The kinetics of phosphoinositide hydrolysis in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) cells varies with the type of IgE receptor cross-linking agent used

Regulation of Hematopoietic Cell Development and Function Through Phosphoinositides

One of the most paramount receptor-induced signal transduction mechanisms in hematopoietic cells is production of the lipid second messenger phosphatidylinositol(3,4,5)trisphosphate (PIP₃) by class I phosphoinositide 3 kinases (PI3K). Defective PIP₃ signaling impairs almost every aspect of hematopoiesis, including T cell development and function. Limiting PIP₃ signaling is particularly important, because excessive PIP₃ function in lymphocytes can transform them and cause blood cancers. Here, we review the key functions of PIP₃ and related phosphoinositides in hematopoietic cells, with a special focus on those mechanisms dampening PIP₃ production, turnover, or function. Recent studies have shown that beyond “canonical” turnover by the PIP₃ phosphatases and tumor suppressors phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and SH2 domain-containing inositol-5-phosphatase-1 (SHIP-1/2), PIP₃ function in hematopoietic cells can also be dampened through antagonism with the soluble PIP₃ analogs inositol(1,3,4,5)tetrakisphosphate (IP₄) and inositol-heptakisphosphate (IP₇). Other evidence suggests that IP₄ can promote PIP₃ function in thymocytes. Moreover, IP₄ or the kinases producing it limit store-operated Ca²⁺ entry through Orai channels in B cells, T cells, and neutrophils to control cell survival and function. We discuss current models for how soluble inositol phosphates can have such diverse functions and can govern as distinct processes as hematopoietic stem cell homeostasis, neutrophil macrophage and NK cell function, and development and function of B cells and T cells. Finally, we will review the pathological consequences of dysregulated IP₄ activity in immune cells and highlight contributions of impaired inositol phosphate functions in disorders such as Kawasaki disease, common variable immunodeficiency, or blood cancer.

Regulation of immune cell development through soluble inositol-1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate

The membrane lipid phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate (PtdInsP(3)) regulates membrane receptor signalling in many cells, including immunoreceptor signalling. Here, we review recent data that have indicated essential roles for the soluble PtdInsP(3) analogue inositol-1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate (InsP(4)) in T cell, B cell and neutrophil development and function. Decreased InsP(4) production in leukocytes causes immunodeficiency in mice and might contribute to inflammatory vasculitis in Kawasaki disease in humans. InsP(4)-producing kinases could therefore provide attractive drug targets for inflammatory and infectious diseases.

Phosphoinositide and inositol phosphate analysis in lymphocyte activation

Lymphocyte antigen receptor engagement profoundly changes the cellular content of phosphoinositide lipids and soluble inositol phosphates. Among these, the phosphoinositides phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) and phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP3) play key signaling roles by acting as pleckstrin homology (PH) domain ligands that recruit signaling proteins to the plasma membrane. Moreover, PIP2 acts as a precursor for the second messenger molecules diacylglycerol and soluble inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3), essential mediators of PKC, Ras/Erk, and Ca2+ signaling in lymphocytes. IP3 phosphorylation by IP3 3-kinases generates inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate (IP4), an essential soluble regulator of PH domain binding to PIP3 in developing T cells. Besides PIP2, PIP3, IP3, and IP4, lymphocytes produce multiple other phosphoinositides and soluble inositol phosphates that could have important physiological functions. To aid their analysis, detailed protocols that allow one to simultaneously measure the levels of multiple different phosphoinositide or inositol phosphate isomers in lymphocytes are provided here. They are based on thin layer, conventional and high-performance liquid chromatographic separation methods followed by radiolabeling or non-radioactive metal-dye detection. Finally, less broadly applicable non-chromatographic methods for detection of specific phosphoinositide or inositol phosphate isomers are discussed. Support protocols describe how to obtain pure unstimulated CD4+CD8+ thymocyte populations for analyses of inositol phosphate turnover during positive and negative selection, key steps in T cell development.

New therapeutic targets in immune disorders: ItpkB, Orai1 and UNC93B

BACKGROUND

Sequencing of the murine and human genomes has enabled large-scale functional genomics approaches to target identification. This holds the promise of drastically accelerating target discovery. Moreover, by providing an initial validation coincident with target identification, cell based cDNA or small interfering RNA (siRNA) screens and in particular genome-wide in vivo approaches, including forward or reverse genetics and analyses of natural gene polymorphisms, can move the relatively late step of target validation to the beginning of the process, reducing the risk of pursuing targets with little in vivo relevance.

OBJECTIVE

We critically discuss the value of combining functional genomics with traditional approaches for accelerating target identification and validation.

METHODS

We evaluate the potentials of inositol (1,4,5)trisphosphate 3-kinase B (ItpkB), Orai1 and UNC93B, three particularly interesting proteins that were recently identified through functional genomics, as targets in immune disorders.

RESULTS/CONCLUSION

Combining functional genomics with traditional approaches can accelerate target discovery and validation, but requires a follow-up platform that integrates and analyzes all relevant data for assessment of the clinical potential of the growing number of novel targets.

Correlation between cytosolic calcium concentration and degranulation in RBL-2H3 cells in the presence of various concentrations of antigen-specific IgEs

We studied the dependence of beta-hexosaminidase release from RBL-2H3 cells on the antigen-specific IgE concentrations. The cells were sensitized with DNP-specific IgE (0.5-5000 ng/ml) or OVA-specific IgE (5-50 ng/ml) and stimulated with DNP(35)-HSA (10(-2)-100 ng/ml) or OVA (10(-1) ng/ml-10 microg/ml). It was found that the beta-hexosaminidase release increased in a dose-dependent manner with the concentration of the IgEs and antigens added to the mast-cell suspension. We also studied the correlation between the intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)]i) and degranulation in RBL-2H3 cells. The percentage of beta-hexosaminidase release from the cells was well correlated with [Ca(2+)](i) increase, and the correlation coefficient was 0.88 for DNP-specific IgE and 0.99 for OVA-specific IgE. The minimum [Ca(2+)](i) required to induce the beta-hexosaminidase release was 100 nM for DNP-specific IgE, and 70 nM for OVA-specific IgE. Therefore, the [Ca(2+)](i) monitoring system is a sensitive marker of degranulation from RBL-2H3 cells and can be used to measure even low amounts of antigen-specific IgE.

Inhibitory effect of ginsenoside on the mediator release in the guinea pig lung mast cells activated by specific antigen-antibody reactions

We reported that some components of ginsenosides decreased mediator release which was evoked by the activation of mast cells caused by specific antigen-antibody reactions. This study aimed to assess the effects of ginsenoside, Rb1, which belongs to the protopanaxadiol, on the mechanism of mediator release during mast cell activation. Pretreatment of Rb1 (100 microg) significantly decreased histamine and leukotriene in a dose-dependent manner during mast cell activation. The PLD activity during mast cell activation decreased in the pretreatment of Rb1 (300 microg). The amount of DAG produced by PLC activity decreased because of Rb1 pretreatment. The amount of mass DAG decreased due to Rb1 pretreatment during mast cell activation. Rb1 (300 microg) pretreatment strongly inhibited the incorporation of the [3H]methyl moiety into phospholipids. The data suggest that Rb1, purified from Korean Red Ginseng Radix, inhibits an increase of DAG production during mast cell activation caused by antigen-antibody reactions, which is mediated via phosphatidylcholine-PLD and phosphatidylinositol-PLC systems. This is then followed by the inhibition of histamine releases. Furthermore, Rb1 reduces the phosphatidylcholine production by inhibiting the methyl-transferase I and II, and the reduction of phosphatidylcholine production inhibits leukotriene release.

Characterization of mastoparan-induced histamine release from RBL-2H3 cells

Mastoparan (5-30 microM), a tetradecapeptide isolated from wasp venom, caused histamine release from RBL-2H3 cells in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Mastoparan-induced histamine release remained after removing the extracellular Ca2+, whereas the antigen-induced one disappeared. Pertussis toxin did not inhibit mastoparan-induced histamine release from the cells, and mastoparan did not stimulate phosphoinositide hydrolysis. In agreement with the results, RBL-2H3 cells had a small amount of ADP-ribosylation substrates for pertussis toxin. Neomycin (1-5 mM) suppressed mastoparan-induced histamine release and phospholipase D activation. However, butanol slightly inhibited mastoparan-induced histamine release. Moreover, 2,3-diphosphoglycerate inhibited mastoparan-induced phospholipase D activation, but not it's histamine release. On the other hand, mastoparan caused the leakage of lactate dehydrogenase from the cells in a similar concentration range to the histamine release. This leakage was also suppressed by neomycin. These results suggest that mastoparan enhances the membrane permeability, resulting in histamine release in a pertussis toxin-insensitive manner, and that mastoparan-induced phospholipase D activation may not relate to histamine release.

The effects of ribavirin on the GTP level and the VIP receptor dynamic of human IGR39 cells

GTP is one of the major cellular molecules involved in fundamental functions of cell life. Ribavirin, and antiviral and antitumoral agent, the primary site of action of which is the IMP deshydrogenase, was used in order to depress the intracellular GTP level. Consequential effects were tested on the property and dynamic of the VIP receptor on human melanoma IGR 39 cells. A concentration of 100 microM of Ribavirin reduced the intracelluar GTP level by more than 60% and induced a reversible growth arrest. Nevertheless this drug displayed no effect on: i) the VIP binding parameters (Kd and Bmax) of both high and low affinity receptors; ii) the cycling of the VIP receptor; iii) the based and VIP-stimulated cAMP production and iv) the subcellular GTP distribution. We show that Ribavirin, in the range of concentrations used, is very efficient to inhibit GTP synthesis in the human melanoma cell line IGR 39 and its growth, without affecting VIP receptor functions.

Initial events in Fc epsilon RI signal transduction

Our current model of the events that occur in the first few seconds after Fc epsilon RI cross-linking focuses primarily on the role of tyrosine phosphorylation and its ability to direct specific protein-protein interactions through SH2 domains. Contact of a mast cell bearing appropriately liganded Fc epsilon RI with multivalent antigen results in the approximation of receptors initially into chains. The proximity of receptors in these chains allows the phosphorylation of their ARAMs by the lyn tyrosine kinase. ARAM phosphorylation results in binding of syk specifically to cross-linked receptors and its probable subsequent phosphorylation and activation by lyn. Activated syk then phosphorylates and activates PLC gamma 1 and PLC gamma 2, resulting in their activation and translocation to the membrane. The presence of active PLC gamma 1 and PLC gamma 2 on the cell membrane results in hydrolysis of membrane phosphatidyl inositol and the production of 1,4,5 inositol triphosphate. Inositol 1,4,5 triphosphate diffuses to the sarcoplasmic reticulum and causes the release of sequestered calcium. This model represents a snapshot of the current body of knowledge about Fc epsilon RI-mediated signal transduction. Given the rapid pace of research in this field, it will likely be incorrect or incomplete in at least some respects by the time of publication. Ideally, the information presented here should provide a framework on which to build for those interested in learning more about Fc epsilon RI in particular and multisubunit antigen receptors in general.

Differences in the regulation of phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C in normal and neoplastic keratinocytes

The induction of epidermal differentiation by Ca2+ in vitro is associated with enhanced activity of phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PLC). Neoplastic keratinocyte cell lines expressing a mutant c-Ha-ras gene and normal keratinocytes transformed to the neoplastic phenotype by transduction with the v-Ha-ras gene (v-Ha-ras keratinocytes) have elevated constitutive activity of PLC that increases further in response to Ca2+, but the cells do not differentiate normally. PLC-gamma 1 (145 kDa) is the major isoform detected by immunoblotting of extracts from control, v-Ha-ras, and neoplastic keratinocyte cell lines cultured in 0.05 mM Ca2+ medium. The amount of PLC-gamma 1 protein was higher in neoplastic cell lines than in normal and v-Ha-ras keratinocytes that had similar PLC-gamma 1 protein levels. Thus, higher PLC-gamma 1 protein levels cannot account for the elevated constitutive activity PLC in v-Ha-ras keratinocytes. After induction of differentiation by Ca2+, the amount of PLC-gamma 1 protein increased in all cell types, and PLC-delta 1 (85 kDa), barely detectable in 0.05 mM Ca2+, increased. PLC-beta 1 was not detected at any Ca2+ concentration. PLC-gamma 1 and PLC-delta 1 mRNA did not increase after elevation of extracellular Ca2+, suggesting that posttranscriptional mechanisms can regulate PLC-gamma 1 and PLC-delta 1 protein levels in normal and neoplastic keratinocytes. Activation of protein kinase C by treatment with 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) inhibited the stimulation of inositol phosphate (InsP) formation by Ca2+ but did not alter basal InsP levels in normal keratinocytes. In contrast, TPA treatment reduced both Ca(2+)-stimulated and basal InsP formation in neoplastic cells lines and v-Ha-ras keratinocytes. In both normal and v-Ha-ras keratinocytes labeled with [32P]orthophosphate, antibodies against PLC-gamma 1 immunoprecipitated a complex of 32P-labeled proteins. The relative labeling of the PLC-gamma 1 band was greater in normal than in v-Ha-ras keratinocytes. Furthermore, treatment with TPA specifically increased the relative phosphorylation of PLC-gamma 1 in v-Ha-ras keratinocytes but not in normal keratinocytes. These results suggest that the negative regulation of constitutive activity of PLC by protein kinase C differs in normal and neoplastic keratinocytes and that this could be the mechanism of increased PLC activity produced by an oncogenic ras gene in keratinocytes.

Effects of herbimycin A and ST638 on Fc epsilon receptor-mediated histamine release and Ca2+ signals in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) cells

We examined the effect of the two protein tyrosine kinase inhibitors, alpha-cyano-3-ethoxy-4-hydroxy-5-phenylthiomethylcinnamide (ST638) and herbimycin A, on the activation processes of rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) cells by cross-linking of IgE receptors. RBL-2H3 cells sensitized with DNP-specific monoclonal IgE antibody were stimulated with multivalent antigen (DNP conjugate of bovine serum albumin). Analysis of phosphotyrosine-containing proteins in their lysates by SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting revealed that these two inhibitors efficiently inhibited the tyrosine phosphorylation of several proteins (32, 42, 56, 66, 72, 92, 150 kDa) including phospholipase C-gamma 1. The inhibitors also caused parallel inhibitions of the histamine release, the formation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate, and the increase in cytosolic calcium ion concentration at the late sustained phase. A digital imaging fluorescence microscopic analysis of antigen-dependent calcium signals in individual cells showed that these two tyrosine kinase inhibitors inhibited the calcium influx from the external medium more powerfully than the mobilization of calcium ion from internal stores. In contrast, the inhibitors did not affect the increase in the cytosolic calcium ion concentration or the histamine release induced by the calcium ionophore A23187. Taken together, our results suggest that tyrosine phosphorylation following antigen stimulation regulates phosphatidylinositol hydrolysis and the influx of extracellular calcium.

Keratinocyte differentiation is associated with changes in the expression and regulation of phospholipase C isoenzymes

In murine keratinocytes, Ca(++)-induced terminal differentiation is accompanied by a rapid and sustained increase of inositol phosphates and diacylglycerol. Based on Western blotting analysis, basal keratinocytes cultured in 0.05 mM Ca++ medium express phospholipase C (PLC)-gamma 1 predominantly and no detectable PLC-beta 1. Differentiating keratinocytes cultured in 1.4 mM Ca++ express two- to threefold more PLC-gamma 1 protein and PLC-delta 1, but no detectable PLC-beta 1. Although the amount of PLC-gamma 1 and -delta 1 protein increased, PLC-gamma 1 and -delta 1 mRNA decreased in differentiating cells. Thus the sustained rise of PLC activity induced by Ca++ in differentiating keratinocytes may be associated with higher amounts of both PLC-gamma 1 and -delta 1 in maturing cells, determined by a posttranscriptional mechanism. Tyrosine phosphate content in PLC-gamma 1 was low in basal cells and did not change in cells exposed to 1.4 mM Ca++. However, genistein inhibited the increase in PLC activity induced by 1.4 mM Ca++. In contrast, transforming growth factor (TGF)alpha, which stimulates both PLC activity and growth in basal keratinocytes, increased tyrosine phosphorylation of PLC-gamma 1. These results suggest that tyrosine phosphorylation of PLC-gamma 1 by the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor is linked to stimulated proliferation, whereas stimulation of PLC activity by Ca++ is linked to keratinocyte differentiation and involves the action of a tyrosine kinase but not tyrosine phosphorylation of PLC-gamma 1. Based on studies using the intracellular free Ca++ chelator BAPTA, a rise in intracellular free Ca++ was not required for stimulation of PLC activity by raising extracellular Ca++. Phorbol esters inhibited PLC stimulation by 1.4 mM Ca++ medium and increased serine phosphorylation of PLC-gamma 1. Exogenous phosphatidylinositol-specific and phosphatidylcholine-specific bacterial PLC also inhibited endogenous inositol phosphate formation and increased endogenous diacylglycerol (DAG). Thus, direct serine phosphorylation of PLC-gamma 1 by protein kinase C is associated with the inhibition of Ca(++)-mediated PLC stimulation. These results show that keratinocytes have multiple mechanisms to regulate PLC activity in response to a specific signal.

Regulation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors in rat basophilic leukemia cells. I. Multiple conformational states of the receptor in a microsomal preparation

A detailed characterization of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL) cells, a neoplastic mast cell line, has been possible through the growth of solid RBL cell tumors which provide a rich source of IP3 receptor. Equilibrium binding studies show a 1.6 +/- 0.1 pmol/mg of protein maximal binding capacity for [3H]IP3 at optimal Ca2+ (10 microM). The specificity of the RBL cell IP3 receptor towards phosphoinositides, ATP and heparin parallels those previously described with excitable and nonexcitable tissues. [3H]IP3 binding is slightly enhanced from < 1 nM to 10 microM Ca2+ and inhibited by > 10 microM Ca2+. Kinetic and equilibrium studies provide evidence for at least two classes or conformational states of binding sites with pico- and nanomolar affinities. At nM concentrations of IP3, neither binding to the IP3 receptor nor IP3-induced Ca2+ efflux from permeabilized cells demonstrates cooperativity. In contrast, at pM concentrations, IP3 binding kinetics deviate from simple mass action suggesting a complex interaction among binding sites for IP3 on the receptor-channel oligomer. The mechanisms that regulate [3H]IP3 binding in RBL cells are unique when compared to what has been reported in other cells.

Regulation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors in rat basophilic leukemia cells. II. Modulation of the receptor in permeabilized cells by the cytosolic compartment

Engagement of the IP3 receptor by its ligand releases Ca2+ from intracellular stores of the rat basophilic leukemia (RBL) cell. The IP3 receptor in washed permeabilized cells has high affinity (Kd = 1.2 +/- 0.3 nM) for [3H]IP3 and is not sensitive to physiological concentrations of Ca2+. Moreover, washed permeabilized cells only release small amounts of Ca2+ when stimulated with IP3. When [3H]IP3 binding to permeabilized cells is performed in the presence of cytosolic constituents (unwashed cells), the IP3 receptor has a lower affinity for [3H]IP3 (Kd from 20 to 100 nM) and has enhanced Ca2+ release. Cytosolic supernatant, prepared by centrifugation of permeabilized cells and added back to washed permeabilized cells, decreases [3H]IP3 binding in a dose-dependent manner and increases the amount of Ca2+ released by IP3. Depletion of either MgATP or IP3 in the cytosolic supernatant does not affect the supernatant's ability to decrease [3H]IP3 binding. Though MgATP competitively inhibits [3H]IP3 binding, it cannot fully account for the shift in Kd or the modulation of IP3-stimulated Ca2+ release in the presence of cytosol. These findings suggest that components present in the cytosolic supernatant modulate the function of the IP3 receptor by maintaining it in a low affinity state capable of promoting Ca2+ release.

Effects of inhibitors of arachidonic acid metabolism on serotonin release from rat basophilic leukemia cells

Mast cells can release arachidonic acid (AA) metabolites as well as preformed mediators with IgE mediated stimulation, and these mediators are considered to play an important role in allergic reactions. The coincident release of preformed mediators and AA metabolites suggests that AA metabolism is related to mast cell degranulation. To clarify the relationship between mast cell degranulation and AA metabolism, the effects of various A cascade inhibitors on rat basophilic leukemia cell (RBL) mediator release induced by either anti-IgE or A23187 were examined. 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraynoic acid (ETYA) inhibited both PGD2 and LTC4/D4 generation, and partially inhibited serotonin release. Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) caused complete inhibition of LTC4/D4 generation, and partial inhibition of PGD2 generation and serotonin release. The cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin, and the specific 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor, L-651,392 completely inhibited PGD2 and LTC4/D4 generation, respectively, without affecting release of other mediators. Both PGD2 and LTC4/D4 generation were abolished by the combination of indomethacin and L-651,392, however, serotonin release remained intact. HPLC analysis showed that no shift to other AA metabolites occurred after the treatment with these inhibitors. Mepacrine, a phospholipase A2 inhibitor, completely inhibited PGD2 and LTC4/D4 generation, as well as AA release itself, without affecting serotonin release. Therefore, neither AA metabolism nor AA release is necessary for RBL degranulation.

Ultraviolet light irradiation increases cellular diacylglycerol and induces translocation of diacylglycerol kinase in murine keratinocytes

Cellular lipid metabolism can provide a variety of mediators of signal transduction, including diacylglycerols and inositol phosphates. These factors may be involved in the control of epidermal differentiation and proliferation because they are modulated by extracellular calcium, which also regulates the maturation phenotype of cultured keratinocytes. The effect of non-cytotoxic exposures to ultraviolet light on lipid metabolism was studied in cultured murine keratinocytes. Ultraviolet treatment of cultured murine keratinocytes growing in 0.05 mM Ca++ did not significantly change the total amount of [3H]inositol phosphates at 0.5, 8 or 24 h post-irradiation. Irradiated cells responded to an increase from 0.05 mM Ca++ to 1.4 mM Ca++ medium with increased formation of inositol phosphates suggesting irradiation did not alter the normal inositol lipid turnover in response to the Ca++ signal for terminal differentiation. Irradiation (20-120 J/m2 of UVB) induced a dose-dependent increase in the cellular level of diacylglycerols as measured at 24 h post-irradiation, without changing the turnover of other phospholipids including phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine. The increased cellular levels of diacylglycerols following ultraviolet exposure were accompanied by changes in the activity of diacylglycerol kinase (DAG-kinase). The cytosolic DAG-kinase activity was decreased whereas the DAG-kinase activity in the membrane fraction was increased. These results suggest that ultraviolet irradiation increases the level of diacylglycerols via changes in de novo metabolism through a DAG-kinase pathway. Elevated diacylglycerol may influence signal-transduction pathways mediated by cellular lipids and contribute to some keratinocyte responses to ultraviolet light.

The role of calcium and protein kinase C in the IgE-dependent activation of phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase D in a rat mast (RBL 2H3) cell line

Our previous studies have suggested that phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase D (PtdCho-PLD) plays a role in IgE-dependent diacylglycerol production, protein kinase C activation and mediator release in the RBL 2H3 mast cell line. We have extended these studies to examine the mechanisms by which PtdCho-PLD may be regulated in these cells. RBL 2H3 cellular lipids were labeled with [14C]arachidonic acid or [3H]myristic acid, then PtdCho-PLD activity was monitored by the formation of radiolabeled phosphatidylethanol when ethanol was included in the incubation medium. Trinitrophenol-ovalbumin conjugate (10 ng/ml), when added to cells previously sensitized with anti-(trinitrophenelated mouse IgE) (0.5 microgram/ml), ionomycin (1 microM) and thapsigargin (0.1 microM), stimulated PtdCho-PLD activation and mediator release in cells incubated in buffer containing 1.8 mM calcium, but not in cells incubated in calcium-free, buffer. Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (0.1 microM) activated PtdCho-PLD in both buffers, but on its own did not trigger mediator release. When intracellular calcium was chelated with 5,5'-dimethyl-1,2-bis(2- aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid, trinitrophenol-ovalbumin conjugate failed to activate PtdCho-PLD and histamine release. Similarly, down-regulation of protein kinase C activity by long-term exposure to the phorbol ester (0.1 microM) and preincubation of the cells with protein kinase inhibitors resulted in the loss of the trinitrophenol-ovalbumin response on PtdCho-PLD activity and histamine release. Taken together, the above results suggest that IgE-dependent PtdCho-PLD activation is dependent on both activation of protein kinase C and a rise in the intracellular free calcium concentration.

Effect of NCDC, a protease inhibitor, on histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells induced by anti-IgE

NCDC dose-dependently inhibited histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells induced by anti-IgE. Moreover, NCDC inhibited Ca(2+)-mobilization from intracellular Ca(2+)-stores as well as histamine release in mast cells activated by anti IgE, the effect on both of these phenomena being closely correlated. Anti-IgE induced a rapid increase in IP3 production from phosphoinositides in mast cells, with its production in 15 sec, followed to baseline levels within 1 min. Anti-IgE stimulated PLC activity on mast cells membrane preparation. NCDC dose-dependently inhibited the generation of IP3. These results suggest that the inhibitory effect of NCDC on the release of histamine induced by anti-IgE is due to, in part at least, the inhibition of PI-specific PLC and that the inhibitory effects of NCDC are involved in intracellular calcium store.

Characterization of glucocorticoid inhibition of antigen-induced inositolphosphate formation by rat basophilic leukemia cells: possible involvement of phosphatases

The suppressive effect of glucocorticoids (GC) upon antigen-induced phosphatidylinositol phospholipase C (PI-PLC) activity and inositol phosphate formation by rat basophilic leukemia cells (RBL-2H3) has been characterized. Addition of antigen for a period of 1-30 min enhanced production of [3H]inositol monophosphate (IP1), inositol 1,4-bisphosphate (IP2) and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) by about 5-10-fold. Pretreatment with hydrocortisone (HC) reduced formation of the various inositol phosphates (IPs) and degradation of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) by an average of 50%. Maximal inhibition of hydrolysis of PIP2 and reduction in stimulation of IP3 formation was reached after 4 h of preincubation with 2.10(-6) M of HC. Cycloheximide and RU486, a GC receptor antagonist, completely prevented the inhibitory effect of HC on IP formation. Other GC, dexamethasone (DEX) and triamcinolone (each at 2.10(-7) M) markedly suppressed antigen induced IP3 production, while aldosterone and sex steroids such as estradiol and progesterone (each at 2.10(-6) M) were virtually inactive. Antigen-stimulated phosphorylation of a 18 kDa and other proteins was inhibited by about 60% following pretreatment with the GC. This inhibition was in turn prevented by cycloheximide. DEX also doubled the activity of cellular acid phosphatase activity. The results suggest that the inhibitory effect of GC is specific, receptor-mediated, dependent on protein synthesis and possibly mediated by protein phosphatase activity.

Phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of the high-affinity receptor for immunoglobulin E immediately after receptor engagement and disengagement

Triggering of mast cells and basophils by immunoglobulin E (IgE) and antigen induces various biochemical signals, including tyrosine kinase activation, which lead to cell degranulation and the release of mediators of the allergic reaction. The high-affinity receptor for IgE (Fc epsilon RI) responsible for initiating these events is a complex structure composed of an IgE-binding alpha-chain, a beta-chain and a homodimer of gamma-chains. It has been assumed that beta and gamma, which have extensive cytoplasmic domains, play an important but undefined role in coupling Fc epsilon RI to signal transduction mechanisms. Here we show that Fc epsilon RI engagement induces immediate in vivo phosphorylation on beta (tyrosine and serine) and gamma (tyrosine and threonine) by at least two different non-receptor kinases. We take advantage of unique features of this receptor system to demonstrate that the phosphorylation signal is restricted to activated receptors and is immediately reversible upon receptor disengagement by undefined phosphatases. Rapid phosphorylation and dephosphorylation may be a general mechanism to couple and uncouple activated receptors to other effector molecules. This could be particularly relevant to other multimeric receptors containing Fc epsilon RI gamma-chains or the related zeta and eta chains such as the T-cell antigen receptor (TCR) and the low-affinity receptor for immunoglobulin G (Fc gamma RIII, CD16).

Differential effects of propranolol on the IgE-dependent, or calcium ionophore-stimulated, phosphoinositide hydrolysis and calcium mobilization in a mast (RBL 2H3) cell line

Our previous studies demonstrated that propranolol, an inhibitor of phosphatidic acid phosphohydrolase (PAPase) (EC 3.1.3.4) blocks the IgE-dependent mediator release from a rat mast (RBL 2H3) cell line. To continue these studies, we examined the ability of propranolol to inhibit the IgE-dependent or ionomycin-mediated phosphoinositide hydrolysis and calcium mobilization in RBL 2H3 cells. RBL 2H3 cells, sensitized with mouse monoclonal anti-trinitrophenol IgE (anti-TNP IgE), were stimulated to release both histamine and peptidoleukotrienes (LT) in response to a suboptimal concentration of trinitrophenol-ovalbumin conjugate (TNP-OVA) or ionomycin. Preincubation of the cells with d,l-propranolol (300 microM) significantly (P less than 0.05) inhibited the effects of both TNP-OVA and ionomycin on histamine and LT release. There was no difference in potency for the different isomers of propranolol, indicating that these effects were not a consequence of an effect on beta 2-adrenergic receptors. TNP-OVA produced a rapid hydrolysis of phosphoinositides resulting in a time-dependent increase in mono- (IP1), di- (IP2), tri- (IP3), and total inositol phosphate production. Ionomycin also produced a rapid increase in total inositol phosphate production; however, this largely reflected an accumulation of IP1. Both secretagogues produced a rapid elevation in cytosolic free calcium ([Ca2+]i); however, the effect of ionomycin maximized within a much shorter time frame than the effect of TNP-OVA. The effects of TNP-OVA on phosphoinositide hydrolysis and increase in [Ca2+]i were inhibited by propranolol over exactly the same concentration range as the effects of this compound on TNP-OVA-stimulated mediator release. In contrast, propranolol had no effect on the increase in [Ca2+]i and phosphoinositide hydrolysis in response to ionomycin. Taken together, these results suggest that PAPase/phospholipase D (PLD) (EC 3.1.4.4) activation may be a prerequisite for both IgE-dependent and ionomycin-stimulated mediator release from RBL 2H3 cells. Although other explanations are possible, the data further suggest that receptor-mediated, but not ionophore-stimulated, phosphoinositide hydrolysis and [Ca2+]i in RBL 2H3 cells may be regulated by a propranolol-sensitive pathway involving possible activation of PAPase.

Antigen-induced biphasic diacylglycerol formation in RBL-2H3 cells: the late sustained phase due to phosphatidylcholine hydrolysis is dependent on protein kinase C

Exposure to antigen (Ag) caused a biphasic 1,2-diacylglycerol (DG) production in [3H]myristic acid-labeled RBL-2H3 cells; the early, small transient phase and the second large sustained phase. The accumulation of phosphatidic acid (PA) or phosphatidylethanol (PEt) in the presence of ethanol was paralleled by the second-phase DG generation. Ag-induced formation of phosphocholine and choline in [3H]choline-labeled cells suggested the hydrolysis of phosphatidylcholine (PC) by phospholipases C and D. Treatment with phorbol myristate (PMA) or A23187 caused increases in [3H]DG and water-soluble [3H]choline metabolites. In protein kinase C (PKC) down-regulated cells, PEt formation was markedly reduced. In these cells DG production induced by Ag and A23187 was largely suppressed, thus indicating that PKC would play an important regulatory role for PC hydrolysis. However, because the A23187 treatment showed significant accumulation of water-soluble choline metabolites in PKC down-regulated cells, an increase in intracellular Ca2+ is another factor regulating PC hydrolysis. Taken together, these results may indicate that PC hydrolysis in response to Ag is dependent on PKC and Ca2+.

Simultaneous determination of intracellular calcium concentration and histamine secretion in rat basophilic leukemia cells (RBL-2H3)

In rat basophilic leukemia cells (RBL-2H3), a tumor analogue of mast cells, the aggregation of IgE receptors initiates increase in the intracellular concentration of calcium ([Ca2+]i), monitored with the fluorescent Ca probe fura-2, and finally results in histamine secretion. In cell suspensions, however, the fluorescence gradually increases due to leakage and exocytosis of the dye. A superfusion system was developed to overcome these problems and [Ca2+]i was calculated from the ratio of fluorescence intensities at 505 nm of fura-2 excited at 340 and 380 nm. Histamine and beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase in granules are released during exocytosis, and both substances in the superfusates were determined simultaneously. This system is useful for studies on the relationships of cell stimulation, changes in second messengers, and final responses.

Calcium signal and histamine secretion induced by aggregation of immunoglobulin E receptors in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) cells

The changes in cytosolic Ca concentration in rat basophilic leukemia cells (RBL-2H3) were determined using a fluorescent Ca probe, fura-2, after aggregation of IgE receptors. By means of a superfusion system, both histamine secretion and changes in cytosolic Ca concentration were determined simultaneously. In addition, the microscopic observation revealed the oscillatory Ca signal after stimulation with an antigen.

Microfilaments regulate the rate of exocytosis in rat basophilic leukemia cells

Disruption of microfilaments in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL) cells by exposure to cytochalasin B is observed to potentiate the rate of antigen-stimulated secretion from these cells. Under these conditions, cytochalasin B is without effect on the antigen-stimulated production of inositol phosphates or 45Ca2(+)-influx. In streptolysin-O-permeabilized RBL cells, cytochalasin B is observed to potentiate the rate of secretion in response both to guanosine 5'-(2-thio)-O-triphosphate (GTP gamma S) and to Ca2+ (buffered between 0.1 and 10 microM). However, under these conditions, cytochalasin B does not affect to antigen-stimulated production of inositol phosphates. Consistent with these data, microfilaments are proposed to regulate a terminal step in exocytosis, in a physiologically relevant manner.

The effects of the protein kinase C inhibitors staurosporine and H7 on the IgE dependent mediator release from RBL 2H3 cells

RBL 2H3 cells, a model for mast cell function, sensitized with rat IgE, released histamine and peptidoleukotrienes (LT) in response to rabbit anti-rat IgE in a concentration-dependent manner. The calcium ionophore, A23187 also stimulated the release of both mediators but to a greater extent. The protein kinase C activator, 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13-acetate (TPA) failed to influence mediator release when added alone, but when added with either A23187 or anti-IgE, TPA significantly enhanced the release of both histamine and LT. The effects of anti-IgE, TPA and A23187 were completely inhibited by prior addition of the protein kinase C inhibitors staurosporine and 1-(5-isoquinolinesulfonyl)-2-methylpiperazine dihydrochloride (H7) but not by N-(2-guanidinoethyl)-5-isoquinoline-sulfonamide dihydrochloride (HA1004), a compound which has similar potency to H7 as an inhibitor of some protein kinases but is less potent as a protein kinase C inhibitor. Although other explanations are possible, these results support the hypothesis that the release of histamine and leukotrienes from RBL 2H3 cells resulting from the cross bridging of the IgE receptors, is dependent on activation of protein kinase C.

Characterization of a new type of variant of rat basophilic leukemia 2H3 cells presenting a different pattern of calcium signal

We selected a new type of variant (designated 3C7) derived spontaneously from parental RBL-2H3 cells. 3C7 cells showed lower contact inhibition, anchorage dependency, and serotonin release activity than those of RBL-2H3 cells. We conclude that 3C7 cells are a transformant of RBL-2H3 cell with greater malignancy. The production of inositol bisphosphate and the release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores induced by IgE-antigen stimulation were enhanced in 3C7. Oscillation of [Ca2+]i in individual 3C7 cells was observed by a digital imaging microscopic technique. We propose that 3C7 cells are a useful model system for studies on the mechanisms of stimulus-secretion coupling and the relationships between malignant alterations and disorders of signal transduction.

Different patterns of agonist-stimulated increases of 3H-inositol phosphate isomers and cytosolic Ca2+ in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells: comparison of the effects of histamine and angiotensin II

Bovine adrenal chromaffin cells (BCC) were used to compare histamine- and angiotensin II-induced changes of inositol mono-, bis-, and trisphosphate (InsP1, InsP2, and InsP3, respectively) isomers, intracellular free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i), and the pathways of inositol phosphate metabolism. Both agonists elevated [Ca2+]i by 200 nM 3-4 s after addition, but afterwards the histamine response was much more prolonged. Histamine and angiotensin II also produced similar four- to fivefold increases of Ins(1,4,5)P3 that peaked within 5 s. Over the first minute of stimulation, however, Ins(1,4,5)P3 formation was monophasic after angiotensin II, but biphasic after histamine, evidence supporting differential regulation of angiotensin II- and histamine-stimulated signal transduction. The metabolism of Ins(1,4,5)P3 by BCC homogenates was found to proceed via (a) sequential dephosphorylation to Ins(1,4)P2 and Ins(4)P, and (b) phosphorylation to inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate, followed by dephosphorylation to Ins(1,3,4)P3, Ins(1,3)P2, and Ins(3,4)P2, and finally to Ins(1 or 3)P. In whole cells, Ins(1 or 3)P only increased after histamine treatment. Additionally, Ins(1,3)P2 was the only other InsP2 besides Ins(1,4)P2 to accumulate within 1 min of agonist treatment [Ins(3,4)P2 did not increase]. These results support a correlation between the time course of Ins(1,4,5)P3 formation and the time course of [Ca2+]i transients and illustrate that Ca2(+)-mobilizing agonists can produce distinguishable patterns of inositol phosphate formation and [Ca2+]i changes in BCC. Different patterns of second-messenger formation are likely to be important in signal recognition and may encode agonist-specific information.

Ro 19-3704 directly inhibits immunoglobulin E-dependent mediator release by a mechanism independent of its platelet-activating factor antagonist properties

Rat basophilic leukemia (RBL 2H3) cells were passively sensitized by exposure to monoclonal anti-trinitrophenol mouse immunoglobulin E (anti-trinitrophenol IgE) (0.5 microgram/ml) and triggered by exposure to a sub-optimal concentration of trinitrophenol ovalbumin conjugate (5 ng/ml). At this concentration, trinitrophenol-ovalbumin increased histamine release from a basal rate of 4.8 +/- 0.5 to 28.5 +/- 4.6% and peptidoleukotrienes from less than 0.1 to 4.2 +/- 1.3 ng/10(6) cells in the activated cells. Ro 19-3704 and Ro 19-1400, platelet activating factor (PAF) antagonists which are structural analogs of PAF, potently inhibited both the IgE-dependent release of histamine (IC50 values of 3.0 and 3.6 microM, respectively) and LT release (IC50 values of 5.0 microM for both compounds) from the cells. These effects appeared to be independent to the ability of the compounds to act as PAF antagonists since PAF on its own had no effect on mediator release, and WEB 2086 and BN 52021, structurally distinct PAF antagonists, were relatively ineffective as inhibitors of mediator release. Ro 19-3704 and Ro 19-1400 were observed to be potent inhibitors of the soluble phospholipase A2 activity in synovial fluid from rheumatoid arthritic patients (IC50 values of 6.5 and 8.4 microM, respectively). In contrast, WEB 2086 and BN 52021 had no effect on this phospholipase A2. Ro 19-3704 significantly inhibited the IgE-dependent formation of inositol phosphates in RBL 2H3 cells (IC50 value of 7.0 microM). These data suggest that the mediator release inhibitory action of these compounds may be related to the ability of these compounds to inhibit phospholipase A2 and/or phospholipase C.

Formation of inositol pentakisphosphate by ovarian follicles of Xenopus laevis from metabolism of inositol (1,4,5)trisphosphate and inositol (1,3,4,5)tetrakisphosphate and from receptor activation

Small amounts of a higher inositol phosphate with chromatographic properties of [3H]inositol (1,3,4,5,6)pentakisphosphate were formed from [3H]inositol (1,4,5)trisphosphate added to homogenates of ovarian follicles of Xenopus laevis, and from [3H]inositol (1,3,4,5)tetrakisphosphate after injection into follicular oocytes. Other intermediate forms of inositol tetrakisphosphate were not detectable. [3H]inositol (1,3,4,5,6)pentakisphosphate prepared from chicken erythrocytes was metabolized in homogenates to an inositol tetrakisphosphate eluting later than the (1,3,4,5) isomer. Activation of receptors in ovarian follicles of Xenopus laevis with acetylcholine or stimulation with injected GTP gamma S caused formation not only of inositol trisphosphate and its expected metabolites but also of small amounts of inositol pentakisphosphate. These results suggest that the latter may be formed from metabolites of inositol (1,4,5)trisphosphate in this tissue during receptor activation.

Methods for the analysis of inositol phosphates

Interest in the inositol phospholipids was stimulated by the simultaneous discoveries that the products of hydrolysis of these lipids could serve as messengers to activate to synergistic signaling pathways in hormonally responsive cells, namely, inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate which causes the release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores and diacylglycerol which promotes the activation of protein kinase C. At the same time, Berridge and co-workers introduced relatively simple approaches to study the inositol phospholipid cycle. These included the use of [3H]inositol to label the inositol metabolites, all of which are confined to this cycle, and of Li+ to decrease the rate of degradation of the inositol phosphates. Water-soluble inositol phosphates and chloroform-soluble inositol phospholipids could then be separated by solvent partition and the inositol phosphates further separated by use of an anion-exchange resin. However, the subsequent application of high-performance liquid chromatography as a separation technique indicated the existence of many isomers of the inositol phosphates formed by different pathways of dephosphorylation and phosphorylation. Mapping of these metabolic pathways may be substantially complete, but novel pathways may still be discovered. We review both old and new methods of analysis of the inositol phosphates for the measurement of mass and radioactivity. Although the complexity of the cycle sometimes demands the use of sophisticated methods of separation and rigorous identification, older and inexpensive methods may still be useful for some purposes.

Defective signal transduction in CD4-CD8- T cells of lpr mice

Mice homozygous for the lpr gene develop a lymphoproliferative disorder due to expansion of a subset of CD4-CD8- T cells. Triggering of the T-cell receptor in these lpr T cells does not lead to translocation of protein kinase C or phosphorylation of CD3, interleukin-2 production, or proliferation, whereas a combination of phorbol ester and calcium ionophore does. Stimulation with concanavalin A or anti-CD3 induces phosphoinositide hydrolysis. The rise in inositol bisphosphate, inositol triphosphate, and inositol tetrakisphosphate, identified by HPLC, is similar in +/+ and lpr T cells. The concentration of cytoplasmic free calcium ([Ca2+]i), however, under basal and stimulated conditions is significantly lower in lpr T cells. The lower basal [Ca2+]i may explain why induction of proliferation with phorbol ester and calcium ionophore requires a higher concentration of ionophore in these cells than in normal T cells. The lower [Ca2+]i obtained on stimulation may contribute to the activation defect of CD4-CD8- lpr T cells.

Inhibition of inositol phospholipid hydrolysis in endothelial cells by pentobarbital

Barbiturates alter cardiovascular function, in part by an effect on vascular cells. However, a biochemical mechanism for the effect is unknown. We have, therefore, studied the effect of barbiturates on inositol phospholipid hydrolysis in cultured rat aortic endothelial cells. Hydrolysis was stimulated by angiotensin II, norepinephrine and phenylephrine. Pentobarbital, and other barbiturates, inhibited hydrolysis at pharmacological and clinical concentrations (0.1-0.5 mM). The inhibition by pentobarbital was concentration-dependent, reversed by washing, and was decreased by high concentrations of angiotensin II. Kinetic studies gave an apparent Km of hydrolysis by angiotensin II of 1.2 nM, which showed mixed inhibition by pentobarbital (Ki = 0.45 mM). Schild analysis of data obtained from pentobarbital inhibition curves also showed a deviation from a competitive type inhibition. [125I]Angiotensin II was bound to a high-affinity receptor (Kd = 1.2 nM), which showed a competitive type inhibition of binding by pentobarbital (0.5 mM). Although inhibition of [125I]angiotensin II binding appeared to be competitively inhibited by pentobarbital, the data, taken together, point to a deviation from a simple competitive type inhibition.

Production of the haemopoietic growth factors GM-CSF and interleukin-3 by mast cells in response to IgE receptor-mediated activation

Mast cells have a central role in allergic diseases mediated by specific immunoglobulin E antibody responses to allergens. The binding of IgE to the high-affinity receptor for IgE (Fc epsilon R) on mast cells and basophils enables these cells to react specifically to allergens. Such contact leads to the activation of mast cells and the release of histamine and other pharmacological mediators, causing an immediate hypersensitivity and acute inflammatory reactions, accompanied by the development of allergic symptoms. Here we show that Fc epsilon R-mediated activation of murine mast cells results in the production of the haemopoietic growth factors granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and interleukin-3 (IL-3). IL-3 and GM-CSF, in addition to their role in bone marrow haemopoiesis, also influence inflammation as they have the capacity to recruit, prime and activate inflammatory cells such as neutrophils, macrophages and eosinophils. Secretion of these factors by mast cells in response to allergens may therefore have an important role in local tissue defense.

Receptor-mediated release of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and inositol 1,4-bisphosphate in rat basophilic leukemia RBL-2H3 cells permeabilized with streptolysin O

Antigen-mediated exocytosis in intact rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) cells is associated with substantial hydrolysis of membrane inositol phospholipids and an elevation in concentration of cytosol Ca2+ ([ Ca2+i]). Paradoxically, these two responses are largely dependent on external Ca2+. We report here that cells labeled with myo-[3H]inositol and permeabilized with streptolysin O do release [3H]inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate upon stimulation with antigen or guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) (GTP gamma S) at low (less than 100 nM) concentrations of free Ca2+. The response, however, is amplified by increasing free Ca2+ to 1 microM. The subsequent conversion of the trisphosphate to inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate is enhanced also by the increase in free Ca2+. Although [3H]inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate accumulates in greater amounts than is the case in intact cells, [3H]inositol 1,4-bisphosphate is still the major product in permeabilized cells even when the further metabolism of [3H]inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate is suppressed (by 77%) by the addition of excess (1000 microM) unlabeled inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and the phosphatase inhibitor 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate. It would appear that either the activity of the membrane 5-phosphomonoesterase allows virtually instantaneous dephosphorylation of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate under all conditions tested or both phosphatidylinositol 4-monophosphate and the 4,5-bisphosphate are substrates for the activated phospholipase C. The latter alternative is supported by the finding that permeabilized cells, which respond much more vigorously to high (supraoptimal) concentrations of antigen than do intact RBL-2H3 cells, produce substantial amounts of [3H]inositol 1,4-bisphosphate before any detectable increase in levels of [3H]inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate.

Pathophysiology of human basophils and mast cells in allergic disorders

Basophil leukocytes and tissue mast cells are inflammatory cells that are found in virtually all human tissues. They appear to be involved in the pathogenesis of such allergic diseases as allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma, anaphylaxis, atopic and contact dermatitis, chronic urticaria, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. By releasing a variety of chemical mediators, they could also play a role in the pathophysiology of a wide range of inflammatory disorders of the joints, and of intestine, lung, coronary, and myocardial diseases. Although these two cell types are similar in several aspects, striking differences have also been observed. Moreover, human mast cells from different anatomical sites and within an individual tissue synthesize different mediators and have different release mechanisms. The recent advent of techniques that yield highly purified basophils and mast cells from diverse tissues will probably lead to major advancements in understanding the biochemical and pharmacological mechanisms that control the release process of these cells. The release of mediators from these cells is also controlled by a series of largely undefined biochemical steps that represent the basis of the concept of basophil and mast cell releasability. Alterations of basophil or mast cell releasability have already been detected in patients with allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma, atopic dermatitis, and chronic urticaria. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that basophils, mast cells, and their chemical mediators play a pivotal role in several inflammatory disorders.

Induction of human basophil histamine release by a novel protein kinase C activator, sn-1,2-isopropylidene-3-decanoyl-glycerol (IpOCOC9): partial characterization of secretagogue characteristics

Human leukocytes were found to release histamine at exposure for the synthetic glyceride derivative sn-1,2-isopropylidene-3-decanoyl-glycerol (IpOCOC9). The following characteristics for the IpOCOC9-induced basophil histamine release were recorded. A. In the order of 25% of the cellular histamine content was extruded at 206 mumol/l and 45% at 690 mumol/l of the compound, respectively. B. Removal of extracellular Ca2+ variably affected IpOCOC9-triggered release. C. The presence of N-ethylmaleimide (10 mumol/l) or p-bromophenacylbromide (10 mumol/l) markedly reduced IpOCOC9-induced histamine release. D. The time course of the release triggered by IpOCOC9 was intermediate to those characterizing the release triggered by 4 beta-phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and by formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (FMLP). E. Cells desensitized to IgE-receptor-mediated stimulation were hyperresponsive to stimulation with IpOCOC9. F. Cells treated with a low concentration of 2-deoxyglucose were not hyperresponsive to IpOCOC9. These data show that IpOCOC9, a PMN/leukocyte protein kinase C stimulator, acts as a non-cytotoxic secretagogue for human basophils with a mode of action which in some, but not all respects, mimics that of PMA. In particular, IpOCOC9-triggered release resembles that reported by other authors for hyperosmolar triggering of release by mannitol.

Cardiotoxin from cobra venom increases the level of phosphatidylinositol 4-monophosphate and phosphatidylinositol kinase activity in two cell lines

In rat basophilic leukemia-2H3 (RBL-2H3) and Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, cardiotoxin from cobra venom induced a marked decrease in the level of [3H] phosphatidylinositol and a corresponding increase in the level of [3H]phosphatidylinositol 4-monophosphate over the course of 20 min as demonstrated in cells that had been labeled to equilibrium with [3H]inositol. The effect was dependent on the concentration (5-30 micrograms/ml) of the toxin. In plasma membrane-enriched fractions isolated from the two cell lines, the cardiotoxin enhanced the endogenous activity of phosphatidylinositol kinase especially at temperatures above 14 degrees C. In RBL-2H3 cells, cardiotoxin also induced release of substantial amounts of histamine and lactate dehydrogenase. The release of histamine, but not of lactate dehydrogenase, was totally dependent on external calcium and this release probably represented an exocytotic response of the cells to cardiotoxin. Although, initially, treatment with the toxin did not impair antigen-induced hydrolysis of inositol phospholipids or prevent the antigen-induced rise in the concentration of cytosol Ca2+, prolonged exposure to the toxin did result in a progressive loss of responsiveness of RBL-2H3 cells to antigen.

Highly cooperative opening of calcium channels by inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate

The kinetics of calcium release by inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) in permeabilized rat basophilic leukemia cells were studied to obtain insight into the molecular mechanism of action of this intracellular messenger of the phosphoinositide cascade. Calcium release from intracellular storage sites was monitored with fura-2, a fluorescent indicator. The dependence of the rate of calcium release on the concentration of added IP3 in the 4 to 40 nM range showed that channel opening requires the binding of at least three molecules of IP3. Channel opening occurred in the absence of added adenosine triphosphate, indicating that IP3 acts directly on the channel or on a protein that gates it. The channels were opened by IP3 in less than 4 seconds. The highly cooperative opening of calcium channels by nanomolar concentrations of IP3 enables cells to detect and amplify very small changes in the concentration of this messenger in response to hormonal, sensory, and growth control stimuli.