be related with several mechanisms such as attenuation of leukocyte activation, inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclo-oxygenase-2 and cytosolic phospholipase A(2) expression as well as reduction in tumour necrosis factor-alpha production. Its anti-inflammatory profile is clearly correlated with its behavior as inhibitor of intracellular calcium mobilization. The profile and potency of this compound may have relevance for the inhibition of the inflammatory response at different levels and may represent a new approach to the development of new anti-inflammatory drugs.

Investigation of the cellular mechanism of inhibition of formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine-induced superoxide anion generation in rat neutrophils by 2-benzyloxybenzaldehyde

The inhibition of formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP)-induced superoxide anion (O2(.-)) generation by 2-benzyloxybenzaldehyde (CCY1a) was investigated in rat neutrophils, and the underlying mechanism of this inhibition was assessed. CCY1a concentration-dependently inhibited O2(.-) generation (IC(50)=18.5+/-4.3 microM). In cell-free systems, CCY1a failed to alter O2(.-) generation during dihydroxyfumaric acid autoxidation, in phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-activated neutrophil particulate NADPH oxidase preparations, or during arachidonic acid-induced NADPH oxidase activation. CCY1a increased cellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels in a time- and concentration-dependent manner, and this cAMP-elevating effect was inhibited by the adenylyl cyclase inhibitor 9-(tetrahydro-2'-furyl)adenine (SQ22536), adenosine deaminase (ADA), and the adenosine receptor antagonist 8-(p-sulfophenyl)theophylline. In neutrophils, inhibition of O2(.-) generation by CCY1a was partially reversed by the protein kinase A inhibitor (9R,10S,12S)-2,3,9,10,11,12-hexahydro-10-hydroxy-9-methyl-1-oxo-9,12-epoxy-1H-diindolo[1,2,3-fg:3',2',1'-kl]pyrrolo[3,4-l][1,6]benzodiazocine-10-carboxylic acid, hexyl ester (KT5720). CCY1a did not affect fMLP-induced p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation, but concentration-dependently attenuated the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and Akt (IC(50) about 31.3 and 19.4 microM, respectively). The plateau phase, but not the initial spike, of fMLP-induced [Ca2+](i) changes was inhibited by CCY1a in a concentration-dependent manner. CCY1a inhibition of Ca2+ entry, ERK, and Akt phosphorylation was not prevented by SQ22536 or ADA. fMLP-induced phospholipase D (PLD) activation was inhibited by CCY1a (IC(50)=13.9+/-2.0 microM). ADA and KT5720 did not prevent the inhibition of PLD activation by CCY1a. Collectively, these results indicate that the inhibition by CCY1a of fMLP-induced O2(.-) generation in rat neutrophils can probably be attributed to the increase in cAMP levels, and to the blockade of Ca2+ entry, suppression of Akt, and PLD activation via cAMP-independent mechanisms.

Direct effect of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist on the growth of canine mammary tumour cells

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist exert "in vivo" an inhibitory action on the growth of hormone-dependent canine mammary tumours (Lombardi et al. [1999] J. Vet. Pharmacol Ther. 22(1):56-61). The present experiments have been performed "in vitro" in order to investigate the mechanisms involved in this direct antiproliferative action of GnRH agonists. In particular, the aim was to study whether these compounds might exert their antiproliferative effect by interfering with the stimulatory action of epidermal growth factor (EGF). To this purpose, the effects of GnRH agonist, Goserelin (GnRH-A), on the mitogenic action of EGF, on EGF-activated intracellular signaling mechanisms (intracellular calcium and nitric oxide production) as well as on ATP induced cell proliferation and signalling, and on the binding of EGF receptors have been evaluated in primary culture of canine mammary tumour cells. The results of these "in vitro" studies show that GnRH-A counteracts the mitogenic action of EGF and ATP, decreases the EGF/ATP-induced calcium signalling and reduces EGF binding, probably by means of NO-induced [Ca2+]i downregulation. These data suggest that GnRH agonists may inhibit the proliferation of the tumour cells by interfering with the stimulatory action of EGF.

Inhibition of superoxide anion generation by YC-1 in rat neutrophils through cyclic GMP-dependent and -independent mechanisms

3-(5'-Hydroxymethyl-2'-furyl)-1-benzyl indazole (YC-1), a soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) activator, inhibited formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP)-induced superoxide anion (O(2)*(-)) generation and O(2) consumption in rat neutrophils (IC(50) values of 12.7+/-3.1 and 17.7+/-6.9 microM, respectively). Inhibition of O(2)*(-) generation by YC-1 was partially reversed by the cyclic GMP-lowering agent 6-anilinoquinoline-5,8-quinone (LY83583) and by the Rp isomer of 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)guanosine-3',5'-monophosphorothioate (Rp-8-pCPT-cGMPS), a cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase inhibitor. In cell-free systems, YC-1 failed to alter O(2)*(-) generation during dihydroxyfumaric acid autoxidation, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-activated neutrophil particulate NADPH oxidase preparation, and arachidonic acid-induced NADPH oxidase activation. YC-1 increased cellular cyclic GMP levels through the activation of sGC and the inhibition of cyclic GMP-hydrolyzing phosphodiesterase activity. The plateau phase, but not the initial spike, of fMLP-induced [Ca(2+)](i) changes was inhibited by YC-1 (IC(50) about 15 microM). fMLP- but not PMA-induced phospholipase D activation was inhibited by YC-1 (IC(50) about 28 microM). Membrane-associated ADP-ribosylation factor and Rho A in cell activation was also reduced by YC-1 at a similar concentration range. Neither cytosolic protein kinase C (PKC) activity nor PKC membrane translocation was altered by YC-1. YC-1 did not affect either fMLP-induced phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activation or p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation, but slightly attenuated the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase. Collectively, these results indicate that the inhibition of the fMLP-induced respiratory burst by YC-1 is mediated by cyclic GMP-dependent and -independent signaling mechanisms.

Receptor-operated Ca2+ influx channels in leukocytes: a therapeutic target?

Receptor-mediated activation of leukocytes by inflammatory stimuli elicits Ca2+ ion influx as a common and important activation mechanism that has been well established in the literature for over a decade. Inhibiting such receptor-operated Ca2+ influx channels is a potentially attractive strategy for developing anti-inflammatory drugs to attenuate leukocyte activation. Until very recently, the molecular identity of these channels has been unknown, which has hampered drug development in this area. However, the recent explosion of molecular information about one particular family of non-voltage-activated Ca2+ channels, the transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, together with emerging knowledge of their distribution, function and regulation, suggests that they represent a key subgroup of these channels and are therefore potentially attractive drug targets.

Intracellular signal transduction during gastrin-induced histamine secretion in rat gastric ECL cells

Activation of G(q) protein-coupled receptors usually causes a biphasic increase in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) that is crucial for secretion in nonexcitable cells. In gastric enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cells, stimulation with gastrin leads to a prompt biphasic calcium response followed by histamine secretion. This study investigates the underlying signaling events in this neuroendocrine cell type. In ECL cells, RT-PCR suggested the presence of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP(3)R) subtypes 1-3. The IP(3)R antagonist 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate abolished both gastrin-induced elevation of [Ca(2+)](i) and histamine release. Thapsigargin increased [Ca(2+)](i), however, without inducing histamine secretion. In thapsigargin-pretreated cells, gastrin increased [Ca(2+)](i) through calcium influx across the plasma membrane. Both nimodipine and SKF-96365 inhibited gastrin-induced histamine release. The protein kinase C (PKC) activator phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate induced histamine secretion, an effect that was prevented by nimodipine. In summary, gastrin-stimulated histamine release depends on IP(3)R activation and plasmalemmal calcium entry. Gastrin-induced calcium influx was mediated by dihydropyridine-sensitive calcium channels that appear to be L-type channels activated through a pathway involving activation of PKC.

Cellular mechanisms of inhibition of superoxide anion generation in rat neutrophils by the synthetic isoquinoline DMDI

This study was undertaken to assess the cellular localization of the inhibitory effect of a chemically synthetic isoquinoline compound 1-(3',4'-dimethoxybenzyl)-6,7-dichloroisoquinoline (DMDI) on the formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP)-induced respiratory burst in rat neutrophils. The DMDI concentration dependently inhibited the superoxide anion (O(2)(*-)) generation and O(2) consumption (IC(50) 12.2+/-4.9 and 15.2+/-8.4 microM, respectively) of neutrophils. DMDI did not scavenge the O(2)(*-) generated during the autoxidation of dihydroxyfumaric acid in a cell-free system. DMDI did not elevate cellular cyclic AMP levels. Inhibition of O(2)(*-) generation by DMDI in neutrophils was not reversed by a cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase inhibitor, (8R,9S,11S)-(-)-9-hydroxy-9-hexoxycarbonyl-8-methyl-2,3,9,10-tetrahydro-8,11-epoxy-1H,8H,11H-2,7b,11a-triazadibenzo[a,g]cycloocta[cde]trinden-1-one (KT5720). The DMDI concentration dependently inhibited the late plateau phase but not the initial spike of fMLP-induced [Ca(2+)](i) changes in the presence of extracellular Ca(2+). However, DMDI had no effect on the fMLP-induced [Ca(2+)](i) changes in the absence of extracellular Ca(2+). In addition, DMDI did not affect the fMLP-stimulated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-kinase) activation. DMDI produced a concentration-dependent reduction in the formation of phosphatidic acid and phosphatidylethanol in the presence of ethanol from fMLP-stimulated neutrophils (IC(50) 13.3+/-4.0 and 9.4+/-4.3 microM, respectively). On the basis of the immunoblot analysis of the phosphorylation of the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase, DMDI attenuated the fMLP-stimulated MAP kinase phosphorylation in a similar concentration range. Collectively, these results indicate that the inhibition of the respiratory burst by DMDI in rat neutrophils is mediated through the blockade of phospholipase D and MAP kinase signaling pathways.

Broad-spectrum cation channel inhibition by LOE 908 MS reduces infarct volume in vivo and postmortem in focal cerebral ischemia in the rat

Cation channels conduct calcium, sodium and potassium, cations that are likely deleterious in the evolution of focal ischemic injury. We studied the effects of a novel, broad-spectrum inhibitor of several cation channels, LOE 908 MS, on acute ischemic lesion development with diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI) and on cerebral perfusion with perfusion imaging (PI) in vivo and on cerebral infarct size using 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining postmortem. A total of 18 male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent 90 min of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and were randomly and blindly assigned to either LOE 908 MS or vehicle starting 30 min after inducing focal ischemia and continuing for 4 h. Whole-brain DWI and multislice PI were done before initiation of treatment and repeated frequently for the next 3.5 h. DWI-derived lesion volume at 4 h showed a significant difference in favor of the drug treated group (P=0.03), whereas PI-derived perfusion deficit volumes did not significantly differ between the groups. The postmortem infarct volume at 24 h was significantly attenuated in the treated group in comparison to controls (P=0.0001) and neurological score was significantly better in the treated group (P<0.02). Blocking several distinct cation channels with LOE 908 MS significantly reduced infarct size and improved neurological outcome without observable adverse effects in this focal ischemia model.

Histamine-induced calcium entry in rat cerebellar astrocytes: evidence for capacitative and non-capacitative mechanisms

We have investigated the effects of histamine on the intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) of cultured rat cerebellar astrocytes using fura-2-based Ca2+ imaging microscopy. Most of the cells responded to the application of histamine with an increase in [Ca2+]i which was antagonized by the H1 receptor blocker mepyramine. When histamine was applied for several minutes, the majority of the cells displayed a biphasic Ca2+ response consisting of an initial transient peak and a sustained component. In contrast to the initial transient [Ca2+]i response, the sustained, receptor-activated increase in [Ca2+]i was rapidly abolished by chelation of extracellular Ca2+ or addition of Ni2+, Mn2+, Co2+ and Zn2+, but was unaffected by nifedipine, an antagonist of L-type voltage-activated Ca2+ channels. These data indicate that the sustained increase in [Ca2+]i was dependent on Ca2+ influx. When intracellular Ca2+ stores were emptied by prolonged application of histamine in Ca2+-free conditions, Ca2+ re-addition after removal of the agonist did not lead to an 'overshoot' of [Ca2+]i indicative of store-operated Ca2+ influx. However, Ca2+ stores were refilled despite the absence of any substantial change in the fura-2 signal. Depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores using cyclopiazonic acid in Ca2+-free saline and subsequent re-addition of Ca2+ to the saline resulted in an increase in [Ca2+]i that was significantly enhanced in the presence of histamine. The results suggest that besides capacitative mechanisms, a non-capacitative, voltage-independent pathway is involved in histamine-induced Ca2+ entry into cultured rat cerebellar astrocytes.

Calcium channel antagonist effect on in vitro meningioma signal transduction pathways after growth factor stimulation

OBJECTIVE

We have previously demonstrated that calcium channel antagonists inhibit the growth of human meningiomas in culture after stimulation with growth factors. This study examined the effects of these drugs on signaling transduction pathways in an attempt to elucidate potential mechanisms by which this growth inhibition is mediated.

METHODS

Primary cell cultures from patients with intracranial meningiomas were established. Cell growth studies were performed with inhibitors and stimulators of tyrosine kinase signal transduction. Intracellular calcium changes and inositol phosphate production were measured after growth factor exposure, with or without pretreatment by calcium channel antagonists.

RESULTS

The growth of meningiomas in culture can be inhibited by tyrosine kinase receptor inhibitors. Inhibitors and stimulators of phospholipase C can stimulate or inhibit the growth of in vitro meningiomas, respectively. Calcium channel antagonists inhibit intracellular calcium changes induced by serum and epidermal growth factor. Inositol phosphate production is increased after growth factor stimulation, and calcium channel antagonists potentiate this effect.

CONCLUSION

Calcium channel antagonists interfere with intracellular signaling pathways of cultured meningioma cells. This inhibition is unrelated to voltage-sensitive calcium channels. The findings of this project may aid in the understanding of the signal transduction mechanisms involved in growth factor-mediated meningioma proliferation and may lead to clinically relevant strategies for growth inhibition.

Regulation of intracellular calcium by extracellular nucleotides in pig tracheal submucosal gland cells

The mechanisms by which extracellular nucleotides (ATP and UTP) regulate intracellular Ca2+ in cultured pig tracheal gland cells were studied. The calcium response induced by ATP or UTP was composed of a peak response and a steady plateau. In the absence of extracellular Ca2+, the peak response of the cells to both ATP and UTP was smaller, and no subsequent plateau was observed. After treatment of the cells with pertussis toxin, the peak response to UTP was significantly smaller and no plateau was seen even in the presence of extracellular Ca2+, but pertussis toxin did not change the effect of ATP. Pretreatment with U107, a phospholipase C inhibitor, almost abolished the calcium response to both ATP and UTP. Immunocytochemistry showed that in these cells, the IP3 receptor was localized in the cytoplasm (including the endoplasmic reticulum) of the cells. Our results indicate that both release of calcium from the intracellular store and Ca2+ influx across the cell membrane contribute to the mobilization of [Ca2+]i upon stimulation with nucleotides, that ATP and UTP regulate intracellular Ca2+ predominantly via the G protein-phospholipase C-IP3 pathway, and that ATP and UTP may act via distinct subtypes of P2Y receptors.

Current perspectives in the pharmacological studies of store-operated Ca2+ entry blockers

The store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) pathway has aroused much interest recently not only because of its unusual nature as retrograde signaling, but also due to its wide occurrence and its possible role in physiological and pathophysiological situations. A number of synthetic or naturally occurring drugs recently used to block this Ca2+ entry pathway are briefly reviewed. Although important and interesting information has been obtained using these putative SOCE blockers described in this review, they indeed have sites of action other than the SOCE channels, and caution must be exercised in using them as putative tools to study SOCE. For instance, the highly variable potency of some synthetic blockers (SK&F 96365 and LOE 908) to inhibit SOCE has provided indirect evidence for the heterogeneous nature of the SOCE channels, an observation consistent with the differential Mn2+ permeability through SOCE in various cell types. The use of SK&F 96365 at relatively high concentrations has unexpectedly revealed its potential as an opener of a novel cation entry pathway. The ability of LU52396 to discriminate the SOCE channel in its closed/open states may be useful in the analysis of the kinetics of SOCE channel activation/inactivation. The possible presence of both agonistic and antagonistic saponins derived from ginseng plants for the study of SOCE deserves more rigorous experimental investigations, which may lay new ground for the development of new types of Ca2+ antagonists (and/or agonists) from the natural resources.

Bradykinin modulates arginine vasopressin-induced calcium influx in vascular myocytes

We investigated direct, endothelium-independent effects of bradykinin on arginine vasopressin-induced calcium influx in vascular smooth muscle cells. We studied cultured rat vascular smooth muscle cells by using the whole-cell voltage-clamp and calcium fluorescence imaging methods. Exposing cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (A7r5 cell line) to arginine vasopressin (100 nM) produced a transient increase in [Ca2+]i, followed by a sustained increase in [Ca2+]i. This was readily reversible (n=28). At a holding potential of -40 to -60 mV, arginine vasopressin induced a sustained inward current correlated with a sustained increase in [Ca2+]i. Bradykinin (30 nM to 30 microM) had no effect on arginine vasopressin-induced [Ca2+]i transients. However, during the sustained phase of increased [Ca2+]i, bradykinin reversibly attenuated relative fluorescence and inward current in the presence of arginine vasopressin (n=14). This was concentration dependent and inhibited by [D-Phe7]-bradykinin (30 microM), a kinin receptor antagonist. Also, sustained arginine vasopressin-mediated increases in [Ca2+]i and inward current were attenuated by Ca2+-free or La3+-supplemented perfusate but not by nifedipine (n=5).

CONCLUSIONS

(1) Bradykinin can attenuate arginine vasopressin-induced and sustained Ca2+ influx and sustained inward current through a novel endothelium-independent process. (2) The direct effect of bradykinin on arginine vasopressin-induced increases in [Ca2+]i sustained Ca2+ influx in vascular smooth muscle cells is concentration dependent and kinin-receptor mediated. (3) Arginine vasopressin-induced sustained [Ca2+]i elevation correlates with the activation of a dihydropyridine-insensitive, Ca2+-conducting inward current.

Reversible Ca gradients between the subplasmalemma and cytosol differentially activate Ca-dependent Cl currents

Xenopus oocytes express several different Ca-activated Cl currents that have different waveforms and biophysical properties. We compared the stimulation of Ca-activated Cl currents measured by two-microelectrode voltage clamp with the Ca transients measured in the same cell by confocal microscopy and Ca-sensitive fluorophores. The purpose was to determine how the amplitude and/or spatio-temporal features of the Ca signal might explain how these different Cl currents were activated by Ca. Because Ca release from stores was voltage independent, whereas Ca influx depended upon the electrochemical driving force, we were able to separately assess the contribution of Ca from these two sources. We were surprised to find that Ca signals measured with a cytosolic Ca-sensitive dye, dextran-conjugated Ca-green-1, correlated poorly with Cl currents. This suggested that Cl channels located at the plasma membrane and the Ca-sensitive dye located in the bulk cytosol were sensing different [Ca]. This was true despite Ca measurement in a confocal slice very close to the plasma membrane. In contrast, a membrane-targeted Ca-sensitive dye (Ca-green-C18) reported a Ca signal that correlated much more closely with the Cl currents. We hypothesize that very local, transient, reversible Ca gradients develop between the subplasmalemmal space and the bulk cytosol. [Ca] is higher near the plasma membrane when Ca is provided by Ca influx, whereas the gradient is reversed when Ca is released from stores, because Ca efflux across the plasma membrane is faster than diffusion of Ca from the bulk cytosol to the subplasmalemmal space. Because dissipation of the gradients is accelerated by inhibition of Ca sequestration into the endoplasmic reticulum with thapsigargin, we conclude that [Ca] in the bulk cytosol declines slowly partly due to futile recycling of Ca through the endoplasmic reticulum.

Mechanisms involved in the metabotropic glutamate receptor-enhancement of NMDA-mediated motoneurone responses in frog spinal cord

1. The metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) agonist trans-(+/-)-1-amino-1,3-cyclopentanedicarboxylic acid (trans-ACPD) (10-100 microM) depolarized isolated frog spinal cord motoneurones, a process sensitive to kynurenate (1.0 mM) and tetrodotoxin (TTX) (0.783 microM). 2. In the presence of NMDA open channel blockers [Mg2+; (+)-5-methyl-10,11-dihydro-5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5,10-imine hydrogen maleate (MK801); 3,5-dimethyl-1-adamantanamine hydrochloride (memantine)] and TTX, trans-ACPD significantly potentiated NMDA-induced motoneurone depolarizations, but not alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-proprionate (AMPA)- or kainate-induced depolarizations. 3. NMDA potentiation was blocked by (RS)-alpha-methyl-4-carboxyphenylglycine (MCPG) (240 microM), but not by alpha-methyl-(2S,3S,4S)-alpha-(carboxycyclopropyl)-glycine (MCCG) (290 microM) or by alpha-methyl-(S)-2-amino-4-phosphonobutyrate (L-MAP4) (250 microM), and was mimicked by 3,5-dihydroxyphenylglycine (DHPG) (30 microM), but not by L(+)-2-amino-4-phosphonobutyrate (L-AP4) (100 microM). Therefore, trans-ACPD's facilitatory effects appear to involve group I mGluRs. 4. Potentiation was prevented by the G-protein decoupling agent pertussis toxin (3-6 ng ml(-1), 36 h preincubation). The protein kinase C inhibitors staurosporine (2.0 microM) and N-(2-aminoethyl)-5-isoquinolinesulphonamide HCI (H9) (77 microM) did not significantly reduce enhanced NMDA responses. Protein kinase C activation with phorbol-12-myristate 13-acetate (5.0 microM) had no effect. 5. Intracellular Ca2+ depletion with thapsigargin (0.1 microM) (which inhibits Ca2+/ATPase), 1,2-bis(O-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetracetic acid acetyl methyl ester (BAPTA-AM) (50 microM) (which buffers elevations of [Ca2+]i), and bathing spinal cords in nominally Ca2+-free medium all reduced trans-ACPD's effects. 6. The calmodulin antagonists N-(6-aminohexyl)-5-chloro-1-naphthalenesulphonamide (W7) (100 microM) and chlorpromazine (100 microM) diminished the potentiation. 7. In summary, group I mGluRs selectively facilitate NMDA-depolarization of frog motoneurones via a G-protein, a rise in [Ca2+]i from the presumed generation of phosphoinositides, binding of Ca2+ to calmodulin, and lessening of the Mg2+-produced channel block of the NMDA receptor.

Involvement of cyclic AMP generation in the inhibition of respiratory burst by 2-phenyl-4-quinolone (YT-1) in rat neutrophils

The inhibitory effect of 2-phenyl-4-quinolone (YT-1) on respiratory burst in rat neutrophils was investigated, and the underlying mechanism of action was assessed. YT-1 caused a concentration-dependent inhibition of the rate of O2.- release from rat neutrophils in response to formylmethionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP), but not to phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), with an IC50 value of 60.7+/-8.2 microM. A comparable effect was also demonstrated in the inhibition of O2 consumption. Unlike superoxide dismutase, YT-1 had no effect on O2.- generation in the xanthine-xanthine oxidase system and during dihydroxyfumaric acid autoxidation. The fMLP-induced inositol trisphosphate (IP3) formation was unaffected by YT-1. In addition, YT-1 did not affect the initial spike of [Ca2+]i, but it accelerated the rate of [Ca2+]i decline in cells in response to fMLP. YT-1 was found to have little effect on the activity of neutrophil cytosolic protein kinase C (PKC). YT-1 increased the cellular cyclic AMP level, while having no effect on the cyclic GMP level. In addition, YT-1 increased neutrophil cytosolic protein kinase A (PKA) activity, but had no direct effect on the enzyme activity of pure porcine heart PKA. When neutrophils were treated with (8R,9S,11S)-(-)-9-hydroxy-9-hexoxycarbonyl-8-methyl-2,3,9,10-tetra hydro-8,11-epoxy- 1H,8H,11H-2,7b,11a-triazadibenzo[a,g]cycloocta[cde]trinde n-1-one, (KT 5720), a PKA inhibitor, the inhibition of O2.- generation by YT-1, as well as by prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and dibutyryl cyclic AMP, was attenuated effectively. YT-1 did not activate the adenylate cyclase associated with neutrophil particulate fraction but inhibited the cytosolic phosphodiesterase (PDE) activity in a concentration-dependent manner. Neutrophils treated with YT-1 had a more pronounced increase in cellular cyclic AMP level by PGE1. Moreover, the ability of PGE1 to inhibit the respiratory burst in neutrophils was greatly enhanced by YT-1. These results suggest that the increase in cellular cyclic AMP levels by YT-1 through the inhibition of PDE (probably PDE4 isoenzyme) activity is involved in its inhibition of fMLP-induced respiratory burst in rat neutrophils.

The volatile anesthetic enflurane activates capacitative Ca2+ channels in rat glioma C6 cells

(1) The volatile anaesthetics halothane and enflurane released Ca2+ from thapsigargin sensitive stores in rat glioma C6 cells, but only enflurane induced a significant Ca2+ influx. (2) The reason for this can be explained by a different inhibitory effect of the anesthetics on the capacitative Ca2+ influx. (3) Halothane inhibited the capacitative Ca2+ influx with an IC50 of 1.9 vol.%, whereas enflurane only marginally affected the ion flux through the channel.

The signal transduction mechanism involved in kazinol B-stimulated superoxide anion generation in rat neutrophils

1. In this study, the underlying mechanism of stimulation of respiratory burst by kazinol B, a natural isoprenylated flavan, in rat neutrophils in vitro was investigated. 2. Kazinol B concentration-dependently stimulated the superoxide anion (O2*-) generation, with a lag but transient activation profile, in neutrophils but not in a cell-free system. The maximum response (13.2+/-1.4 nmol O2*- 10 min(-1) per 10(6) cells) was observed at 10 microM kazinol B. 3. Pretreatment of neutrophils with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) or formylmethionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) significantly enhanced the O2*- generation following the subsequent stimulation of cells with kazinol B. 4. Cells pretreated with EGTA or a protein kinase inhibitor staurosporine effectively attenuated the kazinol B-induced O2*- generation. However, a p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor SB203580 and a phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor wortmannin had no effect on the kazinol B-induced response. 5. Kazinol B significantly stimulated [Ca2+]i elevation in neutrophils, with a lag and slow rate of rise activation profile, and this response was attenuated by a phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor U73122. Kazinol B also stimulated the inositol bis- and trisphosphate (IP2 and IP3) formation with a 1 min lag time. 6. The membrane-associated PKC-alpha and PKC-theta but not PKC-iota were increased following the stimulation of neutrophils with kazinol B. It was more rapid and sensitive in the activation of PKC-theta than PKC-alpha by kazinol B. Kazinol B partially inhibited the [3H]phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate ([3H]PDB) binding to the neutrophil cytosolic PKC. 7. Neither the cellular mass of phosphatidic acid (PA) and phosphatidylethanol (PEt), in the presence of ethanol, nor the protein tyrosine phosphorylation were stimulated by kazinol B. In addition, the kazinol B-induced O2*- generation remained relatively unchanged in cells pretreated with ethanol or a tyrosine kinase inhibitor genistein. 8. Collectively, these results indicate that the stimulation of the respiratory burst by kazinol B is probably mediated by the synergism of PKC activation and [Ca2+]i elevation in rat neutrophils.

Magnolol induces cytosolic-free Ca2+ elevation in rat neutrophils primarily via inositol trisphosphate signalling pathway

In the present study, we describe the role of inositol trisphosphate in the signalling pathway that leads to the elevation of cytosolic-free Ca2+ in rat neutrophils stimulated with magnolol, a compound isolated from the cortex of Magnolia officinalis. Magnolol increased [Ca2+]i, by stimulating Ca2+ release from internal stores and Ca2+ influx across the plasma membrane, in a concentration-dependent manner. Ni2+ and [6-[[(17beta)-3-methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17-yl]amino]hexyl]-1H -pyrrole-2,5-dione (U73122), but not pertussis toxin, inhibited the magnolol-induced Ca2+ influx. Measurement of cellular levels of inositol trisphosphate showed a clear increase upon exposure to magnolol. U73122 but not ryanodine suppressed the Ca2+ release from internal stores caused by magnolol. Pretreatment of cells with formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLP) or cyclopiazonic acid greatly reduced the [Ca2+]i changes caused by the subsequent addition of magnolol. Collectively, these findings suggest that a pertussis toxin-insensitive inositol trisphosphate signalling pathway is involved in the magnolol-induced [Ca2+]i elevation in rat neutrophils.

Human Trop-2 is a tumor-associated calcium signal transducer

Trop-2/EGP-1/GA733-1 is a recently identified cell surface glycoprotein highly expressed by human carcinomas. The cytoplasmic tail of Trop-2 possesses potential serine and tyrosine phosphorylation sites and a phosphatidyl-inositol binding consensus sequence. Thus, we investigated whether Trop-2 might be a functional signaling molecule. Using the fluorescent probe Fura-2, we assayed the cytoplasmic calcium levels in human cancer cells stimulated with anti-Trop-2 or control antibodies. Three anti-Trop-2 MAbs, Rs7-7G11, MOv16 and 162-46.2 specifically induced a transient intracellular calcium level increment in up to 40% of the experiments performed. Polyclonal antisera recognizing recombinant Trop-2 molecules possessed a much lower stimulation efficiency. The average latency of antibody-induced Ca2+ rise for OvCa-432 cells was 64+/-26 sec. Internal Ca2+ concentrations reached peaks of 190+/-24 nM vs. basal levels of 61+/-4 nM and returned to baseline within 193+/-37 sec. Similar values were obtained in MCF-7 cells. For comparison, stimulation of P2-purinergic receptors on MCF-7 and OvCa-432 cells induced a Ca2+ rise in most cases, leading to average internal Ca2+ concentrations of 297+/-41 and 391+/-39 nM, respectively. Our findings show that Trop-2 transduces an intracellular calcium signal, are consistent with the hypothesis that it acts as a cell surface receptor and support a search for a physiological ligand.

Alterations of signal transduction pathways involved in 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-induced malignant transformation of human cells in culture

Effects of signal transduction pathways in TCDD-induced neoplastic transformation of human cells were assessed with respect to PLC-coupled signaling pathways, adenylyl cyclase-mediated responses and PKC isozyme expressions. A lower stimulation of the intracellular free calcium levels with exposure to extracellular ATP or histamine was observed in the transformed cells, as compared to the parental cells. While the steady-state level of IP3 was higher in the transformed cells, the magnitude of stimulation of IP3 generation by ATP or histamine was significantly lower in the transformed cells than the parental cells. These results indicate that a downregulation PLC-coupled signaling pathways may be involved in the TCDD-induced transformation of human cells. While the steady-state levels of cAMP accumulation were similar between the two cell lines, treatment of PGE2, a potent differentiation inducer, stimulated a higher accumulation of cAMP in the parental cells but isoproterenol, a typical beta-adrenergic agonist, did not induce a significant difference between the two cell lines. These results suggest that desensitization of cAMP-mediated response to extracellular signals including differentiation signals may be associated with a possible mechanism of the carcinogenesis. Elevated expression of PKC-alpha, -gamma, -zeta, -epsilon, -lambda, and -tau were observed in TCDD-transformed cells, indicating a possible association of altered expression of PKC isozymes with TCDD-induced transformation of human cells. The present study demonstrates that alterations of signal transduction pathways are involved in the TCDD-induced transformation of human cells and provides a valuable basis to investigate effects of signaling pathway as a possible mechanism of TCDD-induced carcinogenesis in human cells.

Human Trop-2 is a tumor-associated calcium signal transducer

Trop-2/EGP-1/GA733-1 is a recently identified cell surface glycoprotein highly expressed by human carcinomas. The cytoplasmic tail of Trop-2 possesses potential serine and tyrosine phosphorylation sites and a phosphatidyl-inositol binding consensus sequence. Thus, we investigated whether Trop-2 might be a functional signaling molecule. Using the fluorescent probe Fura-2, we assayed the cytoplasmic calcium levels in human cancer cells stimulated with anti-Trop-2 or control antibodies. Three anti-Trop-2 MAbs, Rs7-7G11, MOv16 and 162-46.2 specifically induced a transient intracellular calcium level increment in up to 40% of the experiments performed. Polyclonal antisera recognizing recombinant Trop-2 molecules possessed a much lower stimulation efficiency. The average latency of antibody-induced Ca2+ rise for OvCa-432 cells was 64+/-26 sec. Internal Ca2+ concentrations reached peaks of 190+/-24 nM vs. basal levels of 61+/-4 nM and returned to baseline within 193+/-37 sec. Similar values were obtained in MCF-7 cells. For comparison, stimulation of P2-purinergic receptors on MCF-7 and OvCa-432 cells induced a Ca2+ rise in most cases, leading to average internal Ca2+ concentrations of 297+/-41 and 391+/-39 nM, respectively. Our findings show that Trop-2 transduces an intracellular calcium signal, are consistent with the hypothesis that it acts as a cell surface receptor and support a search for a physiological ligand.

Effects of verapamil, sodium nitroprusside and calcium deprivation on the phenylephrine-induced contraction of smooth muscle strips from the reticular groove of adult cattle

The effects of verapamil, sodium nitroprusside and calcium deprivation on the smooth muscle strips from the floor of the reticular groove of adult cattle were studied. The mechanical activity of the muscle strip was recorded isometrically. Contraction was induced with phenylephrine (10(-6) mol/l) in Tyrode solution. Verapamil (10(-6) mol/l) produced a high inhibition of the response, phasic and tonic (P < 0.05). Sodium nitroprusside (10(-6) mol/l) reduced mainly the phasic contraction (P < 0.05). Deprivation of Ca2+ from extracellular medium produced a high inhibition of the tonic phase. This study indicates that the action of verapamil on the reticular groove smooth muscle may be partially related to blockade of calcium entry through voltage-dependent channels, opened during phenylephrine stimulation. However, the nitroprusside action could be attributed to effect on the extrusion of calcium.

Differential routes of Ca2+ influx in Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts in response to receptor stimulation

Ca2+ influx into cells in response to stimulation of various receptors was studied with Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts. The mechanisms involved were found to be so diverse that they were classified into four groups, Type I to IV. Type-I influx occurred, via pertussis toxin-susceptible G-proteins, immediately after internal Ca2+ mobilization by bradykinin, thrombin, endothelin, vasopressin or angiotensin II. Type-II influx induced by bombesin differed from Type I in its insusceptibility to pertussis toxin treatment. Ca2+ influx induced by prostaglandin E1, referred to as Type-III influx, was unique in that phospholipase C was apparently not activated without extracellular Ca2+, strongly suggesting that the Ca2+ influx preceded and was responsible for InsP3 generation and internal Ca2+ mobilization. More Ca2+ entered the cells more slowly via the Type-IV route opened by platelet-derived and other growth factors. These types of Ca2+ influx could be differentiated by their different susceptibilities to protein kinase C maximally activated by 1 h of exposure of cells to PMA, which inhibited phospholipase Cbeta coupled to receptors involved in Type-I and -II influx but did not inhibit growth-factor-receptor-coupled phospholipase Cgamma. Type-I and -II Ca2+ influxes, together with store-operated influx induced by thapsigargin, were not directly inhibited by exposure of cells to PMA, but Type-III and -IV influxes were completely inhibited. In addition, stimulation of receptors involved in Type-I and -IV Ca2+ influx, but not Type-II and -III influx, led to phospholipase A2 activation in the presence of extracellular Ca2+. Inhibition of Type-I and -IV Ca2+ influxes by their respective inhibitors, diltiazem and nifedipine, resulted in abolition of phospholipase A2 activation induced by the respective receptor agonists, in agreement with the notion that Ca2+ influx via these routes is responsible for receptor-mediated phospholipase A2 activation.

Dynamics of [Ca2+] in the endoplasmic reticulum and cytoplasm of intact HeLa cells. A comparative study

We have measured the [Ca2+] in the endoplasmic reticulum ([Ca2+]er) of intact HeLa cells at both 22 degrees C and 37 degrees C using endoplamsic reticulum-targeted, low Ca2+ affinity aequorin reconstituted with coelenterazine n. Aequorin consumption was much slower at 22 degrees C, and this allowed performing a much longer study of the dynamics of [Ca2+]er. The steady-state [Ca2+]er (500-600 microM) was not modified by the temperature, although both the rates of pumping and leak were decreased at 22 degrees C. The behavior of both [Ca2+]er and cytoplasmic [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]c) after the addition of increasing concentrations of agonists and/or Ca2+-ATPase inhibitors, or following incubation in Ca2+-free medium were compared. We show that agonists induce a fast but relatively small decrease in [Ca2+]er, which is enough to produce a sharp increase in [Ca2+]c. Termination of Ca2+ release is controlled by feedback inhibition of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors by [Ca2+]c, a mechanism that appears to be designed to release the minimum amount of Ca2+ necessary to produced the required [Ca2+]c signal. We also show that Ca2+ release is inhibited progressively when [Ca2+]er decreases below a threshold of about 150 microM, even in the absence of Ca2+ pumping or -Ca2+-c increase. This effect is consistent with a regulation of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-gated channels by [Ca2+]er.

Impairment of phosphatidylinositol signaling in acetylshikonin-treated neutrophils

In rat neutrophils, formylmethionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP)-induced inositol phosphate formation was concentration-dependently inhibited by acetylshikonin as well as by a putative phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor [6-[[17beta-3-methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17-yl]amino]hexyl]-1H-p yrrole-2,5-dione (U73122). The IC50 value of acetylshikonin for the inhibition of inositol trisphosphate (IP3) formation was estimated to be 16.1 +/- 1.5 microM. The reduction of inositol phosphate levels appeared to reflect inhibition of PLC activity because the hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) catalyzed by a soluble fraction from neutrophils was also inhibited by acetylshikonin (IC50 value 21.4 +/- 6.1 microM) over the same range of concentrations. Although acetylshikonin alone evoked Ca2+ and Mn2+ influx into neutrophils in Ca2+-containing medium, acetylshikonin, like U73122, inhibited Ca2+ release (IC50 value approximately 5.3 +/- 0.4 microM) from internal stores in Ca2+-free medium. These results indicate that acetylshikonin inhibits phosphatidylinositol signaling in neutrophils.

Effects of adenophostin-A and inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate on Cl- currents in Xenopus laevis oocytes

Adenophostin-A, a novel compound isolated from cultures of Penicillium brevicompactum, has been shown to stimulate Ca2+ release from inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-sensitive Ca2+ stores in microsomal preparations, permeabilized cells, and lipid vesicles containing purified IP3 receptor. The purpose of the current study was to compare the effects of adenophostin-A and IP3 on Ca2+ release from stores and Ca2+ influx in intact Xenopus laevis oocytes. Ca2+ influx though store-operated Ca2+ channels and Ca2+ release from stores were monitored by measuring two Ca2+ -activated Cl- currents that can be used as real-time indicators of Ca2+ release and Ca2+ influx (I(Cl-1) and I(Cl-2), respectively). We find that high concentrations (final intraoocyte concentrations of 5-10 microM) of adenophostin-A and IP3 stimulate a large Ca2+ release from stores (as measured by I(Cl-1)) followed by Ca2+ influx (as measured by I(Cl-2)). Low concentrations (approximately 50 nM) of IP3 stimulate oscillations in Ca2+ release without stimulating Ca2+ influx. In contrast, low concentrations of adenophostin-A can stimulate Ca2+ influx without stimulating a large Ca2+ release. However, Ca2+ influx did not occur in the complete absence of Ca2+ release. Therefore, it is unlikely that adenophostin-A directly stimulates store-operated Ca2+ channels. We hypothesize that adenophostin-A releases Ca2+ from a subpopulation of stores that is tightly coupled to store-operated Ca2+ channels.

Inhibition by abruquinone A of phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C activation in rat neutrophils

In rat neutrophils, formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLP)-induced phosphate formation was inhibited by abruquinone A (IC50 value about 32.7 +/- 6.4 microM) as well as by a putative phospholipase C inhibitor, [6-[[17 beta-3-methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17-yl]amino]hexyl]-1H-pyrrole- 2,5-dione (U73122) (IC50 value about 11.3 +/- 1.2 microM). The reduction in inositol phosphate levels appeared to reflect inhibition of phospholipase C activity because the hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) catalyzed by a soluble fraction from neutrophils was also inhibited by abruquinone A (IC50 value about 31.4 +/- 5.6 microM) over the same range of concentrations. Although abruquinone A alone induced Ca2+ and Mn2+ influx into neutrophils in Ca(2+)-containing medium, abruquinone A, like U73122, inhibited Ca2+ release (IC50 value about 23.5 +/- 0.5 microM) from internal stores in Ca(2+)-free medium. These results indicate that abruquinone A inhibits the activity of phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C in neutrophils.

Effects of tetrandrine and closely related bis-benzylisoquinoline derivatives on cytosolic Ca2+ in human leukaemic HL-60 cells: a structure-activity relationship study

1. Previously it has been shown that tetrandrine (TET), a bis-benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, isolated from a Chinese herb Stephania tetrandra, can block non-voltage-operated Ca2+ entry activated by intracellular Ca2+ store depletion induced by thapsigargin (TSG) and can release intracellular Ca2+ in HL-60 cells. The present study attempted to identify the chemical group(s) of the TET molecule responsible for these dual effects. The effects of TET and its closely related analogues, hernandezine (HER) and berbamine (BER), on Ca2+ entry and Ca2+ release were compared in fura-2-loaded HL-60 cells. 2. Berbamine was much less potent (IC50 = 200 mumol/L) than TET and HER (both IC50 values = 25 mumol/L) in inhibiting Ca2+ entry activated by TSG. Furthermore, at 100 mumol/L, BER was much less effective than TET and HER in suppressing TSG-induced Mn2+ entry. At 30-100 mumol/L, BER was significantly less effective than both TET and HER in causing Ca2+ release from internal stores. However, only BER was able to cause store depletion-activated Ca2+ entry (or the so-called 'capacitative Ca2+ entry') upon Ca2+ readmission. 3. Taken together, the data from this structure-activity relationship study reveal that the -OCH3 group of one particular benzene ring of TET, which distinguishes TET from BER, in part produces the dual pharmacological actions of TET.

Dissection of lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1-dependent adhesion and signal transduction in human natural killer cells shown by the use of cholera or pertussis toxin

The effect of the guanosine triphosphate-binding protein (G-protein) inhibitors cholera toxin (Ctx) and pertussis toxin (Ptx) has been analyzed on lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1 (LFA-1)-dependent adhesion and signal transduction in human natural killer (NK) cells. Ctx, but not Ptx, inhibited the LFA-1-dependent adhesion of NK cells to tumor target cells which constitutively express the intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and to NIH/3T3 mouse fibroblasts stably transfected with human ICAM-1. This effect was detectable only by the use of the entire Ctx but not of the Ctx B subunit. In addition, Ctx could inhibit both NK cell binding and spreading to purified ICAM-1 protein. NK cell treatment with Ctx modified neither the surface expression of LFA-1 nor its Mg2+ binding site. These findings, together with the absence of any detectable effect of Ctx on the constitutive phosphorylation of LFA-1 alpha, suggests that this toxin modifies the avidity of LFA-1 for ICAM-1 by acting on LFA-1-cytoskeletal protein association. Unlike Ctx, Ptx did not affect NK cell adhesion. The effects of Ctx and Ptx are unlikely to depend on intracellular levels of cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP), since a strong increase of cAMP was induced by both toxins. Moreover, this was confirmed by the observation that the LFA-1-dependent adhesion was not inhibited by the adenylate cyclase activator forskolin (FSK), the phosphodiesterase inhibitor isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX), or both, which increase intracellular cAMP levels. Unlike the differential effect on cell adhesion, both the intracellular calcium [Ca2+]i increase and phosphoinositide breakdown mediated via LFA-1 were consistently inhibited in a dose-dependent manner by both Ctx and Ptx. Also in this case, the inhibitory effect did not depend on an increase of intracellular cAMP as indicated by NK cell treatment with FSK, IBMX, or both. Further evidence of the involvement of G-proteins in LFA-1-mediated signal transduction was the inhibitory effect of the GDP analog guanosine-5'-O-2-thiodiphosphate (GDP beta S) on LFA-1-mediated calcium mobilization. Taken together, our data provide evidence that the LFA-1-mediated NK cell adhesion and signal transduction are partially independent phenomena which may be regulated by different G-proteins.

U-73122, an aminosteroid phospholipase C inhibitor, may also block Ca2+ influx through phospholipase C-independent mechanism in neutrophil activation

1-[6-[[17 beta-3-Methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17-yl]amino]hexyl]-1 H-pyrrole-2,5-dione (U-73122) has been proven to be a useful tool in investigation of phospholipase C (PLC)-coupled signal transduction during cell activation. In the present studies, the inhibition by U-73122 of cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) of neutrophils was investigated. U-73122 suppressed the [Ca2+]i elevation of neutrophils suspended in Ca(2+)-containing medium challenged by N-formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLP), cyclopiazonic acid (CPA) and ionomycin. The concentrations of U-73122 required for inhibition of CPA- and ionomycin-induced changes with IC50 values 4.06 +/- 0.27 microM and 4.04 +/- 0.44 microM, respectively, is almost 10-times that required for inhibition of the fMLP-induced response (IC50 value 0.62 +/- 0.04 microM). U-73122 also reduced the intracellular Ca2+ mobilization of neutrophils suspended in Ca(2+)-free medium stimulated by fMLP and CPA, but not by ionomycin, with IC50 values 0.52 +/- 0.02 microM and 6.82 +/- 0.74 microM, respectively. 1-[6-[[17 beta-3-Methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17-yl]amino]hexyl]-2,5-pyrr olidinedione (U-73343), a close analog of U-73122 that does not inhibit PLC activity, suppressed the [Ca2+]i elevation of neutrophils challenged by fMLP in Ca(2+)-containing medium, but not in Ca(2+)-free medium, with IC50 value 22.30 +/- 1.61 microM. In Mn(2+)-quench studies, U-73122 suppressed the Mn2+ influx in CPA-activated neutrophils (IC50 value was 7.16 +/- 0.28 microM) as well as in resting neutrophils (IC50 value was 6.72 +/- 0.30 microM). U-73343 also suppressed the Mn2+ influx in resting neutrophils in a concentration-dependent manner. These results suggest that the inhibitory effect of U-73122 on [Ca2+]i of activated neutrophils is attributed partly to the suppression of Ca2+ release from the intracellular Ca2+ stores through PLC inhibition, and partly to the blockade, especially at higher concentrations, of Ca2+ entry from the extracellular space through PLC-independent processes.

Dual effects of SK&F 96365 in human leukemic HL-60 cells. Inhibition of calcium entry and activation of a novel cation influx pathway

The effects of the receptor-mediated Ca2+ entry blocker, SK&F 96365 on thapsigargin (TSG)-induced Ca2+ entry in fura-2-loaded HL-60 cells were studied. After Ca2+ release induced by 30 nM TSG, readmission of Ca2+ resulted in a sustained Ca2+ entry, which could be partially inhibited by 1-3 microM SK&F 96365. Surprisingly, SK&F 96365 at 30-100 microM, instead of causing a stronger inhibition, actually promoted Ca2+ entry. Furthermore, at 16-100 microM, this drug released intracellular Ca2+ on its own and induced Ca2+ entry upon readmission of Ca2+. This SK&F 96365-activated Ca2+ entry pathway was insensitive to nifedipine and, interestingly, accessible to Ni2+ and La3+. However, SK&F 96365 (30 microM) almost completely blocked (basal) Mn2+ entry and only caused 4.4% of the cells to be stained with trypan blue, strongly suggesting that the SK&F 96365-activated cation entry was not due to damage nor to a very nonselective permeabilization of the plasma membrane. These data indicate that low concentrations of SK&F 96365 inhibited Ca2+ entry and higher concentrations activated a novel cation entry pathway. Because these 2 opposing effects overlapped at an intermediate concentration (16 microM), which is within the range commonly used to block Ca2+ entry, cautious use of this Ca2+ antagonist appears to be warranted.

HIV-1 gp120-induced neurotoxicity to midbrain dopamine cultures

HIV-1-associated cognitive/motor dysfunction is a frequent neurological complication of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and has been termed AIDS dementia complex (ADC). The HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein gp120 has been implicated in producing brain injury associated with ADC. The purpose of the present study was to determine if gp120-induced neurotoxicity is associated with damage to dopaminergic systems. Exposure of rat midbrain dopamine cultures to gp120 for 3 days reduced the ability of dopaminergic cells to transport this amine and also resulted in a reduction in dopamine neuron process length while it did not alter either dopamine cell number or the total number of neuronal cells. These detrimental effects of gp120 were prevented by an NMDA receptor antagonist (MK-801) or by preincubation with anti-gp120 antibody. These results suggest that dopaminergic neuronal damage may contribute to the manifestations of AIDS dementia complex.

Modulation of the platelet-derived-growth-factor-induced calcium signal by extracellular/intracellular pH in Syrian hamster embryo cells. Implications for the role of calcium in mitogenic signalling

Studies have been performed to understand the interactions and the role which intracellular calcium and intracellular pH have in mediating mitogen-stimulated cellular proliferation. Stimulation of Syrian hamster embryo (SHE) cells with the mitogen platelet-derived growth factor A/B (PDGF) results in intracellular acidification and capacitative calcium entry involving the intracellular release of calcium via the inositol trisphosphate gamma receptor calcium channel, followed by an extracellular influx of calcium through a dihydropyridine-sensitive plasma membrane calcium channel. Chronic extracellular/intracellular acidification results in the inactivation of both these calcium channels due to slowly reversible protein alterations. Paradoxically, transient intracellular acidification, like that following PDGF stimulation, could not stimulate the activation of either calcium channel. In addition, even though intracellular calcium fluxes by themselves could intiate intracellular acidification, loss of the PDGF-induced calcium signal did not result in the loss of the PDGF-induced transient intracellular acidification. Importantly with regard to the role intracellular calcium and pH have in mediating the mitogenic signal leading to cellular proliferation, chronic extracellular/intracellular acidification, which leads to a complete loss of the PDGF-induced calcium signal, did not result in the loss of PDGF-induced mitogenesis. These results indicate that the PDGF-induced calcium signal is not essential for PDGF-stimulated mitogenesis in Syrian hamster embryo cells. In contrast, blocking the PDGF-induced transient intracellular acidification completely blocks PDGF-induced mitogenesis, indicating that the mitogen-induced transient intracellular acidification, unlike the intracellular calcium ion signal, is indispensible for cellular proliferation in Syrian hamster embryo cells.

Regulation of phosphatidylinositide transduction system in the rat spinal cord during aging

Age-related functional alterations in a variety of neurotransmitter systems result in modulation of interneuronal communications which has some relevance in neurological deficits observed in the aging process. The synergistic interactions between protein kinase and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (insP3)/Ca2+ pathways underlie a variety of cellular responses to external stimuli. To determine whether age-dependent changes occur in the regulation of protein kinase C and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate/Ca2+ pathways, insP3 contents as a marker for the release of intracellular calcium, saturation binding analysis of Ins P3 receptor using [3H]inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate, slot/northern blot analysis of Ins P3 receptor-encoding mRNA transcripts, and the activities of Ca2+/phospholipid-dependent protein kinase C isozymes were investigated in the rat spinal cord. Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate content and [3H]inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate binding site density (Bmax) were quantified in the spinal cords of young (three months old), adult (12 months old) and senescent (25 months old) male Fischer 344 rats. Spinal cord content of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate was increased (P < 0.01) in the 25-month old compared to the three- and 12-month old animals. The density of Ins P3 receptor in particulate membranes derived from the 25-month old rats was reduced (P < or = 0.01), but the binding affinity (Kd) was increased (P < or = 0.04) by a factor of 2.2 and 3.2 at 25 months of age when compared with three- and 12-month old animals, respectively. Young and middle-aged animals showed no differences in both inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate contents and [3H]inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate binding site density. The quantity of Ins P3 receptor mRNA was significantly increased with age in the order 25 >> 12 > 3 months of age. Total functional cytosolic and membrane-associated PKC activities were decreased (P < or = 0.05) in the 25-month compared to the three- and 12-month old rats in which activity remained unchanged. Total membrane/cytosolic activity ratios were unchanged by the aging process. In all cases, the activities of membrane-associated conventional protein kinase C isozymes (alpha, beta and gamma), determined by immunoprecipitation followed by in situ quantification of protein kinase C activities in the immunoprecipitates, showed age-dependent decline. The activities of protein kinase C-alpha and beta were significantly decreased in age-related manner. However, the activity of the gamma-isozyme was not significantly changed at 12- and 25-months of age, although it was higher (P < or = 0.03) in young rats. Western blot analyses using affinity purified polyclonal antibodies specific for each isozyme indicated a single protein with an apparent molecular mass of approximately 80 x 10(3) molec. weight for all isozymes except for the beta isozyme that also had an appreciable immunoreactive band at approximately 36 x 10(3) molec. weight. Overall, the aging process did not affect the electropheretic mobility of each isozyme. With decreased protein kinase C activity, the present data suggest that the aging process would decrease protein kinase C-induced phosphorylation of membrane proteins including Ins P3 receptor. A significant change in Ins P3 receptor affinity combined with increased levels of Ins P3 receptor mRNA-encoding transcripts in senescent rats suggests not only a modification (possibly by phosphorylation) of Ins P3 receptor protein but also the existence of multiple (spliced) variants of Ins P3 receptor in spinal neurons with increasing age. The present data indicate that the spinal contents of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate increased with age, but with decreased efficacy and number of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-activatable Ca2+ channels in the spinal cord of senescent rats. These age-related changes may contribute to the attenuated responsiveness of spinal cord neurons by phosphoinositide-coupled receptors during the aging process.

Capacitative calcium entry

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Requirement of phospholipase C-gamma 2 activation in surface immunoglobulin M-induced B cell apoptosis

Surface IgM (sIgM) stimulation induces the tyrosine phosphorylation of multiple cellular substrates, including phospholipase C (PLC)-gamma 2, which is involved in the activation of phosphatidylinositol pathway. DT40 B cells underwent apoptotic cell death when activated through sIgM, a phenomenon that is related to elimination of self-reactive B cells. To examine the roles of PLC-gamma 2 in sIgM signaling, we have generated DT40 cells deficient in PLC-gamma 2 Cross-linking of sIgM on PLC-gamma 2-deficient cells evoked neither inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate nor calcium mobilization. In PLC-gamma 2- or Syk-deficient DT40 cells, the induction of apoptosis was blocked, but was still observed in Lyn-deficient cells. Src homology 2 domains of PLC-gamma 2 were essential for both its activation and sIgM-induced apoptosis. Since tyrosine phosphorylation of PLC-gamma 2 is mediated by Syk, these results indicate that activation of PLC-gamma 2 through Syk is required for sIgM-induced apoptosis.

Capacitative Ca2+ entry contributes to the Ca2+ influx induced by thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) in GH3 pituitary cells

Treatment of GH3 cells with either hypothalamic peptide thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), the endomembrane Ca2+-ATPase inhibitor thapsigargin or the Ca2+ ionophore ionomycin mobilized, with different kinetics, essentially all of the Ca2+ pool from the intracellular Ca2+ stores. Any of the above- described treatments induced a sustained increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), which was dependent on extracellular Ca2+ and was prevented by Ni2+ but not by dihydropyridines (DHPs), suggesting that it was due to capacitative Ca2+ entry via activation of a plasma membrane pathway which opened upon the emptying of the intracellular Ca2+ stores. The increase of the plasma membrane permeability to Ca2+ correlated negatively with the filling degree of the intracellular Ca2+ stores and was reversed by refilling of the stores. The mechanism of capacitative Ca2+ entry into GH3 cells differed from similar mechanisms described in several types of blood cells in that the pathway was poorly permeable to Mn2+ and not sensitive to cytochrome P450 inhibitors. In GH3 cells, TRH induced a transient [Ca2+]i increase due to Ca2+ release from the stores (phase 1) followed by a sustained [Ca2+]i increase due to Ca2+ entry (phase 2). At the single-cell level, phase 2 was composed of a DHP-insensitive sustained [Ca2+]i increase, due to activation of capacitative Ca2+ entry, superimposed upon which DHP- sensitive [Ca2+]i oscillations took place. The two components of the TRH-induced Ca2+ entry differed also in that [Ca2+]i oscillations remained for several minutes after TRH removal, whereas the sustained [Ca2+]i increase dropped quickly to prestimulatory levels, following the same time course as the refilling of the stores. The drop was prevented when the refilling was inhibited by thapsigargin. It is concluded that, even though the mechanisms of capacitative Ca2+ entry may show differences from cell to cell, it is also present and may contribute to the regulation of physiological functions in excitable cells such as GH3. There, capacitative Ca2+ entry cooperates with voltage-gated Ca2+ channels to generate the [Ca2+]i increase seen during phase 2 of TRH action. This contribution of capacitative Ca2+ entry may be relevant to the enhancement of prolactin secretion induced by TRH.

Calcium requirement for cGMP production during muscarinic activation of N1E-115 neuroblastoma cells

Muscarinic agonists elicit large increases in intracellular Ca2+ and guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP) in N1E-115 neuroblastoma cells. Both signals are blocked in cells loaded with the Ca2+ buffer 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid showing that the increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) is necessary to stimulate cGMP accumulation. Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) blocks the cGMP response without affecting the peak amplitude of the intracellular Ca2+ signal, and it is concluded that Ca(2+)-dependent activation of NOS is required for cGMP production. cGMP accumulation is reduced by 60% when cells are bathed in Ca(2+)-free saline, but the peak change in [Ca2+]i is not affected. This suggests that Ca2+ influx is strongly coupled to the activation of cGMP production, even though it makes a smaller contribution to the intracellular Ca2+ signal than does Ca2+ release. Thapsigargin, which releases Ca2+ from intracellular stores, activates Ca2+ influx and increases cGMP. The cGMP increase is transient and follows approximately the same time course as Ca2+ store depletion. Ca2+ influx remains activated after store depletion, however, which indicates that influx alone cannot sustain cGMP production. It is concluded that summation of Ca2+ influx and Ca2+ release is necessary to reach a threshold Ca2+ level needed to stimulate cGMP accumulation. Because of the large contribution from Ca2+ influx, we suggest that NOS or a cofactor necessary for its activation may be located close to Ca2+ channels in the membrane.

Two classes of agonist-sensitive Ca2+ stores in platelets, as identified by their differential sensitivity to 2,5-di-(tert-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone and thapsigargin

In the absence of extracellular Ca2+, extensive Ca2+ release from the platelet intracellular stores [monitored as an increase of intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i)] is produced by the combined action of the endomembrane Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor thapsigargin and 2 nM ionomycin. The titration of Ca2+ unloading with thapsigargin (plus ionomycin) shows that a substantial fraction of the store-associated Ca2+ is released by 8-10 nM thapsigargin, but that 100-200 nM thapsigargin is required for the complete release. The store depletion obtained in similar conditions with a different endomembrane Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor, 2,5-di-(tert-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone (TBHQ), is always incomplete. It is completed by thrombin or by 10 nM thapsigargin. We conclude that two different types of Ca2+ pumps exist in platelets, one sensitive to TBHQ and to high thapsigargin, the other insensitive to TBHQ and sensitive to low thapsigargin. They are distributed separately in discrete subpopulations of the agonist-sensitive stores. The influx of external Ca2+ is maximal when both types of stores are Ca(2+)-depleted, either by high thapsigargin or by the combined action of low thapsigargin and TBHQ.