Differing shapes of 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 function as ligands for the D-binding protein, nuclear receptor and membrane receptor: a status report

Characterization of Rickets Type II Model Rats to Reveal Functions of Vitamin D and Vitamin D Receptor

Vitamin D has been known to exert a wide range of physiological effects, including calcemic, osteogenic, anticancer, and immune responses. We previously generated genetically modified (GM) rats and performed a comparative analysis of their physiological properties to elucidate the roles of vitamin D and vitamin D receptor (VDR). In this study, our primary goal was to investigate the manifestations of type II rickets in rats with the VDR(H301Q) mutation, analogous to the human VDR(H305Q). Additionally, we created a double-mutant rat with the VDR(R270L/H301Q) mutation, resulting in almost no affinity for 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3 (1,25D3) or 25-hydroxy-vitamin D3 (25D3). Notably, the plasma calcium concentration in Vdr(R270L/H301Q) rats was significantly lower than in wild-type (WT) rats. Meanwhile, Vdr(H301Q) rats had calcium concentrations falling between those of Vdr(R270L/H301Q) and WT rats. GM rats exhibited markedly elevated plasma parathyroid hormone and 1,25D3 levels compared to those of WT rats. An analysis of bone mineral density in the cortical bone of the femur in both GM rats revealed significantly lower values than in WT rats. Conversely, the bone mineral density in the trabecular bone was notably higher, indicating abnormal bone formation. This abnormal bone formation was more pronounced in Vdr(R270L/H301Q) rats than in Vdr(H301Q) rats, highlighting the critical role of the VDR-dependent function of 1,25D3 in bone formation. In contrast, neither Vdr(H301Q) nor Vdr(R270L/H301Q) rats exhibited symptoms of alopecia or cyst formation in the skin, which were observed in the Vdr-KO rats. These findings strongly suggest that unliganded VDR is crucial for maintaining the hair cycle and normal skin. Our GM rats hold significant promise for comprehensive analyses of vitamin D and VDR functions in future research.

Piscine Vitamin D Receptors Vdra/Vdrb in the Absence of Vitamin D Are Utilized by Grass Carp Reovirus for Promoting Viral Replication

The vitamin D receptor (VDR) plays a pivotal role in the biological actions of vitamin D (VitD). However, little is known about the functions of VDR in the production of viral inclusion bodies (VIBs). Using a representative strain of grass carp reovirus (GCRV) genotype I, GCRV-873, we show that GCRV-873 recruits grass carp Vdrs for promoting the production of VIBs in the absence of VitD. Inhibition of cholesterol synthesis by lovastatin impairs the production of VIBs and blocks the effects of grass carp Vdrs in promoting the production of VIBs in the absence of VitD. Furthermore, grass carp Vdrs are found to form the Vdra-Vdrb heterodimer, which is vital for 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (hmgcr)-dependent cholesterol synthesis and GCRV replication. Intriguingly in the presence of VitD, grass carp Vdra but not Vdrb forms the heterodimer with the retinoid X receptor beta b (Rxrbb), which induces the transcription of those genes involved in the RIG-I-like receptor (RLR) antiviral signaling pathway for inhibiting GCRV infection. Furthermore, the VitD-activated Vdra-Vdrb heterodimer attenuates the transcription of the RLR antiviral signaling pathway induced by VitD. In the presence of VitD, a balance between the Vdra-Rxrbb heterodimers as coactivators and Vdra-Vdrb heterodimers as corepressors in affecting the transcriptional regulation of the RLR antiviral signaling pathway may eventually determine the outcome of GCRV infection. Transfection with VitD can abolish the effect of grass carp Vdrs in promoting GCRV replication in a dose-dependent manner. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that GCRV utilizes host Vdrs to increase hmgcr-dependent cholesterol synthesis for promoting its replication, which can be prevented by VitD treatment. IMPORTANCE Grass carp reovirus (GCRV) is the causative agent of grass carp hemorrhagic disease, which seriously harms freshwater fish. Although many positive or negative regulators of GCRV infection have been identified in teleosts, little is known about the molecular mechanisms by which GCRV utilizes host factors to generate its infectious compartments beneficial for viral replication and infection. Here, we show that in the absence of VitD, the GCRV-873 strain utilizes host vitamin D receptors Vdra/Vdrb to increase hmgcr-dependent cholesterol synthesis for promoting the production of VIBs, which are important functional sites for aquareovirus replication and assembly. The negative regulation of Vdrs during viral infection can be prevented by VitD treatment. Thus, this present work broadens understanding of the pivotal roles of Vdrs in the interaction between the host and GCRV in the absence or presence of VitD, which might provide a rational basis for developing novel anti-GCRV strategies.

Functional analysis of vitamin D receptor (VDR) using adenovirus vector

Recently, we generated type II rickets model rats, including Vdr(R270L), Vdr(H301Q), Vdr(R270L/H301Q), and Vdr-knockout (KO), by genome editing. All generated animals showed symptoms of rickets, including growth retardation and abnormal bone formation. Among these, only Vdr-KO rats exhibited abnormal skin formation and alopecia. To elucidate the relationship between VDR function and rickets symptoms, each VDR was expressed in human HaCaT-VDR-KO cells using an adenovirus vector. We also constructed an adenovirus vector expressing VDR(V342M) corresponding to human VDR(V346M) which causes alopecia. We compared the nuclear translocation of VDRs after adding 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D3) or 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25D3) at final concentrations of 10 and 100 nM, respectively. Both 25D3 and 1,25D3 induced the nuclear translocation of wild type VDR and VDR(V342M). Conversely, VDR(R270L) translocation was observed in the presence of 100 nM 25D3, with almost no translocation following treatment with 10 nM 1,25D3. VDR(R270L/H301Q) failed to undergo nuclear translocation. These results were consistent with their affinity for each ligand. Notably, VDR(R270L/H301Q) may exist in an unliganded form under physiological conditions, and factors interacting with VDR(R270L/H301Q) may be involved in the hair growth cycle. Thus, this novel system using an adenovirus vector could be valuable in elucidating vitamin D receptor functions.

Robust osteogenic efficacy of 2α-heteroarylalkyl vitamin D analogue AH-1 in VDR (R270L) hereditary vitamin D-dependent rickets model rats

Active vitamin D form 1α,25-dihydroxtvitamin D₃ (1,25(OH)₂D₃) plays pivotal roles in calcium homeostasis and osteogenesis via its transcription regulation effect via binding to vitamin D receptor (VDR). Mutated VDR often causes hereditary vitamin D-dependent rickets (VDDR) type II, and patients with VDDR-II are hardly responsive to physiological doses of 1,25(OH)D₃. Current therapeutic approaches, including high doses of oral calcium and supraphysiologic doses of 1,25(OH)₂D_3, have limited success and fail to improve the quality of life of affected patients. Thus, various vitamin D analogues have been developed as therapeutic options. In our previous study, we generated genetically modified rats with mutated Vdr(R270L), an ortholog of human VDR(R274L) isolated from the patients with VDDR-II. The significant reduced affinity toward 1,25(OH)₂D₃ of rat Vdr(R270L) enabled us to evaluate biological activities of exogenous VDR ligand without 1α-hydroxy group such as 25(OH)D₃. In this study, 2α-[2-(tetrazol-2-yl)ethyl]-1α,25(OH)₂D₃ (AH-1) exerted much higher affinity for Vdr(R270L) in in vitro ligand binding assay than both 25(OH)D₃ and 1,25(OH)₂D₃. A robust osteogenic activity of AH-1 was observed in Vdr(R270L) rats. Only a 40-fold lower dose of AH-1 than that of 25(OH)D₃ was effective in ameliorating rickets symptoms in Vdr(R270L) rats. Therefore, AH-1 may be promising for the therapy of VDDR-II with VDR(R274L).

Development of In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation Systems for Vitamin D Derivatives and Their Application to Drug Discovery

We have developed an in vitro system to easily examine the affinity for vitamin D receptor (VDR) and CYP24A1-mediated metabolism as two methods of assessing vitamin D derivatives. Vitamin D derivatives with high VDR affinity and resistance to CYP24A1-mediated metabolism could be good therapeutic agents. This system can effectively select vitamin D derivatives with these useful properties. We have also developed an in vivo system including a Cyp27b1-gene-deficient rat (a type I rickets model), a Vdr-gene-deficient rat (a type II rickets model), and a rat with a mutant Vdr (R270L) (another type II rickets model) using a genome editing method. For Cyp27b1-gene-deficient and Vdr mutant (R270L) rats, amelioration of rickets symptoms can be used as an index of the efficacy of vitamin D derivatives. Vdr-gene-deficient rats can be used to assess the activities of vitamin D derivatives specialized for actions not mediated by VDR. One of our original vitamin D derivatives, which displays high affinity VDR binding and resistance to CYP24A1-dependent metabolism, has shown good therapeutic effects in Vdr (R270L) rats, although further analysis is needed.

Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Activities of 1,4- Disubstituted 1,2,3-Triazole Compounds

BACKGROUND

1,2,3-triazoles are five-membered heterocyclic scaffold; their broad-spectrum biological activities are known. Researchers around the world are increasingly being interested in this emerging area, owing to its immense pharmacological scope.

OBJECTIVE

This work summarizes the synthesis of 1,2,3-triazoles and the significance of this pattern as a lead structure for new drug molecules discovery.

METHODS

1,2,3-triazoles can be obtained on a multigram scale through "click chemistry" under ambient conditions.

RESULTS

Sixteen compounds were synthesized and evaluated on five microbial strains E. coli, E. faecalis, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus and C. albicans. NMR, MS and IR were used to characterize all compounds. They were evaluated with their Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) and interesting results were obtained with compounds 12a, 12b, 3, 2a and 2c, with MIC 0.14 μM (P. aeruginosa), 1.08 μM (E. coli), 1.20 μM (E. faecalis and C. albicans), 3.5 μM (E. faecalis) and 4.24 μM (C. albicans), respectively. P. aeruginosa and C. albicans were the most sensitive among all the strains.

CONCLUSION

The synthesized compounds were found as potential antimicrobial agents against Gram (+), Gram (-) strains and fungi.

Generation of novel genetically modified rats to reveal the molecular mechanisms of vitamin D actions

Recent studies have suggested that vitamin D activities involve vitamin D receptor (VDR)-dependent and VDR-independent effects of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D₃ (1,25(OH)₂D₃) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ (25(OH)D₃) and ligand-independent effects of the VDR. Here, we describe a novel in vivo system using genetically modified rats deficient in the Cyp27b1 or Vdr genes. Type II rickets model rats with a mutant Vdr (R270L), which recognizes 1,25(OH)₂D₃ with an affinity equivalent to that for 25(OH)D₃, were also generated. Although Cyp27b1-knockout (KO), Vdr-KO, and Vdr (R270L) rats each showed rickets symptoms, including abnormal bone formation, they were significantly different from each other. Administration of 25(OH)D₃ reversed rickets symptoms in Cyp27b1-KO and Vdr (R270L) rats. Interestingly, 1,25(OH)₂D₃ was synthesized in Cyp27b1-KO rats, probably by Cyp27a1. In contrast, the effects of 25(OH)D₃ on Vdr (R270L) rats strongly suggested a direct action of 25(OH)D₃ via VDR-genomic pathways. These results convincingly suggest the usefulness of our in vivo system.

Interactions between oestrogen and 1α,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 signalling and their roles in spermatogenesis and spermatozoa functions

Oestrogens and 1α,25(OH)₂-vitamin D₃ (1,25-D₃) are steroids that can provide effects by binding to their receptors localised in the cytoplasm and in the nucleus or the plasma membrane respectively inducing genomic and non-genomic effects. As confirmed notably by invalidation of the genes, coding for their receptors as tested with mice with in vivo and in vitro treatments, oestrogens and 1,25-D₃ are regulators of spermatogenesis. Moreover, some functions of ejaculated spermatozoa as viability, DNA integrity, motility, capacitation, acrosome reaction and fertilizing ability are targets for these hormones. The studies conducted on their mechanisms of action, even though not completely elicited, have allowed the demonstration of putative interactions between their signalling pathways that are worth examining more closely. The present review focuses on the elements regulated by oestrogens and 1,25-D₃ in the testis and spermatozoa as well as the interactions between the signalling pathways of both hormones.

Vitamin D receptor (VDR) regulation of voltage-gated chloride channels by ligands preferring a VDR-alternative pocket (VDR-AP)

We have postulated that the vitamin D receptor (VDR) contains two overlapping ligand binding sites, a genomic pocket and an alternative pocket (AP), that mediate regulation of gene transcription and rapid responses, respectively. Flexible VDR + ligand docking calculations predict that the major blood metabolite, 25(OH)-vitamin D(3) (25D3), and curcumin (CM) bind more selectively to the VDR-AP when compared with the seco-steroid hormone 1α,25(OH)(2)-vitamin D(3) (1,25D3). In VDR wild-type-transfected COS-1 cells and TM4 Sertoli cells, 1,25D3, 25D3, and CM each trigger voltage-gated, outwardly rectifying chloride channel (ORCC) currents that can be blocked by the VDR antagonist 1β,25(OH)(2)-vitamin D(3) and the chloride channel antagonist (4,4'-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid). VDR mutational analysis in transfected COS-1 cells demonstrate the DNA-binding domain is not, but the ligand binding and hinge domains of the VDR are, required for 1,25D3 and 25D3 to activate the ORCC. Dose-response studies demonstrate that 25D3 and 1,25D3 are approximately equipotent in stimulating ORCC rapid responses, whereas 1 nm 1,25D3 was 1000-fold more potent than 25D3 and CM in stimulating gene expression. The VDR-AP agonist effects of 1,25D3, 25D3, and low-dose CM are lost after pretreatment of TM4 cells with VDR small interfering RNA. Collectively, these results are consistent with an essential role for the VDR-AP in initiating the signaling required for rapid opening of ORCC. The fact that 25D3 is equipotent to 1,25D3 in opening ORCC suggests that reconsideration of the ability of 25D3 to generate biological responses in vivo may be in order.

Deletion of the vitamin D receptor specifically in the parathyroid demonstrates a limited role for the receptor in parathyroid physiology

1,25(OH)2D3 decreases parathyroid hormone (PTH) gene transcription through the vitamin D receptor (VDR). Total body VDR−/− mice have high PTH levels, hypocalcemia, hypophosphatemia, and bone malformations. To investigate PTH regulation by the VDR specifically in the parathyroid, we generated parathyroid-specific VDR knockout mice ( PT-VDR−/−). In both strains, there was a decrease in parathyroid calcium receptor (CaR) levels. The number of proliferating parathyroid cells was increased in the VDR−/− mice but not in the PT-VDR−/− mice. Serum PTH levels were moderately but significantly increased in the PT-VDR−/− mice with normal serum calcium levels. The sensitivity of the parathyroid glands of the PT-VDR−/− mice to calcium was intact as measured by serum PTH levels after changes in serum calcium. This indicates that the reduced CaR in the PT-VDR−/− mice enables a physiologic response to serum calcium. Serum C-terminal collagen crosslinks, a marker of bone resorption, were increased in the PT-VDR−/− mice with no change in the bone formation marker, serum osteocalcin, consistent with a resorptive effect due to the increased serum PTH levels in the PT-VDR−/− mice. Therefore, deletion of the VDR specifically in the parathyroid decreases parathyroid CaR expression and only moderately increases basal PTH levels, suggesting that the VDR has a limited role in parathyroid physiology.

Vitamin D, vitamin D analogs (deltanoids) and prostate cancer

'Vitamin D' is a generic term for a family of secosteroids, members of which bind to the vitamin D receptor. Calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, has antiproliferative effects on many tumor cells. However, clinical use of calcitriol in cancer prevention or therapy is limited because it induces hypercalcemia at the necessary supraphysiological doses. The anti-tumor effects of vitamin D analogs (deltanoids) have been researched extensively; more than 3000 deltanoids have now been described. Prostate cancer is more common in northern geographic regions; mortality decreases with exposure to sunlight. As UV light is necessary for vitamin D synthesis in the skin, it has long been dogma that vitamin D is involved. This review concerns deltanoids that have been assessed for use in treating or preventing prostate cancer.

Calcitriol modulation of cardiac contractile performance via protein kinase C

Vitamin D(3) deficiency enhances cardiac contraction in experimental studies, yet paradoxically this deficiency is linked to congestive heart failure in humans. Activated vitamin D(3) (1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3)) or calcitriol, decreases peak force and activates protein kinase C (PKC) in isolated perfused hearts. However, the direct influence of this hormone on adult cardiac myocyte contractile function is not well understood. Our aim is to investigate whether 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) acutely modulates contractile function via PKC activation in adult rat cardiac myocytes. Sarcomere shortening and re-lengthening were measured in electrically stimulated myocytes isolated from adult rat hearts, and the vitamin D(3) response (10(-10) to 10(-7) M) was compared to shortening observed under basal conditions. Maximum changes in sarcomere shortening and relaxation were observed with 10(-9) M 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3). This dose decreased peak shortening, and accelerated contraction and relaxation rates within 5 min of administration, and changes in the Ca(2+) transient contributed to the peak shortening and relaxation effects. The PKC inhibitor, bis-indolylmaleimide (500 nM) largely blocked the acute influence of the most potent dose (10(-9) M) on contractile function. While peak shortening and shortening rate returned to baseline within 30 min, there was a sustained acceleration of relaxation that continued over 60 min. Phosphorylation of the Ca(2+) regulatory proteins, phospholamban, and cardiac troponin I correlated with the accelerated relaxation observed in response to acute application of 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3). Accelerated relaxation continued to be observed after chronic addition of 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (e.g. 2 days), yet this sustained increase in relaxation was not associated with increased phosphorylation of phospholamban or troponin I. These results provide evidence that 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) directly modulates adult myocyte contractile function, and protein kinase C plays an important signaling role in the acute response. Phosphorylation of key Ca(2+) regulatory proteins by this kinase contributes to the enhanced relaxation observed in response to acute, but not chronic calcitriol.

Nongenomic actions of estrogens: exciting opportunities for pharmacology

Estrogens, like other steroids, elicit a variety of rapid effects in many tissues in addition to their delayed action on gene expression in the cell nucleus. The rapid responses occur without participation of the genome, and are therefore termed nongenomic. Some of the estrogen induced effects acutely modulate vascular function and may contribute to the gender difference in cardiovascular susceptibility. While some actions may be mediated by novel, nonclassic receptors, the classic estrogen receptor has been shown to also act on signalling cascades. There are sparse examples for compounds structurally related to the endogenous hormone estradiol that bind to the estrogen receptor but may selectively elicit nongenomic responses. The further development of such selectively acting drugs holds much promise for better therapies with fewer side effects, e.g. for vascular malfunction, but also for estrogen-dependent cancer.

Side-chain-modified analogs of calcitriol cause resistance of human HL-60 promyelocytic leukemia cells to drug-induced apoptosis

Calcitriol and some of its analogs have antiproliferative activity, but at the same time, can cause resistance to apoptosis induced by known cytostatic drugs. In this paper, we examined the effects of treatment with calcitriol or its side-chain-modified analogs, analog of Vitamin D2, coded PRI-1906, with monohomologated and unsaturated side-chain and the analog of Vitamin D3, coded PRI-2191, with (24R) hydroxyl group, and those of known cytostatics (genistein, etoposide, doxorubicin, cisplatin, and taxol) on the apoptosis of HL-60 promyelocytic leukemia cells. HL-60 cells were incubated in three different sequences: (1) pre-treatment with calcitriol or its analogs and then treatment with cytostatics; (2) pre-treatment with cytostatics and then treatment with calcitriol; (3) simultaneous treatment with calcitriol and cytostatics. Apoptosis was examined either by DNA fragmentation in agarose gel electrophoresis or by cell-cycle analysis in a FACS Calibur flow cytometer. We showed that pre-treatment with calcitriol or one of its side-chain-modified analogs PRI-1906 or PRI-2191 caused resistance of HL-60 promyelocytic leukemia cells to genistein-, doxorubicin-, cisplatin-, and taxol-induced apoptosis. Simultaneous exposure of HL-60 cells to calcitriol and drug caused a significant decrease in the apoptotic level of HL-60 cells compared with cells treated with drug alone. The pre-treatment of HL-60 cells with drug and then treatment with calcitriol did not increase the level of apoptosis compared with the drug effect alone. These results indicate the potential limitations of calcitriol analogs for treatment of leukemia.

Nongenomic steroid action: controversies, questions, and answers

Steroids may exert their action in living cells by several ways: 1). the well-known genomic pathway, involving hormone binding to cytosolic (classic) receptors and subsequent modulation of gene expression followed by protein synthesis. 2). Alternatively, pathways are operating that do not act on the genome, therefore indicating nongenomic action. Although it is comparatively easy to confirm the nongenomic nature of a particular phenomenon observed, e.g., by using inhibitors of transcription or translation, considerable controversy exists about the identity of receptors that mediate these responses. Many different approaches have been employed to answer this question, including pharmacology, knock-out animals, and numerous biochemical studies. Evidence is presented for and against both the participation of classic receptors, or proteins closely related to them, as well as for the involvement of yet poorly understood, novel membrane steroid receptors. In addition, clinical implications for a wide array of nongenomic steroid actions are outlined.

Expression of a 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 membrane-associated rapid-response steroid binding protein during human tooth and bone development and biomineralization

The calciotropic hormone 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3] has been established to control skeletal tissue formation and biomineralization via the regulation of gene expression. This action involves the well-characterized nuclear 1,25(OH)2D3 receptor. However, it has been recognized that several cellular responses to 1,25(OH)2D3 may not to be related to the exclusive nuclear receptor. Indeed, this secosteroid is able to generate rapid responses that have been proposed to be mediated by interactions of the ligand, which is a putative cell membrane-associated rapid-response steroid (MARRS) binding protein for 1,25(OH)2D3 [1,25D3-MARRS]. The nongenomic pathway of 1,25(OH)2D3 was studied here in detail by immunolocalization of the 1,25D3-MARRS during the specific context of human prenatal development. Western blotting with proteins extracted from 4 week- to 27-week-old embryos was performed, evidencing a 65-kDa molecular species recognized by antibody Ab 099 generated against synthetic peptides corresponding to the N terminus of the 1,25D3-MARRS from chick intestinal basolateral membranes. Based on this biochemical conservation of protein in the human species, the temporospatial expression patterns were established in the craniofacial skeleton at the same ages. Comparative analysis was performed in teeth and bones from early morphogenesis to terminal cell differentiation and extracellular biomineralization. The data show the potential implication of 1,25D3-MARRS in the heterogeneous cell population including ameloblasts, odontoblasts, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts. The epithelial-mesenchymal cascade related to odontogenesis was coincident with a sequence of up- and down-regulation of immunoreactive 1,25D3-MARRS. Biomineralization was associated with a striking up-regulation in the adjoining secretory cells in all tissues. Finally, osteoclasts appeared also to express the 1,25D3-MARRS during these early phases of bone modeling. Previously obtained data of the nuclear vitamin D receptor (VDR) expression and this study on 1,25D3-MARRS suggest the existence of cross-talk between the genomic and nongenomic pathways during human development.

Marked disproportionality in bone size and mineral, and distinct abnormalities in bone markers and calcitropic hormones in adult turner syndrome: a cross-sectional study

Most women with Turner syndrome (TS) have no gonadal activity and thus lack estrogen. Bone mineral density (BMD) is often reduced, leading to an increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures. However, growth retardation with reduced final height and other endocrine disturbances may compromise interpretation of skeletal measurements. The aim of the present study was to explore skeletal findings, bone metabolism, and calcium homeostasis in TS. Sixty women with TS (age, 37 +/- 9 yr) and 181 normal age-matched female controls were studied. Bone area (A; square centimeters), bone mineral content (BMC; grams), area-adjusted BMD (aBMD; grams/square centimeter), and volumetric BMD (vBMD; grams/cubic centimeter) were measured at lumbar spine, femoral neck, and forearm using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Twenty-eight percent had osteopenia, and 23% had osteoporosis, according to World Health Organization criteria. At the lumbar spine, A, BMC, aBMD, and vBMD were reduced by 18, 27, 11, and 6%, respectively; at the femoral neck, A, BMC, and aBMD were reduced by 2, 10, and 8%, respectively, whereas the 9% reduction in vBMD was insignificant (P = 0.07); and in the forearm, A, BMC, and aBMD were reduced by 53, 55, and 9%, respectively. Bone markers indicated an enhanced bone resorption (21 and 23% increase in C-terminal and N-terminal cross-linking telopeptides of type I collagen/creatinine, respectively) with unchanged (osteocalcin, procollagen I N-terminal propeptide) or reduced (54% reduction in bone alkaline phosphatase) bone formation. Plasma levels of calcium and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (26%) were reduced, and PTH levels increased (74%) in TS. IGF-I (30%), IGF binding protein 3 (18%), testosterone (50%), and SHBG (40%) were reduced in TS. In summary, A, BMC, and aBMD were found to be universally reduced in TS, whereas vBMD was slightly reduced in the spine. Increased resorption of bone was present, with normal or blunted bone formation, suggesting uncoupling or imbalance in bone remodeling. Skeletal changes may be induced by chromosome abnormalities or by secondary endocrine or metabolic changes related to a relative estrogen deficiency, testosterone deficiency, reduced IGF-I, low vitamin D status, and secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Novel role of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) in induction of erythroid progenitor cell proliferation

OBJECTIVE

Burst-forming unit erythroid and colony-forming unit erythroid growth in vitro is lower in studies of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patients than healthy controls. Burst-forming unit erythroid growth was potentiated by addition of 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) [1,25(OH)(2)D(3)] and normalized by erythropoietin (Epo) therapy, suggesting an interaction between Epo and 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) at the stem cell level. The objective of this study was to determine the mechanism by which 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) enhances the stimulatory effect of Epo on the growth of erythroid precursor cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We examined the effect of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) and Epo on stem cell proliferation. Proliferation of TF1 cells of erythroid origin was measured by the XTT method, 3[H] thymidine incorporation, and cell counting by trypan blue exclusion; cord blood (CB) stem cells were counted. Epo receptor (EpoR) quantitation was evaluated by 125I-Epo binding and Scatchard analysis, immunoprecipitation, and Western blotting. Expression of EpoR mRNA was measured by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

The stem cell factor-dependent CB stem cells and the TF1 cells responded to Epo and 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) by increased proliferation, while their simultaneous addition potentiated cell proliferation in a synergistic manner (25.67% +/- 4.8% of Epo proliferation at day 10 for CB cells; p < 0.005). 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) produced an up-regulation of EpoR number in TF1 cells and increased the expression of EpoR mRNA (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The increase in EpoR expression induced by 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) might explain the synergistic interaction between Epo and 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) in stem cells.

A phase II trial of the vitamin D analogue Seocalcitol (EB1089) in patients with inoperable pancreatic cancer

Inoperable cancer of the exocrine pancreas responds poorly to most conventional anti-cancer agents, and new agents are required to palliate this disease. Seocalcitol (EB1089), a vitamin D analogue, can inhibit growth, induce differentiation and induce apoptosis of cancer cell lines in vitro and can also inhibit growth of pancreatic cancer xenografts in vivo. Thirty-six patients with advanced pancreatic cancer received once daily oral treatment with seocalcitol with dose escalation every 2 weeks until hypercalcaemia occurred, following which patients continued with maintenance therapy. The most frequent toxicity was the anticipated dose-dependent hypercalcaemia, with most patients tolerating a dose of 10-15 microg per day in chronic administration. Fourteen patients completed at least 8 weeks of treatment and were evaluable for efficacy, whereas 22 patients were withdrawn prior to completing 8 weeks' treatment and in 20 of these patients withdrawal was due to clinical deterioration as a result of disease progression. No objective responses were observed, with five of 14 patients having stable disease in whom the duration of stable disease was 82-532 days (median=168 days). The time to treatment failure (n=36) ranged from 22 to 847 days, and with a median survival of approximately 100 days. Seocalcitol is well tolerated in pancreatic cancer but has no objective anti-tumour activity in advanced disease. Further studies are necessary to determine if this agent has any cytostatic activity in this malignancy in minimal disease states.

Evidence for distinct membrane receptors for 1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) and 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) in osteoblasts

1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) exerts its effects on chondrocytes and enterocytes via nuclear receptors (1,25-nVDR) and a separate membrane receptor (1,25-mVDR) that activates protein kinase C (PKC). 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) also stimulates PKC in chondrocytes, but through other membrane mechanisms. This study examined the hypothesis that osteoblasts possess distinct membrane receptors for 1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) and 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) that are involved in the activation of PKC and that receptor expression varies as a function of cell maturation state. 1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) stimulated PKC in well differentiated (UMR-106, MC-3T3-E1) and moderately differentiated (ROS 17/2.8) osteoblast-like cells, and in cultures of fetal rat calvarial (FRC) cells and 2T3 cells treated with rhBMP-2 to promote differentiation. 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) stimulated PKC in FRC and 2T3 cultures that had not been treated to induce differentiation, and in ROS 17/2.8 cells. MG63 cells, a relatively undifferentiated osteoblast-like cell line, had no response to either metabolite. Ab99, a polyclonal antibody generated to the chick enterocyte 1,25-mVDR, but not a specific antibody to the 1,25-nVDR, inhibited response to 1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3). 1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) exhibited specific binding to plasma membrane preparations from cells demonstrating a PKC response to this metabolite that is typical of positive cooperativity. Western blots of these membrane proteins reacted with Ab99, and the Ab99-positive protein had an Mr of 64 kDa. There was no cross-reaction with antibodies to the C- or N-terminus of annexin II. The effect of 24,25-(OH)(2)D(3) on PKC was stereospecific; 24S,25-(OH)(2)D(3) had no effect. These results demonstrate that response to 1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) and 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) depends on osteoblast maturation state and suggest that specific and distinct membrane receptors are involved.

The synthesis of [26,27-11C]dihydroxyvitamin D(3), a tracer for positron emission tomography (PET)

1Alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3), an endogenous ligand with the highest affinity for the vitamin D receptor (VDR), was labeled with 11C for use in biological experiments. The radionuclide was incorporated via the reaction of [11C]methyllithium on a methyl ketone precursor in tetrahydrofuran at -10 degrees C. Deprotection of the labeled intermediate yielded 2.5-3 GBq [26,27-11C]1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) [11C-1,25(OH)(2) D(3)] with specific radioactivity averaging 100 GBq/micromol at the end of synthesis and HPLC purification. The entire process took 48 min from the end of radionuclide production. In vitro binding experiments in rachitic chick purified VDR demonstrated the high affinity binding of this novel tracer. Thus; 11C-1,25(OH)(2) D(3) is available for in vivo distribution studies and may be suitable for the positron emission tomography (PET) determination of VDR levels and occupancy in animals and humans.

Differential activities of 1alpha,25-dihydroxy-16-ene-vitamin D(3) analogs and their 3-epimers on human promyelocytic leukemia (HL-60) cell differentiation and apoptosis

To clarify physiological role of the carbon 3 (C-3) epimerization of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) and biologic significance of a 3-epi metabolite of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3), we examined biologic activities of the 3-epimers of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) and 1alpha,25(OH)(2)-16-ene-D(3) analogs in terms of modulation of cell cycle phase distribution and cell-surface CD11b antigen expression of HL-60 cells, transactivation of vitamin D target genes in transfected cells, stimulation of VDR/RXRalpha heterodimer formation in a rabbit reticulocyte lysates transcription/translation system, stimulation of VDR/RXRalpha/VDRE complex formation, and induction of HL-60 cell apoptosis. The analogs tested here were 1) 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3), 2) 1alpha,25(OH)(2)-3-epi-D(3), 3) 1alpha,25(OH)(2)-16-ene-D(3), 4) 1alpha,25(OH)(2)-16-ene-3-epi-D(3), 5) 1alpha,25(OH)(2)-16-ene-23-yne-hexafluoro(F(6))-D(3), 6) 1alpha,25(OH)(2)-16-ene-23-yne-hexafluoro(F(6))-3-epi-D(3), 7) 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)-16-ene-20-epi-23-yne-D(3), and 8) 1alpha,25(OH)(2)-16-ene-20-epi-23-yne-3-epi-D(3). When compared to the 3-natural (beta) analogs, the 3-epi (alpha) analogs were biologically significantly less active. The findings support the hypothesis that the C-3 epimerization is an inactivation pathway of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) and its analogs in vitamin D target tissues. We also found that the 3-epi analogs, but not the 3-natural (beta) analogs, were the potent inducers of apoptosis of HL-60 cells. These results suggest that the analogs could be divided into two groups, in which the 3-epi analogs were the potent inducers of apoptosis of HL-60 cells, and the 3-natural analogs were the potent modulators of HL-60 cell growth and differentiation. This is the first report demonstrating that the 3-epimerization of the hydroxyl group at C-3 of the A-ring of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) plays an important role to modulate HL-60 cell differentiation and apoptosis.

24,25-(OH)(2)D(3) regulates cartilage and bone via autocrine and endocrine mechanisms

The purpose of this paper is to summarize recent advances in our understanding of the physiological role of 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) in bone and cartilage and its mechanism of action. With the identification of a target cell, the growth plate resting zone (RC) chondrocyte, we have been able to use cell biology methodology to investigate specific functions of 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) and to determine how 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) elicits its effects. These studies indicate that there are specific membrane-associated signal transduction pathways that mediate both rapid, nongenomic and genomic responses of RC cells to 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3). 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) binds RC chondrocyte membranes with high specificity, resulting in an increase in protein kinase C (PKC) activity. The effect is stereospecific; 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3), but not 24S,25-(OH)(2)D(3), causes the increase, indicating a receptor-mediated response. Phospholipase D-2 (PLD2) activity is increased, resulting in increased production of diacylglycerol (DAG), which in turn activates PKC. 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) does not cause translocation of PKC to the plasma membrane, but activates existing PKCalpha. There is a rapid decrease in Ca(2+) efflux, and influx is stimulated. 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) also reduces arachidonic acid release by decreasing phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) activity, thereby decreasing available substrate for prostaglandin production via the action of cyclooxygenase-1. PGE(2) that is produced acts on the EP1 and EP2 receptors expressed by RC cells to downregulate PKC via protein kinase A, but the reduction in PGE(2) decreases this negative feedback mechanism. Both pathways converge on MAP kinase, leading to new gene expression. One consequence of this is production of new matrix vesicles containing PKCalpha and PKCzeta and an increase in PKC activity. The chondrocytes also produce 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3), and the secreted metabolite acts directly on the matrix vesicle membrane. Only PKCzeta is directly affected by 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) in the matrix vesicles, and activity of this isoform is inhibited. This effect may be involved in the control of matrix maturation and turnover. 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) causes RC cells to mature along the endochondral developmental pathway, where they become responsive to 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) and lose responsiveness to 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3), a characteristic of more mature growth zone (GC) chondrocytes. 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) elicits its effects on GC through different signal transduction pathways than those used by 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3). These studies indicate that 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) plays an important role in endochondral ossification by regulating less mature chondrocytes and promoting their maturation in the endochondral lineage.

G protein beta gamma subunits inhibit nongenomic progesterone-induced signaling and maturation in Xenopus laevis oocytes. Evidence for a release of inhibition mechanism for cell cycle progression

Progesterone-induced maturation of Xenopus oocytes is a well known example of nongenomic signaling by steroids; however, little is known about the early signaling events involved in this process. Previous work has suggested that G proteins and G protein-coupled receptors may be involved in progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation as well as in other nongenomic steroid-induced signaling events. To investigate the role of G proteins in nongenomic signaling by progesterone, the effects of modulating Galpha and Gbetagamma levels in Xenopus oocytes on progesterone-induced signaling and maturation were examined. Our results demonstrate that Gbetagamma subunits, rather than Galpha, are the principal mediators of progesterone action in this system. We show that overexpression of Gbetagamma inhibits both progesterone-induced maturation and activation of the MAPK pathway, whereas sequestration of endogenous Gbetagamma subunits enhances progesterone-mediated signaling and maturation. These data are consistent with a model whereby endogenous free Xenopus Gbetagamma subunits constitutively inhibit oocyte maturation. Progesterone may induce maturation by antagonizing this inhibition and therefore allowing cell cycle progression to occur. These studies offer new insight into the early signaling events mediated by progesterone and may be useful in characterizing and identifying the membrane progesterone receptor in oocytes.

Molecular modeling, affinity labeling, and site-directed mutagenesis define the key points of interaction between the ligand-binding domain of the vitamin D nuclear receptor and 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3

We have combined molecular modeling and classical structure-function techniques to define the interactions between the ligand-binding domain (LBD) of the vitamin D nuclear receptor (VDR) and its natural ligand, 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) [1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3)]. The affinity analogue 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3)-3-bromoacetate exclusively labeled Cys-288 in the VDR-LBD. Mutation of C288 to glycine abolished this affinity labeling, whereas the VDR-LBD mutants C337G and C369G (other conserved cysteines in the VDR-LBD) were labeled similarly to the wild-type protein. These results revealed that the A-ring 3-OH group docks next to C288 in the binding pocket. We further mutated M284 and W286 (separately creating M284A, M284S, W286A, and W286F) and caused severe loss of ligand binding, indicating the crucial role played by the contiguous segment between M284 and C288. Alignment of the VDR-LBD sequence with the sequences of nuclear receptor LBDs of known 3-D structure positioned M284 and W286 in the presumed beta-hairpin of the molecule, thereby identifying it as the region contacting the A-ring of 1alpha, 25-(OH)(2)D(3). From the multiple sequence alignment, we developed a homologous extension model of the VDR-LBD. The model has a canonical nuclear receptor fold with helices H1-H12 and a single beta hairpin but lacks the long insert (residues 161-221) between H2 and H3. We docked the alpha-conformation of the A-ring into the binding pocket first so as to incorporate the above-noted interacting residues. The model predicts hydrogen bonding contacts between ligand and protein at S237 and D299 as well as at the site of the natural mutation R274L. Mutation of S237 or D299 to alanine largely abolished ligand binding, whereas changing K302, a nonligand-contacting residue, to alanine left binding unaffected. In the "activation" helix 12, the model places V418 closest to the ligand, and, consistent with this prediction, the mutation V418S abolished ligand binding. The studies together have enabled us to identify 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3)-binding motifs in the ligand-binding pocket of VDR.

Altered response of a human squamous cell carcinoma cell line to 1, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) after transfer of a normal chromosome 11

Previous work in our laboratory using functional assays for tumorigenicity identified a tumor suppressor element on human chromosome 11q for the cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma cell line A388.6TG.c2. In this report, we screened a variety of agents for differential effects on A388.6TG.c2 compared to a growth-suppressed chromosome 11 microcell hybrid of A388.6TG.c2. One of the agents, 1, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (1,25(OH)(2)D(3); calcitriol), exerted a growth-altering effect on A388.6TG.c2, which formed rounded cell clusters across the surface of the raft by Day 6 of treatment. In contrast, full-length chromosome 11 hybrids of A388.6TG.c2, as well as two other squamous cell carcinoma cell lines (FaDu and A431), when treated with 1,25(OH)(2)D(3), failed to demonstrate this cell-clumping phenotype. To pursue the hypothesis that the growth suppressor element is involved in altering the response to 1, 25(OH)(2)D(3), we tested microcell hybrids carrying t(X;11) chromosomes lacking large portions of 11q. Although these hybrids, like the parent A388.6TG.c2 cells, demonstrated extensive growth in organotypic cultures, they failed to form cell clusters with 1, 25(OH)(2)D(3) treatment. These results suggest that the chromosome 11 element that alters the response to 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) is distinct from the growth-suppressing element. An examination of differentiation marker expression revealed identical patterns of basal and suprabasal markers for A388.6TG.c2 and for a chromosome 11 hybrid with or without treatment with 1,25(OH)(2)D(3). Finally, characterization of candidate tumor suppressor gene PPP2R1B, which encodes for a subunit of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), showed seemingly insignificant alterations by cDNA sequence analysis. Collectively, the data suggest that human chromosome 11 contains two different tumor suppressor elements that may account for the two areas of loss of heterozygosity observed on the long arm of this chromosome.

Convergent synthesis, chiral HPLC, and vitamin D receptor affinity of analogs of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol

A series of analogs of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol was obtained with an additional chiral center at the terminus of the aliphatic side chain (C-25). The analogs were obtained from (+)-(R)- and (-)-(S)-2-methylglycidols, by opening of the oxirane ring with the carbanions derived from vitamin D C23a,24- or C22-sulfones. The diastereomeric purity of the analogs was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography on a chiral stationary phase. The binding affinity of analogs for the calf thymus intracellular vitamin D receptor (VDR) was two orders of magnitude lower than that of the lead compound of this group, 24a,24b-dihomo-1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol, and it was comparable to the affinity of analogs of 24-nor-1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol. However, a twofold difference was observed for analogs diastereomeric at C-25 in their affinity for VDR. The diastereodifferentiation of the binding affinity was found to be specific for vitamin D vicinal 25,26-diols as it disappears for analogs where 26-hydroxyl, neighboring the C-25 chiral center, is replaced with methyl.

"Non-hypercalcemic" analogs of 1alpha,25 dihydroxy vitamin D augment the induction of creatine kinase B by estrogen and selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMS) in osteoblast-like cells and rat skeletal organs

We have demonstrated previously that daily treatments for 3 days with the so-called "non-hypercalcemic" analogs of 1alpha,25 dihydroxy vitamin D in ROS 17/2.8 osteoblast-like cells, stimulate the specific activity of creatine kinase BB (CK), and that such treatment with these analogs followed by a single treatment with gonadal steroids, upregulates responsiveness and sensitivity to estradiol 17beta (E(2)) for the induction of CK. This study was designed to determine if these same "non-hypercalcemic" vitamin D analogs could upregulate in vivo the response to E(2) and whether substitution of selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMS) for E(2) would result in the same upregulation. We found that one week or 2 weeks pretreatment of prepubertal rats with vitamin D analogs led to increased induction of CK by E(2) and by the SERMS tamoxifen, tamoxifen methiodide and raloxifene, in epiphysis and diaphysis of the femur but not in the uterus. However, in contrast to their antiestrogenic activity in the uterus, there was no inhibition of E(2) action by the SERMS in skeletal tissues. The induction of mRNA for ckb in ROS 17/2.8 cells by E(2) or SERMS was demonstrated only after vitamin D pretreatment; there was no inhibition of E(2) induction by SERMS. Antagonists of vitamin D dependent calcium transport (transcaltachia) did not inhibit stimulation by vitamin D analogs. These results support the involvement of a nuclear mechanism in the upregulation of induction of CK by E(2), which may be due, in part, to the ability of vitamin D to increase estrogen receptor(s).

Diastereoselective synthesis, binding affinity for vitamin D receptor, and chiral stationary phase chromatography of hydroxy analogs of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol and 25-hydroxycholecalciferol

A series of analogs of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol and 25-hydroxycholecalciferol were obtained with an additional hydroxyl in the aliphatic side chain at carbon atom C-24. These analogs were synthesized by direct and diastereo-selective alpha-hydroxylation of enolates derived from respective vitamin D esters using Davies chiral oxaziridines. The use of (+)-(2R,8aS)-(8, 8-dichlorocamphoryl)sulfonyl oxaziridine resulted in (R) stereochemistry of the new asymmetric center for both series of analogs. Similarly, (-)-(2S,8aR) oxaziridine gave (S) analogs. The diastereomeric purity of hydroxy analogs was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography on a chiral stationary phase. High diastereopurity of hydroxylation of vitamin D esters was obtained without the use of any chiral auxiliary. The binding affinity of (24R)-1,24,25-trihydroxycholecalciferol for the calf thymus intracellular vitamin D receptor was one order of magnitude higher than that of the respective (24S)-diastereomer.

An insulinotropic effect of vitamin D analog with increasing intracellular Ca2+ concentration in pancreatic beta-cells through nongenomic signal transduction

The effect of 1alpha,25-dihydroxylumisterol3 (1alpha,25(OH)2lumisterol3) on insulin release from rat pancreatic beta-cells was measured to investigate the nongenomic action of vitamin D via the putative membrane vitamin D receptor (mVDR). 1Alpha,25(OH)2lumisterol3, a specific agonist of mVDR, dose-dependently augmented 16.7 mM glucose-induced insulin release from rat pancreatic islets and increased the intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), though not increasing Ca2+ efficacy in the exocytotic system. These effects were completely abolished by an antagonist of mVDR, 1beta,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1beta,25(OH)2D3), or by a blocker of voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels, nitrendipine. Moreover, both [Ca2+]i elevation, caused by membrane depolarization, and sufficient intracellular glucose metabolism are required for the expression of these effects. 1Alpha,25(OH)2lumisterol3, therefore, has a rapid insulinotropic effect, through nongenomic signal transduction via mVDR, that would be dependent on the augmentation of Ca2+ influx through voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels on the plasma membrane, being also linked to metabolic signals derived from glucose in pancreatic beta-cells. However, further investigations will be needed to discuss physiologically the meaning of insulinotropic effects of vitamin D through mVDR.

Hormone-dependent translocation of vitamin D receptors is linked to transactivation

Vitamin D receptor (VDR) acts as a transcription factor mediating genomic actions of calcitriol. Our earlier studies suggested that calcitriol induces translocation of cytoplasmic VDR, but the physiologic relevance of this finding remained uncertain. Previous studies demonstrated that the activation function 2 domain (AF-2) plays an essential role in VDR transactivation. To elucidate hormone-dependent VDR translocation and its role, we constructed green fluorescent protein (GFP) chimeras with full-length VDR (VDR-GFP), AF-2-truncated VDR (AF-2del-VDR-GFP), and ligand-binding domain (LBD)-truncated VDR (LBDdel-VDR-GFP). COS-7 cells were transiently transfected with these constructs. Western blot analysis, fluorescent microscopy, and transactivation assays showed that the generated chimeras are expressed and fluoresce and that VDR-GFP is transcriptionally active. After hormone treatment, cytoplasmic VDR-GFP translocated to the nucleus in a concentration-, time-, temperature-, and analog-specific manner. Hormone dose-response relationships for translocation and for transactivation were similar. Truncation of LBD and truncation of AF-2 each abolished hormone-dependent translocation and transactivation. Our data confirm a hormone-dependent VDR translocation, demonstrate that an intact AF-2 domain is required for this translocation, and indicate that translocation is part of the receptor activation process.

Production of 1alpha,25-dihydroxy-3-epi-vitamin D3 in two rat osteosarcoma cell lines (UMR 106 and ROS 17/2.8): existence of the C-3 epimerization pathway in ROS 17/2.8 cells in which the C-24 oxidation pathway is not expressed

The secosteroid hormone 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1alpha,25(OH)2D3] is metabolized into calcitroic acid through the carbon 24 (C-24) oxidation pathway. It is now well established that the C-24 oxidation pathway plays an important role in the target tissue inactivation of 1alpha,25(OH)2D3. Recently, we reported that 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 is also metabolized into 1alpha,25-dihydroxy-3-epi-vitamin D3 [1alpha,25(OH)2-3-epi-D3] through the carbon 3 (C-3) epimerization pathway in human keratinocytes, human colon carcinoma cells (Caco-2), and bovine parathyroid cells. In a previous study, it was demonstrated that 1alpha,25(OH)2-3-epi-D3 when compared to 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 was less active in stimulating intestinal calcium absorption, calcium mobilization from bone, and induction of calbindin D28k. These findings suggest that the C-3 epimerization pathway, like the C-24 oxidation pathway, may play a role in the target tissue inactivation of 1alpha,25(OH)2D3. In this study, we determined the relationship between the C-24 oxidation and the C-3 epimerization pathways by investigating the metabolism of 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 in two rat osteosarcoma cell lines (UMR 106 and ROS 17/2.8). These two cell lines differ from each other in their ability to metabolize 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 through the C-24 oxidation pathway. It has been previously reported that the C-24 oxidation pathway is expressed only in UMR 106 cells but not in ROS 17/2.8 cells. The results of our present study provide new evidence that both cell lines possess the ability to metabolize 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 into 1alpha,25(OH)2-3-epi-D3 through the C-3 epimerization pathway. Our results also reconfirm the findings of previous studies indicating that UMR 106 cells are the only ones which express the C-24 oxidation pathway out of the two cell lines studied. Furthermore, this study reveals for the first time that the C-3 epimerization pathway may become an alternate metabolic pathway for the target tissue inactivation of 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 in some cells, such as ROS 17/2.8, in which the C-24 oxidation pathway is not expressed.

Nongenomic effects of 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3)

The hormonally active form of vitamin D, 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3), is the key molecule of the vitamin D endocrine system, which produces biological effects in about 30 target cell systems. Growing experimental evidence supports the hypothesis that these biological effects can be generated both by a signal transduction mechanism involving a nuclear receptor (nVDR) that modulates gene transcription, and via a nongenomic receptor located in the plasma membrane (mVDR), which modulates a complex signaling system involving the rapid opening of Ca(2+) channels. Some data reviewed herein also indicate that crosstalk between genomic and nongenomic pathways operates in several cell types, and suggest that the physiological role of the rapid, nongenomic actions might involve the regulation of hormone-mediated gene activation.

1alpha,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 signaling in chick enterocytes: enhancement of tyrosine phosphorylation and rapid stimulation of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase

The steroid hormone 1alpha,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 (1alpha,25(OH)2D3) generates biological responses in intestinal and other cells via both genomic and rapid, nongenomic signal transduction pathways. We examined the hypothesis that 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 action in chick enterocytes may be linked to pathways involving tyrosine phosphorylation. Brief exposure of isolated chick enterocytes to 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 demonstrated increased tyrosine phosphorylation of several cellular proteins (antiphosphotyrosine immunoblots of whole cell lysates) with prominent bands at 42-44, 55-60, and 105-120 Kda. The 42-44 Kda bands comigrated with mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase (immunoblotting with anti-MAP kinase antibody) The response occurred within 30 s, peaked at 1 min, and was dose-dependent (0.01-10 nM), with maximal stimulation at 1 nM (three- to fivefold). This effect was specific for 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 since its metabolic precursors 25(OH)D3 and vitamin D3 did not increase MAP kinase tyrosine phosphorylation. The tyrosine kinase inhibitor, genistein, blocked 1alpha,25(OH)2D3-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of MAP kinase, while staurosporine, a PKC inhibitor, attenuated the hormone's effects by 30%. We have evaluated the ability of 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 analogs, which have complete flexibility around the 6,7 carbon-carbon bond (6F) or which are locked in either the 6-s-cis (6C) or the 6-s-trans (6T) shape(s), to activate MAP kinase. Thus, two 6F and one 6C analog stimulated while one 6T analog did not stimulate MAP kinase tyrosine phosphorylation. In addition, 1beta,25(OH)2D3, a known antagonist of 1alpha,25(OH)2D3-mediated rapid responses, blocked the hormone effects on MAP kinase. We conclude that 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 and analogs which can achieve the 6-s-cis shape (6F and 6C) can increase tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of MAP kinase in chick enterocytes.

The human analog of murine cystein rich protein 61 [correction of 16] is a 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 responsive immediate early gene in human fetal osteoblasts: regulation by cytokines, growth factors, and serum

1Alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25-(OH)2D3) is a potent mediator of differentiation and maintenance of specific functions of osteoblasts. To detect novel targets for 1,25-(OH)2D3 action, we applied differential display PCR to human fetal osteoblast-like cells and identified the human analog of murine cystein rich protein 61 (hCYR61) as a 1,25-(OH)2D3-responsive immediate early gene in differentiated fetal osteoblast-like cells. The murine gene CYR61 is important for cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, and it belongs to an emerging gene family of cysteine-rich proteins. hCYR61 messenger RNA (mRNA) steady-state levels were stimulated 11-fold by 10 nM 1,25-(OH)2D3 by 1 h and declined to control levels by 4 h. This transient stimulation of hCYR61 mRNA was not inhibited by cycloheximide but was prevented by actinomycin D, indicating that the 1,25-(OH)2D3 effect involves transcriptional events and does not require de novo protein synthesis. hCYR61 mRNA stability was not influenced by 1,25(OH)2D3, whereas cycloheximide treatment stabilized hCYR61 mRNA. FCS, as well as growth factors and cytokines such as basic fibroblast growth factor, epidermal growth factor, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and interleukin-1, strongly elevated hCYR61 mRNA steady-state levels within 1 h. hCYR61 mRNA was expressed also in primary human osteoblasts and osteosarcoma cell lines. Using a commercial tissue blot, hCYR61 mRNA was only observed in skeletal muscle. The fast and transient response of hCYR 61 to 1,25-(OH)2D3, serum, growth factors, and cytokines suggests an important role of hCYR61 for osteoblast function and differentiation.

Identification by differential display PCR of the selenoprotein thioredoxin reductase as a 1 alpha,25(OH)2-vitamin D3-responsive gene in human osteoblasts--regulation by selenite

1 alpha, 25(OH)2 vitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) is a potent hormone, stimulating bone cell growth and differentiation. In order to detect novel targets for 1,25(OH)2D3 action, we applied differential display PCR (ddPCR) to human fetal osteoblasts (FOB cells). By ddPCR analysis, we identified the selenoprotein thioredoxin reductase (TRR) as a 1,25(OH)2D3-responsive gene. In FOB cells, the response of TRR mRNA steady state levels to 1,25(OH)2D3 was fast and transient. Maximal stimulation was observed after one hour of 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment, thereafter TRR steady state mRNA levels declined to control levels. This transient response of TRR mRNA was not reflected at the TRR enzyme activity level upon treatment with 1,25(OH)2D3 for up to 48 h. Sodium selenite added to differentiated FOB cells increased TRR enzyme activity 2.6-fold, whereas no selenite effect on TRR mRNA steady state levels was measurable. Our data might provide a link between the induction of a differentiation program by 1,25(OH)2D3 and the expression of the selenium responsive TRR system in human osteoblasts.

EB 1089, a novel vitamin D analog with strong antiproliferative and differentiation-inducing effects on target cells

The physiologically active form of vitamin D, 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, plays an important role not only in the establishment and maintenance of calcium metabolism, but also in regulating cell growth and differentiation. As the clinical usefulness of 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 is limited by its tendency to cause hypercalcemia, new analogs with a better therapeutic profile have been synthesized. One of these new synthetic vitamin D analogs is EB 1089, which is characterized by an altered side chain structure featuring 26,27-dimethyl groups and two double bonds. This analog has been shown to be more potent than 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 in inhibiting proliferation, stimulating differentiation, and inducing apoptosis in a number of different cell types, including cancer cells. Despite being more potent than 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 with respect to its cell regulatory effects, EB 1089 displays weaker calcemic side-effects. These characteristics make EB 1089 a potentially useful compound for the treatment of a diversity of clinical disorders, including cancer and metabolic bone diseases. A promising phase I study with EB 1089 in patients with advanced breast and colon cancer has already been carried out, and more clinical trials evaluating the clinical effectiveness of EB 1089 in other types of cancer are in progress.

Promotion of HL-60 cell differentiation by 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 regulation of protein kinase C levels and activity

The hormone 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25-(OH)2D3] promotes differentiation of a number of cell types including HL-60 promyelocytic leukemia cells. It is now established that protein kinase Cbeta (PKCbeta) plays a critical role in HL-60 cell maturation to a monocyte/macrophage phenotype. In the present study, we investigated the importance of PKCbeta levels and activation in 1,25-(OH)2D3-mediated differentiation of HL-60 cells. Cell differentiation promoted by 1,25-(OH)2D3 at 48 hr was 39 +/- 3% (mean +/- SEM) nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) positive and at 72 hr it was 35 +/- 2% NBT positive and 70% CD14 positive. Thus, promotion of cell differentiation by 20 nM 1,25-(OH)2D3 treatment was maximal at 48-72 hr. When PKCbeta levels and cell differentiation were assayed at 72 hr, treatment with 20 nM 1,25-(OH)2D3 for the initial 6 hr increased PKCbeta levels by 175% but had little effect on cell differentiation (7 +/- 2% NBT positive; 11% CD14 positive). The effect of ionomycin, a calcium ionophore, on PKCbeta levels and cell differentiation also was examined. Alone, 5 microM ionomycin promoted few cells (3% CD14 positive) to differentiate. In contrast, cells treated with 5 microM ionomycin for 66 hr after a 6-hr pretreatment with 20 nM 1,25-(OH)2D3 resulted in 34 +/- 5% NBT positive cells and 73% CD14 positive cells. Quantitatively, this induction of differentiation was identical to that observed in cultures continuously treated with 1,25-(OH)2D3 (35 +/- 2% NBT positive; 70% CD14 positive). Therefore, ionomycin seemed to replace the requirement for the continuous presence of 1,25-(OH)2D3. Chelerythrine chloride (3 microM), a specific PKC inhibitor, blocked differentiation promoted by 1,25-(OH)2D3 alone (82 +/- 2% inhibition) or in sequence with ionomycin (86 +/- 3% inhibition). Taken together, our data show that the capacity of 1,25-(OH)2D3 to both increase PKCbeta levels and activate PKC is utilized to promote HL-60 cell differentiation. These data further suggest that 1,25-(OH)2D3 has a genomic action to increase PKCbeta levels and also a nongenomic action requiring its continuous presence to promote HL-60 cell differentiation.

Functional conformations of the nuclear 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 receptor

The nuclear hormone 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (VD) has important cell regulatory functions. Various synthetic VD analogues are under investigation to identify candidates with an improved therapeutic profile against hyperproliferative diseases. VD directly activates the transcription factor VD receptor (VDR), which in turn stimulates the expression of a cascade of primary and secondary VD-responsive genes. The activation of the VDR through binding of its natural and synthetic ligands is linked to a conformational change presenting the interface with co-activator proteins, referred to as the (trans)activation function 2 (AF-2) domain. Multiple conformations of the VDR might be the key to understanding a selective action of VD analogues. The method of limited protease digestion was used here to characterize up to three different functional VDR conformations stabilized individually by VD and its analogues. The relative potency of VDR ligands can be quantified in the interaction with these VDR conformations by determination of a functional dissociation constant, where a two-concentration-point comparison has already provided important information. In this way seven amino acid residues in the AF-2 domain have been analysed as potential ligand contact points. Interestingly, residues Phe-422 and Val-418 seem to interact with all tested VDR ligands, whereas VD analogues such as the anti-psoriatic drug MC903 displayed additional contact points within the AF-2 domain. Taken together, limited protease digestion is a powerful method for studying functional VDR conformations and seems to be very appropriate for screening VD analogues.

Functional characterization of a novel type of 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 response element identified in the mouse c-fos promoter

The seco-steroid 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (VD) is known to inhibit cellular proliferation and to induce differentiation as well as programmed cell death (apoptosis). VD is the ligand of the transcription factor VDR, which is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily. Primary VD responding genes contain a VD response element (VDRE), on which VDR binds as a dimeric complex. The main heterodimeric partner of VDR is the retinoid X receptor (RXR) and the majority of the known natural VDREs are formed by a direct repeat of hexameric core binding motifs spaced by 3 nucleotides. Most of the genes carrying DR3-type VDREs are associated with the hormone's classical function, which is the regulation of calcium homeostasis. Recently, it has been found that inverted palindromic arrangements spaced by 9 nucleotides also form functional VDREs. This paper reports the identification of a novel IP9-type VDRE in the mouse c-fos promoter. This elements is bound with high affinity by VDR-RXR heterodimers and responds at 10-fold lower concentrations to the potent anti-proliferative VD analogue EB1089 than to VD. This suggests that VD may be directly involved in the transcriptional regulation of the cell cycle via the activation of the c-fos gene.