Synergistic effects of inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate on inositol 2,4,5-triphosphate-stimulated Ca2+ release do not involve direct interaction of inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate with inositol triphosphate-binding sites

IP3 receptors – lessons from analyses ex cellula

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs) are widely expressed intracellular channels that release Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). We review how studies of IP3Rs removed from their intracellular environment (‘ex cellula’), alongside similar analyses of ryanodine receptors, have contributed to understanding IP3R behaviour. Analyses of permeabilized cells have demonstrated that the ER is the major intracellular Ca2+ store, and that IP3 stimulates Ca2+ release from this store. Radioligand binding confirmed that the 4,5-phosphates of IP3 are essential for activating IP3Rs, and facilitated IP3R purification and cloning, which paved the way for structural analyses. Reconstitution of IP3Rs into lipid bilayers and patch-clamp recording from the nuclear envelope have established that IP3Rs have a large conductance and select weakly between Ca2+ and other cations. Structural analyses are now revealing how IP3 binding to the N-terminus of the tetrameric IP3R opens the pore ∼7 nm away from the IP3-binding core (IBC). Communication between the IBC and pore passes through a nexus of interleaved domains contributed by structures associated with the pore and cytosolic domains, which together contribute to a Ca2+-binding site. These structural analyses provide evidence to support the suggestion that IP3 gates IP3Rs by first stimulating Ca2+ binding, which leads to pore opening and Ca2+ release.

Defining signal transduction by inositol phosphates

Ins(1,4,5)P(3) is a classical intracellular messenger: stimulus-dependent changes in its levels elicits biological effects through its release of intracellular Ca(2+) stores. The Ins(1,4,5)P(3) response is "switched off" by its metabolism to a range of additional inositol phosphates. These metabolites have themselves come to be collectively described as a signaling "family". The validity of that latter definition is critically examined in this review. That is, we assess the strength of the hypothesis that Ins(1,4,5)P(3) metabolites are themselves "classical" signals. Put another way, what is the evidence that the biological function of a particular inositol phosphate depends upon stimulus dependent changes in its levels? In this assessment, examples of an inositol phosphate acting as a cofactor (i.e. its function is not stimulus-dependent) do not satisfy our signaling criteria. We conclude that Ins(3,4,5,6)P(4) is, to date, the only Ins(1,4,5)P(3) metabolite that has been validated to act as a second messenger.

Pharmacology of signaling induced by dopamine D(1)-like receptor activation

Dopamine D(1)-like receptors consisting of D(1) and D(5) subtypes are intimately implicated in dopaminergic regulation of fundamental neurophysiologic processes such as mood, motivation, cognitive function, and motor activity. Upon stimulation, D(1)-like receptors initiate signal transduction cascades that are mediated through adenylyl cyclase or phosphoinositide metabolism, with subsequent enhancement of multiple downstream kinase cascades. The latter actions propagate and further amplify the receptor signals, thus predisposing D(1)-like receptors to multifaceted interactions with various other mediators and receptor systems. The adenylyl cyclase response to dopamine or selective D(1)-like receptor agonists is reliably associated with the D(1) subtype, while emerging evidence indicates that the phosphoinositide responses in native brain tissues may be preferentially mediated through stimulation of the D(5) receptor. Besides classic coupling of each receptor subtype to specific G proteins, additional biophysical models are advanced in attempts to account for differential subcellular distribution, heteromolecular oligomerization, and activity-dependent selectivity of the receptors. It is expected that significant advances in understanding of dopamine neurobiology will emerge from current and anticipated studies directed at uncovering the molecular mechanisms of D(5) coupling to phosphoinositide signaling, the structural features that might enhance pharmacological selectivity for D(5) versus D(1) subtypes, the mechanism by which dopamine may modulate phosphoinositide synthesis, the contributions of the various responsive signal mediators to D(1) or D(5) interactions with D(2)-like receptors, and the spectrum of dopaminergic functions that may be attributed to each receptor subtype and signaling pathway.

The structural integrity of the endoplasmic reticulum, and its possible regulation by inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a dynamic organelle thought to consist of a single interconnected network of membranes. Using fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) of HEK-293 cells dually transfected with soluble fluorescent proteins targeted to the ER (GFP) and mitochondria (DsRed), we have confirmed this continuity, which contrasts that of the mitochondria, which behave as a population of discrete organelles. The degree of ER integrity (interconnected versus fragmented) has been suggested to be regulated in some cells by inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate (Ins(1,3,4,5)P(4)). In HEK-293 and freshly isolated murine lacrimal acinar cells, we manipulated ER structure by disrupting cellular Ca(2+) homeostasis with the Ca(2+) ionophore ionomycin, and by permeabilisation of the plasma membrane, protocols known to cause ER fragmentation. However, we were subsequently unable to detect by FRAP any significant effect of Ins(1,3,4,5)P(4) on ER integrity.

Mechanisms of cross-talk between G-protein-coupled receptors resulting in enhanced release of intracellular Ca2+

Alteration in [Ca(2+)](i) (the intracellular concentration of Ca(2+)) is a key regulator of many cellular processes. To allow precise regulation of [Ca(2+)](i) and a diversity of signalling by this ion, cells possess many mechanisms by which they are able to control [Ca(2+)](i) both globally and at the subcellular level. Among these are many members of the superfamily of GPCRs (G-protein-coupled receptors), which are characterized by the presence of seven transmembrane domains. Typically, those receptors able to activate PLC (phospholipase C) enzymes cause release of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores and influence Ca(2+) entry across the plasma membrane. It has been well documented that Ca(2+) signalling by one type of GPCR can be influenced by stimulation of a different type of GPCR. Indeed, many studies have demonstrated heterologous desensitization between two different PLC-coupled GPCRs. This is not surprising, given our current understanding of negative-feedback regulation and the likely shared components of the signalling pathway. However, there are also many documented examples of interactions between GPCRs, often coupling preferentially to different signalling pathways, which result in a potentiation of Ca(2+) signalling. Such interactions have important implications for both the control of cell function and the interpretation of in vitro cell-based assays. However, there is currently no single mechanism that adequately accounts for all examples of this type of cross-talk. Indeed, many studies either have not addressed this issue or have been unable to determine the mechanism(s) involved. This review seeks to explore a range of possible mechanisms to convey their potential diversity and to provide a basis for further experimental investigation.

Kinetic model of the inositol trisphosphate receptor that shows both steady-state and quantal patterns of Ca2+ release from intracellular stores

The release of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores via InsP(3) receptors shows anomalous kinetics. Successive additions of low concentrations of InsP(3) cause successive rapid transients of Ca(2+) release. These quantal responses have been ascribed to all-or-none release from stores with differing sensitivities to InsP(3) or, alternatively, to a steady-state mechanism where complex kinetic properties of the InsP(3) receptor allow partial emptying of all the stores. We present here an adaptive model of the InsP(3) receptor that can show either pattern, depending on the imposed experimental conditions. The model proposes two interconvertible conformational states of the receptor: one state binds InsP(3) rapidly, but with low affinity, whereas the other state binds slowly, but with high affinity. The model shows repetitive increments of Ca(2+) release in the absence of a Ca(2+) gradient, but more pronounced incremental behaviour when released Ca(2+) builds up at the mouth of the channel. The sensitivity to Ins P (3) is critically dependent on the density of InsP(3) receptors, so that different stores can respond to different concentration ranges of Ins P (3). Since the model generates very high Hill coefficients (h approximately 7), it allows all-or-none release of Ca(2+) from stores of differing receptor density, but questions the validity of the use of h values as a guide to the number of InsP(3) molecules needed to open the channel. The model presents a mechanism for terminating Ca(2+) release in the presence of positive feedback from released Ca(2+), thereby providing an explanation of why elementary Ca(2+) signals ('blips' and 'puffs') do not inevitably turn into regenerative waves.

Analyzing the role of the putative inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate receptor GAP1IP4BP in intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis

Inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate (IP(4)) has been linked to a potential role in the regulation of intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) following cellular stimulation with agonists that activate phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C. However, despite many studies, the function of IP(4) remains unclear and indeed there is still some debate over whether it has a function at all. Here we have used various molecular approaches to address whether manipulation of the potential IP(4) receptor, GAP1(IP4BP), affects [Ca(2+)](i) following cellular stimulation. Using single cell imaging, we show that the overexpression of a constitutively active and a potential dominant negative form of GAP1(IP4BP) appear to have no effect on Ca(2+) mobilization or Ca(2+) entry following stimulation of HeLa cells with histamine. In addition, through the use of small interfering RNA duplexes, we have examined the effect of suppressing endogenous GAP1(IP4BP) production on [Ca(2+)](i). In HeLa cells in which the endogenous level of GAP1(IP4BP) has been suppressed by approximately 95%, we failed to observe any effect on Ca(2+) mobilization or Ca(2+) entry following histamine stimulation. Thus, using various approaches to manipulate the function of endogenous GAP1(IP4BP) in intact HeLa cells, we have been unable to observe any detectable effect of GAP1(IP4BP) on [Ca(2+)](i).

Activin/TGF-beta induce apoptosis through Smad-dependent expression of the lipid phosphatase SHIP

Members of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) family regulate fundamental physiological processes, such as cell growth, differentiation and apoptosis, in almost all cell types. As a result, defects in TGF-beta signalling pathways have been linked to uncontrolled cellular proliferation and carcinogenesis. Here, we explored the signal transduction mechanisms downstream of the activin/TGF-beta receptors that result in cell growth arrest and apoptosis. We show that in haematopoietic cells, TGF-beta family members regulate apoptosis through expression of the inositol phosphatase SHIP (Src homology 2 (SH2) domain-containing 5' inositol phosphatase), a central regulator of phospholipid metabolism. We also demonstrated that the Smad pathway is required in the transcriptional regulation of the SHIP gene. Activin/TGF-beta-induced expression of SHIP results in intracellular changes in the pool of phospholipids, as well as in inhibition of both Akt/PKB (protein kinase B) phosphorylation and cell survival. Our results link phospholipid metabolism to activin/TGF-beta-mediated apoptosis and define TGF-beta family members as potent inducers of SHIP expression.

Tissue distribution of GAP1(IP4BP) and GAP1(m): two inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate-binding proteins

Two members of the GAP1 family, GAP1(IP4BP) and GAP1(m), have been shown to bind the putative second messenger Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 with high affinity and specificity, though other aspects of their behaviour suggest that in vivo, whereas GAP1(IP4BP) may function as an Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 receptor, GAP1(m) may be a receptor for the lipid second messenger PtdIns(3,4,5)P3. As a step towards clarifying their cellular roles, we describe here how we have raised and characterised antisera that are specific for the two proteins, and used these to undertake a comprehensive study of their tissue distribution. Both proteins are widely expressed, but there are several clear differences between them in the tissues that show the highest levels of expression.

Back in the water: the return of the inositol phosphates

Following the discovery of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate as a second messenger, many other inositol phosphates were discovered in quick succession, with some understanding of their synthesis pathways and a few guesses at their possible functions. But then it all seemed to go comparatively quiet, with an explosion of interest in the inositol lipids. Now the water-soluble phase is once again becoming a focus of interest. Old and new data point to a new vista of inositol phosphates, with functions in many diverse aspects of cell biology, such as ion-channel physiology, membrane dynamics and nuclear signalling.

Inositol phosphates: Does IP(4) run a protection racket?

The phosphorylation of IP(3) by IP(3) 3-kinase leads to a number of physiological events, most of which are poorly understood. Recent findings about a hitherto unsuspected action of the IP(3) 3-kinase product, IP(4), suggest that the evolution of IP(3) 3-kinase may have even more far-reaching consequences than we thought.

GAP1IP4BP contains a novel group I pleckstrin homology domain that directs constitutive plasma membrane association

The group I family of pleckstrin homology (PH) domains are characterized by their inherent ability to specifically bind phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PtdIns(3,4,5)P(3)) and its corresponding inositol head-group inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate (Ins(1,3,4,5)P(4)). In vivo this interaction results in the regulated plasma membrane recruitment of cytosolic group I PH domain-containing proteins following agonist-stimulated PtdIns(3,4,5)P(3) production. Among group I PH domain-containing proteins, the Ras GTPase-activating protein GAP1(IP4BP) is unique in being constitutively associated with the plasma membrane. Here we show that, although the GAP1(IP4BP) PH domain interacts with PtdIns(3,4, 5)P(3), it also binds, with a comparable affinity, phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns(4,5)P(2)) (K(d) values of 0.5 +/- 0.2 and 0.8 +/- 0.5 microm, respectively). Intriguingly, whereas this binding site overlaps with that for Ins(1,3,4,5)P(4), consistent with the constitutive plasma membrane association of GAP1(IP4BP) resulting from its PH domain-binding PtdIns(4,5)P(2), we show that in vivo depletion of PtdIns(4,5)P(2), but not PtdIns(3,4,5)P(3), results in dissociation of GAP1(IP4BP) from this membrane. Thus, the Ins(1,3,4,5)P(4)-binding PH domain from GAP1(IP4BP) defines a novel class of group I PH domains that constitutively targets the protein to the plasma membrane and may allow GAP1(IP4BP) to be regulated in vivo by Ins(1,3,4,5)P(4) rather than PtdIns(3,4,5)P(3).

Molecular modelling and site-directed mutagenesis of the inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate-binding pleckstrin homology domain from the Ras GTPase-activating protein GAP1IP4BP

GAP1(IP4BP) is a Ras GTPase-activating protein (GAP) that in vitro is regulated by the cytosolic second messenger inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate [Ins(1,3,4,5)P(4)]. We have studied Ins(1,3,4,5)P(4) binding to GAP1(IP4BP), and shown that the inositol phosphate specificity and binding affinity are similar to Ins(1,3,4,5)P(4) binding to Bruton's tyrosine kinase (Btk), evidence which suggests a similar mechanism for Ins(1,3,4,5)P(4) binding. The crystal structure of the Btk pleckstrin homology (PH) domain in complex with Ins(1,3,4,5)P(4) has shown that the binding site is located in a partially buried pocket between the beta 1/beta 2- and beta 3/beta 4-loops. Many of the residues involved in the binding are conserved in GAP1(IP4BP). Therefore we generated a model of the PH domain of GAP1(IP4BP) in complex with Ins(1,3,4,5)P(4) based on the Btk-Ins(1,3,4,5)P(4) complex crystal structure. This model had the typical PH domain fold, with the proposed binding site modelling well on the Btk structure. The model has been verified by site-directed mutagenesis of various residues in and around the proposed binding site. These mutations have markedly reduced affinity for Ins(1,3,4,5)P(4), indicating a specific and tight fit for the substrate. The model can also be used to explain the specificity of inositol phosphate binding.

Distinct localization and function of1,4,5IP3 receptor subtypes and the1,3,4,5IP4 receptor GAP1IP4BP in highly purified human platelet membranes

Platelet activation is associated with an increase of cytosolic Ca++ levels. The 1,4,5IP3receptors [1,4,5IP3R] are known to mediate Ca++ release from intracellular stores of many cell types. Currently there are at least 3 distinct subtypes of1,4,5IP3R—type I, type II, and type III—with suggestions of distinct roles in Ca++ elevation. Specific receptors for 1,3,4,5IP4 belonging to the GAP1 family have also been described though their involvement with Ca++ regulation is controversial. In this study we report that platelets contain all 3 subtypes of1,4,5IP3R but in different amounts. Type I and type II receptors are predominant. In studies using highly purified platelet plasma (PM) and intracellular membranes (IM) we report a distinct localization of these receptors. The PM fractions were found to contain the type III 1,4,5IP3R and GAP1IP4BP in contrast to IM, which contained type I1,4,5IP3R. The type II receptor exhibited a dual distribution. In studies examining the labeling of surface proteins with biotin in intact platelets only the type III1,4,5IP3R was significantly labeled. Immunogold studies of ultracryosections of human platelets showed significantly more labeling of the PM with the type III receptor antibodies than with type I receptor antibodies. Ca++ flux studies were carried out with the PM to demonstrate in vitro function of inositol phosphate receptors. Ca++ release activities were present with both 1,4,5IP3 and1,3,4,5IP4 (EC50 = 1.3 and 0.8 μmol/L, respectively). Discrimination of the Ca++-releasing activities was demonstrated with cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-dependent protein kinase (cAMP-PK) specifically inhibiting 1,4,5IP3 but not1,3,4,5IP4-induced Ca++ flux. In experiments with both PM and intact platelets, the1,4,5IP3Rs but not GAP1IP4BP were found to be substrates of cAMP-PK and cGMP-PK. Thus the Ca++ flux property of1,3,4,5IP4 is insensitive to cAMP-PK. These studies suggest distinct roles for the1,4,5IP3R subtypes in Ca++movements, with the type III receptor and GAP1IP4BPassociated with cation entry in human platelets and the type I receptor involved with Ca++ release from intracellular stores.

Distinct localization and function of1,4,5IP3 receptor subtypes and the1,3,4,5IP4 receptor GAP1IP4BP in highly purified human platelet membranes

Platelet activation is associated with an increase of cytosolic Ca++ levels. The 1,4,5IP3receptors [1,4,5IP3R] are known to mediate Ca++ release from intracellular stores of many cell types. Currently there are at least 3 distinct subtypes of1,4,5IP3R—type I, type II, and type III—with suggestions of distinct roles in Ca++ elevation. Specific receptors for 1,3,4,5IP4 belonging to the GAP1 family have also been described though their involvement with Ca++ regulation is controversial. In this study we report that platelets contain all 3 subtypes of1,4,5IP3R but in different amounts. Type I and type II receptors are predominant. In studies using highly purified platelet plasma (PM) and intracellular membranes (IM) we report a distinct localization of these receptors. The PM fractions were found to contain the type III 1,4,5IP3R and GAP1IP4BP in contrast to IM, which contained type I1,4,5IP3R. The type II receptor exhibited a dual distribution. In studies examining the labeling of surface proteins with biotin in intact platelets only the type III1,4,5IP3R was significantly labeled. Immunogold studies of ultracryosections of human platelets showed significantly more labeling of the PM with the type III receptor antibodies than with type I receptor antibodies. Ca++ flux studies were carried out with the PM to demonstrate in vitro function of inositol phosphate receptors. Ca++ release activities were present with both 1,4,5IP3 and1,3,4,5IP4 (EC50 = 1.3 and 0.8 μmol/L, respectively). Discrimination of the Ca++-releasing activities was demonstrated with cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-dependent protein kinase (cAMP-PK) specifically inhibiting 1,4,5IP3 but not1,3,4,5IP4-induced Ca++ flux. In experiments with both PM and intact platelets, the1,4,5IP3Rs but not GAP1IP4BP were found to be substrates of cAMP-PK and cGMP-PK. Thus the Ca++ flux property of1,3,4,5IP4 is insensitive to cAMP-PK. These studies suggest distinct roles for the1,4,5IP3R subtypes in Ca++movements, with the type III receptor and GAP1IP4BPassociated with cation entry in human platelets and the type I receptor involved with Ca++ release from intracellular stores.

The effect of inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate on inositol trisphosphate-induced Ca2+ mobilization in freshly isolated and cultured mouse lacrimal acinar cells

Earlier reports have shown a remarkable synergism between InsP(4) and InsP(3) [either Ins(1,4,5)P(3) or Ins(2,4,5)P(3)] in activating Ca(2+)-dependent K(+) and Cl(-) currents in mouse lacrimal cells [Changya, Gallacher, Irvine, Potter and Petersen (1989) J. Membr. Biol. 109, 85-93; Smith (1992) Biochem. J. 283, 27-30]. However, Bird, Rossier, Hughes, Shears, Armstrong and Putney [(1991) Nature (London) 352, 162-165] reported that they could see no such synergism in the same cell type. A major experimental difference between the two laboratories lies in whether or not the cells were maintained in primary culture before use. Here we have compared directly the responses to inositol polyphosphates in freshly isolated cells versus cells cultured for 6-72 h. In the cultured cells, Ins(2,4,5)P(3) at 100 microM produced a robust stimulation of K(+) and Cl(-) currents, as much as an order of magnitude greater than that observed in the freshly isolated cells. However, the freshly isolated cells could be restored to a sensitivity similar to cultured cells by the addition of InsP(4) at a concentration two orders of magnitude lower than that of Ins(2,4,5)P(3). We discuss the implications of this with respect to the actions of InsP(4), including the possibility that disruption of the cellular structure during the isolation of the cells exposes an extreme manifestation of a possible physiological role for InsP(4) in controlling calcium-store integrity.

Dual regulation of calcium mobilization by inositol 1,4, 5-trisphosphate in a living cell

Changes in cytosolic free calcium ([Ca(2+)](i)) often take the form of a sustained response or repetitive oscillations. The frequency and amplitude of [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations are essential for the selective stimulation of gene expression and for enzyme activation. However, the mechanism that determines whether [Ca(2+)](i) oscillates at a particular frequency or becomes a sustained response is poorly understood. We find that [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations in rat megakaryocytes, as in other cells, results from a Ca(2+)-dependent inhibition of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3))-induced Ca(2+) release. Moreover, we find that this inhibition becomes progressively less effective with higher IP(3) concentrations. We suggest that disinhibition, by increasing IP(3) concentration, of Ca(2+)-dependent inhibition is a common mechanism for the regulation of [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations in cells containing IP(3)-sensitive Ca(2+) stores.

Localization of mRNA for SHIP2, SH2 domain-containing inositol polyphosphate 5-phosphatase, in the brain of developing and mature rats

The localization of mRNA for SHIP2, SH2 domain containing inositol 5-phosphatase SHIP isozyme, was examined by in situ hybridization histochemistry in the brain of developing and mature rats. SHIP2 mRNA was first detected in the ventricular germinal zone at embryonic stages. As the postnatal development proceeded, the expression signal was evident in cell of the white matters, presumptive oligodendrocytes, and no significant expression was seen in neurons throughout the development.

Expression level of inositol trisphosphate and inositol tetrakisphosphate receptors and their influence on Ca2+ release in permeabilized HL-60 and T15 cells

To try to further define the mechanism of action of the putative second messenger inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate (InsP4), we have studied its effects in permeabilized cells expressing different levels of inositol trisphosphate receptor (InsP3R) types I and III and of the GTPase-activating protein GAP1IP4BP. During the growth curve of human HL-60 cells and mouse T15 cells there was an increase in these proteins, which was further increased by differentiation (HL-60) and, marginally, by transformation (T15). T15 cells entering the stationary phase showed much lower concentrations of these proteins and expression was below detection in apoptotic HL-60 cells. Rasp21 showed a different pattern of expression. The ratios of InsP3R subtypes seem to affect the dose-response curve for inositol 2,4,5-trisphosphate Ins(2,4,5)P3. In permeabilized T15 cells the curve was approximately 5-fold to the right of that obtained using HL-60 cells. However, permeabilized untreated and differentiated HL-60 cells and T15 cells all showed a comparable synergistic effect of InsP4 on Ca2+ release stimulated by a concentration of Ins(2,4,5)P3, releasing approximately 20% of the Ins(1,4,5)P3 sensitive Ca2+ pool. The data indicate that under these conditions InsP4 is acting independently of cell type, of the ratio of inositol trisphosphate receptor subtypes, and of the concentration of GAP1IP4BP.

The role of SHIP in growth factor induced signalling

The recently cloned, hemopoietic-specific, src homology 2 (SH2)-containing inositol phosphatase, SHIP, is rapidly gaining prominence as a potential regulator of all phosphatidylinositol (PI)-3 kinase mediated events since it has been shown both in vitro and in vivo to hydrolyze the 5' phosphate from phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate (PI-3,4,5-P3). Thus SHIP, and its more widely expressed counterpart, SHIP2, could play a central role in determining PI-3,4,5-P3 and PI-3,4-P2 levels in many cell types. To explore the in vivo function of SHIP further we recently generated a SHIP knock out mouse and in this review we discuss experiments carried out with bone marrow derived mast cells (BMMCs) from these animals.

Inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate as a second messenger--a special role in neurones?

There has been much controversy over the possibility that inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate (InsP4) may have a second messenger function. A possible resolution to this controversy may stem from the recent cloning of two putative receptors for InsP4, GAP1IP4BP and GAP1m. Both these proteins are expressed at high levels in neurones, as is inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate 3-kinase, the enzyme that makes InsP4. In this review we discuss the possible relevance of these high expression levels to the complex way in which neurones control Ca2+ and use it as a second messenger.

Protein-protein interactions in intracellular Ca2+-release channel function

Release of Ca2+ ions from intracellular stores can occur via two classes of Ca2+-release channel (CRC) protein, the inositol 1,4, 5-trisphosphate receptors (InsP3Rs) and the ryanodine receptors (RyRs). Multiple isoforms and subtypes of each CRC class display distinct but overlapping distributions within mammalian tissues. InsP3Rs and RyRs interact with a plethora of accessory proteins which modulate the activity of their intrinsic channels. Although many aspects of CRC structure and function have been reviewed in recent years, the properties of proteins with which they interact has not been comprehensively surveyed, despite extensive current research on the roles of these modulators. The aim of this article is to review the regulation of CRC activity by accessory proteins and, wherever possible, to outline the structural details of such interactions. The CRCs are large transmembrane proteins, with the bulk of their structure located cytoplasmically. Intra- and inter-complex protein-protein interactions between these cytoplasmic domains also regulate CRC function. Some accessory proteins modulate channel activity of all CRC subtypes characterized, whereas other have class- or even isoform-specific effects. Certain accessory proteins exert both direct and indirect forms of regulation on CRCs, occasionally with opposing effects. Others are themselves modulated by changes in Ca2+ concentration, thereby participating in feedback mechanisms acting on InsP3R and RyR activity. CRCs are therefore capable of integrating numerous signalling events within a cell by virtue of such protein-protein interactions. Consequently, the functional properties of InsP3Rs and RyRs within particular cells and subcellular domains are 'customized' by the accessory proteins present.

Immunohistochemical localization of the INsP4 receptor GTPase-activating protein GAP1IP4BP in the rat brain

The distribution of GAP1(IP4BP), a GTPase-activating protein showing high affinity and stereospecificity for inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate (InsP4), was investigated by Western blot and immunohistochemistry of rodent brain with polyclonal antibodies generated against the carboxy-terminus of the cloned protein. GAP1(IP4BP)-like immunoreactivity was found throughout the brain, most notably in the pyriform cortex, neocortex, hippocampus, striatum, and cerebellar cortex. However, the most striking immunolabeling was consistently localized to area CA1 of the hippocampus and the central, medial, and intercalated nuclei of the amygdala. Western blot analysis of the corresponding brain regions corroborated these immunohistochemical observations. The regionally specific expression of GAP1(IP4BP) provides the prerequisite neuroanatomical substrate toward elucidating the functional role of InsP4 and GAP1(IP4BP) in the central nervous system.

Serotonin induces an increase in D-myo-inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate 3-kinase activity in rat brainstem slices

Serotonin robustly potentiated the activity of the InsP3 3-kinase in rat brainstem slices. This potentiation was mediated through activation of 5-HT2 receptors since it was only retrieved with the selective 5-HT2 agonist DOI but not with the 5-HT1A agonist 8OHDPAT. The enhancement of the InsP3 3-kinase activity by serotonin is positively modulated by pretreatment of the slices with the phosphatase inhibitor okadaic acid. Moreover, the specific CaMKII antagonists KN-62 and KN-93 dramatically reduced the serotonin-evoked increase in the InsP3 3-kinase activity. It is thus concluded that InsP3 3-kinase up-regulation occurs through activation of PLC-coupled serotoninergic receptors and requires the phosphorylation of the enzyme by the ubiquitous multimeric protein kinase CaMKII.

Kinetics of elementary Ca2+ puffs evoked in Xenopus oocytes by different Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptor agonists

Elementary Ca2+ puffs form the basic building blocks of global Ins(1, 4,5)P3-evoked Ca2+ signals. In Xenopus oocytes, Ca2+ puffs evoked by the high-affinity agonist adenophostin were shorter and smaller than puffs evoked by Ins(1,4,5)P3 and the lower affinity analogue Ins(2,4, 5)P3. Agonist-specific mechanisms, therefore, play a role in shaping local Ca2+ release events, but termination of Ca2+ flux is not delimited simply by agonist dissociation.

Modulation of Ins(2,4,5)P3-stimulated Ca2+ mobilization by ins(1,3,4, 5)P4: enhancement by activated G-proteins, and evidence for the involvement of a GAP1 protein, a putative Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 receptor

We have previously shown that addition of Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 to permeabilized L1210 cells increases the amount of Ca2+ mobilized by a submaximal concentration of Ins(2,4,5)P3, and we suggested that, in doing this, Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 is not working via an InsP3 receptor but indirectly via an InsP4 receptor [Loomis-Husselbee, Cullen, Dreikhausen, Irvine and Dawson (1996) Biochem. J. 314, 811-816]. Here we have investigated whether this effect might be mediated by GAP1(IP4BP), recently identified as a putative receptor for Ins(1,3, 4,5)P4. GAP1(IP4BP) is a protein that interacts with one or more monomeric G-proteins, so we sought evidence for involvement of monomeric G-proteins in the effects of Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 in permeabilized L1210 cells. Guanosine 5'-[gamma-thio]triphosphate (GTP[S]) enhanced the effect of Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 on Ins(2,4, 5)P3-stimulated Ca2+ mobilization, but had no effect on the action of Ins(2,4,5)P3 alone. A specific enhancement of only the action of Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 was also seen with GTP[S]-loaded R-Ras or Rap1a (two G-proteins known to interact with GAP1(IP4BP)), whereas H-Ras was inactive at similar concentrations. Guanosine 5'-[beta-thio]diphosphate (GDP[S]) did not alter the action of either Ins(2,4,5)P3 or Ins(1,3,4,5)P4. Finally, the addition of exogenous GAP1(IP4BP), purified from platelets, markedly enhanced the effect of Ins(1,3,4,5)P4, and again, the amount of Ca2+ mobilized by Ins(2,4,5)P3 alone was unaltered. We conclude that the increase in Ins(2,4,5)P3-stimulated Ca2+ mobilization by Ins(1,3,4, 5)P4 may be mediated by GAP1(IP4BP) or a closely related protein (such as GAP1(m)), and if so, the action of the GAP1 is not solely to regulate GTP loading of a G-protein, but rather it acts with a G-protein to cause its effect.

Inositol trisphosphate mediates a RAS-independent response to LET-23 receptor tyrosine kinase activation in C. elegans

Activity of LET-23, the C. elegans homolog of the epidermal growth factor receptor, is required in multiple tissues. RAS activation is necessary and sufficient for certain LET-23 functions. We show that an inositol trisphosphate receptor can act as a RAS-independent, tissue-specific positive effector of LET-23. Moreover, an inositol trisphosphate kinase negatively regulates this transduction pathway. Signals transduced by LET-23 control ovulation through changes in spermathecal dilation, possibly dependent upon calcium release regulated by both IP3 and IP4. Our results demonstrate that one mechanism by which receptor tyrosine kinases can evoke tissue-specific responses is through activation of distinct signal transduction cascades in different tissues.

Metabolism of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate by the oocytes of Xenopus laevis

The pathway and kinetics of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) metabolism were measured in Xenopus laevis oocytes and cytoplasmic extracts of oocytes. Degradation of microinjected IP3 in intact oocytes was similar to that in the extracts containing comparable concentrations of IP3 ([IP3]). The rate and route of metabolism of IP3 depended on the [IP3] and the intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]). At low [IP3] (100 nM) and high [Ca2+] (>/=1 microM), IP3 was metabolized predominantly by inositol 1,4, 5-trisphosphate 3-kinase (3-kinase) with a half-life of 60 s. As the [IP3] was increased, inositol polyphosphate 5-phosphatase (5-phosphatase) degraded progressively more IP3. At a [IP3] of 8 microM or greater, the dephosphorylation of IP3 was the dominant mode of IP3 removal irrespective of the [Ca2+]. At low [IP3] and low [Ca2+] (both </=400 nM), the activities of the 5-phosphatase and 3-kinase were comparable. The calculated range of action of IP3 in the oocyte was approximately 300 micron suggesting that IP3 acts as a global messenger in oocytes. In contrast to IP3, inositol 1,3,4, 5-tetrakisphosphate (IP4) was metabolized very slowly. The half-life of IP4 (100 nM) was 30 min and independent of the [Ca2+]. IP4 may act to sustain Ca2+ signals initiated by IP3. The half-life of both IP3 and IP4 in Xenopus oocytes was an order of magnitude or greater than that in small mammalian cells.

Metabolic evidence for PtdIns(4,5)P2-directed phospholipase C in permeabilized plant protoplasts

Comparison of the sequences of the genes encoding phospholipase C (PLC) which have been cloned to date in plants with their mammalian counterparts suggests that plant PLC is similar to PLCdelta of mammalian cells. The physiological role and mechanism of activation of PLCdelta is unclear. It has recently been shown that Ins(1,4,5)P3 may not solely be the product of PtdIns(4,5)P2-directed PLC activity. Enzyme activities capable of producing Ins(1,4,5)P3 from endogenous inositol phosphates are present in Dictyostelium and also in rat liver. Significantly it has not been directly determined whether Ins(1,4,5)P3 present in higher plants is the product of a PtdIns(4, 5)P2-directed PLC activity. Therefore we have developed an experimental strategy for the identification of d-Ins(1,4,5)P3 in higher plants. By the use of a short-term non-equilibrium labelling strategy in permeabilized plant protoplasts, coupled to the use of a 'metabolic trap' to prevent degradation of [32P]Ins(1,4,5)P3, we were able to determine the distribution of 32P in individual phosphate esters of Ins(1,4,5)P3. The [32]Ins(1,4,5)P3 identified showed the same distribution of label in individual phosphate esters as that of [32P]PtdIns(4,5)P2 isolated from the same tissue. We thus provide in vivo evidence for the action of a PtdIns(4,5)P2-directed PLC activity in plant cells which is responsible for the production of Ins(1,4,5)P3 observed here. This observation does not, however, exclude the possibility that in other cells or under different conditions Ins(1,4,5)P3 can be generated by alternative routes.

D-myo-inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate 3-kinase A is activated by receptor activation through a calcium:calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II phosphorylation mechanism

D-myo-inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate [Ins(1,4,5)P3] 3-kinase, the enzyme responsible for production of D-myo-inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate, was activated 3- to 5-fold in homogenates of rat brain cortical slices after incubation with carbachol. The effect was reproduced in response to UTP in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells overexpressing Ins(1,4,5)P3 3-kinase A, the major isoform present in rat and human neuronal cells. In ortho-32P-labelled cells, the phosphorylated 53 kDa enzyme could be identified after receptor activation by immunoprecipitation. The time course of phosphorylation was very similar to that observed for carbachol (or UTP)-induced enzyme activation. Enzyme phosphorylation was prevented in the presence of okadaic acid. Calmodulin (CaM) kinase II inhibitors (i.e. KN-93 and KN-62) prevented phosphorylation of Ins(1,4,5)P3 3-kinase. Identification of the phosphorylation site in transfected CHO cells indicated that the phosphorylated residue was Thr311. This residue of the human brain sequence lies in an active site peptide segment corresponding to a CaM kinase II-mediated phosphorylation consensus site, i.e. Arg-Ala-Val-Thr. The same residue in Ins(1,4,5)P3 3-kinase A was also phosphorylated in vitro by CaM kinase II. Phosphorylation resulted in 8- to 10-fold enzyme activation and a 25-fold increase in sensitivity to the Ca2+:CaM complex. In this study, direct evidence is provided for a novel regulation mechanism for Ins(1,4,5)P3 3-kinase (isoform A) in vitro and in intact cells.

Rapid kinetic measurements of 45Ca2+ mobilization reveal that Ins(2,4,5)P3 is a partial agonist at hepatic InsP3 receptors

Ins(2,4,5)P3, a metabolically stable analogue of Ins(1,4,5)P3, is widely used in analyses of Ca2+ signalling pathways, but its utility depends upon it faithfully mimicking the effects of the natural messenger, Ins(1,4,5)P3, at InsP3 receptors. To compare the kinetics of InsP3-evoked 45Ca2+ mobilization, Ins(1,4,5)P3- and Ins(2,4,5)P3-stimulated 45Ca2+ release from the intracellular stores of permeabilized rat hepatocytes was measured using rapid superfusion. Both Ins(1,4,5)P3 and Ins(2,4,5)P3 caused concentration-dependent increases in the rate of 45Ca2+ efflux, which accelerated towards a peak and then abruptly switched to a bi-exponentially decaying release rate. However, the peak rate of 45Ca2+ mobilization evoked by maximal concentrations of Ins(2,4,5)P3 was only 65+/-3% (n = 3) of that evoked by Ins(1,4,5)P3. Furthermore, Ins(2,4,5)P3 inhibited the peak rate of 45Ca2+ efflux evoked by Ins(1,4,5)P3. These results indicate that Ins(2,4,5)P3 is a partial agonist at hepatic Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptors. Additionally, responses to Ins(2,4,5)P3 were less positively cooperative [Hill coefficient (h) = 1.9+/-0.3] than were those to Ins(1,4,5)P3 (h = 3.0+/-0.2) and the kinetics of termination of 45Ca2+ mobilization were slower. The lesser efficacy of Ins(2,4,5)P3 may account for the lower cooperativity in the responses it evokes, the slower inactivation of InsP3 receptors and the characteristic patterns of Ca2+ spiking it evokes in intact cells.

Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 is effective in mobilizing Ca2+ in mouse exocrine pancreatic acinar cells if phospholipase A2 is inhibited

In enzymically isolated mouse pancreatic acinar cells, under conditions of whole-cell patch-clamp current recording, the effect of phospholipase C-coupled agonists can be mimicked by internal perfusion of the intracellular second messenger Ins(1,4,5)P3 (10 microM) or its analogue Ins(2,4,5)P3 (10 microM). The inositol trisphosphates mimic receptor activation by releasing Ca2+ from intracellular stores and by promoting Ca2+ influx across the surface membrane. This Ca(2+)-mobilizing role of inositol polyphosphates seems to be confined to the inositol trisphosphates because internal perfusion of Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 (10 microM) is not associated with any Ca(2+)-dependent current activation. In this study we investigate the effects of 4-bromophenacyl bromide (4BPB), a putative inhibitor of phospholipase A2 and arachadonic acid production, on inositol polyphosphate-induced Ca2+ signalling. At 10 microM, 4BPB has no effect on unstimulated Ca(2+)-dependent membrane currents. However, if 4BPB is applied to cells internally perfused with 10 microM Ins(1,4,5)P3 or Ins(2,4,5)P3 then the current responses are rapidly potentiated. In cells internally perfused with 10 microM Ins(1,3,4,5)P4, which has itself no effect on membrane currents, application of 4BPB resulted in the activation of Ca(2+)-dependent currents, seen either as repetitive spikes of current or as sustained current activations. The application of arachidonic acid blocks the current responses evoked by the inositol trisphosphates and by Ins(1,3,4,5)P4/4BPB. These results suggest that in enzymically isolated pancreatic acinar cells phospholipase A2 activity is exerting an inhibitory effect on inositol polyphosphate-mediated Ca2+ mobilization. 4BPB removes this inhibition and potentiates the responses to internally perfused inositol trisphosphates and, importantly, makes 10 microM Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 as effective as 10 microM Ins(1,4,5)P3 in mobilizing intracellular Ca2+ and in promoting Ca2+ influx.