Glucose transport in the kidney

Glucose transporters and sodium glucose co-transporters cooperatively import glucose into energy-demanding organs in carcinogenic liver fluke Clonorchis sinensis

BACKGROUND

The liver fluke Clonorchis sinensis imports large amounts of glucose to generate energy and metabolic intermediates through glycolysis. We hypothesized that C. sinensis absorbs glucose through glucose transporters and identified four subtypes of glucose transporter (CsGTP) and one sodium glucose co-transporter (CsSGLT) in C. sinensis.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Expressed sequence tags encoding CsGTPs were retrieved from the C. sinensis transcriptome database, and their full-length cDNA sequences were obtained by rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE). The tissue distribution of glucose transporters in C. sinensis adults was determined using immunohistochemical staining. Developmental expression was measured using RT-qPCR. The transport and distribution of glucose into living C. sinensis were monitored using confocal microscopy. Membrane topology and key functional residues of CsGTPs were homologous to their counterparts in animals and humans. CsGTP1, 2, and 4 were transcribed 2.4-5.5 times higher in the adults than metacercariae, while CsGTP3 was transcribed 2.1 times higher in the metacercariae than adults. CsSGLT transcription was 163.6 times higher in adults than in metacercariae. In adults, CsSGLT was most abundant in the tegument; CsGTP3 and CsSGLT were localized in the vitelline gland, uterine wall, eggs, mesenchymal tissue, and testes; CsGTP4 was found in sperm and mesenchymal tissue; and CsGTP1 was mainly in the sperm and testes. In C. sinensis adults, exogenous glucose is imported in a short time and is present mainly in the middle and posterior body, in which the somatic and reproductive organs are located. Of the exogenous glucose, 53.6% was imported through CsSGLT and 46.4% through CsGTPs. Exogenous glucose import was effectively inhibited by cytochalasin B and phlorizin.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

We propose that CsSGLT cooperates with CsGTPs to import exogenous glucose from the environmental bile, transport glucose across mesenchymal tissue cells, and finally supply energy-demanding organs in C. sinensis adults. Studies on glucose transporters may pave the way for the development of new anthelmintic drugs.

Development and potential role of type-2 sodium-glucose transporter inhibitors for management of type 2 diabetes

There is a recognized need for new treatment options for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Recovery of glucose from the glomerular filtrate represents an important mechanism in maintaining glucose homeostasis and represents a novel target for the management of T2DM. Recovery of glucose from the glomerular filtrate is executed principally by the type 2 sodium-glucose cotransporter (SGLT2). Inhibition of SGLT2 promotes glucose excretion and normalizes glycemia in animal models. First reports of specifically designed SGLT2 inhibitors began to appear in the second half of the 1990s. Several candidate SGLT2 inhibitors are currently under development, with four in the later stages of clinical testing. The safety profile of SGLT2 inhibitors is expected to be good, as their target is a highly specific membrane transporter expressed almost exclusively within the renal tubules. One safety concern is that of glycosuria, which could predispose patients to increased urinary tract infections. So far the reported safety profile of SGLT2 inhibitors in clinical studies appears to confirm that the class is well tolerated. Where SGLT2 inhibitors will fit in the current cascade of treatments for T2DM has yet to be established. The expected favorable safety profile and insulin-independent mechanism of action appear to support their use in combination with other antidiabetic drugs. Promotion of glucose excretion introduces the opportunity to clear calories (80-90 g [300-400 calories] of glucose per day) in patients that are generally overweight, and is expected to work synergistically with weight reduction programs. Experience will most likely lead to better understanding of which patients are likely to respond best to SGLT2 inhibitors, and under what circumstances.

Comparison of the transcellular transport of FDG and D-glucose by the kidney epithelial cell line, LLC-PK1

OBJECTIVES

Almost all D-glucose (GLU) filtered through the glomerulus is reabsorbed by the renal proximal tubules, whereas a high portion of 2-[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose [(18F)FDG] is excreted through the urine. However, [18F]FDG is not entirely excreted in the urine suggesting that it may be partially reabsorbed by the proximal tubules. The purpose of this study was to compare the time course of transcellular transport of administered [14C] labeled FDG ([14C]FDG) with that of [14C] labeled GLU ([14C]GLU) using the kidney epithelial cell line, LLC-PK1.

METHODS

Transcellular transport of [14C]FDG and [14C]GLU by LLC-PK1 cells was measured in Na+-containing or Na+-free Dulbecco's phosphate-buffered saline [PBS(+) and PBS(-), respectively] in the presence or absence of phlorizin, phloretin, probenecid, or tetraethylammonium bromide inhibitors that predominantly inhibit sodium-dependent glucose transporters (SGLTs), sodium-independent glucose transporters, organic anion transporters, and organic cation transporters, respectively.

RESULTS

When assayed in PBS(+), less [14C]FDG than [14C]GLU was reabsorbed by the proximal tubular cells over the entire incubation time. Reabsorption of [14C]FDG was mediated mainly by SGLT at early time points in the incubation, whereas high reabsorption of [14C]GLU was mediated by both SGLT and glucose transporter over 90 min of incubation. Secretion of [14C]FDG also tended to be slightly higher than that of [14C]GLU over 90 min of incubation.

CONCLUSION

Transcellular transport of [14C]FDG over time by LLC-PK1 cells was clarified. The polarized distribution of transcellular transporters of [14C]FDG and [14C]GLU in LLC-PK1 cells differs.

Vagotomy attenuates effects of L-glucose but not of D-glucose on spontaneous alternation performance

Two peripheral signaling routes have been proposed to account for the ability of peripheral substances such as glucose to modulate memory processing in the brain. One possible signaling route is by crossing the blood-brain barrier to act directly on brain. A second route involves activation of peripheral nerves with resulting changes in neural activity carried by peripheral nerves to the brain. Because the vagus nerve is a major neural pathway between the periphery and brain, peripherally acting modulators of memory modulators may act via vagal afferents to the brain to enhance memory processing. In the present experiments, systemic injections of either D-glucose or L-glucose, a metabolically inactive enantiomer, facilitated performance of rats on a four-arm alternation task, but at very different doses (D-glucose, 250 mg/kg; L-glucose, 3,000 mg/kg). The enhanced performance seen with L-glucose, but not that seen with D-glucose, was attenuated by vagotomy. These findings suggest that the mechanisms by which these enantiomers act to enhance memory are quite different, with L-glucose acting via vagal afferents but D-glucose acting by other means, including direct modulation of central nervous system (CNS) processes by D-glucose.

Three-dimensional structure of the inclusion complex between phloridzin and beta-cyclodextrin

The inclusion of phloridzin into beta-cyclodextrin was studied as a model of molecular recognition in membranes. Effects on 1H NMR spectra and NOE correlational peaks between phloridzin and beta-cyclodextrin were observed in the complex. Strong NOEs were observed between hydrogens of a phenol group in phloridzin and beta-cyclodextrin. The three-dimensional structure of the inclusion complex between phloridzin and beta-cyclodextrin was simulated with distance constraints estimated by the intensity of NOE peaks using the DADAS90 programs. Two inclusion possibilities were suggested-the large rim of beta-cyclodextrin as an entrance of the inclusion and the small rim of beta-cyclodextrin as the entrance. In both cases, the phenol group of phloridzin was included in the hydrophobic space of beta-cyclodextrin.

Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase mediates inhibitory effect of angiotensin II on sodium/glucose cotransporter in renal epithelial cells

Effects of angiotensin II (ANGII) on regulation of sodium/glucose cotransporter (SGLT1) activity were investigated in LLC-PK(1) cells, renal proximal epithelial cell line. ANGII inhibited alpha-[14C] methyl-D-glucopyranoside (AMG) uptake into LLC-PK(1) cells in a dose-dependent manner. This inhibition was based on a decrease in maximal transport rate (Vmax) of AMG from 2.20 nmol/mg protein/15 min to 1.19 nmol/mg protein/15 min, although apparent affinity constant (Km) did not alter. In western blot analysis, protein level of SGLT1 in brush border membrane (BBM) was decreased by ANGII, although total SGLT1 was not altered. In the aspect of intracellular signal transduction, ANGII blocked the formation of cAMP. Pertussis toxin, an inactivator of Gi protein that control intracellular cAMP level, completely prevented the decrease of AMG uptake caused by ANGII. 8-Br-cAMP, a cell membrane permeable cAMP analogue, increased AMG uptake and protein level of SGLT1 in BBM. Both wortmannin and LY294002 that are phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase inhibitors, inhibited the SGLT1 activity, and also attenuated the effect of 8-Br-cAMP on SGLT1 activity. Those inhibitors prevented the 8-Br-cAMP-induced expression of SGLT1 in plasma membrane. We conclude that ANGII plays an important role in post-translational regulation in SGLT1. Inhibition of SGLT1 translocation is suggested to be caused by inactivation of protein kinase A and decrease of PI 3-kinase activity.

A kinetic mass balance model for 1,5-anhydroglucitol: applications to monitoring of glycemic control

The polyol 1,5-anhydroglucitol (AG) present in human plasma is derived largely from ingestion and is excreted unmetabolized. Reduction of plasma [AG] has been noted in diabetics and is due to accelerated excretion of AG during hyperglycemia. Plasma [AG] has therefore been proposed as a marker for glycemic control. A precise understanding of its utility relies on a quantitative understanding of the mass balance for AG. In this study, non-steady-state data from the literature were analyzed to develop a dynamic mass balance model for AG that is based on the two-compartment model proposed by Yamanouchi et al. [T. Yamanouchi, Y. Tachibana, H. Akanuma, S. Minoda, T. Shinohara, H. Moromizato, H. Miyashita, and I. Akaoka. Am. J. Physiol. 263 (Endocrinol. Metab. 26): E268-E273, 1992]. The data are consistent with a model in which exchange between tissue and plasma pools is rapid and in which the tissue compartment mass is two to three times the mass of the plasma compartment. According to model estimates, accelerated excretion of AG due to hyperglycemia can cause marked net depletion of total AG over a time scale of days. Recovery from a depleted state is slow because the total body capacity represents >5 wk of normal intake. Accordingly, AG monitoring should be able to indicate the presence of past glucosuric hyperglycemic episodes during a period of days to weeks, as well as provide information on the extent to which high deviations from the average plasma glucose concentration are operative.

Hypoxanthine uptake through a purine-selective nucleobase transporter in Trypanosoma brucei brucei procyclic cells is driven by protonmotive force

The mechanism of purine nucleobase transport in procyclic cells of the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei brucei was investigated. Hypoxanthine uptake at 22 degrees C was rapid and saturable, exhibiting an apparent Km of 9.3 +/- 2.0 microM and a Vmax of 4.5 +/- 0.8 pmol x (10(7) cells)(-1) x s(-1). All the natural purine nucleobases tested (Ki 1.8-7.2 microM), as well as the purine analogues oxypurinol and allopurinol, inhibited hypoxanthine influx in a manner consistent with the presence of a single high-affinity carrier. Nucleosides and pyrimidine nucleobases had little or no effect on hypoxanthine influx. The uptake process was independent of extracellular sodium, but inhibited by ionophores inducing cytosolic acidification (carbonyl cyanide chlorophenylhydrazone, nigericin, valinomycin) or membrane depolarisation (gramicidin) as well as by the adenosine triphosphatase inhibitors N-ethylmaleimide and N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide. Using the fluorescent dyes bisoxonol and 2',7'-bis-(carboxyethyl)-5,6-carboxy-fluorescein to determine membrane potential and intracellular pH (pHi), the rate of hypoxanthine uptake was shown to be directly proportional to the protonmotive force. Similarly, under alkaline extracellular conditions hypoxanthine uptake was reversibly inhibited alongside a reduction in protonmotive force. In addition, hypoxanthine accelerated the rate of pH, recovery to pH 7 after base-loading with NH4Cl, indicative of a proton influx concurrent with hypoxanthine transport. Finally, after pretreatment of cells with N-ethylmaleimide, hypoxanthine induced a slow membrane depolarisation, demonstrating that hypoxanthine transport is electrogenic. These data show that hypoxanthine uptake in T. b. brucei procyclic cells is dependent on the protonmotive force, and are consistent with a nucleobase/H+-symporter model for this transporter.

Kinetoplastid glucose transporters

Protozoa of the order kinetoplastida have colonized many habitats, and several species are important parasites of humans. Adaptation to different environments requires an associated adaptation at a cell's interface with its environment, i.e. the plasma membrane. Sugar transport by the kinetoplastida as a phylogenetically related group of organisms offers an exceptional model in which to study the ways by which the carrier proteins involved in this process may evolve to meet differing environmental challenges. Seven genes encoding proteins involved in glucose transport have been cloned from several kinetoplastid species. The transporters all belong to the glucose transporter superfamily exemplified by the mammalian erythrocyte transporter GLUT1. Some species, such as the African trypanosome Trypanosoma brucei, which undergo a life cycle where the parasites are exposed to very different glucose concentrations in the mammalian bloodstream and tsetse-fly midgut, have evolved two different transporters to deal with this fluctuation. Other species, such as the South American trypanosome Trypanosoma cruzi, multiply predominantly in conditions of relative glucose deprivation (intracellularly in the mammalian host, or within the reduviid bug midgut) and have a single, relatively high-affinity type, transporter. All of the kinetoplastid transporters can also transport d-fructose, and are relatively insensitive to the classical inhibitors of GLUT1 transport cytochalasin B and phloretin.

Kinetics of PAPS translocase: evidence for an antiport mechanism

In order to gain an understanding of the mechanisms involved in the transfer of 3'-phosphoadenosine 5'-phosphosulfate (PAPS) from the cytosol where it is synthesized to the Golgi lumen where it serves as the universal sulfate donor for sulfate ester formation in higher organisms, we have undertaken a kinetic characterization of the PAPS translocase from rat liver Golgi. Analyzing the PAS translocase activity in both intact Golgi vesicles and in a reconstituted liposome system, we have determined a number of physical and kinetic parameters. Strong competitive inhibition in zero-trans uptake experiments only with beta-methylene PAPS and adenosine 3',5'-biphosphate (PAP) suggest the transporter is highly specific for the 3'-phosphate. The demonstration of trans acceleration as observed by stimulation of transport activity under exchange conditions suggests that the translocase is a carrier with distinct binding sites accessible from both faces of the membrane. The behavior of the PAPS translocase in the presence of equilibrium concentrations of PAP supports the function of an antiport mechanism. Thus the translocase is characterized by its kinetic properties as a specific transporter of PAPS which acts through an antiport mechanism with PAP as the returning ligand. This characterization of the transport activity has proved instrumental in the identification of an approximate 230 kDa Golgi membrane protein as the PAPS translocase protein [Ozeran, J.D., Westley, J., & Schwartz, N.B. (1996) Biochemistry 35, 3695-3703 (accompanying paper)].

Glucose uptake occurs by facilitated diffusion in procyclic forms of Trypanosoma brucei

The glucose transporter of Trypanosoma brucei procyclic forms was characterized and compared with its bloodstream form counterpart. Measuring the glucose consumption enzymatically, we determined a saturable uptake process of relatively high affinity (Km = 80 microM, Vmax = 4 nmol min-1 10(-8) cells), which showed substrate inhibition at glucose concentrations above 1.5 mM (Ki = 21 mM). Control experiments measuring deoxy-D-[3H]Glc uptake under zero-trans conditions indicated that substrate inhibition occurred on the level of glycolysis. Temperature-dependent kinetics revealed a temperature quotient of Q10 = 2.33 and an activation energy of Ea = 64 kJ mol-1. As shown by trans-stimulation experiments, glucose uptake was stereospecific for the D isomer, whereas L-glucose was not recognized. Inhibitor studies using either the uncoupler carbonylcyanide-4-(trifluoromethoxy)phenylhydrazone (5 microM), the H+/ATPase inhibitor N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (20 microM), the ionophor monensin (1 microM), or the Na+/K+-ATPase inhibitor ouabain (1 mM) showed insignificant effects on transport efficiency. The procyclic glucose transporter was subsequently enriched in a plasma-membrane fraction and functionally reconstituted into proteoliposomes. Using Na+-free conditions in the absence of a proton gradient, the specific activity of D-[14C]glucose transport was determined as 2.9 nmol min-1 (mg protein)-1 at 0.2 mM glucose. From these cumulative results, we conclude that glucose uptake by the procyclic insect form of the parasite occurs by facilitated diffusion, similar to the hexose-transport system expressed in bloodstream forms. However, the markedly higher substrate affinity indicates a differential expression of different transporter isoforms throughout the lifecycle.

Characterization of a sodium-dependent concentrative nucleobase-transport system in guinea-pig kidney cortex brush-border membrane vesicles

The characteristics of hypoxanthine transport were examined in purified brush-border membrane vesicles isolated from guinea-pig kidney. Hypoxanthine uptake in the vesicles was specifically stimulated by both Na+ and an inside-negative potential, resulting in a transient accumulation of intravesicular hypoxanthine. Na(+)-dependent hypoxanthine influx was saturable (apparent Km 4.4 +/- 2.1 microM, Vmax. 128 +/- 29 pmol/min per mg of protein at 100 mM NaCl and 22 degrees C). Guanine, thymine, 5-fluorouracil and uracil inhibited hypoxanthine uptake (Ki values 1-30 microM), but adenine and the nucleosides inosine and thymidine were without effect. Guanine competitively inhibited Na(+)-dependent hypoxanthine influx, suggesting that it was a substrate for the active nucleobase transporter in guinea-pig renal membrane vesicles. A sigmoidal dependence between hypoxanthine influx and Na+ concentration was obtained (KNa 13 +/- 2 mM; Hill coefficient, h, 2.13 +/- 0.14), suggesting that at least two Na+ ions are transported per hypoxanthine molecule. This system differs from the Na(+)-nucleobase carrier in cultured LLC-PK1 renal cells, which has a stoichiometric coupling ratio of 1:1. These results represent the first demonstration of an active electrogenic nucleobase carrier in renal apical membrane vesicles.

Function and presumed molecular structure of Na(+)-D-glucose cotransport systems

Functional characterization of Na(+)-D-glucose cotransport in intestine and kidney indicates the existence of heterogeneous Na(+)-D-glucose cotransport systems. Target size analysis of the transporting unit and model analysis of substrate binding have been performed and proteins have been cloned which mediate (SGLT1) and modulate (RS1) the expression of Na(+)-D-glucose cotransport. The experiments support the hypothesis that functional Na(+)-D-glucose cotransport systems in mammals are composed of two SGLT1-type subunits and may contain one or two RS1-type proteins. SGLT1 contains up to twelve membrane-spanning alpha-helices, whereas RS1 is a hydrophilic extracellular protein which is anchored in the brush-border membrane by a hydrophobic alpha-helix at the C-terminus. SGLT1 alone is able to translocate glucose together with sodium; however, RS1 increases the Vmax of transport expressed by SGLT1. In addition, the biphasic glucose dependence of transport, which is typical for kidney and has been often observed in intestine, was only obtained after coexpression of SGLT1 and RS1.

Effect of KW-3902, a novel adenosine A1 receptor antagonist, on sodium-dependent phosphate and glucose transport by the rat renal proximal tubular cell

KW-3902, 1,3-dipropyl-8-(3-noradamantanyl)xanthine, is a novel potent and selective adenosine A1-receptor antagonist. KW-3902 has been found to cause significant diuresis and natriuresis. To investigate the action of this adenosine A1-receptor antagonist on phosphate transport in renal proximal tubular cells, we studied its effect on the uptake of phosphate by the cultured rat renal proximal tubular cell. KW-3902 significantly inhibited sodium-dependent uptake of phosphate at 10 minutes. The inhibitory effect was dose-dependent with maximum effect achieved at a KW-3902 concentration of 3 x 10(-5) M in the uptake media. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration, IC50, of KW-3902 on phosphate uptake was 2 x 10(-6) M. Dixon plot analysis of the uptake data was consistent with pure non-competitive inhibition. The inhibition constant, Ki, of 6.2 x 10(-6) M for phosphate transport, derived from the Dixon plot, was in close agreement with the IC50 calculated from a semilog dose response curve. Sodium-dependent glucose transport was not affected by KW-3902. These findings reveal that KW-3902 has a direct and specific inhibitory effect on phosphate uptake in renal proximal tubules.

Polarity of transport of 2-deoxy-D-glucose and D-glucose by cultured renal epithelia (LLC-PK1)

At least two types of glucose transporter exist in cultured renal epithelial cells, a Na(+)-glucose cotransporter (SGLT), capable of interacting with D-glucose but not 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2dglc) and a facilitated transporter (GLUT) capable of interacting with both D-glucose and 2dglc. In order to examine the polarity of transport in cultured renal epithelia, 2dglc and D-glucose uptakes were measured in confluent cultures of LLC-PK1 cells grown on collagen-coated filters that permitted access of medium to both sides of the monolayer. The rates of basolateral uptake of both 1 mM glucose (Km 3.6 mM) and 1 mM 2dglc (Km 1.5 mM) were greater than apical uptake rates and the (apical-to-basolateral)/(basolateral-to-apical) flux ratio was high for glucose (9.4) and low for 2dglc (0.8), thus, confirming the lack of interaction of 2dglc with the apical SGLT. Specific glucose transport inhibitor studies using phlorizin, phloretin and cytochalasin B confirmed the polarised distribution of SGLT and GLUT in LLC-PK1 cells. Basolateral sugar uptake could be altered by addition of insulin (1 mU/ml) which increased 2dglc uptake by 72% and glucose uptake by 50% and by addition of 20 mM glucose to the medium during cell culture which decreased 2dglc uptake capacity at confluence by 30%. During growth to confluence, 2dglc uptake increased to a maximum, then decreased at the time of confluence, coincident with a rise in uptake capacity for alpha-methyl-D-glucoside, a hexose that interacts only with the apical SGLT. It was concluded that the non-metabolisable sugar 2dglc was a useful, specific probe for GLUT in LLC-PK1 cells and that GLUT was localised at the basolateral membrane after confluence.

Decreased sodium dependent D-glucose transport across renal brush-border membranes in cis-diamminedichloride platinum induced acute renal failure

Na-coupled D-glucose transport in rabbits with cis-diamminedichloride platinum (CDDP; cisplatin) induced acute renal failure (ARF) has been studied. ARF occurred at 3 days after injection of CDDP (3 mg/kg i.v.). Na-coupled D-glucose transport into brush-border membrane vesicles (BBMV) from both outer cortex (OC) and outer medulla (OM) of ARF rabbits under zero-trans condition was decreased. Increased Km (i.e., decreased affinity of transport carrier for D-glucose) in OC and decreased Vmax (i.e., decreased number of glucose carrier) in OM were observed in CDDP-induced ARF rabbits. Decrease glucose transport was also observed under equilibrium exchange condition. Intravesicular volume of BBMV from OC and OM of ARF rabbits was decreased. In homogenate and BBMV from OC and OM of ARF rabbits, activities of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase and alkaline phosphatase (marker enzymes of brush-border membrane) were decreased. Activities of succinate dehydrogenase, glucose-6-phosphatase, and Na-K ATPase (marker enzymes of mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and basal lateral membrane, respectively) were not affected by CDDP administration. These results suggested that one of the main target sites of CDDP in kidney is brush-border membrane (BBM) along the proximal tubule, that is, not only Na-coupled D-glucose transport carrier protein but also other proteins in BBM.

Glucose transport of Haloferax volcanii requires the Na(+)-electrochemical potential gradient and inhibitors for the mammalian glucose transporter inhibit the transport

The uptake of glucose and its non-metabolizing analogues by Haloferax volcanii, one of the glucose-utilizing Halobacteria, was examined using intact cells and envelope vesicles. Results obtained were: (1) The transport system is inducible. (2) The uptake requires the gradient of Na(+)-electrochemical potential. (3) Inhibitors for mammalian glucose transport also have an effect on this system, implying that the transporters resemble each other. (4) It is suggested that the mobility of the transporter is regulated by the membrane energization.

Specificity of glucose transport in Trypanosoma brucei. Effective inhibition by phloretin and cytochalasin B

Glucose transport in the bloodstream form of the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei was characterized by enzymatically measuring the D-glucose uptake. Uptake kinetics showed a concentration-dependent saturable process, typical for a carrier-mediated transport system, with an apparent Km = 0.49 +/- 0.14 mM and Vmax = 252 +/- 43 nmol.min-1.mg cell protein-1 (equal to 2.25 x 10(8) trypanosomes). The specificity of glucose transport was investigated by inhibitor studies. Glucose uptake was shown to be sodium independent; neither the Na+/K(+)-ATPase inhibitor ouabain (1 mM) nor the ionophor monensin (1 microM) inhibited uptake. Transport was also unaffected by the H(+)-ATPase inhibitor N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD; 20 microM) and the uncoupler carbonylcyanide-4-(trifluoromethoxy)phenylhydrazone (FCCP; 1 microM). However, highly significant inhibition was obtained with both phloretin (82% at 0.13 mM; Ki = 64 microM) and cytochalasin B (77% at 0.3 mM; Ki = 0.44 mM), and partial inhibition with phlorizin (14% at 0.5 mM; Ki = 3.0 mM). In each case, inhibition was noncompetitive, partially reversible (45%) for phloretin and completely reversible for cytochalasin B and phlorizin. Measurement of the temperature-dependent glucose uptake between 25 degrees C and 37 degrees C resulted in a temperature quotient of Q10 = 1.97 +/- 0.02 and an activation energy of Ea = 52.12 +/- 1.00 kJ/mol for glucose uptake. We conclude that glucose uptake in T. brucei bloodstream forms occurs via a facilitated diffusion system, clearly distinguished from the human erythrocyte-type glucose transporter with about a 10-fold higher affinity for glucose and about a 1000-fold decreased sensitivity to the inhibitor cytochalasin B.

Sodium-dependent phosphate and alanine transports but sodium-independent hexose transport in type II alveolar epithelial cells in primary culture

Inorganic phosphate, amino acids and sugars are of obvious importance in lung metabolism. We investigated sodium-coupled transports with these organic and inorganic substrates in type II alveolar epithelial cells from adult rat after one day in culture. Alveolar type II cells actively transported inorganic phosphate and alanine, a neutral amino acid, by sodium-dependent processes. Cellular uptakes of phosphate and alanine were decreased by about 80% by external sodium substitution, inhibited by ouabain (30 and 41%, respectively) and displayed saturable kinetics. Two sodium-phosphate cotransport systems were characterized: a high-affinity one (apparent Km = 18 microM) with a Vmax of 13.5 nmol/mg protein per 10 min and a low-affinity one (apparent Km = 126 microM) with a Vmax of 22.5 nmol/mg protein per 10 min. Alanine transport had an apparent Km of 87.9 microM and a Vmax of 43.5 nmol/mg protein per 10 min. By contrast, cultured alveolar type II cells did not express sodium-dependent hexose transport. Increasing time in culture decreased Vmax values of the two phosphate transport systems on day 4 while sodium-dependent alanine uptake was unchanged. This study demonstrated the existence of sodium-dependent phosphate and amino acid transports in alveolar type II cells similar to those documented in other epithelial cell types. These sodium-coupled transports provide a potent mechanism for phosphate and amino acid absorption and are likely to play a role in substrate availability for cellular metabolism and in regulating the composition of the alveolar subphase. The decrease in phosphate uptake with time in culture is parallel to decrease in surfactant synthesis reported in cultured alveolar type II cells, suggesting that phosphate availability for surfactant synthesis may be accomplished by a sodium-dependent phosphate uptake.

Direct regulation of Na(+)-dependent myo-inositol transport by sugars in retinal pigment epithelium: role of phorbol ester and staurosporin

An Na(+)-dependent active process for myo-inositol (MI) uptake, sharing a common carrier system with glucose and sensitive to phlorizin, was previously established in primary cultures of bovine retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells (26, 32). The present report further examines the nature of glucose-induced inhibition of MI transport in primary cultures of RPE cells. RPE cells were grown in supplemented Dulbecco's modification of Eagle's medium (DMEM) containing 5 mM D-glucose (basic growth media) or 40 mM D-glucose or its nonmetabolizable analogue, alpha-methyl-D-glucoside (alpha MG); 1-5 mM nonradioactive MI, pyruvate, or lactate; or 0.2-20 microM phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (TPA) or straurosporin (modified growth media), for up to 4 weeks. The capacity of RPE cells to accumulate 3H-MI (ratios of intracellular transported radioactive MI, [MI]i, to external free MI concentration, [MI]i/[MI]o) decreased by up to 41% or 34% when cells were grown for 10 days or longer with 40 mM D-glucose or 40 mM alpha MG, respectively, compared to cells grown in basic growth media. The rate of uptake of 3H-MI also was reduced to 63 +/- 15% or 48 +/- 8% of the control values when cells were fed 1 or 5 mM nonradioactive MI, respectively. In addition, cellular capacity to bind to [3H]phlorizin was reduced to 52 +/- 7%, 61 +/- 5%, or 38 +/- 6% of the controls when RPE cells were fed 40 mM D-glucose, 40 mM alpha MG, or 5 mM nonradioactive MI, respectively. Growth media containing either pyruvate or lactate, the glucose metabolites, did not suppress the ability of RPE cells to accumulate MI. An 18 +/- 8% reduction in [3H]thymidine incorporation into DNA occurred when cells were grown in 40 mM glucose for 12-14 days, compared to cells grown with 5 mM glucose. Chronic treatment (12-14 days) of the cells with phorbol ester, an activator of protein kinase C, caused up to twofold increase in MI uptake, [3H]phlorizin binding, cell number, and DNA synthesis. However, when the rates of MI uptake into cells grown in basic growth media or TPA-treated media were normalized to cell number, no significant difference in MI uptake was found between the treated and untreated cells. Addition of staurosporin, a protein kinase C inhibitor, together with TPA, in the growth media reversed the phorbol-induced increase of MI uptake.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Isolation and characterization of Chinese hamster ovary cell mutants defective in glucose transport

Cultured Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells possess an insulin-sensitive facilitated diffusion system for glucose transport. Mutant clones of CHO cells defective in glucose transport were obtained by repeating the selection procedure, which involved mutagenesis with ethyl methanesulfonate, radiation suicide with tritiated 2-deoxy-D-glucose, the polyester replica technique and in situ autoradiographic assaying for glucose accumulation. On the first selection, we obtained mutants exhibiting about half the glucose uptake activity of parental CHO-K1 cells and half the amount of a glucose transporter, the amount of which was determined by immunoblotting with an antibody to the human erythrocyte glucose transporter. The second selection, starting from one of the mutants obtained in the first-step selection, yielded a strain, GTS-31, in which both glucose uptake activity and the quantity of the glucose transporter were 10-20% of the levels in CHO-K1 cells, whereas the responsiveness of glucose transport to insulin, and the activities of leucine uptake and several glycolytic enzymes remained unchanged. GTS-31 cells grew slower than CHO-K1 cells at both 33 and 40 degrees C, and in a medium containing a low concentration of glucose (0.1 mM), the mutant cells lost the ability to form colonies. All the three spontaneous GTS-31 cell revertants, which were isolated by growing the mutant cells in medium containing 0.1 mM glucose, exhibited about half the glucose uptake activity and about half the amount of glucose transporter, as compared to in CHO-K1 cells, these characteristics being similar to those of the first-step mutant. These results indicate that the decrease in glucose uptake activity in strain GTS-31 is due to a mutation which induces a reduction in the amount of the glucose transporter, providing genetic evidence that the glucose transporter functions as a major route for glucose entry into CHO-K1 cells.

Decreased D-glucose transport across renal brush-border membrane vesicles from streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

The uptake of Na(+)-dependent D-glucose by renal brush-border membrane vesicles (BBMV) isolated from streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats was decreased as compared with controls. Since a Vmax of 4.8 nmol/mg protein per 30 s in diabetic BBMV was significantly decreased as compared with that of controls (Vmax = 7.0 nmol/mg protein per 30 s) without changing an apparent affinity for D-glucose, the decrease in the Na(+)-dependent D-glucose uptake in diabetic rats is likely to be due to the reduction in the number of the transporter. These results are also confirmed by the binding study of [3H]phlorizin to diabetic BBMV. When the blood glucose level is lowered in diabetic rats by both the treatment with insulin and starvation, the decreased Na(+)-dependent D-glucose uptake is returned to control level. These results suggest that Na(+)-dependent D-glucose reabsorption through the apical membrane in proximal tubular kidney cells is dynamically regulated by the change in blood glucose level.

Renal proximal tubular cells in suspension or in primary culture as in vitro models to study nephrotoxicity

The kidney forms a frequent target for xenobiotic toxicity. The complex biochemical mechanisms underlying nephrotoxicity are best studied in vitro provided that reliable and relevant in vitro models are available. Since most nephrotoxicants affect primarily the cells of the proximal tubules (PTC), much effort has been directed towards the development of in vitro models of PTC. This review focuses on the preparation of PTC and the use of these cells. Discussed are important criteria such as the viability (survival time) of the cells and the parameters to assess toxicity. Recent studies have shown that isolated PTC in suspension are especially suitable for studies on the biochemical mechanisms of 'acute' nephrotoxicity, whereas PTC in primary culture may be used to investigate mechanisms of nephrotoxic damage at very low concentrations, upon prolonged exposure. PTC cultured on porous filter membranes provide new possibilities to study toxicity in relation to cell and transport polarity. Primary cell cultures of human PTC have been set up. Although a further characterization of these systems is needed, recent data indicate their usefulness.

Different pattern of differentiation in two LLC-PK1 clones

Two clones (LD3 and LC3) were isolated from the established renal cell line LLC-PK1. They differed with respect to the development of the Na+-dependent alpha-methyl-D-glucoside (AMG) uptake. The higher uptake capacity in LD3 as compared to LC3 was owing to the expression of a higher number of carrier molecules as was shown by the specific phlorizin binding. The intracellular cyclic AMP level, the D-glucose concentration in the growth medium and the cell density could be excluded as the causes of the difference between both clones. We found that the faster development of the Na+-dependent hexose carrier in LD3 was parallelled by a faster expression of trehalase in this clone. This suggests that the expression of both apical proteins is correlated. From the growth curves it was concluded that renewal of the undifferentiated population was roughly the same in both clones. The recruitment of cells from the undifferentiated to the growth arrested state seems also very similar as was deduced from the development of tight junctions and from the down-regulation of the alpha-methylaminoisobutyric acid (meAIB) uptake. The start of differentiation was identical as was shown by the similar rate of expression found for gamma-glutamyl transferase. The difference between both clones is most likely situated at the traverse to a fully differentiated cell. This process takes more time in LC3 than in LD3. Also the fully differentiated state seemed to be different in both clones. We conclude that the pattern of differentiated characteristics found in both clones is different and a model incorporating these differences is presented.

Characteristics of sorbitol uptake in rat glial primary cultures

Uptake of [U-14C]sorbitol was studied in astrogliarich rat primary cultures. Initial rate of sorbitol uptake is proportional to sorbitol concentration between 20 microM and 400 mM. Sorbitol transport is not inhibited by glucose, fructose, and a variety of structurally related polyols, or by cytochalasin B, an inhibitor of glucose transport. Phloretin, phlorizin, filipin, and n-hexanol, all compounds that alter the properties of biological membranes, and the sulfhydryl reagent p-chloromercuribenzoate inhibit sorbitol uptake to various degrees. Variation in the concentrations of extracellular Na+ and K+ does not affect transfer of sorbitol across the cell membrane. It is concluded that sorbitol is taken up into glial cells by a diffusion process, not involving a carrier and probably not through the lipid bilayer, but through a proteinaceous channel-like structure.

Hexose transport in human myoblasts

The present investigation reports on the hexose transport properties of human myoblasts isolated from normal subjects and from patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Similar to rat myoblast L6, normal human myoblasts possess a high- (HAHT) and a low- (LAHT) affinity hexose transport system. The non-metabolizable hexose analogue, 2-deoxyglucose, is preferentially taken up by HAHT. The transport of this analogue is the rate-limiting step in the uptake process. This human myoblast HAHT is also similar to that of the rat myoblast in its substrate specificity and in response to the energy uncouplers, cytochalasin B and phloretin. The human myoblast LAHT resembles that of rat myoblast in its insensitivity to energy uncouplers, and in its transport affinity and capacity for 3-O-methyl-D-glucose. Although DMD myoblasts resemble their normal counterpart in their ability to differentiate, they differ significantly in their hexose transport properties. In addition to HAHT and LAHT present in normal human myoblast, DMD myoblasts contain a super-high-affinity hexose transport system (SHAHT). SHAHT can be detected only at very low substrate concentrations. It differs from HAHT not only in its much higher transport affinity, but also in its response to the traditional hexose transport inhibitors. For example, SHAHT can be activated by cytochalasin B and phlorizin, whereas it is more sensitive to inhibition by phloretin. Unlike HAHT, energy uncouplers are found to be ineffective in inhibiting SHAHT. It should be mentioned that SHAHT cannot be detected in myoblasts isolated from patients with other types of myopathy. The present study serves to demonstrate that more than one hexose transport system is operating in human skeletal muscle cells, as found in other cell types.

Characteristics of Na+-dependent hexose transport in OK, an established renal epithelial cell line

The characteristics of Na+-dependent hexose uptake were determined for monolayers of OK, an established renal epithelial cell line derived from an opossum kidney. A comparison is made with other cultured cells, particularly LLC-PK1. The capacity to accumulate alpha-methyl D-glucoside (AMG) in OK cells develops with time, reaching a maximum level of 18 nmol/mg protein per h, 3 days after confluency. In contrast to LLC-PK1, this level is not influenced by the medium D-glucose concentration. AMG uptake in OK cells was characterized by an apparent Km of 2.9 mM and a Vmax of 17.1 nmol/mg protein per min. For Na+-dependent phlorisin binding, a KD of 0.025 microM and a Bmax of 1.5 pmol/mg protein were found. A turnover frequency of 158/s was derived from our data. The hexose carrier of OK shares with the carrier of LLC-PK1 a high level of expression, its substrate specificity and turnover frequency. It differs however with respect to the substrate binding site. The affinity for AMG and D-glucose is 3- and 10-fold lower, whereas the affinity for phlorizin is 3-times higher in OK than in LLC-PK1. The Na+ dependence of AMG uptake was also different for both cell lines and suggested for OK cells a 1:1, Na+:substrate stoichiometry. In OK cells, the phlorizin-sensitive uptake rate of D-glucose is much lower than the one for AMG. Nevertheless, D-glucose interacts with the AMG binding site in a competitive way and with an affinity similar to AMG. This could indicate a malfunction of the carrier with D-glucose as a substrate at the level of the translocation step.

Sodium butyrate increases glucose transporter expression in LLC-PK1 cells

The effect of sodium butyrate on the expression of the facilitated glucose transporter (GT) was investigated in the pig kidney cell line LLC-PK1. When cells were treated with butyrate, GT mRNA expression was remarkably enhanced with a maximal effect at 5 mM. Levels of GT mRNA were increased at 1 day after butyrate treatment and continued to increase for at least 4 days; however, acetate and propionate did not affect GT mRNA levels significantly. The induction of GT mRNA by butyrate was accompanied by an increase in GT function. The expression of GT mRNA decreased in HepG2, HT-29, and COS cells by treatment with butyrate for 1 day. Interestingly, glucose deprivation of LLC-PK1 cells reduced the induction of GT mRNA by butyrate, although starvation itself slightly enhanced steady-state GT mRNA levels. Therefore, expression of GT in LLC-PK1 cells is strongly induced by butyrate by a pathway that apparently depends on the presence of glucose in culture medium.

Radiation-inactivation studies on brush-border-membrane vesicles. General considerations, and application to the glucose and phosphate carriers

Radiation-inactivation studies were performed on brush-border-membrane vesicles purified from rat kidney cortex. No alteration of the structural integrity of the vesicles was apparent in electron micrographs of irradiated and unirradiated vesicles. The size distributions of the vesicles were also similar for both populations. The molecular sizes of two-brush-border-membrane enzymes, alkaline phosphatase and 5'-nucleotidase, estimated by the radiation-inactivation technique, were 104800 +/- 3500 and 89,400 +/- 1800 Da respectively. Polyacrylamide-gel-electrophoresis patterns of membrane proteins remained unaltered by the radiation treatment, except in the region of higher-molecular-mass proteins, where destruction of the proteins was visible. The molecular size of two of these proteins was estimated from their mobilities in polyacrylamide gels and was similar to the target size, estimated from densitometric scanning of the gel. Intravesicular volume, estimated by the uptake of D-glucose at equilibrium, was unaffected by irradiation. Uptake of Na+, D-glucose and phosphate were measured in initial-rate conditions to avoid artifacts arising from a decrease in the driving force caused by a modification of membrane permeability. Na+-independent D-glucose and phosphate uptakes were totally unaffected in the dose range used (0-9 Mrad). The Na+-dependent uptake of D-glucose was studied in irradiated vesicles, and the molecular size of the transporter was found to be 288,000 Da. The size of the Na+-dependent phosphate carrier was also estimated, and a value of 234,000 Da was obtained.

Purification of brush border membrane vesicles from horse kidney cortex using Percoll

A rapid method for preparation of brush border membrane vesicles from a large amount of horse kidney cortex is described. Self-orienting Percoll-gradient centrifugation minimized contamination by microsomal membranes. The characteristics of this preparation were checked by electron microscopy and measurement of L-alanine uptake.

Characterization of glucose transport in an insulin-secreting cell line

The rat insulinoma-derived RINm5F cell line retains many differentiated functions of islet beta-cells. However, it fails to recognize glucose as an insulin secretagogue in the physiological concentration range. With this cell line, glucose-transport kinetics were investigated, by using a double-label technique with the non-metabolizable glucose analogue 3-O-methylglucose (OMG). RINm5F cells possess a passive glucose-transport system with high capacity and low affinity. Equilibration across the plasma membrane of extracellular OMG concentrations up to at least 20 mM is achieved within 2 min at 37 degrees C. The half-saturation of OMG uptake occurs at 32 mM. At lower temperatures OMG uptake is markedly retarded, with a temperature coefficient (Q10) of 2.9. As indicated by efflux measurements, transport is symmetrical. Cytochalasin B at micromolar concentrations and phlorrhizin in millimolar concentrations are potent inhibitors of OMG uptake. Neutralization of the secreted insulin with antibodies does not alter OMG uptake kinetics. The glucose metabolism of RINm5F cells is much exaggerated compared with that of islet beta-cells. Nonetheless, when measured in parallel to uptake, transport exceeds by far the rate of metabolism at glucose concentrations above 3 mM. Measurements of intracellular D-glucose reveal a lower intracellular glucose concentration relative to the extracellular in RINm5F cells. This seems to be due to abnormalities in the subsequent steps of glucose metabolism, rather than to abnormalities in hexose uptake. The loss of glucose-induced insulin release in RINm5F cells cannot be explained by alterations in hexose transport.

Characteristics of cultured human renal cortical epithelia

Nine human kidney epithelial cell lines, isolated from small biopsied material and from whole kidney, were propagated in both a hormonally defined medium and a medium supplemented with serum. At confluency, hemicysts or domes, typical of cultured epithelial cells, were formed by these cells. Monolayers had junctional complexes between cells and the presence of numerous microvilli on the cell surface. Parathyroid hormone markedly stimulated these cells to produce cyclic AMP. They also contained high levels of gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase, leucine aminopeptidase, and maltase, enzymes that are associated with the brush-border membrane of the proximal tubule. The cultured cells demonstrated the ability to transport amino acids and alpha-methylglucoside, a substrate actively transported only by the proximal tubule in the kidney. Based on these findings, the cultured cells reflected a number of characteristics associated with the proximal tubule. These renal epithelial cell lines may provide a useful model for studying various aspects of human renal physiology and biochemistry.

Active transport of myo-inositol in rat pancreatic islets

myo-Inositol transport by isolated pancreatic islets was measured with a dual isotope technique. Uptake was saturable with a half-maximal response at approx. 75 microM. With 50 microM-inositol, uptake was linear for at least 2 h during which time the free intracellular concentration rose to double that of the incubation medium. Inositol transport is therefore active and probably energized by electrogenic co-transport of Na+ down its concentration gradient as uptake was inhibited by ouabain, Na+ removal or depolarizing K+ concentrations. Inositol transport was abolished by cytochalasin B which binds to hexose carriers, but not by carbamoylcholine or Li+ which respectively stimulate or inhibit phosphoinositide turnover. Uptake of inositol was not affected by 3-O-methylglucose or L-glucose (both 100 mM) nor by physiological concentrations of D-glucose. The results suggest that most intracellular inositol in pancreatic islets would be derived from the extracellular medium. Since the transport mechanism is distinct from that of glucose, inositol uptake would not be inhibited during periods of hyperglycaemia.

Non-competitive inhibition of myo-inositol transport in cultured bovine retinal capillary pericytes by glucose and reversal by Sorbinil

myo-Inositol transport by retinal capillary pericytes in culture was characterized. The major myo-inositol transport process was sodium-dependent, ouabain-sensitive, and saturable at 40 mM, indicating a carrier-mediated process. The sodium ion concentration required to produce one-half the maximal rate of myo-inositol uptake ([Na+]0.5) did not show dependence on the external myo-inositol concentration (22.3 mM sodium for 0.005 mM myo-inositol; 18.2 mM sodium for 0.05 mM myo-inositol). myo-Inositol transport was an energy-dependent, active process functioning against a myo-inositol concentration gradient. The kinetics of the sodium-dependent system fitted a 'velocity type' co-transport model where binding of sodium ion to the carrier increased the velocity (Vmax 28 to 313 pmol myo-inositol/micrograms DNA per 20 min when [Na+] varied from 9 to 150 mM) but not the affinity for myo-inositol (Km 0.92 to 0.83 mM when [Na+] varied from 9 to 150 mM). Metabolizable hexoses (D-glucose or D-galactose; greater than 5 mM) inhibited myo-inositol uptake. Dixon-plot analysis indicated that the inhibition was non-competitive with a Ki of 22.7 mM for D-glucose and 72.6 mM for D-galactose. The inhibition was significantly reversed by Sorbinil (0.1 mM), an aldose reductase inhibitor. In contrast, high concentrations of non-metabolizable hexoses (L-glucose, 3-O-methyl-D-glucose), or partially metabolizable 2-deoxy-D-glucose, did not significantly inhibit myo-inositol uptake. The inhibitory effect of D-glucose or D-galactose on myo-inositol transport appeared to be related to glucose or galactose metabolism via the polyol pathway.

Characteristics of D-galactose transport systems by luminal membrane vesicles from rabbit kidney

The characteristics of renal transport of D-galactose by luminal membrane vesicles from either whole cortex, pars recta or pars convoluta of rabbit proximal tubule were investigated by a spectrophotometric method using a potential-sensitive carbocyanine dye. Uptake of D-galactose by luminal membrane vesicles prepared from whole cortex was carried out by an Na+-dependent and electrogenic process. Eadie-Hofstee analysis of saturation-kinetic data suggested the presence of multiple transport systems in vesicles from whole cortex for the uptake of D-galactose. Tubular localization of the transport systems was studied by the use of vesicles derived from pars recta and pars convoluta. In pars recta, Na+-dependent transport of D-galactose and D-glucose occurred by means of a high-affinity system (half-saturation: D-galactose, 0.15 +/- 0.02 mM; D-glucose, 0.13 +/- 0.02 mM). These results indicated that the "carrier' responsible for the uptake of these hexoses does not discriminate between the steric position of the C-4 hydroxyl group of these two isomers. This is further confirmed by competition experiments, which showed that D-galactose and D-glucose are taken up by the same and equal affinity transport system by these vesicle preparations. Uptake of D-galactose and D-glucose by luminal membrane vesicles isolated from pars convoluta was mediated by a low-affinity common transport system (half-saturation: D-galactose, 15 +/- 2 mM; D-glucose, 2.5 +/- 0.5 mM). These findings strongly suggested that the "carrier' involved in the transport of monosaccharides in vesicles from pars convoluta is specific for the steric position of the C-4 hydroxyl group of these sugars and presumably interacts only with D-glucose at normal physiological concentration.

Hexose transport in L6 rat myoblasts. I. Rate-limiting step, kinetic properties, and evidence for two systems

The hexose transport system of undifferentiated L6 rat myoblasts was investigated. 2-Deoxy-D-glucose (2-DOG) and 2-deoxy-2-fluoro-D-glucose (2FG) were used as analogues to investigate the rate-limiting step of hexose uptake into the cell. Virtually all of the 2-DOG or 2FG taken up into the cell was found to be in the phosphorylated form. No significant pool of intracellular free sugar could be detected. This demonstrates that hexose transport, not phosphorylation, is the rate-limiting step. The inhibitory effect of various glucose analogues on 2-DOG and 3-O-methyl-D-glucose (3-OMG) uptake revealed that these two sugars may be taken up into the cell by different carriers. In addition, kinetics analysis of the transport of both sugars also indicates that two hexose transport systems may be present in L6 cells. 2-DOG is transported by high and low affinity transport systems (Km 0.6 mM and 2.9 mM, respectively), whereas 3-OMG is transported by a low affinity system (Km 3.5 mM). Treatment of cells with ionophores or energy uncouplers results in inactivation of the high affinity system, but not the low affinity system.

Isolation and characterization of hexose transport mutants in L6 rat myoblasts

A method for the selection and isolation of hexose transport mutants in undifferentiated rat myoblast L6 cells is reported; 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DOG)-and 2-deoxy-2-fluoro-D-glucose (2FG)-resistant mutants were selected after mutagenization of L6 cells with ethyl methanesulfonate. Of these, D18 and D23 (selected with 0.1 mM 2-DOG) and F72 and F76 (selected with 0.1 mM 2FG) exhibited the lowest hexose transport activity. Uptake of 0.06 mM 2-DOG, 2FG, or 3-O-methyl-D-glucose (3-OMG) by mutants grown in fructose medium supplemented with 0.05 mM 2FG was about four- to five-fold lower than the parental L6 cells. These mutants contain normal levels of ATP and glycolytic enzyme activities. They also exhibit normal transport activities for alpha-aminoisobutyric acid and fructose. Furthermore, hexose transport was observed to be decreased in plasma membrane vesicles prepared from these mutants. Kinetic analysis of 2-DOG and 3-OMG transport in mutant F72 demonstrated that the Vmax for 2-DOG uptake was significantly reduced, whereas the Vmax for 3-OMG transport was not affected. In all cases, the affinity for these hexose analogues was unaffected. In addition mutant F72 was found to be only slightly affected by treatment with various energy inhibitors and sulfhydryl reagents. The results suggest that this mutant is defective in, or has low levels of, a plasma membrane component(s) involved in the high-affinity hexose transport system.

Distinction of three types of D-glucose transport systems in animal cells

Immunoblotting of plasma membrane fractions from rat kidney cortex with antibody to human erythrocyte glucose transporter showed a single major cross-reacting material of 48K in basolateral membrane fractions possessing a facilitated diffusion system for D-glucose, but not in brush border membrane fractions which have a Na-dependent active transport system. Cytochalasin B inhibited D-glucose uptake in basolateral membrane vesicles but not in brush border vesicles. Cross-reacting materials of 44-55K were detected in several animal cells exhibiting facilitated diffusion systems, including a hormone dependent system. These results indicate molecular difference between glucose transporters of facilitated diffusion systems and active transport systems.

Protonmotive force-driven active transport of D-glucose and L-proline in the protozoan parasite Leishmania donovani

Midlogarithmic phase Leishmania donovani promastigotes accumulate 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-dGlc) and L-proline, maintaining concentration gradient factors across the surface membrane of 78.7 and 60, respectively. Cyanide (1 mM) and iodoacetate (0.5 mM) inhibited the transport of both substrates. L-proline uptake was also inhibited by 2-dGlc (10 mM). Transport of neither substrate was affected by Na+, phlorizin, or ouabain, indicating the sodium-independent transport of both systems. However, N',N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD; 20 microM) significantly inhibited the transport of both 2-dGlc and L-proline (70% and 90%, respectively). The ionophores valinomycin (1 microM) and nigericin (5 microM) each partially inhibited the uptake of both substrates. In parallel experiments, nigericin and valinomycin were added concomitantly to promastigotes, each at a concentration that individually inhibited the transport of 2-dGlc and L-proline by less than 30%. Under such conditions, the transport of 2-dGlc and L-proline was inhibited by 69% and 78%, respectively. However, these ionophores had no significant effect on the promastigotes cellular ATP level. Carbonylcyanide p-(trifluoromethoxy)phenylhydrazone (FCCP; 1 microM) inhibited 2-dGlc (79%) and L-proline (85%) transport, whereas ATP levels of such cells were diminished by only 20%. Symport of D-glucose/H+ and L-proline/H+ was measured directly in cells pretreated with KCN and DCCD. Upon addition of D-glucose to such cells, a rapid movement of protons into the organisms occurred and was reversed upon addition of FCCP. Conversely, no proton movement was observed when L-glucose was added to such cells. L-proline, as D-glucose, caused a rapid influx of protons into the promastigotes, indicating that both substrates were cotransported with protons. We conclude that transport of D-glucose and L-proline in L. donovani promastigotes is protonmotive force-driven and is coupled to both delta pH and delta psi.

Linear relationship of phlorizin-binding capacity and hexose uptake during differentiation in a clone of LLC-PK1 cells

With a clone of (Cl 4) of LLC-PK cells, which develop a high capacity for Na+-dependent hexose uptake over time (days) in culture, we show that increasing uptake capacity is paralleled by an increase in the number of phlorizin-binding sites in the population. The linear relationship between binding and hexose transport is the same whether the cells differentiate spontaneously or are induced by either methylisobutylxanthine or hexamethylene bisacetamide. The constancy of the relationship suggests that the primary factor in transport development is the number of transporters in the cells rather than other possible factors like a change in membrane potential or decreased efflux. The Kd for phlorizin binding is .08 +/- .04 microM, and corresponds to Ki of 0.10 microM for transport inhibition. The turnover number of the transporter is estimated to be 170 +/- 40 molecules per second of alpha-methyl glucoside.

Effects of inorganic lead in vitro on ion exchanges and respiratory metabolism of rat kidney cortex

The effects of Pb2+ added in vitro to tissue slices, isolated tubules and isolated mitochondria of rat kidney cortex have been studied. Slices were depleted of K+ and loaded with Na+, Cl- and water by pre-incubation at 1 degree C, and reversal of these changes was then induced by incubation under metabolically favourable conditions. The net reaccumulation of K+ was reduced by a maximum of 30% when Pb2+ was present in the medium, the maximal effect being caused by 200 microM Pb2+. Lead also caused a reduction of Na+ extrusion which was approximately equimolar with its effect on K+, but it did not affect the extrusion of Cl- and water. The initial rates of the net, active movements of K+ and Na+ were not altered by Pb2+, divergence from control values only being noted after 15-30 min incubation. The O2 consumption and the ATP content were 25-30% lower in slices incubated with 200 microM Pb2+ than in control slices; the effect on ATP content was not observed until incubation had continued for 30 min. In tubules isolated from the renal cortex, the rate of respiration (50%) and ATP content (30%) were also partly reduced by 200 microM Pb2+. The consumption of O2 by mitochondria isolated from the cortex was much more sensitive to Pb2+ added in vitro than the respiration of intact cells; the rate of respiration in state 3 (presence of phosphate acceptor) and the respiratory control ratio were drastically reduced, with half-maximal inhibition at 30 and 20 microM Pb2+ respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Renal trehalase: two subsites at the substrate-binding site

Phlorizin, phloretin, Tris and beta-methylglucoside are competitive inhibitors, with respect to the substrate trehalose, of purified renal trehalase. Mercuric chloride is a noncompetitive inhibitor. The active site of trehalase was examined further by multi-inhibition kinetic studies involving combinations of inhibitors. Phlorizin vs. phloretin and phlorizin vs. Tris were mutually non-competitive. In contrast, phloretin vs. Tris was mutually competitive. These findings suggest that the binding site of phlorizin to the enzyme differed from that of phloretin or Tris, and that phloretin and Tris might bind at a common site. These findings suggest a model in which trehalase has two binding sites at the substrate-binding site, a phlorizin (glucosyl) and a phloretin (phenyl) binding site, analogous to the model proposed previously for the glucose carrier. In addition, mercuric chloride vs. beta-methylglucoside was mutually competitive, although mercuric chloride and beta-methylglucoside, respectively, were noncompetitive and competitive inhibitors with respect to the substrate. Thus, it is suggested that the substrate binding and the SH-inhibitor binding sites are located very close to each other.