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Yu H, Luo C, Linghu R, Yang J, Wu H. Ezrin Contributes to the Damage of Airway Epithelial Barrier Related to Diabetes Mellitus. J Inflamm Res 2024; 17:2609-2621. [PMID: 38689797 PMCID: PMC11060175 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s449487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Diabetes mellitus predisposes individuals to respiratory infections. The airway epithelial barrier provides defense against inhaled antigens and pathogens. Ezrin, is a component of the membrane-cytoskeleton that maintains the cellular morphology, intercellular adhesion, and barrier function of epithelial cells. This study aimed to explore the role of ezrin in airway epithelial barrier damage and correlate its expression and activation with diabetes mellitus. Methods This study was performed in a murine model of diabetes mellitus and with human bronchial epithelial BEAS-2B cells using real-time PCR, Western blotting, immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining. Ezrin was knocked down in BEAS-2B cells using siRNA. Ezrin phosphorylation levels were measured to determine activation status. The integrity of the airway epithelial barrier was assessed in vivo by characterizing morphological structure, and in vitro in BEAS-2B cells by measuring tight junction protein expression, transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) and permeability. Results We demonstrated that ezrin expression levels were lower in the lung tissue and airway epithelium of diabetic mice than those in control mice. The morphological structure of the airway epithelium was altered in diabetic mice. High glucose levels downregulated the expression and distribution of ezrin and connexin 43, reduced the expression of tight junction proteins, and altered the epithelial barrier characteristics of BEAS-2B cells. Ezrin knockdown had effects similar to those of high glucose levels. Moreover, a specific inhibitor of ezrin Thr567 phosphorylation (NSC305787) inhibited epithelial barrier formation. Conclusion These results demonstrate that ezrin expression and activation are associated with airway epithelial damage in diabetes mellitus. These findings provide new insights into the molecular pathogenesis of pulmonary infections in diabetes mellitus and may lead to novel therapeutic interventions for airway epithelial barrier damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongmei Yu
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Cheng Luo
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ru Linghu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital of Chongqing University, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Juan Yang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haiqiao Wu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
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2
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Leighton SE, Wong RS, Lucaciu SA, Hauser A, Johnston D, Stathopulos PB, Bai D, Penuela S, Laird DW. Cx31.1 can selectively intermix with co-expressed connexins to facilitate its assembly into gap junctions. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261631. [PMID: 38533727 PMCID: PMC11058089 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Connexins are channel-forming proteins that function to facilitate gap junctional intercellular communication. Here, we use dual cell voltage clamp and dye transfer studies to corroborate past findings showing that Cx31.1 (encoded by GJB5) is defective in gap junction channel formation, illustrating that Cx31.1 alone does not form functional gap junction channels in connexin-deficient mammalian cells. Rather Cx31.1 transiently localizes to the secretory pathway with a subpopulation reaching the cell surface, which is rarely seen in puncta reminiscent of gap junctions. Intracellular retained Cx31.1 was subject to degradation as Cx31.1 accumulated in the presence of proteasomal inhibition, had a faster turnover when Cx43 was present and ultimately reached lysosomes. Although intracellularly retained Cx31.1 was found to interact with Cx43, this interaction did not rescue its delivery to the cell surface. Conversely, the co-expression of Cx31 dramatically rescued the assembly of Cx31.1 into gap junctions where gap junction-mediated dye transfer was enhanced. Collectively, our results indicate that the localization and functional status of Cx31.1 is altered through selective interplay with co-expressed connexins, perhaps suggesting Cx31.1 is a key regulator of intercellular signaling in keratinocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie E. Leighton
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Robert S. Wong
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Sergiu A. Lucaciu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Alexandra Hauser
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Danielle Johnston
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Peter B. Stathopulos
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Donglin Bai
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Silvia Penuela
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Western's Bone and Joint Institute, The Dr. Sandy Kirkley Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, University Hospital, London, ON N6A 5B9, Canada
- Division of Experimental Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada
| | - Dale W. Laird
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
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3
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Huang Y, Guo W, Zeng Y, Wang X, Fan B, Zhang Y, Yan L, Gu G, Liu Z. Identification and validation of a gap junction protein related signature for predicting the prognosis of renal clear cell carcinoma. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1354049. [PMID: 38454924 PMCID: PMC10919056 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1354049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Gap junction proteins (GJPs) are a class of channel proteins that are closely related to cell communication and tumor development. The objective of this study was to screen out GJPs related prognostic signatures (GRPS) associated with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Materials and Methods GJPs microarray data for ccRCC patients were obtained from The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, along with RNA sequencing data for tumor and paired normal tissues from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. In the TCGA database, least absolute shrinkage and selection Operator (LASSO) and Cox regression models were used to identify GJPs with independent prognostic effects as GRPS in ccRCC patients. According to the GRPS expression and regression coefficient from the multivariate Cox regression model, the risk score (RS) of each ccRCC patient was calculated, to construct the RS prognostic model to predict survival. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) analyses; gene pan-cancer analysis; single gene survival analysis; gene joint effect analysis; functional enrichment analysis; tumor microenvironment (TME) analysis; tumor mutational burden (TMB) analysis; and drug sensitivity analysis were used to explore the biological function, mechanism of action and clinical significance of GRPS in ccRCC. Further verification of the genetic signature was performed with data from the GEO database. Finally, the cytofunctional experiments were used to verify the biological significance of GRPS associated GJPs in ccRCC cell lines. Results GJA5 and GJB1, which are GRPS markers of ccRCC patients, were identified through LASSO and Cox regression models. Low expression of GJA5 and GJB1 is associated with poor patient prognosis. Patients with high-RS had significantly shorter OS and PFS than patients with low-RS (p< 0.001). The risk of death for individuals with high-RS was 1.695 times greater than that for those with low-RS (HR = 1.695, 95%CI= 1.439-1.996, p< 0.001). Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve showed the great predictive power of the RS prognostic model for the survival rate of patients. The area under curve (AUC) values for predicting 1-year, 3-year and 5-year survival rates were 0.740, 0.781 and 0.771, respectively. The clinical column chart was also reliable for predicting the survival rate of patients, with AUC values of 0.859, 0.846 and 0.796 for predicting 1-year, 3-year and 5-year survival, respectively. The GRPS was associated with immune cell infiltration, the TME, the TMB, and sensitivity to chemotherapy drugs. Further in vitro experiments showed that knockdown of GJA5 or GJB1 could promote the proliferation, migration and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and inhibit apoptosis of ccRCC cells. Conclusion GJA5 and GJB1 could be potential biological markers for predicting survival in patients with ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongsheng Huang
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Wenyi Guo
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yuan Zeng
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xinrong Wang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Bohao Fan
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Surgery, Qihe County Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Dezhou, China
| | - Lei Yan
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Gangli Gu
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Zhao Liu
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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4
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Baker KM, Abt M, Doud EH, Oblak AL, Yeh ES. Mapping the Anti-Cancer Activity of α-Connexin Carboxyl-Terminal (aCT1) Peptide in Resistant HER2+ Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:423. [PMID: 38275864 PMCID: PMC10814893 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Connexin 43 (Cx43) is a protein encoded by the GJA1 gene and is a component of cell membrane structures called gap junctions, which facilitate intercellular communication. Prior evidence indicates that elevated GJA1 expression in the HER2-positive (HER2+) subtype of breast cancer is associated with poor prognosis. Prior evidence also suggests that HER2+ breast cancers that have become refractory to HER2-targeted agents have a loss of Cx43 gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC). In this study, a Cx43-targeted agent called alpha-connexin carboxyl-terminal peptide (aCT1) is examined to determine whether GJIC can be rescued in refractory HER2+ breast cancer cells. A proposed mechanism of action for aCT1 is binding to the tight junction protein Zonal Occludens-1 (ZO-1). However, the true scope of activity for aCT1 has not been explored. In this study, mass spectrometry proteomic analysis is used to determine the breadth of aCT1-interacting proteins. The NanoString nCounter Breast Cancer 360 panel is also used to examine the effect of aCT1 on cancer signaling in HER2+ breast cancer cells. Findings from this study show a dynamic range of binding partners for aCT1, many of which regulate gene expression and RNA biology. nCounter analysis shows that a number of pathways are significantly impacted by aCT1, including upregulation of apoptotic factors, leading to the prediction and demonstration that aCT1 can boost the cell death effects of cisplatin and lapatinib in HER2+ breast cancer cells that have become resistant to HER2-targeted agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly M. Baker
- Department of Biology, University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46227, USA;
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Melissa Abt
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Emma H. Doud
- Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Adrian L. Oblak
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Elizabeth S. Yeh
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
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5
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Lucaciu SA, Leighton SE, Hauser A, Yee R, Laird DW. Diversity in connexin biology. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105263. [PMID: 37734551 PMCID: PMC10598745 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Over 35 years ago the cell biology community was introduced to connexins as the subunit employed to assemble semicrystalline clusters of intercellular channels that had been well described morphologically as gap junctions. The decade that followed would see knowledge of the unexpectedly large 21-member human connexin family grow to reflect unique and overlapping expression patterns in all organ systems. While connexin biology initially focused on their role in constructing highly regulated intercellular channels, this was destined to change as discoveries revealed that connexin hemichannels at the cell surface had novel roles in many cell types, especially when considering connexin pathologies. Acceptance of connexins as having bifunctional channel properties was initially met with some resistance, which has given way in recent years to the premise that connexins have multifunctional properties. Depending on the connexin isoform and cell of origin, connexins have wide-ranging half-lives that vary from a couple of hours to the life expectancy of the cell. Diversity in connexin channel characteristics and molecular properties were further revealed by X-ray crystallography and single-particle cryo-EM. New avenues have seen connexins or connexin fragments playing roles in cell adhesion, tunneling nanotubes, extracellular vesicles, mitochondrial membranes, transcription regulation, and in other emerging cellular functions. These discoveries were largely linked to Cx43, which is prominent in most human organs. Here, we will review the evolution of knowledge on connexin expression in human adults and more recent evidence linking connexins to a highly diverse array of cellular functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergiu A Lucaciu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephanie E Leighton
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexandra Hauser
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ryan Yee
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dale W Laird
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
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6
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Zhang X, Wang Y, Cai Z, Wan Z, Aihemaiti Y, Tu H. A gonadal gap junction INX-14/Notch GLP-1 signaling axis suppresses gut defense through an intestinal lysosome pathway. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1249436. [PMID: 37928537 PMCID: PMC10620905 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1249436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions mediate intercellular communications across cellular networks in the nervous and immune systems. Yet their roles in intestinal innate immunity are poorly understood. Here, we show that the gap junction/innexin subunit inx-14 acts in the C. elegans gonad to attenuate intestinal defenses to Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA14 infection through the PMK-1/p38 pathway. RNA-Seq analyses revealed that germline-specific inx-14 RNAi downregulated Notch/GLP-1 signaling, while lysosome and PMK-1/p38 pathways were upregulated. Consistently, disruption of inx-14 or glp-1 in the germline enhanced resistance to PA14 infection and upregulated lysosome and PMK-1/p38 activity. We show that lysosome signaling functions downstream of the INX-14/GLP-1 signaling axis and upstream of PMK-1/p38 pathway to facilitate intestinal defense. Our findings expand the understanding of the links between the reproductive system and intestinal defense, which may be evolutionarily conserved in higher organism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Haijun Tu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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7
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Moore JL, Bhaskar D, Gao F, Matte-Martone C, Du S, Lathrop E, Ganesan S, Shao L, Norris R, Campamà Sanz N, Annusver K, Kasper M, Cox A, Hendry C, Rieck B, Krishnaswamy S, Greco V. Cell cycle controls long-range calcium signaling in the regenerating epidermis. J Cell Biol 2023; 222:e202302095. [PMID: 37102999 PMCID: PMC10140546 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202302095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin homeostasis is maintained by stem cells, which must communicate to balance their regenerative behaviors. Yet, how adult stem cells signal across regenerative tissue remains unknown due to challenges in studying signaling dynamics in live mice. We combined live imaging in the mouse basal stem cell layer with machine learning tools to analyze patterns of Ca2+ signaling. We show that basal cells display dynamic intercellular Ca2+ signaling among local neighborhoods. We find that these Ca2+ signals are coordinated across thousands of cells and that this coordination is an emergent property of the stem cell layer. We demonstrate that G2 cells are required to initiate normal levels of Ca2+ signaling, while connexin43 connects basal cells to orchestrate tissue-wide coordination of Ca2+ signaling. Lastly, we find that Ca2+ signaling drives cell cycle progression, revealing a communication feedback loop. This work provides resolution into how stem cells at different cell cycle stages coordinate tissue-wide signaling during epidermal regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L. Moore
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Dhananjay Bhaskar
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Shuangshuang Du
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Elizabeth Lathrop
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Smirthy Ganesan
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Lin Shao
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Rachael Norris
- Department of Cell Biology, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Nil Campamà Sanz
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karl Annusver
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Kasper
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andy Cox
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Caroline Hendry
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Bastian Rieck
- Helmholtz Pioneer Campus, Helmholtz Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Smita Krishnaswamy
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Applied Mathematics Program, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Program for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Valentina Greco
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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8
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Caruso G, Di Pietro L, Caraci F. Gap Junctions and Connexins in Microglia-Related Oxidative Stress and Neuroinflammation: Perspectives for Drug Discovery. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13030505. [PMID: 36979440 PMCID: PMC10046203 DOI: 10.3390/biom13030505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Microglia represent the immune system of the brain. Their role is central in two phenomena, neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, which are at the roots of different pathologies related to the central nervous system (CNS). In order to maintain the homeostasis of the brain and re-establish the equilibrium after a threatening imbalance, microglia communicate with each other and other cells within the CNS by receiving specific signals through membrane-bound receptors and then releasing neurotrophic factors into either the extracellular milieu or directly into the cytoplasm of nearby cells, such as astrocytes and neurons. These last two mechanisms rely on the activity of protein structures that enable the formation of channels in the membrane, namely, connexins and pannexins, that group and form gap junctions, hemichannels, and pannexons. These channels allow the release of gliotransmitters, such as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and glutamate, together with calcium ion (Ca2+), that seem to play a pivotal role in inter-cellular communication. The aim of the present review is focused on the physiology of channel protein complexes and their contribution to neuroinflammatory and oxidative stress-related phenomena, which play a central role in neurodegenerative disorders. We will then discuss how pharmacological modulation of these channels can impact neuroinflammatory phenomena and hypothesize that currently available nutraceuticals, such as carnosine and N-acetylcysteine, can modulate the activity of connexins and pannexins in microglial cells and reduce oxidative stress in neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Caruso
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Unit of Neuropharmacology and Translational Neurosciences, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0957385036
| | - Lucia Di Pietro
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Scuola Superiore di Catania, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Unit of Neuropharmacology and Translational Neurosciences, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy
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9
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Liu Y, Cao M, Yan X, Cai X, Li Y, Li C, Xue T. Genome-wide identification of gap junction (connexins and pannexins) genes in black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii): Evolution and immune response mechanism following challenge. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 132:108492. [PMID: 36529400 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.108492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Cell-to-cell communication through gap junction channels is very important to coordinate the functions of cells in all multicellular biological tissues. It allows the direct exchange of ions and small molecules (including second messengers, such as Ca2+, IP3, cyclic nucleotides, and oligonucleotides). In this study, a total of 48 members of the gap junction (GJ) protein family were identified from Sebastes schlegelii. In S. schlegelii, GJ proteins were classified into two types, connexin, and pannexin, and then connexins were divided into five subfamilies. The naming of 48 genes was verified through phylogenetic analysis and syntenic analysis. The connexin proteins contained four transmembrane fragments and two extracellular loops, the lengths of the intracellular loop and C-terminal was quite different, and the C-terminal region was highly variable after post-translational modification. PPI analysis showed that GJs interacted with tight junctions, adhesive junctions, and cell adhesions to form a complex network and participated in cell-cell junction organization, ATP binding, ion channel, voltage-gated conduction, wnt signaling pathway, Fc-γ receptor signaling pathway, and DNA replication. In addition, the S. schlegelii GJ protein was highly expressed in intestinal tissues and remarkably regulated after Edwardsiella tarda and Streptococcus iniae infection. The expression of GJs in intestinal cells of S. schlegelii was significantly regulated by LPS and poly (I:C), which was consistent with the results of intestinal tissue stimulation by pathogens. In conclusion, this study can provide valuable information for further research on the function of S. schlegelii GJ proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiping Liu
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Min Cao
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Xu Yan
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Xin Cai
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Yuqing Li
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Chao Li
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China.
| | - Ting Xue
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China.
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10
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Jang DG, Kwon KY, Kweon YC, Kim BG, Myung K, Lee HS, Young Park C, Kwon T, Park TJ. GJA1 depletion causes ciliary defects by affecting Rab11 trafficking to the ciliary base. eLife 2022; 11:81016. [PMID: 36004726 PMCID: PMC9448326 DOI: 10.7554/elife.81016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The gap junction complex functions as a transport channel across the membrane. Among gap junction subunits, gap junction protein α1 (GJA1) is the most commonly expressed subunit. A recent study showed that GJA1 is necessary for the maintenance of motile cilia; however, the molecular mechanism and function of GJA1 in ciliogenesis remain unknown. Here, we examined the functions of GJA1 during ciliogenesis in human retinal pigment epithelium-1 and Xenopus laevis embryonic multiciliated-cells. GJA1 localizes to the motile ciliary axonemes or pericentriolar regions beneath the primary cilium. GJA1 depletion caused malformation of both the primary cilium and motile cilia. Further study revealed that GJA1 depletion affected several ciliary proteins such as BBS4, CP110, and Rab11 in the pericentriolar region and basal body. Interestingly, CP110 removal from the mother centriole was significantly reduced by GJA1 depletion. Importantly, Rab11, a key regulator during ciliogenesis, was immunoprecipitated with GJA1, and GJA1 knockdown caused the mislocalization of Rab11. These findings suggest that GJA1 regulates ciliogenesis by interacting with the Rab11-Rab8 ciliary trafficking pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Gil Jang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Keun Yeong Kwon
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeong Cheon Kweon
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Gyu Kim
- Center for Genomic Integrity, Institute for Basic Science, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungjae Myung
- Center for Genomic Integrity, Institute for Basic Science, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Shik Lee
- School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan Young Park
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Taejoon Kwon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Joo Park
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
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11
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Zhang H, Zhang R, Wang F, Li G, Wen Y, Shan H. Comparative proteomic analysis of PK15 swine kidney cells infected with a pseudorabies pathogenic variant and the Bartha-K/61 vaccine strain. Microb Pathog 2022; 170:105698. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2022.105698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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12
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Guan L, Yang Y, Liang JJ, Miao Y, Shang AY, Wang B, Wang YC, Ding M. ERGIC2 and ERGIC3 regulate the ER-to-Golgi transport of gap junction proteins in metazoans. Traffic 2022; 23:140-157. [PMID: 34994051 DOI: 10.1111/tra.12830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The extremely dynamic life cycle of gap junction connections requires highly efficient intracellular trafficking system especially designed for gap junction proteins, but the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. Here, we identified that the COPII-associated proteins ERGIC2 (ER-Golgi intermediate compartment) and ERGIC3 are specifically required for the efficient intracellular transport of gap junction proteins in both C. elegans and mice. In the absence of Ergic2 or Ergic3, gap junction proteins accumulate in the ER and Golgi apparatus and the size of endogenous gap junction plaques is reduced. Knocking out the Ergic2 or Ergic3 in mice results in heart enlargement and cardiac malfunction accompanied by reduced number and size of connexin 43 (Cx43) gap junctions. Invertebrates' gap junction protein innexins share no sequence similarity with vertebrates' connexins. However, ERGIC2 and ERGIC3 could bind to gap junction proteins in both worms and mice. Characterization of the highly specialized roles of ERGIC2 and ERGIC3 in metazoans reveals how the early secretory pathway could be adapted to facilitate the efficient transport for gap junction proteins in vivo. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liying Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yongzhi Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Jing Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ang Yang Shang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Baolei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Chun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Mei Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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13
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Connexins in the Heart: Regulation, Function and Involvement in Cardiac Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094413. [PMID: 33922534 PMCID: PMC8122935 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins are a family of transmembrane proteins that play a key role in cardiac physiology. Gap junctional channels put into contact the cytoplasms of connected cardiomyocytes, allowing the existence of electrical coupling. However, in addition to this fundamental role, connexins are also involved in cardiomyocyte death and survival. Thus, chemical coupling through gap junctions plays a key role in the spreading of injury between connected cells. Moreover, in addition to their involvement in cell-to-cell communication, mounting evidence indicates that connexins have additional gap junction-independent functions. Opening of unopposed hemichannels, located at the lateral surface of cardiomyocytes, may compromise cell homeostasis and may be involved in ischemia/reperfusion injury. In addition, connexins located at non-canonical cell structures, including mitochondria and the nucleus, have been demonstrated to be involved in cardioprotection and in regulation of cell growth and differentiation. In this review, we will provide, first, an overview on connexin biology, including their synthesis and degradation, their regulation and their interactions. Then, we will conduct an in-depth examination of the role of connexins in cardiac pathophysiology, including new findings regarding their involvement in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, cardiac fibrosis, gene transcription or signaling regulation.
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14
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Natha CM, Vemulapalli V, Fiori MC, Chang CWT, Altenberg GA. Connexin hemichannel inhibitors with a focus on aminoglycosides. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166115. [PMID: 33711451 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Connexins are membrane proteins involved directly in cell-to-cell communication through the formation of gap-junctional channels. These channels result from the head-to-head docking of two hemichannels, one from each of two adjacent cells. Undocked hemichannels are also present at the plasma membrane where they mediate the efflux of molecules that participate in autocrine and paracrine signaling, but abnormal increase in hemichannel activity can lead to cell damage in disorders such as cardiac infarct, stroke, deafness, cataracts, and skin diseases. For this reason, connexin hemichannels have emerged as a valid therapeutic target. Know small molecule hemichannel inhibitors are not ideal leads for the development of better drugs for clinical use because they are not specific and/or have toxic effects. Newer inhibitors are more selective and include connexin mimetic peptides, anti-connexin antibodies and drugs that reduce connexin expression such as antisense oligonucleotides. Re-purposed drugs and their derivatives are also promising because of the significant experience with their clinical use. Among these, aminoglycoside antibiotics have been identified as inhibitors of connexin hemichannels that do not inhibit gap-junctional channels. In this review, we discuss connexin hemichannels and their inhibitors, with a focus on aminoglycoside antibiotics and derivatives of kanamycin A that inhibit connexin hemichannels, but do not have antibiotic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina M Natha
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, and Center for Membrane Protein Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Varun Vemulapalli
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, and Center for Membrane Protein Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Mariana C Fiori
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, and Center for Membrane Protein Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Cheng-Wei T Chang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Guillermo A Altenberg
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, and Center for Membrane Protein Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA.
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15
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Garcia-Vega L, O’Shaughnessy EM, Albuloushi A, Martin PE. Connexins and the Epithelial Tissue Barrier: A Focus on Connexin 26. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10010059. [PMID: 33466954 PMCID: PMC7829877 DOI: 10.3390/biology10010059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Tissues that face the external environment are known as ‘epithelial tissue’ and form barriers between different body compartments. This includes the outer layer of the skin, linings of the intestine and airways that project into the lumen connecting with the external environment, and the cornea of the eye. These tissues do not have a direct blood supply and are dependent on exchange of regulatory molecules between cells to ensure co-ordination of tissue events. Proteins known as connexins form channels linking cells directly and permit exchange of small regulatory signals. A range of environmental stimuli can dysregulate the level of connexin proteins and or protein function within the epithelia, leading to pathologies including non-healing wounds. Mutations in these proteins are linked with hearing loss, skin and eye disorders of differing severity. As such, connexins emerge as prime therapeutic targets with several agents currently in clinical trials. This review outlines the role of connexins in epithelial tissue and how their dysregulation contributes to pathological pathways. Abstract Epithelial tissue responds rapidly to environmental triggers and is constantly renewed. This tissue is also highly accessible for therapeutic targeting. This review highlights the role of connexin mediated communication in avascular epithelial tissue. These proteins form communication conduits with the extracellular space (hemichannels) and between neighboring cells (gap junctions). Regulated exchange of small metabolites less than 1kDa aide the co-ordination of cellular activities and in spatial communication compartments segregating tissue networks. Dysregulation of connexin expression and function has profound impact on physiological processes in epithelial tissue including wound healing. Connexin 26, one of the smallest connexins, is expressed in diverse epithelial tissue and mutations in this protein are associated with hearing loss, skin and eye conditions of differing severity. The functional consequences of dysregulated connexin activity is discussed and the development of connexin targeted therapeutic strategies highlighted.
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16
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Solan JL, Lampe PD. Src Regulation of Cx43 Phosphorylation and Gap Junction Turnover. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10121596. [PMID: 33255329 PMCID: PMC7759836 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The gap junction protein Connexin43 (Cx43) is highly regulated by phosphorylation at over a dozen sites by probably at least as many kinases. This Cx43 “kinome” plays an important role in gap junction assembly and turnover. We sought to gain a better understanding of the interrelationship of these phosphorylation events particularly related to src activation and Cx43 turnover. Using state-of-the-art live imaging methods, specific inhibitors and many phosphorylation-status specific antibodies, we found phospho-specific domains in gap junction plaques and show evidence that multiple pathways of disassembly exist and can be regulated at the cellular and subcellular level. We found Src activation promotes formation of connexisomes (internalized gap junctions) in a process involving ERK-mediated phosphorylation of S279/282. Proteasome inhibition dramatically and rapidly restored gap junctions in the presence of Src and led to dramatic changes in the Cx43 phospho-profile including to increased Y247, Y265, S279/282, S365, and S373 phosphorylation. Lysosomal inhibition, on the other hand, nearly eliminated phosphorylation on Y247 and Y265 and reduced S368 and S373 while increasing S279/282 phosphorylation levels. We present a model of gap junction disassembly where multiple modes of disassembly are regulated by phosphorylation and can have differential effects on cellular signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joell L. Solan
- Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA;
| | - Paul D. Lampe
- Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA;
- Department of Global Health, Pathobiology Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
- Correspondence:
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17
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Zheng L, Chenavas S, Kieken F, Trease A, Brownell S, Anbanandam A, Sorgen PL, Spagnol G. Calmodulin Directly Interacts with the Cx43 Carboxyl-Terminus and Cytoplasmic Loop Containing Three ODDD-Linked Mutants (M147T, R148Q, and T154A) that Retain α-Helical Structure, but Exhibit Loss-of-Function and Cellular Trafficking Defects. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10101452. [PMID: 33080786 PMCID: PMC7602980 DOI: 10.3390/biom10101452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The autosomal-dominant pleiotropic disorder called oculodentodigital dysplasia (ODDD) is caused by mutations in the gap junction protein Cx43. Of the 73 mutations identified to date, over one-third are localized in the cytoplasmic loop (Cx43CL) domain. Here, we determined the mechanism by which three ODDD mutations (M147T, R148Q, and T154A), all of which localize within the predicted 1-5-10 calmodulin-binding motif of the Cx43CL, manifest the disease. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and circular dichroism revealed that the three ODDD mutations had little-to-no effect on the ability of the Cx43CL to form α-helical structure as well as bind calmodulin. Combination of microscopy and a dye-transfer assay uncovered these mutations increased the intracellular level of Cx43 and those that trafficked to the plasma membrane did not form functional channels. NMR also identify that CaM can directly interact with the Cx43CT domain. The Cx43CT residues involved in the CaM interaction overlap with tyrosines phosphorylated by Pyk2 and Src. In vitro and in cyto data provide evidence that the importance of the CaM interaction with the Cx43CT may lie in restricting Pyk2 and Src phosphorylation, and their subsequent downstream effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (L.Z.); (S.C.); (F.K.); (A.T.); (S.B.)
| | - Sylvie Chenavas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (L.Z.); (S.C.); (F.K.); (A.T.); (S.B.)
| | - Fabien Kieken
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (L.Z.); (S.C.); (F.K.); (A.T.); (S.B.)
| | - Andrew Trease
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (L.Z.); (S.C.); (F.K.); (A.T.); (S.B.)
| | - Sarah Brownell
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (L.Z.); (S.C.); (F.K.); (A.T.); (S.B.)
| | - Asokan Anbanandam
- Biomolecular NMR Core Facility, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA;
| | - Paul L. Sorgen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (L.Z.); (S.C.); (F.K.); (A.T.); (S.B.)
- Correspondence: (P.L.S.); (G.S.)
| | - Gaelle Spagnol
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (L.Z.); (S.C.); (F.K.); (A.T.); (S.B.)
- Correspondence: (P.L.S.); (G.S.)
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18
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Guan L, Zhan Z, Yang Y, Miao Y, Huang X, Ding M. Alleviating chronic ER stress by p38-Ire1-Xbp1 pathway and insulin-associated autophagy in C. elegans neurons. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1008704. [PMID: 32986702 PMCID: PMC7544145 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
ER stress occurs in many physiological and pathological conditions. However, how chronic ER stress is alleviated in specific cells in an intact organism is an outstanding question. Here, overexpressing the gap junction protein UNC-9 (Uncoordinated) in C. elegans neurons triggers the Ire1-Xbp1-mediated stress response in an age-dependent and cell-autonomous manner. The p38 MAPK PMK-3 regulates the chronic stress through IRE-1 phosphorylation. Overexpressing gap junction protein also activates autophagy. The insulin pathway functions through autophagy, but not the transcription of genes encoding ER chaperones, to counteract the p38-Ire1-Xbp1-mediated stress response. Together, these results reveal an intricate cellular regulatory network in response to chronic stress in a subset of cells in multicellular organism. The accumulation of unfolded proteins triggers the ER stress response (UPR), which allows cells to fight against fluctuations in protein expression under both physiological and pathological conditions. Severe acute ER stress responses can be induced by drug treatment. However, such intense ER stress rarely occurs ubiquitously in every cell type in vivo. Here, we designed a genetic system in the nematode C. elegans, which allows us to induce ER stress in specific cells, without drug treatment or any other external stimuli, and then to monitor the stress response. The p38 MAPK directly acts on the phosphorylation of IRE-1 to promote the stress response. Meanwhile, the insulin receptor function through autophagy activation to counteract the p38-IRE-1-XBP-1 pathway. Together, these results reveal an intricate cellular regulatory network in response to chronic stress in multicellular organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liying Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (LG); (MD)
| | - Zhigao Zhan
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yongzhi Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xun Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Mei Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (LG); (MD)
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19
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Markmee R, Aungsuchawan S, Tancharoen W, Narakornsak S, Pothacharoen P. Differentiation of cardiomyocyte-like cells from human amniotic fluid mesenchymal stem cells by combined induction with human platelet lysate and 5-azacytidine. Heliyon 2020; 6:e04844. [PMID: 32995593 PMCID: PMC7502343 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Human amniotic fluid mesenchymal stem cells (hAF-MSCs) have been shown to be effective in the treatment of many diseases. Platelet lysate (PL) contains multiple growth and differentiation factors; therefore, it can be used as a differentiation inducer. In this study, we attempted to evaluate the efficiency of human platelet lysate (hPL) on cell viability and the effects on cardiomyogenic differentiation of hAF-MSCs. When treating the cells with hPL, the result showed an increase in cell viability. Expressions of cardiomyogenic specific genes, including GATA4, cTnT, Cx43 and Nkx2.5, were higher in the combined treatment groups of 5-azacytidine (5-aza) and hPL than the expressions of cardiomyogenic specific genes in the control group and in the 5-aza treatment group. In terms of the results of immunofluorescence and immunoenzymatic staining, the highest expressions of cardiomyogenic specific proteins were revealed in combined treatment groups. It can be summarized that hPL may be an effective supporting cardiomyogenic supplementary factor for cardiomyogenic differentiation in hAF-MSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runchana Markmee
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Sirinda Aungsuchawan
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Waleephan Tancharoen
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Suteera Narakornsak
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Peraphan Pothacharoen
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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20
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Cai L, Liu W, Cui Y, Liu Y, Du W, Zheng L, Pi C, Zhang D, Xie J, Zhou X. Biomaterial Stiffness Guides Cross-talk between Chondrocytes: Implications for a Novel Cellular Response in Cartilage Tissue Engineering. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 6:4476-4489. [PMID: 33455172 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c00367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The exquisite cartilage architecture maintains an orderly dynamic equilibrium as a result of the interplay between chondrocyte functions and the unique extracellular matrix (ECM) microenvironment. Numerous studies have demonstrated that extracellular cues, including topological, mechanical, and biochemical properties of the underlying substrates, dictate the chondrocyte behaviors. Consequently, developing advanced biomaterials with the desired characteristics which could achieve the biointerface between cells and the surrounded matrix close to the physiological conditions becomes a great hotspot in bioengineering. However, how the substrate stiffness influences the intercellular communication among chondrocytes is still poorly reported. We used polydimethylsiloxane with varied stiffnesses as a cell culture substrate to elucidate a novel cell-to-cell communication in a collective of chondrocytes. First, morphological images collected using scanning electron microscopy revealed that the tunable substrate stiffnesses directed the changes in intercellular links among chondrocytes. Next, fibronectin, which played a vital role in the connection of ECM components or linkage of ECM to chondrocytes, was shown to be gathered along cell-cell contact areas and was changed with the tunable substrate stiffnesses. Furthermore, transmembrane junctional proteins including connexin 43 (Cx43) and pannexin 1 (Panx1), which are responsible for gap junction formation in cell-to-cell communication, were mediated by the tunable substrate stiffnesses. Finally, through a scrape loading/dye transfer assay, we revealed cell-to-cell communication changes in a living chondrocyte population in response to the tunable substrate stiffnesses via cell-to-cell fluorescent molecule transport. Taken together, this novel cell-to-cell communication regulated by biomaterial stiffness could help us to increase the understanding of cell behaviors under biomechanical control and may ultimately lead to refining cell-based cartilage tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linyi Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wenjing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yujia Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wei Du
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Liwei Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Caixia Pi
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Demao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jing Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xuedong Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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21
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Kotova A, Timonina K, Zoidl GR. Endocytosis of Connexin 36 is Mediated by Interaction with Caveolin-1. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E5401. [PMID: 32751343 PMCID: PMC7432810 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The gap junctional protein connexin 36 (Cx36) has been co-purified with the lipid raft protein caveolin-1 (Cav-1). The relevance of an interaction between the two proteins is unknown. In this study, we explored the significance of Cav-1 interaction in the context of intracellular and membrane transport of Cx36. Coimmunoprecipitation assays and Förster resonance energy transfer analysis (FRET) were used to confirm the interaction between the two proteins in the Neuro 2a cell line. We found that the Cx36 and Cav-1 interaction was dependent on the intracellular calcium levels. By employing different microscopy techniques, we demonstrated that Cav-1 enhances the vesicular transport of Cx36. Pharmacological interventions coupled with cell surface biotinylation assays and FRET analysis revealed that Cav-1 regulates membrane localization of Cx36. Our data indicate that the interaction between Cx36 and Cav-1 plays a role in the internalization of Cx36 by a caveolin-dependent pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kotova
- Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada; (A.K.); (K.T.)
| | - Ksenia Timonina
- Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada; (A.K.); (K.T.)
| | - Georg R. Zoidl
- Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada; (A.K.); (K.T.)
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
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22
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Abstract
Of the 21 members of the connexin family, 4 (Cx37, Cx40, Cx43, and Cx45) are expressed in the endothelium and/or smooth muscle of intact blood vessels to a variable and dynamically regulated degree. Full-length connexins oligomerize and form channel structures connecting the cytosol of adjacent cells (gap junctions) or the cytosol with the extracellular space (hemichannels). The different connexins vary mainly with regard to length and sequence of their cytosolic COOH-terminal tails. These COOH-terminal parts, which in the case of Cx43 are also translated as independent short isoforms, are involved in various cellular signaling cascades and regulate cell functions. This review focuses on channel-dependent and -independent effects of connexins in vascular cells. Channels play an essential role in coordinating and synchronizing endothelial and smooth muscle activity and in their interplay, in the control of vasomotor actions of blood vessels including endothelial cell reactivity to agonist stimulation, nitric oxide-dependent dilation, and endothelial-derived hyperpolarizing factor-type responses. Further channel-dependent and -independent roles of connexins in blood vessel function range from basic processes of vascular remodeling and angiogenesis to vascular permeability and interactions with leukocytes with the vessel wall. Together, these connexin functions constitute an often underestimated basis for the enormous plasticity of vascular morphology and function enabling the required dynamic adaptation of the vascular system to varying tissue demands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Pohl
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; Biomedical Centre, Cardiovascular Physiology, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany; and Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
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Martin EA, Lasseigne AM, Miller AC. Understanding the Molecular and Cell Biological Mechanisms of Electrical Synapse Formation. Front Neuroanat 2020; 14:12. [PMID: 32372919 PMCID: PMC7179694 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2020.00012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review article, we will describe the recent advances made towards understanding the molecular and cell biological mechanisms of electrical synapse formation. New evidence indicates that electrical synapses, which are gap junctions between neurons, can have complex molecular compositions including protein asymmetries across joined cells, diverse morphological arrangements, and overlooked similarities with other junctions, all of which indicate new potential roles in neurodevelopmental disease. Aquatic organisms, and in particular the vertebrate zebrafish, have proven to be excellent models for elucidating the molecular mechanisms of electrical synapse formation. Zebrafish will serve as our main exemplar throughout this review and will be compared with other model organisms. We highlight the known cell biological processes that build neuronal gap junctions and compare these with the assemblies of adherens junctions, tight junctions, non-neuronal gap junctions, and chemical synapses to explore the unknown frontiers remaining in our understanding of the critical and ubiquitous electrical synapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Anne Martin
- Department of Biology, Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States
| | - Abagael M Lasseigne
- Department of Biology, Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States
| | - Adam C Miller
- Department of Biology, Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States
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Totland MZ, Rasmussen NL, Knudsen LM, Leithe E. Regulation of gap junction intercellular communication by connexin ubiquitination: physiological and pathophysiological implications. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:573-591. [PMID: 31501970 PMCID: PMC7040059 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03285-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2019] [Revised: 08/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions consist of arrays of intercellular channels that enable adjacent cells to communicate both electrically and metabolically. Gap junctions have a wide diversity of physiological functions, playing critical roles in both excitable and non-excitable tissues. Gap junction channels are formed by integral membrane proteins called connexins. Inherited or acquired alterations in connexins are associated with numerous diseases, including heart failure, neuropathologies, deafness, skin disorders, cataracts and cancer. Gap junctions are highly dynamic structures and by modulating the turnover rate of connexins, cells can rapidly alter the number of gap junction channels at the plasma membrane in response to extracellular or intracellular cues. Increasing evidence suggests that ubiquitination has important roles in the regulation of endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation of connexins as well as in the modulation of gap junction endocytosis and post-endocytic sorting of connexins to lysosomes. In recent years, researchers have also started to provide insights into the physiological roles of connexin ubiquitination in specific tissue types. This review provides an overview of the advances made in understanding the roles of connexin ubiquitination in the regulation of gap junction intercellular communication and discusses the emerging physiological and pathophysiological implications of these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Zachrisson Totland
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, 0424, Oslo, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Colorectal Cancer Research Centre, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nikoline Lander Rasmussen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, 0424, Oslo, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Colorectal Cancer Research Centre, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Lars Mørland Knudsen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, 0424, Oslo, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Colorectal Cancer Research Centre, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Edward Leithe
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, 0424, Oslo, Norway.
- K.G. Jebsen Colorectal Cancer Research Centre, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
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Evidence of decreased gap junction coupling between astrocytes and oligodendrocytes in the anterior cingulate cortex of depressed suicides. Neuropsychopharmacology 2019; 44:2099-2111. [PMID: 31374562 PMCID: PMC6897926 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-019-0471-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Glial dysfunction is a major pathophysiological feature of mood disorders. While altered astrocyte (AS) and oligodendrocyte-lineage (OL) functions have been associated with depression, the crosstalk between these glial cell types has never been assessed in that context. AS are potent regulators of myelination, in part through gap junction (GJ) channels formed by the heterotypic coupling of AS-specific (Cx30 and Cx43) and OL-specific (Cx32 and Cx47) connexins. This study therefore aimed at addressing the integrity of AS/OL coupling in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) of depressed suicides. Using immunofluorescence and confocal imaging, we characterized the distribution of Cx30 and mapped its expression onto OL somas, myelinated axons, and brain vasculature in postmortem brain samples from depressed suicides (N = 48) and matched controls (N = 23). Differential gene expression of key components of the GJ nexus was also screened through RNA-sequencing previously generated by our group, and validated by quantitative real-time PCR. We show that Cx30 expression localized onto OL cells and myelinated fibers is decreased in deep cortical layers of the ACC in male-depressed suicides. This effect was associated with decreased expression of OL-specific connexins, as well as the downregulation of major connexin-interacting proteins essential for the scaffolding, trafficking, and function of GJs. These results provide a first evidence of impaired AS/OL GJ-mediated communication in the ACC of individuals with mood disorders. These changes in glial coupling are likely to have significant impact on brain function, and may contribute to the altered OL function previously reported in this brain region.
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Esseltine JL, Brooks CR, Edwards NA, Subasri M, Sampson J, Séguin C, Betts DH, Laird DW. Dynamic regulation of connexins in stem cell pluripotency. Stem Cells 2019; 38:52-66. [DOI: 10.1002/stem.3092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L. Esseltine
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry; University of Western Ontario; London Ontario Canada
- Division of BioMedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine; Memorial University of Newfoundland; St. John's Newfoundland and Labrador Canada
| | - Courtney R. Brooks
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry; University of Western Ontario; London Ontario Canada
| | - Nicole A. Edwards
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry; University of Western Ontario; London Ontario Canada
| | - Mathushan Subasri
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry; University of Western Ontario; London Ontario Canada
| | - Jacinda Sampson
- Department of Neurology; Stanford University Medical Center; Palo Alto California
| | - Cheryle Séguin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry; University of Western Ontario; London Ontario Canada
| | - Dean H. Betts
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry; University of Western Ontario; London Ontario Canada
| | - Dale W. Laird
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry; University of Western Ontario; London Ontario Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry; University of Western Ontario; London Ontario Canada
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Wang J, Yang ZY, Guo YF, Kuang JY, Bian XW, Yu SC. Targeting different domains of gap junction protein to control malignant glioma. Neuro Oncol 2019; 20:885-896. [PMID: 29106645 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/nox207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A rational treatment strategy for glioma, the most common primary central nervous system tumor, should focus on early invasive growth and resistance to current therapeutics. Connexin 43 (Cx43), a gap junction protein, plays important roles not only in the development of the central nervous system and but also in the progression of glioma. The different structural domains of Cx43, including extracellular loops, transmembrane domains, and an intracellular carboxyl terminal, have distinct functions in the invasion and proliferation of gliomas. Targeting these domains of Cx43, which is expressed in distinct patterns in the heterogeneous glioma cell population, can inhibit tumor cell invasion and new tumor formation. Thus, this review summarizes the structural characteristics of Cx43, the effects of regulating different Cx43 domains on the biological characteristics of glioma cells, intervention strategies targeting different domains of Cx43, and future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wang
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Pathology of the Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Ze-Yu Yang
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Pathology of the Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Yu-Feng Guo
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Pathology of the Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing-Ya Kuang
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Pathology of the Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiu-Wu Bian
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Pathology of the Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Shi-Cang Yu
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Pathology of the Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
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Markmee R, Aungsuchawan S, Pothacharoen P, Tancharoen W, Narakornsak S, Laowanitwattana T, Bumroongkit K, Puaninta C, Pangjaidee N. Effect of ascorbic acid on differentiation of human amniotic fluid mesenchymal stem cells into cardiomyocyte-like cells. Heliyon 2019; 5:e02018. [PMID: 31360783 PMCID: PMC6639694 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e02018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of ascorbic acid (AA) on cell viability, cytotoxicity and the effects on cardiomyogenic differentiation of the human amniotic fluid mesenchymal stem cells (hAF-MSCs). The results of methylthiazole tetrazolium (MTT) assay and cell apoptosis assay indicated that after 24, 48 and 72 h of treatment, AA had no effect on cells viability and cytotoxicity. After treating the hAF-MSCs with 5-azacytidine (5-aza) and a combination of AA and 5-aza, the alamar blue cells proliferation assay showed the normal growth characteristic similar to control group. Especially, the morphological changes were observed between day 0 and day 21, and it was revealed that the hAF-MSCs exhibited myotube-like morphology after 7 days of cell culturing. Moreover, the treatment with a combination of AA and 5-aza was able to up-regulate the cardiomyogenic specific gene levels, which are known to play an important role in cardiomyogenesis. This was specifically notable with the results of immunofluorescence and immunoenzymatic staining in the AA combined with 5-aza treatment group, the highest expression of cardiomyogenic specific proteins was revealed including for GATA4, cTnT, Cx43 and Nkx2.5. It could be concluded that AA may be a good alternative cardiomyogenic inducing factor for hAF-MSCs and may open new insights into future biomedical applications for a clinically treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runchana Markmee
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Sirinda Aungsuchawan
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Peraphan Pothacharoen
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Waleephan Tancharoen
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Suteera Narakornsak
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | | | - Kanokkan Bumroongkit
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Chaniporn Puaninta
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Nathaporn Pangjaidee
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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Zhao X, Yu C, Zheng M, Sun J. Prognostic value of the mRNA expression of gap junction α members in patients with gastric cancer. Oncol Lett 2019; 18:1669-1678. [PMID: 31423234 PMCID: PMC6614678 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.10516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer remains one of the primary causes of cancer-associated death worldwide. The gap junction α (GJA) family has been demonstrated to be involved in the cellular proliferation and metastasis of gastric cancer. However, the prognostic value of GJA in gastric cancer is yet to be elucidated. In the present study, the overall survival (OS) of patients with gastric cancer and the mRNA expression of GJA family members, including GJA1, GJA3, GJA4, GJA10 and GJA12, were analyzed using 593 patients with gastric cancer from the Kaplan-Meier plotter database. High GJA1 and GJA10 mRNA expression levels were associated with a poorer patient outcome (P=0.0066 and P=0.015, respectively), whereas high mRNA expression levels of GJA4 and GJA12 were associated with longer survival times (P=0.0056 and P=0.0054, respectively). Furthermore, the values of specific prognostic indicators of different subtypes of gastric cancer, including human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 status, Lauren differentiation and tumor stage, were also analyzed. The findings of the present study suggested a potential role for GJA family members in gastric cancer, which warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Chaoran Yu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Minhua Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Jing Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
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Ahmadian E, Eftekhari A, Samiei M, Maleki Dizaj S, Vinken M. The role and therapeutic potential of connexins, pannexins and their channels in Parkinson's disease. Cell Signal 2019; 58:111-118. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2019.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Eser Ocak P, Ocak U, Tang J, Zhang JH. The role of caveolin-1 in tumors of the brain - functional and clinical implications. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2019; 42:423-447. [PMID: 30993541 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-019-00447-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Caveolin-1 (cav-1) is the major structural protein of caveolae, the flask-shaped invaginations of the plasma membrane mainly involved in cell signaling. Today, cav-1 is believed to play a role in a variety of disease processes including cancer, owing to the variations of its expression in association with tumor progression, invasive behavior, metastasis and therapy resistance. Since first detected in the brain, a number of studies has particularly focused on the role of cav-1 in the various steps of brain tumorigenesis. In this review, we discuss the different roles of cav-1 and its contributions to the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathobiology and natural behavior of brain tumors including glial, non-glial and metastatic subtypes. These contributions could be attributed to its co-localization with important players in tumorigenesis within the lipid-enriched domains of the plasma membrane. In that regard, the ability of cav-1 to interact with various cell signaling molecules as well as the impact of caveolae depletion on important pathways acting in brain tumor pathogenesis are noteworthy. We also discuss conversant causes hampering the treatment of malignant glial tumors such as limited transport of chemotherapeutics across the blood tumor barrier and resistance to chemoradiotherapy, by focusing on the molecular fundamentals involving cav-1 participation. CONCLUSIONS Cav-1 has the potential to pivot the molecular basis underlying the pathobiology of brain tumors, particularly the malignant glial subtype. In addition, the regulatory effect of cav-1-dependent and caveola-mediated transcellular transport on the permeability of the blood tumor barrier could be of benefit to overcome the restricted transport across brain barriers when applying chemotherapeutics. The association of cav-1 with tumors of the brain other than malignant gliomas deserves to be underlined, as well given the evidence suggesting its potential in predicting tumor grade and recurrence rates together with determining patient prognosis in oligodendrogliomas, ependymomas, meningiomas, vestibular schwannomas and brain metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinar Eser Ocak
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - Umut Ocak
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - Jiping Tang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - John H Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA. .,Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA. .,Department of Neurology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA. .,Department of Neurosurgery, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA.
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Li C, Liang J, Chen P, Zeng K, Xue R, Tian X, Liang L, Wang Q, Shi M, Zhang X. Two de novo GJA1 mutation in two sporadic patients with erythrokeratodermia variabilis et progressiva. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2019; 7:e670. [PMID: 30924322 PMCID: PMC6565561 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Erythrokeratodermia variabilis et progressiva (EKVP, OMIM 133200) is a rare hereditary disorder characterized by varies from transient, fast moving erythema to persistent brown hyperkeratotic plaques. Recently, mutations in the genes gap junction alpha 1 gene (GJA1), GJB3, and GJB4 have been reported to cause EKVP. Here, we report the identification of two de novo missense mutations in the GJA1 gene in two unrelated individuals with EKVP. Methods The patients and his family members were subjected to mutation detection in the candidate gene GJA1, GJB3, and GJB4 by Sanger sequencing. The expression of connexin (Cx) 43 was detected by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence (IF) studies in the lesions. Results A 12‐year‐old boy presented with multiple hyperkeratotic plaques on the face, neck, elbows, wrists, limbs, knees, inguinal region, hands, and feet. A 7‐year‐old girl presented with symmetrical erythematous, plaques on the hands, feet, wrists, and ankles. A novel heterozygous missense mutation c.848C > T (p.P283L) in exon 2 of the GJA1 gene was identified in both patients. A novel heterozygous missense mutation c.869C > A (p.T290N) in exon 2 of the GJA1 gene was also identified in the boy. These mutations were not found in the unaffected family members and 100 normal controls. In the patients’ lesions, Cx43 protein was located to the cytomembrane and cytoplasm in the stratum corneum, and granular layer. Compound heterozygous mutations in the boy showed a more severe clinical phenotype and cytoplasmic mislocalization. Conclusions The novel mutations c.848C > T (p.P283L) and c.869C > A(p.T290N) arose de novo and were considered as the cause of two Chinese EKVP. GJA1 P283L and T290N mutations lead to Cx43 protein cytoplasmic mislocalization. Our finding expands the mutant spectrum of GJA1 gene and adds new understanding of the genotype‐phenotype correlation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changxing Li
- Department of Dermatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingyao Liang
- Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou Institute of Dermatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pingjiao Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kang Zeng
- Department of Dermatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rujun Xue
- Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou Institute of Dermatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Tian
- Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou Institute of Dermatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liuping Liang
- Department of Dermatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Minglan Shi
- Department of Dermatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xibao Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou Institute of Dermatology, Guangzhou, China
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Aftab Q, Mesnil M, Ojefua E, Poole A, Noordenbos J, Strale PO, Sitko C, Le C, Stoynov N, Foster LJ, Sin WC, Naus CC, Chen VC. Cx43-Associated Secretome and Interactome Reveal Synergistic Mechanisms for Glioma Migration and MMP3 Activation. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:143. [PMID: 30941001 PMCID: PMC6433981 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, degradation and glioma cell motility are critical aspects of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Despite being a rich source of potential biomarkers and targets for therapeutic advance, the dynamic changes occurring within the extracellular environment that are specific to GBM motility have yet to be fully resolved. The gap junction protein connexin43 (Cx43) increases glioma migration and invasion in a variety of in vitro and in vivo models. In this study, the upregulation of Cx43 in C6 glioma cells induced morphological changes and the secretion of proteins associated with cell motility. Demonstrating the selective engagement of ECM remodeling networks, secretome analysis revealed the near-binary increase of osteopontin and matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP3), with gelatinase and NFF-3 assays confirming the proteolytic activities. Informatic analysis of interactome and secretome downstream of Cx43 identifies networks of glioma motility that appear to be synergistically engaged. The data presented here implicate ECM remodeling and matrikine signals downstream of Cx43/MMP3/osteopontin and ARK1B10 inhibition as possible avenues to inhibit GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qurratulain Aftab
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Marc Mesnil
- Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), CNRS ERL 7003, University of Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - Emmanuel Ojefua
- Department of Chemistry, Brandon University, Brandon, MB, Canada
| | - Alisha Poole
- Department of Chemistry, Brandon University, Brandon, MB, Canada
| | - Jenna Noordenbos
- Department of Chemistry, Brandon University, Brandon, MB, Canada
| | - Pierre-Olivier Strale
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Chris Sitko
- Department of Chemistry, Brandon University, Brandon, MB, Canada
| | - Caitlin Le
- Department of Chemistry, Brandon University, Brandon, MB, Canada
| | - Nikolay Stoynov
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Centre for High-Throughput Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Leonard J Foster
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Centre for High-Throughput Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Wun-Chey Sin
- Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), CNRS ERL 7003, University of Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - Christian C Naus
- Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), CNRS ERL 7003, University of Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - Vincent C Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Brandon University, Brandon, MB, Canada
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Ruan Y, Li Y, Liu Y, Zhou J, Wang X, Zhang W. Investigation of optimal pathways for preeclampsia using network-based guilt by association algorithm. Exp Ther Med 2019; 17:4139-4143. [PMID: 30988790 PMCID: PMC6447911 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.7410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated optimal pathways for preeclampsia (PE) utilizing the network-based guilt by association (GBA) algorithm. The inference method consisted of four steps: preparing differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between PE patients and normal controls from gene expression data; constructing co-expression network (CEN) for DEGs utilizing Spearman's correlation coefficient (SCC) method; and predicting optimal pathways by network-based GBA algorithm of which the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC) was gained for each pathway. There were 351 DEGs and 61,425 edges in the CEN for PE. Subsequently, 53 pathways were obtained with a good classification performance (AUROC >0.5). AUROC for 9 was >0.9 and defined as optimal pathways, especially microRNAs in cancer (AUROC=0.9966), gap junction (AUROC=0.9922), and pathogenic Escherichia coli infection (AUROC=0.9888). Nine optimal pathways were identified through comprehensive analysis of data from PE patients, which might shed new light on uncovering molecular and pathological mechanism of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Ruan
- Department of Obstetrics, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Li
- Department of Obstetrics, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, P.R. China
| | - Yingping Liu
- Department of Obstetrics, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, P.R. China
| | - Jianxin Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, P.R. China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, P.R. China
| | - Weiyuan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, P.R. China
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Zhang Q, Jia GJ, Zhang GB, Wang L, Wu Z, Jia W, Hao SY, Ni M, Li D, Wang K, Zhang JT. A Logistic Regression Model for Detecting the Presence of Malignant Progression in Atypical Meningiomas. World Neurosurg 2019; 126:e392-e401. [PMID: 30822595 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2019.02.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2018] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop a method to distinguish atypical meningiomas (AMs) with malignant progression (MP) from primary AMs without a clinical history. METHODS The clinical, radiologic, and pathologic data of 33 previously Simpson grade I resected (if any) as well as no radiotherapy treated intracranial AMs between January 2008 and December 2015 were reviewed. Immunohistochemical staining for connexin 43 (Cx43) and Ki-67 was performed. Descriptive analysis and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to explore independent predictors of MP. A multivariable logistic model was developed to estimate the risk of MP, and its diagnostic value was determined from a receiver operating characteristic curve. RESULTS There were 11 AMs (33.3%) with histopathologically confirmed MP from benign meningiomas. The other 22 (66.7%) were initially diagnosed AMs with no histopathologically confirmed MP during a median 60.5 months (range, 42-126 months) of follow-up. Univariate and multivariate logistic analyses showed that irregular tumor shape (P = 0.010) and low Cx43 expression (P = 0.010) were independent predictors of the presence of MP, and the predicted probability was calculated by the following formula: P = 1/[1+exp.{1.218-(3.202×Shape)+(3.814×Cx43)}]. P > 0.5 for an irregularly shaped (score 1) AM with low Cx43 expression (score 0) indicated a high probability of MP. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and overall predictive accuracy were 63.6, 95.6, 87.5, 84.0, and 84.8%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Low Cx43 expression and irregular tumor shape were independent predictors of the presence of MP. The relevant logistic regression model was found to be effective in distinguishing MP-AMs from primary AMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Gui-Jun Jia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guo-Bin Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wang Jia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shu-Yu Hao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Ni
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Da Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun-Ting Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Center of Brain Tumor, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Tumor, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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Kameritsch P, Kiemer F, Mannell H, Beck H, Pohl U, Pogoda K. PKA negatively modulates the migration enhancing effect of Connexin 43. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2019; 1866:828-838. [PMID: 30769008 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2019.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Revised: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Connexin 43 (Cx43) expression is associated with an increased cell migration and related changes of the actin cytoskeleton (enhanced filopodia formation). These effects are mediated by the C-terminal cytoplasmic part of Cx43 in a channel-independent manner. Since this part has been shown to interact with a variety of proteins and has multiple phosphorylation sites we analyzed here a potential role of the protein kinase A (PKA) for the Cx43 mediated increase in cell migration. Mutation of the PKA-phosphorylation site (substitution of three serines by alanine or glycine) resulted in a further increase in cell motility compared to wild-type Cx43, but with a loss of directionality. Likewise, cell motility was enhanced by PKA inhibition only in Cx43 expressing cells, while reduced in the presence of the PKA activator forskolin. In contrast, cell motility remained unaffected by stimulation with forskolin in cells expressing Cx43 with the mutated PKA phosphorylation site (Cx43-PKA) as well as in Cx-deficient cells. Moreover, PKA activation resulted in increased binding of PKA and VASP to Cx43 associated with an enhanced phosphorylation of VASP, an important regulatory protein of cell polarity and directed migration. Functionally, we could confirm these results in endothelial cells endogenously expressing Cx43. A Tat-Cx43 peptide containing the PKA phosphorylation site abolished the PKA dependent reduction in endothelial cell migration. Our results indicate that PKA dependent phosphorylation of Cx43 modulates cell motility and plays a pivotal role in regulating directed cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Kameritsch
- Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Munich University Hospital, Großhaderner Str. 9, 82152 Planegg, Martinsried, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Biedersteiner Str. 29, 80802 München, Germany.
| | - Felizitas Kiemer
- Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Munich University Hospital, Großhaderner Str. 9, 82152 Planegg, Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Hanna Mannell
- Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Munich University Hospital, Großhaderner Str. 9, 82152 Planegg, Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Heike Beck
- Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Munich University Hospital, Großhaderner Str. 9, 82152 Planegg, Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Ulrich Pohl
- Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Munich University Hospital, Großhaderner Str. 9, 82152 Planegg, Martinsried, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Biedersteiner Str. 29, 80802 München, Germany; Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Feodor-Lynen-Str. 17, 81377 München, Germany.
| | - Kristin Pogoda
- Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Munich University Hospital, Großhaderner Str. 9, 82152 Planegg, Martinsried, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Biedersteiner Str. 29, 80802 München, Germany.
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Kiszner G, Balla P, Wichmann B, Barna G, Baghy K, Nemeth IB, Varga E, Furi I, Toth B, Krenacs T. Exploring Differential Connexin Expression across Melanocytic Tumor Progression Involving the Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11020165. [PMID: 30717194 PMCID: PMC6406766 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11020165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of malignant melanoma, one of the deadliest cancers, continues to increase. Here we tested connexin (Cx) expression in primary melanocytes, melanoma cell lines and in a common nevus, dysplastic nevus, and thin, thick, and metastatic melanoma tumor progression series involving the tumor microenvironment by utilizing in silico analysis, qRT-PCR, immunocyto-/histochemistry and dye transfer tests. Primary melanocytes expressed GJA1/Cx43, GJA3/Cx46 and low levels of GJB2/Cx26 and GJC3/Cx30.2 transcripts. In silico data revealed downregulation of GJA1/Cx43 and GJB2/Cx26 mRNA, in addition to upregulated GJB1/Cx32, during melanoma progression. In three melanoma cell lines, we also showed the loss of GJA1/Cx43 and the differential expression of GJB1/Cx32, GJB2/Cx26, GJA3/Cx46 and GJC3/Cx30.2. The dominantly paranuclear localization of connexin proteins explained the ~10–90 times less melanoma cell coupling compared to melanocytes. In melanocytic tumor tissues, we confirmed the loss of Cx43 protein, fall of cell membrane and elevated paranuclear Cx32 with moderately increased cytoplasmic Cx26 and paranuclear Cx30.2 positivity during tumor progression. Furthermore, we found Cx43, Cx26 and Cx30 proteins upregulated in the melanoma adjacent epidermis, and Cx43 in the tumor flanking vessels. Therefore, differential connexin expression is involved in melanocytic tumor progression where varying connexin isotypes and levels reflect tumor heterogeneity-related bidirectional adaptive interactions with the microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gergo Kiszner
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Peter Balla
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Barna Wichmann
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Semmelweis University, H-1088 Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Gabor Barna
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Kornelia Baghy
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Istvan Balazs Nemeth
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Erika Varga
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Istvan Furi
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Semmelweis University, H-1088 Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Bela Toth
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Dermato-oncology, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Tibor Krenacs
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary.
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Wu L, Dong A, Dong L, Wang SQ, Li Y. PARIS, an optogenetic method for functionally mapping gap junctions. eLife 2019; 8:43366. [PMID: 30638447 PMCID: PMC6396999 DOI: 10.7554/elife.43366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-cell communication via gap junctions regulates a wide range of physiological processes by enabling the direct intercellular electrical and chemical coupling. However, the in vivo distribution and function of gap junctions remain poorly understood, partly due to the lack of non-invasive tools with both cell-type specificity and high spatiotemporal resolution. Here, we developed PARIS (pairing actuators and receivers to optically isolate gap junctions), a new fully genetically encoded tool for measuring the cell-specific gap junctional coupling (GJC). PARIS successfully enabled monitoring of GJC in several cultured cell lines under physiologically relevant conditions and in distinct genetically defined neurons in Drosophila brain, with ~10 s temporal resolution and sub-cellular spatial resolution. These results demonstrate that PARIS is a robust, highly sensitive tool for mapping functional gap junctions and study their regulation in both health and disease. For the tissues and organs of our bodies to work properly, the cells within them need to communicate with each other. One important part of cellular communication is the movement of signals – usually small molecules or ions – directly from one cell to another. This happens via structures called gap junctions, a type of sealed ‘channel’ that connects two cells. Gap junctions are found throughout the body, but investigating their precise roles in health and disease has been difficult. This is due to problems with the tools available to detect and monitor gap junctions. Some are simply harmful to cells, while others cannot be restricted to specific cell populations within a tissue. This lack of specificity makes it difficult to study gap junctions in the brain, where it is important to understand the connectivity patterns between distinct types of nerve cells. Wu et al. wanted to develop a new, non-harmful method to track gap junctions in distinct groups of cells within living tissues. To do this, Wu et al. devised PARIS, a two-part, genetically encoded system. The first part comprises a light-sensitive molecular ‘pump’, which can only be turned on by shining a laser onto the cell of interest. When the pump is active, it transports hydrogen ions out of the cell. The second part of the system is a fluorescent sensor, present inside ‘receiving’ cells, which responds to the outcoming hydrogen ions (small enough to pass through gap junctions). If an illuminated ‘signaling’ cell is connected via gap junctions to cells containing the fluorescent sensor, they will light up within seconds, but other cells not connected through gap junctions will not. The researchers first tested PARIS in cultured human and rat cells that had been genetically engineered to produce both components of the system. The experiments confirmed that PARIS could both detect networks of gap junctions in healthy cells and reveal when these networks had been disrupted, for instance by drugs or genetic mutations. Experiments using fruit flies demonstrated that PARIS was stable in living tissue and could also map the gap junctions connecting specific groups of nerve cells. PARIS is a valuable addition to the toolbox available to study cell communication. In the future, it could help increase our understanding of diseases characterized by defective gap junctions, such as seizures, cardiac irregularities, and even some cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Peking University School of Life Sciences, Beijing, China.,PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ao Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Peking University School of Life Sciences, Beijing, China.,PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liting Dong
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shi-Qiang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Peking University School of Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yulong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Peking University School of Life Sciences, Beijing, China.,PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China.,Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
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39
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Pogoda K, Kameritsch P, Mannell H, Pohl U. Connexins in the control of vasomotor function. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2019; 225:e13108. [PMID: 29858558 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial cells, as well as smooth muscle cells, show heterogeneity with regard to their receptor expression and reactivity. For the vascular wall to act as a functional unit, the various cells' responses require integration. Such an integration is not only required for a homogeneous response of the vascular wall, but also for the vasomotor behaviour of consecutive segments of the microvascular arteriolar tree. As flow resistances of individual sections are connected in series, sections require synchronization and coordination to allow effective changes of conductivity and blood flow. A prerequisite for the local coordination of individual vascular cells and different sections of an arteriolar tree is intercellular communication. Connexins are involved in a dual manner in this coordination. (i) By forming gap junctions between cells, they allow an intercellular exchange of signalling molecules and electrical currents. In particular, the spread of electrical currents allows for coordination of cell responses over longer distances. (ii) Connexins are able to interact with other proteins to form signalling complexes. In this way, they can modulate and integrate individual cells' responses also in a channel-independent manner. This review outlines mechanisms allowing the vascular connexins to exert their coordinating function and to regulate the vasomotor reactions of blood vessels both locally, and in vascular networks. Wherever possible, we focus on the vasomotor behaviour of small vessels and arterioles which are the main vessels determining vascular resistance, blood pressure and local blood flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. Pogoda
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine; University Hospital; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- Biomedical Center; Cardiovascular Physiology; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research); Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance; Munich Germany
| | - P. Kameritsch
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine; University Hospital; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- Biomedical Center; Cardiovascular Physiology; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research); Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance; Munich Germany
| | - H. Mannell
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine; University Hospital; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- Biomedical Center; Cardiovascular Physiology; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
| | - U. Pohl
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine; University Hospital; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- Biomedical Center; Cardiovascular Physiology; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research); Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance; Munich Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy); Munich Germany
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40
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Vilà-González M, Kelaini S, Magee C, Caines R, Campbell D, Eleftheriadou M, Cochrane A, Drehmer D, Tsifaki M, O'Neill K, Pedrini E, Yang C, Medina R, McDonald D, Simpson D, Zampetaki A, Zeng L, Grieve D, Lois N, Stitt AW, Margariti A. Enhanced Function of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Endothelial Cells Through ESM1 Signaling. Stem Cells 2018; 37:226-239. [PMID: 30372556 PMCID: PMC6392130 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 10/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The mortality rate for (cardio)‐vascular disease is one of the highest in the world, so a healthy functional endothelium is of outmost importance against vascular disease. In this study, human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells were reprogrammed from 1 ml blood of healthy donors and subsequently differentiated into endothelial cells (iPS‐ECs) with typical EC characteristics. This research combined iPS cell technologies and next‐generation sequencing to acquire an insight into the transcriptional regulation of iPS‐ECs. We identified endothelial cell‐specific molecule 1 (ESM1) as one of the highest expressed genes during EC differentiation, playing a key role in EC enrichment and function by regulating connexin 40 (CX40) and eNOS. Importantly, ESM1 enhanced the iPS‐ECs potential to improve angiogenesis and neovascularisation in in vivo models of angiogenesis and hind limb ischemia. These findings demonstrated for the first time that enriched functional ECs are derived through cell reprogramming and ESM1 signaling, opening the horizon for drug screening and cell‐based therapies for vascular diseases. Therefore, this study showcases a new approach for enriching and enhancing the function of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell‐derived ECs from a very small amount of blood through ESM1 signaling, which greatly enhances their functionality and increases their therapeutic potential. Stem Cells2019;37:226–239
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Vilà-González
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Sophia Kelaini
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Corey Magee
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Caines
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - David Campbell
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Magdalini Eleftheriadou
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Amy Cochrane
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Daiana Drehmer
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Marianna Tsifaki
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Karla O'Neill
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Edoardo Pedrini
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Chunbo Yang
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Reinhold Medina
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Denise McDonald
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - David Simpson
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Zampetaki
- Cardiovascular Division, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lingfang Zeng
- Cardiovascular Division, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David Grieve
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Noemi Lois
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Alan W Stitt
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
| | - Andriana Margariti
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, United Kingdom
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Li Q, Li QQ, Jia JN, Liu ZQ, Zhou HH, Mao XY. Targeting gap junction in epilepsy: Perspectives and challenges. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 109:57-65. [PMID: 30396092 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.10.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJs) are multiple cellular intercellular connections that allow ions to pass directly into the cytoplasm of neighboring cells. Electrical coupling mediated by GJs plays a role in the generation of highly synchronous electrical activity. Accumulative investigations show that GJs in the brain are involved in the generation, synchronization and maintenance of seizure events. At the same time, GJ blockers exert potent curative potential on epilepsy in vivo or in vitro. This review aims to shed light on the role of GJs in epileptogenesis. Targeting GJs is likely to be served as a novel therapeutic approach on epileptic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Qiu-Qi Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Ji-Ning Jia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Zhao-Qian Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Hong-Hao Zhou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Xiao-Yuan Mao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China.
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42
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Abstract
The connexin family of channel-forming proteins is present in every tissue type in the human anatomy. Connexins are best known for forming clustered intercellular channels, structurally known as gap junctions, where they serve to exchange members of the metabolome between adjacent cells. In their single-membrane hemichannel form, connexins can act as conduits for the passage of small molecules in autocrine and paracrine signalling. Here, we review the roles of connexins in health and disease, focusing on the potential of connexins as therapeutic targets in acquired and inherited diseases as well as wound repair, while highlighting the associated clinical challenges.
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43
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Moscato S, Cabiati M, Bianchi F, Vaglini F, Morales MA, Burchielli S, Botta L, Sabbatini ARM, Falleni A, Del Ry S, Mattii L. Connexin 26 Expression in Mammalian Cardiomyocytes. Sci Rep 2018; 8:13975. [PMID: 30228305 PMCID: PMC6143590 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-32405-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexins are a family of membrane-spanning proteins named according to their molecular weight. They are known to form membrane channels mediating cell-cell communication, which play an essential role in the propagation of electrical activity in the heart. Cx26 has been described in a number of tissues but not in the heart, and its mutations are frequently associated with deafness and skin diseases. The aim of this study was to assess the possible Cx26 expression in heart tissues of different mammalian species and to demonstrate its localization at level of cardiomyocytes. Samples of pig, human and rat heart and H9c2 cells were used for our research. Immunohistochemical and molecular biology techniques were employed to test the expression of Cx26. Interestingly, this connexin was found in cardiomyocytes, at level of clusters scattered over the cell cytoplasm but not at level of the intercalated discs where the other cardiac connexins are usually located. Furthermore, the expression of Cx26 in H9c2 myoblast cells increased when they were differentiated into cardiac-like phenotype. To our knowledge, the expression of Cx26 in pig, human and rat has been demonstrated for the first time in the present paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Moscato
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - M Cabiati
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Bianchi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Vaglini
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - M A Morales
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - L Botta
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Niguarda Ca' Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - A R M Sabbatini
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and of Emergency Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - A Falleni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - S Del Ry
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | - L Mattii
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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44
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Schadzek P, Hermes D, Stahl Y, Dilger N, Ngezahayo A. Concatenation of Human Connexin26 (hCx26) and Human Connexin46 (hCx46) for the Analysis of Heteromeric Gap Junction Hemichannels and Heterotypic Gap Junction Channels. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E2742. [PMID: 30217016 PMCID: PMC6163895 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junction channels and hemichannels formed by concatenated connexins were analyzed. Monomeric (hCx26, hCx46), homodimeric (hCx46-hCx46, hCx26-hCx26), and heterodimeric (hCx26-hCx46, hCx46-hCx26) constructs, coupled to GFP, were expressed in HeLa cells. Confocal microscopy showed that the tandems formed gap junction plaques with a reduced plaque area compared to monomeric hCx26 or hCx46. Dye transfer experiments showed that concatenation allows metabolic transfer. Expressed in Xenopus oocytes, the inside-out patch-clamp configuration showed single channels with a conductance of about 46 pS and 39 pS for hemichannels composed of hCx46 and hCx26 monomers, respectively, when chloride was replaced by gluconate on both membrane sides. The conductance was reduced for hCx46-hCx46 and hCx26-hCx26 homodimers, probably due to the concatenation. Heteromerized hemichannels, depending on the connexin-order, were characterized by substates at 26 pS and 16 pS for hCx46-hCx26 and 31 pS and 20 pS for hCx26-hCx46. Because of the linker between the connexins, the properties of the formed hemichannels and gap junction channels (e.g., single channel conductance) may not represent the properties of hetero-oligomerized channels. However, should the removal of the linker be successful, this method could be used to analyze the electrical and metabolic selectivity of such channels and the physiological consequences for a tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrik Schadzek
- Institut für Biophysik, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Herrenhäuser Straße 2, 30419 Hannover, Germany.
| | - Doris Hermes
- Institut für Biophysik, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Herrenhäuser Straße 2, 30419 Hannover, Germany.
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, University of Göttingen, Robert-Koch Str. 40, D-37075 Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Yannick Stahl
- Institut für Biophysik, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Herrenhäuser Straße 2, 30419 Hannover, Germany.
| | - Nadine Dilger
- Institut für Biophysik, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Herrenhäuser Straße 2, 30419 Hannover, Germany.
| | - Anaclet Ngezahayo
- Institut für Biophysik, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Herrenhäuser Straße 2, 30419 Hannover, Germany.
- Zentrum für Systemische Neurowissenschaften Stiftung Tierärztliche Hochschule Hannover, Bünteweg 2, 30559 Hannover, Germany.
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45
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A Cell Junctional Protein Network Associated with Connexin-26. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092535. [PMID: 30150563 PMCID: PMC6163694 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
GJB2 mutations are the leading cause of non-syndromic inherited hearing loss. GJB2 encodes connexin-26 (CX26), which is a connexin (CX) family protein expressed in cochlea, skin, liver, and brain, displaying short cytoplasmic N-termini and C-termini. We searched for CX26 C-terminus binding partners by affinity capture and identified 12 unique proteins associated with cell junctions or cytoskeleton (CGN, DAAM1, FLNB, GAPDH, HOMER2, MAP7, MAPRE2 (EB2), JUP, PTK2B, RAI14, TJP1, and VCL) by using mass spectrometry. We show that, similar to other CX family members, CX26 co-fractionates with TJP1, VCL, and EB2 (EB1 paralogue) as well as the membrane-associated protein ASS1. The adaptor protein CGN (cingulin) co-immuno-precipitates with CX26, ASS1, and TJP1. In addition, CGN co-immunoprecipitation with CX30, CX31, and CX43 indicates that CX association is independent on the CX C-terminus length or sequence. CX26, CGN, FLNB, and DAMM1 were shown to distribute to the organ of Corti and hepatocyte plasma membrane. In the mouse liver, CX26 and TJP1 co-localized at the plasma membrane. In conclusion, CX26 associates with components of other membrane junctions that integrate with the cytoskeleton.
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Taki T, Takeichi T, Sugiura K, Akiyama M. Roles of aberrant hemichannel activities due to mutant connexin26 in the pathogenesis of KID syndrome. Sci Rep 2018; 8:12824. [PMID: 30150638 PMCID: PMC6110719 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-30757-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Germline missense mutations in GJB2 encoding connexin (Cx) 26 have been found in keratitis, ichthyosis and deafness (KID) syndrome. We explored the effects of three mouse Cx26 mutants (Cx26-G12R, -G45E and -D50N) corresponding to KID syndrome-causative human mutants on hemichannel activities leading to cell death and the expression of immune response-associated genes. We analyzed the 3D images of cells expressing wild-type (WT) or mutant Cx26 molecules to demonstrate clearly the intracellular localization of Cx26 mutants and hemichannel formation. High extracellular Ca2+ conditions lead to the closure of gap junction hemichannels in Cx26-G12R or Cx26-G45E expressing cells, resulting in prohibition of the Cx26 mutant-induced cell death. Fluorescent dye uptake assays revealed that cells with Cx26-D50N had aberrantly high hemichannel activities, which were abolished by a hemichannel blocker, carbenoxolone and 18α-Glycyrrhetinic acid. These results further support the idea that abnormal hemichannel activities play important roles in the pathogenesis of KID syndrome. Furthermore, we revealed that the expressions of IL15, CCL5, IL1A, IL23R and TLR5 are down-regulated in keratinocytes expressing Cx26-D50N, suggesting that immune deficiency in KID syndrome expressing Cx26-D50N might be associated not only with skin barrier defects, but also with the down-regulated expression of immune response-related genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Taki
- Department of Dermatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8550, Japan
| | - T Takeichi
- Department of Dermatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8550, Japan
| | - K Sugiura
- Department of Dermatology, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
| | - M Akiyama
- Department of Dermatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8550, Japan.
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47
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Direct Cell⁻Cell Interactions in the Endometrium and in Endometrial Pathophysiology. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19082227. [PMID: 30061539 PMCID: PMC6121364 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19082227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell contacts exhibit a considerable influence on tissue physiology and homeostasis by controlling paracellular and intercellular transport processes, as well as by affecting signaling pathways. Since they maintain cell polarity, they play an important role in cell plasticity. The knowledge about the junctional protein families and their interactions has increased considerably during recent years. In contrast to most other tissues, the endometrium undergoes extensive physiological changes and reveals an extraordinary plasticity due to its crucial role in the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. These complex changes are accompanied by changes in direct cell–cell contacts to meet the various requirements in the respective developmental stage. Impairment of this sophisticated differentiation process may lead to failure of implantation and embryo development and may be involved in the pathogenesis of endometrial diseases. In this article, we focus on the knowledge about the distribution and regulation of the different junctional proteins in the endometrium during cycling and pregnancy, as well as in pathologic conditions such as endometriosis and cancer. Decoding these sophisticated interactions should improve our understanding of endometrial physiology as well as of the mechanisms involved in pathological conditions.
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48
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Molica F, Figueroa XF, Kwak BR, Isakson BE, Gibbins JM. Connexins and Pannexins in Vascular Function and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19061663. [PMID: 29874791 PMCID: PMC6032213 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19061663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs) and pannexins (Panxs) are ubiquitous membrane channel forming proteins that are critically involved in many aspects of vascular physiology and pathology. The permeation of ions and small metabolites through Panx channels, Cx hemichannels and gap junction channels confers a crucial role to these proteins in intercellular communication and in maintaining tissue homeostasis. This review provides an overview of current knowledge with respect to the pathophysiological role of these channels in large arteries, the microcirculation, veins, the lymphatic system and platelet function. The essential nature of these membrane proteins in vascular homeostasis is further emphasized by the pathologies that are linked to mutations and polymorphisms in Cx and Panx genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Molica
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Xavier F Figueroa
- Departamento de Fisiología, Faculdad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontifica Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330025, Chile.
| | - Brenda R Kwak
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Brant E Isakson
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
| | - Jonathan M Gibbins
- Institute for Cardiovascular & Metabolic Research, School of Biological Sciences, Harborne Building, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AS, UK.
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Connexins and Pannexins: Important Players in Tumorigenesis, Metastasis and Potential Therapeutics. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19061645. [PMID: 29865195 PMCID: PMC6032133 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19061645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Since their characterization more than five decades ago, gap junctions and their structural proteins-the connexins-have been associated with cancer cell growth. During that period, the accumulation of data and molecular knowledge about this association revealed an apparent contradictory relationship between them and cancer. It appeared that if gap junctions or connexins can down regulate cancer cell growth they can be also implied in the migration, invasion and metastatic dissemination of cancer cells. Interestingly, in all these situations, connexins seem to be involved through various mechanisms in which they can act either as gap-junctional intercellular communication mediators, modulators of signalling pathways through their interactome, or as hemichannels, which mediate autocrine/paracrine communication. This complex involvement of connexins in cancer progression is even more complicated by the fact that their hemichannel function may overlap with other gap junction-related proteins, the pannexins. Despite this complexity, the possible involvements of connexins and pannexins in cancer progression and the elucidation of the mechanisms they control may lead to use them as new targets to control cancer progression. In this review, the involvements of connexins and pannexins in these different topics (cancer cell growth, invasion/metastasis process, possible cancer therapeutic targets) are discussed.
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50
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Spagnol G, Trease AJ, Zheng L, Gutierrez M, Basu I, Sarmiento C, Moore G, Cervantes M, Sorgen PL. Connexin43 Carboxyl-Terminal Domain Directly Interacts with β-Catenin. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19061562. [PMID: 29882937 PMCID: PMC6032326 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19061562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of Wnt signaling induces Connexin43 (Cx43) expression via the transcriptional activity of β-catenin, and results in the enhanced accumulation of the Cx43 protein and the formation of gap junction channels. In response to Wnt signaling, β-catenin co-localizes with the Cx43 protein itself as part of a complex at the gap junction plaque. Work from several labs have also shown indirect evidence of this interaction via reciprocal co-immunoprecipitation. Our goal for the current study was to identify whether β-catenin directly interacts with Cx43, and if so, the location of that direct interaction. Identifying residues involved in direct protein⁻protein interaction is of importance when they are correlated to the phosphorylation of Cx43, as phosphorylation can modify the binding affinities of Cx43 regulatory protein partners. Therefore, combining the location of a protein partner interaction on Cx43 along with the phosphorylation pattern under different homeostatic and pathological conditions will be crucial information for any potential therapeutic intervention. Here, we identified that β-catenin directly interacts with the Cx43 carboxyl-terminal domain, and that this interaction would be inhibited by the Src phosphorylation of Cx43CT residues Y265 and Y313.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaelle Spagnol
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
| | - Andrew J Trease
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
| | - Li Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
| | - Mirtha Gutierrez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
| | - Ishika Basu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
| | - Cleofes Sarmiento
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
| | - Gabriella Moore
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
| | - Matthew Cervantes
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
| | - Paul L Sorgen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
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