Integrins, cations and ligands: making the connection

Fibulin-4 and latent-transforming growth factor beta-binding protein-4 interactions with syndecan-2 and syndecan-3 are required for elastogenesis

Elastogenesis is a cell surface-located hierarchical process that requires the core components tropoelastin and fibrillins and several accessory proteins, including fibulin-4 (FBLN4) and latent TGF-β binding protein-4 (LTBP4). FBLN4 and LTBP4 interact with cells, but their cell receptors and associated molecular elastogenic mechanisms remain unknown. Primary skin fibroblasts and several vascular smooth muscle cells bound strongly to FBLN4 multimers and LTBP4 monomers. We identified two cell interaction epitopes on FBLN4 located in cbEGF2-3 and the C-terminal domain, whereas FBLN4 multimerization sites were mapped to cbEGF4-5 and the C-terminal domain. We also determined a novel cell interaction site in the N-terminal half of LTBP4. Cell binding to FBLN4 and LTBP4 was strongly inhibited in the presence of heparin, heparan sulfate, or after enzymatic removal of heparan sulfate, suggesting heparan sulfate proteoglycans as relevant cell surface receptors. siRNA knockdown experiments identified syndecan (SDC)2 and SDC3 as cell receptors for FBNL4 and SDC3 for LTBP4. Direct protein interactions between FBLN4 and the recombinant ectodomains of SDC2 and SDC3, and between LTBP4 and SDC3 validated these results. Interaction of the elastogenic cells with FBLN4 and LTBP4 enhanced elastogenesis, whereas SDC2 and/or SDC3 knockdowns led to reduced elastic fiber formation. The cell interactions with FBLN4 and LTBP4 significantly enhanced focal adhesion formation, induced cell contraction, and led to activation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), Erk1/2, and RhoA. Pharmacological inhibition of these effectors markedly attenuated elastic fiber formation, and siRNA knockdown of SDC2 and SDC3 led to reduced levels of pFAK, pERK, and active RhoA. Together, these data demonstrate that FBLN4 and LTBP4 cell interactions through SDC2 and SDC3 promote elastogenesis by enhancing focal adhesion formation, leading to cell contractility through FAK, Erk1/2, and RhoA activation, underscoring the significance of these pathways in elastogenesis.

Integrins in Cardiovascular Health and Disease: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities

Cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, and heart failure, remain the leading cause of global mortality, with endothelial dysfunction and vascular remodeling as critical contributors. Integrins, as transmembrane adhesion proteins, are central regulators of cell adhesion, migration, and signaling, playing a pivotal role in maintaining vascular homeostasis and mediating pathological processes such as inflammation, angiogenesis, and extracellular matrix remodeling. This article comprehensively examines the role of integrins in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, focusing on their dysfunction in endothelial cells and interactions with inflammatory mediators, such as TNF-α. Molecular mechanisms of integrin action are discussed, including their involvement in mechanotransduction, leukocyte adhesion, and signaling pathways that regulate vascular integrity. The review also highlights experimental findings, such as the use of specific integrin-targeting plasmids and immunofluorescence to elucidate integrin functions under inflammatory conditions. Additionally, potential therapeutic strategies are explored, including the development of integrin inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and their application in regenerative medicine. These approaches aim not only to mitigate pathological vascular remodeling but also to promote tissue repair and angiogenesis. By bridging insights from molecular studies with their translational potential, this work underscores the promise of integrin-based therapies in advancing the management and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

Endoplasmic Reticulum Protein 72 Regulates Integrin Mac-1 Activity to Influence Neutrophil Recruitment

BACKGROUND

Integrins mediate the adhesion, crawling, and migration of neutrophils during vascular inflammation. Thiol exchange is important in the regulation of integrin functions. ERp72 (endoplasmic reticulum-resident protein 72) is a member of the thiol isomerase family responsible for the catalysis of disulfide rearrangement. However, the role of ERp72 in the regulation of Mac-1 (integrin αMβ2) on neutrophils remains elusive.

METHODS

Intravital microscopy of the cremaster microcirculation was performed to determine in vivo neutrophil movement. Static adhesion, flow chamber, and flow cytometry were used to evaluate in vitro integrin functions. Confocal fluorescent microscopy and coimmunoprecipitation were utilized to characterize the interactions between ERp72 and Mac-1 on neutrophil surface. Cell-impermeable probes and mass spectrometry were used to label reactive thiols and identify target disulfide bonds during redox exchange. Biomembrane force probe was performed to quantitatively measure the binding affinity of Mac-1. A murine model of acute lung injury induced by lipopolysaccharide was utilized to evaluate neutrophil-associated vasculopathy.

RESULTS

ERp72-deficient neutrophils exhibited increased rolling but decreased adhesion/crawling on inflamed venules in vivo and defective static adhesion in vitro. The defect was due to defective activation of integrin Mac-1 but not LFA-1 (lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1) using blocking or epitope-specific antibodies. ERp72 interacted with Mac-1 in lipid rafts on neutrophil surface leading to the reduction of the C654-C711 disulfide bond in the αM subunit that is critical for Mac-1 activation. Recombinant ERp72, via its catalytic motifs, increased the binding affinity of Mac-1 with ICAM-1 (intercellular adhesion molecule-1) and rescued the defective adhesion of ERp72-deficient neutrophils both in vitro and in vivo. Deletion of ERp72 in the bone marrow inhibited neutrophil infiltration, ameliorated tissue damage, and increased survival during murine acute lung injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Extracellular ERp72 regulates integrin Mac-1 activity by catalyzing disulfide rearrangement on the αM subunit and may be a novel target for the treatment of neutrophil-associated vasculopathy.

The Force-Dependent Mechanism of an Integrin α4β7-MAdCAM-1 Interaction

The interaction between integrin α4β7 and mucosal vascular addressin cell-adhesion molecule-1 (MAdCAM-1) facilitates the adhesion of circulating lymphocytes to the surface of high endothelial venules in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Lymphocyte adhesion is a multistep cascade involving the tethering, rolling, stable adhesion, crawling, and migration of cells, with integrin α4β7 being involved in rolling and stable adhesions. Targeting the integrin α4β7-MAdCAM-1 interaction may help decrease inflammation in IBDs. This interaction is regulated by force; however, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Here, we investigate this mechanism using a parallel plate flow chamber and atomic force microscopy. The results reveal an initial increase in the lifetime of the integrin α4β7-MAdCAM-1 interaction followed by a decrease with an increasing force. This was manifested in a two-state curve regulated via a catch-bond-slip-bond conversion regardless of Ca2+ and/or Mg2+ availability. In contrast, the mean rolling velocity of cells initially decreased and then increased with the increasing force, indicating the flow-enhanced adhesion. Longer tether lifetimes of single bonds and lower rolling velocities mediated by multiple bonds were observed in the presence of Mg2+ rather than Ca2+. Similar results were obtained when examining the adhesion to substrates co-coated with chemokine CC motif ligand 25 and MAdCAM-1, as opposed to substrates coated with MAdCAM-1 alone. In conclusion, the integrin α4β7-MAdCAM-1 interaction occurs via ion- and cytokine-dependent flow-enhanced adhesion processes and is regulated via a catch-bond mechanism.

Early diabetic kidney disease: Focus on the glycocalyx

The incidence of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is sharply increasing worldwide. Microalbuminuria is the primary clinical marker used to identify DKD, and its initiating step in diabetes is glomerular endothelial cell dysfunction, particularly glycocalyx impairment. The glycocalyx found on the surface of glomerular endothelial cells, is a dynamic hydrated layer structure composed of pro-teoglycans, glycoproteins, and some adsorbed soluble components. It reinforces the negative charge barrier, transduces the shear stress, and mediates the interaction of blood corpuscles and podocytes with endothelial cells. In the high-glucose environment of diabetes, excessive reactive oxygen species and proinflammatory cytokines can damage the endothelial glycocalyx (EG) both directly and indirectly, which induces the production of microalbuminuria. Further research is required to elucidate the role of the podocyte glycocalyx, which may, together with endothelial cells, form a line of defense against albumin filtration. Interestingly, recent research has confirmed that the negative charge barrier function of the glycocalyx found in the glomerular basement membrane and its repulsion effect on albumin is limited. Therefore, to improve the early diagnosis and treatment of DKD, the potential mechanisms of EG degradation must be analyzed and more responsive and controllable targets must be explored. The content of this review will provide insights for future research.

The challenges and opportunities of αvβ3-based therapeutics in cancer: From bench to clinical trials

Integrins are main cell adhesion receptors serving as linker attaching cells to extracellular matrix (ECM) and bidirectional hubs transmitting biochemical and mechanical signals between cells and their environment. Integrin αvβ3 is a critical family member of integrins and interacts with ECM proteins containing RGD tripeptide sequence. Accumulating evidence indicated that the abnormal expression of integrin αvβ3 was associated with various tumor progressions, including tumor initiation, sustained tumor growth, distant metastasis, drug resistance development, maintenance of stemness in cancer cells. Therefore, αvβ3 has been explored as a therapeutic target in various types of cancers, but there is no αvβ3 antagonist approved for human therapy. Targeting-integrin αvβ3 therapeutics has been a challenge, but lessons from the past are valuable to the development of innovative targeting approaches. This review systematically summarized the structure, signal transduction, regulatory role in cancer, and drug development history of integrin αvβ3, and also provided new insights into αvβ3-based therapeutics in cancer from bench to clinical trials, which would contribute to developing effective targeting αvβ3 agents for cancer treatment.

Solubilization and Purification of α5β1 Integrin from Rat Liver for Reconstitution into Nanodiscs

Transmembrane proteins (or integral membrane proteins) are synthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum where most of them are core glycosylated prior to folding and in some cases assembly into quaternary structures. Correctly glycosylated, folded, and assembled transmembrane proteins are then shuttled to the Golgi apparatus for additional posttranslational modifications such as complex-type glycosylations, sulfation or proteolytic clipping. At the plasma membrane, the glycosylated extracellular domains are key to communicate with the cellular environment for a variety of functions, such as binding to the extracellular matrix for cell adhesion and migration, to neighboring cells for cell-cell interaction, or to extracellular components for nutrient uptake and cell signaling. Intracellular domains are essential to mediate signaling cascades, or to connect to cytosolic adaptors for internalization and intracellular compartmentalization. Despite its importance for the understanding of molecular mechanisms of transmembrane protein function, the determination of their structures has remained a challenging task. In recent years, their reconstitution in lipid nanodiscs in combination with high resolution cryo-electron microscopy has provided novel avenues to render this process more accessible. Here, we describe detailed protocols for the solubilization of heavily glycosylated α₅β₁ integrin from rat livers, its purification and reconstitution into nanodiscs. At the plasma membrane of many cells, including tumor metastases, this essential heterodimeric transmembrane protein mediates the communication between extracellular matrix and cytosolic cytoskeleton in processes of cell adhesion and migration. We expect that the protocols that are described here will provide new opportunities for the determination of the full structure of α₅β₁ integrin, as well as for the understanding of how interacting partners can regulate function and activity of this transmembrane protein.

The Endothelial Glycocalyx as a Key Mediator of Albumin Handling and the Development of Diabetic Nephropathy

The endothelial glycocalyx is a complex mesh of proteoglycans, glycoproteins and other soluble components, which cover the vascular endothelium. It plays an important role in many physiological processes including vascular permeability, transduction of shear stress and interaction of blood cells and other molecules with the vascular wall. Its complex structure makes its precise assessment challenging, and many different visualization techniques have been used with varying results. Diabetes, one of the main disease models where disorders of the glycocalyx are present, causes degradation of the glycocalyx through a variety of molecular pathways and especially through oxidative stress due to the action of reactive oxygen species. As the glycocalyx has been primarily studied in the glomerular endothelium, more evidence points towards a vital role in albumin handling and, consequently, in diabetic nephropathy. Therefore, the maintenance or restoration of the integrity of the glycocalyx seems a promising therapeutic target. In this review, we consider the structural and functional capacities of the endothelial glycocalyx, the available methods for its evaluation, the mechanisms through which diabetes leads to glycocalyx degradation and albuminuria, and possible treatment options targeting the glycocalyx.

Isolation and Functional Identification of an Antiplatelet RGD-Containing Disintegrin from Cerastes cerastes Venom

The current report focuses on purification, structural and functional characterization of Cerastategrin from Cerastes cerastes venom, a novel basic disintegrin (pI 8.36) with 128 amino acid residues and a molecular weight of 13 835.25 Da measured by MALDI-MSMS. The 3D structure of Cerastategrin is organized as α-helix (13%), β-strand (15%) and disordered structure (30%) and presents homologies with several snake venom disintegrins. Structural modeling shows that Cerastategrin presents an RGD motif that connects specifically to integrin receptors. Cerastategrin exhibits the inhibition of ADP induced platelets with an IC₅₀ of 0.88 µg/mL and shows in vivo long stable anticoagulation effect 24 h post-injection of increasing doses ranging from 0.2 to 1 mg/kg, therefore, Cerastategrin maintained irreversibly the blood incoagulable. Moreover, Cerastategrin decreases the amount of bounded αIIbβ3 and reduced significantly the quantity of externalized P-Selectin. Cerastategrin acts as a molecule targeting specifically the receptor α_IIbβ₃; therefore, it behaves as a potent platelet activation inhibitor. As a new peptide with promising pharmacological properties, Cerastategrin could have a potential therapeutical effect in the vascular pathologies and may be a new effective treatment approach.

Calcium in Cell-Extracellular Matrix Interactions

In multicellular organisms, the cells are surrounded by persistent, dynamic extracellular matrix (ECM), the largest calcium reservoir in animals. ECM regulates several aspects of cell behavior including cell migration and adhesion, survival, gene expression and differentiation, thus playing a significant role in health and disease. Calcium is reported to be important in the assembly of ECM, where it binds to many ECM proteins. While serving as a calcium reservoir, ECM macromolecules can directly interact with cell surface receptors resulting in calcium transport across the membrane. This chapter mainly focusses on the role of cell-ECM interactions in cellular calcium regulation and how calcium itself mediates these interactions.

In vitro response of mesenchymal stem cells to biomimetic hydroxyapatite substrates: A new strategy to assess the effect of ion exchange

Biomaterials can interact with cells directly, that is, by direct contact of the cells with the material surface, or indirectly, through soluble species that can be released to or uptaken from the surrounding fluids. However, it is difficult to characterise the relevance of this fluid-mediated interaction separately from the topography and composition of the substrate, because they are coupled variables. These fluid-mediated interactions are amplified in the case of highly reactive calcium phosphates (CaPs) such as biomimetic calcium deficient hydroxyapatite (CDHA), particularly in static in vitro cultures. The present work proposes a strategy to decouple the effect of ion exchange from topographical features by adjusting the volume ratio between the cell culture medium and biomaterial (V_CM/V_B). Increasing this ratio allowed mitigating the drastic ionic exchanges associated to the compositional changes experienced by the material exposed to the cell culture medium. This strategy was validated using rat mesenchymal stem cells (rMSCs) cultured on CDHA and beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) discs using different V_CM/V_B ratios. Whereas in the case of β-TCP the cell response was not affected by this ratio, a significant effect on cell adhesion and proliferation was found for the more reactive CDHA. The ionic exchange, produced by CDHA at low V_CM/V_B, altered cell adhesion due to the reduced number of focal adhesions, caused cell shrinkage and further rMCSs apoptosis. This was mitigated when using a high V_CM/V_B, which attenuated the changes of calcium and phosphate concentrations in the cell culture medium, resulting in rMSCs spreading and a viability over time. Moreover, rMSCs showed an earlier expression of osteogenic genes on CDHA compared to sintered β-TCP when extracellular calcium fluctuations were reduced.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

Fluid mediated interactions play a significant role in the bioactivity of calcium phosphates. Ionic exchange is amplified in the case of biomimetic hydroxyapatite, which makes the in vitro characterisation of cell-material interactions especially challenging. The present work proposes a novel and simple strategy to explore the mechanisms of interaction of biomimetic and sintered calcium phosphates with mesenchymal stem cells. The effects of topography and ion exchange are analysed separately by modifying the volume ratio between cell culture medium and biomaterial. High ionic fluctuations interfered in the maturation of focal adhesions, hampering cell adhesion and leading to increased apoptosis and reduced proliferation rate.

In vitro evaluation of MgSr and MgCaSr alloys via direct culture with bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells

Magnesium (Mg) and its alloys have been widely investigated as the most promising biodegradable metals to replace conventional non-degradable metals for temporary medical implant applications. New Mg alloys have been developed for medical applications in recent years; and the concept of alloying Mg with less-toxic elements have aroused tremendous interests due to the promise to address the problems associated with rapid degradation of Mg without compromising its cytocompatibility and biocompatibility. Of particular interests for orthopedic/spinal implant applications are the additions of calcium (Ca) and strontium (Sr) into Mg matrix because of their beneficial properties for bone regeneration. In this study, degradation and cytocompatibility of four binary MgSr alloys (Mg-xSr, x = 0.2, 0.5, 1 and 2 wt%) and four ternary MgCaSr alloys (Mg-1Ca-xSr, x = 0.2, 0.5, 1 and 2 wt%) were investigated and compared via direct culture with bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). The influence of the alloy composition on the degradation rates were studied and compared. Moreover, the cellular responses to the binary MgSr alloys and the ternary MgCaSr alloys were comparatively evaluated; and the critical factors influencing BMSC behaviors were discussed. This study screened the degradability and in vitro cytocompatibility of the binary MgSr alloys and the ternary MgCaSr alloys. Mg-1Sr, Mg-1Ca-0.5Sr and Mg-1Ca-1Sr alloys are recommended for further in vivo studies toward clinical translation due to their best overall performances in terms of degradation and cytocompatibility among all the alloys studied in the present work.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

Traditional Mg alloys with slower degradation often contain aluminum or rare earth elements as alloying components, which raised safety and regulatory concerns. To circumvent unsafe elements, nutrient elements such as calcium (Ca) and strontium (Sr) were selected to create Mg-Sr binary alloys and Mg-Ca-Sr ternary alloys to improve the safety and biocompatibility of bioresorbable Mg alloys for medical implant applications. In this study, in vitro degradation and cellular responses to four binary Mg-xSr alloys and four ternary Mg-1Ca-xSr alloys with increasing Sr content (up to 2 wt%) were evaluated in direct culture with bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). The roles of Sr and Ca in tuning the alloy microstructure, degradation behaviors, and BMSC responses were collectively compared in the BMSC direct culture system for the first time. The most promising alloys were identified and recommended for further in vivo studies toward clinical translation.

Maximum likelihood approach suggests positive selection in platelet integrin αIIbβ3 in mammalian species

Platelet integrin αIIbβ3 is crucial for platelet aggregation. Although structural and functional characteristics of this protein have been extensively studied, the evolutionary pattern studies of this protein complex in mammals are scarce. Here, we addressed this question using maximum likelihood approaches to identify codons that are evolving under positive selection. Likelihood of positive selection was estimated using CODEML implemented in PAML software applied to integrin αIIbβ3 derived from nucleotide sequences of 10 different mammalian species. Four codons in mature αIIb-subunit (corresponding to residues 150, 184, 193, and 370) and three codons in mature β3-subunit (corresponding to residues 129, 440, and 444) showed signs of positive selection with posterior probabilities over 95%. The different amino acids observed for each of the positively selected residues detected showed different physicochemical properties. These results open new research avenues to understand the physiological importance of specific residues and should allow for a better understanding of the function and the different interactions of each residue within the mature protein.

Effect of amino acids near the RGD sequence on binding activities between αIIbβ3 integrin and fibrinogen in the presence of RGD-containing synthetic peptides from elegantin and angustatin

Elegantin and angustatin, which were isolated from the snake venoms of Protobothrops elegans and Dendroaspis angusticeps, markedly inhibit binding between platelet integrins and fibrinogen via the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) sequence. Angustatin, which is a three-finger toxin containing the RGD sequence, inhibits platelet aggregation almost ten times more strongly than disintegrin isolated from the venoms of Viperidae and Crotalidae. The RGD sequences of both polypeptides are located at the top of hairpin loops, and the composition of the RGD loop is very important for binding to integrin. We investigated the effects of synthetic RGD loop peptides from angustatin and elegantin on ADP- or collagen-induced platelet aggregation and αIIbβ3-fibrinogen binding. Synthetic angustatin (PRGDMP)-type peptides inhibited platelet aggregation more strongly than elegantin (ARGDDX)-type peptides. In particular, the cyclic angustatin peptide (CPRGDMPC) inhibited ADP- and collagen-induced platelet aggregation at least 10-50 times more strongly than the other peptides. The cyclic angustatin peptide (CPRGDMPC) was also the strongest inhibitor of binding between αIIbβ3 and fibrinogen, the IC₅₀ of this peptide was approximately 2.58μM. Regarding the inhibition of binding between αIIbβ3 and fibrinogen, CPRGDMPC demonstrated a stronger inhibitory and more stable effect in the presence of Mg²⁺ than in the presence of Ca²⁺.

Interaction of Extracellular Vesicles with Endothelial Cells Under Physiological Flow Conditions

In the last few years it has become clear that, in addition to soluble molecules such as growth factors and cytokines, cells use extracellular vesicles (EVs) for intercellular communication. For example, EVs derived from cancer cells interact with endothelial cells, thereby affecting angiogenesis and metastasis, two essential processes in tumor progression. In most experiments, the interaction of EVs with target cells is investigated under static conditions. However the use of dynamic flow conditions is considered more relevant, especially when studying EV uptake by endothelial cells. Here, we describe the use of a perfusion system to investigate the interaction of (tumor) EVs with endothelial cells under dynamic flow conditions.

A Lupus-Associated Mac-1 Variant Has Defects in Integrin Allostery and Interaction with Ligands under Force

Leukocyte CD18 integrins increase their affinity for ligand by transmitting allosteric signals to and from their ligand-binding αI domain. Mechanical forces induce allosteric changes that paradoxically slow dissociation by increasing the integrin/ligand bond lifetimes, referred to as catch bonds. Mac-1 formed catch bonds with its ligands. However, a Mac-1 gene (ITGAM) coding variant (rs1143679, R77H), which is located in the β-propeller domain and is significantly associated with systemic lupus erythematosus risk, exhibits a marked impairment in 2D ligand affinity and affinity maturation under mechanical force. Targeted mutations and activating antibodies reveal that the failure in Mac-1 R77H allostery is rescued by induction of cytoplasmic tail separation and full integrin extension. These findings demonstrate roles for R77, and the β-propeller in which it resides, in force-induced allostery relay and integrin bond stabilization. Defects in these processes may have pathological consequences, as the Mac-1 R77H variant is associated with increased susceptibility to lupus.

The integrin αL leg region controls the Mg/EGTA mediated activation of LFA-1

We have shown that Mg/EGTA (5 mM Mg(2+) and 1.5 mM EGTA) could effectively promote the adhesion of integrin αLβ2 to its ligand ICAM-1 but could not promote that of the αMβ2 to denatured BSA. In order to determine the structural differences between αL and αM that specifically contribute to Mg/EGTA sensitivity, a series of αL/αM chimeras were constructed. Our results showed that αLβ2 with αM calf-1 domain completely lost the response to Mg/EGTA activation. In the reverse experiment, αMβ2 would require the presence of both the αL calf-1 and calf-2 domain to initiate the Mg/EGTA sensitivity.

Acoustic detection of cell adhesion to a coated quartz crystal microbalance - implications for studying the biocompatibility of polymers

Biocompatibility of polymers is an important parameter for the successful application of polymers in tissue engineering. In this work, quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) devices were used to follow the adhesion of NIH 3T3 fibroblasts to QCM surfaces modified with fibronectin (FN) and poly-D-lysine (PDL). The variations in sensor resonant frequency (Δf) and motional resistance (ΔR), monitored as the sensor signal, revealed that cell adhesion was favored in the PDL-coated QCMs. Fluorescence microscopy images of seeded cells showed more highly spread cells on the PDL substrate, which is consistent with the results of the QCM signals. The sensor signal was shown to be sensitive to extracellular matrix (ECM)-binding motifs. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and soluble Gly-Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser (GRGDS) peptides were used to interfere with cell-ECM binding motifs onto FN-coated QCMs. The acquired acoustic signals successfully showed that in the presence of 30 mM EDTA or 1 mM GRGDS, cell adhesion is almost completely abolished due to the inhibition/blocking of integrin function by these compounds. The results presented here demonstrate the potential of the QCM sensor to study cell adhesion, to monitor the biocompatibility of polymers and materials, and to assess the effect of adhesion modulators. QCM sensors have great potential in tissue engineering applications, as QCM sensors are able to analyze the biocompatibility of surfaces and it has the added advantage of being able to evaluate, in situ and in real time, the effect of specific drugs/treatments on cells.

Engineering agatoxin, a cystine-knot peptide from spider venom, as a molecular probe for in vivo tumor imaging

BACKGROUND

Cystine-knot miniproteins, also known as knottins, have shown great potential as molecular scaffolds for the development of targeted therapeutics and diagnostic agents. For this purpose, previous protein engineering efforts have focused on knottins based on the Ecballium elaterium trypsin inhibitor (EETI) from squash seeds, the Agouti-related protein (AgRP) neuropeptide from mammals, or the Kalata B1 uterotonic peptide from plants. Here, we demonstrate that Agatoxin (AgTx), an ion channel inhibitor found in spider venom, can be used as a molecular scaffold to engineer knottins that bind with high-affinity to a tumor-associated integrin receptor.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

We used a rational loop-grafting approach to engineer AgTx variants that bound to αvβ3 integrin with affinities in the low nM range. We showed that a disulfide-constrained loop from AgRP, a structurally-related knottin, can be substituted into AgTx to confer its high affinity binding properties. In parallel, we identified amino acid mutations required for efficient in vitro folding of engineered integrin-binding AgTx variants. Molecular imaging was used to evaluate in vivo tumor targeting and biodistribution of an engineered AgTx knottin compared to integrin-binding knottins based on AgRP and EETI. Knottin peptides were chemically synthesized and conjugated to a near-infrared fluorescent dye. Integrin-binding AgTx, AgRP, and EETI knottins all generated high tumor imaging contrast in U87MG glioblastoma xenograft models. Interestingly, EETI-based knottins generated significantly lower non-specific kidney imaging signals compared to AgTx and AgRP-based knottins.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

In this study, we demonstrate that AgTx, a knottin from spider venom, can be engineered to bind with high affinity to a tumor-associated receptor target. This work validates AgTx as a viable molecular scaffold for protein engineering, and further demonstrates the promise of using tumor-targeting knottins as probes for in vivo molecular imaging.

The regulation of integrin function by divalent cations

Integrins are a family of α/β heterodimeric adhesion metalloprotein receptors and their functions are highly dependent on and regulated by different divalent cations. Recently advanced studies have revolutionized our perception of integrin metal ion-binding sites and their specific functions. Ligand binding to integrins is bridged by a divalent cation bound at the MIDAS motif on top of either α I domain in I domain-containing integrins or β I domain in α I domain-less integrins. The MIDAS motif in β I domain is flanked by ADMIDAS and SyMBS, the other two crucial metal ion binding sites playing pivotal roles in the regulation of integrin affinity and bidirectional signaling across the plasma membrane. The β-propeller domain of α subunit contains three or four β-hairpin loop-like Ca(2+)-binding motifs that have essential roles in integrin biogenesis. The function of another Ca(2+)-binding motif located at the genu of α subunit remains elusive. Here, we provide an overview of the integrin metal ion-binding sites and discuss their roles in the regulation of integrin functions.

Antagonistic VEGF variants engineered to simultaneously bind to and inhibit VEGFR2 and alphavbeta3 integrin

Significant cross-talk exists between receptors that mediate angiogenesis, such as VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR2) and α(v)β(3) integrin. Thus, agents that inhibit both receptors would have important therapeutic potential. Here, we used an antagonistic VEGF ligand as a molecular scaffold to engineer dual-specific proteins that bound to VEGFR2 and α(v)β(3) integrin with antibody-like affinities and inhibited angiogenic processes in vitro and in vivo. Mutations were introduced into a single-chain VEGF (scVEGF) ligand that retained VEGFR2 binding, but prevented receptor dimerization and activation. Yeast-displayed scVEGF mutant libraries were created and screened by high-throughput flow cytometric sorting to identify several variants that bound with high affinity to both VEGFR2 and α(v)β(3) integrin. These engineered scVEGF mutants were specific for α(v)β(3) integrin and did not bind to the related integrins α(v)β(5), α(iib)β(3), or α(5)β(1). In addition, surface plasmon resonance and cell binding assays showed that dual-specific scVEGF proteins can simultaneously engage both receptors. Compared to monospecific scVEGF mutants that bind VEGFR2 or α(v)β(3) integrin, dual-specific scVEGF proteins more strongly inhibited VEGF-mediated receptor phosphorylation, capillary tube formation, and proliferation of endothelial cells cultured on Matrigel or vitronectin-coated surfaces. Moreover, dual specificity conferred strong inhibition of VEGF-mediated blood vessel formation in Matrigel plugs in vivo, whereas monospecific scVEGF mutants that bind VEGFR2 or α(v)β(3) integrin were only marginally effective. Instead of relying on antibody associating domains or physical linkage, this work highlights an approach to creating dual-specific proteins where additional functionality is introduced into a protein ligand to complement its existing biological properties.

N-terminus 4-Chloromethyl Thiazole Peptide as a Macrocyclization Tool in the Synthesis of Cyclic Peptides: Application to the Synthesis of Conformationally Constrained RGD-Containing Integrin Ligands

The synthesis of conformationally constrained RGD-containing integrin ligands via an efficient solid-phase intramolecular thioalkylation reaction is described. The reaction of S-nucleophiles with newly generated N-terminal 4-chloromethyl thiazoles leads to the desired cyclic RGD products 5 in high purities and good overall yields.

Targeting activated integrin alphavbeta3 with patient-derived antibodies impacts late-stage multiorgan metastasis

Advanced metastatic disease is difficult to manage and specific therapeutic targets are rare. We showed earlier that metastatic breast cancer cells use the activated conformer of adhesion receptor integrin alphavbeta3 for dissemination. We now investigated if targeting this form of the receptor can impact advanced metastatic disease, and we analyzed the mechanisms involved. Treatment of advanced multi-organ metastasis in SCID mice with patient-derived scFv antibodies specific for activated integrin alphavbeta3 caused stagnation and regression of metastatic growth. The antibodies specifically localized to tumor lesions in vivo and inhibited alphavbeta3 ligand binding at nanomolar levels in vitro. At the cellular level, the scFs associated rapidly with high affinity alphavbeta3 and dissociated extremely slowly. Thus, the scFvs occupy the receptor on metastatic tumor cells for prolonged periods of time, allowing for inhibition of established cell interaction with natural alphavbeta3 ligands. Potential apoptosis inducing effects of the antibodies through interaction with caspase-3 were studied as potential additional mechanism of treatment response. However, in contrast to a previous concept, neither the RGD-containing ligand mimetic scFvs nor RGD peptides bound or activated caspase-3 at the cellular or molecular level. This indicates that the treatment effects seen in the animal model are primarily due to antibody interference with alphavbeta3 ligation. Inhibition of advanced metastatic disease by treatment with cancer patient derived single chain antibodies against the activated conformer of integrin alphavbeta3 identifies this form of the receptor as a suitable target for therapy.

Plasminogen activator inhibitors regulate cell adhesion through a uPAR-dependent mechanism

Binding of type-1 plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1) to cell surface urokinase (uPA) promotes inactivation and internalization of adhesion receptors (e.g., urokinase receptor (uPAR), integrins) and leads to cell detachment from a variety of extracellular matrices. In this report, we begin to examine the mechanism of this process. We show that neither specific antibodies to uPA, nor active site inhibitors of uPA, can detach the cells. Thus, cell detachment is not simply the result of the binding of macromolecules to uPA and/or of the inactivation of uPA. We further demonstrate that another uPA inhibitor, protease nexin-1 (PN-1), also stimulates cell detachment in a uPA/uPAR-dependent manner. The binding of both inhibitors to uPA leads to the specific inactivation of the matrix-engaged integrins and the subsequent detachment of these integrins from the underlying extracellular matrix (ECM). This inhibitor-mediated inactivation of integrins requires direct interaction between uPAR and those integrins since cells attached to the ECM through integrins incapable of binding uPAR do not respond to the presence of either PAI-1 of PN-1. Although both inhibitors initiate the clearance of uPAR, only PAI-1 triggers the internalization of integrins. However, cell detachment by PAI-1 or PN-1 does not depend on the endocytosis of these integrins since cell detachment was also observed when clearance of these integrins was blocked. Thus, PAI-1 and PN-1 induce cell detachment through two slightly different mechanisms that affect integrin metabolism. These differences may be important for distinct cellular processes that require controlled changes in the subcellular localization of these receptors.

Multiple ways to switch platelet integrins on and off

In the classical concept of platelet integrin activation, it is considered that unidirectional conformational changes of alpha(IIb)beta(3) and alpha(2)beta(1) regulate the adhesiveness of platelets for fibrin(ogen) and collagen, respectively. Here, we summarize recent evidence that these conformational changes: (i) can also occur in the reverse direction; and (ii) are not independent events. Platelet stimulation through the P2Y(12) receptors provokes only transient alpha(IIb)beta(3) activation via signaling routes involving phosphoinositide 3-kinases and Rap1b. Furthermore, alpha(IIb)beta(3) can be secondarily inactivated in platelets with prolonged high Ca(2+) rises, which expose phosphatidylserine and bind coagulation factors. Thus, platelet stimulation with strong agonists (collagen and thrombin) also results in transient integrin activation. Integrin alpha(2)beta(1) is found to be activated by a mechanism that is directly linked to alpha(IIb)beta(3) activation. Integrin alpha(2)beta(1) can adopt different activation states, depending on the trigger. Conclusively, reversibility and synchrony of platelet integrin activation are newly identified mechanisms to restrict thrombus growth and to allow optimal coagulation factor binding. Back-shifting of activated integrins towards their resting state may be a novel goal of antithrombotic medication.

Divalent cations modulate the integrin-mediated malignant phenotype in pancreatic cancer cells

We have previously demonstrated that pathophysiological shifts in the concentrations of extracellular Mg(2+) and Ca(2+) activate the alpha(2)beta(1) integrin-mediated malignant phenotype on type I collagen in pancreatic cancer cells, as evidenced by increased adhesion, migration and proliferation. In the present study, we examined the integrin and divalent cation specificity of pancreatic cancer cell interactions with other physiologically relevant extracellular matrix proteins, including fibronectin, type IV collagen, laminin and vitronectin. Our results indicate that, like alpha(2)beta(1) integrin-mediated interactions with type I collagen, beta(1) integrin-mediated adhesion to fibronectin, type IV collagen and laminin are promoted by Mg(2+) but not by Ca(2+). On vitronectin, cells attach via alpha(v)beta(5) and beta(1) integrins, and in the presence of either divalent cation. We also demonstrate that, like type I collagen, pancreatic cancer cell migration and proliferation on fibronectin, laminin and type IV collagen is maximal when Mg(2+) is present at concentrations that promote optimal adhesion and Ca(2+) is present at concentrations less than Mg(2+). On vitronectin, Panc-1 cell migration is maximal with decreased Mg(2+) and increased Ca(2+), but the reverse is true for BxPC-3 cells. Both cell lines exhibited maximal proliferation with increased Mg(2+) and decreased Ca(2+), however. Together with evidence indicating that the in vivo local tumor microenvironment contains increased Mg(2+) and decreased Ca(2+), our studies demonstrate that such divalent cation shifts could activate the integrin-mediated malignant phenotype in pancreatic cancer.

Modulation of ligand binding by alternative splicing of the alphaPS2 integrin subunit

The Drosophila alphaPS2 integrin subunit is found in two isoforms. alphaPS2C contains 25 residues not found in alphaPS2m8, encoded by the alternative eighth exon. Previously, it was shown that cells expressing alphaPS2C spread more effectively than alphaPS2m8 cells on fragments of the ECM protein Tiggrin, and that alphaPS2C-containing integrins are relatively insensitive to depletion of Ca(2+). Using a ligand mimetic probe for Tiggrin affinity (TWOW-1), we show that the affinity of alphaPS2CbetaPS for this ligand is much higher than that of alphaPS2m8betaPS. However, the two isoforms become more similar in the presence of activating levels of Mn(2+). Modeling indicates that the exon 8-encoded residues replace the third beta strand of the third blade of the alpha subunit beta-propeller structure, and generate an exaggerated loop between this and the fourth strand. alphaPS2 subunits with the extra loop structure but with an m8-like third strand, or subunits with a C-like strand but an m8-like short loop, both fail to show alphaPS2C-like affinity for TWOW-1. Surprisingly, a single C > m8-like change at the third strand-loop transition point is sufficient to make alphaPS2C require Ca(2+) for function, despite the absence of any known cation binding site in this region. These data indicate that alternative splicing in integrin alpha subunit extracellular domains may affect ligand affinity via relatively subtle alterations in integrin conformation. These results may have relevance for vertebrate alpha6 and alpha7, which are alternatively spliced at the same site.

Distinct Acidic Clusters and Hydrophobic Residues in the Alternative Splice Domains X1 and X2 of α7 Integrins Define Specificity for Laminin Isoforms

The binding specificity of alpha7beta1 integrins for different laminin isoforms is defined by the X1 and X2 splice domains located in the beta-propeller domain of the alpha7 subunit. In order to gain insight into the mechanism of specific laminin-integrin interactions, we defined laminin-binding epitopes of the alpha7X1 and -X2 domains by single amino acid substitutions and domain swapping between X1 and X2. The interaction of mutated, recombinantly prepared alpha7X1beta1 and alpha7X2beta1 heterodimers with various laminin isoforms was studied by surface plasmon resonance and solid phase binding assays. The data show that distinct clusters of surface-exposed acidic residues located in different positions of the X1 and the X2 loops are responsible for the specific recognition of laminins. These residues are conserved between the respective X1 or X2 splice domains of the alpha7 chains of different species, some also in the corresponding X1/X2 splice domains of alpha6 integrin. Interestingly, ligand binding was also modulated by mutating surface-exposed hydrophobic residues (alpha7X1L205, alpha7X2Y208) at positions corresponding to the fibronectin binding synergy site in alpha5beta1 integrin. Mutations in X1 that affected binding to laminin-1 also affected binding to laminin-8 and -10, but not to the same extent, thus allowing conclusions on the specific role of individual surface epitopes in the selective recognition of laminin-1 versus laminins -8 and -10. The role of the identified epitopes was confirmed by molecular dynamics simulations of wild-type integrins and several inactivating mutations. The analysis of laminin isoform interactions with various X1/X2 chimaera lend further support to the key role of negative surface charges and pointed to an essential contribution of the N-terminal TARVEL sequence of the X1 domain for recognition of laminin-8 and -10. In conclusion, specific surface epitopes containing charged and hydrophobic residues are essential for ligand binding and define specific interactions with laminin isoforms.

The endothelial glycocalyx: composition, functions, and visualization

This review aims at presenting state-of-the-art knowledge on the composition and functions of the endothelial glycocalyx. The endothelial glycocalyx is a network of membrane-bound proteoglycans and glycoproteins, covering the endothelium luminally. Both endothelium- and plasma-derived soluble molecules integrate into this mesh. Over the past decade, insight has been gained into the role of the glycocalyx in vascular physiology and pathology, including mechanotransduction, hemostasis, signaling, and blood cell–vessel wall interactions. The contribution of the glycocalyx to diabetes, ischemia/reperfusion, and atherosclerosis is also reviewed. Experimental data from the micro- and macrocirculation alludes at a vasculoprotective role for the glycocalyx. Assessing this possible role of the endothelial glycocalyx requires reliable visualization of this delicate layer, which is a great challenge. An overview is given of the various ways in which the endothelial glycocalyx has been visualized up to now, including first data from two-photon microscopic imaging.

Molecular modeling of the thyroid hormone interactions with alpha v beta 3 integrin

A cell surface receptor for thyroid hormone has recently been identified on the extracellular domain of integrin alphavbeta3. In a variety of human and animal cell lines this hormone receptor mediates activation by thyroid hormone of the cellular mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal transduction cascade. An arginine-glycine-aspartate (RGD) recognition site on the heterodimeric integrin is essential to the binding of a variety of extracellular matrix proteins. Recent competition data reveal that RGD peptides block hormone-binding by the integrin and consequent MAPK activation, suggesting that the hormone interaction site is located at or near the RGD recognition site on integrin alphavbeta3. A deaminated thyroid hormone (l-thyroxine, T4) analogue, tetraiodothyroacetic acid (tetrac, T4ac), inhibits binding of T4 and 3,5,3'-triiodo-l-thyronine (T3) to alphavbeta3, but does not activate MAPK. Structural data show that the RGD cyclic peptide binds at the interface of the propeller of the alphav and the B domains on the integrin head [Xiong JP, Stehle T, Zhang R, Joachimiack A, Frech M, Goodman SL, et al. Crystal structure of the extracellular segment of integrin alphavbeta3 in complexing with an Arg-Gly-Asp ligand. Science 2002;296:151-5]. To model potential interactions of thyroid hormone analogues with integrin, we mapped T4 and T4ac to the binding site of the RGD peptide. Modeling studies indicate that there is sufficient space in the cavity for the thyroid hormone to bind. Since the hormone is smaller in overall length than the RGD peptide, the hormone does not interact with the Arg recognition site in the propeller domain from alphav. In this model, most of the hormone interactions are with betaA domain of the integrin. Mutagenic studies can be carried out to validate the role of these residues in directing hormone interactions.

Expression and purification of functional human anthrax toxin receptor (ATR/TEM8) binding domain from Escherichia coli

Anthrax is caused by the gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium, Bacillus anthracis. Anthrax receptors play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of the anthrax disease. Anthrax toxin receptor ATR/TEM8 VWA domain is responsible for the binding of protective antigen (PA) of B. anthracis, and thus an attractive target for structure-based drug therapies. However, the production of soluble and functional ATR/TEM8 VWA domain currently requires the use of mammalian expression systems. In this work, we expressed the ATR/TEM8 VWA domain as a fusion protein in Escherichia coli. Recombinant ATR/TEM8 VWA domain has been purified to homogeneity, and its identity has been verified by both N-terminal protein microsequencing and mass spectrometry. The purified ATR/TEM8 VWA domain exhibits very high affinity to PA based on BIAcore assay. Moreover, like the domain expressed in mammalian system, the bacterially expressed ATR/TEM8 VWA domain can block cytotoxicity induced by anthrax toxins, suggesting that the bacterially expressed ATR/TEM8 VWA domain is properly folded and fully functional.

The Specificity and Function of the Metal-binding Sites in the Integrin β3 A-domain

The A-domains within integrin beta subunits contain three metal sites termed the metal ion-dependent adhesion site (MIDAS), site adjacent to the metal ion-dependent adhesion site (ADMIDAS), and ligand-induced metal-binding site (LIMBS), and these sites are involved in ligand engagement. The selectivity of these metal sites and their role in ligand binding have been investigated by expressing a fragment corresponding to the beta3 A-domain, beta3-(109-352), and single point mutants in which each of the cation-binding sites has been disabled. Equilibrium dialysis experiments identified three Mn2+- and two Ca2+-binding sites with the LIMBS being the site that did not bind Ca2+. Although the ADMIDAS could bind Ca2+, it did not bind Mg2+. These results indicate that the Ca2+-specific site that inhibits ligand binding is the ADMIDAS. Two different assay systems, surface plasmon resonance and a microtiter plate assay, demonstrated that the beta3 A-domain fragment bound fibrinogen in the presence of 0.1 mm Ca2+ but not in 3 mm Ca2+. This behavior recapitulated the effects of Ca2+ on fibrinogen binding to alphavbeta3 but not alphaIIbbeta3. Disabling any of the three cation-binding sites abrogated fibrinogen binding. These results indicate that the specificities of the three metal-binding sites for divalent cations are distinct and that each site can regulate the ligand binding potential of the beta3 A-domain.

Synthetic RGD-containing α-helical coiled coil peptides promote integrin-dependent cell adhesion

Integrin receptors are the main mediators of cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix. They bind to their ligands by interacting with short amino acid sequences, such as the RGD sequence. Soluble, small RGD-based peptides have been used to block integrin-binding to ligands, thereby interfering with cell adhesion, migration and survival, while substrate-immobilized RGD sequences have been used to enhance cell binding to artificial surfaces. This approach has several important medical applications, e.g. in suppression of tumor angiogenesis or stimulation of bone formation around implants. However, the relatively weak affinity of short RGD-containing peptides often results in incomplete integrin inhibition or ineffective ligation. In this work, we designed and synthesized several new multivalent RGD-containing molecules and tested their ability to inhibit or to promote integrin-dependent cell adhesion when used in solution or immobilized on substrates, respectively. These molecules consist of an oligomeric structure formed by alpha-helical coiled coil peptides fused at their amino-terminal ends with an RGD-containing fragment. When immobilized on a substrate, these peptides specifically promoted integrin alphaVbeta3-dependent cell adhesion, but when used in solution, they blocked alphaVbeta3-dependent cell adhesion to the natural substrates fibronectin and vitronectin. One of the peptides was nearly 10-fold more efficient than fibronectin or vitronectin in promoting cell adhesion, and almost 100-fold more efficient than a linear RGD tripeptide in blocking adhesion. These results indicate that alpha-helical coiled coil peptides carrying an amino-terminal RGD motif can be used as soluble antagonists or surface-immobilized agonists to efficiently inhibit or promote integrin alphaVbeta3-mediated cell adhesion, respectively.

Amino acid changes in Drosophila alphaPS2betaPS integrins that affect ligand affinity

We developed a ligand-mimetic antibody Fab fragment specific for Drosophila alphaPS2betaPS integrins to probe the ligand binding affinities of these invertebrate receptors. TWOW-1 was constructed by inserting a fragment of the extracellular matrix protein Tiggrin into the H-CDR3 of the alphavbeta3 ligand-mimetic antibody WOW-1. The specificity of alphaPS2betaPS binding to TWOW-1 was demonstrated by numerous tests used for other integrin-ligand interactions. Binding was decreased in the presence of EDTA or RGD peptides and by mutation of the TWOW-1 RGD sequence or the betaPS metal ion-dependent adhesion site (MIDAS) motif. TWOW-1 binding was increased by mutations in the alphaPS2 membrane-proximal cytoplasmic GFFNR sequence or by exposure to Mn2+. Although Mn2+ is sometimes assumed to promote maximal integrin activity, TWOW-1 binding in Mn2+ could be increased further by the alphaPS2 GFFNR --> GFANA mutation. A mutation in the betaPS I domain (betaPS-b58; V409D) greatly increased ligand binding affinity, explaining the increased cell spreading mediated by alphaPS2betaPS-b58. Further mutagenesis of this residue suggested that Val-409 normally stabilizes the closed head conformation. Mutations that potentially reduce interaction of the integrin beta subunit plexin-semaphorin-integrin (PSI) and stalk domains have been shown to have activating properties. We found that complete deletion of the betaPS PSI domain enhanced TWOW-1 binding. Moreover the PSI domain is dispensable for at least some other integrin functions because betaPS-DeltaPSI displayed an enhanced ability to mediate cell spreading. These studies establish a means to evaluate mechanisms and consequences of integrin affinity modulation in a tractable model genetic system.

Membrane-proximal α/β Stalk Interactions Differentially Regulate Integrin Activation

The affinity of integrin-ligand interaction is regulated extracellularly by divalent cations and intracellularly by inside-out signaling. We report here that the extracellular, membrane-proximal alpha/beta stalk interactions not only regulate cation-induced integrin activation but also play critical roles in propagating inside-out signaling. Two closely related integrins, alphaIIbbeta3 and alphaVbeta3, share high structural homology and bind to similar ligands in an RGD-dependent manner. Despite these structural and functional similarities, they exhibit distinct responses to Mn(2+). Although alphaVbeta3 showed robust ligand binding in the presence of Mn(2+), alphaIIbbeta3 showed a limited increase but failed to achieve full activation. Swapping alpha stalk regions between alphaIIb and alphaV revealed that the alpha stalk, but not the ligand-binding head region, was responsible for the difference. A series of alphaIIb/alphaV domain-swapping chimeras were constructed to identify the responsible domain. Surprisingly, the minimum component required to render alphaIIbbeta3 susceptible to Mn(2+) activation was the alphaV calf-2 domain, which does not contain any divalent cation-binding sites. The calf-2 domain makes interface with beta epidermal growth factor 4 and beta tail domain in three-dimensional structure. The effect of calf-2 domain swapping was partially reproduced by mutating the specific amino acid residues in the calf-2/epidermal growth factor 4-beta tail domain interface. When this interface was constrained by an artificially introduced disulfide bridge, the Mn(2+)-induced alphaVbeta3-fibrinogen interaction was significantly impaired. Notably, a similar disulfide bridge completely abrogated fibrinogen binding to alphaIIbbeta3 when alphaIIbbeta3 was activated by cytoplasmic tail truncation to mimic inside-out signaling. Thus, disruption/formation of the membrane-proximal alpha/beta stalk interface may act as an on/off switch that triggers integrin-mediated bidirectional signaling.

Characterization of αX I-domain binding to Thy-1

The beta2 integrins are found exclusively in leukocytes and they are composed of a common beta chain, CD18, and one of four unique alpha chains, CD11a (alphaL subunit), CD11b (alphaM subunit), CD11c (alphaX subunit), or CD11d (alphaD subunit). alphaX-beta2 which binds several ligands including fibrinogen and iC3b is expressed in monocytes/macrophages and dendritic cells playing an important role in the host defense. Despite the unique characteristics on expression and regulation, alphaX-beta2 is less functionally characterized than other beta2 integrins. To understand the biological function of alphaX-beta2 more, we tested the possibility that alphaX-beta2 binds Thy-1, a membrane protein involved in cell adhesion and signaling regulation in neurons and T cells. Here we report that a ligand binding moiety of alphaX-beta2, the I-domain, bound Thy-1 in a specific and divalent cation-dependent manner. The dissociation constant (K(D)) of alphaX I-domain binding to Thy-1 was 1.16muM and the affinity of the binding was roughly 2-fold higher than that of alphaM I-domain. Amino acid substitutions on the betaD-alpha5 of alphaX I-domain (D249, KE243/244) showed low affinities for Thy-1 while other point mutations on alpha3-alpha4 and betaE-alpha6 loops of I-domain did not, suggesting that Thy-1 recognizes the portion of a betaD-alpha5 loop, possibly alpha5 helix. Taken together, these results indicate that alphaX-beta2 specifically interacts with Thy-1. Additionally, kinetic analysis reveals a moderate affinity interaction in the presence of divalent cations. Given the reported role of Thy-1 in the regulation of T cell homeostasis and proliferation, it is tempting to speculate that alphaX-beta2 may be involved in Thy-1 function.

A Streptococcal Collagen-like Protein Interacts with the α2β1 Integrin and Induces Intracellular Signaling

The streptococcal collagen-like proteins Scl1 and Scl2 are prokaryotic members of a large protein family with domains containing the repeating amino acid sequence (Gly-Xaa-Yaa)(n) that form a collagen-like triple-helical structure. Here, we test the hypothesis that Scl variant might interact with mammalian collagen-binding integrins. We show that the recombinant Scl protein p176 promotes adhesion and spreading of human lung fibroblast cells through an alpha2beta1 integrin-mediated interaction as shown in cell adhesion inhibition assays using anti-alpha2beta1 and anti-beta1 integrins monoclonal antibodies. Accordingly, C2C12 cells stably expressing alpha2beta1 integrin as the only collagen-binding integrin show productive cell adhesion activities on p176 that can be blocked by an anti-alpha2beta1 integrin antibody. In addition, p176 promotes tyrosine phosphorylation of p125(FAK) of C2C12 cells expressing alpha2beta1 integrin, whereas parental cells do not. Furthermore, C2C12 adhesion of human lung fibroblast cells to p176 induces phosphorylation of p125FAK, p130CAS, and p68Paxillin proteins. In a domain swapping experiment, we show that integrin binds to the collagenous domain of the Scl protein. Moreover, the recombinant inserted domain of the alpha2 integrin interacts with p176 with a relatively high affinity (K(D) = 17 nm). Attempts to identify the integrin sites in p176 suggest that more than one site may be involved. These studies, for the first time, suggest that the collagen-like proteins of prokaryotes retained not only structural but also functional characteristics of their eukaryotic counterparts.

Breast adenocarcinoma cell adhesion to the vascular subendothelium in whole blood and under flow conditions: effects of alphavbeta3 and alphaIIbbeta3 antagonists

Tumour cell adhesion to vascular extracellular matrix (ECM), an important step of metastatic progression, is promoted by platelets. The aim of our study was to investigate, in whole blood under venous and arterial shear conditions, the respective role of tumour cell alphavbeta3 and platelet alphaIIbbeta3 integrins in MDA-MB-231 breast adenocarcinoma cell adhesion to human umbilical vein endothelial cell ECM. For that purpose, blood containing MDA-MB-231 cells was incubated with non-peptide antagonists specific for platelet alphaIIbbeta3 (lamifiban) or tumour cell alphavbeta3 (SB-273005). At 300 s(-1), each antagonist used alone did not modify tumour cell adhesion, whereas, at 1500 s(-1), tumour cell adhesion was decreased by 25% in presence of lamifiban indicating a role of platelet alphaIIbbeta3 at higher shear rate. However, a combination of SB-273005 and lamifiban, or c7E3 Fab (a potent inhibitor of both alphaIIbbeta3 and alphavbeta3) inhibited tumour cell adhesion by 40-45%, at either shear rate applied, indicating a cooperation between these two integrins in MDA-MB-231 cell adhesion to ECM, as well as the participation of other adhesive receptors on tumour cells and/or platelets. Thus, efficient anti-metastatic therapy should target multiple receptors on tumour cells and platelets.

Angiopoietin-1 promotes cardiac and skeletal myocyte survival through integrins

Cardiac myocyte loss, regardless of insult, can trigger compensatory myocardial remodeling leading to heart failure. Identifying mediators of cardiac myocyte survival may advance clinical efforts toward myocardial preservation. Angiopoietin-1 limits ischemia-induced cardiac injury. This benefit is ascribed to angiogenesis because the receptor, tie2, is largely endothelial-specific. We propose that direct, non-tie2 interactions of angiopoietin-1 on cardiac myocytes contribute to this cardioprotection. We found that mouse C2C12 skeletal myocytes lack tie2, yet dose-dependently adhered to angiopoietin-1 and angiopoietin-2 similarly to laminin, fibronectin, vitronectin, and more than to collagen-I, -III, and -IV. Adhesion was divalent cation-mediated (Mn2+, Ca2+, not Mg2+), blocked with EDTA/EGTA, RGD-based peptides, and select integrin subunit antibodies. Similar findings were obtained with human skeletal myocytes (HSMs) and freshly isolated rat neonatal cardiac myocytes (NCMs). Furthermore, angiopoietin-1 conferred significant survival advantage exceeding that of most cell matrices, which was not fully explained by differences in cell adhesion. Angiopoietin-1 promoted survival of serum-starved C2C12, HSM, and NCM (MTT, trypan blue) and prevented taxol-induced apoptosis (caspase-3). Immobilized and soluble angiopoietin-1 phosphorylated Akt(S473) and MAPK(p42/44), (not FAK(Y397)) in C2C12 more than in endothelial cells and more than did angiopoietin-2 or cell matrices. EDTA, RGD-based peptides, and some integrin antibodies blocked these responses. Angiopoietin-1 activated HSM and NCM Akt(S473) and MAPK(p42/44) survival pathways. We propose that this novel function contributes to developmental and cardioprotective actions of angiopoietin-1 presently attributed to vascular effects alone. Angiopoietin-1 may prove therapeutically valuable in cardiac remodeling by supporting myocyte viability and preserving pump function. The full text of this article is available online at http://circres.ahajournals.org.

Structural and functional properties of CCN proteins

The CCN family currently comprises six members (CCN1-6) that regulate diverse cell functions, including mitogenesis, adhesion, apoptosis, extracellular matrix (ECM) production, growth arrest, and migration. These properties can result in a multiplicity of effects during development, differentiation, wound healing, and disease states, such as tumorigenesis and fibrosis. CCN proteins have emerged as major regulators of chondrogenesis, angiogenesis, and fibrogenesis. CCN proteins are mosaic in nature and consist of up to four structurally conserved modules, at least two of which are involved in binding to cell surfaces via molecules that include integrins, heparan sulfate proteoglycans, and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein. CCN proteins use integrins as signal transducing receptors to regulate context-dependent responses in individual cell types. The involvement of integrins in mediating CCN signaling allows for considerable plasticity in response because some effects are specific for certain integrin subtypes and integrin signaling is coordinated with other signaling pathways in the cell. In addition to their own biological properties, CCN proteins regulate the functions of other bioactive molecules (e.g., growth factors) via direct binding interactions. CCN molecules demonstrate complex multifaceted modes of action and regulation and have emerged as important matricellular regulators of cell function.

Combinatorial antibody libraries from cancer patients yield ligand-mimetic Arg-Gly-Asp-containing immunoglobulins that inhibit breast cancer metastasis

Combinatorial antibody libraries have the potential to display the entire immunological record of an individual, allowing one to detect and recover any antibody ever made, irrespective of whether it is currently being produced. We have termed this the "fossil record" of an individual's antibody response. To determine whether cancer patients have ever made antibodies with disease-fighting potential, we screened combinatorial antibody libraries from cancer patients for immunoglobulins that can identify metastatic tumor cells. This strategy yielded human antibodies specific for the activated conformation of the adhesion receptor integrin alphavbeta3 that is associated with a metastatic phenotype. In a remarkable example of convergent evolution, two of these antibodies were shown to contain the Arg-Gly-Asp integrin recognition motif of the natural ligand within the third complementarity-determining region of the heavy chain. These antibodies interfered with lung colonization by human breast cancer cells in a mouse model and inhibited existing metastatic disease. Our data imply that, at least at some time, these antibodies were part of a patient's surveillance system against metastatic cells, targeting the activated conformer of integrin alphavbeta3 and disrupting its functions. The ligand-mimetic nature of these antibodies, combined with specificity for a single receptor, is unique in the integrin-ligand repertoire. The convergent evolution of critical sequences in antibodies and other ligands that bind to the same target means that the immune response has sufficient power to find a best chemical solution for the optimization of binding energy, even though antibodies evolve in real time, as compared with billions of years for the natural ligand.