Sphingosine 1-phosphate enhances portal pressure in isolated perfused liver via S1P2 with Rho activation

The apoM-S1P axis in hepatic diseases

Liver dysfunction is always accompanied by lipid metabolism dysfunction. Apolipoprotein M (apoM), a member of the apolipoprotein family, is primarily expressed and secreted from the liver. apoM is the main chaperone of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), a small signalling molecule associated with numerous physiologic and pathophysiologic processes. In addition to transport, apoM also influences the biologic effects of S1P. Most recently, numerous studies have investigated the potential role of the apoM-S1P axis in a variety of hepatic diseases. These include liver fibrosis, viral hepatitis B and C infection, hepatobiliary disease, non-alcoholic and alcoholic steatohepatitis, acute liver injury and hepatocellular carcinoma. In this review, the roles of apoM and S1P in the development of hepatic diseases are summarized, and novel insights into the diagnosis and treatment of hepatic diseases are discussed.

Opposing Roles of S1P3 Receptors in Myocardial Function

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a lysophospholipid mediator with diverse biological function mediated by S1P_1–5 receptors. Whereas S1P was shown to protect the heart against ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, other studies highlighted its vasoconstrictor effects. We aimed to separate the beneficial and potentially deleterious cardiac effects of S1P during I/R and identify the signaling pathways involved. Wild type (WT), S1P₂-KO and S1P₃-KO Langendorff-perfused murine hearts were exposed to intravascular S1P, I/R, or both. S1P induced a 45% decrease of coronary flow (CF) in WT-hearts. The presence of S1P-chaperon albumin did not modify this effect. CF reduction diminished in S1P₃-KO but not in S1P₂-KO hearts, indicating that in our model S1P₃ mediates coronary vasoconstriction. In I/R experiments, S1P₃ deficiency had no influence on postischemic CF but diminished functional recovery and increased infarct size, indicating a cardioprotective effect of S1P₃. Preischemic S1P exposure resulted in a substantial reduction of postischemic CF and cardiac performance and increased the infarcted area. Although S1P₃ deficiency increased postischemic CF, this failed to improve cardiac performance. These results indicate a dual role of S1P₃ involving a direct protective action on the myocardium and a cardiosuppressive effect due to coronary vasoconstriction. In acute coronary syndrome when S1P may be released abundantly, intravascular and myocardial S1P production might have competing influences on myocardial function via activation of S1P₃ receptors.

Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Enhances α1-Adrenergic Vasoconstriction via S1P2-G12/13-ROCK Mediated Signaling

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) has been implicated recently in the physiology and pathology of the cardiovascular system including regulation of vascular tone. Pilot experiments showed that the vasoconstrictor effect of S1P was enhanced markedly in the presence of phenylephrine (PE). Based on this observation, we hypothesized that S1P might modulate α₁-adrenergic vasoactivity. In murine aortas, a 20-minute exposure to S1P but not to its vehicle increased the E_max and decreased the EC₅₀ of PE-induced contractions indicating a hyperreactivity to α₁-adrenergic stimulation. The potentiating effect of S1P disappeared in S1P2 but not in S1P3 receptor-deficient vessels. In addition, smooth muscle specific conditional deletion of G_12/13 proteins or pharmacological inhibition of the Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) by Y-27632 or fasudil abolished the effect of S1P on α₁-adrenergic vasoconstriction. Unexpectedly, PE-induced contractions remained enhanced markedly as late as three hours after S1P-exposure in wild-type (WT) and S1P3 KO but not in S1P2 KO vessels. In conclusion, the S1P–S1P2–G_12/13–ROCK signaling pathway appears to have a major influence on α₁-adrenergic vasoactivity. This cooperativity might lead to sustained vasoconstriction when increased sympathetic tone is accompanied by increased S1P production as it occurs during acute coronary syndrome and stroke.

Bile Acid-Activated Receptors: GPBAR1 (TGR5) and Other G Protein-Coupled Receptors

The BA-responsive GPCRs S1PR2 and TGR5 are almost ubiquitously expressed in human and rodent tissues. In the liver, S1PR2 is expressed in all cell types, while TGR5 is predominately found in non-parenchymal cells. In contrast to S1PR2, which is mainly activated by conjugated bile acids (BAs), all BAs serve as ligands for TGR5 irrespective of their conjugation state and substitution pattern.Mice with targeted deletion of either S1PR2 or TGR5 are viable and develop no overt phenotype. In liver injury models, S1PR2 exerts pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic effects and thus aggravates liver damage, while TGR5 mediates anti-inflammatory, anti-cholestatic, and anti-fibrotic effects. Thus, inhibitors of S1PR2 signaling and agonists for TGR5 have been employed to attenuate liver injury in rodent models for cholestasis, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, and fibrosis/cirrhosis.In biliary epithelial cells, both receptors activate a similar signaling cascade resulting in ERK1/2 phosphorylation and cell proliferation. Overexpression of both S1PR2 and TGR5 was found in human cholangiocarcinoma tissue as well as in CCA cell lines, where stimulation of both GPCRs resulted in transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor and triggered cell proliferation as well as increased cell migration and invasiveness.This chapter will focus on the function of S1PR2 and TGR5 in different liver cell types and summarizes current knowledge on the role of these receptors in liver disease models.

Divergent Role of Sphingosine 1-Phosphate in Liver Health and Disease

Two decades ago, sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) was discovered as a novel bioactive molecule that regulates a variety of cellular functions. The plethora of S1P-mediated effects is due to the fact that the sphingolipid not only modulates intracellular functions but also acts as a ligand of G protein-coupled receptors after secretion into the extracellular environment. In the plasma, S1P is found in high concentrations, modulating immune cell trafficking and vascular endothelial integrity. The liver is engaged in modulating the plasma S1P content, as it produces apolipoprotein M, which is a chaperone for the S1P transport. Moreover, the liver plays a substantial role in glucose and lipid homeostasis. A dysfunction of glucose and lipid metabolism is connected with the development of liver diseases such as hepatic insulin resistance, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or liver fibrosis. Recent studies indicate that S1P is involved in liver pathophysiology and contributes to the development of liver diseases. In this review, the current state of knowledge about S1P and its signaling in the liver is summarized with a specific focus on the dysregulation of S1P signaling in obesity-mediated liver diseases. Thus, the modulation of S1P signaling can be considered as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of hepatic diseases.

The Role of Sphingosine-1-Phosphate and Ceramide-1-Phosphate in Inflammation and Cancer

Inflammation is part of our body's response to tissue injury and pathogens. It helps to recruit various immune cells to the site of inflammation and activates the production of mediators to mobilize systemic protective processes. However, chronic inflammation can increase the risk of diseases like cancer. Apart from cytokines and chemokines, lipid mediators, particularly sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and ceramide-1-phosphate (C1P), contribute to inflammation and cancer. S1P is an important player in inflammation-associated colon cancer progression. On the other hand, C1P has been recognized to be involved in cancer cell growth, migration, survival, and inflammation. However, whether C1P is involved in inflammation-associated cancer is not yet established. In contrast, few studies have also suggested that S1P and C1P are involved in anti-inflammatory pathways regulated in certain cell types. Ceramide is the substrate for ceramide kinase (CERK) to yield C1P, and sphingosine is phosphorylated to S1P by sphingosine kinases (SphKs). Biological functions of sphingolipid metabolites have been studied extensively. Ceramide is associated with cell growth inhibition and enhancement of apoptosis while S1P and C1P are associated with enhancement of cell growth and survival. Altogether, S1P and C1P are important regulators of ceramide level and cell fate. This review focuses on S1P and C1P involvement in inflammation and cancer with emphasis on recent progress in the field.

Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Signaling as a Target in Hepatic Fibrosis Therapy

Liver fibrosis is an excess production of extracellular matrix proteins as a result of chronic liver disease which leads to cell death and organ dysfunction. The key cells involved in fibrogenesis are resident hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) which are termed myofibroblasts after activation, acquiring contractile, proliferative, migratory and secretory capability. Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive sphingolipid with well-established effects on angiogenesis, carcinogenesis and immunity. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that this metabolite is involved in the profibrotic inflammatory process through the regulation of pleiotropic cell responses, such as vascular permeability, leukocyte infiltration, cell survival, migration, proliferation and HSCs differentiation to myofibroblasts. S1P is synthesized by sphingosine kinases (SphKs) and many of its actions are mediated by S1P specific cell surface receptors (S1P_1-5), although different intracellular targets of S1P have been identified. Modulation of SphKs/S1P/S1P receptors signaling is known to result in beneficial effects on various in vivo and in vitro models of liver fibrosis. Thus, a better knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved in the modulation of the S1P pathway could help to improve liver fibrosis therapy. In this review, we analyze the effects of the S1P axis on the fibrogenic process, and the involvement of a range of inhibitors or approaches targeting enzymes related to S1P in the abrogation of pathological fibrogenesis. All in all, targeting this pathway offers therapeutic potential in the treatment of hepatic fibrosis.

The effect of sphingosine-1-phosphate on colonic smooth muscle contractility: Modulation by TNBS-induced colitis

Aim

Increased levels of circulating sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) have been reported in ulcerative colitis. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of S1P on colonic smooth muscle contractility and how is it affected by colitis.

Methods

Colonic inflammation was induced by intrarectal administration of trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid. Five days later colon segments were isolated and used for contractility experiments and immunoblotting.

Results

S1P contracted control and inflamed colon segments and the contraction was significantly greater in inflamed colon segments. S1P-induced contraction was mediated by S1PR1 and S1PR2 in control and S1PR2 in inflamed colon segments. S1PR3 did not play a significant role in S1P-induced contractions in control or inflamed colon. S1PR1, S1PR2 and S1PR3 proteins were expressed in colon segments from both groups. The expression of S1PR1 and S1PR2 was significantly enhanced in control and inflamed colon segments, respectively. S1PR3 levels however were not significantly different between the two groups. Nifedipine significantly reduced S1P-induced contraction in control but not inflamed colon segments. Thapsigargin significantly reduced S1P-induced contraction of the inflamed colon. GF 109203X and Y-27632, alone abolished S1P-induced contraction of the control but not inflamed colon segments. Combination of GF 109203X, Y-27632 and thapsigargin abolished S1P-induced contraction of inflamed colon segments.

Conclusion

S1P contracted control colon via S1PR1 and S1PR2 and inflamed colon exclusively via S1PR2. Calcium influx (control) or release (inflamed) and calcium sensitization are involved in S1P-induced contraction. Exacerbated response to S1P in colitic colon segments may explain altered colonic motility reported in patients and experimental models of inflammatory bowel disease.

Sphingosine kinase-1, S1P transporter spinster homolog 2 and S1P2 mRNA expressions are increased in liver with advanced fibrosis in human

The role of sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) in liver fibrosis or inflammation was not fully examined in human. Controversy exists which S1P receptors, S1P1 and S1P3 vs S1P2, would be importantly involved in its mechanism. To clarify these matters, 80 patients who received liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma and 9 patients for metastatic liver tumor were enrolled. S1P metabolism was analyzed in background, non-tumorous liver tissue. mRNA levels of sphingosine kinase 1 (SK1) but not SK2 were increased in livers with fibrosis stages 3-4 compared to those with 0-2 and to normal liver. However, S1P was not increased in advanced fibrotic liver, where mRNA levels of S1P transporter spinster homolog 2 (SPNS2) but not S1P-degrading enzymes were enhanced. Furthermore, mRNA levels of S1P2 but not S1P1 or S1P3 were increased in advanced fibrotic liver. These increased mRNA levels of SK1, SPNS2 and S1P2 in fibrotic liver were correlated with α-smooth muscle actin mRNA levels in liver, and with serum ALT levels. In conclusion, S1P may be actively generated, transported to outside the cells, and bind to its specific receptor in human liver to play a role in fibrosis or inflammation. Altered S1P metabolism in fibrotic liver may be their therapeutic target.

Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Receptor-2 Antagonists: Therapeutic Potential and Potential Risks

The sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) signaling system with its specific G-protein-coupled S1P receptors, the enzymes of S1P metabolism and the S1P transporters, offers a multitude of promising targets for drug development. Until today, drug development in this area has nearly exclusively focused on (functional) antagonists at the S1P₁ receptor, which cause a unique phenotype of immunomodulation. Accordingly, the first-in class S1P₁ receptor modulator, fingolimod, has been approved for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, and novel S1P₁ receptor (functional) antagonists are being developed for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, lupus erythematodes, or polymyositis. Besides the S1P₁ receptor, also S1P₂ and S1P₃ are widely expressed and regulate many diverse functions throughout the body. The S1P₂ receptor, in particular, often exerts cellular functions which are opposed to the functions of the S1P₁ receptor. As a consequence, antagonists at the S1P₂ receptor have the potential to be useful in a contrasting context and different areas of indication compared to S1P₁ antagonists. The present review will focus on the therapeutic potential of S1P₂ receptor antagonists and discuss their opportunities as well as their potential risks. Open questions and areas which require further investigations will be emphasized in particular.

S1P Signaling and De Novo Biosynthesis in Blood Pressure Homeostasis

Initially discovered as abundant components of eukaryotic cell membranes, sphingolipids are now recognized as important bioactive signaling molecules that modulate a variety of cellular functions, including those relevant to cancer and immunologic, inflammatory, and cardiovascular disorders. In this review, we discuss recent advances in our understanding of the role of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptors in the regulation of vascular function, and focus on how de novo biosynthesized sphingolipids play a role in blood pressure homeostasis. The therapeutic potential of new drugs that target S1P signaling is also discussed.

Increased mRNA Levels of Sphingosine Kinases and S1P Lyase and Reduced Levels of S1P Were Observed in Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Association with Poorer Differentiation and Earlier Recurrence

Although sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) has been reported to play an important role in cancer pathophysiology, little is known about S1P and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). To clarify the relationship between S1P and HCC, 77 patients with HCC who underwent surgical treatment were consecutively enrolled in this study. In addition, S1P and its metabolites were quantitated by LC-MS/MS. The mRNA levels of sphingosine kinases (SKs), which phosphorylate sphingosine to generate S1P, were increased in HCC tissues compared with adjacent non-HCC tissues. Higher mRNA levels of SKs in HCC were associated with poorer differentiation and microvascular invasion, whereas a higher level of SK2 mRNA was a risk factor for intra- and extra-hepatic recurrence. S1P levels, however, were unexpectedly reduced in HCC compared with non-HCC tissues, and increased mRNA levels of S1P lyase (SPL), which degrades S1P, were observed in HCC compared with non-HCC tissues. Higher SPL mRNA levels in HCC were associated with poorer differentiation. Finally, in HCC cell lines, inhibition of the expression of SKs or SPL by siRNA led to reduced proliferation, invasion and migration, whereas overexpression of SKs or SPL enhanced proliferation. In conclusion, increased SK and SPL mRNA expression along with reduced S1P levels were more commonly observed in HCC tissues compared with adjacent non-HCC tissues and were associated with poor differentiation and early recurrence. SPL as well as SKs may be therapeutic targets for HCC treatment.

Enhanced sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2 expression underlies female CNS autoimmunity susceptibility

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease of the CNS that is characterized by BBB dysfunction and has a much higher incidence in females. Compared with other strains of mice, EAE in the SJL mouse strain models multiple features of MS, including an enhanced sensitivity of female mice to disease; however, the molecular mechanisms that underlie the sex- and strain-dependent differences in disease susceptibility have not been described. We identified sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2 (S1PR2) as a sex- and strain-specific, disease-modifying molecule that regulates BBB permeability by destabilizing adherens junctions. S1PR2 expression was increased in disease-susceptible regions of the CNS of both female SJL EAE mice and female patients with MS compared with their male counterparts. Pharmacological blockade or lack of S1PR2 signaling decreased EAE disease severity as the result of enhanced endothelial barrier function. Enhanced S1PR2 signaling in an in vitro BBB model altered adherens junction formation via activation of Rho/ROCK, CDC42, and caveolin endocytosis-dependent pathways, resulting in loss of apicobasal polarity and relocation of abluminal CXCL12 to vessel lumina. Furthermore, S1PR2-dependent BBB disruption and CXCL12 relocation were observed in vivo. These results identify a link between S1PR2 signaling and BBB polarity and implicate S1PR2 in sex-specific patterns of disease during CNS autoimmunity.

Antagonism of sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 2 causes a selective reduction of portal vein pressure in bile duct-ligated rodents

Sinusoidal vasoconstriction, in which hepatic stellate cells operate as contractile machinery, has been suggested to play a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of portal hypertension. We investigated whether sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) stimulates contractility of those cells and enhances portal vein pressure in isolated perfused rat livers with Rho activation by way of S1P receptor 2 (S1P(2) ). Rho and its effector, Rho kinase, reportedly contribute to the pathophysiology of portal hypertension. Thus, a potential effect of S1P(2) antagonism on portal hypertension was examined. Intravenous infusion of the S1P(2) antagonist, JTE-013, at 1 mg/kg body weight reduced portal vein pressure by 24% without affecting mean arterial pressure in cirrhotic rats induced by bile duct ligation at 4 weeks after the operation, whereas the same amount of S1P(2) antagonist did not alter portal vein pressure and mean arterial pressure in control sham-operated rats. Rho kinase activity in the livers was enhanced in bile duct-ligated rats compared to sham-operated rats, and this enhanced Rho kinase activity in bile duct-ligated livers was reduced after infusion of the S1P(2) antagonist. S1P(2) messenger RNA (mRNA) expression, but not S1P(1) or S1P(3) , was increased in bile duct-ligated livers of rats and mice and also in culture-activated rat hepatic stellate cells. S1P(2) expression, determined in S1P 2LacZ/+ mice, was highly increased in hepatic stellate cells of bile duct-ligated livers. Furthermore, the increase of Rho kinase activity in bile duct-ligated livers was observed as early as 7 days after the operation in wildtype mice, but was less in S1P 2-/- mice.

CONCLUSION

S1P may play an important role in the pathophysiology of portal hypertension with Rho kinase activation by way of S1P(2) . The S1P(2) antagonist merits consideration as a novel therapeutic agent for portal hypertension.

Sphingosine-1-phosphate as a mediator involved in development of fibrotic diseases

Fibrosis is a pathological process characterized by massive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) such as type I/III collagens and fibronectin that are secreted by an expanded pool of myofibroblasts, which are phenotypically altered fibroblasts with more contractile, proliferative, migratory and secretory activities. Fibrosis occurs in various organs including the lung, heart, liver and kidney, resulting in loss of normal tissue architecture and functions. Myofibroblasts could originate from multiple sources including tissue-resident fibroblasts, epithelial and endothelial cells through mechanisms of epithelial/endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT/EndMT), and bone marrow-derived circulating progenitors called fibrocytes. Emerging evidence in recent years shows that sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) acts on several types of target cells and is engaged in pro-fibrotic inflammatory process and fibrogenic process through multiple mechanisms, which include vascular permeability change, leukocyte infiltration, and migration, proliferation and myofibroblast differentiation of fibroblasts. Many of these S1P actions are receptor subtype-specific. In these actions, S1P has multiple cross-talks with other cytokines, particularly transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ), which plays a major role in fibrosis. The cross-talks include the regulation of S1P production through altered expression and activity of sphingosine kinases in fibrotic lesions, altered expression of S1P receptors, and S1P receptor-mediated transactivation of TGFβ signaling pathway. These cross-talks may give rise to a feed-forward, amplifying loop between S1P and TGFβ, and possibly with other cytokines in stimulating fibrogenesis. Another lysophospholipid mediator lysophosphatidic acid has also been recently implicated in fibrosis. The lysophospholipid signaling pathways represent novel, promising therapeutic targets for treating refractory fibrotic diseases. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Advances in Lysophospholipid Research.

Rho inhibitor prevents ischemia-reperfusion injury in rat steatotic liver

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Hepatic stellate cells are thought to play a role in modulating intrahepatic vascular resistance based on their capacity to contract via Rho signaling. We investigated the effect of a Rho-kinase inhibitor on ischemia-reperfusion injury in the steatotic liver.

METHODS

Steatotic livers, induced by a choline-deficient diet in rats, were subjected to ischemia-reperfusion injury. Hepatic stellate cells isolated from steatotic livers were analyzed for contractility and Rho signaling activity. The portal pressure of the perfused rat liver and the survival rate after ischemia-reperfusion were also investigated.

RESULTS

Hepatic stellate cells from steatotic livers showed increased contractility and upregulation of Rho-kinase 2 compared with those from normal livers. Furthermore, endothelin-1 significantly enhanced the contractility and phosphorylation level of myosin light chain and cofilin in hepatic stellate cells isolated from steatotic livers. A specific Rho-kinase inhibitor, fasudil, significantly suppressed the contractility and decreased the phosphorylation levels of myosin light chain and cofilin. Serum levels of endothelin-1 were markedly increased after IR in rats with steatotic livers, whereas fasudil significantly decreased endothelin-1 serum levels. Rats with steatotic livers showed a significant increase in portal perfusion pressure after ischemia-reperfusion and a significant decrease in survival rate; fasudil treatment significantly reduced these effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Activation of Rho/Rho-kinase signaling in hepatic stellate cells isolated from steatotic livers is associated with an increased susceptibility to ischemia-reperfusion injury. A Rho-kinase inhibitor attenuated the activation of hepatic stellate cells isolated from steatotic livers and improved ischemia-reperfusion injury in steatotic rats.

Plasma concentration of bioactive lipid mediator sphingosine 1-phosphate is reduced in patients with chronic hepatitis C

BACKGROUND

Bioactive lipid mediator S1P has been suggested to play pathophysiological roles in various fields of clinical science as a circulating paracrine mediator. We previously established a reliable method of measuring plasma S1P concentration, and reported that the one in healthy subjects has a gender difference and a correlation with red blood cell (RBC)-parameters, however, the reports of S1P measurements in the blood in patients with a specific disease have been scarce. Because our previous evidence suggests that S1P is involved in liver pathophysiology, we examined plasma S1P concentration in chronic hepatitis C patients.

METHODS

S1P assay was performed using a high-performance liquid chromatography system.

RESULTS

Plasma S1P concentrations were reduced in chronic hepatitis C patients compared with in healthy subjects with the same hemoglobin concentration, irrespective of gender. Among the blood parameters, serum hyaluronic acid concentration, a surrogate marker for liver fibrosis, was most closely and inversely correlated with plasma S1P concentration. Furthermore, plasma S1P concentration decreased throughout the progression of carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis in rats.

CONCLUSIONS

Plasma S1P concentration was reduced in chronic hepatitis C patients, and liver fibrosis might be involved, at least in part, in the mechanism responsible for this reduction.

Sphingosine 1-phosphate regulates regeneration and fibrosis after liver injury via sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 2

Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), a bioactive lipid mediator, stimulates proliferation and contractility in hepatic stellate cells, the principal matrix-producing cells in the liver, and inhibits proliferation via S1P receptor 2 (S1P(2)) in hepatocytes in rats in vitro. A potential role of S1P and S1P(2) in liver regeneration and fibrosis was examined in S1P(2)-deficient mice. Nuclear 5-bromo-2'-deoxy-uridine labeling, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) staining in hepatocytes, and the ratio of liver weight to body weight were enhanced at 48 h in S1P(2)-deficient mice after a single carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)) injection. After dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) administration with a lethal dose, PCNA staining in hepatocytes was enhanced at 48 h and survival rate was higher in S1P(2)-deficient mice. Serum aminotransferase level was unaltered in those mice compared with wild-type mice in both CCl(4)- and DMN-induced liver injury, suggesting that S1P(2) inactivation accelerated regeneration not as a response to enhanced liver damage. After chronic CCl(4) administration, fibrosis was less apparent, with reduced expression of smooth-muscle alpha-actin-positive cells in the livers of S1P(2)-deficient mice, suggesting that S1P(2) inactivation ameliorated CCl(4)-induced fibrosis due to the decreased accumulation of hepatic stellate cells. Thus, S1P plays a significant role in regeneration and fibrosis after liver injury via S1P(2).

Cross-talk between PDGF and S1P signalling elucidates the inhibitory effect and potential antifibrotic action of the immunomodulator FTY720 in activated HSC-cultures

Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) has been shown to be essential in the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), contributing to the onset and development of hepatic fibrosis. Recently, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) has been shown to be a mitogen and stimulator of chemotaxis also for HSCs. Since it has been demonstrated in several cell types that cross-talk between PDGF and S1P signalling pathways occurs, our aim was to investigate the potential antifibrotic effect of FTY720, whose phosphorylated form acts as a potent S1P receptor (S1PR) modulator, on HSCs. FTY720 inhibits cell proliferation and migration after PDGF stimulation on HSCs in a concentration range between 0.1 and 1 muM. By using compounds that block S1P signalling (PTX and VPC23019), we assessed that FTY720 also acts in an S1P receptor-independent way by decreasing the level of tyrosine phosphorylation of PDGF receptor, with subsequent inhibition of the PDGF signalling pathway. In addition, inhibition of sphingosine kinase2 (SphK2), which is responsible for FTY720 phosphorylation, by DMS/siRNA unveils a mechanism of action irrespective of its phosphorylation, in particular decreasing the level of S1P(1) on the plasma membrane. These findings led us to hypothesize a potential use of FTY720 as a potential antifibrotic drug for further clinical application.

Hepatic stellate cells and liver fibrosis

Substantial evidence now exists to recognize hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) as the main matrix-producing cells in the process of liver fibrosis. Liver injury of any etiology will ultimately lead to activation of HSCs, which undergo transdifferentiation to fibrogenic myofibroblast-like cells. Quantitative analysis of HSC activation by immunohistochemistry has been shown to be useful in predicting the rate of progression of liver fibrosis in some clinical situations. In the activation process, transforming growth factor beta is thought to be the main mediator of fibrogenesis and platelet-derived growth factor is the major inducer of HSC proliferation. Different platelet-derived growth factor and transforming growth factor beta inhibitors have been shown to effectively prevent liver fibrosis in animal models and represent promising therapeutic agents for humans.

Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) inhibits monocyte-endothelial cell interaction by regulating of RhoA activity

Recent studies suggest that sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) protects against atherosclerosis. We assessed the effects of S1P on monocyte-endothelial interaction in the presence of inflammatory mediators. Pretreatment of THP-1 cells with S1P abolished Phorbol 12 myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-induced THP-1 cell adhesion to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). S1P inhibited PMA-induced activation of RhoA, but not PKCs. S1P activated p190Rho GTPase activation protein (GAP) only in the presence of PMA, suggesting an inhibitory effect of S1P and PMA to suppress RhoA. In conclusion, S1P inhibited monocyte-endothelial interactions by inhibiting RhoA activity which may explain its anti-atherogenic effects.

The sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor S1P2 triggers hepatic wound healing

Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive sphingolipid produced by sphingosine kinase (SphK1 and 2). We previously showed that S1P receptors (S1P1, S1P2, and S1P3) are expressed in hepatic myofibroblasts (hMF), a population of cells that triggers matrix remodeling during liver injury. Here we investigated the function of these receptors in the wound healing response to acute liver injury elicited by carbon tetrachloride, a process that associates hepatocyte proliferation and matrix remodeling. Acute liver injury was associated with the induction of S1P2, S1P3, SphK1, and SphK2 mRNAs and increased SphK activity, with no change in S1P1 expression. Necrosis, inflammation, and hepatocyte regeneration were similar in S1P2-/- and wild-type (WT) mice. However, compared with WT mice, S1P2-/- mice displayed reduced accumulation of hMF, as shown by lower induction of smooth muscle alpha-actin mRNA and lower induction of TIMP-1, TGF-beta1, and PDGF-BB mRNAs, overall reflecting reduced activation of remodeling in response to liver injury. The wound healing response was similar in S1P3-/- and WT mice. In vitro, S1P enhanced proliferation of cultured WT hMF, and PDGF-BB further enhanced the mitogenic effect of S1P. In keeping with these findings, PDGF-BB up-regulated S1P2 and SphK1 mRNAs, increased SphK activity, and S1P2 induced PDGF-BB mRNA. These effects were blunted in S1P2-/- cells, and S1P2-/- hMF exhibited reduced mitogenic and comitogenic responses to S1P. These results unravel a novel major role of S1P2 in the wound healing response to acute liver injury by a mechanism involving enhanced proliferation of hMF.

Vascular dysfunction in S1P2 sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor knockout mice

There is growing evidence that sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) plays an important role in regulating the development, morphology, and function of the cardiovascular system. There is little data, however, regarding the relative contribution of endogenous S1P and its cognate receptors (referred to as S1P(1-5)) to cardiovascular homeostasis. We used S1P(2) receptor knockout mice (S1P(2)(-/-)) to evaluate the role of S1P(2) in heart and vascular function. There were no significant differences in blood pressure between wild-type and S1P(2)(-/-) mice, measured in awake mice. Cardiac function, evaluated in situ by using a Millar catheter, was also not different in S1P(2)(-/-) mice under baseline or stimulated conditions. In vivo analysis of vascular function by flowmetry revealed decreases in mesenteric and renal resistance in S1P(2)(-/-) mice, especially during vasoconstriction with phenylephrine. In intact aortic rings, the concentration-force relations for both KCl and phenylephrine were right shifted in S1P(2)(-/-) mice, whereas the maximal isometric forces were not different. By contrast, in deendothelialized rings the concentration-force relations were not different but the maximal force was significantly greater in S1P(2)(-/-) aorta. Histologically, there were no apparent differences in vascular morphology. These data suggest that the S1P(2) receptor plays an important role in the function of the vasculature and is an important mediator of normal hemodynamics. This is mediated, at least in part, through an effect on the endothelium, but direct effects on vascular smooth muscle cannot be ruled out and require further investigation.

Signal transduction underlying the vascular effects of sphingosine 1-phosphate and sphingosylphosphorylcholine

Two related lysosphingolipids, sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) and sphingosylphosphorylcholine (SPC) mediate diverse cellular responses through signals transduced by either activation of G-protein coupled receptors or possibly by acting intracellularly. Vascular responses to S1P and SPC measured both in vivo and in dissected vessels show predominantly vasoconstriction with some evidence for vasodilation. Although stimulation with S1P or SPC generally leads to similar vascular responses, the signalling pathways stimulated to produce these responses are often distinct. Nevertheless, mobilization of Ca2+ from intracellular stores and influx of extracellular Ca2+, which both increase [Ca2+]i, occur in response to S1P and SPC. Both mobilization of Ca2+ from intracellular stores and influx of extracellular Ca2+ occur in response to S1P and SPC. As well, both S1P and SPC induce Ca2+-sensitization in vascular smooth muscle which is mediated through Rho kinase activation. In the endothelium, S1P and SPC stimulate the production of the vasodilator, nitric oxide through activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase. This activation occurs through phosphorylation by Akt and through binding of Ca2+-calmodulin upon increased [Ca2+]i. These lysosphingolipids also activate cyclooxygenase-2 which produces prostaglandins with both vasoconstrictor and vasodilator properties. A balance between the signals inducing vasodilation versus the signals inducing vasoconstriction will determine the vascular outcome. Thus, perturbations in S1P and SPC concentrations, relative expression of receptors or downstream signalling pathways may provide a mechanism for pathophysiological conditions such as hypertension. Given this background, recent studies examining a potential role for S1P and SPC in hypertension and vascular dysfunction in aging are discussed.

Effects of exogenous sphinganine, sphingosine, and sphingosine-1-phosphate on relaxation and contraction of porcine thoracic aortic and pulmonary arterial rings

Fumonisin mycotoxicosis in pigs causes a decrease in mean aortic pressure, an increase in mean pulmonary arterial pressure, and increases in serum concentrations of sphinganine (3.2 microM) and sphingosine (1.4 microM). To determine a causal relationship between the hemodynamic changes and sphingolipid alterations, we examined the in vitro effects of sphinganine, sphingosine, and sphingosine-1-phosphate on porcine aortic and pulmonary arterial rings. Both sphinganine and sphingosine relaxed un-contracted and phenylephrine-contracted aortic rings at > or = 10 microM and > or = 1 microM, respectively. Sphingosine (> or = 10 microM) relaxed un-contracted and phenylephrine-contracted pulmonary arterial rings, whereas sphingosine-1-phosphate (10 microM) contracted pulmonary arterial rings. Sphingosine (3 microM) also impaired the contractile response of pulmonary artery rings to 60 mM KCl. The results suggested that the systemic hypotension caused by fumonisin is mediated, in part, by increases in serum sphinganine and sphingosine concentrations, and the pulmonary hypertension is mediated, in part, by increased sphingosine-1-phosphate concentrations.