Reactive oxygen species produced up- or downstream of calcium influx regulate proinflammatory mediator release from mast cells: role of NADPH oxidase and mitochondria

Role of Mitochondria in the Regulation of Effector Functions of Granulocytes

Granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils) are the most abundant circulating cells in the innate immune system. Circulating granulocytes, primarily neutrophils, can cross the endothelial barrier and activate various effector mechanisms to combat invasive pathogens. Eosinophils and basophils also play an important role in allergic reactions and antiparasitic defense. Granulocytes also regulate the immune response, wound healing, and tissue repair by releasing of various cytokines and lipid mediators. The effector mechanisms of granulocytes include the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), degranulation, phagocytosis, and the formation of DNA-containing extracellular traps. Although all granulocytes are primarily glycolytic and have only a small number of mitochondria, a growing body of evidence suggests that mitochondria are involved in all effector functions as well as in the production of cytokines and lipid mediators and in apoptosis. It has been shown that the production of mitochondrial ROS controls signaling pathways that mediate the activation of granulocytes by various stimuli. In this review, we will briefly discuss the data on the role of mitochondria in the regulation of effector and other functions of granulocytes.

Mast Cells as a Potential Target of Molecular Hydrogen in Regulating the Local Tissue Microenvironment

Knowledge of the biological effects of molecular hydrogen (H₂), hydrogen gas, is constantly advancing, giving a reason for the optimism in several healthcare practitioners regarding the management of multiple diseases, including socially significant ones (malignant neoplasms, diabetes mellitus, viral hepatitis, mental and behavioral disorders). However, mechanisms underlying the biological effects of H₂ are still being actively debated. In this review, we focus on mast cells as a potential target for H₂ at the specific tissue microenvironment level. H₂ regulates the processing of pro-inflammatory components of the mast cell secretome and their entry into the extracellular matrix; this can significantly affect the capacity of the integrated-buffer metabolism and the structure of the immune landscape of the local tissue microenvironment. The analysis performed highlights several potential mechanisms for developing the biological effects of H₂ and offers great opportunities for translating the obtained findings into clinical practice.

Targeting active sites of inflammation using inherent properties of tissue-resident mast cells

Mast cells play a pivotal role in initiating and directing host's immune response. They reside in tissues that primarily interface with the external environment. Activated mast cells respond to environmental cues throughout acute and chronic inflammation through releasing immune mediators via rapid degranulation, or long-term de novo expression. Mast cell activation results in the rapid release of a variety of unique enzymes and reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, the increased density of mast cell unique receptors like mas related G protein-coupled receptor X2 also characterizes the inflamed tissues. The presence of these molecules (either released mediators or surface receptors) are particular to the sites of active inflammation, and are a result of mast cell activation. Herein, the molecular design principles for capitalizing on these novel mast cell properties is discussed with the goal of manipulating localized inflammation. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Mast cells are immune regulating cells that play a crucial role in both innate and adaptive immune responses. The activation of mast cells causes the release of multiple unique profiles of biomolecules, which are specific to both tissue and disease. These unique characteristics are tightly regulated and afford a localized stimulus for targeting inflammatory diseases. Herein, these important mast cell attributes are discussed in the frame of highlighting strategies for the design of bioresponsive functional materials to target regions of inflammations.

A Novel Targeted Nanoparticle for Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment: Combined Effect of ROS Depletion and Calcium Overload Inhibition

Survival after severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) depends on minimizing or avoiding secondary insults to the brain. Overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca²⁺ influx at the damaged site are the key factors that cause secondary injury upon TBI. Herein, a TBI-targeted lipid covered radical scavenger nanoparticle is developed to deliver nimodipine (Np) (CL-PPS/Np), in order to inhibit Ca²⁺ influx in neurons by Np and to scavenge ROS in the brain trauma microenvironment by poly(propylene sulfide)₆₀ (PPS₆₀ ) and thus prevent TBI-associated secondary injury. In post-TBI models, CL-PPS/Np effectively accumulates into the wound cavity and prolongs the time of systemic circulation of Np. CL-PPS/Np can markedly protect the integrity of blood-brain barrier, prevent brain edema, reduce cell death and inflammatory responses, and promote functional recovery after TBI. These findings may provide a new therapy for TBI to prevent the spread of the secondary injury.

Mitochondria-targeted triphenylphosphonium-based compounds inhibit FcεRI-dependent degranulation of mast cells by preventing mitochondrial dysfunction through Erk1/2

AIMS

FcεRI-dependent activation and degranulation of mast cells (MC) play an important role in allergic diseases. We have previously demonstrated that triphenylphosphonium (TPP)-based antioxidant SkQ1 inhibits mast cell degranulation, but the exact mechanism of this inhibition is still unknown. This study focused on investigating the influence of TPP-based compounds SkQ1 and C₁₂TPP on FcεRI-dependent mitochondrial dysfunction and signaling during MC degranulation.

MAIN METHODS

MC were sensitized by anti-dinitrophenyl IgE and stimulated by BSA-conjugated dinitrophenyl. The degranulation of MC was estimated by β-hexosaminidase release. The effect of TPP-based compounds on FcεRI-dependent signaling was determined by Western blot analysis for adapter molecule LAT, kinases Syk, PI3K, Erk1/2, and p38. Fluorescent microscopy was used to evaluate mitochondrial parameters such as morphology, membrane potential, reactive oxygen species and ATP level.

KEY FINDINGS

Pretreatment with TPP-based compounds significantly decreased FcεRI-dependent degranulation of MC. TPP-based compounds also prevented mitochondrial dysfunction (drop in mitochondrial ATP level and mitochondrial fission), and decreased Erk1/2 kinase phosphorylation. Selective Erk1/2 inhibition by U0126 also reduced β-hexosaminidase release and prevented mitochondrial fragmentation during FcεRI-dependent degranulation of MC.

SIGNIFICANCE

These findings expand the fundamental understanding of the role of mitochondria in the activation of MC. It also contributes to the rationale for the development of mitochondrial-targeted drugs for the treatment of allergic diseases.

Nutraceutical Aid for Allergies - Strategies for Down-Regulating Mast Cell Degranulation

Interactions of antigens with the mast cell FcεRI-IgE receptor complex induce degranulation and boost synthesis of pro-inflammatory lipid mediators and cytokines. Activation of spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) functions as a central hub in this signaling. The tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1 opposes Syk activity; stimulation of NADPH oxidase by FcεRI activation results in the production of oxidants that reversibly inhibit SHP-1, up-regulating the signal from Syk. Activated AMPK can suppress Syk activation by the FcεRI receptor, possibly reflecting its ability to phosphorylate the FcεRI beta subunit. Cyclic GMP, via protein kinase G II, enhances the activity of SHP-1 by phosphorylating its C-terminal region; this may explain its inhibitory impact on mast cell activation. Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) likewise opposes mast cell activation; H₂S can boost AMPK activity, up-regulate cGMP production, and trigger Nrf2-mediated induction of Phase 2 enzymes - including heme oxygenase-1, whose generation of bilirubin suppresses NADPH oxidase activity. Phycocyanobilin (PCB), a chemical relative of bilirubin, shares its inhibitory impact on NADPH oxidase, rationalizing reported anti-allergic effects of PCB-rich spirulina ingestion. Phase 2 inducer nutraceuticals can likewise oppose the up-regulatory impact of NADPH oxidase on FcεRI signaling. AMPK can be activated with the nutraceutical berberine. High-dose biotin can boost cGMP levels in mast cells via direct stimulation of soluble guanylate cyclase. Endogenous generation of H₂S in mast cells can be promoted by administering N-acetylcysteine and likely by taurine, which increases the expression of H₂S-producing enzymes in the vascular system. Mast cell stabilization by benifuuki green tea catechins may reflect the decreased surface expression of FcεRI.

Regulation of Adrenergic, Serotonin, and Dopamine Receptors to Inhibit Diabetic Retinopathy: Monotherapies versus Combination Therapies

We compared monotherapies and combinations of therapies that regulate G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) with respect to their abilities to inhibit early stages of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in streptozotocin-diabetic mice. Metoprolol (MTP; 0.04-1.0 mg/kg b.wt./day), bromocriptine (BRM; 0.01-0.1 mg/kg b.wt./day), doxazosin (DOX; 0.01-1.0 mg/kg b.wt./day), or tamsulosin (TAM; 0.05-0.25 mg/kg b.wt./day) were injected individually daily for 2 months in dose-response studies to assess their effects on the diabetes-induced increases in retinal superoxide and leukocyte-mediated cytotoxicity against vascular endothelial cells, both of which abnormalities have been implicated in the development of DR. Each of the individual drugs inhibited the diabetes-induced increase in retinal superoxide at the higher concentrations tested, but the inhibition was lost at lower doses. To determine whether combination therapies had superior effects over individual drugs, we intentionally selected for each drug a low dose that had little or no effect on the diabetes-induced retinal superoxide for use separately or in combinations in 8-month studies of retinal function, vascular permeability, and capillary degeneration in diabetes. At the low doses used, combinations of the drugs generally were more effective than individual drugs, but the low-dose MTP alone totally inhibited diabetes-induced reduction in a vision task, BRM or DOX alone totally inhibited the vascular permeability defect, and DOX alone totally inhibited diabetes-induced degeneration of retinal capillaries. Although low-dose MTP, BRM, DOX, or TAM individually had beneficial effects on some endpoints, combination of the therapies better inhibited the spectrum of DR lesions evaluated. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The pathogenesis of early stages of diabetic retinopathy remains incompletely understood, but multiple different cell types are believed to be involved in the pathogenic process. We have compared the effects of monotherapies to those of combinations of drugs that regulate GPCR signaling pathways with respect to their relative abilities to inhibit the development of early diabetic retinopathy.

Review - Nutraceuticals Can Target Asthmatic Bronchoconstriction: NADPH Oxidase-Dependent Oxidative Stress, RhoA and Calcium Dynamics

Activation of various isoforms of NADPH oxidase contributes to the pathogenesis of asthma at multiple levels: promoting hypercontractility, hypertrophy, and proliferation of airway smooth muscle; enabling lung influx of eosinophils via VCAM-1; and mediating allergen-induced mast cell activation. Free bilirubin, which functions physiologically within cells as a feedback inhibitor of NADPH oxidase complexes, has been shown to have a favorable impact on each of these phases of asthma pathogenesis. The spirulina chromophore phycocyanobilin (PhyCB), a homolog of bilirubin’s precursor biliverdin, can mimic the inhibitory impact of biliverdin/bilirubin on NADPH oxidase activity, and spirulina’s versatile and profound anti-inflammatory activity in rodent studies suggests that PhyCB may have potential as a clinical inhibitor of NADPH oxidase. Hence, spirulina or PhyCB-enriched spirulina extracts merit clinical evaluation in asthma. Promoting biosynthesis of glutathione and increasing the expression and activity of various antioxidant enzymes – as by supplementing with N-acetylcysteine, Phase 2 inducers (eg, lipoic acid), selenium, and zinc – may also blunt the contribution of oxidative stress to asthma pathogenesis. Nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) work in various ways to oppose pathogenic mechanisms in asthma; supplemental citrulline and high-dose folate may aid NO synthesis, high-dose biotin may mimic and possibly potentiate NO’s activating impact on soluble guanylate cyclase, and NAC and taurine may boost H₂S synthesis. The amino acid glycine has a hyperpolarizing effect on airway smooth muscle that is bronchodilatory. Insuring optimal intracellular levels of magnesium may modestly blunt the stimulatory impact of intracellular free calcium on bronchoconstriction. Nutraceutical regimens or functional foods incorporating at least several of these agents may have utility as nutraceutical adjuvants to standard clinical management of asthma.

In vitro anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin on mast cell-mediated allergic responses via inhibiting FcεRI protein expression and protein kinase C delta translocation

Allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction when exposed to certain environmental substances. It shows high relation between immunoglobulin E (IgE) binding to a specific receptor (FcεRI), pro-inflammatory cytokines, and mediators with allergic inflammation responses. Curcumin is a yellow pigment isolated from the turmeric. Curcumin possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties as well as exhibits significant chemopreventive activity. This study was aimed to investigate the in vitro assessment of the regulation of curcumin on allergic inflammatory responses on rat basophil leukemia (RBL)-2H3 and human pre-basophils (KU812) cell lines. Curcumin showed the activity against histamine and β-hexosaminidase releases from both IgE-mediated and A23187-induced cells degranulation. The morphological observation also confirmed that curcumin inhibits cells degranulation. IgE-mediated allergic responses and significantly induced mast cells intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Curcumin reduced ROS production from IgE-mediated or A23187-induced cells degranulation. Curcumin also successfully reduced FcεRI expressions and some pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13. Furthermore, curcumin inhibited protein kinase C (PKC)-δ translocation from cytosolic to particulate. These results suggested that curcumin can alleviate both the IgE-mediated and calcium ionosphere A23187-stimulated allergic responses through reducing the release of the allergic mediators.

Propofol Attenuates Airway Inflammation in a Mast Cell-Dependent Mouse Model of Allergic Asthma by Inhibiting the Toll-like Receptor 4/Reactive Oxygen Species/Nuclear Factor κB Signaling Pathway

Propofol, an intravenous anesthetic agent widely used in clinical practice, is the preferred anesthetic for asthmatic patients. This study was designed to determine the protective effect and underlying mechanisms of propofol on airway inflammation in a mast cell-dependent mouse model of allergic asthma. Mice were sensitized by ovalbumin (OVA) without alum and challenged with OVA three times. Propofol was given intraperitoneally 0.5 h prior to OVA challenge. The inflammatory cell count and production of cytokines in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were detected. The changes of lung histology and key molecules of the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/reactive oxygen species (ROS)/NF-κB signaling pathway were also measured. The results showed that propofol significantly decreased the number of eosinophils and the levels of IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-13, and TNF-α in BALF. Furthermore, propofol significantly attenuated airway inflammation, as characterized by fewer infiltrating inflammatory cells and decreased mucus production and goblet cell hyperplasia. Meanwhile, the expression of TLR4, and its downstream signaling adaptor molecules--myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) and NF-κB, were inhibited by propofol. The hydrogen peroxide and methane dicarboxylic aldehyde levels were decreased by propofol, and the superoxide dismutase activity was increased in propofol treatment group. These findings indicate that propofol may attenuate airway inflammation by inhibiting the TLR4/MyD88/ROS/NF-κB signaling pathway in a mast cell-dependent mouse model of allergic asthma.

A Retinoic Acid β2-Receptor Agonist Exerts Cardioprotective Effects

We previously discovered that oral treatment with AC261066, a synthetic selective agonist for the retinoic acid β₂-receptor, decreases oxidative stress in the liver, pancreas, and kidney of mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Since hyperlipidemic states are causally associated with myocardial ischemia and oxidative stress, we have now investigated the effects of AC261066 in an ex vivo ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury model in hearts of two prototypic dysmetabolic mice. We found that a 6-week oral treatment with AC261066 in both genetically hypercholesterolemic (ApoE^-/-) and obese (HFD-fed) wild-type mice exerts protective effects when their hearts are subsequently subjected to I/R ex vivo in the absence of added drug. In ApoE^-/- mice this cardioprotection ensued without hyperlipidemic changes. Cardioprotection consisted of attenuation of infarct size, diminution of norepinephrine (NE) spillover, and alleviation of reperfusion arrhythmias. This cardioprotection was associated with a reduction in oxidative stress and mast cell (MC) degranulation. We suggest that the reduction in myocardial injury and adrenergic activation, and the antiarrhythmic effects, result from decreased formation of oxygen radicals and toxic aldehydes known to elicit the release of MC-derived renin, promoting the activation of the local renin-angiotensin system leading to enhanced NE release and reperfusion arrhythmias. Because these beneficial effects of AC261066 occurred at the ex vivo level following oral drug treatment, our data suggest that AC261066 could be viewed as a therapeutic means to reduce I/R injury of the heart, and potentially also be considered in the treatment of other cardiovascular ailments such as chronic arrhythmias and cardiac failure.

Mitochondria-Targeted Antioxidant SkQ1 (10-(6´-Plastoquinonyl)decyltriphenylphosphonium Bromide) Inhibits Mast Cell Degranulation in vivo and in vitro

The therapeutic effect of mitochondria-targeted antioxidant 10-(6´-plastoquinonyl)decyltriphenylphosphonium bromide (SkQ1) in experimental models of acute inflammation and wound repair has been shown earlier. It was suggested that the antiinflammatory activity of SkQ1 is related to its ability to suppress inflammatory activation of the vascular endothelium and neutrophil migration into tissues. Here, we demonstrated that SkQ1 inhibits activation of mast cells (MCs) followed by their degranulation and histamine release in vivo and in vitro. Intraperitoneal injections of SkQ1 in the mouse air-pouch model reduced the number of leukocytes in the air-pouch cavity and significantly decreased the histamine content in it, as well as suppressing MC degranulation in the air-pouch tissue. The direct effect of SkQ1 on MCs was studied in vitro in the rat basophilic leukemia RBL-2H3 cell line. SkQ1 inhibited induced degranulation of RBL-2H3 cells. These results suggest that mitochondrial reactive oxygen species are involved in the activation of MCs. It is known that MCs play a crucial role in regulation of vascular permeability by secreting histamine. Suppression of MC degranulation by SkQ1 might be a significant factor in the antiinflammatory activity of this mitochondria-targeted antioxidant.

Voltage-Gated Proton Channels as Novel Drug Targets: From NADPH Oxidase Regulation to Sperm Biology

SIGNIFICANCE

Voltage-gated proton channels are increasingly implicated in cellular proton homeostasis. Proton currents were originally identified in snail neurons less than 40 years ago, and subsequently shown to play an important auxiliary role in the functioning of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-generating nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidases. Molecular identification of voltage-gated proton channels was achieved less than 10 years ago. Interestingly, so far, only one gene coding for voltage-gated proton channels has been identified, namely hydrogen voltage-gated channel 1 (HVCN1), which codes for the HV1 proton channel protein. Over the last years, the first picture of putative physiological functions of HV1 has been emerging.

RECENT ADVANCES

The best-studied role remains charge and pH compensation during the respiratory burst of the phagocyte NADPH oxidase (NOX). Strong evidence for a role of HV1 is also emerging in sperm biology, but the relationship with the sperm NOX5 remains unclear. Probably in many instances, HV1 functions independently of NOX: for example in snail neurons, basophils, osteoclasts, and cancer cells.

CRITICAL ISSUES

Generally, ion channels are good drug targets; however, this feature has so far not been exploited for HV1, and hitherto no inhibitors compatible with clinical use exist. However, there are emerging indications for HV1 inhibitors, ranging from diseases with a strong activation of the phagocyte NOX (e.g., stroke) to infertility, osteoporosis, and cancer.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Clinically useful HV1-active drugs should be developed and might become interesting drugs of the future.

Propofol Attenuates Small Intestinal Ischemia Reperfusion Injury through Inhibiting NADPH Oxidase Mediated Mast Cell Activation

Both oxidative stress and mast cell (MC) degranulation participate in the process of small intestinal ischemia reperfusion (IIR) injury, and oxidative stress induces MC degranulation. Propofol, an anesthetic with antioxidant property, can attenuate IIR injury. We postulated that propofol can protect against IIR injury by inhibiting oxidative stress subsequent from NADPH oxidase mediated MC activation. Cultured RBL-2H3 cells were pretreated with antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) or propofol and subjected to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) stimulation without or with MC degranulator compound 48/80 (CP). H2O2 significantly increased cells degranulation, which was abolished by NAC or propofol. MC degranulation by CP further aggravated H2O2 induced cell degranulation of small intestinal epithelial cell, IEC-6 cells, stimulated by tryptase. Rats subjected to IIR showed significant increases in cellular injury and elevations of NADPH oxidase subunits p47(phox) and gp91(phox) protein expression, increases of the specific lipid peroxidation product 15-F2t-Isoprostane and interleukin-6, and reductions in superoxide dismutase activity with concomitant enhancements in tryptase and β-hexosaminidase. MC degranulation by CP further aggravated IIR injury. And all these changes were attenuated by NAC or propofol pretreatment, which also abrogated CP-mediated exacerbation of IIR injury. It is concluded that pretreatment of propofol confers protection against IIR injury by suppressing NADPH oxidase mediated MC activation.

Adrenergic and serotonin receptors affect retinal superoxide generation in diabetic mice: relationship to capillary degeneration and permeability

Reactive oxygen species play an important role in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy. We studied the role of adrenergic and serotonin receptors in the generation of superoxide by retina and 661W retinal cells in high glucose and of the α1-adrenergic receptor (AR) on vascular lesions of the retinopathy in experimentally diabetic C57Bl/6J mice (and controls) after 2 and 8 months. Compared with 5 mM glucose, incubating cells or retinal explants in 30 mM glucose induced superoxide generation. This response was reduced or ablated by pharmacologic inhibition of the α1-AR (a Gq-coupled receptor) or Gs-coupled serotonin (5-HT2, 5-HT4, 5-HT6, and 5-HT7) receptors or by activation of the Gi-coupled α2-AR. In elevated glucose, the α1-AR produced superoxide via phospholipase C, inositol triphosphate-induced Ca(2+) release, and NADPH oxidase, and pharmacologic inhibition of these reactions prevented the superoxide increase. Generation of retinal superoxide, expression of proinflammatory proteins, and degeneration of retinal capillaries in diabetes all were significantly inhibited with daily doxazosin or apocynin (inhibitors of α1-AR and NADPH oxidase, respectively), but increased vascular permeability was not significantly affected. Adrenergic receptors, and perhaps other GPCRs, represent novel targets for inhibiting the development of important features of diabetic retinopathy.

An essential role of NAD(P)H oxidase 2 in UVA-induced calcium oscillations in mast cells

Solar UVA radiation (320-400 nm) is known to have immunomodulatory effects, but the detailed mechanisms involved are not fully elucidated. UVA irradiation has been shown to induce calcium oscillations in rat peritoneal mast cells due to NAD(P)H oxidase (NOX) activation, but the specific NOX isoforms have not been identified. In the present work effects of UVA irradiation were investigated in isolated rat peritoneal mast cells, in cultured rat mast cell line RBL-2H3, and in mouse bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMC). It was found that UVA irradiation by alternate 340/380 nm (3.2-5.6 μW cm(-2)) or by LED (380 nm, 80 μW cm(-2)) induced calcium oscillations in isolated rat peritoneal mast cells, in RBL-2H3, and in BMMC. Such UVA-induced calcium oscillations resembled closely those induced by surface IgE receptor (FcεRI) activation. It was found that RBL-2H3 expressed high levels of gp91(phox) (NOX2), p22(phox), p67(phox), p47(phox), p40(phox), Rac1, Rac2, moderate levels of DUOX2, but did not express NOX1, NOX3, NOX4, or DUOX1. The specific cellular localizations of gp91(phox) (NOX2), p22(phox), p47(phox), p67(phox), p40(phox) and Rac1/2 were confirmed by immunocytochemistry. UVA-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in RBL-2H3 was completely suppressed by the NOX inhibitor diphenyleneiodonium chloride (DPI) or by the antioxidant N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC). siRNA suppression of gp91(phox) (NOX2), p22(phox) and p47(phox) expression inhibited markedly UVA-induced calcium oscillations, ROS and IL-6/LTC4 production in RBL-2H3. Taken together these data indicate that NOX2 plays an essential role in UVA irradiation-induced calcium oscillations, ROS and mediator production in mast cells.

Monascus secondary metabolites monascin and ankaflavin inhibit activation of RBL-2H3 cells

Monascus-fermented products have been used as dietary food and traditional medicine due to their beneficial effects on circulation and digestive systems in Asia for thousands of years. Besides, monascin and ankaflavin, secondary metabolites from Monascus-fermented products, have proven anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. In previous research, monascin and ankaflavin ameliorated ovalbumin-induced airway allergic reaction often used as a type I allergy asthma model. Additionally, mast cells play critical roles in type I allergy. Therefore, RBL-2H3 cells were used as the mast cell model to determine whether the improving effects on asthma of monascin and ankaflavin came from influencing mast cells. PMA and ionomycin are common activators of mast cells because they stimulate the main signaling molecules during mast cell activation. Forty micromolar monascin and ankaflavin inhibited PMA/ionomycin-induced mast cell degranulation and TNF-α secretion through suppressing the phosphorylation of PKC and MAPK family ERK, JNK, and p38. Consequently, monascin and ankaflavin affected the activation of mast cells and may have the potential to improve type I allergy.

Does NETosis Contribute to the Bacterial Pathoadaptation in Cystic Fibrosis?

Significant advances in our understanding of neutrophil biology were made in the past several years. The exciting discovery that neutrophils deploy neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) to catch pathogens paved the way for a series of additional studies to define the molecular mechanisms of NET generation and the biological significance of NETosis in acute and chronic pathologic conditions. This review highlights the latest knowledge regarding NET structures, deployment, and function, with an emphasis on current understanding of NET proteomes, their conservation, and significance in the context of cystic fibrosis (CF), a condition characterized by excessive extracellular DNA/NET presence. We also discuss how our understanding of NETosis yields novel therapeutic approaches and their applicability to CF.

Food allergen--induced mast cell degranulation is dependent on PI3K-mediated reactive oxygen species production and upregulation of store-operated calcium channel subunits

The importance of Ca(2+) influx via store-operated calcium channels (SOCs) leading to mast cell degranulation is well known in allergic disease. However, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. With food-allergic rat model, the morphology of degranulated mast cell was analysed by toluidine blue stain and electron microscope. Ca(2+) influx via SOCs was checked by Ca(2+) imaging confocal microscope. Furthermore, the mRNA and protein expression of SOCs subunits were investigated using qPCR and Western blot. We found that ovalbumin (OVA) challenge significantly increased the levels of Th2 cytokines and OVA-specific IgE in allergic animals. Parallel to mast cell activation, the levels of histamine in serum and supernatant of rat peritoneal lavage solution were remarkably increased after OVA treatment. Moreover, the Ca(2+) entry through SOCs evoked by thapsigargin was increased in OVA-challenged group. The mRNA and protein expressions of SOC subunits, stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) and Orail (calcium-release-activated calcium channel protein 1), were dramatically elevated under food-allergic condition. Administration of Ebselen, a scavenger of reactive oxygen species (ROS), significantly attenuated OVA sensitization-induced intracellular Ca(2+) rise and upregulation of SOCs subunit expressions. Intriguingly, pretreatment with PI3K-specific inhibitor (Wortmannin) partially abolished the production of ROS and subsequent elevation of SOCs activity and their subunit expressions. Taken together, these results imply that enhancement of SOC-mediated Ca(2+) influx induces mast cell activation, contributing to the pathogenesis of OVA-stimulated food allergy. PI3K-dependent ROS generation involves in modulating the activity of SOCs by increasing the expressions of their subunit.

TRPM2 contributes to antigen-stimulated Ca²⁺ influx in mucosal mast cells

Food allergy (FA) is a common allergic disease without any currently available effective drug therapies. Mucosal mast cells (MMCs) play a particularly important role in FA, and the increase in their cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]cyt) is considered to be a principal component of the degranulation process. However, the mechanisms governing Ca(2+) influx remain poorly understood in MMCs. Recent reports have highlighted the functions of the transient receptor potential melastatin 2 (TRPM2) channel in immunocytes, including its role in monocyte chemokine production and macrophage phagocytic activity. Although TRPM2 gene expression has been demonstrated in mast cells, the significance of such expression remains virtually unknown. In this study, we found that antigen-stimulated degranulation was significantly reduced in mucosal-type bone marrow-derived mast cells (mBMMCs) prepared from TRPM2-knockout (TRPM2-KO) mice (TRPM2-KO mBMMCs) and was suppressed following the administration of three TRPM2 inhibitors with different chemical structures, including econazole, flufenamic acid (FFA), and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate. Furthermore, the antigen-stimulated increase in [Ca(2+)]cyt was significantly decreased in TRPM2-KO mBMMCs and was also suppressed by the TRPM2 inhibitors econazole and FFA. In addition, thapsigargin-induced increase in [Ca(2+)]cyt was significantly decreased in TRPM2-KO mBMMCs. These results suggest that TRPM2 may participate in antigen-induced extracellular Ca(2+) influx and subsequent degranulation. In addition, TRPM2 inhibitors were shown to improve food allergic reactions in a mouse model. Together, these results suggest that TRPM2 inhibitors suppress MMC degranulation via regulation of the increase in [Ca(2+)]cyt. Thus, TRPM2 may play a key role in degranulation by modulating intracellular Ca(2+) in MMCs.

Hydrogen peroxide induces cell death in human TRAIL-resistant melanoma through intracellular superoxide generation

Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O2()) are thought to mediate apoptosis induced by death receptor ligands, including tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL). However, the role of H(2)O(2) is controversial, since some evidence suggests that H(2)O(2) acts as an anti-apoptotic factor. Here, we show that exogenously applied H(2)O(2) (30-100 µM) induces cell death in TRAIL-resistant human melanoma cells via intracellular superoxide (O(2)-) generation. H(2)O(2) induced apoptotic or necrotic cell death, depending on the concentration of the oxidant applied; low concentrations of H(2)O(2) preferentially activated the caspase-dependent apoptotic pathway, while high concentrations of H(2)O(2) induced apoptotic and necrotic cell death in a caspase-independent manner. The H(2)O(2)-induced cell death was associated with increased mitochondrial membrane potential collapse and caspase-3/7 activation and ER stress responses including caspase-12 and X-box-binding protein-1 (XBP-1) activation. H(2)O(2) induced intracellular O2- generation even within the mitochondria, while TRAIL did not. The superoxide dismutase mimetic antioxidant MnTBaP [Mn (III) tetrakis (4-benzonic acid) porphyrin chloride] inhibited the H(2)O(2)-induced O(2)- generation, apoptosis and XBP-1 and caspase-12 activation at comparable concentrations. Importantly, H(2)O(2) treatment caused minimal O(2)- generation and apoptosis in normal primary melanocytes. These data show that H(2)O(2) induces endoplasmic reticulum-associated cell death via intracellular O(2)- generation and that malignant melanoma cells are more susceptible than normal cells to this oxidative cell death. The findings suggest that H(2)O(2) has therapeutic potential in the treatment of TRAIL-resistant melanoma.

Targeting cardiac mast cells: pharmacological modulation of the local renin-angiotensin system

Enhanced production of angiotensin II and excessive release of norepinephrine in the ischemic heart are major causes of arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. Mast cell-dependent mechanisms are pivotal in the local formation of angiotensin II and modulation of norepinephrine release in cardiac pathophysiology. Cardiac mast cells increase in number in myocardial ischemia and are located in close proximity to sympathetic neurons expressing angiotensin AT1- and histamine H3-receptors. Once activated, cardiac mast cells release a host of potent pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic cytokines, chemokines, preformed mediators (e.g., histamine) and proteases (e.g., renin). In myocardial ischemia, angiotensin II (formed locally from mast cell-derived renin) and histamine (also released from local mast cells) respectively activate AT1- and H3-receptors on sympathetic nerve endings. Stimulation of angiotensin AT1-receptors is arrhythmogenic whereas H3-receptor activation is cardioprotective. It is likely that in ischemia/reperfusion the balance may be tipped toward the deleterious effects of mast cell renin, as demonstrated in mast cell-deficient mice, lacking mast cell renin and histamine in the heart. In these mice, no ventricular fibrillation occurs at reperfusion following ischemia, as opposed to wild-type hearts which all fibrillate. Preventing mast cell degranulation in the heart and inhibiting the activation of a local renin-angiotensin system, hence abolishing its detrimental effects on cardiac rhythmicity, appears to be more significant than the loss of histamine-induced cardioprotection. This suggests that therapeutic targets in the treatment of myocardial ischemia, and potentially congestive heart failure and hypertension, should include prevention of mast cell degranulation, mast cell renin inhibition, local ACE inhibition, ANG II antagonism and H3-receptor activation.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate induces cytokine production in mast cells by stimulating an extracellular superoxide-mediated calcium influx

The green tea polyphenol (-)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG) has various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-neoplastic, anti- and pro-apoptotic, and neuroprotective effects. Although these are often associated with increased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca(2+) levels, their involvement in biological effects is poorly understood. Here we report that EGCG induces cytokine production in mast cells via Ca(2+) influx and ROS generation. EGCG at concentrations of ≥50 μM induced interleukin-13 and tumor necrosis factor-α production in RBL-2H3 and bone marrow-derived mast cells. The effects were dependent on extracellular Ca(2+), and EGCG induced Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores and Ca(2+) influx. Ca(2+) influx was suppressed by 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, an inhibitor of store-operated Ca(2+) (SOC) channels, including Ca(2+) release-activated Ca(2+) channels and transient receptor potential canonical channels. EGCG failed to induce Ca(2+) influx through SOC channels. EGCG-activated Ca(2+) channels were genetically and pharmacologically distinct from Ca(v)1.2 L-type Ca(2+) channels, another route of Ca(2+) influx into mast cells. EGCG evoked release of superoxide (O(2)(·-)) into the extracellular space. Exogenous superoxide dismutase, but not catalase, inhibited EGCG-evoked Ca(2+) influx and cytokine production, indicating that extracellular O(2)(·-) regulates these events. EGCG can serve as a powerful tool for studying O(2)(·-)-regulated Ca(2+) channels, which may be selectively involved in the regulation of cytokine production but have yet to be elucidated.

Gold activates mast cells via calcium influx through multiple H2O2-sensitive pathways including L-type calcium channels

Heavy metals, including gold, induce severe contact hypersensitivity and autoimmune disorders, which develop through an initial Th2-independent process followed by a Th2-dependent process. It has been shown that mast cell activation plays a role in the Th2-independent process and that gold stimulates histamine release in vitro. However, the mechanisms of the gold-induced mast cell activation remain largely unclear. Here we report that gold directly activates mast cells in a Ca2+-dependent manner. HAuCl4 [Au(III)] at nontoxic concentrations (≤50 μM) induced substantial degranulation and leukotriene C4 secretion in an extracellular Ca2+-dependent manner. Au(III) induced a robust Ca2+ influx but not Ca2+ mobilization from internal stores. Au(III) also stimulated intracellular production of reactive oxygen species, including H2O2, and blockade of the production abolished the mediator release and Ca2+ influx. Au(III) induced Ca2+ influx through multiple store-independent Ca2+ channels, including Cav1.2 L-type Ca2+ channels (LTCCs) and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB)-sensitive Ca2+ channels. The 2-APB-sensitive channel seemed to mediate Au(III)-induced degranulation. Our results indicate that gold stimulates Ca2+ influx and mediator release in mast cells through multiple H2O2-sensitive Ca2+ channels including LTCCs and 2-APB-sensitive Ca2+ channels. These findings provide insight into the roles of these Ca2+ channels in the Th2-independent process of gold-induced immunological disorders.

BLT2 Is upregulated in allergen-stimulated mast cells and mediates the synthesis of Th2 cytokines

Mast cells are effector cells that mediate the allergic response through Ag stimulation of IgE bound to FcεRI. In allergic reactions, cross-linking of the surface receptors for IgE on mast cells results in the synthesis of Th2 cytokines such as IL-4 and IL-13, which are critical for the initiation and progression of the allergic response. Despite the important roles of these cytokines, the signaling mechanism by which Ag stimulation mediates the production of IL-4 and IL-13 in mast cells is not clearly understood. In the present study, we found that Ag-stimulated bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMCs) highly upregulated the expression of BLT2, a leukotriene B(4) receptor, and that blockade of BLT2 with the specific antagonist LY255283 or small interfering RNA knockdown completely abolished the production of Th2 cytokines. Furthermore, BMMCs overexpressing BLT2 showed significantly enhanced production of Th2 cytokines compared with wild-type BMMCs. Additionally, we found that the generation of Nox1-derived reactive oxygen species occurs downstream of BLT2, thus mediating the synthesis of Th2 cytokines. Taken together, our results suggest that the BLT2-Nox1-reactive oxygen species cascade is a previously unsuspected mediatory signaling mechanism to Th2 cytokine production in Ag-stimulated BMMCs, thus contributing to allergic response.

L-type Ca2+ channels: a new player in the regulation of Ca2+ signaling, cell activation and cell survival in immune cells

Ca(2+) is a highly versatile intracellular second messenger in many cell types, and regulates many complicated cellular processes, including cell activation, proliferation and apoptosis. Influx of Ca(2+) from the extracellular fluid is required for sustained elevation of the cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration and full activation of Ca(2+)-dependent processes. It is widely accepted that Ca(2+) release-activated Ca(2+) channels are the major routes of Ca(2+) influx in electrically non-excitable cells, including hematopoietic cells, whereas voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels such as L-type Ca(2+) channels (LTCCs) serve as the principal routes of Ca(2+) entry into electrically excitable cells such as neurons and myocytes. However, recent pharmacological and molecular genetic studies have revealed the existence of functional LTCCs and/or LTCC-like channels in a variety of immune cells including mast cells. In this article, we review recent advances in our understanding of Ca(2+) signaling in immune cells with a special interest in mast cells. We highlight roles for LTCCs in antigen receptor-mediated mast cell activation and survival.

Mitochondrial uncoupling protein 2 inhibits mast cell activation and reduces histamine content

Mast cells are immune effector cells that are involved in allergies and inflammation through the release of mediators such as histamine, PGs, and cytokines. Uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) is a mitochondrial protein that inhibits insulin secretion from beta cells, possibly through down-regulation of reactive oxygen species production. We hypothesized that UCP2 could also regulate mast cell activation. In this study, we show that mouse bone marrow mast cells (BMMCs) and human leukemic LAD2 mast cells express UCP2. BMMCs from Ucp2(-/-) mice exhibited greater histamine release, whereas overexpression of UCP2 in LAD2 cells reduced histamine release after both allergic and nonallergic triggers. Ucp2(-/-) BMMCs also had elevated histamine content and histidine decarboxylase expression. Histamine content was reduced by overexpression of UCP2 or treatment with the mitochondrial-targeted superoxide dismutase-mimetic (TBAP) tetrakis(4-benzoic acid) porphyrin manganese(III). Furthermore, Ucp2(-/-) BMMCs also had greater production of both IL-6 and PGD(2) as well as ERK phosphorylation, which is known to regulate PG synthesis. Intradermal administration of substance P, an activator of skin mast cells, and challenge with DNP-human serum albumin after passive sensitization induced significantly greater vascular permeability in the skin of Ucp2(-/-) mice in vivo. Our results suggest that UCP2 can regulate mast cell activation.

Inhibitory effects of flavonoids isolated from Fragaria ananassa Duch on IgE-mediated degranulation in rat basophilic leukemia RBL-2H3

We isolated the 4 kinds of flavonoids from strawberry 'Nohime' and examined the effect of these flavonoids on the degranulation in RBL-2H3 cells. The flavonoids were found to suppress the degranulation from Ag-stimulated RBL-2H3 cells to different extents. To disclose the inhibitory mechanism of degranulation by flavonoids, we examined their effects on the intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]i) and the intracellular signaling pathway such as Lyn, Syk, and PLCgammas. The intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]i) was elevated by Fc epsilonRI activation, but these flavonoid treatments reduced the elevation of [Ca(2+)]i by suppressing Ca(2+) influx. Kaempferol strongly suppressed the activation of Syk and PLCgammas. It was thus suggested that suppression of Ag-stimulated degranulation by the flavonoids is mainly due to suppression of [Ca(2+)]i elevation and Syk activation. These results suggested that strawberry would be of some ameliorative benefit for the allergic symptoms.

Ragweed pollen-mediated IgE-independent release of biogenic amines from mast cells via induction of mitochondrial dysfunction

Normal functions of mitochondria are required for physiological dynamics of cells, while their dysfunction contributes to development of various disorders including those of immune system. Here we demonstrate that exposure of mast cells to ragweed pollen extract increases production of H(2)O(2) via mitochondrial respiratory complex III. These mitochondrial ROS (mtROS) enhance secretion of histamine and serotonin from mast cells, but not enzymes such as beta-hexosaminidase, independently from FcvarepsilonRI-generated stimuli. The release of biogenic amines is associated with inhibition of secretory granules' H(+)-ATPase activity, activation of PKC-delta and microtubule-dependent motility, and it is independent from intracellular free Ca(2+) levels. To asses differences from IgE-mediated mast cell degranulation we show that mtROS decrease antigen-triggered beta-hexosaminidase release, while they are synergistic with antigen-induced IL-4 production in sensitized cells. Taken together, these data indicate that mitochondrial dysfunction can act independently from adaptive immunity, as well as augments Th2-type responses. Pharmacological maintenance of physiological mitochondrial function could have clinical benefits in prevention and treatment of allergic diseases.

Discrete generations of intracellular hydrogen peroxide and superoxide in antigen-stimulated mast cells: reciprocal regulation of store-operated Ca2+ channel activity

Mast cells and T cells produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) after stimulation with the high-affinity IgE receptor (Fc epsilon RI) and T cell receptor. A growing body of evidence suggests the existence of ROS-regulated intracellular and/or plasma membrane Ca(2+) channels in these cells but their molecular entities remain to be identified. Here, we report that store-operated Ca(2+) channel (SOC) activity is regulated by superoxide (O(2)(*-)) and hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) in mast cells. MnTBaP (Mn(III)tetrakis(4-benzoic acid)porphyrin) and ebselen (2-phenyl-1,2-benziso-selenazol-3(2H)-one) selectively blocked the generation of O(2)(*-) and H(2)O(2), respectively, in antigen-stimulated cells. The H(2)O(2) generation was dependent on the Src family kinase (SFK) and phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) activities but independent of extracellular Ca(2+), and the Fc epsilon RI beta-chain immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif played an essential role. On the other hand, O(2)(*-) generation was strictly dependent on extracellular Ca(2+), but negatively regulated by the SFK and PI3K activities. Inhibition of O(2)(*-) generation resulted in increased H(2)O(2) generation and reduced SOC activity, although it had a minimal effect on endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) store depletion. On the contrary, inhibition of H(2)O(2) generation resulted in increased intracellular O(2)(*-) generation and augmented SOC activity. The findings suggest that O(2)(*-) and H(2)O(2), which are generated by separate signaling pathways/sources, reciprocally regulate SOC activity in mast cells. Such generations of multiple oxidant species and their distinct roles in the regulation of SOC activity may facilitate the fine tuning of Ca(2+) signaling in mast cells.

Ca2+-dependent mast cell death induced by Ag (I) via cardiolipin oxidation and ATP depletion

In genetically susceptible humans and/or experimental animals, ions of heavy metals, Hg (II), Au (III), and Ag (I) have been shown to strongly induce autoimmunity, in which mast cells have been implicated to play a role. Here, we demonstrate that Ag (I) application results in mast cell death through a unique Ca(2+)- and mitochondria-dependent pathway. As cellular susceptibilities to Ag (I) cytotoxicity varied considerably, we analyzed the cell death pathway in the low and high responding cells. In the low responding cells, long application (e.g., 20 h) of Ag (I) at concentrations (>or=30 microM) induced cell death, which was accompanied by mitochondrial membrane depolarization, cyt c release, and caspase-3/7 activation but was not prevented by selective inhibitors of caspase-3/7 and the mitochondrial permeability transition. The cell death was preceded by elevations in the cytoplasmic and mitochondrial Ca(2+) levels, and Ca(2+) responses and cell death were prevented by thiol reagents, including DTT, N-acetylcysteine, and reduced glutathione monoethyl ester. In the high responding cells, Ag (I) evoked considerable cell death by necrosis within 1 h, without inducing caspase activation, and this cell death was reduced significantly by depleting extracellular but not intracellular Ca(2+). Moreover, Ag (I) strongly induced Ca(2+)-dependent CL oxidation and intracellular ATP depletion, both of which were blocked by thiol reagents. These results suggest that Ag (I) activates thiol-dependent Ca(2+) channels, thereby promoting Ca(2+)-dependent CL oxidation, cyt c release, and ATP depletion. This necrotic cell death may play roles in Ag-induced inflammation and autoimmune disorders.

Inhibitory effects of sesquiterpene lactones isolated from Eupatorium chinense L. on IgE-mediated degranulation in rat basophilic leukemia RBL-2H3 cells and passive cutaneous anaphylaxis reaction in mice

Sesquiterpene lactones (SQTLs) have been shown to suppress the degranulation as inferred by histamine release in rat basophilic leukemia RBL-2H3 cells. In this study, we isolated the 9 kinds of SQTLs from Eupatorium chinense L. and examined the effects of these SQTLs on the degranulation in RBL-2H3 cells. The chemical structures of two novel compounds (SQTL-3 and 8) were determined. All the SQTLs suppressed the degranulation from Ag-stimulated RBL-2H3 cells. To disclose the inhibitory mechanism of degranulation by SQTLs, we examined the activation of intracellular signaling molecules such as Lyn, Syk, and PLCgammas and intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]i). None of these SQTLs showed the activation of Syk and PLCgammas. The intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]i) was elevated by Fc epsilonRI activation, but SQTLs treatment reduced the elevation of [Ca(2+)]i by suppressing Ca(2+) influx. Thus, it was suggested that the suppression of Ag-stimulated degranulation by these SQTLs is mainly due to the decreased Ca(2+) influx. Furthermore, in order to clarify the in vivo effect of SQTL-rich extract, we administered SQTL-rich extract to the type I allergic model mice and measured the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) reaction induced by IgE-antigen complex. The SQTLs remarkably suppressed PCA reaction in a dose-dependent manner. Thus, it was suggested that SQTLs would be a candidate as an anti-allergic agent.

L-type Ca2+ channels in mast cells: activation by membrane depolarization and distinct roles in regulating mediator release from store-operated Ca2+ channels

Store-operated Ca(2+) channels (SOCs) are considered to be the principal route of Ca(2+) influx in non-excitable cells. We have previously shown that in mast cells IgE+antigen (Ag) induces a dihydropyridine (DHP)-sensitive Ca(2+) influx independently of Ca(2+) store depletion. Since the DHP receptor is the alpha subunit of L-type Ca(2+) channels (LTCCs), we examined the possible role of LTCCs in mast cell activation. Mast cells exhibited substantial expression of the alpha(1C) (Ca(V)1.2) subunit mRNA and protein on their cell surface. IgE+Ag-induced Ca(2+) influx was substantially reduced by the LTCC inhibitor nifedipine, and enhanced by the LTCC activator (S)-BayK8644, whereas these agents had minimal effects on thapsigargin (TG)-induced Ca(2+) influx. These LTCC-modulating agents regulated IgE+Ag-induced cell activation but not TG-induced cell activation. Inhibition of SOCs by 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate reduced both degranulation and production of cytokines, including interleukin-13 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, whereas LTCC modulation reciprocally regulated degranulation and cytokine production. IgE+Ag, but not TG, induced substantial plasma membrane depolarization, which stimulated a DHP-sensitive Ca(2+) response. Moreover, IgE+Ag-, but not TG-induced mitochondrial Ca(2+) increase was regulated by LTCC modulators. Finally, gene silencing analyses using small interfering RNA revealed that the alpha(1C) (Ca(V)1.2) LTCC mediated the pharmacological effects of the LTCC-modulating agents. These results demonstrate that mast cells express LTCCs, which becomes activated by membrane depolarization to regulate cytosolic and mitochondrial Ca(2+), thereby controlling mast cell activation in a distinct manner from SOCs.

The phosphoinositide 3-kinase-dependent activation of Btk is required for optimal eicosanoid production and generation of reactive oxygen species in antigen-stimulated mast cells

Activated mast cells are a major source of the eicosanoids PGD(2) and leukotriene C(4) (LTC(4)), which contribute to allergic responses. These eicosanoids are produced following the ERK1/2-dependent activation of cytosolic phospholipase A(2), thus liberating arachidonic acid, which is subsequently metabolized by the actions of 5-lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase to form LTC(4) and PGD(2), respectively. These pathways also generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), which have been proposed to contribute to FcepsilonRI-mediated signaling in mast cells. In this study, we demonstrate that, in addition to ERK1/2-dependent pathways, ERK1/2-independent pathways also regulate FcepsilonRI-mediated eicosanoid and ROS production in mast cells. A role for the Tec kinase Btk in the ERK1/2-independent regulatory pathway was revealed by the significantly attenuated FcepsilonRI-dependent PGD(2), LTC(4), and ROS production in bone marrow-derived mast cells of Btk(-/-) mice. The FcepsilonRI-dependent activation of Btk and eicosanoid and ROS generation in bone marrow-derived mast cells and human mast cells were similarly blocked by the PI3K inhibitors, Wortmannin and LY294002, indicating that Btk-regulated eicosanoid and ROS production occurs downstream of PI3K. In contrast to ERK1/2, the PI3K/Btk pathway does not regulate cytosolic phospholipase A(2) phosphorylation but rather appears to regulate the generation of ROS, LTC(4), and PGD(2) by contributing to the necessary Ca(2+) signal for the production of these molecules. These data demonstrate that strategies to decrease mast cell production of ROS and eicosanoids would have to target both ERK1/2- and PI3K/Btk-dependent pathways.

IgE-induced mast cell survival requires the prolonged generation of reactive oxygen species

We show in this study that the ability of five different monomeric IgEs to enhance murine bone marrow-derived mast cell (BMMC) survival correlates with their ability to stimulate extracellular calcium (Ca(2+)) entry. However, whereas IgE+Ag more potently stimulates Ca(2+) entry, it does not enhance survival under our conditions. Exploring this further, we found that whereas all five monomeric IgEs stimulate a less robust Ca(2+) entry than IgE+Ag initially, they all trigger a more prolonged Ca(2+) influx, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and ERK phosphorylation. These prolonged signaling events correlate with their survival-enhancing ability and positively feedback on each other to generate the prosurvival cytokine, IL-3. Interestingly, the prolonged ERK phosphorylation induced by IgE appears to be regulated by a MAPK phosphatase rather than MEK. IgE-induced ROS generation, unlike that triggered by IgE+Ag, is not mediated by 5-lipoxygenase. Moreover, ROS inhibitors, which block both IgE-induced ROS production and Ca(2+) influx, convert the prolonged ERK phosphorylation induced by IgE into the abbreviated phosphorylation pattern observed with IgE+Ag and prevent IL-3 generation. In support of the essential role that IgE-induced ROS plays in IgE-enhanced BMMC survival, we found the addition of H(2)O(2) to IgE+Ag-stimulated BMMCs leads to IL-3 secretion.

Extracellular superoxide released from mitochondria mediates mast cell death by advanced glycation end products

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) accumulate during aging and to higher extents under pathological conditions such as diabetes. Since we previously showed that mast cells expressed the AGE-binding protein, receptor for AGEs (RAGE) on their cell surface, we examined whether AGE affected mast cell survival. Herein, we demonstrate that mast cells undergo apoptosis in response to AGE. Glycated albumin (GA), an AGE, but not stimulation with the high-affinity IgE receptor (FcepsilonRI), can induce mast cell death, as measured by annexin V/propidium iodide double-staining. GA (> or =0.1 mg/ml) exhibited this pro-apoptotic activity in a concentration-dependent manner. GA and FcepsilonRI stimulation increased the cytosolic Ca(2+) levels to a similar extent, whereas GA, but not FcepsilonRI stimulation, caused mitochondrial Ca(2+) overload and membrane potential collapse, resulting in mitochondrial integrity disruption, cytochrome c release and caspase-3/7 activation. In addition, GA, but not FcepsilonRI stimulation, induced extracellular release of superoxide from mitochondria, and this release played a key role in the disruption of Ca(2+) homeostasis. Knockdown of RAGE expression using small interfering RNA abolished GA-induced apoptosis, mitochondrial Ca(2+) overload, and superoxide release, demonstrating that RAGE mediates the GA-induced mitochondrial death pathway. AGE-induced mast cell apoptosis may contribute to the immunocompromised and inflammatory conditions.