Human platelets express the SERCA2-b isoform of Ca(2+)-transport ATPase

ADP receptor P2Y12 is the capstone of the cross-talk between Ca2+ mobilization pathways dependent on Ca2+ ATPases sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum type 3 and type 2b in platelets

Background

Blood platelet Ca²⁺ stores are regulated by 2 Ca²⁺-ATPases (SERCA2b and SERCA3). On thrombin stimulation, nicotinic acid adenosine dinucleotide phosphate mobilizes SERCA3-dependent stores, inducing early adenosine 5'-diphosphate (ADP) secretion, potentiating later SERCA2b-dependent secretion.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to identify which ADP P2 purinergic receptor (P2Y1 and/or P2Y12) is(are) involved in the amplification of platelet secretion dependent on the SERCA3-dependent Ca²⁺ mobilization pathway (SERCA3 stores mobilization) as triggered by low concentration of thrombin.

Methods

The study used the pharmacologic antagonists MRS2719 and AR-C69931MX, of the P2Y1 and P2Y12, respectively, as well as Serca3 ^-/- mice and mice exhibiting platelet lineage-specific inactivation of the P2Y1 or P2Y12 genes.

Results

We found that in mouse platelets, pharmacological blockade or gene inactivation of P2Y12 but not of P2Y1 led to a marked inhibition of ADP secretion after platelet stimulation with low concentration of thrombin. Likewise, in human platelets, pharmacological inhibition of P2Y12 but not of P2Y1 alters amplification of thrombin-elicited secretion through SERCA2b stores mobilization. Finally, we show that early SERCA3 stores secretion of ADP is a dense granule secretion, based on parallel adenosine triphosphate and serotonin early secretion. Furthermore, early secretion involves a single granule, based on the amount of adenosine triphosphate released.

Conclusion

Altogether, these results show that at low concentrations of thrombin, SERCA3- and SERCA2b-dependent Ca²⁺ mobilization pathways cross-talk via ADP and activation of the P2Y12, and not the P2Y1 ADP receptor. The relevance in hemostasis of the coupling of the SERCA3 and the SERCA2b pathways is reviewed.

Calcium sequestration by human platelet acidic organelles is regulated by the actin cytoskeleton and autocrine 5-hydroxytryptamine

Human platelets regulate agonist-evoked Ca²⁺ signalling through Ca²⁺ release from and sequestration into acidic organelles. Previous studies have pharmacologically characterised the presence of a Ca²⁺-H⁺ exchanger in these organelles. This exchanger appears to regulate a secondary plateau phase in agonist-evoked cytosolic Ca²⁺ signals in fura-2-loaded human platelets. Here we demonstrate that cytochalasin D treatment removes the secondary plateau in ADP-evoked Ca²⁺ signals elicited in the absence of external Ca²⁺. This effect was reversed by pretreatment with nigericin, a K⁺/H⁺ exchanger that short-circuits the Ca²⁺-H⁺ exchanger. Using Fluo-5N- or Lysosensor Green-loaded cells, cytochalasin D was found to enhance Ca²⁺ sequestration into acidic organelles by preventing their alkalinisation. Additional experiments demonstrated that ADP-evoked alkalinisation of acidic organelles and subsequent slowing of acidic organellar Ca²⁺ sequestration was mediated by autocrine 5-HT signalling. Enhancing this 5-HT signalling using fluoxetine overcame the inhibitory effect of cytochalasin D on ADP-evoked Ca²⁺ signals, indicating that cytochalasin D interferes with 5-HT autocrine signalling. The ability of Cytochalasin D to interfere with autocrine 5-HT signalling was downstream of the 5-HT_2A receptor as secretion of [³H]-5-HT from ADP-stimulated human platelets was not reduced. These data provide the first evidence that the pH gradient across acidic organelles is dynamically regulated upon human platelet activation, and that this can play a significant role in controlling human platelet function by modulating Ca²⁺-H⁺ exchange and so [Ca²⁺]_i.

NAADP/SERCA3-Dependent Ca2+ Stores Pathway Specifically Controls Early Autocrine ADP Secretion Potentiating Platelet Activation

RATIONALE

Ca²⁺ signaling is a key and ubiquitous actor of cell organization and its modulation controls many cellular responses. SERCAs (sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-ATPases) pump Ca²⁺ into internal stores that play a major role in the cytosolic Ca²⁺ concentration rise upon cell activation. Platelets exhibit 2 types of SERCAs, SERCA2b and SERCA3 (SERCA3 deficient mice), which may exert specific roles, yet ill-defined. We have recently shown that Ca²⁺ mobilization from SERCA3-dependent stores was required for full platelet activation in weak stimulation conditions.

OBJECTIVE

To uncover the signaling mechanisms associated with Ca²⁺ mobilization from SERCA3-dependent stores leading to ADP secretion.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using platelets from wild-type or Serca3-deficient mice, we demonstrated that an early (within 5-10 s following stimulation) secretion of ADP specifically dependent on SERCA3 stored Ca²⁺ is exclusively mobilized by nicotinic acid adenosine dinucleotide-phosphate (NAADP): both Ca²⁺ mobilization from SERCA3-dependent stores and primary ADP secretion are blocked by the NAADP receptor antagonist Ned-19, and reciprocally both are stimulated by permeant NAADP. In contrast, Ca²⁺ mobilization from SERCA3-dependent stores and primary ADP secretion were unaffected by inhibition of the production of IP3 (inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate) by phospholipase-C and accordingly were not stimulated by permeant IP3.

CONCLUSIONS

Upon activation, an NAADP/SERCA3 Ca²⁺ mobilization pathway initiates an early ADP secretion, potentiating platelet activation, and a secondary wave of ADP secretion driven by both an IP3/SERCA2b-dependent Ca²⁺ stores pathway and the NAADP/SERCA3 pathway. This does not exclude that Ca²⁺ mobilized from SERCA3 stores may also enhance platelet global reactivity to agonists. Because of its modulating effect on platelet activation, this NAADP-SERCA3 pathway may be a relevant target for anti-thrombotic therapy. Graphic Abstract: A graphic abstract is available for this article.

Sarco/Endoplasmic Reticulum Calcium ATPase Inhibitors: Beyond Anticancer Perspective

The sarco/endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase (SERCA), which plays a key role in the maintenance of Ca²⁺ ion homeostasis, is an extensively studied enzyme, the inhibition of which has a considerable impact on cell life and death decision. To date, several SERCA inhibitors have been thoroughly studied and the most notable one, a derivative of the sesquiterpene lactone thapsigargin, is gradually approaching a clinical application. Meanwhile, new compounds with SERCA-inhibiting properties of natural, synthetic, or semisynthetic origin are being discovered and/or developed; some of these might also be suitable for the development of new drugs with improved performance. This review brings an up-to-date comprehensive overview of recently discovered compounds with the potential of SERCA inhibition, discusses their mechanism of action, and highlights their potential clinical applications, such as cancer treatment.

Mechanism underlying N-(3-oxo-dodecanoyl)-L-homoserine lactone mediated intracellular calcium mobilization in human platelets

Acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs), are the key autoinducer molecules that mediate Pseudomonas aeruginosa associated quorum sensing. P. aeruginosa produces two types of AHLs; N-(3-oxododecanoyl)-L-homoserine lactone (3-oxo-C₁₂ HSL) and N-butyryl-L-homoserine lactone (C4 HSL). AHLs are not only regulating the virulence gene of bacteria but also influence the host cell functions by interkingdom signaling. In this study, we explored the mechanism of AHLs induced calcium mobilization in human platelets. We found that 3-oxo-C₁₂ HSL but not C4 HSL induces intracellular calcium release. 3-oxo-C₁₂ HSL induced calcium mobilization was majorly contributed from the dense tubular system (DTS). Furthermore, 3-oxo-C₁₂ HSL also stimulates the store-operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE) in platelet. Intracellular calcium rise was significantly lowered in rotenone, and bafilomycin pre-treated platelets suggesting partial involvement of mitochondria and acidic vacuoles. The significant effect of 3-oxo-C₁₂ HSL on calcium mobilization can alter the platelet functions that might results in thrombotic disorders in individuals infected with P. aeruginosa.

Store-operated calcium entry in thrombosis and thrombo-inflammation

Cytosolic free calcium (Ca²⁺) is a second messenger regulating a wide variety of functions in blood cells, including adhesion, activation, proliferation and migration. Store-operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE), triggered by depletion of Ca²⁺ from the endoplasmic reticulum, provides a main mechanism of regulated Ca²⁺ influx in blood cells. SOCE is mediated and regulated by isoforms of the ion channel proteins ORAI and TRP, and the transmembrane Ca²⁺ sensors stromal interaction molecules (STIMs), respectively. This report provides an overview of the (patho)physiological importance of SOCE in blood cells implicated in thrombosis and thrombo-inflammation, i.e. platelets and immune cells. We also discuss the physiological consequences of dysregulated SOCE in platelets and immune cells and the potential of SOCE inhibition as a therapeutic option to prevent or treat arterial thrombosis as well as thrombo-inflammatory disease states such as ischemic stroke.

Full activation of mouse platelets requires ADP secretion regulated by SERCA3 ATPase-dependent calcium stores

The role of the sarco-endoplasmic reticulum calcium (Ca(2+)) adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) 3 (SERCA3) in platelet physiology remains poorly understood. Here, we show that SERCA3 knockout (SERCA3(-/-)) mice exhibit prolonged tail bleeding time and rebleeding. Thrombus formation was delayed both in arteries and venules in an in vivo ferric chloride-induced thrombosis model. Defective platelet adhesion and thrombus growth over collagen was confirmed in vitro. Adenosine 5'-diphosphate (ADP) removal by apyrase diminished adhesion and thrombus growth of control platelets to the level of SERCA3(-/-) platelets. Aggregation, dense granule secretion, and Ca(2+) mobilization of SERCA3(-/-) platelets induced by low collagen or low thrombin concentration were weaker than controls. Accordingly, SERCA3(-/-) platelets exhibited a partial defect in total stored Ca(2+) and in Ca(2+) store reuptake following thrombin stimulation. Importantly ADP, but not serotonin, rescued aggregation, secretion, and Ca(2+) mobilization in SERCA3(-/-) platelets, suggesting specificity. Dense granules appeared normal upon electron microscopy, mepacrine staining, and total serotonin content, ruling out a dense granule defect. ADP induced normal platelet aggregation, excluding a defect in ADP activation pathways. The SERCA3-specific inhibitor 2,5-di-(tert-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone diminished both Ca(2+) mobilization and secretion of control platelets, as opposed to the SERCA2b inhibitor thapsigargin. This confirmed the specific role of catalytically active SERCA3 in ADP secretion. Accordingly, SERCA3-dependent Ca(2+) stores appeared depleted in SERCA3(-/-) platelets. Finally, αIIbβ3 integrin blockade did not affect SERCA3-dependent secretion, therefore proving independent of αIIbβ3 engagement. Altogether, these results show that SERCA3-dependent Ca(2+) stores control a specific ADP secretion pathway required for full platelet secretion induced by agonists at low concentration and independent of αIIbβ3.

Optimisation of recombinant production of active human cardiac SERCA2a ATPase

Methods for recombinant production of eukaryotic membrane proteins, yielding sufficient quantity and quality of protein for structural biology, remain a challenge. We describe here, expression and purification optimisation of the human SERCA2a cardiac isoform of Ca(2+) translocating ATPase, using Saccharomyces cerevisiae as the heterologous expression system of choice. Two different expression vectors were utilised, allowing expression of C-terminal fusion proteins with a biotinylation domain or a GFP- His8 tag. Solubilised membrane fractions containing the protein of interest were purified onto Streptavidin-Sepharose, Ni-NTA or Talon resin, depending on the fusion tag present. Biotinylated protein was detected using specific antibody directed against SERCA2 and, advantageously, GFP-His8 fusion protein was easily traced during the purification steps using in-gel fluorescence. Importantly, talon resin affinity purification proved more specific than Ni-NTA resin for the GFP-His8 tagged protein, providing better separation of oligomers present, during size exclusion chromatography. The optimised method for expression and purification of human cardiac SERCA2a reported herein, yields purified protein (> 90%) that displays a calcium-dependent thapsigargin-sensitive activity and is suitable for further biophysical, structural and physiological studies. This work provides support for the use of Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a suitable expression system for recombinant production of multi-domain eukaryotic membrane proteins.

Human platelet Ca2+-ATPases: New markers of cell differentiation as illustrated in idiopathic scoliosis

The aetiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), the most common form of scoliosis, is unclear. Previous studies showed controversial platelet abnormalities including intracellular calcium. Platelet Ca2+ homeostasis is controlled by a multi-Ca2+-ATPase system including SERCA (sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase) and PMCA (plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase) isoforms. Here, we first investigated the expression of PMCA4b, SERCA3a and SERCA2b isoforms in platelets of 17 patients with AIS. Patients presenting thoracic curves were found to present a higher PMCA4b expression coupled to a lower SERCA3a one in agreement with an abnormality in platelet maturation. Indeed, using PMA-treated MEG 01 cells, an in vitro model of megakaryocytopoiesis, we found an increase in SERCA3a expression, associated to a caspase-3 mediated C terminal proteolysis of PMCA4b. To look whether platelets reflect a basic defect in cell differentiation, we next identified osteoblast Ca2+-ATPases and studied their expressions in AIS. Major expressions of PMCA4b and SERCA2b were found in normal osteoblasts. Comparing platelets and osteoblasts in two additional patients with AIS, we found opposite and concerted regulations of the expressions of PMCA4b and caspase-3 substrate, PARP in both cell types. A systemic defect in cell differentiation involving caspase-3 can be proposed as a novel mechanism in the etiopathogenesis of the most frequent type of AIS. *R. Bredoux and E. Corvazier contributed equally to this work.

How many Ca2+ATPase isoforms are expressed in a cell type? A growing family of membrane proteins illustrated by studies in platelets

Ca(2+) signaling plays a key role in normal and abnormal platelet functions. Understanding platelet Ca(2+) signaling requires the knowledge of proteins involved in this process. Among these proteins are Ca(2+)ATPases or Ca(2+) pumps that deplete the cytosol of Ca(2+) ions. Here, we will particularly focus on two Ca(2+) pump families: the plasma membrane Ca(2+)ATPases (PMCAs) that extrude cytosolic Ca(2+) towards the extracellular medium and the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)ATPases (SERCAs) that pump Ca(2+) into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). In the present review, we will summarize data on platelet Ca(2+)ATPases including their identification and biogenesis. First of all, we will present the Ca(2+)ATPase genes and their isoforms expressed in platelets. We will especially focus on a member of the SERCA family, SERCA3, recently found to give rise to a number of species-specific isoforms. Next, we will describe the differences in Ca(2+)ATPase patterns observed in human and rat platelets. Last, we will analyze how the expression of Ca(2+)ATPase isoforms changes during megakaryocytic maturation and show that megakaryocytopoiesis is associated with a profound reorganization of the expression and/or activity of Ca(2+)ATPases. Taken together, these data provide new aspects of investigations to better understand normal and abnormal platelet Ca(2+) signaling.

Calcium signaling in platelets

Agonist-induced elevation in cytosolic Ca2+ concentrations is essential for platelet activation in hemostasis and thrombosis. It occurs through Ca2+ release from intracellular stores and Ca2+ entry through the plasma membrane (PM). Ca2+ store release is a well-established process involving phospholipase (PL)C-mediated production of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3), which in turn releases Ca2+ from the intracellular stores through IP3 receptor channels. In contrast, the mechanisms controlling Ca2+ entry and the significance of this process for platelet activation have been elucidated only very recently. In platelets, as in other non-excitable cells, the major way of Ca2+ entry involves the agonist-induced release of cytosolic sequestered Ca2+ followed by Ca2+ influx through the PM, a process referred to as store-operated calcium entry (SOCE). It is now clear that stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), a Ca2+ sensor molecule in intracellular stores, and the four transmembrane channel protein Orai1 are the key players in platelet SOCE. The other major Ca2+ entry mechanism is mediated by the direct receptor-operated calcium (ROC) channel, P2X1. Besides these, canonical transient receptor potential channel (TRPC) 6 mediates Ca2+ entry through the PM. This review summarizes the current knowledge of platelet Ca2+ homeostasis with a focus on the newly identified Ca2+ entry mechanisms.

STIM1 regulates acidic Ca2+ store refilling by interaction with SERCA3 in human platelets

Ca(2+) mobilization regulates a wide variety of cellular functions. Platelets possess agonist-releasable Ca(2+) stores in acidic organelles where sarcoendoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase-3 (SERCA) pump is involved in store refilling. Stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), which has been presented as a central regulator of platelet function, is a Ca(2+) sensor of the intracellular Ca(2+) stores. Here we present that STIM1 is required for acidic store refilling. Electrotransjection of cells with anti-STIM1 (Y(231)-K(243)) antibody, directed towards a cytoplasmic sequence of STIM1, significantly reduced acidic store refilling, which was tested by remobilizing Ca(2+) from the acidic stores using 2,5-di-(t-butyl)-1,4-hydroquinone (TBHQ) after a brief refilling period that followed thrombin stimulation. Platelet treatment with thrombin or thapsigargin in combination with ionomycin, to induce extensive Ca(2+) store depletion, resulted in a transient increase in the interaction between STIM1 and SERCA3, reaching a maximum 30 s after stimulation. The coupling between STIM1 and SERCA3 was abolished by electrotransjection with anti-STIM1 antibody. The interaction between STIM1 and SERCA3 induced by thrombin or by treatment with thapsigargin plus ionomycin is reduced in platelets from type 2 diabetic patients, as well as Ca(2+) reuptake into the acidic Ca(2+) stores. These findings provide evidence for a role of STIM1 in acidic store refilling in platelets probably acting as a Ca(2+) sensor and regulating the activity of SERCA3. This action is impaired in platelets from type 2 diabetics, which might lead to the enhanced cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration observed and, therefore, in platelet hyperactivity.

Platelet PMCA- and SERCA-type Ca2+ -ATPase expression in diabetes: a novel signature of abnormal megakaryocytopoiesis

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have shown platelet Ca(2+) abnormalities in diabetes mellitus and some reports suggest abnormal platelet production. Platelet Ca(2+) homeostasis is controlled by a multi-Ca(2+)-ATPase system that includes two plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase (PMCA) and seven sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA) isoforms. In addition, we recently found that the expression of PMCA4b and SERCA3 isoforms may serve as new markers of abnormal megakaryocytopoiesis [Nurden P et al. Impaired megakaryocytopoiesis in type 2B von Willebrand disease with severe thrombocytopenia. Blood 2006; 108: 2587-95].

AIM

To analyze the expression of major platelet Ca(2+)-ATPases in 27 patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes (T1D or T2D) compared with normal donors.

METHODS

Investigation of protein and mRNA expressions of PMCA1b and PMCA4b, and SERCA2b, SERCA3a and SERCA3b, using specific Western blotting and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, respectively.

RESULTS

Remarkably, all patients with T1D were found to present a higher expression of PMCA4b protein (212% +/- 28%; n = 10) and PMCA4b mRNA (155% +/- 16%; n = 17), coupled with a higher expression of SERCA3b mRNA (165% +/- 9%) in some cases. Patients with T2D (n = 10) were also studied for protein expression and were found to present similar major upregulation of the expression of PMCA4b protein (180% +/- 28%; n = 10). Lastly, five of 10 patients with T1D were studied for PMCA4b expression after insulin treatment, with four of five recovering normal expression (96% +/- 15%; n = 5).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with the expression of PMCA4b upon platelet maturation, platelets from diabetic patients exhibit similarities with immature megakaryocytes. Thus, this study reinforces the idea that abnormal megakaryocytopoiesis can provide additional insights into diabetes and could represent a novel therapeutic target for antithrombotic drugs.

Biogenesis of endoplasmic reticulum proteins involved in Ca2+ signalling during megakaryocytic differentiation: an in vitro study

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) plays a key role in Ca(2+) signalling through Ca(2+) release via inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (InsP(3)-Rs) and Ca(2+) uptake by sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPases (SERCAs). Here, we investigated the organization of platelet ER and its biogenesis during megakaryocytopoiesis. First, erythro/megakaryoblastic MEG 01, UT7, M-O7e and CHRF 288-11 cell lines, platelets and thrombopoietin-induced UT7-Mpl cells were selected for the study of SERCA2b and SERCA3 proteins by Western blotting using the antibodies IID8 and PL/IM430, respectively. As judged by platelet glycoprotein IIIa (GPIIIa) expression, an increase in SERCA3 proteins was observed while that of SERCA2b remained unchanged throughout maturation. Second, these studies were extended to the newly described alternatively spliced SERCA3a-c RNAs and InsP(3)-Rs using the in vitro model of PMA-induced differentiation of MEG 01 cells. Time-course and dose-response studies showed a maximal approx. 4-fold up-regulation of SERCA3 proteins using 10(-8) M PMA for 3 days, which paralleled induction of GPIIIa expression. SERCA3 induction was found to occur at the level of mRNA. The modulation of the different SERCA3 species (i.e. 3a, 3b and 3c) was isoform-specific: while SERCA3a was slightly increased, an approx. 3-fold induction of SERCA3b, and a 4-fold induction of SERCA3c, was observed after 24 h of PMA treatment. Isoform-specific Western blotting and/or reverse transcriptase PCR studies showed that InsP(3)-R types I, II and III are expressed in MEG 01 cells, as well as in platelets. Study of the expression of these InsP(3)-R types in PMA-induced MEG 01 cells revealed that: (i) InsP(3)-RI protein and mRNA showed no changes; (ii) InsP(3)-RII mRNA was up-regulated and peaked at hour 48 and (iii) InsP(3)-RIII mRNA and protein showed a transitory maximal 3- and 2.3-fold increase at hours 6 and 30, respectively. Upon PMA treatment of CHRF 288-11 cells, in which GPIIIa is not induced upon treatment, a similar pattern of regulation of InsP(3)-R types II and III was seen, but a distinct pattern of SERCA3 regulation was observed. These results suggest a profound reorganization of ER-protein patterns during megakaryocytopoiesis and underline the role of SERCA3 gene regulation in the control of Ca(2+)-dependent platelet functions.

Platelet Ca(2+)ATPases : a plural, species-specific, and multiple hypertension-regulated expression system

Gaining insight into nonmuscle Ca(2+) signaling requires basic knowledge of the major structures involved. We investigated the expression of platelet Ca(2+)ATPases in normal and hypertension-associated abnormal Ca(2+) signaling. First, overall identification of normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rat Ca(2+)ATPases was attempted by looking for newly described human platelet 3'-end alternatively spliced sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)ATPases (SERCA) 3b mRNA and plasma membrane Ca(2+)ATPase (PMCA) 1b and 4b proteins, in addition to SERCA2b and SERCA3a isoforms. For SERCAs, comparative analyses of human and Wistar-Kyoto rat SERCA3 platelet mRNA by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) followed by sequencing established that human platelets coexpressed SERCA3b and a third SERCA3c, while rat cells were devoid of them but expressed a still unknown splice variant that we termed rSERCA3b/3c. Its identification using 3'-end SERCA3 gene and rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE)-PCR studies showed that it results from an additional SERCA3 alternative splicing process, which uses a second alternative polyadenylation site located in the last intron. For PMCAs, with the use of gene-specific RT-PCR followed by sequencing and Western blotting using 5F10 monoclonal antibody, expression of human and rat platelet PMCA1b and PMCA4b was similar. Second, comparative analysis of these newly identified Ca(2+)ATPases and SERCA3a in age-matched spontaneously hypertensive rat platelets demonstrated (1) a marked downregulation of rSERCA3b/3c, which became null, and a 1.71-fold increase in SERCA3a and (2) an opposite regulation of the 2 PMCAs, namely, a 3.3-fold decrease in PMCA1b mRNA and a 3.7-fold increase in PMCA4b mRNA. Hence, platelets coexpress multiple, diverse, and species-specific Ca(2+)ATPases, including a novel fourth SERCA3. Moreover, expression of PMCA (1b and 4b), SERCA3a, and rSERCA3b/3c was modulated in rat hypertension. Hence, Ca(2+)ATPases should be regarded as constituting a new rational basis for the understanding of nonmuscle cell Ca(2+) signaling.

Ca(2+) release and heat production by the endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase of blood platelets. Effect of the platelet activating factor

Different sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPases isoforms are found in blood platelets and in skeletal muscle. The amount of heat produced during ATP hydrolysis by vesicles derived from the endoplasmic reticulum of blood platelets was the same in the absence and presence of a transmembrane Ca(2+) gradient. Addition of platelets activating factor (PAF) to the medium promoted both a Ca(2+) efflux that was arrested by thapsigargin and an increase of the yield of heat produced during ATP hydrolysis. The calorimetric enthalpy of ATP hydrolysis (DeltaH(cal)) measured during Ca(2+) transport varied between -10 and -12 kcal/mol without PAF and between -20 and -24 kcal/mol with 4 microM PAF. Different from platelets, in skeletal muscle vesicles a thapsigargin-sensitive Ca(2+) efflux and a high heat production during ATP hydrolysis were measured without PAF and the DeltaH(cal) varied between -10 and -12 kcal/mol in the absence of Ca(2+) and between -22 up to -32 kcal/mol after formation of a transmembrane Ca(2+) gradient. PAF did not enhance the rate of thapsigargin-sensitive Ca(2+) efflux nor increase the yield of heat produced during ATP hydrolysis. These findings indicate that the platelets of Ca(2+)-ATPase isoforms are only able to convert osmotic energy into heat in the presence of PAF.

Calcium efflux from platelet vesicles of the dense tubular system. Analysis of the possible contribution of the Ca2+ pump

The ATP dependent Ca2+ uptake of platelet vesicles was inhibited by the two hydrophobic drugs trifluoperazine (TFP) and propranolol (PROP). Inhibition was significantly lowered when Pi was used instead of oxalate as a precipitant agent. When the ATPase ligands substrate (Mg2+ and Pi) were absent of the efflux medium, a slow release of Ca2+ which did not couple with ATP synthesis (passive Ca2+ efflux) was observed. Both, TFP and PROP enhanced the passive Ca2+ efflux. This enhanced efflux was partially inhibited only when Mg2+ and Pi were added together to the efflux reaction media, but it was not affected by spermidine, ruthenium red or thapsigargin (TG). The Ca2+ ionophores A23187 and ionomycin, also enhanced passive Ca2+ efflux. However, in this case, Ca2+ efflux was inhibited just by inclusion of Mg2+ to the medium. Ca2+ efflux promoted by Triton X-100 was not affected by either Mg2+ or Pi, included together or separately into the efflux medium. The ATP <==> Pi measured in the presence of Triton X-100 and millimolar Ca2+ concentrations was inhibited by both TFP and PROP, but not by Ca2+ ionophores up to 4 microM. The data suggest that the observed enhancement of passive Ca2+ efflux promoted by TFP and PROP could be attributed to a direct effect of these drugs over the platelet Ca2+ pump isoforms (Sarco Endoplasmic Reticulum Calcium ATPase, SERCA2b and SERCA3) themselves, as it was reported for the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA1).

Expression of hPMCA4b, the major form of the plasma membrane calcium pump in megakaryoblastoid cells is greatly reduced in mature human platelets

Antibodies 5F10 and JA3 (raised against the erythrocyte Ca2+ pump) were used to identify hPMCA4b as the major form of the plasma membrane Ca2+ pump in human platelets and in three human megakaryoblastoid cell lines, MEG 01, DAMI and CHRF 288-11. 5F10 was used because it has been shown to recognize all known isoforms of the hPMCA and JA3 because it reacts exclusively with hPMCA4b [Caride A.J., Filoteo A.G., Enyedi A., Verma A.K., Penniston J.T. Detection of isoform 4 of the plasma membrane calcium pump in human tissues by using isoform-specific monoclonal antibodies. Biochem J 1996; 316: 353-359]. In addition to hPMCA4b, hPMCA1b was also detected in the megakaryoblastoid cells by using isoform-specific polyclonal antibodies. The apparent size of this isoform, however, was smaller than that seen in HeLa and COS-7 cell membranes indicating the presence of a modified form of hPMCA1b. In platelets, no evidence of the expression of hPMCA1b could be found. The amount of PMCA in these cells was compared with that of the constitutive form of the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump in non-muscle cells (SERCA2b) and also with the amount of PMCA in human erythrocytes. A very low level of the plasma membrane Ca2+ pump was found in platelets while in their precursor cells the expression of this Ca2+ pump was much more abundant. Whereas the expression level of PMCA decreased dramatically in mature human platelets, the expression of SERCA2b did not change substantially upon megakaryocytic differentiation.

Inter-individual variability in Ca2+ signalling in platelets from healthy volunteers: effects of aspirin and relationship with expression of endomembrane Ca2+-ATPases

Increased Ca2+ signal generation may lead to hyperactivity of platelets and contribute to thrombotic complications. Using fura-2-loaded platelets from 51 healthy volunteers, high variability was detected in the Ca2+ responses evoked by the receptor agonists, thrombin and collagen, and the inhibitor of sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPases (SERCA), thapsigargin (Tg). Oral intake of 500mg aspirin reduced the magnitude of the Ca2+ responses, and lowered the intra-individual coefficients of variance of the responses by 50%. However, the corresponding inter-individual variance coefficients were only a little influenced by aspirin intake, pointing to subject-dependent factors in Ca2+ handling that are unrelated to thromboxane formation. With each agonist, 6-9% of the subjects had platelets with relatively high Ca2+ responses (> mean + SD) both before and after aspirin intake. In 90% (9/10) of these cases the high responsiveness was confirmed in platelets obtained 6-12 months later. The Tg- but not thrombin-induced Ca2+ responses correlated inversely with the expression levels of SERCA PL/IM 430 (SERCA-3b) in platelets. After aspirin intake, the Ca2+ responses with collagen but not thrombin correlated inversely with SERCA-2b expression. These results suggest that, in the absence of potentiating effects of thromboxane, (i) the amount of PL/IM 430-recognizable SERCA may control the Ca2+ signal when SERCA-2b is specifically inhibited (with Tg), and (ii) the expression of SERCA-2b determine the collagen- but not the thrombin-evoked Ca2+ signal. Accordingly, limited Ca2+-pumping activity by low expression of one of the SERCA isoforms is likely to be one of the factors resulting in increased platelet activity towards collagen or thapsigargin but not thrombin.

Platelet sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ATPase isoform 3b and Rap 1b: interrelation and regulation in physiopathology

Platelet Ca2+ signalling involves intracellular Ca2+ pools, whose content is controlled by sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ATPases (SERCAs). Among these, a key role is played by the inositol trisphosphate-sensitive Ca2+ pool, associated with the SERCA 3b isoform. We have investigated the control of this Ca2+ pool through the cAMP-dependent phosphorylation of the GTP-binding protein, Rap (Ras-proximate) 1b. We first looked for this Ca2+ pool target of regulation by studying the expression of the different SERCA and Rap 1 proteins in human platelets and various cell lines, by Western blotting and reverse transcription-PCR. Since co-expression of Rap 1b and SERCA 3b was obtained, we looked for their protein-protein interaction as a function of the cAMP-dependent phosphorylation of Rap 1b. Co-immunoprecipitations of SERCA 3b and Rap 1b proteins were found in the absence of phosphorylation, induced by the catalytic subunit of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (csPKA). In contrast, upon pre-treatment of platelet membranes with csPKA, the SERCA 3b dissociated from the Rap 1b protein, in agreement with a role of its phosphorylated state in their interaction. Finally, we looked for adaptation of this complex in a platelet pathological model of hypertension. We investigated the expression of both proteins, as well as the cAMP-dependent phosphorylation of Rap 1b and SERCA 3b activity in platelets from control normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats and from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). A decrease in SERCA 3b activity was associated with a decrease in Rap 1b endogenous phosphorylation in SHR platelets, consistent with a functional role in the regulation of the SERCA 3b-associated Ca2+ pool.

A tool coming of age: thapsigargin as an inhibitor of sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPases

Thapsigargin is the most widely used inhibitor of the ubiquitous sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPases in mammalian cells. Over the past ten years, this guaianolide compound of plant origin has become a popular tool in a host of studies directed at elucidating the mechanisms of intracellular Ca2+ signalling. Its remarkable potency and selectivity have been instrumental in widening our view of the function of intracellular Ca2+ stores to include such key aspects as store-operated Ca2+ entry or the involvement of the stores in protein synthesis or cell growth. In this article Marek Treiman, Casper Caspersen and Søren Brøgger Christensen review the key pharmacological features of thapsigargin action; they also discuss some of the ways in which its unique properties have shown to be important for obtaining new insights into the biology of Ca2+ stores, and how these properties might encompass a therapeutic potential. In parallel, attention is drawn to some of the limitations and pitfalls encountered when working with thapsigargin.

Expression of two isoforms of the third sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA3) in platelets. Possible recognition of the SERCA3b isoform by the PL/IM430 monoclonal antibody

Human platelets express several sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA) isoenzymes: SERCA2b of 100 kDa apparent molecular mass and two distinct enzymes of 97 kDa, one of them identified as being the SERCA3a isoform. The molecular identity of the third enzyme specifically recognized by the PL/IM430 monoclonal antibody has remained elusive. First, the study of the 3'-end part of platelet SERCA3 mRNA, by means of RT-PCR amplification using sets of primers covering the N-3 to N (ultimate) exons of the human SERCA3 sequence, revealed the presence of two distinct mRNA sequences, SERCA3a and a longer variant. Second, this additional sequence was identified as SERCA3b and found to refer to the insertion of a new exon of 73 bp, located at bp 349 from the beginning of the intronic sequence, linking the penultimate (N-1) exon to the last exon (N) of the human SERCA3 gene. Third, a relationship between the expression of this SERCA3b mRNA and the PL/ IM430 recognizable SERCA protein was observed. SERCA3b mRNA was found to be absent in epithelial HeLa cells not recognized by the PL/IM430 antibody and the expression of this SERCA3b RNA species correlated with that of the SERCA protein recognized by PL/IM430 which was down-modulated in the platelet precursor megakaryocytic CHRF 288-11 cell line as well as upon in vitro lymphocyte activation. Taken together, these results strongly support the notion of the presence of the SERCA3b protein in human cells by showing SERCA3b mRNA in platelets and the fact that the protein corresponding to this mRNA species is very likely the 97 kDa protein recognized by the PL/IM430 antibody.

Inhibition of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-induced Ca2+ release by cAMP-dependent protein kinase in a living cell

Interaction of intracellular free calcium ([Ca2+]i) and cAMP signaling mechanisms was examined in intact single megakaryocytes by using a combination of single-cell fluorescence microscopy to measure [Ca2+]i and flash photolysis of caged Ca2+, inositol 1,4, 5-trisphosphate (IP3), or cAMP to elevate rapidly the concentration of these compounds inside the cell. Photolysis of caged IP3 stimulated Ca2+ release from an IP3-sensitive store. The cAMP-elevating agent carbacyclin inhibited this IP3-induced rise in [Ca2+]i but did not affect the rate of Ca2+ removal from the cytoplasm after photolysis of caged Ca2+. Photolysis of caged cAMP during ADP-induced [Ca2+]i oscillations caused the [Ca2+]i oscillation to transiently cease without affecting the rate of Ca2+ uptake and/or extrusion. We conclude that the principal mechanism of cAMP-dependent inhibition of Ca2+ mobilization in megakaryocytes appears to be by inhibition of IP3-induced Ca2+ release and not by stimulation of Ca2+ removal from the cytoplasm. Two inhibitors of cAMP-dependent protein kinase, a specific peptide inhibitor of the catalytic subunit of cAMP protein kinase and KT5720, blocked the inhibitory effect of carbacyclin, indicating that the inhibition of IP3-induced Ca2+-release by carbacyclin is mediated by cAMP-dependent protein kinase.

Ca2+ in the dense tubules: a model of platelet Ca2+ load

In this work, we explored the relationship between the freely exchangeable Ca2+ (FECa2+) in the dense tubules (DT) and the sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum (SER) Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) in circulating human platelets and examined the relationship between blood pressure (BP) and these platelet parameters. Studying platelets from 32 healthy men, we showed that the maximal reaction velocity (Vmax) of the SERCA significantly correlated with FECa2+ in the DT and with the protein expressions of SERCA 2 and 3. BP positively correlated with both the Vmax of the SERCA (r=.462, P=.010) and the FECa2+ sequestered in the DT (r=.492, P=.005). The relationships between these platelet Ca2+ parameters and BP were in part confounded by increased levels of serum triglycerides and diminished HDL cholesterol with a higher BP. No correlation was observed between the resting cytosolic Ca2+ and BP. Collectively, these findings indicate that (1) an increase in the cellular Ca2+ load in platelets is expressed by a higher activity of the SERCA and an increase in the expressions of SERCA 2 and 3 proteins, coupled with an increase in the FECa2+ in the DT, and (2) a higher BP is associated with an increase in platelet Ca2+ load in human beings, expressed by a rise in the FECa2+ in the DT and the upregulation of SERCA activity.

A role for protein phosphorylation in modulating Ca2+ elevation in rabbit platelets treated with thapsigargin

The effect of modifying protein kinase and phosphatase activity on Ca2+ influx induced by inhibition of Ca(2+)-ATPase activity has been investigated in rabbit platelets. Activation of protein kinase C (PKC) with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) or inhibition of phosphatase type 1/2A (PP1/2A) activity with calyculin A caused a dose-dependent inhibition of cytosolic Ca2+ elevation in thapsigargin (Tg)-treated platelets and decreased Ca2+ influx into platelets at a time when Ca2+ channels had already been opened by pretreatment of cells with Tg. In addition, both activation of PKC and inhibition of PP1/2A activity caused a dose-dependent inhibition of bivalent cation (Mn2+) influx (acting as a surrogate for Ca2+ influx) in Tg-treated platelets. Inhibition of cyclo-oxygenase activity caused a small decrease in [Ca2+]i elevation in Tg-treated platelets, but had no effect on the ability of PMA or calyculin A to inhibit Tg-induced [Ca2+]i elevation Unexpectedly, PMA inhibited Tg-induced [Ca2+]i elevation in the absence of extracellular Ca2+, and in agreement calyculin A decreased [Ca2+]i elevation almost to basal levels. The results from this study were confirmed with another Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor, namely 2,5-di(tert-butyl)hydroquinone (tBHQ). These findings therefore suggest that modification of phosphorylation of target protein(s) on serine/threonine amino acid residues plays a role in the regulation of both Ca2+ influx and in the filling state of the intracellular Ca2+ pool in platelets treated with Tg.

Ethanol has different effects on Ca(2+)-transport ATPases of muscle, brain and blood platelets

The effects of ethanol on different sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-transport ATPases (SERCAs) were studied. In sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles, ethanol concentrations varying from 5 to 20% promoted a progressive inhibition of Ca2+ uptake, enhancement of Ca2+ efflux, activation of the ATPase activity, increase of the enzyme phosphorylation by ATP and inhibition of enzyme phosphorylation by P1. The effects of ethanol on Ca2+ uptake and Ca2+ efflux were antagonized by Mg2+, P(i) and spermine. The increased efflux promoted by ethanol was antagonized by Ca2+ and thapsigargin. In brain and platelet vesicles a biphasic effect of ethanol was observed, so that activation occurred at low concentrations (5-10%) and inhibition at higher concentrations. The activation was not observed with the use of n-propanol and n-butanol. Different from the situation in sarcoplasmic reticulum, the decrease of the Ca2+ uptake in brain and platelet vesicles was associated with an inhibition of the ATPase activity. Mg2+ and P(i) antagonized the enhancement of Ca2+ efflux and the inhibition of Ca2+ uptake promoted by ethanol. However, thapsigargin and Ca2+ did not arrest the Ca2+ efflux promoted by ethanol in brain and platelet preparations. These results suggest that, in sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles, ethanol uncouples the pump, promoting its activity as a Ca2+ channel. The SERCA isoform found in skeletal muscle has different properties from the isoforms found in brain and blood platelets.

Isolation of subcellular agonist-sensitive calcium stores from the pancreatic acinar cell

The purpose of the present study was to develop a technique to identify, isolate and partially purify these membrane bound compartments for further characterizations of their Ca2+ transport and storage mechanisms. We 45Ca(2+)-loaded the agonist-sensitive Ca2+ stores in rat pancreatic acini. The loading was accomplished by first depleting the stores with carbachol stimulation followed by the addition of 45Ca2+ and atropine to the extracellular media. After homogenization of the 45Ca(2+)-loaded acini, subcellular fractions were resolved on sucrose and Nycodenz gradients. 45Ca2+ fluxes were minimized during these procedures by inclusion in the media of LaCl3. Five subcellular fractions were identified that specifically accumulated 45Ca2+ after carbachol stimulation. Electron microscopic observations of the fractions demonstrated that three of the fractions consisted of rough membrane vesicles; that one consisted of a mixture of rough and smooth membrane vesicles; and that one consisted of smooth membrane vesicles. All fractions were enriched in glucose-6-phosphatase. All 5 fractions demonstrated ATP dependent 45Ca2+ uptake. By Western blot analysis, all fractions contained calnexin, p58, sarcoplasmic reticulum type Ca(2+)-ATPase, and IP3 receptor. These results demonstrated that the 45Ca(2+)-loading technique can be used to isolate and characterize distinct compartments of the agonist-sensitive Ca2+ store in the pancreatic acinar cell.

The Ca(2+)-ATPase isoforms of platelets are located in distinct functional Ca2+ pools and are uncoupled by a mechanism different from that of skeletal muscle Ca(2+)-ATPase

Vesicles derived from the dense tubular system of platelets possess a Ca(2+)-ATPase that can use either ATP or acetyl phosphate as a substrate. In the presence of phosphate as a precipitating anion, the maximum amount of Ca2+ accumulated by the vesicles with the use of acetyl phosphate was only one-third of that accumulated with the use of ATP. Vesicles derived from the sarcoplasmic reticulum of skeletal muscle accumulated equal amounts of Ca2+ regardless of the substrate used. When acetyl phosphate was used in platelet vesicles, the transport of Ca2+ was inhibited by Na+, Li+, and K+; in sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles, only Na+ caused inhibition. When ATP was used as substrate, the different monovalent cation had no effect on either sarcoplasmic reticulum or platelet vesicles. The catalytic cycle of the Ca(2+)-ATPase is reversed when a Ca2+ gradient is formed across the vesicle membrane. The stoichiometry between active Ca2+ efflux and ATP synthesis was one in platelet vesicles and two in sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles. The coupling between ATP synthesis and Ca2+ efflux in sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles was abolished by arsenate regardless of whether the vesicles were loaded with Ca2+ using acetyl phosphate or ATP. In platelets, uncoupling was observed only when the vesicles were loaded using acetyl phosphate. In both sarcoplasmic reticulum and platelet vesicles, the effect of arsenate was antagonized by thapsigargin (2 microM), micromolar Ca2+ concentrations, P(i) (5-20 mM), and MgATP (10-100 microM). Trifluoperazine also uncoupled the platelet Ca2+ pump but, different from arsenate, this drug was effective in vesicles that were loaded using either ATP or acetyl phosphate. Trifluoperazine enhanced Ca2+ efflux from both sarcoplasmic reticulum and platelet vesicles; thapsigargin, Ca2+, Mg2+, or K+ antagonized this effect in sarcoplasmic reticulum but not in platelet vesicles. The data indicate that the Ca(2+)-transport isoforms found in sarcoplasmic reticulum and in platelets have different kinetic properties.

Relationship between Rap1 protein phosphorylation and regulation of Ca2+ transport in platelets: a new approach

Although the interrelationship between the two messengers Ca2+ and cyclic AMP in platelet function is well documented, its mechanism of action still remains to be established. We investigated here the question of the regulation of platelet Ca(2+)-ATPases by cyclic AMP through the phosphorylation of the Rap1 protein using a pathological model. We first found experimental conditions where Ca(2+)-transport by platelet membrane vesicles appeared to be dependent on the phosphorylation of the Rap1 protein. Then, we studied platelets of patients with congestive heart failure for their expression of the potential 97 kDa Ca(2+)-ATPase target of regulation through the Rap1 protein as well as the phosphorylation of the Rap1 protein using the catalytic subunit of the cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (C. Sub.). In the first patients studied, we found no significant modification in the expression of the 97 kDa Ca(2+)-ATPase by Western blotting using the PL/IM 430 monoclonal antibody which specifically recognized this isoform. In contrast, the Rap1 protein was differentially phosphorylated when using 15 micrograms/ml of the C. Sub. These results allowed us to use these pathological platelets to study the relationship between the expression of Rap1 protein and the regulation of Ca2+ transport by selecting a patient with severe heart failure. We could show a decrease in the expression as well as in the phosphorylation of Rap1 protein and demonstrate a lower effect of C. Sub. on Ca2+ transport. Finally, by studying a further series of patients, we could confirm that the decrease in Rap1 protein expression in heart failure, whatever its extent, was variable, and could strictly correlate the expression of Rap1 protein with the stimulatory effect of C. Sub. on Ca2+ transport. Besides the evidence for regulation of the expression of the Rap1 protein in platelets from patients with heart failure, these findings constitute a new approach in favour of the regulation of platelet Ca2+ transport through the phosphorylation of the Rap1 protein.

Localization and identification of Ca2+ATPases in highly purified human platelet plasma and intracellular membranes. Evidence that the monoclonal antibody PL/IM 430 recognizes the SERCA 3 Ca2+ATPase in human platelets

The Ca2+ATPase activities of highly purified human platelet membranes prepared by high-voltage free-flow electrophoresis have been analysed by using [gamma-32P]ATP hydrolysis, recognition by antibodies and phosphoenzyme-complex formation. The Ca2+ATPase activity present in mixed membranes was found to be predominantly associated with intracellular membranes after subfractionation, with only a low level of activity associated with plasma membranes. The intracellular-membrane Ca2+ATPase activity was inhibited totally with thapsigargin (Tg), whereas the plasma-membrane Ca2+ATPase was not significantly affected, suggesting that the latter does not belong to the SERCA (sarco-endoplasmic-reticulum Ca2+ATPase) class. A monoclonal antibody, 5F10, raised to the red-cell membrane Ca2+ATPase [Cheng, Magocsi, Cooper, Penniston and Borke (1993) Cell Physiol. Biochem. 4, 31-43] recognized two bands at 135 and 150 kDa in mixed membranes and plasma membranes, and the corresponding bands in red-blood-cell membranes, confirming the Ca2+ATPase to be of the PMCA (plasma-membrane Ca2+ATPase) type. No recognition of any band was detected in intracellular membranes. Identification of the intracellular-membrane Ca2+ATPase activity was carried out with polyclonal antibodies with known specificity towards SERCA 2b (S.2b) and SERCA 3 (N89), and a monoclonal antibody, PL/IM 430, raised against platelet intracellular membranes. All of these antibodies recognized the 100 kDa Ca2+ATPase in mixed membranes and intracellular membranes, with little or no recognition of the activity in the plasma membranes. In some membrane preparations the antibody PL/IM 430 and antiserum N89 recognized similar degradation products, of 74, 70 and 40 kDa, in the intracellular-membrane fraction. The Ca2+ATPase recognized by PL/IM 430 was immunoprecipitated, and the immunoprecipitated protein was specifically recognized by the antiserum N89, but not by S.2b. Analysis of the phosphoenzyme-complex formation revealed potent phosphorylation of the 100 and 74 kDa peptides, both recognized by PL/IM 430 and N89. These studies report the presence of a PMCA in a purified plasma-membrane fraction from human platelets, and that the antibody PL/IM 430 recognizes the SERCA 3 Ca2+ATPase in intracellular membranes.

Reversal of the Ca2+ pump of blood platelets

In this study, the endoplasmic Ca2+ transport ATPase of blood platelets was compared with the Ca2+ ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum skeletal muscle. Similar to the muscle enzyme, the Ca2+ ATPase from platelets was found to catalyse an ATP<-->P(i) exchange both in the presence and in the absence of a transmembrane Ca2+ gradient. When platelet vesicles are loaded with Ca2+ and diluted in medium containing ADP, P(i) and EGTA, the ATPase catalyses Ca2+ efflux coupled to synthesis of ATP. The stoichiometry between Ca2+ ion released and ATP synthesized by platelet Ca2+ ATPase is 1, while that of skeletal muscle is 2. Thapsigargin, a specific inhibitor of sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPases, inhibited both the Ca(2+)-dependent ATPase activity and the reversal of the platelet Ca2+ pump. The possibility is discussed that the differences observed between the two transport systems is related to the distinct amino acid sequences of the enzymes.

Evidence for Rap1 in vascular smooth muscle cells. Regulation of their expression by platelet-derived growth factor BB

The effect of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) on Rap1 expression was investigated in rat vascular smooth muscle cells (SMC). First, evidence for Rap1 proteins was shown by their: (i) detection in membranes using a specific anti-Rap1 antibody, (ii) typical shift in electrophoretic mobility as a consequence of reduction, and (iii) cAMP-induced phosphorylation and immunoprecipitation. Then, the mitogenic activity of 10 ng/ml PDGF AA and BB for 48 h, resulting in a 2- and 5-fold increase in [3H]thymidine incorporation, was correlated with that of total Rap1 protein expression which was found to be 99% +/- 36% and 260% +/- 70%, respectively. Further time-course studies established that this up-regulation of Rap1 proteins was only observed after 48 h of PDGF BB treatment. Lastly, comparative RT-PCR of both rap1a and rap1b mRNAs showed that PDGF BB also up-regulated the rap1a mRNA species, which was 1.5-fold increased in contrast with the rap1b mRNA species. It is concluded that the PDGF BB-induced SMC proliferation is associated with an up-regulation of Rap1a protein.

Abnormal cAMP-induced phosphorylation of rap 1 protein in grey platelet syndrome platelets

We previously demonstrated abnormal Ca2+ transport by microsomes in platelets from a grey platelet syndrome patient. Here, we investigated the platelet Ca2+ ATPases that mediate this transport, as well as its possible regulation by rap 1 protein. We showed that grey platelet syndrome platelets expressed the same two distinct Ca2+ ATPases as those recently described in normal platelets; the 100 kD SERCA2-b isoform (Sarco/Endoplasmic Reticulum Ca2+ATPase) and a new 97 kD SERCA isoform. The two Ca2+ATPases formed similar amounts of transient phosphorylated intermediates. The expression of these two Ca2+ATPases was compared by Western blotting using specific antibodies, which again emerged in similar amounts in normal and grey platelet syndrome platelets. As regards the protein phosphorylated by cAMP, it was found to be identical to rap 1 protein when it was immunoprecipitated with an antibody raised against a synthetic peptide specific for rap 1 protein. Although the expression of rap 1 protein was similar in membranes isolated from grey platelet syndrome and normal platelets, its exogenous phosphorylation by cAMP was abnormal, with a concentration (10 micrograms/ml) of the catalytic subunits of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (C.Sub.), as it decreased to half the control level. It is concluded that the abnormal Ca2+ transport found in grey platelet syndrome platelets is not due to the abnormal expression of the Ca2+ATPases, but is associated with an abnormality of rap 1 protein phosphorylation by cAMP.

Correlated expression of the 97 kDa sarcoendoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase and Rap1B in platelets and various cell lines

Evidence has accumulated that cyclic AMP (cAMP)-induced phosphorylation of a Ras-related protein (Rap1) regulates platelet Ca2+ transport. As this transport was recently found to be controlled by two isoforms of sarcoendoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA), the 100 kDa SERCA2b and the newly identified 97 kDa SERCA, we attempted to establish which isoform is involved in this regulation. For this purpose, we studied the expression and regulation of both the SERCA and Rap1 isoforms in platelets, haemopoietic cells and various cancer cell lines. SERCA2b was shown to be equally expressed in all the cell lines tested, as determined by detection of its phosphoenzyme formation and by Western blotting using an isoform-specific antibody. In contrast, the expression of the 97 kDa SERCA, studied by the same methods, varied from total absence in the cancer cells to high levels in the megakaryocytic cell lines. With regard to the potential regulatory Rap1 proteins, Western blotting showed different expression of total Rap1 isoforms among the cell lineages, thus ruling out any possible relationship between Rap1 and SERCA2b. However, the expression of Rap1 proteins correlated with that of the 97 kDa SERCA isoform. More refined analysis of the rap1A and rap1B isoforms by reverse transcription PCR and by determining cAMP-induced phosphorylation of Rap1B, i.e. its functional mechanism, confirmed the correlation between Rap1B and the 97 kDa SERCA expression. This relationship was also established by the concerted up-regulation of these two proteins demonstrated in the pathological model of platelets from hypertensive rats. It is concluded that the expressions of 97 KDa SERCA and Rap1B are related, suggesting that regulation of the platelet Ca(2+)-ATPase system by cAMP-induced phosphorylation of Rap1B specifically involves the 97 kDa SERCA.

Demonstration of two isoforms of the SERCA-2b type Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase in pancreatic endoplasmic reticulum

An antibody raised against a 12 amino acid peptide corresponding to the C-terminal sequence of the SERCA-2b Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase precipitated Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase activity from pancreatic rough ER. Thapsigargin and vanadate inhibited the activity with the same concentration-dependence as for native ER membranes. Partial purification of Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase using Reactive Dye-agarose affinity chromatography resulted in activation of the enzyme, suggesting the presence of an endogenous inhibitor which was detached by binding to the Reactive Dye. Immunoblots and analysis of immunoprecipitated protein revealed two bands of molecular masses approx. 111 kDa and 97 kDa. It is concluded that pancreatic ER Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase is of the SERCA-2b type and consists of two isoforms.

Spontaneously hypertensive rats and platelet Ca(2+)-ATPases: specific up-regulation of the 97 kDa isoform

The use of platelets instead of smooth muscle cells (SMC) to study the abnormal Ca2+ handling found in hypertension was investigated using spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). We studied the regulation of platelet Ca(2+)-ATPases, as we have recently demonstrated that human platelets, like SMC, contain the Ca(2+)-ATPase isoform termed SERCA2-b (sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase). In mixed membranes isolated from platelets of normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats and SHR, total Ca(2+)-ATPase activity was found to be 43% higher in SHR than in WKY rats. By the use of autophosphorylation of rat platelet Ca(2+)-ATPases with [gamma-32P]ATP, followed by SDS/PAGE and Western blotting, we found that rat platelets express two distinct Ca(2+)-ATPases: a 100 kDa isoform, recognized by a SERCA2-b-specific anti-peptide antibody, and a 97 kDa isoform, specifically recognized by a polyclonal anti-SERCA antibody. Comparative analysis of platelet membrane Ca(2+)-ATPases from WKY rats and SHR demonstrated that the expression of the SERCA2-b isoform did not change significantly (128 +/- 22%), whereas that of the 97 kDa isoform reached 300 +/- 35% in SHR when compared with WKY rats. We concluded that the upregulation of total platelet Ca(2+)-ATPases in SHR is not due to the 100 kDa SERCA2-b isoform found in SMC, but is specific to the 97 kDa Ca(2+)-ATPase isoform which is not present in SMC. Therefore platelets should be used with extreme caution as a surrogate model of vascular smooth muscle Ca2+ homeostasis.

Characterization of the inositol trisphosphate-sensitive and insensitive calcium stores by selective inhibition of the endoplasmic reticulum-type calcium pump isoforms in isolated platelet membrane vesicles

In mixed platelet membrane vesicles the presence of two distinct endoplasmic reticulum-type calcium pump enzymes of 100 and 97 kD molecular mass has been demonstrated. We have previously shown that both calcium pumps were recognized by polyclonal anti-sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium pump antisera [11]. In the present work we studied the effects of several calcium pump inhibitors on active calcium transport and inositol trisphosphate-induced calcium release in these vesicles in an attempt to assign the two calcium pump isoenzymes to specific calcium pools. The effect of the PL/IM 430 inhibitory anti-calcium pump antibody was compared to that of other calcium pump inhibitors acting predominantly on the 100 and the 97 kD calcium pump isoforms, respectively. The PL/IM 430 antibody, which recognized the 97 kD pump on Western blots and 2,5-di-(tert-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone, which inhibited phosphoenzyme formation of the same pump isoform, inhibited calcium accumulation predominantly into an inositol trisphosphate-releasable calcium pool. On the other hand, low concentration of thapsigargin, which inhibited phosphoenzyme formation mainly of the 100 kD pump isozyme, had a more pronounced effect on calcium uptake into an inositol trisphosphate-resistant pool. These data suggest that in platelets the 97 kD calcium pump isoform is likely to be associated with the inositol trisphosphate-sensitive calcium storage organelle.

Simultaneous presence of two distinct endoplasmic-reticulum-type calcium-pump isoforms in human cells. Characterization by radio-immunoblotting and inhibition by 2,5-di-(t-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone

Phosphorylation, immunoblotting, limited proteolysis and drug-sensitivity analysis were used to characterize the sarcoendoplasmic-reticulum Ca2+ ATPases in a variety of human cell types. In platelets, several megakaryoblastoid and lymphoblastoid cell lines two distinct autophosphorylated forms of these ATPases with molecular mass of 100 and 97 kDa could be observed, whereas in several other cell types the 97 kDa form was absent. On immunoblots the 97 kDa species was specifically recognized by an inhibitory monoclonal antibody raised against the Ca2+ pump of platelet internal membranes, yielded on trypsinolysis a major fragment of 80 kDa, exhibited a distinct electrophoretic migration pattern as compared with the skeletal-, cardiac- and smooth-muscle Ca2+ pumps, and its autophosphorylation was strongly inhibited by the Ca(2+)-mobilizing agent 2,5-di-(t-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone (tBHQ). The 100 kDa species reacted with an antibody specific for the cardiac- and smooth-muscle Ca2+ pumps, yielded on trypsinolysis fragments of 55 and 35 kDa, and its autophosphorylation was much less sensitive to tBHQ inhibition. These findings indicate the simultaneous presence of two different endoplasmic-reticulum Ca2+ pumps in a variety of human cell types, and may explain the previously observed differences in the Ca(2+)-handling characteristics of different intracellular Ca2+ pools and cell types.