Protein kinase C isotypes and signal-transduction in human neutrophils: selective substrate specificity of calcium-dependent beta-PKC and novel calcium-independent nPKC

Protein kinase C isoforms mediate the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps

Neutrophils release extracellular traps (NETs) in response to numerous pathogenic microbes as the last suicidal resource (NETosis) in the fight against infection. Apart from the host defense function, NETs play an essential role in the pathogenesis of various autoimmune, inflammatory and malignant diseases. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms of NETosis is important for regulating the aberrant or excessive NET release. Protein kinase C (PKC) is a serine/threonine kinase which is involved in various neutrophil functions, however, little is known about its implication in NETosis activated by various physiological and pharmacological stimuli. Since there are conventional, novel and atypical PKC isoforms (α, βI, βII, δ, and ζ) found in human neutrophils, we investigated their impact in NETosis, oxidative burst and spreading applying pharmacological approach. Using specific inhibitors of PKC isoforms, we showed that PKCβ, PKCδ, and PKCζ are involved in the oxidative burst, spreading and NETosis activated by calcium ionophore A23187, while only PKCβ is implicated in these functions activated by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA). The data obtained in our study might help in the development of new drugs useful for the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases associated with NETs.

Ion and Water Transport in Neutrophil Granulocytes and Its Impairment during Sepsis

Neutrophil granulocytes are the vanguard of innate immunity in response to numerous pathogens. Their activity drives the clearance of microbe- and damage-associated molecular patterns, thereby contributing substantially to the resolution of inflammation. However, excessive stimulation during sepsis leads to cellular unresponsiveness, immunological dysfunction, bacterial expansion, and subsequent multiple organ dysfunction. During the short lifespan of neutrophils, they can become significantly activated by complement factors, cytokines, and other inflammatory mediators. Following stimulation, the cells respond with a defined (electro-)physiological pattern, including depolarization, calcium influx, and alkalization as well as with increased metabolic activity and polarization of the actin cytoskeleton. Activity of ion transport proteins and aquaporins is critical for multiple cellular functions of innate immune cells, including chemotaxis, generation of reactive oxygen species, and phagocytosis of both pathogens and tissue debris. In this review, we first describe the ion transport proteins and aquaporins involved in the neutrophil ion-water fluxes in response to chemoattractants. We then relate ion and water flux to cellular functions with a focus on danger sensing, chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and oxidative burst and approach the role of altered ion transport protein expression and activity in impaired cellular functions and cell death during systemic inflammation as in sepsis.

Polymorphonuclear Cell Chemotaxis and Suicidal NETosis: Simultaneous Observation Using fMLP, PMA, H7, and Live Cell Imaging

Chemotaxis and the formation of suicidal neutrophil extracellular traps (suicidal NETosis) are key functions of polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs). Neutrophil extracellular traps in particular are known to be significantly involved in the severity of inflammatory and immunological disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease. Therefore, detailed knowledge of PMNs is essential for analyzing the mechanisms involved in, and developing new therapies for, such diseases. To date, no standard method to analyze these cell activities has been established. This study used in vitro live cell imaging to simultaneously observe and analyze PMN functions. To demonstrate this, the effects of phorbol-12-myristat-13-acetat (PMA, 0.1-10 nM), N-formylmethionine-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP, 10 nM), and protein kinase C inhibitor 1-(5-isoquinolinesulfonyl)-2-methylpiperazine (H7) on PMN chemotaxis and suicidal NETosis were studied. PMA (1 nM-10 nM) resulted in significant concentration-dependent behavior in chemotaxis and an earlier onset of maximum oxidative burst and NET formation of up to 44%. When adding H7, PMA-triggered PMN functions were reduced, demonstrating that all three functions rely mostly on protein kinase C (PKC) activity, while PKC is not essential for fMLP-induced PMN activity. Thus, the method here described can be used to objectively quantify PMN functions and, especially through the regulation of the PKC pathway, could be useful in further clinical studies of immunological disorders.

Exploring the impact of a naturally occurring sapogenin diosgenin on underlying mechanisms of Ca2+ movement and cytotoxicity in human prostate cancer cells

Literature has shown that diosgenin, a naturally occurring sapogenin, inducedcytotoxic effects in many cancer models. This study investigated the effect of diosgenin on intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration ([Ca²⁺ ]i) and cytotoxicity in PC3 human prostate cancer cells. Diosgenin (250-1000 μM) caused [Ca²⁺ ]i rises which was reduced by Ca²⁺ removal. Treatment with thapsigargin eliminated diosgenin-induced [Ca²⁺ ]i increases. In contrast, incubation with diosgeninabolished thapsigargin-caused [Ca²⁺ ]i increases. Suppression of phospholipase C with U73122 eliminated diosgenin-caused [Ca²⁺ ]i increases. Diosgenin evoked Mn²⁺ influx suggesting that diosgenin induced Ca²⁺ entry. Diosgenin-induced Ca²⁺ influx was suppressed by PMA, GF109203X, and nifedipine, econazole, or SKF96365. Diosgenin (250-600 μM) concentration-dependently decreased cell viability. However, diosgenin-induced cytotoxicity was not reversed by chelation of cytosolic Ca²⁺ with BAPTA/AM. Together, diosgenin evoked [Ca²⁺ ]i increases via Ca²⁺ release and Ca²⁺ influx, and caused Ca²⁺ -non-associated deathin PC3 cells. These findings reveal a newtherapeutic potential of diosgenin for human prostate cancer.

Bacillus amyloliquefaciens SC06 alleviates the oxidative stress of IPEC-1 via modulating Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway and decreasing ROS production

Oxidative stress (OS) plays a major role in the gastrointestinal disorders. Although probiotics were reported to repress OS, few researches compared the antioxidant ability of different Bacillus strains and deciphered the mechanisms. To select a Bacillus strain with higher antioxidant capacity, we used H₂O₂ to induce intestinal porcine epithelial cell 1 (IPEC-1) OS model. The most suitable H₂O₂ concentration and incubation time were determined by the half lethal dose and methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium. Correlation analysis was performed to choose a sensitive indicator for OS. As for the comparison of Bacillus, cells were divided into control, Bacillus treatment, H₂O₂ treatment, and Bacillus pre-protection + H₂O₂ treatment. Bacillus were co-cultured with IPEC-1 for 3 h in Bacillus and Bacillus pre-protection + H₂O₂ treatments. Then, based on OS model, 300 μmol/L H₂O₂ was added into medium of H₂O₂ and Bacillus pre-protection + H₂O₂ treatments for another 12 h. Antioxidant and apoptosis gene expressions were detected to screen the target strain. Nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/Kelch-like ECH-associated protein1 (Keap1) pathway, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm), apoptosis, and necrosis were analyzed. Results revealed that heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) gene expression had a positive correlation with H₂O₂ induction. Moreover, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens SC06 (SC06)-meditated IPEC-1 showed the best antioxidant capacity though modulating Nrf2 phosphorylation. Δψm was elevated, while ROS generation was reduced with SC06 pre-protection, resulting in decreased apoptosis and necrosis. Altogether, HO-1 expression could be regarded as an OS indicator. The regulation of Nrf2/Keap1 pathway and ROS production by SC06 are involved in alleviating OS of IPEC-1.

Mycobacterium indicus pranii (MIP) mediated host protective intracellular mechanisms against tuberculosis infection: Involvement of TLR-4 mediated signaling

Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection inflicts the disease Tuberculosis (TB), which is fatal if left untreated. During M. tuberculosis infection, the pathogen modulates TLR-4 receptor down-stream signaling, indicating the possible involvement of TLR-4 in the regulation of the host immune response. Mycobacterium indicus pranii (MIP) possesses immuno-modulatory properties which induces the pro-inflammatory responses via induction of TLR-4-mediated signaling. Here, we observed the immunomodulatory properties of MIP against tuberculosis infection. We have studied the detailed signaling mechanisms employed by MIP in order to restore the host immune response against the in vitro tuberculosis infection. We observed that in infected macrophages MIP treatment significantly increased the TLR-4 expression as well as activation of its downstream signaling, facilitating the activation of P38 MAP kinase. MIP treatment was able to activate NF-κB via involvement of TLR-4 signaling leading to the enhanced pro-inflammatory cytokine and NO generation in the infected macrophages and generation of protective immune response. Therefore, we may suggest that, TLR4 may represent a novel therapeutic target for the activation of the innate immune response during Tuberculosis infection.

Glycyrrhizic Acid Promotes M1 Macrophage Polarization in Murine Bone Marrow-Derived Macrophages Associated with the Activation of JNK and NF-κB

The roots and rhizomes of Glycyrrhiza species (licorice) have been widely used as natural sweeteners and herbal medicines. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of glycyrrhizic acid (GA) from licorice on macrophage polarization. Both phenotypic and functional activities of murine bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) treated by GA were assessed. Our results showed that GA obviously increased the cell surface expression of CD80, CD86, and MHCII molecules. Meanwhile, GA upregulated the expression of CCR7 and the production of TNF-α, IL-12, IL-6, and NO (the markers of classically activated (M1) macrophages), whereas it downregulated the expression of MR, Ym1, and Arg1 (the markers of alternatively activated (M2) macrophage). The functional tests showed that GA dramatically enhanced the uptake of FITC-dextran and E. coli K88 by BMDMs and decreased the intracellular survival of E. coli K88 and S. typhimurium. Moreover, we demonstrated that JNK and NF-κB activation are required for GA-induced NO and M1-related cytokines production, while ERK1/2 pathway exhibits a regulatory effect via induction of IL-10. Together, these findings indicated that GA promoted polarization of M1 macrophages and enhanced its phagocytosis and bactericidal capacity. The results expanded our knowledge about the role of GA in macrophage polarization.

Toll-Like Receptor 2 Targeted Rectification of Impaired CD8⁺ T Cell Functions in Experimental Leishmania donovani Infection Reinstates Host Protection

Leishmania donovani, a protozoan parasite, causes the disease visceral leishmanisis (VL), characterized by inappropriate CD8+ T-cell activation. Therefore, we examined whether the Toll-like Receptor 2 (TLR2) ligand Ara-LAM, a cell wall glycolipid from non-pathogenic Mycobacterium smegmatis, would restore CD8+ T-cell function during VL. We observed that by efficient upregulation of TLR2 signaling-mediated NF-κB translocation and MAPK signaling in CD8+ T-cells (CD25+CD28+IL-12R+IFN-γR+), Ara-LAM triggered signaling resulted in the activation of T-bet, which in turn, induced transcription favourable histone modification at the IFN-γ, perforin, granzyme-B promoter regions in CD8+ T-cells. Thus, we conclude that Ara-LAM induced efficient activation of effector CD8+ T-cells by upregulating the expression of IFN-γ, perforin and granzyme-B in an NF-κB and MAPK induced T-bet dependent manner in VL.

Mycobacterium indicus pranii (Mw) inhibits invasion by reducing matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-9) via AKT/ERK-1/2 and PKCα signaling: A potential candidate in melanoma cancer therapy

Invasion and metastasis via induction of matrix metalloproteinases are the main causes of death in melanoma cancer. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of heat killed saprophytic bacterium Mycobacterium indicus pranii (Mw) on B16F10 melanoma cell invasion. Mw reported to be an immunomodulator has antitumor activity however, its effect on cancer cell invasion has not been studied. Highly invasive B16F10 melanoma was found sensitive to Mw which downregulated MMP-9 expression. Mw treatment inhibited nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and activator protein-1 (AP-1) transcriptional activity and respective DNA binding to MMP-9 promoter. Moreover, Mw also overcame the promoting effects of PMA on B16F10 cell invasion. Mw decreased PMA-induced transcriptional activation of NF-κB and AP-1 by inhibiting phosphorylation of AKT and ERK-1/2. Furthermore, Mw strongly suppressed PMA-induced membrane localization of protein kinase C α (PKCα) since PKCα inhibition caused a marked decrease in PMA-induced MMP-9 secretion as well as AKT/ERK-1/2 activation. These results suggest that Mw may be a promising anti-invasive agent as it blocks tumor growth and inhibits B16F10 cell invasion by reducing MMP-9 activation through inhibition of PKCα/ AKT/ ERK-1/2 phosphorylation and NF-κB/AP-1 activation.

The combination of a novel immunomodulator with a regulatory T cell suppressing antibody (DTA-1) regress advanced stage B16F10 solid tumor by repolarizing tumor associated macrophages in situ

Tumor associated macrophages and tumor infiltrating regulatory T cells greatly hamper host-protective antitumor responses. Therefore, we utilized a novel immunomodulator, heat-killed Mycobacterium indicus pranii (Mw), to repolarize TAM and an agonistic GITR antibody (DTA-1) to reduce intratumoral regulatory T cell frequency for generation of a host-protective antitumor response. Although, the combination of Mw and DTA-1was found to be effective against advanced stage tumors, however, Mw or DTA-1 failed to do so when administered individually. The presence of high level of regulatory T cells abrogated the only Mw induced antitumor functions, whereas only DTA-1 treatment was found to be ineffective due to its inability to induce TAM repolarization in vivo. The combination therapy was found to be effective since DTA-1 treatment reduced the frequency of regulatory T cells to such an extent where they could not attenuate Mw induced TAM repolarization in vivo. Therefore, the combination therapy involving Mw and DTA-1 may be utilized to the success of advanced stage solid tumor immunotherapies.

Antigen-Pulsed CpG-ODN-Activated Dendritic Cells Induce Host-Protective Immune Response by Regulating the T Regulatory Cell Functioning in Leishmania donovani-Infected Mice: Critical Role of CXCL10

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL), caused by Leishmania donovani, is a systemic infection of reticulo-endothelial system. There is currently no protective vaccine against VL and chemotherapy is increasingly limited due to appearance of drug resistance to first line drugs such as antimonials and amphotericin B. In the present study, by using a murine model of leishmaniasis we evaluated the function played by soluble leishmanial antigen (SLA)-pulsed CpG-ODN-stimulated dendritic cells (SLA–CpG–DCs) in restricting the intracellular parasitic growth. We establish that a single dose of SLA–CpG–DC vaccination is sufficient in rendering complete protection against L. donovani infection. In probing the possible mechanism, we observe that SLA–CpG–DCs vaccination results in the significant decrease in Foxp3⁺GITR⁺CTLA4⁺CD4⁺CD25⁺ regulatory T cells (Treg) cell population in Leishmania-infected mice. Vaccination with these antigen-stimulated dendritic cells results in the decrease in the secretion of TGF-β by these Treg cells by possible regulation of the SMAD signaling. Moreover, we demonstrate that a CXC chemokine, IFN-γ-inducible protein 10 (IP-10; CXCL10), has a direct role in the regulation of CD4⁺CD25⁺ Treg cells in SLA–CpG–DC-vaccinated parasitized mice as Treg cells isolated from IP-10-depleted vaccinated mice showed significantly increased TGF-β production and suppressive activity.

Immune subversion by Mycobacterium tuberculosis through CCR5 mediated signaling: involvement of IL-10

Tuberculosis is characterized by severe immunosuppression of the host macrophages, resulting in the loss of the host protective immune responses. During Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, the pathogen modulates C-C Chemokine Receptor 5 (CCR5) to enhance IL-10 production, indicating the possible involvement of CCR5 in regulation of the host immune response. Here, we found that Mycobacterium infection significantly increased CCR5 expression in macrophages there by facilitating the activation of its downstream signaling. These events culminated in up-regulation of the immunosuppressive cytokine IL-10 production, which was further associated with the down-regulation of macrophage MHC-II expression along with the up-regulation of CCR5 expression via engagement of STAT-3 in a positive feedback loop. Treatment of macrophages with CCR5 specific siRNA abrogated the IL-10 production and restored MHCII expression. While, in vivo CCR5 silencing was also effective for the restoration of host immune responses against tuberculosis. This study demonstrated that CCR5 played a very critical role for the immune subversion mechanism employed by the pathogen.

Overexpressed PKCδ downregulates the expression of PKCα in B16F10 melanoma: induction of apoptosis by PKCδ via ceramide generation

In the present study, we observed a marked variation in the expression of PKCα and PKCδ isotypes in B16F10 melanoma tumor cells compared to the normal melanocytes. Interestingly, the tumor instructed expression or genetically manipulated overexpression of PKCα isotype resulted in enhanced G1 to S transition. This in turn promoted cellular proliferation by activating PLD1 expression and subsequent AKT phosphorylation, which eventually resulted in suppressed ceramide generation and apoptosis. On the other hand, B16F10 melanoma tumors preferentially blocked the expression of PKCδ isotype, which otherwise could exhibit antagonistic effects on PKCα-PLD1-AKT signaling and rendered B16F10 cells more sensitive to apoptosis via generating ceramide and subsequently triggering caspase pathway. Hence our data suggested a reciprocal PKC signaling operational in B16F10 melanoma cells, which regulates ceramide generation and provide important clues to target melanoma cancer by manipulating the PKCδ-ceramide axis.

Protein kinase C and acute respiratory distress syndrome

The acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a major public health problem and a leading source of morbidity in intensive care units. Lung tissue in patients with ARDS is characterized by inflammation, with exuberant neutrophil infiltration, activation, and degranulation that is thought to initiate tissue injury through the release of proteases and oxygen radicals. Treatment of ARDS is supportive primarily because the underlying pathophysiology is poorly understood. This gap in knowledge must be addressed to identify urgently needed therapies. Recent research efforts in anti-inflammatory drug development have focused on identifying common control points in multiple signaling pathways. The protein kinase C (PKC) serine-threonine kinases are master regulators of proinflammatory signaling hubs, making them attractive therapeutic targets. Pharmacological inhibition of broad-spectrum PKC activity and, more importantly, of specific PKC isoforms (as well as deletion of PKCs in mice) exerts protective effects in various experimental models of lung injury. Furthermore, PKC isoforms have been implicated in inflammatory processes that may be involved in the pathophysiologic changes that result in ARDS, including activation of innate immune and endothelial cells, neutrophil trafficking to the lung, regulation of alveolar epithelial barrier functions, and control of neutrophil proinflammatory and prosurvival signaling. This review focuses on the mechanistic involvement of PKC isoforms in the pathogenesis of ARDS and highlights the potential of developing new therapeutic paradigms based on the selective inhibition (or activation) of specific PKC isoforms.

Power Generation from Human Leukocytes/Lymphocytes in Mammalian Biofuel Cell

Alternative to batteries power sources is needed for the human implants of the future that tend to be less invasive and more integrated to human biology and physiology. Human metabolism could be exploited for the generation of power, but mammalian cells protect their energy production apparatus from external electrochemical scavengers. We report here evidence that, in the case of white blood cells, chemical energy can be harvested directly on an electrode as electricity in fuel cells whose stability is roughly parallel to the viability of cells in vitro. Electrochemical activity of human leukocytes immobilized on modified carbon mesh electrodes was investigated by cyclic voltammetry. Oxidation peaks at 0.33 V versus Ag/AgCl were observed. An open-circuit potential of 0.44 V was recorded between anode and cathode compartments where the biofuel cell potential operating under an external load of 5 kΩ was below 0.35 V. Average power outputs of 10 μW (2.4×10-6 μW/cell) were increased to 15 μW by the activation of white blood cells. Power densities of 1.5 μW cm−2for lower than physiological cell concentrations are low for most of today’s implants, but possibility of cell immobilization allows a positive outlook for the future utility of the reported findings.

Cell signaling through protein kinase C oxidation and activation

Due to the growing importance of cellular signaling mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS), proteins that are reversibly modulated by these reactant molecules are of high interest. In this context, protein kinases and phosphatases, which act coordinately in the regulation of signal transduction through the phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of target proteins, have been described to be key elements in ROS-mediated signaling events. The major mechanism by which these proteins may be modified by oxidation involves the presence of key redox-sensitive cysteine residues. Protein kinase C (PKC) is involved in a variety of cellular signaling pathways. These proteins have been shown to contain a unique structural feature that is susceptible to oxidative modification. A large number of scientific studies have highlighted the importance of ROS as a second messenger in numerous cellular processes, including cell proliferation, gene expression, adhesion, differentiation, senescence, and apoptosis. In this context, the goal of this review is to discuss the mechanisms by which PKCs are modulated by ROS and how these processes are involved in the cellular response.

Glycyrrhizic acid suppresses Cox-2-mediated anti-inflammatory responses during Leishmania donovani infection

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to characterize glycyrrhizic acid (GA) and assess its immunomodulatory potential in a model of experimental visceral leishmaniasis.

METHODS

The antileishmanial activity of GA was tested in an amastigote-macrophage model and its non-cytotoxic dose was measured by a cell viability assay. To understand the effector mechanism of GA-treated macrophages against leishmanial parasites, real-time PCR analysis of inducible nitric oxide synthase 2 (iNOS2) was carried out followed by measurement of nitric oxide generation by Griess reagent. The effect of GA on the production of cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-12, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-10 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, was measured by ELISA (protein) and real-time PCR. The expression of iNOS2 and cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) was studied by western blotting. The parasite burden of the liver and spleen following GA treatment was determined by the stamp-smear method, and T cell proliferation was assessed via [³H]thymidine uptake, measured by a liquid scintillation counter.

RESULTS

Results showed that GA treatment caused an enhanced expression of iNOS2 along with inhibition of Cox-2 in Leishmania donovani-infected macrophages. GA treatment in infected macrophages enhanced the expression of IL-12 and TNF-α, concomitant with a down-regulation of IL-10 and TGF-β. GA increased macrophage effector responses via inhibition of Cox-2-mediated prostaglandin E2 release in L. donovani-infected macrophages. GA also decreased hepatic and splenic parasite burden and increased T cell proliferation in Leishmania-infected BALB/c mice.

CONCLUSIONS

These results provide a mechanistic understanding of GA-mediated protection against leishmanial parasites within the host.

Prolactin-induced activation of phagocyte NADPH oxidase in the teleost fish gilthead seabream involves the phosphorylation of p47phox by protein kinase C

The pituitary hormone prolactin (PRL) is a multifunctional polypeptide which act as a key component of the neuroendocrine-immune loop and as a local regulator of the macrophage response. The involvement of PRL in regulating monocyte/macrophage functions is suggested by the presence of PRL receptors in these cells. Recently, we reported that physiological concentrations of native PRL were able to induce the expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNFα, and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in head kidney leukocytes and macrophages from the teleost fish gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata L.). In this study, we show that the NADPH oxidase subunit p47phox becomes phosphorylated in leukocytes stimulated with PRL, an effect that is blocked when neutralizing polyclonal antibodies to PRL are added. Additionally, the pharmacological inhibition of either protein kinase C (PKC) with calphostin C or the Jak/Stat signaling pathway with AG490 impaired PKC activation, p47phox phosphorylation and ROS production in seabream leukocytes activated with PRL. Taken together, our results demonstrate for the first time the need for PKC in regulating the PRL-mediated phosphorylation of p47phox, the activation of NADPH oxidase and the production of ROS by macrophages in vertebrates.

TLR signaling-mediated differential histone modification at IL-10 and IL-12 promoter region leads to functional impairments in tumor-associated macrophages

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) are severely compromised for the induction of proinflammatory mediators following toll-like receptor (TLR) activation. Here, we reported that the defective TLR response in TAM was due to the malfunctioning of the myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88)-dependent signaling cascade in concert with downregulation of tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor (TRAF) 6 and interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase (IRAK) 1. However, the expression of toll-interleukin1 receptor domain-containing adapter-inducing interferon beta (TRIF) and TRAF 3, which act via the TRIF-dependent pathway of TLR signaling, were found to be unaffected in TAM. Although, TRIF-mediated signal inducers, lipopolysaccharide or poly (I:C), induced high level of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-1/2 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation, but they were failed to induce significant p38MAPK phosphorylation in TAM. Consequently, ERK-1/2-dependent histone phosphorylation at the IL-10 promoter elicited enhanced interleukin (IL)-10 production by TAM. Whereas, the lack of transcription favorable histone phosphorylation at the IL-12 promoter was accompanied with a very low amount of IL-12 expression in TAM. Moreover, ERK-1/2 MAPK activation resulted in enhanced IRAK M induction in TAM, a specific inhibitor of MyD88 pathway. Therefore, for the first time, we decipher an unexplored TLR signaling in TAM where ERK-1/2 activation in a MyD88-independent pathway results in transcription favorable histone modification at the IL-10 promoter region to enhance IL-10-mediated immunosuppression. Additionally, by enhancing IRAK M induction, it also polarizes TAM toward a more immunosuppressive form.

Arabinosylated lipoarabinomannan skews Th2 phenotype towards Th1 during Leishmania infection by chromatin modification: involvement of MAPK signaling

The parasitic protozoan Leishmania donovani is the causative organism for visceral leishmaniasis (VL) which persists in the host macrophages by deactivating its signaling machinery resulting in a critical shift from proinflammatory (Th1) to an anti-inflammatory (Th2) response. The severity of this disease is mainly determined by the production of IL-12 and IL-10 which could be reversed by use of effective immunoprophylactics. In this study we have evaluated the potential of Arabinosylated Lipoarabinomannan (Ara-LAM), a cell wall glycolipid isolated from non pathogenic Mycobacterium smegmatis, in regulating the host effector response via effective regulation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling cascades in Leishmania donovani infected macrophages isolated from BALB/C mice. Ara-LAM, a Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) specific ligand, was found to activate p38 MAPK signaling along with subsequent abrogation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERKs) signaling. The use of pharmacological inhibitors of p38MAPK and ERK signaling showed the importance of these signaling pathways in the regulation of IL-10 and IL-12 in Ara-LAM pretreated parasitized macrophages. Molecular characterization of this regulation of IL-10 and IL-12 was revealed by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay (CHIP) which showed that in Ara-LAM pretreated parasitized murine macrophages there was a significant induction of IL-12 by selective phosphorylation and acetylation of histone H3 residues at its promoter region. While, IL-10 production was attenuated by Ara-LAM pretreatment via abrogation of histone H3 phosphorylation and acetylation at its promoter region. This Ara-LAM mediated antagonistic regulations in the induction of IL-10 and IL-12 genes were further correlated to changes in the transcriptional regulators Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and Suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3). These results demonstrate the crucial role played by Ara-LAM in regulating the MAPK signaling pathway along with subsequent changes in host effector response during VL which might provide crucial clues in understanding the Ara-LAM mediated protection during Leishmania induced pathogenesis.

Treatment with IP-10 induces host-protective immune response by regulating the T regulatory cell functioning in Leishmania donovani-infected mice

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL), caused by the protozoan parasite, Leishmania donovani, is characterized by an infection in the liver and spleen. The failure of the first-line drugs has led to the development of new strategies for combating VL. Recently, our group has shown that interferon-γ-inducible protein (IP)-10, a CXC chemokine, renders protection against VL. In the present study, we have elucidated the mechanism by which IP-10 renders protection in in vivo L. donovani infection. We observed that IP-10-treated parasitized BALB/c mice showed a strong host-protective T helper cell (Th) 1 immune response along with marked decrease in immunosuppressive cytokines, tumor growth factor (TGF)-β, and interleukin (IL)-10 secreting CD4(+) T cells. This IP-10-mediated decrease in immunosuppressive cytokines was correlated with the reduction in the elevated frequency of CD4(+)CD25(+) T regulatory (Treg) cells along with the reduced TFG-β production from these Treg cells in Leishmania-infected mice. This reduction in TGF-β production was due to effective modulation of TGF-β signaling by IP-10, which reduced the immunosuppressive activity of Treg cells. Thus, these findings put forward a detailed mechanistic insight into IP-10-mediated regulation of the Treg cell functioning during experimental VL, which might be helpful in combating Leishmania-induced pathogenesis.

Protective effects of luteolin against lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury involves inhibition of MEK/ERK and PI3K/Akt pathways in neutrophils

AIM

To investigate whether luteolin, the major polyphenolic components of Lonicera japonica, has beneficial effects against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) and to determine whether the protective mechanism involves anti-inflammatory effects on neutrophils.

METHODS

ALI was induced with intratracheal instillation of LPS in mice. The level of ALI was determined by measuring the cell count and protein content in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. Neutrophils were stimulated with formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLP) or LPS in vitro. Chemotaxis and superoxide anion generation were measured to evaluate neutrophil activation. The potential involvement of intracellular signaling molecules in regulating neutrophil activation was analyzed by using Western blot.

RESULTS

LPS induced ALI in mice, as evidenced with leukocyte infiltration and protein leakage into the lungs. Luteolin attenuated LPS-induced leukocyte infiltration and protein extravasation. In cell studies, luteolin attenuated the fMLP-induced neutrophil chemotaxis and respiratory burst (IC(50) 0.2+/-0.1 micromol/L and 2.2+/-0.8 micromol/L, respectively), but had a negligible effect on superoxide anion generation during phorbol myristate acetate stimulation. Furthermore luteolin effectively blocked MAPK/ERK kinase 1/2 (MEK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and Akt phosphorylation in fMLP- and LPS-stimulated neutrophils.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that luteolin has beneficial effects against LPS-induced ALI in mice, and the attenuation of neutrophil chemotaxis and respiratory burst by luteolin involves the blockade of MEK-, ERK-, and Akt-related signaling cascades.

Regulation of phagocyte NADPH oxidase by hydrogen peroxide through a Ca(2+)/c-Abl signaling pathway

The importance of H(2)O(2) as a cellular signaling molecule has been demonstrated in a number of cell types and pathways. Here we explore a positive feedback mechanism of H(2)O(2)-mediated regulation of the phagocyte respiratory burst NADPH oxidase (NOX2). H(2)O(2) induced a dose-dependent stimulation of superoxide production in human neutrophils, as well as in K562 leukemia cells overexpressing NOX2 system components. Stimulation was abrogated by the addition of catalase, the extracellular Ca(2+) chelator BAPTA, the T-type Ca(2+) channel inhibitor mibefradil, the PKCdelta inhibitor rottlerin, or the c-Abl nonreceptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib mesylate or by overexpression of a dominant-negative form of c-Abl. H(2)O(2) induced phosphorylation of tyrosine 311 on PKCdelta and this activating phosphorylation was blocked by treatment with rottlerin, imatinib mesylate, or BAPTA. Rac GTPase activation in response to H(2)O(2) was abrogated by BAPTA, imatinib mesylate, or rottlerin. In conclusion, H(2)O(2) stimulates NOX2-mediated superoxide generation in neutrophils and K562/NOX2 cells via a signaling pathway involving Ca(2+) influx and c-Abl tyrosine kinase acting upstream of PKCdelta. This positive feedback regulatory pathway has important implications for amplifying the innate immune response and contributing to oxidative stress in inflammatory disorders.

Characterization of P-Rex1 for its role in fMet-Leu-Phe-induced superoxide production in reconstituted COS(phox) cells

P-Rex1 (phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate-dependent Rac exchanger 1) is a Rac-specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor activated by Gbetagamma subunits and by PtdIns((3,4,5))P(3). Recent studies indicate that P-Rex1 plays an important role in signaling downstream of neutrophil chemoattractant receptors. Here we report that heterologous expression of P-Rex1, but not Vav1, reconstitutes formyl peptide receptor 1 (FPR1)-mediated NADPH oxidase activation in the transgenic COS(phox) cells expressing gp91(phox), p22(phox), p67(phox) and p47(phox). A successful reconstitution requires the expression of a full-length P-Rex1 with intact DH and PH domains, and is accompanied by P-Rex1 membrane localization as well as Rac1 activation. P-Rex1-dependent superoxide generation in the reconstituted COS(phox) cells was further enhanced by expression of the novel PKC isoform PKCdelta and by overexpression of Akt. Heterologous expression of P-Rex1 in COS(phox) cells potentiated fMet-Leu-Phe-induced Akt phosphorylation, whereas expression of a constitutively active form of Akt enhanced Rac1 activation. In contrast, a dominant negative Akt mutant reduced the fMet-Leu-Phe stimulated superoxide generation as well as Rac1 activation. These results demonstrate that in COS(phox) cells, P-Rex1 is a critical component for FPR1-mediated signaling leading to NADPH oxidase activation, and there is a crosstalk between the P-Rex1-Rac pathway and Akt in superoxide generation.

BCR-induced superoxide negatively regulates B-cell proliferation and T-cell-independent type 2 Ab responses

Superoxide and its derivatives have been implicated as secondary messenger molecules that influence signaling cascades in non-phagocytes. B lymphocytes produce superoxide after BCR ligation. We found that these ROS regulate B-cell signaling and entry into the cell cycle. B cells from mice deficient in the gp91(phox) subunit of the NADPH oxidase complex are unable to generate ROS after BCR ligation. However, after BCR stimulation, more gp91(phox) KO B cells enter the G1 stage of the cell cycle and proliferate than WT B cells. BCR ligation leads to a more rapid decrease in p27(Kip1) levels in gp91(phox) KO B cells. Gp91(phox) KO mice display enhanced T-cell-independent type 2, but normal T-dependent Ab responses. ROS-dependent regulation of BCR-induced proliferation may help modulate the size of the humoral response to T-cell-independent type 2 Ag immunization.

Regulation of TNF-induced oxygen radical production in human neutrophils: role of delta-PKC

In human neutrophils, TNF-elicited O(2)(-) production requires adherence and integrin activation. How this cooperative signaling between TNFRs and integrins regulates O(2)(-) generation has yet to be fully elucidated. Previously, we identified delta-PKC as a critical early regulator of TNF signaling in adherent neutrophils. In this study, we demonstrate that inhibition of delta-PKC with a dominant-negative delta-PKC TAT peptide resulted in a significant delay in the onset time of TNF-elicited O(2)(-) generation but had no effect on Vmax, indicating an involvement of delta-PKC in the initiation of O(2)(-) production. In contrast, fMLP-elicited O(2)(-) production in adherent and nonadherent neutrophils was delta-PKC-independent, suggesting differential regulation of O(2)(-) production. An important step in activation of the NADPH oxidase is phosphorylation of the cytosolic p47phox component. In adherent neutrophils, TNF triggered a time-dependent association of delta-PKC with p47phox, which was associated with p47phox phosphorylation, indicating a role for delta-PKC in regulating O(2)(-) production at the level of p47phox. Activation of ERK and p38 MAPK is also required for TNF-elicited O(2)(-) generation. TNF-mediated ERK but not p38 MAPK recruitment to p47phox was delta-PKC-dependent. delta-PKC activity is controlled through serine/threonine phosphorylation, and phosphorylation of delta-PKC (Ser643) and delta-PKC (Thr505) was increased significantly by TNF in adherent cells via a PI3K-dependent process. Thus, signaling for TNF-elicited O(2)(-) generation is regulated by delta-PKC. Adherence-dependent cooperative signaling activates PI3K signaling, delta-PKC phosphorylation, and delta-PKC recruitment to p47phox. delta-PKC activates p47phox by serine phosphorylation or indirectly through control of ERK recruitment to p47phox.

Regulation of superoxide production in neutrophils: role of calcium influx

Upon stimulation, activation of NADPH oxidase complexes in neutrophils produces a burst of superoxide anions contributing to oxidative stress and the development of inflammatory process. Store-operated calcium entry (SOCE), whereby the depletion of intracellular stores induces extracellular calcium influx, is known to be a crucial element of NADPH oxidase regulation. However, the mechanistic basis mediating SOCE is still only partially understood, as is the signal-coupling pathway leading to modulation of store-operated channels. This review emphasizes the role of calcium influx in the control of the NADPH oxidase and summarizes the current knowledge of pathways mediating this extracellular calcium entry in neutrophils. Such investigations into the cross-talk between NADPH oxidase and calcium might allow the identification of novel pharmacological targets with clinical use, particularly in inflammatory diseases.

Restoration of impaired free radical generation and proinflammatory cytokines by MCP-1 in mycobacterial pathogenesis

Mycobacterium tuberculosis exerts its pathogenic effects mainly via its cell wall glycolipid called Mannosylated Lipoarabinomannan (Man-LAM), which subverts the cellular inflammatory responses by the suppression of superoxide anion generation in earlier hours, and nitric oxide (NO) generation at later hours of pathogenic invasion. In this paper, we have shown the prophylactic effect of C-C chemokines, both in vitro and in vivo. Exogenous administration of C-C chemokines, particularly monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, led to the induction of superoxide anion generation via the restoration of impaired protein kinase C (PKC) signalling in Man-LAM-treated macrophages. Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 could also potently induce NO generation by upregulation of the proinflammatory cytokines tumour necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-12 from Man-LAM-treated macrophages accompanied by inhibition of anti-inflammatory responses. Our in vivo observations clearly exhibited effective restoration of impaired PKC signalling as well as proinflammatory cytokine expression by MCP-1 in Man-LAM treated as well as M. tuberculosis H37Rv-infected C57BL/6 mice. We also observed, as direct evidence, that MCP-1 induced a significant reduction of the number of viable tubercle bacilli in the lungs and spleen of infected mice. Collectively, our findings strongly suggest the effectiveness of MCP-1 as a potent immunoprophylactic tool for controlling the mycobacterial establishment within the host.

A critical role of protein kinase C delta activation loop phosphorylation in formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine-induced phosphorylation of p47(phox) and rapid activation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase

Generation of superoxide by professional phagocytes is an important mechanism of host defense against bacterial infection. Several protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms have been found to phosphorylate p47(phox), resulting in its membrane translocation and activation of the NADPH oxidase. However, the mechanism by which specific PKC isoforms regulate NADPH oxidase activation remains to be elucidated. In this study, we report that PKCdelta phosphorylation in its activation loop is rapidly induced by fMLF and is essential for its ability to catalyze p47(phox) phosphorylation. Using transfected COS-7 cells expressing gp91(phox), p22(phox), p67(phox), and p47(phox) (COS-phox cells), we found that a functionally active PKCdelta is required for p47(phox) phosphorylation and reconstitution of NADPH oxidase. PKCbetaII cannot replace PKCdelta for this function. Characterization of PKCdelta/PKCbetaII chimeras has led to the identification of the catalytic domain of PKCdelta as a target of regulation by fMLF, which induces a biphasic (30 and 180 s) phosphorylation of Thr(505) in the activation loop of mouse PKCdelta. Mutation of Thr(505) to alanine abolishes the ability of PKCdelta to catalyze p47(phox) phosphorylation in vitro and to reconstitute NADPH oxidase in the transfected COS-phox cells. A correlation between fMLF-induced activation loop phosphorylation and superoxide production is also established in the differentiated PLB-985 human myelomonoblastic cells. We conclude that agonist-induced PKCdelta phosphorylation is a novel mechanism for NADPH oxidase activation. The ability to induce PKCdelta phosphorylation may distinguish a full agonist from a partial agonist for superoxide production.

Benidipine, an anti-hypertensive drug, inhibits reactive oxygen species production in polymorphonuclear leukocytes and oxidative stress in salt-loaded stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats

Oxidative stress is associated with exacerbation of renal injuries in hypertension. In clinical studies benidipine hydrochloride (benidipine), a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker with antioxidant activity, reduced oxidative stress. However, the mechanism of suppression of oxidative stress remains to be fully characterized. Reactive oxygen species production by polymorphonuclear leukocyte plays important pathological roles in hypertension. Therefore, we examined the effects of benidipine both on reactive oxygen species production of human polymorphonuclear leukocytes and oxidative stress of an animal model. Human peripheral polymorphonuclear leukocytes or polymorphonuclear leukocyte-like differentiated HL-60 cells were used to examine effects of benidipine (0.1-30 microM) on formyl-Met-Leu-Phe-induced reactive oxygen species production, calcium mobilization, NADPH oxidase activation and phosphorylation of protein kinase C substrates. High-salt (8% NaCl) loaded stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats were treated with or without benidipine (1, 3, 10 mg/kg/day) for 2 weeks, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, a plasma oxidative stress marker, and renal expression of oxidative stress-induced genes were measured. Benidipine concentration-dependently suppressed formyl-Met-Leu-Phe-induced reactive oxygen species production in polymorphonuclear leukocytes more potently than other calcium channel blockers such as amlodipine, azelnidipine, nitrendipine and nifedipine. Benidipine partially inhibited all of intracellular Ca(2+) elevation, protein kinase C activation and NADPH oxidase activation. Salt loading in stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats augmented plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substances levels; renal dysfunction; and renal expression of transforming growth factor-beta, collagen I and collagen III mRNAs; which were attenuated by benidipine treatment. These results indicate that benidipine prevents the polymorphonuclear leukocyte-derived reactive oxygen species production, which is due at least in part to its antioxidant action and inhibition of Ca(2+)/protein kinase C/NADPH oxidase signaling. The attenuation of reactive oxygen species production might contribute to the drug's reduction of oxidative stress and renal injuries in hypertension.

Selective roles for alpha-PKC in positive signaling for O-(2) generation and calcium mobilization but not elastase release in differentiated HL60 cells

Protein kinase C (PKC) isotypes and Ca2+ mobilization have been implicated in phagocytic cell functions such as O(-)(2) generation. Ca/DG-dependent alpha-PKC and beta-PKC have similar substrate specificities and cofactor requirements in vitro. However it is not known if these isotypes play redundant or unique roles in the intact cell. In the present study, a role for alpha-PKC in positive signaling for fMet-Leu-Phe- and PMA-activated O(-)(2) generation was probed using an siRNA strategy in HL60 cells differentiated to a neutrophilic phenotype (dHL60 cells). A selective decrease in alpha-PKC in dHL60 cells attenuated O(-)(2) generation but not degranulation, and reduced ligand-induced phosphorylation of p47phox as previously shown for beta-PKC. However alpha-PKC, unlike beta-PKC, was a positive regulator of fMet-Leu-Phe-triggered Ca2+ uptake via SOCC (Store Operated Calcium Channels). The ability of a selective SOCC inhibitor, MRS1845, to decrease fMet-Leu-Phe induced Ca2+ uptake and O(-)(2) generation confirmed that Ca2+ uptake via SOCC was required for O(-)(2) generation. These results indicate that alpha-PKC and beta-PKC are required for optimal O(-)(2) generation, but play different roles in Ca2+ signaling for phagocytic responses such as O(-)(2) generation.

Effective attenuation of acute lung injury in vivo and the formyl peptide-induced neutrophil activation in vitro by CYL-26z through the phosphoinositide 3-kinase γ pathway

5-[4-Acridin-9-ylamino]phenyl]-5-methyl-3-methylenedihydrofuran-2-one (CYL-26z) inhibited the polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMNL) infiltration and protein leakage into the lungs in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in mice as determined on the basis of PMNL and protein contents in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and myeloperoxidase (MPO) content in whole lung extracts. CYL-26z also attenuated the formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLP)-induced neutrophil chemotaxis and respiratory burst in vitro (IC(50) 8.4+/-0.9microM and 2.0+/-0.6microM, respectively). CYL-26z had no effect on superoxide anion (O(2)(-)) generation during dihydroxyfumaric acid autoxidation or on the NADPH oxidase activity in two cell-free systems (the arachidonic acid-induced assembly of NADPH oxidase and the preassembled oxidase caused by phorbol ester treatment), whereas it inhibited NaF-induced respiratory burst. Inhibition of respiratory burst by CYL-26z was readily reversible by washing. Only slight, but significant, inhibition of extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation in response to fMLP by CYL-26z up to 30microM was obtained. CYL-26z effectively blocked the formation of phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate (PtdIns(3,4,5)P(3)) as determined by immunofluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry assays and the dual phosphorylation of protein kinase B (PKB/Akt) on S473 and T308 residues in fMLP-stimulated neutrophils. The membrane recruitment of p110gamma and Ras, the Ras activation, and the association between p110gamma and Ras were also attenuated by CYL-26z. These results indicate that the blockade of Ras activation by CYL-26z attenuated the downstream phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) gamma signaling, which is involved in chemoattractant-induced neutrophil chemotaxis and respiratory burst, and may have a beneficial anti-inflammatory effect on ALI.

Regulation of impaired protein kinase C signaling by chemokines in murine macrophages during visceral leishmaniasis

The protein kinase C (PKC) family regulates macrophage function involved in host defense against infection. In the case of Leishmania donovani infection, the impairment of PKC-mediated signaling is one of the crucial events for the establishment of parasite into the macrophages. Earlier reports established that C-C chemokines mediated protection against leishmaniasis via the generation of nitric oxide after 48 h. In this study, we investigated the role of MIP-1alpha and MCP-1 in the regulation of impaired PKC activity in the early hours (6 h) of infection. These chemokines restored Ca2+-dependent PKC activity and inhibited Ca2+-independent atypical PKC activity in L. donovani-infected macrophages under both in vivo and in vitro conditions. Pretreatment of macrophages with chemokines induced superoxide anion generation by activating NADPH oxidase components in infected cells. Chemokine administration in vitro induced the migration of infected macrophages and triggered the production of reactive oxygen species. In vivo treatment with chemokines significantly restricted the parasitic burden in livers as well as in spleens. Collectively, these results indicate a novel regulatory role of C-C chemokines in controlling the intracellular growth and multiplication of L. donovani, thereby demonstrating the antileishmanial properties of C-C chemokines in the disease process.

Impaired NADPH oxidase activity in Rac2-deficient murine neutrophils does not result from defective translocation of p47phox and p67phox and can be rescued by exogenous arachidonic acid

Rac2 is a hematopoietic-specific Rho-GTPase that plays a stimulus-specific role in regulating reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase activation and other functional responses in neutrophils. In this study, rac2-/- neutrophils were shown to have significantly decreased NADPH oxidase activity and actin remodeling in response to exogenous arachidonic acid (AA), as previously observed for phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) or formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLP) as agonists. PMA-, fMLP-, or AA-induced translocation of p47phox and p67phox to the plasma membrane was not impaired in rac2-/- neutrophils. Combined stimulation of rac2-/- neutrophils with exogenous AA and PMA had a synergistic effect on NADPH oxidase activity, and superoxide production increased to a level that was at least as high as wild-type cells and had no effect on fMLP-elicited enzyme activity. Membrane translocation of p47phox and p67phox as well as Rac1 activation was not increased further by combined PMA and AA stimulation. Inhibitor studies were consistent with important roles for phorbol ester-activated protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms and an atypical isoform, PKCzeta, in superoxide production by wild-type and rac2-/- neutrophils stimulated with AA and PMA. In addition, PMA-stimulated release of AA and cytoplasmic phospholipase A2 expression in rac2-/- neutrophils were similar to wild-type, suggesting that deficient AA production by PMA-stimulated rac2-/- neutrophils does not explain the effect of exogenous AA on oxidase activity. Although not required for translocation of p47phox and p67phox, Rac2 is necessary for optimal activity of the assembled oxidase complex, an effect that can be replaced by exogenous AA, which may act directly or via an exogenous AA-induced mediator.

A novel protein kinase C (PKCepsilon) is required for fMet-Leu-Phe-induced activation of NF-kappaB in human peripheral blood monocytes

We have reported that the chemoattractant, fMet-Leu-Phe (fMLP), induces the activation of NF-kappaB in human peripheral blood monocytes and that this requires the activity of small GTPase, RhoA (Huang, S., Chen, L.-Y., Zuraw, B. L., Ye, R. D., and Pan, Z. K. (2001) J. Biol. Chem. 276, 40977-40981). Here we showed that the novel protein kinase C isozyme, PKCepsilon, associates functionally with RhoA in fMLP-stimulated monocytes and that PKCepsilon acted as a signaling component downstream of the GTPase RhoA during fMLP-induced activation of NF-kappaB. Stimulation of monocytes with fMLP resulted in activation of both PKCepsilon and NF-kappaB. This latter activation was largely blocked by specific inhibitors of PKCepsilon by transient expression of a dominant-negative form of PKCepsilon and by PKCepsilon-specific short interfering RNA. These findings demonstrate, for the first time, that fMLP-induced activation of NF-kappaB utilizes a signaling pathway, which requires activity of PKCepsilon, and that PKCepsilon acts as a signaling component downstream of RhoA in cytokine gene transcription stimulated by a chemoattractant. The specificity of this response suggests an important role for the Rho GTPase-PKCepsilon-NF-kappaB pathway in host defense and represents a novel and potentially important mechanism through which fMLP not only attracts leukocytes but may also contribute directly to inflammation.

Chronic exposure to ammonia induces isoform-selective alterations in the intracellular distribution and NMDA receptor-mediated translocation of protein kinase C in cerebellar neurons in culture

Hyperammonemia is responsible for most neurological alterations in patients with hepatic encephalopathy by mechanisms that remain unclear. Hyperammonemia alters phosphorylation of neuronal protein kinase C (PKC) substrates and impairs NMDA receptor-associated signal transduction. The aim of this work was to analyse the effects of hyperammonemia on the amount and intracellular distribution of PKC isoforms and on translocation of each isoform induced by NMDA receptor activation in cerebellar neurons. Chronic hyperammonemia alters differentially the intracellular distribution of PKC isoforms. The amount of all isoforms (except PKC zeta) was reduced (17-50%) in the particulate fraction. The contents of alpha, beta1, and epsilon isoforms decreased similarly in cytosol (65-78%) and membranes (66-83%), whereas gamma, delta, and theta; isoforms increased in cytosol but decreased in membranes, and zeta isoform increased in membranes and decreased in cytosol. Chronic hyperammonemia also affects differentially NMDA-induced translocation of PKC isoforms. NMDA-induced translocation of PKC alpha and beta is prevented by ammonia, whereas PKC gamma, delta, epsilon, or theta; translocation is not affected. Inhibition of phospholipase C did not affect PKC alpha translocation but reduced significantly PKC gamma translocation, indicating that NMDA-induced translocation of PKC alpha is mediated by Ca2+, whereas PKC gamma translocation is mediated by diacylglycerol. Chronic hyperammonemia reduces Ca+2-mediated but not diacylglycerol-mediated translocation of PKC isoforms induced by NMDA.

SELECTIVE ACTIVATION OF PROTEIN KINASE C DELTA IN HUMAN NEUTROPHILS FOLLOWING ISCHEMIA REPERFUSION OF SKELETAL MUSCLE

Circulatory neutrophils are known to be critical mediators of inflammation and oxidative stress during ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury. Recent studies have shown an important role for protein kinase C (PKC) in neutrophil survival and function. Activation of specific isotypes of PKC are known to be involved in membrane alteration and motility, oxidative phosphorylation, and apoptosis modulation of neutrophils. However, the role of PKC in neutrophil responses to I/R in the clinical setting has not been studied. In this study, we examined the neutrophil activation of PKC induced by tourniquet-controlled I/R of skeletal muscle in humans. We found that I/R rapidly activates and translocates PKC delta, but not any of the classical forms of PKC (alpha or beta) from cytosol to the particulate fraction of neutrophils. Particulate translocation of PKC delta is sustained up to 4 h after reperfusion and is associated with kinase activity. Postreperfusion activation of PKC delta in neutrophils signals proapoptosis, but does not cause immediate cell death (as revealed by neutrophil morphology study and DNA-laddering assay). This study indicates that calcium-independent novel PKC delta (nPKC delta) might be predominantly involved in regulating membrane functions and survival of neutrophils associated with post-I/R-induced inflammatory oxidative stress.

Differential inhibition by alpha and epsilonPKC pseudosubstrate sequences: a putative mechanism for preferential PKC activation in neonatal cardiac myocytes

The aims of the current study were: 1) to determine if the epsilonPKC pseudosubstrate peptide (epsilonphi) (NH(2)-RKRQGAVRRRVHQVNG-COOH) could be used as an epsilonPKC-selective inhibitor in neonatal cardiac myocytes (NCMs) and 2) to determine if differences in the alpha and epsilonPKC autoinhibitory pseudosubstrate mechanisms could play roles in alpha and epsilonPKC-selective functions. Introduction of the epsilonphi into NCMs by transient permeabilization modestly attenuated 3 nM 4-beta PMA-induced slowing of contraction rate, an epsilonPKC mediated response (Circ Res. 76:654-663; J. Biol. Chem. 271:24962-24966). In contrast, the alphaPKC pseudosubstrate peptide (alphaphi) (NH(2)-RFARKGALRQKNVHEVK-COOH) was 6- to 10-fold more potent at antagonizing the 3 nM 4-beta PMA-induced slowing of contraction rate. Addition of purified PKC to the particulate cell fraction of NCMs promoted (32)P incorporation into 3 proteins of approximately 18, approximately 46 and approximately 97 kDa. The alphaphi antagonized these phosphorylations with IC(50) values of 1 - 5 microM. These IC(50) values were 1.8 - 4.7-fold lower than those observed for the epsilonphi. In in vitro phosphorylation assays with recombinant alpha or epsilon PKC isozymes the phi failed to inhibit the PKC isozyme as potently as the alphaphi peptide but both the alphaphi and the epsilonphi were equally effective inhibitors of the recombinant alphaPKC isozyme. In addition, in vitro cleavage of the epsilonphi by the protease Arg-C in lysates from NCMs treated with 3 nM 4-beta PMA was greatly enhanced when compared to that of the alphaPKC isozyme. Our studies suggest that the epsilonphi cannot be used as a selective inhibitor of the epsilonPKC isozyme in NCMs and that there are differences in the epsilonPKC and alphaPKC autoinhibitory pseudosubstrate mechanisms.

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.

Protein kinase C is involved in clozapine's facilitation of N-methyl-D-aspartate- and electrically evoked responses in pyramidal cells of the medial prefrontal cortex

We have previously shown that the atypical antipsychotic drug clozapine facilitates N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)- and electrically evoked responses in pyramidal cells of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). In the present study, we investigated the role of protein kinase C (PKC) in the action of clozapine. Bath administration of the PKC activator phorbol-12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), but not the inactive isomer 4alpha-PMA, significantly enhanced the NMDA-evoked inward current and electrically evoked excitatory postsynaptic currents. Chelerythrine, a selective blocker of PKC, completely prevented the potentiating action produced by either clozapine or PMA on these currents in the mPFC cells. Intracellular injection of the PKC inhibitor PKC-I, but not the control substance PKC-S, through the recording electrode totally blocked clozapine's potentiating effect, indicating that a post-synaptic expressed PKC is critically involved in the augmenting action of clozapine on NMDA-evoked currents. Of the PKC inhibitor PKC-I, but not the control substance PKC-S, through the recording electrode totally blocked clozapine's potentiating effect, indicating that a post-synaptic expressed PKC is critically involved in the augmenting action of clozapine on NMDA-evoked currents. To further test the role of PKC in mediating the augmenting action of clozapine, we performed experiments in PKCgamma mutant and wild-type mice. In contrast to results in pyramidal cells from rats or wild-type mice, neither clozapine nor PMA was able to potentiate NMDA-induced currents in the mPFC from the PKCgamma mutant mice. Taken together, these results suggest that the PKC signal transduction pathway is critically involved in the facilitating action of clozapine on the NMDA-induced responses in pyramidal cells of the mPFC.

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.

A role for PKC-delta and PI 3-kinase in TNF-alpha-mediated antiapoptotic signaling in the human neutrophil

The proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha has been implicated in the attenuation of neutrophil spontaneous apoptosis during sepsis. Antiapoptotic signaling is principally mediated through the p60TNF receptor (p60TNFR). In neutrophils, TNF-alpha is an incomplete secretagogue and requires input from a ligated integrin(s) for neutrophil activation. In adherent neutrophils, TNF-alpha triggers association of both protein kinase C (PKC)-delta and phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase with the p60TNFR. In this study, a role for PKC-delta and PI 3-kinase in TNF-alpha-mediated antiapoptotic signaling was examined. TNF-alpha inhibited spontaneous apoptosis in fibronectin-adherent neutrophils, and this antiapoptotic signaling was blocked by the PKC-delta inhibitor rottlerin, but not by an inhibitor of Ca(2+)-dependent PKC isotypes, Go-6976. Inhibition of PI 3-kinase by LY-294002 also inhibited TNF-alpha-mediated antiapoptotic signaling. Cycloheximide blocked TNF-alpha-mediated antiapoptotic signaling, suggesting protein synthesis is required. Inhibition of either PKC-delta or PI 3-kinase attenuated TNF-alpha-mediated activation of the antiapoptotic transcription factor NFkappaB. Thus both PKC-delta and PI 3-kinase have essential roles in TNF-alpha-mediated antiapoptotic signaling in adherent neutrophils.

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.

Regulation of polymorphonuclear leukocyte degranulation and oxidant production by ceramide through inhibition of phospholipase D

Exogenous C(2)-ceramide has been shown to inhibit polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) phagocytosis through inhibition of phospholipase D (PLD) and downstream events, including activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2, leading to the hyphothesis that the sphingomyelinase pathway is involved in termination of phagocytosis. Here it is postulated that increased PLD activity generating phosphatidic acid and diacylglycerol (DAG) is essential for superoxide release and degranulation and that ceramide, previously shown to be generated during PMN activation, inhibits PLD activation, thereby leading to inhibition of PMN function. When PMNs were primed with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and then activated with N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (FMLP), C(2)-ceramide (10 microM) completely inhibited release of superoxide, lactoferrin, and gelatinase; the DAG analog sn-1,2-didecanoylglycerol (DiC10) (10 microM) restored oxidase activation and degranulation in the ceramide-treated cells. Similarly, C(2)-ceramide inhibited oxidase activity and degranulation of PMNs treated with cytochalasin B followed by FMLP, and DiC10 restored function. In contrast, C(2)-ceramide did not inhibit phosphorylation of p47phox or p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, or translocation of p47phox, PLD-containing organelles, adenosine diphosphate-ribosylation factor 1, RhoA, protein kinase C (PKC)-beta or PKC-alpha to the plasma membrane in G-CSF or cytochalasin B-treated, FMLP-activated PMNs. PLD activity increased by 3-fold in G-CSF-primed PMNs stimulated by FMLP and by 30-fold in cytochalasin B-treated PMNs stimulated by FMLP. Both PLD activities were completely inhibited by 10 microM C(2)-ceramide. In conclusion, superoxide, gelatinase, and lactoferrin release require activation of the PLD pathway in primed PMNs and cytochalasin B-treated PMNs. Ceramide may affect protein interactions with PLD in the plasma membrane, thereby attenuating PMN activation.