Calcium influx in a rat mast cell (RBL-2H3) line. Use of multivalent metal ions to define its characteristics and role in exocytosis

Immunomodulatory zinc-based materials for tissue regeneration

Zinc(Zn)-based materials have contributed greatly to the rapid advancements in tissue engineering. The qualities they possess that make them so beneficial include their excellent biodegradability, biocompatibility, anti-bacterial activity, among and several others. Biomedical materials that act as a foreign body, will inevitably cause host immune response when introduced to the human body. As the osteoimmunology develops, the immunomodulatory characteristics of biomaterials have become an appealing concept to improve implant-tissue interaction and tissue restoration. Recently, Zn-based materials have also displayed immunomodulatory functions, especially macrophage polarization states. It can promote the transformation of M1 macrophages into M2 macrophages to enhance the tissue regeneration and reconstruction. This review covers mainly Zn-based materials and their characteristics, including metallic Zn alloys and Zn ceramics. We highlight the current advancements in the type of immune responses, as well as the mechanisms, that are induced by Zn-based biomaterials, most importantly the regulation of innate immunity and the mechanism of promoting tissue regeneration. To this end, we discuss their applications in biomedicine, and conclude with an outlook on future research challenges.

MRGPRX2-Mediated Degranulation of Human Skin Mast Cells Requires the Operation of Gαi, Gαq, Ca++ Channels, ERK1/2 and PI3K—Interconnection between Early and Late Signaling

The recent discovery of MRGPRX2 explains mast cell (MC)-dependent symptoms independently of FcεRI-activation. Because of its novelty, signaling cascades triggered by MRGPRX2 are rudimentarily understood, especially in cutaneous MCs, by which MRGPRX2 is chiefly expressed. Here, MCs purified from human skin were used following preculture or ex vivo and stimulated by FcεRI-aggregation or MRGPRX2 agonists (compound 48/80, Substance P) in the presence/absence of inhibitors. Degranulation was assessed by β-hexosaminidase or histamine release. Phosphorylation events were studied by immunoblotting. As a G protein-coupled receptor, MRGPRX2 signals by activating G proteins; however, their nature has remained controversial. In skin MCs, G_αi and G_αq were required for degranulation, but G_αi was clearly more relevant. Ca++ channels were likewise crucial. Downstream, PI3K was essential for granule discharge initiated by MRGPRX2 or FcεRI. ERK1/2 and JNK were additional participants, especially in the allergic route. Addressing possible points of intersection between early and later events, pERK1/2 and pAKT were found to depend on G_αi, further highlighting its significance. G_αq and Ca++ channels made some contributions to the phosphorylation of ERK. Ca++ differentially affected PI3K activation in FcεRI- vis-à-vis MRGPRX2-signaling, as channel inhibition increased pAKT only when triggered via FcεRI. Collectively, our study significantly extends our understanding of the molecular framework behind granule secretion from skin MCs.

Pyruvate dehydrogenase has a major role in mast cell function, and its activity is regulated by mitochondrial microphthalmia transcription factor

BACKGROUND

We have recently observed that oxidative phosphorylation-mediated ATP production is essential for mast cell function. Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) is the main regulator of the Krebs cycle and is located upstream of the electron transport chain. However, the role of PDH in mast cell function has not been described. Microphthalmia transcription factor (MITF) regulates the development, number, and function of mast cells. Localization of MITF to the mitochondria and its interaction with mitochondrial proteins has not been explored.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to explore the role played by PDH in mast cell exocytosis and to determine whether MITF is localized in the mitochondria and involved in regulation of PDH activity.

METHODS

Experiments were performed in vitro by using human and mouse mast cells, as well as rat basophil leukemia cells, and in vivo in mice. The effect of PDH inhibition on mast cell function was examined. PDH interaction with MITF was measured before and after immunologic activation. Furthermore, mitochondrial localization of MITF and its effect on PDH activity were determined.

RESULTS

PDH is essential for immunologically mediated degranulation of mast cells. After activation, PDH is serine dephosphorylated. In addition, for the first time, we show that MITF is partially located in the mitochondria and interacts with PDH. This interaction is dependent on the phosphorylation state of PDH. Furthermore, mitochondrial MITF regulates PDH activity.

CONCLUSION

The association of mitochondrial MITF with PDH emerges as an important regulator of mast cell function. Our findings indicate that PDH could arise as a new target for the manipulation of allergic diseases.

Cell penetrating peptide-mediated transport enables the regulated secretion of accumulated cargoes from mast cells

The in vivo utility of technologies employing cell penetrating peptides and bioportides may be compromised by the general capacity of polycationic peptides to activate mast cell secretion. Moreover, the same technologies could be exploited in a clinical setting either to directly modulate intrinsic exocytotic mechanisms or to load mast cells with bioactive cargoes. Comparative investigations identified two cell penetrating vectors, Tat and C105Y, which readily translocate into mast cells without inducing receptor-independent exocytosis. Efficient Tat transduction also enabled the intracellular delivery and accumulation of cargoes within discrete intracellular compartments. A tetramethylrhodamine-Tat conjugate is effectively translocated into the secretory lysosomes of RBL-2H3 cells. In contract, the intracellular delivery of avidin, as a non-covalent complex with a biotinylated Tat vector, is also efficient but the protein is predominantly accumulated outside of secretory lysosomes. Significantly, both cargoes can be subsequently released following mast cell stimulation either by mastoparan, a wasp venom secretagogue, or by the physiological mechanism of antigen-induced aggregation of high affinity IgE receptors. These studies indicate that mast cells could be exploited to direct the delivery of bioactive agents to disease sites as an innovative cell-mediated therapy.

β-Defensins activate human mast cells via Mas-related gene X2

Human β-defensins (hBDs) stimulate degranulation in rat peritoneal mast cells in vitro and cause increased vascular permeability in rats in vivo. In this study, we sought to determine whether hBDs activate murine and human mast cells and to delineate the mechanisms of their regulation. hBD2 and hBD3 did not induce degranulation in murine peritoneal or bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMC) in vitro and had no effect on vascular permeability in vivo. By contrast, these peptides induced sustained Ca(2+) mobilization and substantial degranulation in human mast cells, with hBD3 being more potent. Pertussis toxin (PTx) had no effect on hBD-induced Ca(2+) mobilization, but La(3+) and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (a dual inhibitor of inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptor and transient receptor potential channels) caused substantial inhibition of this response. Interestingly, degranulation induced by hBDs was substantially inhibited by PTx, La(3+), or 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate. Whereas human mast cells endogenously express G protein-coupled receptor, Mas-related gene X2 (MrgX2), rat basophilic leukemia, RBL-2H3 cells, and murine BMMCs do not. Silencing the expression of MrgX2 in human mast cells inhibited hBD-induced degranulation, but had no effect on anaphylatoxin C3a-induced response. Furthermore, ectopic expression of MrgX2 in RBL-2H3 and murine BMMCs rendered these cells responsive to hBDs for degranulation. This study demonstrates that hBDs activate human mast cells via MrgX2, which couples to both PTx-sensitive and insensitive signaling pathways most likely involving Gαq and Gαi to induce degranulation. Furthermore, murine mast cells are resistant to hBDs for degranulation, and this reflects the absence of MrgX2 in these cells.

Emerging roles of store-operated Ca²⁺ entry through STIM and ORAI proteins in immunity, hemostasis and cancer

Store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) is an important Ca(2+) influx pathway, which is defined by the fact that depletion of intracellular Ca(2+) stores, mainly the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), triggers the opening of Ca(2+) channels in the plasma membrane. The best characterized SOC channel is the Ca(2+) release-activated Ca(2+) (CRAC) channel, which was first described in cells of the immune system but has since been reported in many different cell types. CRAC channels are multimers of ORAI family proteins, of which ORAI1 is the best characterized. They are activated by stromal interaction molecules (STIM) 1 and 2, which respond to the depletion of intracellular Ca(2+) stores with oligomerization and binding to ORAI proteins. The resulting SOCE is critical for the physiological function of many cell types including immune cells and platelets. Recent studies using cell lines, animal models and primary cells from human patients with defects in SOCE have highlighted the importance of this Ca(2+) entry mechanism in a variety of pathophysiological processes. This review focuses on the role of SOCE in immunity to infection, allergy, hemostasis and cancer.

Mas-related gene X2 (MrgX2) is a novel G protein-coupled receptor for the antimicrobial peptide LL-37 in human mast cells: resistance to receptor phosphorylation, desensitization, and internalization

Human LL-37 is a multifunctional antimicrobial peptide that promotes inflammation, angiogenesis, wound healing, and tumor metastasis. Most effects of LL-37 are mediated via the activation of the cell surface G protein-coupled receptor FPR2 on leukocytes and endothelial cells. Although LL-37 induces chemotaxis, degranulation, and chemokine production in mast cells, the receptor involved and the mechanism of its regulation remain unknown. MrgX2 is a member of Mas-related genes that is primarily expressed in human dorsal root ganglia and mast cells. We found that a human mast cell line LAD2 and CD34(+) cell-derived primary mast cells, which natively express MrgX2, responded to LL-37 for sustained Ca(2+) mobilization and substantial degranulation. However, an immature human mast cell line, HMC-1, that lacks functional MrgX2 did not respond to LL-37. shRNA-mediated knockdown of MrgX2 in LAD2 mast cell line and primary CD34(+) cell-derived mast cells caused a substantial reduction in LL-37-induced degranulation. Furthermore, mast cell lines stably expressing MrgX2 responded to LL-37 for chemotaxis, degranulation, and CCL4 production. Surprisingly, MrgX2 was resistant to LL-37-induced phosphorylation, desensitization, and internalization. In addition, shRNA-mediated knockdown of the G protein-coupled receptor kinases (GRK2 and GRK3) had no effect on LL-37-induced mast cell degranulation. This study identified MrgX2 as a novel G protein-coupled receptor for the antibacterial peptide LL-37 and demonstrated that unlike most G protein-coupled receptors it is resistant to agonist-induced receptor phosphorylation, desensitization, and internalization.

Regulators of Ca(2+) signaling in mast cells: potential targets for treatment of mast cell-related diseases?

A calcium signal is essential for degranulation, generation of eicosanoids and optimal production of cytokines in mast cells in response to antigen and other stimulants. The signal is initiated by phospholipase C-mediated production of inositol1,4,5-trisphosphate resulting in release of stored Ca(2+) from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi. Depletion of these stores activates influx of extracellular Ca(2+), usually referred to as store-operated calcium entry (SOCE), through the interaction of the Ca(2+)-sensor, stromal interacting molecule-1 (STIM1 ), in ER with Orai1(CRACM1) and transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channel proteins in the plasma membrane (PM). This interaction is enabled by microtubular-directed reorganization of ER to form ER/PM contact points or "punctae" in which STIM1 and channel proteins colocalize. The ensuing influx of Ca(2+) replenishes Ca(2+) stores and sustains elevated levels of cytosolic Ca(2+) ions-the obligatory signal for mast-cell activation. In addition, the signal can acquire spatial and dynamic characteristics (e.g., calcium puffs, waves, oscillations) that encode signals for specific functional outputs. This is achieved by coordinated regulation of Ca(2+) fluxes through ATP-dependent Ca(2+)-pumps and ion exchangers in mitochondria, ER and PM. As discussed in this chapter, studies in mast cells revealed much about the mechanisms described above but little about allergic and autoimmune diseases although studies in other types of cells have exposed genetic defects that lead to aberrant calcium signaling in immune diseases. Pharmacologic agents that inhibit or activate the regulatory components of calcium signaling in mast cells are also discussed along with the prospects for development of novel SOCE inhibitors that may prove beneficial in the treatment inflammatory mast-cell related diseases.

CGRP1 receptor activation induces piecemeal release of protease-1 from mouse bone marrow-derived mucosal mast cells

BACKGROUND

The parasitized or inflamed gastrointestinal mucosa shows an increase in the number of mucosal mast cells (MMC) and the density of extrinsic primary afferent nerve fibers containing the neuropeptide, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). Currently, the mode of action of CGRP on MMC is unknown.

METHODS

The effects of CGRP on mouse bone marrow-derived mucosal mast cells (BMMC) were investigated by measurements of intracellular Ca(2+)[Ca(2+)](i) and release of mMCP-1.

KEY RESULTS

Bone marrow-derived mucosal mast cells responded to the application of CGRP with a single transient rise in [Ca(2+)](i). The proportion of responding cells increased concentration-dependently to a maximum of 19 ± 4% at 10(-5)mol L(-1) (mean ±SEM; C48/80 100%; EC(50)10(-8) mol L(-1) ). Preincubation with the CGRP receptor antagonist BIBN4096BS (10(-5) mol L(-1)) completely inhibited BMMC activation by CGRP [range 10(-5) to 10(-11) mol L(-1); analysis of variance (ANOVA) P < 0.001], while preincubation with LaCl(3) to block Ca(2+) entry did not affect the response (P = 0.18). The presence of the CGRP1 receptor on BMMC was confirmed by simultaneous immunofluorescent detection of RAMP1 or CRLR, the two components of the CGRP1 receptor, and mMCP-1. Application of CGRP for 1 h evoked a concentration-dependent release of mMCP-1 (at EC(50) 10% of content) but not of β-hexosaminidase and alterations in granular density indicative of piecemeal release.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

We demonstrate that BMMC express functional CGRP1 receptors and that their activation causes mobilization of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores and piecemeal release of mMCP-1. These findings support the hypothesis that the CGRP signaling from afferent nerves to MMC in the gastrointestinal wall is receptor-mediated.

ORAI1 and STIM1 deficiency in human and mice: roles of store-operated Ca2+ entry in the immune system and beyond

Store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) is a mechanism used by many cells types including lymphocytes and other immune cells to increase intracellular Ca2+ concentrations to initiate signal transduction. Activation of immunoreceptors such as the T-cell receptor, B-cell receptor, or Fc receptors results in the release of Ca2+ ions from endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ stores and subsequent activation of plasma membrane Ca2+ channels such as the well-characterized Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channel. Two genes have been identified that are essential for SOCE: ORAI1 as the pore-forming subunit of the CRAC channel in the plasma membrane and stromal interaction molecule-1 (STIM1) sensing the ER Ca2+ concentration and activating ORAI1-CRAC channels. Intense efforts in the past several years have focused on understanding the molecular mechanism of SOCE and the role it plays for cell functions in vitro and in vivo. A number of transgenic mouse models have been generated to investigate the role of ORAI1 and STIM1 in immunity. In addition, mutations in ORAI1 and STIM1 identified in immunodeficient patients provide valuable insight into the role of both genes and SOCE. This review focuses on the role of ORAI1 and STIM1 in vivo, discussing the phenotypes of ORAI1- and STIM1-deficient human patients and mice.

Canonical transient receptor potential 5 channel in conjunction with Orai1 and STIM1 allows Sr2+ entry, optimal influx of Ca2+, and degranulation in a rat mast cell line

Degranulation of mast cells in response to Ag or the calcium mobilizing agent, thapsigargin, is dependent on emptying of intracellular stores of Ca(2+) and the ensuing influx of external Ca(2+), also referred to as store-operated calcium entry. However, it is unlikely that the calcium release-activated calcium channel is the sole mechanism for the entry of Ca(2+) because Sr(2+) and other divalent cations also permeate and support degranulation in stimulated mast cells. In this study we show that influx of Ca(2+) and Sr(2+) as well as degranulation are dependent on the presence of the canonical transient receptor potential (TRPC) channel protein TRPC5, in addition to STIM1 and Orai1, as demonstrated by knock down of each of these proteins by inhibitory RNAs in a rat mast cell (RBL-2H3) line. Overexpression of STIM1 and Orai1, which are known to be essential components of calcium release-activated calcium channel, allows entry of Ca(2+) but not Sr(2+), whereas overexpression of STIM1 and TRPC5 allows entry of both Ca(2+) and Sr(2+). These and other observations suggest that the Sr(2+)-permeable TRPC5 associates with STIM1 and Orai1 in a stoichiometric manner to enhance entry of Ca(2+) to generate a signal for degranulation.

Store-operated calcium entry in human oocytes and sensitivity to oxidative stress

Calcium signaling is a cellular event that plays a key role at many steps of fertilization and early development. However, little is known regarding the contribution of extracellular Ca(2+) influx into the cell to this signaling in gametes and early embryos. To better know the significance of calcium entry on oocyte physiology, we have evaluated the mechanism of store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) in human metaphase II (MII) oocytes and its sensitivity to oxidative stress, one of the major factors implicated in the outcome of in vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques. We show that depletion of intracellular Ca(2+) stores through inhibition of sarco(endo)plasmic Ca(2+)-ATPase with thapsigargin triggers Ca(2+) entry in resting human oocytes. Ba(2+) and Mn(2+) influx was also stimulated following inhibition, and Ca(2+) entry was sensitive to pharmacological inhibition because the SOCE blocker 2-aminoethoxydiphenylborate (2-APB) reduced calcium and barium entry. These results support the conclusion that there is a plasma membrane mechanism responsible for the capacitative divalent cation entry in human oocytes. Moreover, the Ca(2+) entry mechanism described in MII oocytes was found to be highly sensitive to oxidative stress. Hydrogen peroxide, at micromolar concentrations that could mimic culture conditions in IVF, elicited an increase of [Ca(2+)](i) that was dependent on the presence of extracellular Ca(2+). This rise was preventable by 2-APB, indicating that it was mainly due to the enhanced influx through store-operated calcium channels. In sum, our results demonstrate the occurrence of SOCE in human MII oocytes and the modification of this pathway due to oxidative stress, with possible consequences in IVF.

The mast cell: where endocytosis and regulated exocytosis meet

We have investigated whether Ca(2+)-binding proteins, which have been implicated in the control of neurons and neuroendocrine secretion, play a role in controlling mast cell function. These studies have identified synaptotagmins (Syts) II, III, and IX as well as neuronal Ca(2+) sensor 1 (NCS-1) as important regulators of mast cell function. Strikingly, we find that these Ca(2+)-binding proteins contribute to mast cell function by regulating specific endocytic pathways. Syt II, the most abundant Syt homologue in mast cells, resides in an amine-free lysosomal compartment. Studying the function of Syt II-knocked down rat basophilic leukemia cells has shown a dual function of this homologue. Syt II is required for the downregulation of protein kinase Calpha, but it negatively regulates lysosomal exocytosis. Syt III, the next most abundant homologue, localizes to early endosomes and is required for the formation of the endocytic recycling compartment (ERC). Syt IX and NCS-1 localize to the ERC and regulate ERC export, NCS-1 by activating phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase beta. Finally, we show that recycling through the ERC is needed for secretory granule protein sorting as well as for the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinases, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2. Accordingly, NCS-1 stimulates Fc epsilon RI-triggered exocytosis and release of arachidonic acid metabolites.

Eupatilin blocks mediator release via tyrosine kinase inhibition in activated guinea pig lung mast cells

Eupatilin, an extract from Artemisia asiatica Nakai, is known to exert anti-gastric ulcer, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of this study was to elucidate whether eupatilin has antiallergic reactions in activated guinea pig lung mast cells compared to apigenin and genistein. Mast cells were purified from guinea pig lung tissues by using enzyme digestion and rough and discontinuous density Percoll gradient. The purified mast cells were sensitized with immunoglobulin (Ig) G(1) (anti-OVA antibody) and challenged with ovalbumin (OVA). Histamine was assayed using an automated fluorometric analyzer, leukotrienes by radioimmunoassay, and tyrosine phosphorylation by immunoblotting. Intracellular Ca(2+) was analyzed by confocal laser scanning microscopy, protein kinase C (PKC) activity using protein phosphorylated with [gamma-(32)P]ATP, and phopholipase D activity (PLD) and phosphatidic acid by using labeled phosphatidyl alcohol. Eupatilin, apigenin, or genistein reduced histamine release and leukotriene synthesis in a does-dependent manner. Eupatilin inhibited mediators to a greater extent than apigenin or genistein. Eupatilin, apigenin, and genistein initially blocked phosphorylation of Syk tyrosine and Ca(2+) influx, PLD activity, phosphatidic acid, and Ca(2+)-dependent PKC alpha/betaII activities during mast cell activation in a dose-dependent manner. Our data suggest that eupatilin initially inhibits Syk kinase, and then blocks downstream multisignal pathways and Ca(2+) influx during mast cell activation triggered by a specific antigen-antibody reaction. Thus, eupatilin may have use clinically as a treatment for inflammatory disorders associated with allergic diseases including asthma.

Real-time analysis of ligand-induced cell surface and intracellular reactions of living mast cells using a surface plasmon resonance-based biosensor

Surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-based sensors have been used to detect the binding between interactive molecules. We applied the SPR technology to the analysis of interactions between living cells and molecules reactive to the cells, using mast cells and mast cell-reactive antigens. The exposure of dinitrophenol-human serum albumin (DNP-HSA), an antigen that stimulates mast cells, to IgE-sensitized mast cells induced a robust and long-lasting SPR signal in a dose-dependent manner. The maximal increase in SPR signal induced by 100 ng/ml DNP-HSA was 0.200 +/- 0.120 angle (mean +/- SD, n = 37), about 1000 times larger than the theoretically expected increase for the simple binding of DNP-HSA to Fc(epsilon)RI, the high-affinity IgE receptor. A small, but similarly prolonged signal was observed when the cells were stimulated by an agonist of the adenosine A3 receptor. The signal induced by DNP-HSA was abolished by genistein, and partially inhibited by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and wortmannin. Interestingly, the signal induced by DNP-HSA was only weakly inhibited by DNP-lysine, suggesting that DNP-lysine manifests its action not by inhibiting, but by modulating the crosslinking of Fc(epsilon)RI. We concluded that SPR sensors can detect biologically significant signals in a real-time manner from the interactions between cells and molecules reactive to the cells.

Evidence against the functional involvement of outwardly rectifying Cl- channels in agonist-induced mast cell exocytosis

In isolated rat peritoneal mast cells, an outwardly rectifying Cl- channel has been described. Influx of Cl- through this Cl- channel (I(Cl-(OR)) causes hyperpolarization, which facilitates Ca2+ currents through store-operated Ca2+ channels. The exocytotic effect of nerve growth factor (NGF) in the presence of lyso-phosphatidylserine strictly depends on the presence of extracellular [Ca2+]o. The aim of the present study was to assess the importance of I(Cl-(OR)) for exocytosis induced by NGF/lyso-phosphatidylserine. Therefore, we investigated the effects on NGF/lyso-phosphatidylserine-induced exocytosis of [3H]5-hydroxytryptamine ([3H]5-HT) in rat peritoneal mast cells: (a) of two inhibitors of I(Cl-(OR)) (4,4'-diisothiocyanatostilbene2,2'-disulfonic acid [DIDS] and diethylstilbestrol), and (b) of replacement of extracellular Cl- by methylsulfate. Additionally, whole-cell patch-clamp experiments (nystatin-perforated patch) were performed. Diethylstibestrol and DIDS, in concentrations sufficient to abolish the I(Cl-(OR)) (10 microM) and the replacement of (Cl-)o by methylsulfate, were ineffective in impairing the NGF/lyso-phosphatidylserine-induced [3H]5-HT-release. These findings argue against a role of outwardly rectifying Cl- channels in exocytosis induced by NGF/lyso-phosphatidylserine in rat peritoneal mast cells.

Amperometric characterization of exocytotic events from single mast cells: dependence on external and internal Ca++ sources

Mast cells exocytotically release histamine/serotonin in response to different secretagogues. We have used substance P and compound 48/80 to study the Ca++ dependency of serotonin exocytosis from peritoneal mast cells using carbon fiber amperometric techniques. The exocytotic release pattern consists of a burst of events superimposed on a slow, transient, amperometric current baseline increase. Cellular re lease parameters (number, frequency and total charge of amperometric events) and individual event characteristics (charge integral, half width and peak amplitude) were similar for the two secretagogues used. Zero Ca++ conditions greatly reduced, without completely abolishing,cellular release parameters. Cyclopiazonic acid, an inhibitor of the endoplasmatic Ca++ ATPase, reduced the cellular exocytotic capacity and diminished the amplitude of individual exocytotic events more effectively than the 0 Ca++ condition. The cyclopiazonic acid effects occurred in the presence of external Ca++, indicating that this condition is not sufficient for maintaining full exocytotic capacity. The results confirm the importance of intracellular Ca++ for exocytotic activation. For the first time evidence is presented that the integrity of intracellular Ca++ pools determines the amplitude and frequency of individual exocytotic events. Saponin, a non-specific detergent, also induced quantal release similar to that obtained with substance P and compound 48/80. This release was not dependent on extracellular Ca++, but cyclopiazonic acid significantly reduced individual exocytotic release.

Na(+)-dependent Ca(2+) transport modulates the secretory response to the Fcepsilon receptor stimulus of mast cells

Immunological stimulation of rat mucosal-type mast cells (RBL-2H3 line) by clustering of their Fcepsilon receptors (FcepsilonRI) causes a rapid and transient increase in free cytoplasmic Ca(2+) ion concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) because of its release from intracellular stores. This is followed by a sustained elevated [Ca(2+)](i), which is attained by Ca(2+) influx. Because an FcepsilonRI-induced increase in the membrane permeability for Na(+) ions has also been observed, and secretion is at least partially inhibited by lowering of extracellular sodium ion concentrations ([Na(+)](o)), the operation of a Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger has been considered. We found significant coupling between the Ca(2+) and Na(+) ion gradients across plasma membranes of RBL-2H3 cells, which we investigated employing (23)Na-NMR, (45)Ca(2+), (85)Sr(2+), and the Ca(2+)-sensitive fluorescent probe indo-1. The reduction in extracellular Ca(2+) concentrations ([Ca(2+)](o)) provoked a [Na(+)](i) increase, and a decrease in [Na(+)](o) results in a Ca(2+) influx as well as an increase in [Ca(2+)](i). Mediator secretion assays, monitoring the released beta-hexosaminidase activity, showed in the presence of extracellular sodium a sigmoidal dependence on [Ca(2+)](o). However, the secretion was not affected by varying [Ca(2+)](o) as [Na(+)](o) was lowered to 0.4 mM, while it was almost completely inhibited at [Na(+)](o) = 136 mM and [Ca(2+)](o) < 0.05 mM. Increasing [Na(+)](o) caused the secretion to reach a minimum at [Na(+)](o) = 20 mM, followed by a steady increase to its maximum value at 136 mM. A parallel [Na(+)](o) dependence of the Ca(2+) fluxes was observed: Antigen stimulation at [Na(+)](o) = 136 mM caused a pronounced Ca(2+) influx. At [Na(+)](o) = 17 mM only a slight Ca(2+) efflux was detected, whereas at [Na(+)](o) = 0.4 mM no Ca(2+) transport across the cell membrane could be observed. Our results clearly indicate that the [Na(+)](o) dependence of the secretory response to FcepsilonRI stimulation is due to its influence on the [Ca(2+)](i), which is mediated by a Na(+)-dependent Ca(2+) transport.

Single granule pH cycling in antigen-induced mast cell secretion

The pH cycling of individual granules in secreting (serotonin-loaded) mast cells is quantitatively examined using multicolor multiphoton fluorescence microscopy. A typical exocytosis event consists of maximal calcium rise at time zero, granule alkalization a few seconds later and, finally, complete contents release at a fraction of a second after alkalization. Membrane fusion is either transient, as indicated by subsequent granule reacidification, or ‘full’, as indicated by a granule disappearance with a collapse of its membrane into the plasma membrane. The relative frequency of these two coexisting behaviors (the ‘kiss-to-collapse’ ratio) is approximately 2:1. A typical transiently fusing granule experiences multiple alkalization/acidification cycles after addition of exogenous antigen. Between recycling granules, coalescence events are frequent, with 80% resulting in a collapse of the formed granule complex to the plasma membrane. The full dynamics of secretion encompass a complex combination of these granule activities.

The stem of sinomenium acutum inhibits mast cell-mediated anaphylactic reactions and tumor necrosis factor-alpha production from rat peritoneal mast cells

The aqueous extract of Sinomenium acutum stem (SSAE) (0.1-1000 mg/kg) dose-dependently inhibited systemic anaphylactic reaction induced by compound 48/80 in mice. In particular, SSAE reduced compound 48/80-induced anaphylactic reaction with 50% at the dose of 1000 mg/kg. SSAE (100-1000 mg/kg) also significantly inhibited local anaphylactic reaction activated by anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP) IgE. When mice were pretreated with SSAE at a concentration ranging from 0.1 to 1000 mg/kg, the plasma histamine levels were reduced in a dose-dependent manner. SSAE (1-1000 microg/ml) dose-dependently inhibited histamine release from the rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMCs) activated by compound 48/80 or anti-DNP IgE. In addition, SSAE (0.1 microg/ml) had a significant inhibitory effect on anti-DNP IgE-induced tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) production. These results indicate that SSAE inhibits mast cell-mediated anaphylactic reactions and TNF-alpha production from mast cells.

Chemotaxis of Rat Mast Cells Toward Adenine Nucleotides

Rat mucosal mast cells express P2 purinoceptors, occupation of which mobilizes cytosolic Ca2+ and activates a potassium conductance. The primary function of this P2 system in mast cell biology remains unknown. Here, we show that extracellular ADP causes morphological changes in rat bone marrow-cultured mast cells (BMMC) typical of those occurring in cells stimulated by chemotaxins, and that the nucleotides ADP, ATP, and UTP are effective chemoattractants for rat BMMC. ADP was also a chemotaxin for murine J774 monocytes. The nucleotide selectivity and pertussis toxin sensitivity of the rat BMMC migratory response suggest the involvement of P2U receptors. Poorly hydrolyzable derivatives of ADP and ATP were effective chemotaxins, obviating a role for adenosine receptors. Buffering of external Ca2+ at 100 nM or reduction of the electrical gradient driving Ca2+ entry (by elevating external K+) blocked ADP-driven chemotaxis, suggesting a role for Ca2+ influx in this process. Anaphylatoxin C5a was a potent chemotaxin (EC50 ≈0.5 nM) for J774 monocytes, but it was inactive on rat BMMC in the presence or absence of laminin. Ca2+ removal or elevated [K+] had modest effects on C5a-driven chemotaxis of J774 cells, implicating markedly different requirements for Ca2+ signaling in C5a- vs ADP-mediated chemotaxis. This is supported by the observation that depletion of Ca2+ stores with thapsigargin completely blocked migration induced by ADP but not C5a. These findings suggest that adenine nucleotides liberated from parasite-infested tissue could participate in the recruitment of mast cells by intestinal mucosa.

Inhibition of mouse mast cell proliferation and proinflammatory mediator release by benzodiazepines

Mast cell (MC) activation may occur in vitro and in vivo following stimulation with various immunologic or nonimmunologic agents. Such activation leads to the release of several biological mediators, including vasoactive amines, nitric oxide and cytokines, which account for the adverse effects observed during allergic reactions. While high affinity binding sites for benzodiazepines (BZDs) have been reported on MC, the effects of the ligation of these receptors on the proliferation of, and the mediator release from, these cells are poorly documented. In the present work, we have examined the effects of midazolam and of diazepam on the proliferation of mucosal (MMC)-like and of serosal (CTMC)-like mouse MC. In addition, we have studied the effects of these BZDs on beta-hexosaminidase, TNF-alpha and nitrite release induced from mouse mast cells through IgE receptor activation. We demonstrated that each of the two BZDs studied inhibited the proliferation of MMC- and CTMC-like elements in a dose-dependent fashion (10 to 100 microM). Furthermore, the BZDs inhibited the IgE-mediated release of beta-hexosaminidase, TNF-alpha and nitrites from MMC- or CTMC-like cells. Altogether, these data provide new insights into the pharmacological regulation of MC activation and may lead to the discovery of new and potent antiallergic compounds.

Calcium signaling and protein kinase C for TNF-alpha secretion in a rat mast cell line

In mast cells, like other nonexcitable cells, receptor activation produces Ca2+-mobilizing second messengers such as inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate or sphingosine-1-phosphate, which induce Ca2+ release from internal stores. The resulting depletion of Ca2+ stores activates Ca2+ channels in plasma membranes designated as Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channels. Ionomycin appears to cause activation of CRAC channels by depleting intracellular Ca2+ stores rather than by acting as an ionophore. We compared the effects of azelastine, an anti-allergic drug, on TNF-alpha secretion, on Ca2+ signal, and on degranulation in an antigen- or ionomycin-stimulated rat mast RBL-2H3 cell line. Azelastine inhibited TNF-alpha release at concentrations lower than those needed for the inhibition of degranulation. In antigen-stimulated cells, azelastine also inhibited equipotently TNF-alpha mRNA expression/protein synthesis, TNF-alpha release and Ca2+ influx. In ionomycin-stimulated cells, however, azelastine inhibited TNF-alpha release to a greater extent than TNF-alpha mRNA expression/protein synthesis and Ca2+ influx, indicating that azelastine inhibits the release process more potently than transcription or production of TNF-alpha by interfering with a signal other than Ca2+. Pretreatment with 1 microM azelastine inhibited ionomycin-induced, but not antigen-induced, protein kinase C translocation to the membranes. These results suggest that TNF-alpha transcription/production is mainly regulated by Ca2+ influx, but the release process of TNF-alpha is regulated by additional mechanism(s) possibly involving activation of protein kinase C.

Dual effect of the anti-allergic astemizole on Ca2+ fluxes in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) cells: release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores and inhibition of Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ influx

The antiallergic drugs astemizole and norastemizole inhibit exocytosis in mast cells, which might be relevant for their therapeutic action. From previous studies, it appeared that the drugs inhibited 45Ca2+ influx. Here, we present a more detailed study on the effects of astemizole and norastemizole on Ca2+ fluxes. Fura-2-loaded rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) cells were activated through the high-affinity receptor for IgE (FcepsilonRI) with antigen or by the endoplasmatic reticulum ATPase inhibitor thapsigargin, bypassing direct FcepsilonRI-related events. It appeared that astemizole (>15 microM), in contrast to norastemizole, showed a dual effect on intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i): a rise in intracellular calcium concentration was induced, which originated in the release of intracellular Ca2+ stores, whereas Ca2+ influx via store-operated Ca2+ (SOC) channels was inhibited. Ca2+ influx was further characterized using Ba2+ influx, whereas processes in the absence of Ca2+ influx were studied using Ni2+ or EGTA. It was concluded that the drugs most likely affect the store-operated Ca2+ channels in RBL cells directly. The two effects of astemizole on Ca2+ fluxes had opposing influences on exocytosis, thereby accounting for the biphasic effect of increasing astemizole concentration on mediator release in RBL cells.

Inhibition of rat peritoneal mast cell exocytosis by frusemide: a study with different secretagogues

It has been reported that the loop diuretic frusemide can prevent exercise induced asthma, and that this effect may be due to the inhibition of mast cells in the airway. By using various mast cell secretagogues which increase intracellular calcium via different routes, this study attempted to elucidate the mechanism of the mast cell stabilizing action of frusemide. As well as confirming that immunologically induced histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells was dose dependently inhibited by frusemide (10(-3) - 10(-5) M), the present study has extended the observation to histamine release induced by compound 48/80. The inhibitory potency was however less in the case of compound 48/80 induced release. Frusemide induced inhibition by the two secretagogues was decreased by drug preincubation. In contrast, histamine release induced by ionophore A23187 and thapsigargin was not inhibited by frusemide. The prototype antiallergic compound disodium cromoglycate (DSCG) demonstrated a similar specificity pattern against the various secretagogues. Another loop diuretic, bumetanide, did not show the same results as frusemide on rat peritoneal mast cell degranulation. Hence it is concluded that frusemide does not inhibit immunological activation of mast cells via its diuretic Na+/K+/Cl- co-transporter capacity. Instead, it protects mast cells in a similar manner to DSCG.

Calcium signalling: sphingosine kinase versus phospholipase C?

A recent study shows that sphingosine kinase and its lipid product have an essential signalling function; they act in the mobilization of calcium ions in antigen-stimulated mast cells. This finding may have relevance to signalling in other cells of the immune system.

Identification of the Zn2+ binding region in calreticulin

Calreticulin binds Zn2+ with the relatively high affinity/low capacity. To determine the location of the Zn2+ binding site in calreticulin different domains of the protein were expressed in E. coli, using the glutathione S-transferase fusion protein system, and their Zn(2+)-dependent interaction with Zn(2+)-IDA-agarose were determined. Three distinct domains were used in this study: the N + P-domain (the first 290 residues); the N-domain (residues 1-182) and the proline-rich P-domain (residues 180-273). The N + P-domain bound to the Zn(2+)-IDA-agarose and were eluted with an increasing concentration of imidazole. The N-domain also bound 65Zn2+ as measured by the overlay method. The P-domain did not interact with the Zn(2+)-IDA-agarose and it did not bind any detectable amount of Zn2+. Chemical modification of calreticulin with diethyl pyrocarbonate indicated that five out of seven histidines were protected in the presence of Zn2+ but they were modified by diethyl pyrocarbonate in the absence of Zn2+ suggesting that these residues may be involved in Zn2+ binding to calreticulin. We conclude that Zn2+ binding sites in calreticulin are localized to the N-domain of the protein, region that is not involved in Ca2+ binding to calreticulin.

Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor, cyclopiazonic acid, releases Ca2+ from intracellular stores in RBL-2H3 mast cells and activates a Ca2+ influx pathway that is permeable to sodium and manganese

Cyclopiazonic acid has been reported to inhibit the Ca(2+)-ATPase of intracellular calcium stores in some nonexcitable cell types, such as myeloid cells and lymphocytes. The present study examines the effects of cyclopiazonic acid on rat basophilic leukemia (RBL) cells, a mucosal mast cell line. Addition of cyclopiazonic acid to fura-2-loaded RBL cells evoked a biphasic increase in free ionized intracellular calcium. Release of stored calcium accounted for the first phase of this response. The second phase was determined to be calcium entering through an influx pathway activated by cyclopiazonic acid. The influx pathway was selective for calcium, but was somewhat permeable to manganese. However, in a Ca(2+)-free solution containing EGTA, sodium ions permeated freely. This influx pathway appears to be identical to that which is activated by antigen, the physiological stimulus to the cells. Cyclopiazonic acid also induced secretion when combined with the phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol 13-acetate, which activates protein kinase C.

Regulation by purinergic agonists of zinc uptake by rat submandibular glands

The zinc uptake in rat submandibular cells was measured using fura2 as a fluorescent probe. Basal zinc uptake was observed in a 100 microM - 1 mM concentration range. Carbachol and isoproterenol had no effect but ATP4- dose-dependently increased the basal zinc uptake (half-maximal concentration: 250 microM). The purinergic agonist shifted the concentration curve for zinc to the left by one order of magnitude. The response to ATP was not reproduced by adenosine or ADP and was blocked by Coomassie blue. Calcium, nickel or lanthanum were inhibitors of zinc uptake, while the substitution of extracellular sodium by potassium or lithium increased the basal zinc uptake. We conclude that in submandibular cells zinc can permeate through the non-specific cation channel coupled to ATP-sensitive purinergic receptors.

Differential release of histamine and prostaglandin D2 in rat peritoneal mast cells: roles of cytosolic calcium and protein tyrosine kinases

We studied how the release of histamine and prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) were connected in stimulated rat peritoneal mast cells, and to what extent these processes were controlled by the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration, [Ca2+]i, and protein tyrosine kinases. In the presence of 1 mM CaCl2, the G-protein activating compound 48/80 (10 micrograms/ml) evoked a transient rise in [Ca2+]i and a relatively high secretion of histamine, but only a low release of PGD2. In contrast, 5 microM thapsigargin (an inhibitor of endomembrane Ca(2+)-ATPases) and 5 microM ionomycin evoked high and prolonged rises in [Ca2+]i, and stimulated the cells to release relatively small amounts of histamine and high amounts of PGD2. Stimulation of the cells with CaCl2 and 10 microM ATP4- gave only minor quantities of histamine and PGD2, despite of the micromolar level of [Ca2+]i reached. When CaCl2 was replaced by EGTA, rises in [Ca2+]i as well as release of histamine and PGD2 were reduced with each agonist, but the preference of agonists to release more histamine or PGD2 remained unchanged. In mast cells with depleted Ca2+ stores, the addition of CaCl2 stimulated the store-regulated Ca2+ entry resulting in a prolonged rise in [Ca2+]i. However, simultaneous addition of compound 48/80 and CaCl2 was required for release of histamine and PGD2. In cells with full stores, PGD2 release evoked by compound 48/80 was greatly reduced by genistein and methyl-2,5-dihydroxycinnamate, two structurally unrelated inhibitors of protein tyrosine kinases, whereas histamine secretion was not influenced by these inhibitors. Similarly, with thapsigargin or ionomycin as agonist, PGD2 release was more sensitive to the tyrosine kinase inhibitors than histamine secretion. We conclude that in activated rat peritoneal mast cells: (i) the influx of extracellular Ca2+ potentiates agonist-evoked rises in [Ca2+]i as well as histamine secretion and PGD2 release; (ii) the amplitude of the [Ca2+]i rise does not determine the preferential effect of agonists to release more histamine or more PGD2; (iii) the relatively high PGD2 release evoked by thapsigargin and ionomycin is probably due to their potency to evoke a prolonged rise in [Ca2+]i and to activate protein tyrosine kinases.

Immunological stimulation of single rat basophilic leukemia RBL-2H3 cells co-activates Ca(2+)-entry and K(+)-channels

The relationship between type 1 Fc epsilon-receptor (Fc epsilon RI) mediated cell stimulation, Ca(2+)-signals and membrane currents was studied in rat mucosal mast cells, subline RBL-2H3 by combining patch-clamp, Fura-2, 45Ca(2+)-uptake and secretory response measurements. Cells were stimulated by Fc epsilon RI clustering either with IgE and antigen or by an IgE specific monoclonal antibody. Both stimuli induced a biphasic increase in the free intracellular Ca(2+)-concentration ([Ca2+]i). Fc epsilon RI clustering in Ca(2+)-free solution induces a transient increase in [Ca2+]i reflecting Ca2+ release from the Ins(1,4,5)P3 sensitive stores. Mn2+ applied to a nominally Ca(2+)-free solution, causes quenching of the Fura-2 emission during Fc epsilon RI clustering, indicating activation of a transmembrane pathway for the entry of extracellular calcium ions. Whole-cell current-voltage relationship of resting cells showed strong inward rectification. The inward current component at a potential of -100 mV is increased by 23 +/- 11% (n = 14) upon Fc epsilon RI clustering, whereas the outward component at +50 mV was enhanced by 45 +/- 6%. The Fc epsilon RI activated current was identified as due to K+ ions, because it reversed close to the K(+)-equilibrium potential, was blocked by Ba2+ or Cs+ containing or K(+)-free bath solutions. It was also inhibited by TEA and quinidine, while DIDS had no effect. Moreover, an inwardly rectifying K(+)-channel with a conductance of 28 pS was recorded in single channel measurements. The open probability of this channel increased by 39 +/- 16% (n = 8) upon Fc epsilon RI clustering. Superfusion of the cells with nominally K(+)-free solution also significantly inhibited both the Fc epsilon RI mediated 45Ca2+ uptake and the secretory response of the cells. We conclude that activation of K(+)-channels upon Fc epsilon RI clustering is functionally involved in the control and the maintenance of the secretory response of RBL-2H3 mast cells.

Blockade of the inward rectifier potassium current by the Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor 2',5'-di(tert-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone (BHQ)

1. We have investigated the effect of 2',5'-di (tert-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone (BHQ) and thapsigargin, inhibitors of the intracellular Ca(2+)-ATPase, on ionic currents in rat basophilic leukaemia (RBL-2H3) cells under whole cell voltage clamp. 2. The whole cell current was inwardly rectifying and reversed at -35 +/- 6 mV (n = 16). The conductance of the inward current increased as the concentration of extracellular K+ was raised from 2.7 to 5.4, 10.8 and 21.6 mM. BaCl2 (100 microM) reduced the current to a small linear component and shifted the reversal potential to -4 +/- 3 mV (n = 6). A concentration of 50 microM BaCl2 produced 45 +/- 10% (n = 4) blockade of the inward current. 3. BHQ and thapsigargin were examined for their effects on the inwardly rectifying current. A maximal blockade of inward current was obtained within 6 min after perfusion with 10 microM BHQ. The small current remaining after blockade with BHQ had a linear voltage-dependence and reversed direction at -6 +/- 9 mV (n = 6). Thapsigargin (up to 3 microM) was without effect on the inward rectifier. 4. In contrast to the blockade of the inward rectifier produced by BaCl2 which was predominantly on the steady state current, particularly at the very hyperpolarized holding potentials (-120 mV), blockade by BHQ was equally strong on the instantaneous as well as the steady state current. 5. Blockade of the inward rectifier by BHQ may cause depolarization of the cell which will affect Ca2+ influx during investigations with BHQ. Thapsigargin does not block the inward rectifier and will not inhibit Ca2+ influx in this way.

Interactions between adenosine A1- and histamine H1-receptors

The interactions or "cross-talk" between adenosine A1-receptors and receptors coupled to phospholipase C (leading to the hydrolysis of inositol phospholipids) have been well documented in the literature. For example, activating the A1-receptor selectively potentiates the histamine H1-receptor stimulated hydrolysis of inositol phospholipids in guinea-pig cerebral slices. In contrast, when the adenosine receptor is activated in the cerebral cortex of mouse or man the histamine response is selectively inhibited. Our studies have focused on the smooth muscle cell line, DDT1 MF-2, derived from hamster vas deferens. These cells express A1-receptors which, in addition to the expected negative coupling to adenylate cyclase, also stimulate inositol phospholipid hydrolysis and Ca2+ mobilization. These A1-receptors also potentiate histamine H1-receptor responses, i.e. inositol phospholipid hydrolysis and Ca2+ mobilization. The mechanism(s) underlying the potentiation or inhibition of histamine H1-receptor responses by the adenosine A1-receptor remain to be unravelled. One mechanism may involve intracellular "cross-talk" at the G-protein level. This review will discuss how beta gamma subunits from G(i) proteins could be involved in augmenting responses to calcium mobilizing receptors.

Effect of signal transduction pathways on the action of thapsigargin on rat mast cells. Crosstalks between cellular signalling and cytosolic pH

Thapsigargin elicits histamine release on rat mast cells, and this effect is increased if cells are pretreated with thapsigargin before the addition of external calcium. Okadaic acid does not modify the response of mast cells to thapsigargin, while sodium fluoride or the phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) increases several fold the sensitivity of cells to thapsigargin. On the other hand, pertussis and cholera toxins inhibit the response to thapsigargin. Thapsigargin increases the activity of the Na(+)-H+ exchanger, this effect being blocked by fluoride and not modified by TPA. The metals cadmium and lanthanum completely block the effect of TPA or thapsigargin on the Na(+)-H+ exchanger. The influx of 45Ca in rat mast cells is not modified by thapsigargin, but if cells are treated with thapsigargin before the addition of calcium, the influx is markedly increased in the first 2 min before returning to normal. Our results indicate that exocytosis is modulated by crosstalks between intracellular calcium, cytosolic pH and external calcium.

In vitro inhibition, by loratadine and descarboxyethoxyloratadine, of histamine release from human basophils, and of histamine release and intracellular calcium fluxes in rat basophilic leukemia cells (RBL-2H3)

The effect of the H1-antihistamine drug loratadine and its active metabolite descarboxyethoxyloratadine upon histamine release was examined on anti-immunoglobulin E (IgE) triggered human basophils and 2,4-dinitrophenyl (DNP) triggered rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) cells. In both experimental systems, dose-dependent inhibition of histamine release was observed at descarboxyethoxyloratadine and loratadine doses above 2 and 7 microM, respectively. In the RBL-2H3 experimental system, inhibition by loratadine increased when the concentration of extracellular Ca2+ was reduced from 1.8 to 0.45 mM. We further investigated the effect of loratadine and descarboxyethoxyloratadine on the increase in cytosolic calcium concentration (Ca2+)i, an early step in biochemical events leading to exocytosis. The effect of these two drugs upon (Ca2+)i changes was measured using the fluorescent probe fura-2 loaded into RBL-2H3 cells passively sensitized with DNP-specific IgE. Both drugs inhibited, in a dose-dependent manner (2.5-25 microM), the (Ca2+)i rise induced by DNP-BSA challenge in sensitized RBL cells, a process observed in both the presence and absence of extracellular Ca2+. Loratadine also inhibited the Mn2+ influx into these cells, thus reflecting the Ca2+ influx. These results suggest that loratadine and descarboxyethoxyloratadine impair the increase in (Ca2+)i following cell activation by decreasing both the influx of extracellular Ca2+ and the release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores.

Membrane potential regulates Ca2+ uptake and inositol phosphate generation in rat sublingual mucous acini

In salivary acinar cells, muscarinic-induced fluid secretion is associated with a 1,4,5-IP3 induced increase in the cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), which in turn activates Ca(2+)-dependent K+ and Cl- channels that modulate the membrane potential. In the present study the influence of the membrane potential on [Ca2+]i and inositol phosphates was monitored in rat sublingual mucous acini. Depolarization induced by switching from 5.8 mM extracellular K+ ([K+]e) to 116 mM [K+]e resulted in a transient increase in the [Ca2+]i measured using the Ca2+ sensitive fluorescent indicator Fura-2. This initial rapid (t1/2 approximately 5 s) increase (approximately 3-fold) in [Ca2+]i was dependent on extracellular Ca2+, insensitive to nifedipine, and followed by establishment of a 'new' resting [Ca2+]i, approximately 35% higher than the level in physiological [K+]e. Depolarization also induced a significant rise in the resting cellular inositol trisphosphate (IP3) and inositol tetrakisphosphate (IP4) contents, but not 1,4,5-IP3 content. Stimulation with 10 microM carbachol (CCh, a muscarinic agonist) produced a biphasic increase in [Ca2+]i, the initial transient phase due to mobilization of Ca2+ from an intracellular pool, and a sustained phase mediated by an influx of Ca2+. Membrane depolarization had no effect on the initial phase, while, the sustained increase in [Ca2+]i was eliminated. The CCh-enhanced quench of the Fura-2 signal by Mn2+ (an index for divalent cation entry) was reversibly inhibited by depolarization. The enhanced Mn2+ uptake induced by inhibiting microsomal Ca(2+)-ATPase with thapsigargin was similarly inhibited by membrane depolarization, consistent with the effect of depolarization primarily acting on the Ca2+ entry pathway and not on receptor coupling. Depolarization did not alter the initial CCh-induced increases in IP3, IP4 or 1,4,5-IP3 content, or the sustained increase in 1,4,5-IP3, whereas, depolarization significantly blunted (> 70%) the sustained, CCh-induced generation of IP3 and IP4. The membrane potential, therefore, appears to modulate Ca2+ activated fluid secretion by controlling the driving force for Ca2+ entry via a depletion-activated Ca2+ entry pathway. Inositol phosphate metabolism is also influenced by the membrane potential, but this effect apparently plays a minor role in regulating [Ca2+]i since 1,4,5-IP3 levels were unchanged by depolarization.

Signal transduction by Fc receptors: the Fc epsilon RI case

The family of proteins collectively known as Fc receptors (FcR) plays a variety of roles both in the initiation of the immune response and in its consequences. During the past five years the structure of these proteins and the genes that code for them have been largely elucidated. The most unexpected finding has been their extensive diversity. Considerable efforts are now being expended to define the molecular events initiated by these various FcR and these events are the focus of our review.

Adenosine A1-receptor stimulated increases in intracellular calcium in the smooth muscle cell line, DDT1MF-2

1. The effect of a range of adenosine receptor agonists on intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) has been studied in the hamster vas deferens smooth muscle cell line DDT1MF-2. 2. Adenosine receptor agonists elicited a rapid and maintained increase in [Ca2+]i in fura-2 loaded DDT1MF-2 cells. The initial rise could be maintained in the absence of extracellular calcium, whereas the maintained or plateau phase was dependent upon the presence of extracellular calcium and appeared to be associated with calcium influx. The rank order of agonist potencies was N6-cyclopentyladenosine > 5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine > 2-chloroadenosine > adenosine. 3. The response to 2-chloroadenosine was antagonized by the antagonists 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX, KD 0.14 nM) and 8-phenyltheophylline (KD 112 nM). 4. Pretreatment with the 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor AA861 (20 microM) produced only a small (14 +/- 2%) inhibition of the [Ca2+]i response elicted by N6-cyclopentyladenosine (300 nM), in nominally Ca(2+)-free buffer containing 0.1 mM EGTA. The cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin (2 microM) was without effect. 5. The Ca(2+)-influx associated with the plateau phase required the continued presence of agonist on the receptor. The antagonist DPCPX (100 nM) attenuated the rise in [Ca2+]i observed when extracellular Ca2+ was re-applied after the cells had been stimulated with N6-cyclopentyladenosine (CPA; 300 nM) in experiments initiated in nominally Ca(2+)-free buffer. 6. Pretreatment with pertussis toxin (200 ng ml-1 for 4 h) inhibited the CPA (100 nM) stimulated intracellular Ca2+ release and Ca2+ influx but was without effect on the response to histamine (100 microM). 7.These data suggest that adenosine A(1)-receptor activation in DDT(1)MF-2 cells stimulates release of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores and influx of extracellular Ca(2+) through Ca(2+) entry pathways in the plasma membrane which required the continued presence of agonist on the receptor.

Fc epsilon receptor mediated Ca2+ influx into mast cells is modulated by the concentration of cytosolic free Ca2+ ions

The relationship between the Fc epsilon receptor mediated stimulation of mast cells and the Ca2+ signal it induces were studied using thapsigargin (TG), a blocker of the endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump. TG induced, in mucosal mast cells (RBL-2H3 line), a dose-dependent and an InsP3-independent increase in [Ca2+]i (from resting levels of 83-150 nM to 600-680 nM), and a secretory response amounting to 30-50% of that observed upon Fc epsilon RI clustering. The TG induced rise of [Ca2+]i is most probably provided by both arrest of its uptake by the endoplasmic reticulum and influx from the medium. Thus, Ca2+ influx in mast cells may be modulated by the [Ca2+]i level.

12-Lipoxygenase from rat basophilic leukemia cells, an oxygenase with leukotriene A4-synthase activity

Rat basophilic leukemia cells exhibit 12-lipoxygenase activity only upon cell disruption. 12-Lipoxygenase may also possess 15-lipoxygenase activity, as is indicated by the formation of low amounts of 15(S)-HETE, in addition to the predominant product 12(S)-HETE, upon incubation of partially purified 12-lipoxygenase with arachidonic acid. With 5(S)-HPETE as substrate not only 5(S), 12(S)-diHETE and 5(S), 15(S)-diHETE are formed, but also LTA4, as was indicated by the presence of LTA4-derived LTB4-isomers. 12-Lipoxygenase from rat basophilic leukemia cells has many features in common with 12-lipoxygenase from bovine leukocytes. As was suggested for the latter enzyme, 12-lipoxygenase from rat basophilic leukemia cells may represent the remaining LTA4-synthase activity of 5-lipoxygenase, of which the 5-dioxygenase activity has disappeared upon cell disruption. Such a possible shift from 5-lipoxygenase activity to 12-lipoxygenase activity could not simply be induced by interaction of cytosolic 5-lipoxygenase with a membrane fraction after cell disruption, but may involve release of membrane-associated 5-lipoxygenase upon disruption of activated rat basophilic leukemia cells.

Adenosine A1-receptor stimulation of inositol phospholipid hydrolysis and calcium mobilisation in DDT1 MF-2 cells

1. The effect of adenosine receptor-stimulation on inositol phospholipid hydrolysis and calcium mobilization has been investigated in the hamster vas deferens smooth muscle cell line DDT1 MF-2. 2. Adenosine receptor stimulation increased the accumulation of total [3H]-inositol phosphates in DDT1 MF-2 cells prelabelled with [3H]-myo-inositol. The rank order of agonist potencies was N6-cyclopentyladenosine greater than 5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine greater than 2-chloroadenosine greater than adenosine. 3. The response to 2-chloroadenosine was antagonized by the antagonists 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (KD 1.2 nM), PD 115,199 (KD 39 nM) and 8-phenyltheophylline (KD 31 nM). 4. The inositol phosphate response to 2-chloradenosine (10 microM) was not significantly altered when the extracellular Ca2+ ion concentration was reduced from 2.4 mM to 1.2 mM or 0.6 mM. Under calcium-free conditions, however, a reduced but still significant response to 2-chloroadenosine was evident (39 +/- 10% of the response in calcium-containing medium). 5. The 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor AA861 (10 and 100 microM) inhibited the inositol phosphate response to 2-chloroadenosine by 40 +/- 9% and 60 +/- 4% respectively. The cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin, however, was without significant effect at 1 microM. 6. 2-Chloroadenosine stimulated an increase in intracellular free Ca2+ ion concentration in fura-2 loaded DDT1 MF-2 cells in calcium-free medium containing 0.1 mM EGTA, which could be inhibited by the adenosine A1-receptor antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (0.1 microM). 7. These data suggest that adenosine A1-receptor stimulation results in inositol phospholipid hydrolysis and calcium mobilization from intracellular stores in DDT1 MF-2 cells.