A slowly ADP-ribosylated pertussis-toxin-sensitive GTP-binding regulatory protein is required for vasopressin-stimulated Ca2+ inflow in hepatocytes

Store-operated Ca2+ channels and microdomains of Ca2+ in liver cells

1. Oscillatory increases in the cytoplasmic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](cyt)) play essential roles in the hormonal regulation of liver cells. Increases in [Ca(2+)](cyt) require Ca(2+) release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Ca(2+) entry across the plasma membrane. 2. Store-operated Ca(2+) channels (SOCs), activated by a decrease in Ca(2+) in the ER lumen, are responsible for maintaining adequate ER Ca(2+). Experiments using patch-clamp recording and the fluorescent Ca(2+) reporter fura-2 indicate there is only one type of SOC in rat liver cells. These SOCs have a high selectivity for Ca(2+) and properties essentially indistinguishable from those of Ca(2+) release-activated Ca(2+) (CRAC) channels. 3. Although Orai1, a CRAC channel pore protein, and stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), a CRAC channel Ca(2+) sensor, are components of liver cell SOCs, the mechanism of activation of SOCs, and in particular the role of subregions of the ER, are not well understood. 4. Recent experiments have used the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) non-selective cation channel, ectopically expressed in liver cells, and a choleretic bile acid to deplete Ca(2+) from different ER subregions. The results of these studies have provided evidence that only a small component of the ER is required for STIM1 redistribution and the activation of SOCs. 5. It is concluded that different Ca(2+) microdomains in the ER and cytoplasmic space are important in both the activation of SOCs and in the signalling actions of Ca(2+) in liver cells. Future experiments will investigate the nature of these microdomains further.

Heterotrimeric G proteins and the single-transmembrane domain IGF-II/M6P receptor: functional interaction and relevance to cell signaling

The G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family represents the largest and most versatile group of cell surface receptors. Classical GPCR signaling constitutes ligand binding to a seven-transmembrane domain receptor, receptor interaction with a heterotrimeric G protein, and the subsequent activation or inhibition of downstream intracellular effectors to mediate a cellular response. However, recent reports on direct, receptor-independent G protein activation, G protein-independent signaling by GPCRs, and signaling of nonheptahelical receptors via trimeric G proteins have highlighted the intrinsic complexities of G protein signaling mechanisms. The insulin-like growth factor-II/mannose-6 phosphate (IGF-II/M6P) receptor is a single-transmembrane glycoprotein whose principal function is the intracellular transport of lysosomal enzymes. In addition, the receptor also mediates some biological effects in response to IGF-II binding in both neuronal and nonneuronal systems. Multidisciplinary efforts to elucidate the intracellular signaling pathways that underlie these effects have generated data to suggest that the IGF-II/M6P receptor might mediate transmembrane signaling via a G protein-coupled mechanism. The purpose of this review is to outline the characteristics of traditional and nontraditional GPCRs, to relate the IGF-II/M6P receptor's structure with its role in G protein-coupled signaling and to summarize evidence gathered over the years regarding the putative signaling of the IGF-II/M6P receptor mediated by a G protein.

Ca(2+) -permeable channels in the hepatocyte plasma membrane and their roles in hepatocyte physiology

Hepatocytes are highly differentiated and spatially polarised cells which conduct a wide range of functions, including intermediary metabolism, protein synthesis and secretion, and the synthesis, transport and secretion of bile acids. Changes in the concentrations of Ca(2+) in the cytoplasmic space, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), mitochondria, and other intracellular organelles make an essential contribution to the regulation of these hepatocyte functions. While not yet fully understood, the spatial and temporal parameters of the cytoplasmic Ca(2+) signals and the entry of Ca(2+) through Ca(2+)-permeable channels in the plasma membrane are critical to the regulation by Ca(2+) of hepatocyte function. Ca(2+) entry across the hepatocyte plasma membrane has been studied in hepatocytes in situ, in isolated hepatocytes and in liver cell lines. The types of Ca(2+)-permeable channels identified are store-operated, ligand-gated, receptor-activated and stretch-activated channels, and these may vary depending on the animal species studied. Rat liver cell store-operated Ca(2+) channels (SOCs) have a high selectivity for Ca(2+) and characteristics similar to those of the Ca(2+) release activated Ca(2+) channels in lymphocytes and mast cells. Liver cell SOCs are activated by a decrease in Ca(2+) in a sub-region of the ER enriched in type1 IP(3) receptors. Activation requires stromal interaction molecule type 1 (STIM1), and G(i2alpha,) F-actin and PLCgamma1 as facilitatory proteins. P(2x) purinergic channels are the only ligand-gated Ca(2+)-permeable channels in the liver cell membrane identified so far. Several types of receptor-activated Ca(2+) channels have been identified, and some partially characterised. It is likely that TRP (transient receptor potential) polypeptides, which can form Ca(2+)- and Na(+)-permeable channels, comprise many hepatocyte receptor-activated Ca(2+)-permeable channels. A number of TRP proteins have been detected in hepatocytes and in liver cell lines. Further experiments are required to characterise the receptor-activated Ca(2+) permeable channels more fully, and to determine the molecular nature, mechanisms of activation, and precise physiological functions of each of the different hepatocyte plasma membrane Ca(2+) permeable channels.

A novel chloride conductance activated by extracellular ATP in mouse parotid acinar cells

Salivary gland fluid secretion is driven by transepithelial Cl- movement involving an apical Cl- channel whose molecular identity remains unknown. Extracellular ATP (ATP(o)) has been shown to activate a Cl- conductance (I(ATPCl)) in secretory epithelia; to gain further insight into I(ATPCl) in mouse parotid acinar cells, we investigated the effects of ATP(o) using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. ATP(o) and 2'- and 3'-O-(4-benzoylbenzoyl)adenosine 5'-triphosphate triethylammonium salt (Bz-ATP) produced concentration-dependent, time-independent Cl- currents with an EC50 of 160 and 15 microM, respectively. I(ATPCl) displayed a selectivity sequence of SCN- > I- = NO3- > Cl- > glutamate, similar to the Cl- channels activated by Ca2+, cAMP and cell swelling in acinar cells. In contrast, I(ATPCl) was insensitive to pharmacological agents that are known to inhibit these latter Cl- channels, was independent of Ca2+ and was not regulated by cell volume. Moreover, the I(ATPCl) magnitude from wild-type animals was comparable to that from mice with null mutations in the Cftr, Clcn3 and Clcn2 Cl- channel genes. Taken together, our results demonstrate that I(ATPCl) is distinct from the channels described previously in acinar cells. The activation of I(ATPCl) by Bz-ATP suggests that P2 nucleotide receptors are involved. However, inhibition of G-protein activation with GDP-beta-S failed to block I(ATPCl), and Cibacron Blue 3GA and 4,4'-diisothyocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulphonic disodium salt selectively inhibited the Na+ currents (presumably through P2X receptors) without altering I(ATPCl), suggesting that neither P2Y nor P2X receptors are likely to be involved in I(ATPCl) activation. We conclude that I(ATPCl) is not associated with Cl- channels previously characterized in mouse parotid acinar cells, nor is it dependent on P2 nucleotide receptor stimulation. I(ATPCl) expressed in acinar cells reflects the activation of a novel ATP-gated Cl- channel that may play an important physiological role in salivary gland fluid secretion.

Heterotrimeric G-proteins activate Cl- channels through stimulation of a cyclooxygenase-dependent pathway in a model liver cell line

Circulating hormones produce rapid changes in the Cl(-) permeability of liver cells through activation of plasma membrane receptors coupled to heterotrimeric G-proteins. The resulting effects on intracellular pH, membrane potential, and Cl(-) content are important contributors to the overall metabolic response. Consequently, the purpose of these studies was to evaluate the mechanisms responsible for G-protein-mediated changes in membrane Cl(-) permeability using HTC hepatoma cells as a model. Using patch clamp techniques, intracellular dialysis with 0.3 mm guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) (GTPgammaS) increased membrane conductance from 10 to 260 picosiemens/picofarads due to activation of Ca(2+)-dependent Cl(-) currents that were outwardly rectifying and exhibited slow activation at depolarizing potentials. These effects were mimicked by intracellular AlF(4)(-) (0.03 mm) and inhibited by pertussis toxin (PTX), consistent with current activation through Galpha(i). Studies using defined agonists and inhibitors indicate that Cl(-) channel activation by GTPgammaS occurs through an indomethacin-sensitive pathway involving sequential activation of phospholipase C, mobilization of Ca(2+) from inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-sensitive stores, and stimulation of phospholipase A(2) and cyclooxygenase (COX). Accordingly, the conductance responses to GTPgammaS or to intracellular Ca(2+) were inhibited by COX inhibitors. These results indicate that PTX-sensitive G-proteins regulate the Cl(-) permeability of HTC cells through Ca(2+)-dependent stimulation of COX activity. Thus, receptor-mediated activation of Galpha(i) may be essential for hormonal regulation of liver transport and metabolism through COX-dependent opening of a distinct population of plasma membrane Cl(-) channels.

Activatory effect of regucalcin on GTPase activity in rat liver plasma membranes

The effect of regucalcin, a regulatory protein of Ca2+ signaling, on guanosine-5'-triphosphatase (GTPase) activity in isolated rat liver plasma membranes was investigated. GTPase activity was significantly increased by the addition of Ca2+ (25-100 microM) in the enzyme reaction mixture. Such an increase was not seen by other metals (Mg, Co, Zn, Cu, Ni and Mn) with 50 microM. The activatory effect of calcium (50 microM) was significantly decreased by calmodulin (2.5 and 5 microg/ml), indicating that it does not depend on calmodulin. The presence of regucalcin (0.1-0.5 microM) in the enzyme reaction mixture caused a significant increase in GTPase activity. This increase was not significantly enhanced by calcium (50 microM). GTPase activity was significantly increased by dithiothreitol (DTT; 5 mM), a protecting reagent of thiol (SH)-groups, while it was decreased by N-ethylmaleimide (NEM; 5 mM), a modifying reagent of SH-groups. The effect of calcium or regucalcin in increasing GTPase activity was not seen in the presence of NEM. Also, the activatory effect of calcium or regucalcin on GTPase was not seen in the presence of vanadate, an inhibitor of protein phosphorylation, which could inhibit GTPase activity. Moreover, the effect of regucalcin was not seen in the presence of digitonin (0.01%), a solubilizing reagent of membranous lipids, while the effect of calcium was not inhibited by digitonin. The present study demonstrates that regucalcin has an activatory effect on GTPase activity independently of Ca2+ in rat liver plasma membranes.

Regulation of F-actin and endoplasmic reticulum organization by the trimeric G-protein Gi2 in rat hepatocytes. Implication for the activation of store-operated Ca2+ inflow

The roles of the heterotrimeric G-protein, G(i2), in regulating the actin cytoskeleton and the activation of store-operated Ca(2+) channels in rat hepatocytes were investigated. Galpha(i2) was principally associated with the plasma membrane and microsomes. Both F-actin and Galpha(i2) were detected by Western blot analysis in a purified plasma membrane preparation, the supernatant and pellet obtained by treating the plasma membrane with Triton X-100, and after depolymerization and repolymerization of F-actin in the Triton X-100-insoluble pellet. Actin in the Triton X-100-soluble supernatant co-precipitated with Galpha(i2) using either anti-Galpha(i2) or anti-actin antibodies. The principally cortical location of F-actin in hepatocytes cultured for 0.5 h changed to a pericanalicular distribution over a further 3.5 h. Some Galpha(i2) co-localized with F-actin at the plasma membrane. Pretreatment with pertussis toxin ADP-ribosylated 70-80% of Galpha(i2) in the plasma membrane and microsomes, prevented the redistribution of F-actin, caused redistribution and fragmentation of the endoplasmic reticulum, and inhibited vasopressin-stimulated Ca(2+) inflow. It is concluded that (i) a significant portion of hepatocyte Galpha(i2) associates with, and regulates the arrangement of, cortical F-actin and the endoplasmic reticulum and (ii) either or both of these regulatory roles are likely to be required for normal vasopressin activation of Ca(2+) inflow.

Store-operated Ca(2+) inflow in Reuber hepatoma cells is inhibited by voltage-operated Ca(2+) channel antagonists and, in contrast to freshly isolated hepatocytes, does not require a pertussis toxin-sensitive trimeric GTP-binding protein

The treatment of H4-IIE cells (an immortalised liver cell line derived from the Reuber rat hepatoma) with thapsigargin, 2, 5-di-(tert-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone, cyclopiazonic acid, or pretreatment with EGTA, stimulated Ca(2+) inflow (assayed using intracellular fluo-3 and a Ca(2+) add-back protocol). No stimulation of Mn(2+) inflow by thapsigargin was detected. Thapsigargin-stimulated Ca(2+) inflow was inhibited by Gd(3+) (maximal inhibition at 2 microM Gd(3+)), the imidazole derivative SK&F 96365, and by relatively high concentrations of the voltage-operated Ca(2+) channel antagonists, verapamil, nifedipine, nicardipine and the novel dihydropyridine analogues AN406 and AN1043. The calmodulin antagonists W7, W13 and calmidazolium also inhibited thapsigargin-induced Ca(2+) inflow and release of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores. No inhibition of either Ca(2+) inflow or Ca(2+) release was observed with calmodulin antagonist KN62. Substantial inhibition of Ca(2+) inflow by calmidazolium was only observed when the inhibitor was added before thapsigargin. Pretreatment of H4-IIE cells with pertussis toxin, or treatment with brefeldin A, did not inhibit thapsigargin-stimulated Ca(2+) inflow. Compared with freshly isolated rat hepatocytes, H4-IIE cells exhibited a more diffuse actin cytoskeleton, and a more granular arrangement of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). In contrast to freshly isolated hepatocytes, the arrangement of the ER in H4-IIE cells was not affected by pertussis toxin treatment. Western blot analysis of lysates of freshly isolated rat hepatocytes revealed two forms of G(i2(alpha)) with apparent molecular weights of 41 and 43 kDa. Analysis of H4-IIE cell lysates showed only the 41 kDa form of G(i2(alpha)) and substantially less total G(i2(alpha)) than that present in rat hepatocytes. It is concluded that H4-IIE cells possess store-operated Ca(2+) channels which do not require calmodulin for activation and exhibit properties similar to those in freshly isolated rat hepatocytes, including susceptibility to inhibition by relatively high concentrations of voltage-operated Ca(2+) channel antagonists. In contrast to rat hepatocytes, SOCs in H4-IIE cells do not require G(i2(alpha)) for activation. Possible explanations for differences in the requirement for G(i2(alpha)) in the activation of Ca(2+) inflow are briefly discussed.

Insulin-induced Ca(2+) entry in hepatocytes is important for PI 3-kinase activation, but not for insulin receptor and IRS-1 tyrosine phosphorylation

Insulin produces an influx of Ca(2+) into isolated rat hepatocyte couplets that is important to couple its tyrosine kinase receptor to MAPK activity (Benzeroual et al., Am. J. Physiol. 272, (1997) G1425-G1432. In the present study, we have examined the implication of Ca(2+) in the phosphorylation state of the insulin receptor (IR) beta-subunit and of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1), as well as in the stimulation of PI 3-kinase activity in cultured hepatocytes. External Ca(2+) chelation (EGTA 4 mM) or administration of Ca(2+) channel inhibitors gadolinium 50 microM or nickel 500 microM inhibited insulin-induced PI 3-kinase activation by 85, 50 and 50%, respectively, whereas 200 microM verapamil was without effect. In contrast, the insulin-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of IR beta-subunit and of IRS-1 was not affected by any of the experimental conditions. Our data demonstrate that the stimulation of PI 3-kinase activity by the activated insulin receptor, but not the phosphorylation of IR beta-subunit and IRS-1, requires an influx of Ca(2+). Ca(2+) thus appears to play an important role as a second messenger in insulin signaling in liver cells.

Modulation of Ca(2+) entry by polypeptides of the inositol 1,4, 5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) that bind transient receptor potential (TRP): evidence for roles of TRP and IP3R in store depletion-activated Ca(2+) entry

Homologues of Drosophilia transient receptor potential (TRP) have been proposed to be unitary subunits of plasma membrane ion channels that are activated as a consequence of active or passive depletion of Ca(2+) stores. In agreement with this hypothesis, cells expressing TRPs display novel Ca(2+)-permeable cation channels that can be activated by the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) protein. Expression of TRPs alters cells in many ways, including up-regulation of IP3Rs not coded for by TRP genes, and proof that TRP forms channels of these and other cells is still missing. Here, we document physical interaction of TRP and IP3R by coimmunoprecipitation and glutathione S-transferase-pulldown experiments and identify two regions of IP3R, F2q and F2g, that interact with one region of TRP, C7. These interacting regions were expressed in cells with an unmodified complement of TRPs and IP3Rs to study their effect on agonist- as well as store depletion-induced Ca(2+) entry and to test for a role of their respective binding partners in Ca(2+) entry. C7 and an F2q-containing fragment of IP3R decreased both forms of Ca(2+) entry. In contrast, F2g enhanced the two forms of Ca(2+) entry. We conclude that store depletion-activated Ca(2+) entry occurs through channels that have TRPs as one of their normal structural components, and that these channels are directly activated by IP3Rs. IP3Rs, therefore, have the dual role of releasing Ca(2+) from stores and activating Ca(2+) influx in response to either increasing IP3 or decreasing luminal Ca(2+).

Evidence for the involvement of a small subregion of the endoplasmic reticulum in the inositol trisphosphate receptor-induced activation of Ca2+ inflow in rat hepatocytes

The roles of a subregion of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the cortical actin cytoskeleton in the mechanisms by which Ins(1,4,5)P3 induces the activation of store-operated Ca2+ channels (SOCs) in isolated rat hepatocytes were investigated. Adenophostin A, a potent agonist at Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptors, induced ER Ca2+ release and the activation of Ca2+ inflow. The concentration of adenophostin A that gave half-maximal stimulation of Ca2+ inflow (10 nM) was substantially lower than that (20 nM) which gave half-maximal ER Ca2+ release. A low concentration of adenophostin A (approx. 13 nM) caused near-maximal stimulation of Ca2+ inflow but only 20% of maximal ER Ca2+ release. Similar results were obtained using another Ins(1,4,5)P3-receptor agonist, 2-hydroxyethyl-alpha-d-glucopyranoside 2,3',4'-trisphosphate. Anti-type-1 Ins(1,4,5)P3-receptor monoclonal antibody 18A10 inhibited vasopressin-stimulated Ca2+ inflow but had no observable effect on vasopressin-induced ER Ca2+ release. Treatment with cytochalasin B at a concentration that partially disrupted the cortical actin cytoskeleton inhibited Ca2+ inflow and ER Ca2+ release induced by vasopressin by 73 and 45%, respectively. However, it did not substantially affect Ca2+ inflow and ER Ca2+ release induced by thapsigargin or 13 nM adenophostin A, intracellular Ca2+ release induced by ionomycin or Ins(1,4, 5)P3P4(5)-1-(2-nitrophenyl)ethyl ester ['caged' Ins(1,4,5)P3] or basal Ca2+ inflow. 1-(5-Chloronaphthalene-1-sulphonyl)homopiperazine, HCl (ML-9), an inhibitor of myosin light-chain kinase, also inhibited vasopressin-induced Ca2+ inflow and ER Ca2+ release by 53 and 44%, respectively, but had little effect on thapsigargin-induced Ca2+ inflow and ER Ca2+ release. Neither cytochalasin B nor ML-9 inhibited vasopressin-induced Ins(1,4,5)P3 formation. It is concluded that the activation of SOCs in rat hepatocytes induced by Ins(1,4,5)P3 requires the participation of a small region of the ER, which is distinguished from other regions of the ER by a different apparent affinity for Ins(1,4,5)P3 analogues and is associated with the plasma membrane through the actin skeleton. This conclusion is discussed briefly in relation to current hypotheses for the activation of SOCs.

Receptor-activated Ca2+ inflow in animal cells: a variety of pathways tailored to meet different intracellular Ca2+ signalling requirements

Receptor-activated Ca2+ channels (RACCs) play a central role in regulation of the functions of animal cells. Together with voltage-operated Ca2+ channels (VOCCs) and ligand-gated non-selective cation channels, RACCs provide a variety of pathways by which Ca2+ can be delivered to the cytoplasmic space and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in order to initiate or maintain specific types of intracellular Ca2+ signal. Store-operated Ca2+ channels (SOCs), which are activated by a decrease in Ca2+ in the ER, are a major subfamily of RACCs. A careful analysis of the available data is required in order to discern the different types of RACCs (differentiated chiefly on the basis of ion selectivity and mechanism of activation) and to properly develop hypotheses for structures and mechanisms of activation. Despite much intensive research, the structures and mechanisms of activation of RACCs are only now beginning to be understood. In considering the physiological functions of the different RACCs, it is useful to consider the specificity for Ca2+ of each type of cation channel and the rate at which Ca2+ flows through a single open channel; the locations of the channels on the plasma membrane (in relation to the ER, cytoskeleton and other intracellular units of structure and function); the Ca2+-responsive enzymes and proteins; and the intracellular buffers and proteins that control the distribution of Ca2+ in the cytoplasmic space. RACCs which are non-selective cation channels can deliver Ca2+ directly to specific regions of the cytoplasmic space, and can also admit Na+, which induces depolarization of the plasma membrane, the opening of VOCCs and the subsequent inflow of Ca2+. SOCs appear to deliver Ca2+ specifically to the ER, thereby maintaining oscillating Ca2+ signals.

3,5,3'-Tri-iodo-L-thyronine acutely regulates a protein kinase C-sensitive, Ca2+-independent, branch of the hepatic alpha1-adrenoreceptor signalling pathway

This work aimed to investigate the acute effect of the thyroid hormone 3,5,3'-tri-iodo-L-thyronine (T3) in regulating the hepatic metabolism either directly or by controlling the responsiveness to Ca2+-mobilizing agonists. We did not detect any acute metabolic effect of T3 either in perfused liver or in isolated liver cells. However, T3 exerted a powerful inhibitory effect on the alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated responses. The promptness of this T3 effect rules out that it was the result of rate changes in gene(s) transcription. T3 inhibited the alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated sustained stimulation of respiration and release of Ca2+ and H+, but not the glycogenolytic or gluconeogenic responses, in perfused liver. In isolated liver cells, T3 enhanced the alpha1-agonist-induced increase in cytosolic free Ca2+ and impeded the intracellular alkalinization. Since T3 also prevented the alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated activation of protein kinase C, its effects on pH seem to be the result of a lack of activation of the Na+/H+ exchanger. The failure of T3 to prevent the alpha1-adrenergic stimulation of gluconeogenesis despite the inhibition of protein kinase C activation indicates that the elevation of cytosolic free Ca2+ is a sufficient signal to elicit that response. T3 also impaired some of the angiotensin-II-mediated responses, but did not alter the effects of PMA on hepatic metabolism, indicating, therefore, that some postreceptor event is the target for T3 actions. The differential effect of T3 in enhancing the alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated increase in cytosolic free Ca2+ and preventing the activation of protein kinase C, provides a unique tool for further investigating the role of each branch of the signalling pathway in controlling the hepatic functions. Moreover, the low effective concentrations of T3 (<= 10 nM) in perturbing the alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated response suggests its physiological significance.

Protein kinase A regulates the disposition of Ca2+ which enters the cytoplasmic space through store-activated Ca2+ channels in rat hepatocytes by diverting inflowing Ca2+ to mitochondria

The roles of a trimeric GTP-binding regulatory protein, protein kinase A and mitochondria in the regulation of store-activated (thapsigargin-stimulated) Ca2+ inflow in freshly-isolated rat hepatocytes were investigated. Rates of Ca2+ inflow were estimated by measuring the increase in the fluorescence of intracellular fura-2 following the addition of extracellular Ca2+ (Ca2+o) to cells incubated in the absence of added Ca2+o. Guanosine 5'-[gamma-thio]-triphosphate (GTP[S]) and AlF4(-) inhibited the thapsigargin-stimulated Ca2+o-induced increase in cytoplasmic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]c) and this inhibition was prevented by the Rp diastereoisomer of adenosine 3',5'-(cyclic)phosphoro[thioate]. cAMP, forskolin and glucagon (half-maximal effect at 10 nM) mimicked inhibition of the thapsigargin-stimulated Ca2+o-induced increase in [Ca2+]c by GTP[S], but had little effect on thapsigargin-induced release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. Azide and carbonyl cyanide p-trifluoromethoxyphenylhydrazone inhibited the thapsigargin-stimulated Ca2+o-induced increase in [Ca2+]c in the presence of increased cAMP (induced by glucagon). In contrast, Ruthenium Red markedly enhanced the thapsigargin-stimulated Ca2+o-induced increase in [Ca2+]c in both the presence and absence of increased cAMP (induced by forskolin and dibutyryl cAMP). It is concluded that, in hepatocytes, protein kinase A regulates the disposition of Ca2+, which enters the cytoplasmic space through store-activated Ca2+ channels, by directing some of this Ca2+ to the mitochondria. The idea that caution should be exercised in using observed values of Ca2+o-induced increase in [Ca2+]c as estimates of rates of agonist-stimulated Ca2+ inflow is briefly discussed.

Evidence that a low-molecular-mass GTP-binding protein is required for store-activated Ca2+ inflow in hepatocytes

The roles of a monomeric GTP-binding regulatory protein in the activation of store-activated plasma membrane Ca2+ channels and in the release of Ca2+ from the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) in rat liver parenchymal cells were investigated with the use of freshly isolated rat hepatocytes and rat liver microsomes. A low concentration (approx. 130 microM intracellular) of guanosine 5'-[gamma-thio]triphosphate (GTP[S]) activated Ca2+ inflow in intact hepatocytes in the absence of an agonist, whereas a high concentration (approx. 530 microM intracellular) of GTP-S- or guanosine 5'-[betagamma-imido]triphosphate (p[NH]ppG) inhibited the Ca2+ inflow induced by inhibitors of the activity of the endoplasmic-reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) and by vasopressin. GTP (530 microM) prevented the inhibition of Ca2+ inflow by GTP-S- and p[NH]ppG. Brefeldin A and the peptide human Arf-1-(2-17), which inhibit many functions of ADP ribosylation factor (Arf) proteins, inhibited the Ca2+ inflow induced by SERCA inhibitors and vasopressin, and altered the profile of Ca2+ release from the SER. These effects were observed at concentrations of Brefeldin A and Arf-1-(2-17) comparable with those that inhibit the functions of Arf proteins in other systems. Succinylated Arf-1-(2-17) had a negligible effect on Ca2+ inflow. GTP[S] and Arf-1-(2-17) completely inhibited the synergistic action of GTP and Ins(1,4,5)P3 in releasing 45Ca2+ from rat liver microsomes loaded with 45Ca2+. AlF4(-) (under conditions expected to activate trimeric G-proteins) and succinylated Arf-1-(2-17) had no effect on GTP/Ins(1,4,5))3-induced 45Ca2+ release, and a mastoparan analogue caused partial inhibition. Arf-1-(2-17) did not inhibit 45Ca2+ release induced by either thapsigargin or ionomycin. It is concluded that a low-molecular-mass G-protein, most probably a member of the Arf protein family, is required for store-activated Ca2+ inflow in rat hepatocytes. The idea that the role of this G-protein is to maintain a region of the SER in the correct intracellular location is discussed briefly.

Cloning and expression of a novel mammalian homolog of Drosophila transient receptor potential (Trp) involved in calcium entry secondary to activation of receptors coupled by the Gq class of G protein

Hormonal stimulation of Gq-protein coupled receptors triggers Ca2+ mobilization from internal stores. This is followed by a Ca2+ entry through the plasma membrane. Drosophila Trp and Trpl proteins have been implicated in Ca2+ entry and three mammalian homologues of Drosophila Trp/Trpl, hTrp1, hTrp3 and bTrp4 (also bCCE) have been cloned and expressed. Using mouse brain RNA as template, we report here the polymerase chain reaction-based cloning and functional expression of a novel Trp, mTrp6. The cDNA encodes a protein of 930 amino acids, the sequence of which is 36.8, 36.3, 43.1, 38.6, and 74. 1% identical to Drosophila Trp and Trpl, bovine Trp4, and human Trp1 and Trp3, respectively. Transient expression of mTrp6 in COS.M6 cells by transfection of the full-length mTrp6 cDNA increases Ca2+ entry induced by stimulation of co-transfected M5 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor with carbachol (CCh), as seen by dual wavelength fura 2 fluorescence ratio measurements. The mTrp6-mediated increase in Ca2+ entry activity was blocked by SKF-96365 and La3+. Ca2+ entry activity induced by thapsigargin was similar in COS cells transfected with or without the mTrp6 cDNA. The thapsigargin-stimulated Ca2+ entry could not be further stimulated by CCh in control cells but was markedly increased in mTrp6-transfected cells. Records of whole cell transmembrane currents developed in response to voltage ramps from -80 to +40 mV in control HEK cells and HEK cells stably expressing mTrp6 revealed the presence of a muscarinic receptor responsive non-selective cation conductance in Trp6 cells that was absent in control cells. Our data support the hypothesis that mTrp6 encodes an ion channel subunit that mediates Ca2+ entry stimulated by a G-protein coupled receptor, but not Ca2+ entry stimulated by intracellular Ca2+ store depletion.

Role of Ca2+ and protein kinase C in the receptor-mediated activation of Na+/H+ exchange in isolated liver cells

This work aimed to study the relationship between agonist-induced changes in cytosolic free calcium levels, protein kinase C (PKC) activity and intracellular pH in isolated liver cells. We observed that, like alpha1-adrenergic agonists, the Ca2+-mobilizing vasoactive peptides vasopressin and angiotensin II produced an extracellular-Na+-dependent, 5-(N-ethyl-N-isopropyl)amiloride-sensitive, intracellular alkalinization, indicative of Na+/H+ antiporter activation. Blocking the agonist-induced increase in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration using the calcium chelator bis-(o-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N', N'-tetra-acetic acid (BAPTA) prevented all types of receptor-mediated intracellular alkalinization. Thus activation of the Na+/H+ exchanger by either alpha1-adrenergic agonists or vasoactive peptides relies on the mobilization of intracellular Ca2+. In contrast, only the alpha1-adrenergic-agonist-induced alkalinization was dependent on extracellular Ca2+. Even though alpha1-adrenergic as well as vasoactive peptide agonists stimulated protein kinase C (PKC) activity in isolated liver cells, only the alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated intracellular alkalinization was dependent on PKC. According to these observations, Ca2+-mobilizing agonists appear to activate the Na+/H+ exchanger by at least two different mechanisms: (1) the alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated activation that is dependent on extracellular Ca2+ and PKC; and (2) vasoactive-peptide-induced alkalinization that is independent of extracellular Ca2+ and PKC. The alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated, PKC-sensitive, activation of the Na+/H+ exchanger seems to be responsible for the distinct ability of these receptors to elicit the sustained stimulation of hepatic functions.

A new linear V1A vasopressin antagonist and its use in characterizing receptor/G protein interactions

We characterized a new iodinated, high affinity, linear V1a vasopressin antagonist, phenylacetylD-Tyr(Et)Phe-Gln-Asn-Lys-Pro-Arg-Tyr-NH2. The antagonist bound specifically to the V1a vasopressin receptor in crude rat liver membranes with an apparent Kd value of 0.168 nM. This affinity is approximately 1 order of magnitude greater than that of the natural agonist, vasopressin. The inhibitory activity of the antagonist can be demonstrated by its inability to elicit activation and uncoupling of G proteins from the receptor. Thus, after occupancy of receptor sites in rat liver membranes with labeled antagonist and detergent solubilization, the labeled receptor (approximately 60 kDa) was eluted as a stable 400-kDa complex on size-exclusion chromatography. In contrast, when the receptor sites were occupied by the agonist [3H]vasopressin, the receptor eluted as a 60-kDa peak. Coincubation of membranes with iodinated antagonist and an excess of unlabeled vasopressin caused both reduced antagonist binding and a complete shift from the 400-kDa to the 60-kDa peak. The addition of vasopressin to unliganded 400-kDa fractions resulted in a 75% increase in [35S]guanosine-5'-O-(3-thio)triphosphate binding activity, indicating that the 400-kDa fraction contains complexes between the V1a receptor and G proteins. The vasopressin-elicited increase was inhibited by antagonist. Using specific antibodies and immunoadsorption to protein A/Sepharose columns, we found that G protein isotypes G(alpha q/11), G(alpha i3), and G(alpha s), and effector enzymes PLC-beta1, PLC-gamma2 and PLA-2 were associated with the antagonist-labeled receptor in the 400-kDa fraction. Because the 400-kDa complex was found in the absence of ligand, the V1a receptor and the appropriate G proteins and effector enzymes are likely preassociated with each other and do not aggregate after antagonist addition. The association of V1a receptor with the different specific G proteins and effector enzymes is consistent with the multiple actions of vasopressin on liver cells. Antibodies directed against a portion of the carboxyl-terminal domain of the V1a receptor interacted with 60-kDa antagonist-occupied receptor but not with receptor in the 400-kDa complex. These results suggest that the carboxyl-terminal region of the receptor is sterically hindered when coupled to G proteins. The iodinated linear vasopressin antagonist therefore allows stable receptor/G protein complexes and can be an important tool (along with the antisera) for use in the study of factors that control V1a receptor/G protein coupling.

On the molecular basis and regulation of cellular capacitative calcium entry: roles for Trp proteins

During the last 2 years, our laboratory has worked on the elucidation of the molecular basis of capacitative calcium entry (CCE) into cells. Specifically, we tested the hypothesis that CCE channels are formed of subunits encoded in genes related to the Drosophila trp gene. The first step in this pursuit was to search for mammalian trp genes. We found not one but six mammalian genes and cloned several of their cDNAs, some in their full length. As assayed in mammalian cells, overexpression of some mammalian Trps increases CCE, while expression of partial trp cDNAs in antisense orientation can interfere with endogenous CCE. These findings provided a firm connection between CCE and mammalian Trps. This article reviews the known forms of CCE and highlights unanswered questions in our understanding of intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis and the physiological roles of CCE.

Pinocytosis in 2,5-di-tert-butylhydroquinone-stimulated hepatocytes and evaluation of its role in Ca2+ inflow

In order to evaluate the contribution of pinocytosis to basal (no agonist) and lanthanide-insensitive store-activated Ca2+ inflow in freshly-isolated rat hepatocytes, the uptake of extracellular fluid by pinocytosis was measured at 20 degrees C and used to predict the amount of extracellular Ca2+ taken up by pinocytosis. This was compared with the measured rate of Ca2+ uptake in the basal state, and with the measured lanthanide-insensitive component of divalent cation uptake stimulated by 2,5-di-tert-butylhydroquinone (DBHQ), an inhibitor of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (Ca2+ + Mg2+)ATP-ase. Fluid uptake by pinocytosis was measured using [14C]sucrose. In hepatocytes incubated at 20 degrees C, DBHQ increased the initial rate of sucrose uptake by about 35%. The data for sucrose uptake were used to calculate the volume of extracellular fluid taken up by pinocytosis which, in turn, was used to predict the amount of extracellular Ca2+ taken up through pinocytosis in the basal and DBHQ-stimulated states. Rates of divalent cation inflow in the basal state were determined at 20 degrees C by measuring the uptake of 45Ca2+. The degree of stimulation of Ca2+ inflow by DBHQ and the lanthanide-insensitive component of DBHQ-stimulated divalent cation inflow were determined by measuring the rate of Mn(2+)-induced quenching of intracellular quin-2 in the absence of an agonist, and in the presence of DBHQ or DBHQ plus Gd3+. It was calculated that the process of pinocytosis accounts for at least 15% of Ca2+ uptake in the basal (no agonist) state, and for about 10% of DBHQ-stimulated lanthanide-insensitive Ca2+ uptake. It is concluded that in isolated hepatocytes (i) the release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores stimulates pinocytosis and (ii) the process of pinocytosis can account for a substantial proportion of basal Ca2+ inflow and a small proportion of DBHQ-stimulated lanthanide-insensitive Ca2+ inflow.

Isolated rat hepatocytes can signal to other hepatocytes and bile duct cells by release of nucleotides

Intercellular communication among certain cell types can occur via ATP secretion, which leads to stimulation of nucleotide receptors on target cells. In epithelial cells, however, intercellular communication is thought to occur instead via gap junctions. Here we examined whether one epithelial cell type, hepatocytes, can also communicate via nucleotide secretion. The effects on cytosolic Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) of mechanical stimulation, including microinjection, were examined in isolated rat hepatocytes and in isolated bile duct units using confocal fluorescence video microscopy. Mechanical stimulation of a single hepatocyte evoked an increase in [Ca2+]i in the stimulated cell plus an unexpected [Ca2+]i rise in neighboring noncontacting hepatocytes. Perifusion with ATP before mechanical stimulation suppressed the [Ca2+]i increase, but pretreatment with phenylephrine did not. The P2 receptor antagonist suramin inhibited these intercellular [Ca2+]i signals. The ATP/ADPase apyrase reversibly inhibited the [Ca2+]i rise induced by mechanical stimulation, and did not block vasopressin-induced [Ca2+]i signals. Mechanical stimulation of hepatocytes also induced a [Ca2+]i increase in cocultured isolated bile duct units, and this [Ca2+]i increase was inhibited by apyrase as well. Finally, this form of [Ca2+]i signaling could be elicited in the presence of propidium iodide without nuclear labeling by that dye, indicating that this phenomenon does not depend on disruption of the stimulated cell. Thus, mechanical stimulation of isolated hepatocytes, including by microinjection, can evoke [Ca2+]i signals in the stimulated cell as well as in neighboring noncontacting hepatocytes and bile duct epithelia. This signaling is mediated by release of ATP or other nucleotides into the extracellular space. This is an important technical consideration given the widespread use of microinjection techniques for examining mechanisms of signal transduction. Moreover, the evidence provided suggests a novel paracrine signaling pathway for epithelia, which previously were thought to communicate exclusively via gap junctions.

Modulation of the hepatic alpha 1-adrenoceptor responsiveness by colchicine: dissociation of free cytosolic Ca(2+)-dependent and independent responses

1. The cytoskeletal depolymerizing agent, colchicine, prevents the hepatic alpha 1-adrenoceptor-mediated stimulation of respiration, H+ and Ca2+ release to the effluent perfusate, intracellular alkalosis, and glycogenolysis. Unlike the other parameters, colchicine does not perturb the alpha 1-agonist-induced stimulation of gluconeogenesis or phosphorylase 'a' activation, and enhances the increase in portal pressure response. The lack of effect of colchicine on the hepatic alpha 2-adrenoceptor-mediated effects indicates that its actions are alpha 1-specific. 2. Colchicine enhances the acute alpha 1-adrenoceptor-mediated intracellular Ca2+ mobilization and prevents the activation of protein kinase C. This differential effect on the two branches of the alpha 1-adrenoceptor signalling pathway is a distinctive feature of the colchicine action. 3. The lack of effect of colchicine in altering the alpha 1-adrenoceptor ligand binding affinity suggests that it might interact with some receptor-coupled regulatory element(s). 4. The acuteness of the colchicine effect and the ability of its isomer beta-lumicolchicine to prevent all the alpha 1-adrenoceptor-mediated responses but the increase in vascular resistance, indicate that its action cannot be merely ascribed to its effects in depolymerizing tubulin. 5. Colchicine perturbs the hepatic responses to vasoactive peptides. It enhances the vasopressin-induced rise of cytosolic free Ca2+ in isolated hepatocytes and prevents the sustained decrease of Ca2+ in the effluent perfusate. It also inhibits the stimulation of glycogenolysis, without altering the stimulation of gluconeogenesis. 6. It is concluded that there are at least two major alpha 1-adrenoceptor signalling pathways. One is colchicine-sensitive, independent of variations in free cytosolic Ca2+, and protein kinase C-dependent; the other one is colchicine-insensitive, dependent on variations in free cytosolic Ca2+, and protein kinase C-independent.

Expression of Drosophila trpl cRNA in Xenopus laevis oocytes leads to the appearance of a Ca2+ channel activated by Ca2+ and calmodulin, and by guanosine 5'[gamma-thio]triphosphate

The effects of expression of the Drosophila melanogaster Trpl protein, which is thought to encode a putative Ca2+ channel [Phillips, Bull and Kelly (1992) Neuron 8, 631-642], on divalent cation inflow in Xenopus laevis oocytes were investigated. The addition of extracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]0) to oocytes injected with trpl cRNA and to mock-injected controls, both loaded with the fluorescent Ca2+ indicator fluo-3, induced a rapid initial and a slower sustained rate of increase in fluorescence, which were designated the initial and sustained rates of Ca2+ inflow respectively. Compared with mock-injected oocytes, trpl-cRNA-injected oocytes exhibited a higher resting cytoplasmic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), and higher initial and sustained rates of Ca2+ inflow in the basal (no agonist) states. The basal rate of Ca2+ inflow in trpl-cRNA-injected oocytes increased with (1) an increase in the time elapsed between injection of trpl cRNA and the measurement of Ca2+ inflow, (2) an increase in the amount of trpl cRNA injected and (3) an increase in [Ca2+]0. Gd3+ inhibited the trpl cRNA-induced basal rate of Ca2+ inflow, with a concentration of approx. 5 microM Gd3+ giving half-maximal inhibition. Expression of trpl cRNA also caused an increase in the basal rate of Mn2+ inflow. The increases in resting [Ca2+]1 and in the basal rate of Ca2+ inflow induced by expression of trpl cRNA were inhibited by the calmodulin inhibitors W13, calmodazolium and peptide (281-309) of (Ca2+ and calmodulin)-dependent protein kinase II. A low concentration of exogenous calmodulin (introduced by microinjection) activated, and a higher concentration inhibited, the trpl cRNA-induced increase in basal rate of Ca2+ inflow. The action of the high concentration of exogenous calmodulin was reversed by W13 and calmodazolium. When rates of Ca2+ inflow in trpl-cRNA-injected oocytes were compared with those in mock-injected oocytes, the guanosine 5'-[beta-thio]diphosphate-stimulated rate was greater, the onset of thapsigargin-stimulated initial rate somewhat delayed and the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-stimulated initial rate markedly inhibited. It is concluded that (1) the divalent cation channel activity of the Drosophila Trpl protein can be detected in Xenopus oocytes: (2) in the environment of the Xenopus oocyte the Trpl channel admits some Mn2+ as well as Ca2+, is activated by cytoplasmic free Ca2+ (through endogenous calmodulin) and by a trimeric GTP-binding regulatory protein, but does not appear to be activated by depletion of Ca2+ in the endoplasmic reticulum; and (3) expression of the Trpl protein inhibits the process by which the release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores activates endogenous store-activated Ca2+ channels.

trp, a novel mammalian gene family essential for agonist-activated capacitative Ca2+ entry

SUMMARY

Capacitative calcium entry (CCE) describes CA2+ influx into cells that replenishes CA2+ stores emptied through the action of IP3 and other agents. It is an essential component of cellular responses to many hormones and growth factors. The molecular basis of this form of Ca2+ entry is complex and may involve more than one type of channel. Studies on visual signal transduction in Drosophila led to the hypothesis that a protein encoded in trp may be a component of CCE channels. We reported the existence of six trp-related genes in the mouse genome. Expression in L cells of small portions of these genes in antisense orientation suppressed CCE. Expression in COS cells of two full-length cDNAs encoding human trp homologs, Htrp1 and Htrp3, increased CCE. This identifies mammalian gene products that participate in CCE. We propose that trp homologs are subunits of CCE channels, not unlike those of classical voltage-gated ion channels.

Injection of rat hepatocyte poly(A)+ RNA to Xenopus laevis oocytes leads to expression of a constitutively-active divalent cation channel distinguishable from endogenous receptor-activated channels

The expression of hepatocyte plasma membrane receptor-activated divalent cation channels in immature (stages V and VI) Xenopus laevis oocytes and the properties which allow these channels to be distinguished from endogenous receptor-activated divalent cation channels were investigated. Divalent cation inflow to oocytes housed in a multiwell plate was measured using the fluorescent dyes Fluo-3 and Fura-2. In control oocytes, ionomycin, cholera toxin, thapsigargin, 3-fluoro-inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3F) and guanosine 5'-[gamma-thio]triphosphate (GTP gamma S) stimulated Ca2+ and Mn2+ inflow following addition of these ions to the oocytes. Ionomycin-, cholera-toxin-, thapsigargin- and InsP3F-stimulated Ca2+ inflow was inhibited by Gd3+ (half maximal inhibition at less thari 5 microM Gd3+ for InsP3F-stimulated Ca2+ inflow). GTP gamma S-stimulated Ca2+ inflow was insensitive to 50 microM Gd3+ and to SK&F 96365. These results indicate that at least three types of endogenous receptor-activated Ca2+ channels can be detected in Xenopus oocytes using Ca(2+)-sensitive fluorescent dyes: lanthanide-sensitive divalent cation channels activated by intracellular Ca2+ store depletion, lanthanide-sensitive divalent cation channels activated by cholera toxin, and lanthanide-insensitive divalent cation channels activated by an unknown trimeric G-protein. Oocytes microinjected with rat hepatocyte poly(A)+ RNA exhibited greater rates of Ca2+ and Mn2+ inflow in the basal (no agonist) state, greater rates of Ca2+ inflow in the presence of vasopressin or InsP3F and greater rates of Ba2+ inflow in the presence of InsP3F, when compared with "mock"-injected oocytes. In poly(A)+ RNA-injected oocytes, vasopressin- and InsP3F-stimulated Ca2+ inflow, but not basal Ca2+ inflow, was inhibited by Gd3+. It is concluded that at least one type of hepatocyte plasma membrane divalent cation channel, which admits Mn2+ as well as Ca2+ and is lanthanide-insensitive, can be expressed and detected in Xenopus oocytes.

Evidence that the pertussis toxin-sensitive trimeric GTP-binding protein Gi2 is required for agonist- and store-activated Ca2+ inflow in hepatocytes

The role of a trimeric GTP-binding protein (G-protein) in the mechanism of vasopressin-dependent Ca2+ inflow in hepatocytes was investigated using both antibodies against the carboxyl termini of trimeric G-protein alpha subunits, and carboxyl-terminal alpha-subunit synthetic peptides. An anti-Gi1-2 alpha antibody and a Gi2 alpha peptide (Gi2 alpha) Ile345-Phe355), but not a Gi3 alpha peptide (Gi3 alpha Ile344-Phe354), inhibited vasopressin- and thapsigargin-stimulated Ca2+ inflow, had no effect on vasopressin-stimulated release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores, and caused partial inhibition of thapsigargin-stimulated release of Ca2+. An anti-Gq alpha antibody also inhibited vasopressin-stimulated Ca2+ inflow and partially inhibited vasopressin-induced release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. Immunofluorescence measurements showed that Gi2 alpha is distributed throughout much of the interior of the hepatocyte as well as at the periphery of the cell. By contrast, Gq/11 alpha was found principally at the cell periphery. It is concluded that the trimeric G-protein, Gi2, is required for store-activated Ca2+ inflow in hepatocytes and acts between the release of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum (presumably adjacent to the plasma membrane) and the receptor-activated Ca2+ channel protein(s) in the plasma membrane.

Evidence obtained using single hepatocytes for inhibition by the phospholipase C inhibitor U73122 of store-operated Ca2+ inflow

The ability of 1-[6-[[17 beta-3-methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17- yl]amino]hexyl]-1H-pyrrole-2,5-dione (U73122), an inhibitor of phospholipase C (Smith et al., J Pharmacol Exp Ther 253:688-697, 1992), to inhibit agonist-stimulated and store-operated Ca2+ inflow in single hepatocytes was investigated with the aim of testing whether the activation of phospholipase C is a necessary step in the process of agonist-stimulated Ca2+ inflow in this cell type. U73122 inhibited the release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores and plasma membrane Ca2+ inflow induced by vasopressin. An inactive analogue of U73122, 1-[6-[[17 beta-3-methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17-yl]amino]hexyl]- 2,5-pyrrolidone-dione (U73433), did not inhibit vasopressin-induced release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores, but did partially inhibit Ca2+ inflow. Neither U73122 nor 'inactive' analogue U73433 inhibited the release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores when this was initiated by the photolysis of 'caged' guanosine (5'-[gamma-thio]triphosphate (GTP gamma S) introduced to the cytoplasmic space by microinjection. However, both compounds inhibited GTP gamma S-stimulated Ca2+ inflow. U73122 also inhibited the actions of glycerophosphoryl-myo-inositol-4,5-diphosphate (GPIP2), a slowly-hydrolysed analogue of inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (InsP3) which is released by photolysis of 'caged' 1-(alpha-glycerophosphoryl)-myo-inositol-4,5-diphosphate, P4(5)-1-(2-nitrophenyl)ethyl ester, and thapsigargin in stimulating Ca2+ inflow. U73122 did not inhibit GPIP2-stimulated release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores, but did partially inhibit the ability of thapsigargin to induce Ca2+ release. It is concluded that, while U73122 does inhibit phospholipase C beta in hepatocytes, complete inhibition of this enzyme in situ requires an intracellular concentration of U73122 higher than that achieved in the present experiments. Moreover, both U73122 and 'inactive' analogue U73433 have one or possibly two additional sites of action. These are likely to be the hepatocyte plasma membrane Ca2+ inflow channel protein (or a protein involved in the activation of this channel by the InsP3-sensitive intracellular Ca2+ store), and a protein involved in thapsigargin action.

Role of heterotrimeric G-proteins in epidermal growth factor signalling

Since in 1986 it was reported that a pertussis toxin-sensitive substrate was involved in the Ca2+ signal induced by epidermal growth factor (EGF) in rat hepatocytes, much evidence accumulated to implicate heterotrimeric G-proteins in EGF action. EGF can also induce a cyclic AMP signal, but while the generation of a Ca2+ signal appears to be quite general in EGF action, the increase in cyclic AMP occurs only in few cell types. In non-transformed cell types these effects appear to involve G-proteins. EGF not only induces cell proliferation but also interacts with hormones in the short-term control of cell function in quiescent cells. Most of the known interactions are on cyclic AMP mediated hormone effects, and in many cases, the interaction between EGF and hormones involves G-proteins. Here we review the evidence accumulated in recent years that implicate G-proteins in EGF action. An understanding of the mechanisms involved may reveal new mechanisms of G-protein regulation and will contribute to our knowledge of EGF function and signal transduction.

Calcium inflow in cells transfected with cloned rat and porcine calcitonin receptors

Ca2+ fluxes were examined in HEK 293 cells stably expressing the rat or porcine calcitonin receptors (CTRs). Calcitonin (CT) rapidly increased cytosolic Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) concentrations in these cells in a manner which was sustained in the presence of extracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]e). In cells pretreated with CT, elevation of the [Ca2+]e concentration resulted in a further increase in [Ca2+]i which was concentration-dependent with respect to both the concentration of CT and the increment of [Ca2+]e. Untransfected cells, cells transfected with vector alone, and CTR-transfected cells not treated with CT, were unresponsive to [Ca2+]e. The microsomal Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor thapsigargin was able to mimic both the acute [Ca2+]i fluxes and responsiveness to [Ca2+]e mediated by CT in these cells. The CT-induced responsiveness to [Ca2+]e was neither mimicked by, nor affected by, activators of the cAMP or protein kinase C pathways. Treatment of cells with pertussis toxin influenced neither the primary Ca2+ fluxes in response to CT or thapsigargin nor the agonist-induced [Ca2+]e influx. Nifedipine failed to block responses to either CT or thapsigargin. These results lead to the important conclusion that the CTR participates in receptor-activated Ca2+ inflow, in which depletion of intracellular Ca2+ pools leads secondarily to influx of extracellular Ca2+.

Evidence from studies with hepatocyte suspensions that store-operated Ca2+ inflow requires a pertussis toxin-sensitive trimeric G-protein

The role of heterotrimeric GTP-binding proteins in the process of store-operated Ca2+ inflow in hepatocytes was investigated by testing the ability of pertussis toxin to inhibit thapsigargin- and 2,5-di-tert-butylhydroquinone (DBHQ)-induced bivalent cation inflow. Hepatocytes isolated from rats treated with pertussis toxin for 24 h exhibited markedly inhibited rates of both Ca2+ and Mn2+ inflow when these were stimulated by vasopressin, angiotension II, epidermal growth factor, thapsigargin and DBHQ. Pertussis toxin had little effect on the basal intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), basal rates of Ca2+ and Mn2+ inflow, the abilities of vasopressin, angiotensin II, thapsigargin and DBHQ to induce the release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores, and the maximum value of [Ca2+]i reached following agonist-induced release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. It is concluded that store-operated Ca2+ inflow in hepatocytes employs a slowly ADP-ribosylated trimeric GTP-binding protein and is the physiological mechanism, or one of the physiological mechanisms, by which vasopressin and angiotensin stimulate plasma membrane Ca2+ inflow in this cell type.