H+-translocating ATPase in Golgi apparatus

Rab2 stimulates LC3 lipidation on secretory membranes by noncanonical autophagy

The Golgi complex is a highly dynamic organelle that regulates various cellular activities and yet maintains a distinct structure. Multiple proteins participate in Golgi structure/organization including the small GTPase Rab2. Rab2 is found on the cis/medial Golgi compartments and the endoplasmic reticulum-Golgi intermediate compartment. Interestingly, Rab2 gene amplification occurs in a wide range of human cancers and Golgi morphological alterations are associated with cellular transformation. To learn how Rab2 'gain of function' influences the structure/activity of membrane compartments in the early secretory pathway that may contribute to oncogenesis, NRK cells were transfected with Rab2B cDNA. We found that Rab2B overexpression had a dramatic effect on the morphology of pre- and early Golgi compartments that resulted in a decreased transport rate of VSV-G in the early secretory pathway. We monitored the cells for the autophagic marker protein LC3 based on the findings that depressed membrane trafficking affects homeostasis. Morphological and biochemical studies confirmed that Rab2 ectopic expression stimulated LC3-lipidation on Rab2-containing membranes that was dependent on GAPDH and utilized a non-canonical LC3-conjugation mechanism that is nondegradative. Golgi structural alterations are associated with changes in Golgi-associated signalling pathways. Indeed, Rab2 overexpressing cells had elevated Src activity. We propose that increased Rab2 expression facilitates cis Golgi structural changes that are maintained and tolerated by the cell due to LC3 tagging, and subsequent membrane remodeling triggers Golgi associated signaling pathways that may contribute to oncogenesis.

Progeny Varicella-Zoster Virus Capsids Exit the Nucleus but Never Undergo Secondary Envelopment during Autophagic Flux Inhibition by Bafilomycin A1

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is an alphaherpesvirus that lacks the herpesviral neurovirulence protein ICP34.5. The underlying hypothesis of this project was that inhibitors of autophagy reduce VZV infectivity. We selected the vacuolar proton ATPase inhibitor bafilomycin A1 for analysis because of its well-known antiautophagy property of impeding acidification during the late stage of autophagic flux. We documented that bafilomycin treatment from 48 to 72 h postinfection lowered VZV titers substantially (P ≤ 0.008). Because we were unable to define the site of the block in the infectious cycle by confocal microscopy, we turned to electron microscopy. Capsids were observed in the nucleus, in the perinuclear space, and in the cytoplasm adjacent to Golgi apparatus vesicles. Many of the capsids had an aberrant appearance, as has been observed previously in infections not treated with bafilomycin. In contrast to prior untreated infections, however, secondary envelopment of capsids was not seen in the trans-Golgi network, nor were prototypical enveloped particles with capsids (virions) seen in cytoplasmic vesicles after bafilomycin treatment. Instead, multiple particles with varying diameters without capsids (light particles) were seen in large virus assembly compartments near the disorganized Golgi apparatus. Bafilomycin treatment also led to increased numbers of multivesicular bodies in the cytoplasm, some of which contained remnants of the Golgi apparatus. In summary, we have defined a previously unrecognized property of bafilomycin whereby it disrupted the site of secondary envelopment of VZV capsids by altering the pH of the trans-Golgi network and thereby preventing the correct formation of virus assembly compartments.IMPORTANCE This study of VZV assembly in the presence of bafilomycin A1 emphasizes the importance of the Golgi apparatus/trans-Golgi network as a platform in the alphaherpesvirus life cycle. We have previously shown that VZV induces levels of autophagy far above the basal levels of autophagy in human skin, a major site of VZV assembly. The current study documented that bafilomycin treatment led to impaired assembly of VZV capsids after primary envelopment/de-envelopment but before secondary reenvelopment. This VZV study also complemented prior herpes simplex virus 1 and pseudorabies virus studies investigating two other inhibitors of endoplasmic reticulum (ER)/Golgi apparatus function: brefeldin A and monensin. Studies with porcine herpesvirus demonstrated that primary enveloped particles accumulated in the perinuclear space in the presence of brefeldin A, while studies with herpes simplex virus 1 documented an impaired secondary assembly of enveloped viral particles in the presence of monensin.

Actin Filaments Are Involved in the Coupling of V0-V1 Domains of Vacuolar H+-ATPase at the Golgi Complex

We previously reported that actin-depolymerizing agents promote the alkalization of the Golgi stack and thetrans-Golgi network. The main determinant of acidic pH at the Golgi is the vacuolar-type H(+)-translocating ATPase (V-ATPase), whose V1domain subunitsBandCbind actin. We have generated a GFP-tagged subunitB2construct (GFP-B2) that is incorporated into the V1domain, which in turn is coupled to the V0sector. GFP-B2 subunit is enriched at distal Golgi compartments in HeLa cells. Subcellular fractionation, immunoprecipitation, and inversal FRAP experiments show that the actin depolymerization promotes the dissociation of V1-V0domains, which entails subunitB2translocation from Golgi membranes to the cytosol. Moreover, molecular interaction between subunitsB2andC1and actin were detected. In addition, Golgi membrane lipid order disruption byd-ceramide-C6 causes Golgi pH alkalization. We conclude that actin regulates the Golgi pH homeostasis maintaining the coupling of V1-V0domains of V-ATPase through the binding of microfilaments to subunitsBandCand preserving the integrity of detergent-resistant membrane organization. These results establish the Golgi-associated V-ATPase activity as the molecular link between actin and the Golgi pH.

Parallel damage in mitochondrial and lysosomal compartments promotes efficient cell death with autophagy: The case of the pentacyclic triterpenoids

The role of autophagy in cell death is still controversial and a lot of debate has concerned the transition from its pro-survival to its pro-death roles. The similar structure of the triterpenoids Betulinic (BA) and Oleanolic (OA) acids allowed us to prove that this transition involves parallel damage in mitochondria and lysosome. After treating immortalized human skin keratinocytes (HaCaT) with either BA or OA, we evaluated cell viability, proliferation and mechanism of cell death, function and morphology of mitochondria and lysosomes, and the status of the autophagy flux. We also quantified the interactions of BA and OA with membrane mimics, both in-vitro and in-silico. Essentially, OA caused mitochondrial damage that relied on autophagy to rescue cellular homeostasis, which failed upon lysosomal inhibition by Chloroquine or Bafilomycin-A1. BA caused parallel damage on mitochondria and lysosome, turning autophagy into a destructive process. The higher cytotoxicity of BA correlated with its stronger efficiency in damaging membrane mimics. Based on these findings, we underlined the concept that autophagy will turn into a destructive outcome when there is parallel damage in mitochondrial and lysosomal membranes. We trust that this concept will help the development of new drugs against aggressive cancers.

Spatial profiles of markers of glycolysis, mitochondria, and proton pumps in a rat glioma suggest coordinated programming for proliferation

Background

In cancer cells in vitro, the glycolytic pathway and the mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle are programmed to produce more precursor molecules, and relatively less ATP, than in differentiated cells. We address the questions of whether and where these changes occur in vivo in glioblastomas grown from C6 cells in rat brain. These gliomas show some spatial organization, notably in the upregulation of membrane proton transporters near the rim.

Results

We immunolabeled pairs of proteins (as well as DNA) on sections of rat brains containing gliomas, measured the profiles of fluorescence intensity on strips 200 µm wide and at least 3 mm long running perpendicular to the tumor rim, and expressed the intensity in the glioma relative to that outside. On averaged profiles, labeling of a marker of the glycolytic pathway, glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), was, as expected, greater in the glioma. Over distances up to 2.5 mm into the glioma, expression of a marker of the TCA cycle, Tom20, a pre-protein receptor on the translocation complex of the mitochondrial outer membrane, was also upregulated. The ratio of upregulation of Tom20 to upregulation of GAPDH was, on average, slightly greater than one. Near the rim (0.4–0.8 mm), GAPDH was expressed less and there was a peak in the mean ratio of 1.16, SEM = 0.001, N = 16 pairs of profiles. An antibody to V-ATPase, which, by pumping protons into vacuoles contributes to cell growth, also indicated upregulation by about 40%. When compared directly with GAPDH, upregulation of V-ATPase was only 0.764, SD = 0.016 of GAPDH upregulation.

Conclusions

Although there was considerable variation between individual measured profiles, on average, markers of the glycolytic pathway, of mitochondria, and of cell proliferation showed coherent upregulation in C6 gliomas. There is a zone, close to the rim, where mitochondrial presence is upregulated more than the glycolytic pathway, in agreement with earlier suggestions that lactate is taken up by cells near the rim.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13104-015-1191-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Wide expression of type I Na+-phosphate cotransporter 3 (NPT3/SLC17A2), a membrane potential-driven organic anion transporter

Membrane potential (Δψ)-driven and Cl(-)-dependent organic anion transport is a primary function of the solute carrier family 17 (SLC17) transporter family. Although the transport substrates and physiological relevance of the major members are well understood, SLC17A2 protein known to be Na(+)-phosphate cotransporter 3 (NPT3) is far less well characterized. In the present study, we investigated the transport properties and expression patterns of mouse SLC17A2 protein (mNPT3). Proteoliposomes containing the purified mNPT3 protein took up radiolabeled p-aminohippuric acid (PAH) in a Δψ- and Cl(-)-dependent manner. The mNPT3-mediated PAH uptake was inhibited by 4,4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid (DIDs) and Evans blue, common inhibitors of SLC17 family members. The PAH uptake was also inhibited by various anionic compounds, such as hydrophilic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and urate. Consistent with these observations, the proteoliposome took up radiolabeled urate in a Δψ- and Cl(-)-dependent manner. Immunohistochemistry with specific antibodies against mNPT3 combined with RT-PCR revealed that mNPT3 is present in various tissues, including the hepatic bile duct, luminal membranes of the renal urinary tubules, maternal side of syncytiotrophoblast in the placenta, apical membrane of follicle cells in the thyroid, bronchiole epithelial cells in the lungs, and astrocytes around blood vessels in the cerebrum. These results suggested that mNPT3 is a polyspecific organic anion transporter that is involved in circulation of urate throughout the body.

A thermo-physical analysis of the proton pump vacuolar-ATPase: the constructal approach

Pumping protons across a membrane was a critical step at the origin of life on earth, and it is still performed in all living organisms, including in human cells. Proton pumping is paramount to keep normal cells alive, e.g. for lysosomal digestion and for preparing peptides for immune recognition, but it goes awry in cancer cells. They acidify their microenvironment hence membrane voltage is lowered, which in turn induces cell proliferation, a hallmark of cancer. Proton pumping is achieved by means of rotary motors, namely vacuolar ATPases (V-ATPase), which are present at many of the multiple cellular interfaces. Therefore, we undertook an examination of the thermodynamic properties of V-ATPases. The principal result is that the V-ATPase-mediated control of the cell membrane potential and the related and consequent environmental pH can potentially represent a valuable support strategy for anticancer therapies. A constructal theory approach is used as a new viewpoint to study how V-ATPase can be modulated for therapeutic purposes. In particular, V-ATPase can be regulated by using external fields, such as electromagnetic fields, and a theoretical approach has been introduced to quantify the appropriate field strength and frequency for this new adjuvant therapeutic strategy.

Mutations in the Drosophila ortholog of the vertebrate Golgi pH regulator (GPHR) protein disturb endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi organization and affect systemic growth

Sorting of secretory cargo and retrieval of components of the biosynthetic pathway occur in organelles such as the Golgi apparatus, the endoplasmic reticulum and the endosomes. In order to perform their functions in protein sorting, these organelles require a weakly acidified lumen. In vitro data have shown that Golgi luminal pH is in part regulated by an anion channel called Golgi pH Regulator (GPHR). Mammalian cells carrying a mutated GPHR version present an increased luminal pH leading to delayed protein transport, impaired glycosylation and Golgi disorganization. Using Drosophila as a model system, we present here the first phenotypic consequences, at the organism level, of a complete lack of GPHR function. We show that, although all individuals carrying complete loss-of-function mutations in the dGPHR gene can go through embryonic development, most of them die at late larval stages. The dGPHR mutations are, however, sublethal and can therefore generate escapers that are smaller than controls. Using cellular and molecular readouts, we demonstrate that the effects of dGPHR mutation on larval growth are not due to Insulin signaling pathway impairment and can be rescued by providing dGPHR in only some of the larval tissues. We reveal that, although functionally exchangeable, the invertebrate and vertebrate GPHRs display not completely overlapping sub-cellular localization. Whereas the mammalian GPHR is a Golgi-only associated protein whose inactivation disturbs the Golgi apparatus, our data suggest that dGPHR is expressed in both the ER and the Golgi and that dGPHR mutant flies have defects in both organelles that lead to a defective secretory pathway.

Actin acting at the Golgi

The organization, assembly and remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton provide force and tracks for a variety of (endo)membrane-associated events such as membrane trafficking. This review illustrates in different cellular models how actin and many of its numerous binding and regulatory proteins (actin and co-workers) participate in the structural organization of the Golgi apparatus and in trafficking-associated processes such as sorting, biogenesis and motion of Golgi-derived transport carriers.

Small-molecule screening identifies modulators of aquaporin-2 trafficking

In the principal cells of the renal collecting duct, arginine vasopressin (AVP) stimulates the synthesis of cAMP, leading to signaling events that culminate in the phosphorylation of aquaporin-2 water channels and their redistribution from intracellular domains to the plasma membrane via vesicular trafficking. The molecular mechanisms that control aquaporin-2 trafficking and the consequent water reabsorption, however, are not completely understood. Here, we used a cell-based assay and automated immunofluorescence microscopy to screen 17,700 small molecules for inhibitors of the cAMP-dependent redistribution of aquaporin-2. This approach identified 17 inhibitors, including 4-acetyldiphyllin, a selective blocker of vacuolar H(+)-ATPase that increases the pH of intracellular vesicles and causes accumulation of aquaporin-2 in the Golgi compartment. Although 4-acetyldiphyllin did not inhibit forskolin-induced increases in cAMP formation and downstream activation of protein kinase A (PKA), it did prevent cAMP/PKA-dependent phosphorylation at serine 256 of aquaporin-2, which triggers the redistribution to the plasma membrane. It did not, however, prevent cAMP-induced changes to the phosphorylation status at serines 261 or 269. Last, we identified the fungicide fluconazole as an inhibitor of cAMP-mediated redistribution of aquaporin-2, but its target in this pathway remains unknown. In conclusion, our screening approach provides a method to begin dissecting molecular mechanisms underlying AVP-mediated water reabsorption, evidenced by our identification of 4-acetyldiphyllin as a modulator of aquaporin-2 trafficking.

An update in the structure, function, and regulation of V-ATPases: the role of the C subunit

Vacuolar ATPases (V-ATPases) are present in specialized proton secretory cells in which they pump protons across the membranes of various intracellular organelles and across the plasma membrane. The proton transport mechanism is electrogenic and establishes an acidic pH and a positive transmembrane potential in these intracellular and extracellular compartments. V-ATPases have been found to be practically identical in terms of the composition of their subunits in all eukaryotic cells. They have two distinct structures: a peripheral catalytic sector (V1) and a hydrophobic membrane sector (V0) responsible for driving protons. V-ATPase activity is regulated by three different mechanisms, which control pump density, association/dissociation of the V1 and V0 domains, and secretory activity. The C subunit is a 40-kDa protein located in the V1 domain of V-ATPase. The protein is encoded by the ATP6V1C gene and is located at position 22 of the long arm of chromosome 8 (8q22.3). The C subunit has very important functions in terms of controlling the regulation of the reversible dissociation of V-ATPases.

The acidic environment of the Golgi is critical for glycosylation and transport

Proteins and glycolipids are modified by various modes of glycosylation in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the Golgi apparatus. It is well known that the lumen of the Golgi is acidic and compromising acidification by chemical compounds causes impaired glycosylation and transport of proteins (Axelsson et al., 2001; Chapman and Munro, 1994; Palokangas et al., 1994; Presley et al., 1997; Puri et al., 2002; Reaves and Banting, 1994; Rivinoja et al., 2006; Tartakoff et al., 1978). The mechanisms by which glycosylation and transport are regulated by an acidic pH remain largely unknown. Recent findings that the impaired regulation of an acidic environment may be implicated in the pathology of several diseases emphasize the importance of pH regulation (Jentsch, 2007; Kasper et al., 2005; Kornak et al., 2001; Kornak et al., 2008; Piwon et al., 2000; Stobrawa et al., 2001; Teichgraber et al., 2008). We recently established a mutant cell line in which Golgi acidification was selectively impaired and the raised luminal Golgi pH caused impaired transport and glycosylation of proteins and altered Golgi morphology (Maeda et al., 2008). As alkalinizing compounds nonselectively affect all acidic organelles including lysosomes, endosomes, and the Golgi, the mutant cell is thought to be useful in analyzing how the acidic environment of the Golgi regulates glycosylation. In this chapter, we have introduced how we established mutant cells with impaired Golgi acidification and methods for measuring Golgi pH.

V-ATPase inhibitors and implication in cancer treatment

Acidity is one of the main features of the tumors. The V-ATPase is the primary responsible for the control of tumor microenvironment by proton extrusion to the extracellular medium. The acid environment favors tissue damage, activation of destructive enzymes in the extracellular matrix, the acquisition of metastatic cell phenotypes as well as increasing the destructive capacity. The application of specific inhibitors of V-ATPases, can decrease the acidity of tumor and may allow the reduction of tumor metastasis, acting on the survival of tumor cells and prevent the phenomena of chemoresistance. Among the most important inhibitors can be distinguished benzolactone enamides (salicylihalamide), lobatamide A and B, apicularen, indolyls, oximidine, macrolactone archazolid, lobatamide C, and cruentaren. The latest generation of inhibitors includes NiK12192, FR202126, and PPI SB 242784. The purpose of this paper is to describe the latest advances in the field of V-ATPase inhibitors, describe further developments related to the classic inhibitors, and discuss new potential applications of these drugs in cancer treatment.

An unusual organelle in Cryptococcus neoformans links luminal pH and capsule biosynthesis

Cryptococcus neoformans is a basidiomycete that causes deadly infections in the immunocompromised. We previously generated a secretion mutant in this fungus by introducing a mutation in the SAV1 gene, which encodes a homolog of the Sec4/Rab8 subfamily GTPases. Under restrictive conditions there are two notable morphological changes in the sav1 mutant: accumulation of post-Golgi vesicles and the appearance of an unusual organelle, which we term the sav1 body (SB). The SB is an electron-transparent structure 0.2-1microm in diameter, with vesicles or other membranous structures associated with the perimeter. Surprisingly, the SB was heavily labeled with anti-glucuronoxylomannan (GXM) antibodies, suggesting that it contains a secreted capsule component, GXM. A structure similar to the SB, also labeled by anti-GXM antibodies, was induced in wild type cells treated with the vacuolar-ATPase inhibitor, bafilomycin A(1). Bafilomycin A(1) and other agents that increase intraluminal pH also inhibited capsule polysaccharide shedding and capsule growth. These studies highlight an unusual organelle observed in C. neoformans with a potential role in polysaccharide synthesis, and a link between luminal pH and GXM biosynthesis.

GPHR is a novel anion channel critical for acidification and functions of the Golgi apparatus

The organelles within secretory and endocytotic pathways in mammalian cells have acidified lumens, and regulation of their acidic pH is critical for the trafficking, processing and glycosylation of cargo proteins and lipids, as well as the morphological integrity of the organelles. How organelle lumen acidification is regulated, and how luminal pH elevation disturbs these fundamental cellular processes, is largely unknown. Here, we describe a novel molecule involved in Golgi acidification. First, mutant cells defective in Golgi acidification were established that exhibited delayed protein transport, impaired glycosylation and Golgi disorganization. Using expression cloning, a novel Golgi-resident multi-transmembrane protein, named Golgi pH regulator (GPHR), was identified as being responsible for the mutant cells. After reconstitution in planar lipid bilayers, GPHR exhibited a voltage-dependent anion-channel activity that may function in counterion conductance. Thus, GPHR modulates Golgi functions through regulation of acidification.

Methods for assessing autophagy and autophagic cell death

Autophagic (or type 2) cell death is characterized by the massive accumulation of autophagic vacuoles (autophagosomes) in the cytoplasm of cells that lack signs of apoptosis (type 1 cell death). Here we detail and critically assess a series of methods to promote and inhibit autophagy via pharmacological and genetic manipulations. We also review the techniques currently available to detect autophagy, including transmission electron microscopy, half-life assessments of long-lived proteins, detection of LC3 maturation/aggregation, fluorescence microscopy, and colocalization of mitochondrion- or endoplasmic reticulum-specific markers with lysosomal proteins. Massive autophagic vacuolization may cause cellular stress and represent a frustrated attempt of adaptation. In this case, cell death occurs with (or in spite of) autophagy. When cell death occurs through autophagy, on the contrary, the inhibition of the autophagic process should prevent cellular demise. Accordingly, we describe a strategy for discriminating cell death with autophagy from cell death through autophagy.

Actin filaments are involved in the maintenance of Golgi cisternae morphology and intra-Golgi pH

Here we examine the contribution of actin dynamics to the architecture and pH of the Golgi complex. To this end, we have used toxins that depolymerize (cytochalasin D, latrunculin B, mycalolide B, and Clostridium botulinum C2 toxin) or stabilize (jasplakinolide) filamentous actin. When various clonal cell lines were examined by epifluorescence microscopy, all of these actin toxins induced compaction of the Golgi complex. However, ultrastructural analysis by transmission electron microscopy and electron tomography/three-dimensional modelling of the Golgi complex showed that F-actin depolymerization first induces perforation/fragmentation and severe swelling of Golgi cisternae, which leads to a completely disorganized structure. In contrast, F-actin stabilization results only in cisternae perforation/fragmentation. Concomitantly to actin depolymerization-induced cisternae swelling and disorganization, the intra-Golgi pH significantly increased. Similar ultrastructural and Golgi pH alkalinization were observed in cells treated with the vacuolar H+ -ATPases inhibitors bafilomycin A1 and concanamycin A. Overall, these results suggest that actin filaments are implicated in the preservation of the flattened shape of Golgi cisternae. This maintenance seems to be mediated by the regulation of the state of F-actin assembly on the Golgi pH homeostasis.

Actin dynamics at the Golgi complex in mammalian cells

Secretion and endocytosis are highly dynamic processes that are sensitive to external stimuli. Thus, in multicellular organisms, different cell types utilize specialised pathways of intracellular membrane traffic to facilitate specific physiological functions. In addition to the complex internal molecular factors that govern sorting functions and fission or fusion of transport carriers, the actin cytoskeleton plays an important role in both the endocytic and secretory pathways. The interaction between the actin cytoskeleton and membrane trafficking is not restricted to transport processes: it also appears to be directly involved in the biogenesis of Golgi-derived transport carriers (budding and fission processes) and in the maintenance of the unique flat shape of Golgi cisternae.

Chemical genetic screening identifies sulfonamides that raise organellar pH and interfere with membrane traffic

Chemical genetics seeks to identify small molecules that afford functional dissection of cell biological pathways. Previous screens for small molecule inhibitors of exocytic membrane traffic yielded the identification and characterization of several compounds that block traffic from the Golgi to the cell surface as well as transport from the endoplasmic reticulum to the Golgi network [Feng et al. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 2003;100:6469-6474; Yarrow et al. Comb Chem High Throughput Screen 2003;6:279-286; Feng et al. EMBO Reports 2004: in press]. Here, we screened these inhibitors for potential effects on endocytic membrane traffic. Two structurally related sulfonamides were found to be potent and reversible inhibitors of transferrin-mediated iron uptake. These inhibitors do not block endoplasmic reticulum-to-Golgi transport, but do disrupt Golgi-to-cell surface traffic. The compounds are members of a novel class of sulfonamides that elevate endosomal and lysosomal pH, down-regulate cell surface receptors, and impair recycling of internalized transferrin receptors to the plasma membrane. In vitro experiments revealed that the sulfonamides directly inhibit adenosine triphosphate (ATP) hydrolysis by the V-ATPase and that they also possess a potent proton ionophore activity. While maintenance of organellar pH is known to be a critical factor in both endocytosis and exocytosis, the precise role of acidification, beyond the uncoupling of ligands from their receptors, remains largely unknown. Identification of this novel class of sulfonamide inhibitors provides new chemical tools to better understand the function of organelle pH in membrane traffic and the activity of V-ATPases in particular.

Renal vacuolar H+-ATPase

Vacuolar H(+)-ATPases are ubiquitous multisubunit complexes mediating the ATP-dependent transport of protons. In addition to their role in acidifying the lumen of various intracellular organelles, vacuolar H(+)-ATPases fulfill special tasks in the kidney. Vacuolar H(+)-ATPases are expressed in the plasma membrane in the kidney almost along the entire length of the nephron with apical and/or basolateral localization patterns. In the proximal tubule, a high number of vacuolar H(+)-ATPases are also found in endosomes, which are acidified by the pump. In addition, vacuolar H(+)-ATPases contribute to proximal tubular bicarbonate reabsorption. The importance in final urinary acidification along the collecting system is highlighted by monogenic defects in two subunits (ATP6V0A4, ATP6V1B1) of the vacuolar H(+)-ATPase in patients with distal renal tubular acidosis. The activity of vacuolar H(+)-ATPases is tightly regulated by a variety of factors such as the acid-base or electrolyte status. This regulation is at least in part mediated by various hormones and protein-protein interactions between regulatory proteins and multiple subunits of the pump.

Cellular mechanism of inhibition of osteoclastic resorption of bone and calcified cartilage by long-term pamidronate administration in ovariectomized mature rats

We examined the effects of long-term bisphosphonate (BP, pamidronate) administration at a therapeutic dose (1.5 mg/kg/day) on the distribution, structure, and vacuolar-type H(+)-ATPase expression of osteoclasts, and the resulting trabecular bone volume and structure in ovariectomized (OVX) mature rats. Six-month-old female rats were allocated to sham-operated control, untreated-OVX, and BP-administered OVX groups. Postoperatively, BP was administered intraperitoneally once a day to OVX rats for up to 30 days. On postoperative days 14, 30, and 60, all of the rats were killed and the distal metaphyseal area of the dissected humeri was examined. Quantitative backscattered-electron image analysis revealed that the trabecular bone volume/unit medullary area in untreated OVX rats was significantly (P < 0.05) lower than that in sham-operated controls at 30 and 60 days postoperation. BP administration significantly (P < 0.05) increased trabecular bone volume at 14, 30, and 60 days postoperation in BP-administered OVX rats compared to both sham-operated and untreated OVX rats. Compared to untreated OVX rats, the number of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-positive osteoclasts along the bone trabeculae in BP-administered OVX rats was not significantly decreased on days 14 and 30, but was significantly decreased on day 60. Ultrastructurally, BP administration caused the disappearance of both the ruffled border (RB) and the clear zone (CZ) structures, and decreased the expression of vacuolar-type H(+)-ATPase in most osteoclasts, but did not significantly induce apoptosis of osteoclasts detected by the terminal dUTP nick end-labeling (TUNEL) method. Our results suggest that long-term BP administration significantly reduces bone and calcified cartilage resorption through impairment of the structure and bone-resorbing function of osteoclasts, and thereby effectively maintains trabecular bone volume and structure in ovariectomy-induced acute estrogen deficiency in mature rats.

Mitochondrial membrane permeabilization is a critical step of lysosome-initiated apoptosis induced by hydroxychloroquine

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is a lysosomotropic amine with cytotoxic properties. Here, we show that HCQ induces signs of lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP), such as the decrease in the lysosomal pH gradient and the release of cathepsin B from the lysosomal lumen, followed by signs of apoptosis including caspase activation, phosphatidylserine exposure, and chromatin condensation with DNA loss. HCQ also induces mitochondrial membrane permeabilization (MMP), as indicated by the insertion of Bax into mitochondrial membranes, the conformational activation of Bax within mitochondria, the release of cytochrome c from mitochondria, and the loss of the mitochondrial transmembrane potential. To determine the molecular order among these events, we introduced inhibitors of LMP (bafilomycin A(1)), MMP (Bcl-X(L), wild-type Bcl-2, mitochondrion-targeted Bcl-2, or viral mitochondrial inhibitor of apoptosis from cytomegalovirus), and caspases (Z-VAD.fmk) into the system. Our data indicate that caspase-independent MMP is rate-limiting for LMP-mediated caspase activation. Mouse embryonic fibroblasts lacking the expression of both Bax and Bak are resistant against hydroxychloroquine-induced apoptosis. Such Bax(-/-) Bak(-/-) cells manifest normal LMP, yet fail to undergo MMP and subsequent cell death. The data reported herein indicate that LMP does not suffice to trigger caspase activation and that Bax/Bak-dependent MMP is a critical step of LMP-induced cell death.

Specific biological functions of vacuolar-type H(+)-ATPase and lysosomal cysteine proteinase, cathepsin K, in osteoclasts

We report the effects of specific and potent inhibitors of vacular-type H(+)-ATPase and lysosomal cysteine proteinases, cathepsins, on the ultrastructure, expression of these enzymes, and resorptive functions of cultured osteoclasts. Osteoclasts were formed by co-culture of marrow cells and calvarial primary osteoblasts of ddY mice. Formed osteoclasts were cultured on dentine slices for 6-48 hr with either an H(+)-ATPase inhibitor, bafilomycin A1, or a cysteine proteinase inhibitor, E-64. In control cultures with no additive, osteoclasts were structurally characterized by the development of ruffled borders and clear zones, and formed many resorption lacunae on dentine slices. Both H(+)-ATPase and cathepsin K were strongly expressed in the ruffled borders of these osteoclasts. In bafilomycin A1-treated cultures, osteoclasts lacked ruffled borders, and resorption lacuna formation was markedly diminished. This effect of bafilomycin A1 on osteoclast structure was reversible by removal of the compound. Bafilomycin A1 treatment altered the subcellular localization and decreased the expression of H(+)-ATPase molecules. H(+)-ATPase expression was observed throughout the cytoplasm, but not along the plasma membranes facing dentine slices. On the other hand, E-64 treatment did not affect the ultrastructure of osteoclasts and the expression of enzyme molecules. Although E-64 showed no effect on demineralization of dentine slices, it dose-dependently reduced resorption lacuna formation. Our results suggest that 1) bafilomycin A1 dose-dependently inhibits resorption lacuna formation via inhibition of ruffled border formation, 2) H(+)-ATPase expression is closely associated with the cytoskeleton of osteoclasts, and 3) E-64 treatment decreases the depth of resorption lacunae, by inhibition of secreted cathepsin K activity, but does not impair ruffled border formation and the associated expression of H(+)-ATPase and cathepsin K in osteoclasts.

Characterization of yeast V-ATPase mutants lacking Vph1p or Stv1p and the effect on endocytosis

Subunit a of V-ATPase in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, in contrast to its other subunits, is encoded by two genes VPH1 and STV1. While disruption of any other gene encoding the V-ATPase subunits results in growth arrest at pH 7.5, null mutants of Vph1p or Stv1p can grow at this pH. We used a polyclonal antibody to yeast Stv1p and a commercially available monoclonal antibody to Vph1p for analysis of yeast membranes by sucrose gradient fractionation, and two different vital dyes to characterize the phenotype of vph1 ▵ and stv1 ▵mutants as compared to the double mutant and the wild-type cells. Immunological assays of sucrose gradient fractions revealed that the amount of Stv1p was elevated in the vph1 ▵ strain, and that vacuoles purified by this method with no detectable endosomal contamination contain an assembled V-ATPase complex, but with much lower activity than the wild type. These results suggest that Stv1p compensates for the loss of Vph1p in the vph1 ▵ strain. LysoSensor Green DND-189 was used as a pH sensor to demonstrate unexpected changes in vacuolar acidification in stv1▵ as the Vph1p-containing V-ATPase complex is commonly considered to acidify the vacuoles. In the vph1 ▵ strain, the dye revealed slight but definite acidification of the vacuole as well. The lipophilic dye FM4-64 was used as an endocytic marker. We show that the null V-ATPase mutants, as well as the vph1 ▵ one, markedly slow down endocytosis of the dye.

Abnormal glycosylation and altered Golgi structure in colorectal cancer: dependence on intra-Golgi pH

Abnormal glycosylation of cellular glycoconjugates is a common phenotypic change in many human tumors. Here, we explore the possibility that an altered Golgi pH may also be responsible for these cancer-associated glycosylation abnormalities. We show that a mere dissipation of the acidic Golgi pH results both in increased expression of some cancer-associated carbohydrate antigens and in structural disorganization of the Golgi apparatus in otherwise normally glycosylating cells. pH dependence of these alterations was confirmed by showing that an acidification-defective breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) also displayed a fragmented Golgi apparatus, whereas the Golgi apparatus was structurally normal in its acidification-competent subline (MCF-7/AdrR). Acidification competence was also found to rescue normal glycosylation potential in MCF-7/AdrR cells. Finally, we show that abnormal glycosylation is also accompanied by similar structural disorganization and fragmentation of the Golgi apparatus in colorectal cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. These results suggest that an inappropriate Golgi pH may indeed be responsible for the abnormal Golgi structure and lowered glycosylation potential of the Golgi apparatus in malignant cells.

Immunolocalization of vacuolar-type H+-ATPase, cathepsin K, matrix metalloproteinase-9, and receptor activator of NFkappaB ligand in odontoclasts during physiological root resorption of human deciduous teeth

To investigate the cellular mechanisms of physiological root resorption in human deciduous teeth, the authors examined the immunocytochemical localization of vacuolar-type H+-ATPase, a lysosomal cysteine proteinase, cathepsin K, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and receptor activator of NFKB ligand (RANKL) in odontoclasts. H+-ATPase, cathepsin K, and MMP-9 are the most important enzymes for decalcification of apatite crystals and degradation of type-I collagen. In addition, RANKL is one of the key regulatory molecules in osteoclast formation and functions. Odontoclasts developed extensive ruffled borders and clear zones apposed to the resorbing root dentine surfaces. On immunoelectron microscopy, the expression of vacuolar-type H+-ATPase was detected along the limiting membranes of pale vacuoles and the ruffled border membranes of odontoclasts. Cathepsin K in odontoclasts was localized within pale vacuoles, lysosomes, the extracellular canals of ruffled borders, and the underlying resorbing dentine surfaces. MMP-9 localization in odontoclasts was similar to those of cathepsin K. RANKL was detected in both mononuclear stromal cells and odontoclasts located on resorbing dentine surfaces. These results suggest that (1) odontoclasts are directly involved in decalcification of apatite crystals by active extrusion of proton ions mediated by H+-ATPase and (2) extracellular degradation of dentine type-I collagen by both cathepsin K and MMP-9, and (3) odontoclast differentiation and activity are regulated, at least in part, by RANKL, possibly produced by mononuclear stromal cells and odontoclasts themselves in the resorbing tissues. Thus, the cellular mechanisms of physiological root resorption appear to be quite similar to those of osteoclastic bone resorption.

Features of V-ATPases that distinguish them from F-ATPases

The general structure of F- and V-ATPases is quite similar and they may share a common mechanism of action that involves mechanochemical energy transduction. Both holoenzymes are composed of catalytic sectors, F1 and V1 respectively, and membrane sectors, F(o) and V(o) respectively. Although we assume that a similar mechanism underlies ATP-dependent proton pumping by F- and V-ATPases in eukaryotic cells, the latter cannot catalyze pmf-driven ATP synthesis. The loss of this ability is probably due to a proton slip that is a consequence of alterations in its membrane sector. The major events include gene duplication of the proteolipids and the presence of three distinct proteolipids in each complex.

Intracellular apoptosis-inducing factor is induced by a vacuolar type H+-ATPase inhibitor in B lineage cells

We previously reported that concanamycin A, a specific inhibitor of vacuolar type H+-ATPases, induces DNA fragmentation in B cell hybridoma HS-72 cells. In the present study, we found that the cytosol from concanamycin A-treated HS-72 cells had a cytotoxic effect on intact cells in a cell viability assay. While activin A also induced apoptosis in HS-72 cells, the cytosol from activin A-treated HS-72 cells had no effect on cell viability. We purified the cytosol from concanamycin A-treated HS-72 cells by a four-step procedure: ultracentrifugation; HiTrap heparin column chromatography; HiTrap Q column chromatography; and reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography on a C18 hydrophobic support. The biologically active fraction, which was used as partially purified cytosol, gave a specific band of protein with a molecular mass of 33 kDa by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The mechanism of cell death was examined by observing changes in nuclear morphology, an increase in the proportion of fragmented DNA, and the typical ladder pattern of degraded chromosomal DNA, indicating the induction of apoptosis in cells cultured with the partially purified cytosol. The overexpression of human Bcl-2 suppressed apoptosis, indicating that the cytosol from concanamycin A-treated HS-72 cells induces apoptosis by a Bcl-2-inhibiting mechanism. These findings suggest that concanamycin A, a vacuolar type H+-ATPase inhibitor, produces intracellular apoptosis-inducing factor in B cell hybridoma.

Bisphosphonate administration alters subcellular localization of vacuolar-type H(+)-ATPase and cathepsin K in osteoclasts during experimental movement of rat molars

This study was designed to clarify the effects of bisphosphonate (BP) administration on structure and functions of osteoclasts in alveolar bone resorption during experimental movement of rat molars. To produce orthodontic force, elastic band was inserted between the upper first and second molars for 4 days, and dissected maxillae were then examined by means of light and electron microscopic immunocytochemistry for vacuolar-type H(+)-ATPase and lysosomal cystein proteinase, cathepsin K in osteoclasts. Vacuolar-type H(+)-ATPase and cathepsin K in osteoclasts are the most important enzymes for demineralization of apatite crystals and degradation of bone type-I collagen, respectively. At 1 day before elastic band insertion, BP was administered intraperitoneally. Control rats received the same volume of physiologic saline. In BP-administered rats, most osteoclasts exhibited either irregularly-formed ruffled borders and clear zones or only clear zones of various degrees of extension. Subcellular localization and expression of both vacuolar-type H(+)-ATPase and cathepsin K was significantly decreased in such osteoclasts with impaired ruffled borders and/or only clear zones by BP administration. In particular, cathepsin K secretion by osteoclasts towards resorption lacunae was markedly inhibited by BP administration. Our results indicate for the first time that BP administration significantly impair the osteoclast structure and reduces expression of both vacuolar-type H(+)-ATPase and cathepsin K in osteoclasts during tooth movement.

Purification and structure of neurostatin, an inhibitor of astrocyte division of mammalian brain

Neurostatin was originally described as an inhibitor of astroblast and astrocytoma division present in rat brain extracts and immunologically related to the sugar moiety of epidermal growth factor receptor and to blood group antigens. It was purified recently from mammalian brain extracts and characterized as a glycosphingolipid, but its precise structure remained unknown. Neurostatin has now been purified to apparent homogeneity from ganglioside extracts of rat, bovine, and porcine brain. It is cytostatic for astroblasts, C6 glioma cells, and various human astrocytomas grades III and IV, with IC(50) values ranging from 250 to 450 nM, but does not affect the division of primary or transformed fibroblasts up to concentrations >4 microM. Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry of purified pig neurostatin showed a molecular ion of 1, 905 Da and ions of 1,863 and 1,934 Da, compatible with a disialoganglioside. Mono- and bidimensional NMR spectra, together with biochemical studies, suggest that neurostatin may be the 9-O-monoacetyl ester of GD1b.

Recycling of AQP2 occurs through a temperature- and bafilomycin-sensitive trans-Golgi-associated compartment

The exo- and endocytotic pathway in which aquaporin-2 (AQP2) travels between the plasma membrane and intracellular vesicles is only partially characterized. It is known that the antidiuretic hormone vasopressin induces a translocation of AQP2 from an intracellular to a plasma membrane location, both in kidney collecting duct principal cells and in transfected epithelial cells. Here we provide evidence suggesting that while AQP2 shifts from an intracellular location to the cell surface in response to vasopressin, AQP2 also constitutively recycles through a similar pathway in transfected LLC-PK(1) cells even in the absence of hormonal stimulation. Incubating cells at 20 degrees C blocks AQP2 recycling in a perinuclear compartment, regardless of whether vasopressin is present. The H(+)-ATPase inhibitor bafilomycin A1 also blocks the recycling pathway of AQP2 in a perinuclear compartment adjacent to the Golgi in the presence and absence of vasopressin stimulation, indicating a role of vesicle acidification in both the constitutive and regulated recycling of AQP2. Colocalization of AQP2 with clathrin, but not with giantin, after both bafilomycin treatment and a 20 degrees C block suggests that the compartment in which recycling AQP2 is blocked may be the trans-Golgi, and not cis- and medial-Golgi cisternae.

Golgi alkalinization by the papillomavirus E5 oncoprotein

The E5 oncoprotein of bovine papillomavirus type I is a small, hydrophobic polypeptide localized predominantly in the Golgi complex. E5-mediated transformation is often associated with activation of the PDGF receptor (PDGF-R). However, some E5 mutants fail to induce PDGF-R phosphorylation yet retain transforming activity, suggesting an additional mechanism of action. Since E5 also interacts with the 16-kD pore-forming subunit of the vacuolar H(+)-ATPase (V-ATPase), the oncoprotein could conceivably interfere with the pH homeostasis of the Golgi complex. A pH-sensitive, fluorescent bacterial toxin was used to label this organelle and Golgi pH (pH(G)) was measured by ratio imaging. Whereas pH(G) of untreated cells was acidic (6.5), no acidification was detected in E5-transfected cells (pH approximately 7.0). The Golgi buffering power and the rate of H(+) leakage were found to be comparable in control and transfected cells. Instead, the E5-induced pH differential was attributed to impairment of V-ATPase activity, even though the amount of ATPase present in the Golgi complex was unaltered. Mutations that abolished binding of E5 to the 16-kD subunit or that targeted the oncoprotein to the endoplasmic reticulum abrogated Golgi alkalinization and cellular transformation. Moreover, transformation-competent E5 mutants that were defective for PDGF-R activation alkalinized the Golgi lumen. Neither transformation by sis nor src, two oncoproteins in the PDGF-R signaling pathway, affected pH(G). We conclude that alkalinization of the Golgi complex represents a new biological activity of the E5 oncoprotein that correlates with cellular transformation.

Vacuolar and plasma membrane proton-adenosinetriphosphatases

The vacuolar H+-ATPase (V-ATPase) is one of the most fundamental enzymes in nature. It functions in almost every eukaryotic cell and energizes a wide variety of organelles and membranes. V-ATPases have similar structure and mechanism of action with F-ATPase and several of their subunits evolved from common ancestors. In eukaryotic cells, F-ATPases are confined to the semi-autonomous organelles, chloroplasts, and mitochondria, which contain their own genes that encode some of the F-ATPase subunits. In contrast to F-ATPases, whose primary function in eukaryotic cells is to form ATP at the expense of the proton-motive force (pmf), V-ATPases function exclusively as ATP-dependent proton pumps. The pmf generated by V-ATPases in organelles and membranes of eukaryotic cells is utilized as a driving force for numerous secondary transport processes. The mechanistic and structural relations between the two enzymes prompted us to suggest similar functional units in V-ATPase as was proposed to F-ATPase and to assign some of the V-ATPase subunit to one of four parts of a mechanochemical machine: a catalytic unit, a shaft, a hook, and a proton turbine. It was the yeast genetics that allowed the identification of special properties of individual subunits and the discovery of factors that are involved in the enzyme biogenesis and assembly. The V-ATPases play a major role as energizers of animal plasma membranes, especially apical plasma membranes of epithelial cells. This role was first recognized in plasma membranes of lepidopteran midgut and vertebrate kidney. The list of animals with plasma membranes that are energized by V-ATPases now includes members of most, if not all, animal phyla. This includes the classical Na+ absorption by frog skin, male fertility through acidification of the sperm acrosome and the male reproductive tract, bone resorption by mammalian osteoclasts, and regulation of eye pressure. V-ATPase may function in Na+ uptake by trout gills and energizes water secretion by contractile vacuoles in Dictyostelium. V-ATPase was first detected in organelles connected with the vacuolar system. It is the main if not the only primary energy source for numerous transport systems in these organelles. The driving force for the accumulation of neurotransmitters into synaptic vesicles is pmf generated by V-ATPase. The acidification of lysosomes, which are required for the proper function of most of their enzymes, is provided by V-ATPase. The enzyme is also vital for the proper function of endosomes and the Golgi apparatus. In contrast to yeast vacuoles that maintain an internal pH of approximately 5.5, it is believed that the vacuoles of lemon fruit may have a pH as low as 2. Similarly, some brown and red alga maintain internal pH as low as 0.1 in their vacuoles. One of the outstanding questions in the field is how such a conserved enzyme as the V-ATPase can fulfill such diverse functions.

Molecular architecture of the c-subunit oligomer in the membrane domain of F-ATPases probed by tryptophan substitution mutagenesis

Subunit c of the proton-transporting ATP synthase of Escherichia coli forms an oligomeric complex in the membrane domain that functions in transmembrane proton conduction. In order to gain some insight into the architecture of this oligomeric complex, the transmembrane region in the C-terminal membrane-spanning segment was analysed by a site-directed mutagenesis approach. Tryptophan substitution of consecutive residues in positions 61 to 72 of subunit c was used to identify residues oriented towards a helix-helix surface or an accessible phase in the oligomeric complex. Mutants were analysed in functional assays of ATP hydrolysis, ATP synthesis and ATP-dependent proton transport. Function was disrupted according to a pattern that identified inter- and intramolecular contacts in the c-subunit oligomer. Screening experiments on minimal medium support the helix-helix contacts found in the functional assays. The results add strong constraints to the potential orientation of the monomers in the oligomeric complex and are discussed against the background of different structural models that have been proposed for the c-subunit oligomer.

Increase in Bcl-2 level promoted by CD40 ligation correlates with inhibition of B cell apoptosis induced by vacuolar type H(+)-ATPase inhibitor

We have previously demonstrated that cell death of WEHI-231 cells induced by specific inhibitors of vacuolar type H(+)-ATPase (V-ATPase) occurs through apoptosis. CD40 is involved in regulating activation, differentiation, and apoptosis of B cells. Here we show that the CD40 ligation rescues WEHI-231 cells from apoptotic cell death induced by a specific V-ATPase inhibitor, concanamycin A. CD40 signaling with anti-CD40 antibody resulted in the induction of Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL proteins in WEHI-231 cells. Constitutive expression of Bcl-2 but not Bcl-XL inhibited concanamycin A-induced apoptosis. These findings suggest that the expression of Bcl-2 mediated through CD40 signaling rescues the apoptotic cell death induced by blockade of V-ATPase. Interestingly, the acidification of intracellular acidic compartments was completely inhibited when WEHI-231 cells were cultured with concanamycin A, even in the presence of anti-CD40 antibody. In addition, apoptosis in WEHI-231 cells induced by concanamycin A was strongly suppressed when cultured with imidazole, a cell-permeable base, suggesting that apoptosis induced by concanamycin A is preceded by intraacidification.

Specific inhibitors of vacuolar H(+)-ATPase trigger apoptotic cell death of osteoclasts

Osteoclasts are multinucleated bone-resorbing cells that play a critical role in bone remodeling. Specific inhibitors of vacuolar H(+)-ATPase (V-ATPase), concanamycin A and bafilomycin A1, abolish bone resorption by osteoclasts. In this study, we examined whether these V-ATPase inhibitors trigger apoptotic cell death in osteoclasts, using murine osteoclast-like multinucleated cells (OCLs) formed in vitro. Acridine orange staining revealed that the treatment of OCLs with concanamycin A resulted in chromatin condensation and alterations in nuclear morphology within a few hours. The TdT-mediated dUTP-nick-end labeling (TUNEL) reaction confirmed the apoptotic features of OCLs treated with concanamycin A. The accelerated apoptotic cell death induced by concanamycin A occurred in OCLs treated with interleukin-1 alpha or macrophage colony-stimulating factor as well, which are known to elongate the survival time of osteoclasts. In contrast, these inhibitors did not induce cell death of osteoblastic cells isolated from mouse calvaria. These results suggest that functional impairment of V-ATPase triggers apoptotic cell death in osteoclasts.

Proteolytic processing of pro-opiomelanocortin occurs in acidifying secretory granules of AtT-20 cells

Using antibodies specific for pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC), amidated joining peptide (JP), and the prohormone convertase PC1, we showed immunocytochemically that PC1 in a corticotrophic tumor cell line, AtT-20, was co-localized either with POMC or with amidated JP in secretory granules, and also confirmed that POMC was cleaved mainly in secretory granules. Analysis using DAMP (3- [2,4-dinitroanilino]-3'-amino-N-methyldipropylamine) as the pH probe suggested a correlation between POMC processing and acidic pH in the secretory granules. Bafilomycin A1, a specific inhibitor of vacuolar-type H(+)-ATPase, completely inhibited POMC processing and caused constitutive secretion of the unprocessed precursor. By contrast, chloroquine, a weak base that is known to neutralize acidic organelles, was unable to inhibit POMC processing. Electron microscopic analysis revealed that, in AtT-20 cells treated with bafilomycin A1, the trans-Golgi cisternae were dilated and few secretory granules were present in the cytoplasm. These observations suggest that acidic pH provides a favorable environment for proteolytic processing of POMC by PC1 but is not required, and that integrity of the trans-Golgi network and sorting of POMC into secretory granules are important for POMC processing.

Distributional changes of osteoclasts and pre-osteoclastic cells in periodontal tissues during experimental tooth movement as revealed by quantitative immunohistochemistry of H(+)-ATPase

To investigate the mechanism of alveolar bone remodeling in response to orthodontic force application, we examined the distribution of osteoclasts and pre-osteoclastic cells using quantitative immunohistochemistry of vacuolar type H(+)-ATPase. For orthodontic force to be produced by the Waldo method, an orthodontic elastic band was inserted between the upper first and second molars of rats. The observed areas of periodontal tissues around second molars were the distal surfaces of mesial roots, as the pressure side, and the mesial surfaces of distal roots, as the tension side. Specific expression of vacuolar-type H(+)-ATPase at the ultrastructural level was detected in mononuclear and multinucleated pre-osteoclastic cells, as well as osteoclasts with ruffled borders on bone surfaces. At 6 hrs after orthodontic force application, many osteoclasts and pre-osteoclastic cells with H(+)-ATPase expression were first observed in vascular canals of the alveolar bone crest near the pressure side of the periodontal ligament, but the number of osteoclasts was not increased in the periodontal ligament. On day 1 after tooth movement, osteoclasts were increased in number in the periodontal ligament and in adjacent alveolar bones on the pressure side, but were seldom observed in corresponding areas on the tension side. The number of osteoclasts increased until day 7, but had decreased by day 14. These results suggest that, in bone remodeling during experimental tooth movement, (1) osteoclasts and pre-osteoclastic cells can be identified by H(+)-ATPase immunohistochemistry, (2) osteoclasts and pre-osteoclastic cells are rapidly induced after force application, (3) osteoclast induction first occurs in vascular canals of the alveolar bone crest on the pressure side, and then, (4) the number of osteoclasts increases in the periodontal ligament on the pressure side.

Vacuolar H(+)-ATPase: from mammals to yeast and back

Vacuolar H(+)-adenosine triphosphatase (V-ATPase) is composed of distinct catalytic (V1) and membrane (V0) sectors containing several subunits. The biochemistry of the enzyme was mainly studied in organelles from mammalian cells such as chromaffin granules and clathrin-coated vesicles. Subsequently, mammalian cDNAs and yeast genes encoding subunits of V-ATPase were cloned and sequenced. The sequence information revealed the relation between V- and F-ATPase that evolved from a common ancestor. The isolation of yeast genes encoding subunits of V-ATPase opened an avenue for molecular biology studies of the enzyme. Because V-ATPase is present in every known eukaryotic cell and provides energy for vital transport systems, it was anticipated that disruption of genes encoding V-ATPase subunits would be lethal. Fortunately, yeast cells can survive the absence of V-ATPase by 'drinking' the acidic medium. So far only yeast cells have been shown to be viable without an active V-ATPase. In contrast to yeast, mammalian cells may have more than one gene encoding each of the subunits of the enzyme. Some of these genes encode tissue- and/or organelle-specific subunits. Expression of these specific cDNAs in yeast cells may reveal their unique functions in mammalian cells. Following the route from mammals to yeast and back may prove useful in the study of many other complicated processes.

Biochemical characterization of a V-ATPase of tracheal smooth muscle plasma membrane fraction

A biochemical characterization of a Mg(2+)-ATPase activity associated with a plasma membrane fraction isolated from airway (tracheal) smooth muscle was performed. This enzyme is an integral part of the membrane remaining tightly bound after 0.6 M KCl extraction. This enzyme activity showed a cold inactivation in the presence of ATP and Mg2+. Also, this Mg(2+)-ATPase was stimulated by monovalent anions being Cl-, the best anion for such stimulation, even though Br- and I- were good substitutes and F- was ineffective. This Cl--stimulated activity showed a powerful nucleosidetriphosphatase activity having the following divalent cation specificity: Mg2+ > Mn2+ > Ca2+, where Zn2+ and Fe2+ were ineffective. This ATPase activity was not inhibited by ouabain oligomycin C and vanadate indicating that neither P- or F-ATPases were associated with this enzyme activity. However, the existence of a V-ATPase was shown by the significant inhibition causes by bafilomycin A1. Additionally, this V-ATPase seems to be coupled to Cl- conductor because duramycin inhibited this ATPase activity. The presence of a H+ pump associated to this V-ATPase was shown indirectly, through the stimulatory effect produced by uncouplers such as FCCP and 1799, which were able to produce significant stimulation of this V-ATPase indicating the existence of a H(+)-ATPase. Finally, the immunodetection of a 72 kDa polypeptide using a specific antibody against the A subunit (72 kDa) of V-ATPase from chromaffin granule demonstrated the presence of a V-ATPase in this plasma membrane fraction.

Acidification of serotonin-containing secretory vesicles induced by a plasma membrane calcium receptor

Parafollicular (PF) cells secrete 5-hydroxytryptamine in response to increased extracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]e). This stimulus causes Cl- channels in PF secretory vesicles to open, leading to vesicle acidification. PF cells express a plasmalemmal heptahelical receptor (CaR) that binds Ca2+, Gd3+, and Ba2+. We now report that the CaR mediates vesicle acidification. Ca2+, Gd3+, and Ba2+ induced vesicle acidification, which was independent of channel-mediated Ca2+ entry. Agonist-induced vesicle acidification was blocked by pertussis toxin, inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol-phospholipase C, calmodulin, NO synthase, guanylyl cyclase, or protein kinase G. PF cells contained NO synthase immunoreactivity, and vesicles were acidified by NO donors and dibutyryl cGMP. [Ca2+]e, and Gd3+ mobilized thapsigargin-sensitive internal Ca2+ stores. [35S]G alpha i and [35S]G alpha q were immunoprecipitated from PF membranes incubated with agonists in the presence of [35S]adenosine 5'-O-(thiotriphosphate). Labeling of G alpha i but not G alpha q was antagonized by pertussis toxin. Vesicles acidified in response to activation of protein kinase C; however, protein kinase C inhibition blocked calcium channel- but not CaR-dependent acidification. We propose the following signal transduction pathway: CaR -> Gi -> phosphatidylinositol-phospholipase C -> inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate -> [Ca2+]i -> Ca2+/calmodulin -> NO synthase -> NO -> guanylyl cyclase -> cGMP -> protein kinase G -> opens vesicular Cl- channel.

Intra-Golgi transport inhibition by megalomicin

Megalomicin (MGM) is a macrolide antibiotic which has been demonstrated previously to cause an anomalous glycosylation of viral proteins. Here we show that MGM produces profound alterations on Golgi morphology and function. The addition of MGM at 50 microM for 1 h caused a dilation of the Golgi detected by immunofluorescence staining for medial- and trans-Golgi markers. The effect of MGM was clearly more intense on the trans-side of the Golgi, as evidenced in electron microscope preparations. The effect on Golgi morphology was reversible and correlated with an impairment of glycoprotein processing in the trans-Golgi. Thus, although the vesicular stomatitis virus G protein was processed in the presence of MGM to an endoglycosidase H-resistant form, it was poorly sialylated. The sialylation of cellular proteins was also inhibited, resulting in cells with low level of sialylation on the cell surface. However MGM did not inhibit the activities of the galactosyl- or sialyltransferase as measured in vitro. MGM inhibited cis- to medial-, and more strongly, medial- to trans-Golgi transport of vesicular stomatitis virus G protein in an in vitro system, suggesting that the impairment in glycoprotein maturation observed in vivo is the result of intra-Golgi transport inhibition.

Microvesicles isolated from bovine posterior pituitary accumulate norepinephrine

Histochemical study indicated that the posterior pituitary possesses numerous microvesicles (MVs) containing synaptophysin, a marker protein specific for brain synaptic vesicles (Navone, F., Di Gioia, G., Jahn, R., Browning, M., Greengard, P., and De Camilli, P. (1989) J. Cell Biol. 109, 3425-2433). By monitoring cross-reactivity with anti-synaptophysin antibody, the MVs were highly purified from bovine posterior pituitaries by a combination of differential and sucrose density gradient centrifugations. The purified MVs had an average diameter of about 60 nm and were associated with synaptophysin as revealed by immunoelectron microscopy. The vesicles contained ATPase activity partially sensitive to bafilomycin A1 and to vanadate. The membrane fraction immunoisolated with anti-synaptophysin antibody also exhibited similar ATPase activity. The two ATPases could be purified separately; the vandate-sensitive enzyme was identified as a 115-kDa polypeptide immunochemically similar to chromaffin granule P-ATPase (forming phosphoenzyme intermediate), and the bafilomycin A1-sensitive ATPase showed essentially the same properties as those of vacuolar type H(+)-ATPases. Upon addition of ATP, the MVs formed an electrochemical gradient of protons and took up norepinephrine in a reserpine-sensitive manner, indicating the presence of secondary monoamine transporter coupled with vacuolar type H(+)-ATPase. No uptake of L-glutamate, gamma-aminobutyrate, glycine, or acetylcholine was observed. The identification of MVs as organelles responsible for storage of monoamines is important for understanding the physiological function of the posterior pituitary.

Transcriptional regulation of the vacuolar H(+)-ATPase B2 subunit gene in differentiating THP-1 cells

Monocyte-macrophage differentiation was used as a model system for studying gene regulation of the human vacuolar H(+)-ATPase (V-ATPase). We examined mRNA levels of various V-ATPase subunits during differentiation of both native monocytes and the cell line THP-1, and found that transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms could account for increases in cell V-ATPase content. From nuclear runoff experiments, we found that one subunit in particular, the B2 isoform (Mr = 56,000), was amplified primarily by transcriptional means. We have begun to examine the structure of the B2 subunit promoter region. Isolation and sequencing of the first exon and 5'-flanking region of this gene reveal a TATA-less promoter with a high G + C content. Primer extension and ribonuclease protection analyses indicate a single major transcriptional start site. We transfected promoter-luciferase reporter plasmids into THP-1 cells to define sequences that mediate transcriptional control during monocyte differentiation. We found that sequences downstream from the transcriptional start site were sufficient to confer increased expression during THP-1 differentiation. DNase I footprinting and sequence analysis revealed the existence of multiple AP2 and Sp1 binding sites in the 5'-untranslated and proximal coding regions.

Differential effects of compartment deacidification on the targeting of membrane and soluble proteins to the vacuole in yeast

Lysosomal/vacuolar protein targeting is dependent on compartment acidification. In yeast, sorting of soluble vacuolar proteins such as carboxypeptidase Y is sensitive to acute changes in vacuolar pH. In contrast, the vacuolar membrane protein alkaline phosphatase is missorted only under conditions of chronic deacidification. We have undertaken a temporal analysis to define further the relationship between compartment acidification and sorting of soluble and membrane vacuolar proteins. Depletion of either the Vma3p or Vma4p subunits of the yeast vacuolar ATPase over time resulted in loss of vacuolar ATPase activity and vacuolar acidification. A kinetic delay in processing of carboxypeptidase Y occurred concomitant with these physiological changes while transport of alkaline phosphatase remained unaffected. Carboxypeptidase S, another vacuolar hydrolase that transits through the secretory pathway as an integral membrane protein, displayed a pH sensitivity similar to that of soluble vacuolar proteins. These results indicate that compartment acidification is tightly coupled to efficient targeting of proteins to the vacuole and that there may be multiple distinct mechanisms for targeting of vacuolar membrane proteins.