Detection of activated double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase in 3T3-F442A cells

Phosphorylated PKR contributes the induction of GRP94 under ER stress

Phosphorylated double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase (PKR) is thought to play an important role during ER stress induced cell death, but its molecular mechanism of action has not yet been clarified completely. To resolve this issue, we employed a PKR inhibitor together with ER stress inducers (tunicamycin, thapsigargin, and 2-deoxyglucose) and found that this treatment applied to SK-N-SH and HepG2 cells suppressed the expressional induction of 94kDa glucose regulated protein (GRP94) but not GRP78 proteins at both protein and mRNA levels. Although GRP94 mRNA increased, no significant difference was observed in the mRNA level of spliced X box binding protein 1 (XBP1) and reporter gene assay using GRP78 and GRP94 promoter with an ER stress response element (ERSE) showed that PKR inhibitor did not affect their activity. These results suggest that a novel mechanism other than ERSE-dependent mRNA transcription is required for the induction of GRP94 and phosphorylation of PKR contributes to the induction of GRP94 under ER stress.

The protein kinase PKR: a molecular clock that sequentially activates survival and death programs

Cell death and survival play a key role in the immune system as well as during development. The control mechanisms that balance cell survival against cell death are not well understood. Here we report a novel strategy used by a single protein to regulate chronologically cell survival and death. The interferon-induced protein kinase PKR acts as a molecular clock by using catalysis-dependent and -independent activities to temporally induce cell survival prior to cell death. We show that the proapoptotic protein PKR surprisingly activates a survival pathway, which is mediated by NF-kappaB to delay apoptosis. Cell death is then induced by PKR through the phosphorylation of eIF-2alpha. This unique temporal control might serve as a paradigm for other kinases whose catalytic activity is not required for all of their functions.

Genetically Targeted Cancer Therapy

The is a double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase (PKR) has been largely investigated for its key role in viral host defense. Although best characterized by its function in mediating the antiviral and antiproliferative effects of interferon (IFN), PKR is also implicated in transcriptional regulation, cell differentiation, signal transduction, and tumor suppression. However, recent findings identifying PKR as an important effector of apoptosis have led to an increased interest in PKR modulation as an antitumor strategy. PKR can either be up-regulated through direct induction by the transcription factor E2F-1, or it can be activated through direct protein-protein interactions with the melanoma differentiation-associated gene-7 (MDA7, IL-24). Additionally, the intracellular formation of double-stranded RNA by transfection with antisense RNA complementary to tumor-specific RNA sequences can induce PKR activation and apoptosis selective to these tumor cells. The growing application of viral vector-based gene therapies and oncolytic, replicating viruses that must elude viral defense in order to be effective, has also drawn attention to PKR. Oncolytic viruses, like the attenuated herpes simplex virus R3616, the vesicular stomatitis virus, or reovirus, specifically replicate in tumor cells only because the viral host defense in the permissive cells is suppressed. In this article we review the role of PKR as an effector of apoptosis and a target for tumor treatment strategies and discuss the potential of PKR-modifying agents to treat patients with cancer. Targeted gene therapy against cancer can be approached by activation of PKR with the down-regulation of protein synthesis and induction of apoptosis, or by suppression of PKR with the propagation of oncolytic virus. Since the PKR pathway can be modified by many routes, antitumor therapies combining oncolytic virus, gene therapies, and chemotherapy with PKR modifiers are likely to emerge in the near future as therapeutic options in the treatment of patients with cancer.

Production of the antiviral proteins 2'5'oligoadenylate synthetase, PKR and Mx in interstitial cells and spermatogonia

We report an in vitro analysis of the spatial pattern of production of three antiviral proteins (2'5'oligoadenylate synthetase, 2'5'AS; double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase, PKR; and Mx protein, Mx) in the rat testis, in basal conditions and following stimulation with interferon (IFN) or Sendai virus. The two major constituents of interstitial tissue--Leydig cells and macrophages--constitutively produce 2'5' oligoadenylate synthetase (2'5'AS), PKR and Mx. Production of an isoform of 2'5'AS was induced following Leydig cells stimulation by the Sendai virus. The most immature germ cells, spermatogonia, were devoid of 2'5'AS whatever the type of stimulation, whereas IFN treatment induced Mx production and increased PKR production in this cell type. IFN stimulation strongly increased PKR production in all three cell types. This new set of data extends our previous investigations and demonstrates that the testis possesses an anti-viral defense system involving IFNs and IFN-induced anti-viral proteins.

In vivo effects of the Epstein-Barr virus small RNA EBER-1 on protein synthesis and cell growth regulation

Recent studies have suggested a role for the Epstein-Barr virus-encoded RNA EBER-1 in malignant transformation. EBER-1 inhibits the activity of the protein kinase PKR, an inhibitor of protein synthesis with tumour suppressor properties. In human 293 cells and murine embryonic fibroblasts, transient expression of EBER-1 promoted total protein synthesis and enhanced the expression of cotransfected reporter genes. However reporter gene expression was stimulated equally well in cells from control and PKR knockout mice. NIH 3T3 cells stably expressing EBER-1 exhibited a greatly increased frequency of colony formation in soft agar, and protein synthesis in these cells was relatively resistant to inhibition by the calcium ionophore A23187. Nevertheless clones containing a high concentration of EBER-1 were not invariably tumourigenic. We conclude that EBER-1 can enhance protein synthesis by a PKR-independent mechanism and that, although this RNA may contribute to the oncogenic potential of Epstein-Barr virus, its expression is not always sufficient for malignant transformation.

Initiation factor eIF2 alpha phosphorylation in stress responses and apoptosis

The alpha subunit of polypeptide chain initiation factor eIF2 can be phosphorylated by a number of related protein kinases which are activated in response to cellular stresses. Physiological conditions which result in eIF2 alpha phosphorylation include virus infection, heat shock, iron deficiency, nutrient deprivation, changes in intracellular calcium, accumulation of unfolded or denatured proteins and the induction of apoptosis. Phosphorylated eIF2 acts as a dominant inhibitor of the guanine nucleotide exchange factor eIF2B and prevents the recycling of eIF2 between successive rounds of protein synthesis. Extensive phosphorylation of eIF2 alpha and strong inhibition of eIF2B activity can result in the downregulation of the overall rate of protein synthesis; less marked changes may lead to alterations in the selective translation of alternative open reading frames in polycistronic mRNAs, as demonstrated in yeast. These mechanisms can provide a signal transduction pathway linking eukaryotic cellular stress responses to alterations in the control of gene expression at the translational level.

A cell-permeable peptide inhibits activation of PKR and enhances cell proliferation

The double-stranded RNA dependent protein kinase (PKR) is a negative regulator of cell proliferation and thus itself a target for modulation. We show that a cell-permeable peptide (PRI), containing a conserved double-stranded RNA binding motif found in PKR, inhibits activation of the kinase and activity to phosphorylate its substrate. Further, the PRI-peptide localizes to the cytoplasm of murine embryonic fibroblasts and ablates cellular PKR activation. The PRI-peptide enhances cell proliferation compared to treatment with a variant control peptide, resulting in cultures with increased cell density. We conclude that peptides that interfere with PKR may be useful tools for regulating cell proliferation.

NF-kappaB activation by double-stranded-RNA-activated protein kinase (PKR) is mediated through NF-kappaB-inducing kinase and IkappaB kinase

The interferon (IFN)-inducible double-stranded-RNA (dsRNA)-activated serine-threonine protein kinase (PKR) is a major mediator of the antiviral and antiproliferative activities of IFNs. PKR has been implicated in different stress-induced signaling pathways including dsRNA signaling to nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappaB). The mechanism by which PKR mediates activation of NF-kappaB is unknown. Here we show that in response to poly(rI). poly(rC) (pIC), PKR activates IkappaB kinase (IKK), leading to the degradation of the inhibitors IkappaBalpha and IkappaBbeta and the concomitant release of NF-kappaB. The results of kinetic studies revealed that pIC induced a slow and prolonged activation of IKK, which was preceded by PKR activation. In PKR null cell lines, pIC failed to stimulate IKK activity compared to cells from an isogenic background wild type for PKR in accord with the inability of PKR null cells to induce NF-kappaB in response to pIC. Moreover, PKR was required to establish a sustained response to tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and to potentiate activation of NF-kappaB by cotreatment with TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma. By coimmunoprecipitation, PKR was shown to be physically associated with the IKK complex. Transient expression of a dominant negative mutant of IKKbeta or the NF-kappaB-inducing kinase (NIK) inhibited pIC-induced gene expression from an NF-kappaB-dependent reporter construct. Taken together, these results demonstrate that PKR-dependent dsRNA induction of NF-kappaB is mediated by NIK and IKK activation.

Caspase-mediated cleavage of eukaryotic translation initiation factor subunit 2alpha

Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2alpha (eIF-2alpha), a target molecule of the interferon-inducible double-stranded-RNA-dependent protein kinase (PKR), was cleaved in apoptotic Saos-2 cells on treatment with poly(I).poly(C) or tumour necrosis factor alpha. This cleavage occurred with a time course similar to that of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase, a well-known caspase substrate. In addition, eIF-2alpha was cleaved by recombinant active caspase-3 in vitro. By site-directed mutagenesis, the cleavage site was mapped to an Ala-Glu-Val-Asp(300) downward arrowGly(301) sequence located in the C-terminal portion of eIF-2alpha. PKR phosphorylates eIF-2alpha on Ser(51), resulting in the suppression of protein synthesis. PKR-mediated translational suppression was repressed when the C-terminally cleaved product of eIF-2alpha was overexpressed in Saos-2 cells, even though PKR can phosphorylate this cleaved product. These results suggest that caspase-3 or related protease(s) can modulate the efficiency of protein synthesis by cleaving the alpha subunit of eIF-2, a key component in the initiation of translation.

Basic fibroblast growth factor stimulates cytosolic phospholipase A2, phospholipase C-gamma1 and phospholipase D through distinguishable signaling mechanisms

Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) stimulate proliferation, differentiation and motility of different cell types. The cellular effects of FGF are transduced by its interaction with any one of four members of a family of high affinity, cell surface FGF receptors (FGFRs) that have autophosphorylating tyrosine kinase activity. Activation of FGFR causes release of various low molecular weight signaling molecules which are required for the pleotropic effects of FGFs. We report here that basic FGF plays critical role in membrane phospholipid hydrolysis in NIH 3T3 cells that are stably transfected with FGFR1. Upon binding to FGFR1, basic FGF stimulates cytosolic form of phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), phospholipase C-gamma1 (PLC-gamma1) and phospholipase D (PLD), the key enzymes for the production of various lipid second messengers, in a tyrosine kinase-dependent manner. In addition to tyrosine phosphorylation, cPLA2 catalytic activation requires serine phosphorylation by p42 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase and possibly pertussis toxin-sensitive G-protein coupling. On the other hand, phosphatidyl inositol 4,5 bisphosphate (PIP2) hydrolysis requires direct phosphorylation at tyrosine residue of the PLC-gamma1 isozyme. The activation of PLD needs direct or indirect receptor tyrosine kinase and protein kinase C (PKC) activities. Additionally, it also requires botulinum toxin C-sensitive Rho-like G-protein activation. All these results suggest that the pleotropic effects of FGF are exerted through its tyrosine kinase receptors and individual effectors are activated via distinguishable signaling mechanisms according to the cell's need.

The emerging role of the interferon-induced PKR protein kinase as an apoptotic effector: a new face of death?

Recent research has thrown a spotlight on the interferon (IFN)-induced PKR protein kinase, implicating it as an important effector of apoptosis induced by several cellular stress conditions, including viral infection, cytokine treatment, and growth factor deprivation. In this review, we summarize the evidence for the role of PKR as a death accomplice and discuss how PKR might promote cell demise in light of current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of apoptosis. Given its new found role and its established antiviral function, it is no wonder that PKR is a popular target for viral evasion of the host defense. PKR-dependent apoptosis may offer a novel cell-death pathway for specific manipulation in therapeutic strategies against apoptosis-related diseases.

Involvement of double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase in the synergistic activation of nuclear factor-kappaB by tumor necrosis factor-alpha and gamma-interferon in preneuronal cells

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and gamma-interferon (IFN-gamma) cooperate during a variety of biological responses and ultimately synergistically enhance the expression of genes involved in immune and inflammatory responses. Recently, we demonstrated that IFN-gamma can significantly potentiate TNF-alpha-induced nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB nuclear translocation in neuronal derived and endothelial cell lines. The mechanism by which these two cytokines exert their synergistic effect on NF-kappaB involves the de novo degradation of the NF-kappaB inhibitor, IkappaBbeta. The double-stranded RNA-dependent kinase PKR is IFN-inducible and has been implicated in the activation of NF-kappaB; therefore, we examined the possibility that PKR may play a role in the synergistic activation of NF-kappaB during TNF-alpha/IFN-gamma cotreatment. The PKR inhibitor 2-aminopurine (2-AP) inhibited TNF-alpha/IFN-gamma-induced NF-kappaB nuclear translocation in neuronal derived cells but not in endothelial cells. The induced degradation of IkappaBbeta, which is normally observed upon TNF-alpha/IFN-gamma cotreatment, was blocked completely by 2-AP in neuronal derived cells. Also, 2-AP treatment or overexpression of a catalytically inactive PKR inhibited the TNF-alpha/IFN-gamma-induced synergistic activation of kappaB-dependent gene expression. Our results suggest that the signal generated by IFN-gamma during TNF-alpha/IFN-gamma cotreatment may require PKR to elicit enhanced NF-kappaB activity, and this signal may affect the stability of the IkappaBbeta protein.

Double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase (PKR) is negatively regulated by 60S ribosomal subunit protein L18

The double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-activated protein kinase (PKR) provides a fundamental control step in the regulation of protein synthesis initiation through phosphorylation of the alpha subunit of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 (eIF-2alpha), a process that prevents polypeptide chain initiation. In such a manner, activated PKR inhibits cell growth and induces apoptosis, whereas disruption of normal PKR signaling results in unregulated cell growth. Therefore, tight control of PKR activity is essential for regulated cell growth. PKR is activated by dsRNA binding to two conserved dsRNA binding domains within its amino terminus. We isolated a ribosomal protein L18 by interaction with PKR. L18 is a 22-kDa protein that is overexpressed in colorectal cancer tissue. L18 competed with dsRNA for binding to PKR, reversed dsRNA binding to PKR, and did not directly bind dsRNA. Mutation of K64E within the first dsRNA binding domain of PKR destroyed both dsRNA binding and L18 interaction, suggesting that the two interactive sites overlap. L18 inhibited both PKR autophosphorylation and PKR-mediated phosphorylation of eIF-2alpha in vitro. Overexpression of L18 by transient DNA transfection reduced eIF-2alpha phosphorylation and stimulated translation of a reporter gene in vivo. These results demonstrate that L18 is a novel regulator of PKR activity, and we propose that L18 prevents PKR activation by dsRNA while PKR is associated with the ribosome. Overexpression of L18 may promote protein synthesis and cell growth in certain cancerous tissue through inhibition of PKR activity.

Cell cycle regulation of the double stranded RNA activated protein kinase, PKR

The interferon (IFN)-induced, double stranded RNA (dsRNA)-activated serine/threonine kinase, PKR, is a potent negative regulator of cell growth when overexpressed in yeast or mammalian cells. To determine whether endogenous PKR plays a role in cell growth control, we have investigated the regulation of PKR levels and activity during the cell cycle in human glioblastoma T98G cells. The steady-state level of PKR mRNA in T98G cells was highest in growth arrested cells, dropped sharply within 3 h of serum stimulation then gradually increased as cells progressed through G1, reaching a plateau in early S phase. PKR protein level increased following serum stimulation reaching a peak at the G2+M boundary and declining thereafter. In contrast, PKR kinase activity exhibited two peaks, in early G1 and at the G1/S boundary, declining sharply in early S phase. Thus, the activity profile did not follow the protein profile indicating a tight regulation of PKR at the level of activity. In T98G cells expressing the catalytically inactive PKRK296R the dsRNA-induced activation of NF-kappaB and IRF-1 was suppressed and the mutant cells exhibited resistance to stress induced apoptosis. Cell cycle distribution analysis showed that the mutant expressing cells exhibited longer G1 phase and fewer cells engaged in S phase. Furthermore, early passage mouse embryo fibroblasts derived from PKR knockout mice grew more slowly compared with the control cells. Taken together these results suggest that PKR may play a role in cell cycle progression.

Interferons and interferon-induced antiviral proteins in the testis

Despite the dramatic development of sexually transmissible diseases, the antiviral capabilities of testicular cells have not yet been explored. Interferons (IFNs) are proteins playing a key role in the antiviral defense system, their activity being mediated by several IFN-induced proteins. In the present study, we have investigated both the expression of IFN and of the three main IFN-induced proteins by isolated testicular cells. The highest responders to a viral stimulation in terms of IFN production are the Leydig and the Sertoli cells, followed by peritubular cells and testicular macrophages, while germ cells are devoid or virtually devoid of IFN and IFN-induced protein expression. Sertoli cells constitutively expressed the three IFN-induced proteins tested, and their levels were greatly increased after exposure to Sendai virus. Peritubular cells were also able to markedly express these three proteins after viral exposure. In conclusion, we hypothesize that, for a virus coming from the blood, the first testicular line of defence is ensured by Leydig cells and testicular macrophages, the second line being ensured by the myoid cells, lining the seminiferous tubules, and by Sertoli cells. These two barriers are probably fundamental in protecting both androgen production and spermatogenesis.

Biochemical and genetic evidence for complex formation between the influenza A virus NS1 protein and the interferon-induced PKR protein kinase

The interferon (IFN)-induced protein kinase (PKR) functions as a gatekeeper of mRNA translation initiation and is, therefore, a key mediator of the host IFN-induced antiviral defense system. Many viruses have invested countermeasures against PKR. Some apparently use more than one mechanism. The influenza virus can repress PKR activity through the use of at least two factors, the cellular P58IPK protein and the viral NS1 protein. The exact mode of action of the latter has not been established. Here, using a coprecipitation assay, we found that PKR could form a complex with NS1 in crude cell extracts prepared from influenza virus-infected HeLa cells. The NS1-PKR interaction was verified by using the yeast two-hybrid system and an in vitro binding assay. Deletion analysis mapped the NS1 binding site to the N-terminal 98 residues of PKR regulatory region. Furthermore, an NS1 mutant, which lacks PKR inhibitory activity, did not bind PKR. Finally, the functional role of NS1 in PKR inhibition was substantiated using an in vivo assay for PKR activity. These results support the role of NS1 in PKR modulation during viral infection that is mediated through a complex formation between the two proteins.

Isolation of the gene encoding the Drosophila melanogaster homolog of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae GCN2 eIF-2alpha kinase

Genomic and cDNA clones homologous to the yeast GCN2 eIF-2alpha kinase (yGCN2) were isolated from Drosophila melanogaster. The identity of the Drosophila GCN2 (dGCN2) gene is supported by the unique combination of sequence encoding a protein kinase catalytic domain and a domain homologous to histidyl-tRNA synthetase and by the ability of dGCN2 to complement a deletion mutant of the yeast GCN2 gene. Complementation of Deltagcn2 in yeast by dGCN2 depends on the presence of the critical regulatory phosphorylation site (serine 51) of eIF-2alpha. dGCN2 is composed of 10 exons encoding a protein of 1589 amino acids. dGCN2 mRNA is expressed throughout Drosophila development and is particularly abundant at the earliest stages of embryogenesis. The dGCN2 gene was cytogenetically and physically mapped to the right arm of the third chromosome at 100C3 in STS Dm2514. The discovery of GCN2 in higher eukaryotes is somewhat unexpected given the marked differences between the amino acid biosynthetic pathways of yeast vs. Drosophila and other higher eukaryotes. Despite these differences, the presence of GCN2 in Drosophila suggests at least partial conservation from yeast to multicellular organisms of the mechanisms responding to amino acid deprivation.

Phosphorylation of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 mediates apoptosis in response to activation of the double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase

The interferon-inducible, double-stranded (ds) RNA-dependent serine/threonine protein kinase (PKR) plays a role in viral pathogenesis, cell growth, and differentiation and is implicated as a tumor suppressor gene. Expression of a trans-dominant negative, catalytically inactive mutant PKR protected NIH3T3 cells from apoptosis in response to either treatment with tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha), serum deprivation. In cells expressing mutant PKR, TNF alpha, but not dsRNA induced transcription from a nuclear factor kappa B-dependent promoter, demonstrating specificity for dsRNA in signaling through the PKR pathway. Serum or platelet-derived growth factor addition to serum-deprived mutant PKR-expressing cells induced transcription of the early response genes c-fos and c-jun, indicating that the immediate early response signaling was intact. Overexpression of wild-type PKR in a transient DNA transfection system was sufficient to induce apoptosis. TNF alpha-induced apoptosis correlated with increased phosphorylation of the alpha subunit of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 (eIF-2 alpha), the primary physiological substrate of the PKR. Furthermore, forced expression of a nonphosphorylatable S51A mutant eIF-2 alpha partially protected cells from TNF alpha-induced apoptosis, and expression of a S51D mutant eIF-2 alpha, a mutant that mimics phosphorylated eIF-2 alpha, was sufficient to induce apoptosis. Taken together, these studies identify a novel requirement for PKR in stress-induced apoptosis that is mediated through eIF-2 alpha phosphorylation.

Interaction of the human protein kinase PKR with the mouse PKR homolog occurs via the N-terminal region of PKR and does not inactivate autophosphorylation activity of mouse PKR

The RNA-dependent protein kinase (PKR) is implicated in the antiviral and antiproliferative actions of interferon. Mutant forms of human PKR display a transdominant behavior when expressed in transfected cells. The potential for the human PKR protein to physically interact with the mouse PKR homolog has therefore been examined. The yeast two-hybrid system was used to probe the association between mouse and human PKR proteins as measured by activation of two Gal4-responsive reporter genes, HIS3 and IacZ. Expression of full-length wild-type mouse PKR(1-515)WT as a Gal4 fusion protein did not exhibit the growth suppression phenotype in yeast characteristic of wild-type human PKR(1-551)WT. Coexpression of mouse PKR(1-515)WT as a Gal4 DNA-binding domain fusion with either the catalytic-deficient human PKR(1-551) K296R mutant, the RNA-binding-deficient human PKR(1-551)K64E/K296R double mutant, or wild-type mouse PKR(1-515)WT as full-length PKR-Gal4 activation domain fusions resulted in activation of the HIS3 and lacZ reporters. The N-terminal RNA-binding region of human PKR, both WT and the K64E RNA-binding-deficient mutant, also interacted with mouse PKR(1-515)WT sufficiently to activate the reporters but the human catalytic region did not. Mouse and human full-length PKR proteins expressed as glutathione S-transferase (GST) fusions in Escherichia coli were purified on Sepharose beads. Using GST-PKR fusion chromatography, direct physical interaction between the mouse and human PKR homologs was established. Intraspecies PKR interactions were more efficient than interspecies PKR interactions, and interactions between RNA-binding-sufficient PKR proteins were more efficient than those involving an RNA-binding mutant as measured by binding to GST-PKR protein Sepharose beads. The N-terminal region of human PKR within amino acids 1-184 was sufficient for binding mouse PKR. Purified mouse full-length PKR(1-515)WT GST fusion protein retained kinase activity on Sepharose beads, but the activity was not impaired by association with either the full-length or the N-terminal region of human PKR.

The testicular antiviral defense system: localization, expression, and regulation of 2'5' oligoadenylate synthetase, double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase, and Mx proteins in the rat seminiferous tubule

Although the involvement of viruses in alterations of testicular function and in sexually transmitted diseases is well known, paradoxically, the testicular antiviral defense system has virtually not been studied. The well known antiviral activity of interferons (IFNs) occurs via the action of several IFN-induced proteins, among which the 2'5' oligoadenylate synthetase (2'5' A synthetase), the double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase (PKR), and the Mx proteins are the best known. To explore the antiviral capacity of the testis and to study the testicular action of IFNs, we looked for the presence and regulation of these three proteins in isolated seminiferous tubule cells, cultured in the presence or in the absence of IFN alpha, IFN gamma, or Sendai virus. In all conditions tested, the meiotic pachytene spermatocytes and the post-meiotic early spermatids lacked 2'5' A synthetase, PKR, and Mx mRNAs and proteins. In contrast, Sertoli cells constitutively expressed these mRNAs and proteins, and their levels were greatly increased after IFN alpha or Sendai virus exposure. While peritubular cells were also able to markedly express 2'5' A synthetase, PKR, and Mx mRNA and proteins after IFN alpha or viral exposure, only PKR was constitutively present in these cells. Interestingly, IFN gamma had no effect on peritubular cells' 2'5' A synthetase and Mx production but it enhanced Mx proteins in Sertoli cells. In conclusion, this study reveals that the seminiferous tubules are particularly well equipped to react to a virus attack. The fact that the two key tubular elements of the blood-testis barrier, namely, Sertoli and peritubular cells, were found to assume this protection allows the extension of the concept of blood-testis barrier to the testicular antiviral defense.

Regulation of translational initiation during cellular responses to stress

Chemicals and conditions that damage proteins, promote protein misfolding, or inhibit protein processing trigger the onset of protective homeostatic mechanisms resulting in "stress responses" in mammalian cells. Included in these responses are an acute inhibition of mRNA translation at the initiation step, a subsequent induction of various protein chaperones, and the recovery of mRNA translation. Separate, but closely related, stress response systems exist for the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), relating to the induction of specific "glucose-regulated proteins" (GRPs), and for the cytoplasm, pertaining to the induction of the "heat shock proteins" (HSPs). Activators of the ER stress response system, including Ca(2+)-mobilizing and thiol-reducing agents, are discussed and compared to activators of the cytoplasmic stress system, such as arsenite, heavy metal cations, and oxidants. An emerging integrative literature is reviewed that relates protein chaperones associated with cellular stress response systems to the coordinate regulation of translational initiation and protein processing. Background information is presented describing the roles of protein chaperones in the ER and cytoplasmic stress response systems and the relationships of chaperones and protein processing to the regulation of mRNA translation. The role of chaperones in regulating eIF-2 alpha kinase activities, eIF-2 cycling, and ribosomal loading on mRNA is emphasized. The putative role of GRP78 in coupling rates of translation to processing is modeled, and functional relationships between the HSP and GRP chaperone systems are discussed.

The double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase PKR: structure and function

This review describes the structure and function of the interferon (IFN)-inducible, double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase PKR. This protein kinase has been studied extensively in recent years, and a large body of evidence has accumulated concerning its expression, interaction with regulatory RNA and protein molecules, and modes of activation and inhibition. PKR has been shown to play a variety of important roles in the regulation of translation, transcription, and signal transduction pathways through its ability to phosphorylate protein synthesis initiation factor eIF2, I-kappaB (the inhibitor of NF-kappaB), and other substrates. Expression studies involving both the wild-type protein and dominant negative mutants of PKR have established roles for the enzyme in the antiviral effects of IFNs, in the responses of uninfected cells to physiologic stresses, and in cell growth regulation. The possibility that PKR may function as a tumor suppressor and inducer of apoptosis suggests that this IFN-regulated protein kinase may be of central importance to the control of cell proliferation and transformation.

Characterization and mapping of the double-stranded regions involved in activation of PKR within a cellular RNA from 3T3-F442A cells

PKR is a doubled-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase which is implicated in the regulation of several cellular processes, including cell proliferation. PKR undergoes phosphorylation and activation in mouse embryonic 3T3-F442A cells in response to endogenous RNA(s). Activation of PKR is related to growth and differentiation of these cells. A cellular regulatory RNA (R-RNA) which activates PKR has been isolated from these cells and its cDNA partially sequenced. Here we have characterized the R-RNA transcript with respect to nuclease sensitivity and the extent of double-stranded structure involved in activation of PKR. The location of the activating sequence was mapped to a contiguous 226/252 nt region of the R-RNA transcript by hybridization to its cDNA fragments. Hybridization with a panel of short oligodeoxynucleotides complementary to the R-RNA, coupled with protein kinase analysis, was used to probe the 252 nt region for critical sequences. Three short non-contiguous sequences which appear most important for activation of PKR were identified within the 252 nt region. Thus, these studies have identified specific sequences most important for activation of PKR. Furthermore, since the above antisense oligodeoxynucleotides inhibit enzyme activation, our results exemplify an unusual mode of action of antisense sequences on the activation of PKR by disruption of RNA secondary structure.

Chemotherapeutic purine analogs alter the level of interferon-beta mRNA induced by poly I-poly C in cultured osteosarcoma cells

The purine nucleoside analogs fludarabine, 2-chlorodeoxyadenosine, and 2'-deoxycoformycin exhibit impressive activity in lymphoproliferative malignancies of adults and children. Their mechanism of action is not clear. Studies have suggested that their use is associated with significant myelosuppression, immunosuppression, and in some circumstances, increased infection with viral and opportunistic pathogens. Because interferons (IFNs) are known to have immunomodulatory activity as well as potent antiproliferative and antiviral activity, we examined whether the chemotherapeutic purine nucleoside analogs alter interferon-beta (IFN-B) gene expression in MG63 in human osteosarcoma cells. Northern blot analysis showed a dose-dependent inhibition of IFN-B mRNA accumulation in response to a known inducer (Poly I-Poly C) all three purine analogs. Hybridization analysis also revealed that inhibition of IFN-beta mRNA accumulation by the purine analogs is not a result of decreased mRNA stability. Further analysis of gene expression by PCR differential display indicated that the effect of the purine analogs was restricted to only a limited number of inducible genes. The data suggest that these molecules alter the signaling process involved in regulating the expression of specific genes, including IFN-beta. These findings predict that the use of purine nucleoside analogs may reduce IFN production in vivo and thereby abrogate host defenses against infectious pathogens.

A model for the double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-dependent dimerization and activation of the dsRNA-activated protein kinase PKR

Binding of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) to PKR induces autophosphorylation and activation. However, the requirement for dsRNA in promoting dimerization and the requirement for dimerization in PKR activation are controversial. We have studied the dsRNA binding and dimerization requirements for the activation of PKR in vivo. Co-expression and immunoprecipitation experiments detected an interaction between the K296P mutant and a bacteriophage T7-epitope-tagged K64E mutant of dsRNA binding domain. In contrast, the K64E/K296P double mutant did not form a detectable dimer with the wild-type dsRNA binding domain. These results support that dimerization of intact PKR with the isolated dsRNA binding domain requires dsRNA binding activity. Expression of the isolated PKR kinase domain (residues 228-551) reduced translation of the reporter mRNA even in the presence of PKR inhibitors. Furthermore, the isolated kinase domain (residues 228-551) undergoes autophosphorylation and sequentially transphosphorylates both mutant K296P PKR and wild-type eIF-2alpha in vitro. In contrast, the isolated kinase domain (residues 264-551) lacking the third basic region was not active. These observations lead us to propose that the dsRNA binding domains on intact PKR inhibit kinase activity and that dsRNA binding to intact PKR induces a conformational change to expose dimerization sites within the dsRNA binding domain thereby promoting dimerization and facilitating trans-phosphorylation and activation.

A herpesvirus genetic element which affects translation in the absence of the viral GADD34 function

Novel suppressor variants of conditionally lethal HSV-1 gamma34.5 deletion mutants have been isolated which exhibit restored ability to grow on neoplastic neuronal cells. Deletion of the viral gamma34.5 genes, whose products share functional similarity with the cellular GADD34 gene, renders the virus non-neurovirulent and imposes a block to viral replication in neuronal cells. Protein synthesis ceases at late times post-infection and the translation initiation factor eIF2alpha is phosphorylated by the cellular PKR kinase [Chou et al. (1990) Science, 252, 1262-1266; (1995) Proc. Natl Acad. Sci. USA, 92, 10516-10520]. The suppressor mutants have overcome the translational block imposed by PKR. Multiple, independent isolates all contain rearrangements within a 595 bp element in the HSV-1 genome where the unique short component joins the terminal repeats. This alteration, which affects the production of the viral mRNA and protein from the Us11 and Us12 genes, is both necessary and sufficient to confer the suppressor phenotype on gamma34.5 mutant viruses. HSV-1 thus encodes a specific element which inhibits ongoing protein synthesis in the absence of the viral GADD34-like function. Since this inhibition involves the accumulation of phosphorylated eIF2alpha, the element identified by the suppressor mutations may be a discrete PKR activator. Activation of the PKR kinase thus does not proceed through a general, cellular 'antiviral' sensing mechanism. Instead, the virus deliberately activates PKR and encodes a separate function which selectively prevents the phosphorylation of at least one PKR target, eIF2alpha. The nature of this potential activator element, and how analogous cellular elements could affect PKR pathways which affect growth arrest and differentiation are discussed.

Deficient signaling in mice devoid of double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase

Double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase (PKR) has been implicated in interferon (IFN) induction, antiviral response and tumor suppression. We have generated mice devoid of functional PKR (Pkr%). Although the mice are physically normal and the induction of type I IFN genes by poly(I).poly(C) (pIC) and virus is unimpaired, the antiviral response induced by IFN-gamma and pIC was diminished. However, in embryo fibroblasts from Pkr knockout mice, the induction of type I IFN as well as the activation of NF-kappa B by pIC, were strongly impaired but restored by priming with IFN. Thus, PKR is not directly essential for responses to pIC, and a pIC-responsive system independent of PKR is induced by IFN. No evidence of the tumor suppressor activity of PKR was demonstrated.

Regulation of the interferon-inducible protein kinase PKR and (2'-5')oligo(adenylate) synthetase by a catalytically inactive PKR mutant through competition for double-stranded RNA binding

The interferon-inducible double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase PKR has been suggested to function as a tumour suppressor gene product. Catalytically inactive mutants of PKR give rise to a tumorigenic phenotype when overexpressed in NIH-3T3 fibroblasts and this has been attributed to a dominant negative effect on the activity of the wild-type enzyme. Here we show that the mutant with Lys296 replaced by Arg, [K296R]PKR, not only inhibits the protein kinase activity of wild-type PKR but is also inhibitory towards another double-stranded RNA-dependent enzyme, the 40-kDa form of (2'-5')oligo(adenylate) synthetase. Inhibition of both wild-type PKR and (2'-5')oligo(adenylate) synthetase is reversed by adding higher concentrations of double-stranded RNA. These results suggest competition between [K296R]PKR and wild-type PKR or (2'-5')oligo(adenylate) synthetase for limiting amounts of double-stranded RNA. Moreover, the data imply that the tumorigenic effect of this PKR mutant could be due to inhibition of additional pathways requiring low levels of double-stranded RNA for activation and cannot be unambiguously attributed to inhibition of endogenous PKR itself.

Activation of the double-stranded RNA-regulated protein kinase by depletion of endoplasmic reticular calcium stores

Perturbants of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), including Ca(2+)-mobilizing agents, provoke a rapid suppression of translational initiation in conjunction with an increased phosphorylation of the alpha-subunit of eukaryotic initiation factor (eIF)-2. Depletion of ER Ca2+ stores was found to signal the activation of a specific eIF-2 alpha kinase. Analysis of extracts derived from cultured cells that had been pretreated with Ca2+ ionophore A23187 or thapsigargin revealed a 2-3-fold increase in eIF-2 alpha kinase activity without detectable changes in eIF-2 alpha phosphatase activity. A peptide of 65-68 kDa, which was phosphorylated concurrently with eIF-2 alpha in extracts of pretreated cells, was identified as the interferon-inducible, double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-regulated protein kinase (PKR). Depletion of ER Ca2+ stores did not alter the PKR contents of extracts. When incubated with reovirus dsRNA, extracts derived from cells with depleted ER Ca2+ stores displayed greater degrees of phosphorylation of PKR and of eIF-2 alpha than did control extracts. The enhanced dsRNA-dependent phosphorylation of PKR was observed regardless of prior induction of the kinase with interferon. Lower concentrations of dsRNA were required for maximal phosphorylation of PKR in extracts of treated as compared to control preparations. These findings suggest that PKR mediates the translational suppression occurring in response to perturbation of ER Ca2+ homeostasis.

TAR RNA-binding protein is an inhibitor of the interferon-induced protein kinase PKR

A cDNA encoding a double-stranded-RNA (dsRNA)-binding protein was isolated by screening a HeLa cell cDNA expression library for proteins that bind the HIV-1 Rev-responsive-element RNA. The cDNA encoded a protein that was identical to TRBP, the previously reported cellular protein that binds the transactivation response element (TAR) RNA of human immunodeficiency virus type 1. TRBP inhibited phosphorylation of the interferon-induced ribosome-associated protein kinase PKR and of the eukaryotic translation initiation factor eIF-2 alpha in a transient-expression system in which the translation of a reporter gene was inhibited by the localized activation of PKR. TRBP expression in HeLa cells complemented the growth and protein-synthesis defect of a vaccinia virus mutant lacking the expression of the dsRNA-binding protein E3L. These results implicate TRBP as a cellular regulatory protein that binds RNAs containing specific secondary structure(s) to mediate the inhibition of PKR activation and stimulate translation in a localized manner.

The 58-kilodalton inhibitor of the interferon-induced double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase is a tetratricopeptide repeat protein with oncogenic properties

The interferon-induced RNA-dependent protein kinase (PKR) is considered to play an important role in the cellular defense against viral infection and, in addition, has been suggested to be a tumor suppressor gene because of its growth-suppressive properties. Activation of PKR by double-stranded RNAs leads to the phosphorylation of the alpha subunit of eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF-2 alpha) and a resultant block to protein synthesis initiation. To avoid the consequences of kinase activation, many viruses have developed strategies to down-regulate PKR. Recently, we reported on the purification and characterization of a cellular inhibitor of PKR (referred to as p58), which is activated during influenza virus infection. Subsequent cloning and sequencing has revealed that p58 is a member of the tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) family of proteins. To further examine the physiological role of this PKR inhibitor, we stably transfected NIH 3T3 cells with a eukaryotic expression plasmid containing p58 cDNA under control of the cytomegalovirus early promoter. By taking advantage of a recently characterized p58 species-specific monoclonal antibody, we isolated cell lines that overexpressed p58. These cells exhibited a transformed phenotype, growing at faster rates and higher saturation densities and exhibiting anchorage-independent growth. Most importantly, inoculation of nude mice with p58-overexpressing cells gave rise to the production of tumors. Finally, murine PKR activity and endogenous levels of eIF-2 alpha phosphorylation were reduced in the p58-expressing cell lines compared with control cells. These data, taken together, suggest that p58 functions as an oncogene and that one mechanism by which the protein induces malignant transformation is through the down-regulation of PKR and subsequent deregulation of protein synthesis.

The 58,000-dalton cellular inhibitor of the interferon-induced double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase (PKR) is a member of the tetratricopeptide repeat family of proteins

PKR is a serine/threonine protein kinase induced by interferon treatment and activated by double-stranded RNAs. As a result of activation, PKR becomes autophosphorylated and catalyzes phosphorylation of the alpha subunit of protein synthesis eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF-2). While studying the regulation of PKR in virus-infected cells, we found that a cellular 58-kDa protein (P58) was recruited by influenza virus to downregulate PKR and thus avoid the kinase's deleterious effects on viral protein synthesis and replication. We now report on the cloning, sequencing, expression, and structural analysis of the P58 PKR inhibitor, a 504-amino-acid hydrophilic protein. P58, expressed as a histidine fusion protein in Escherichia coli, blocked both the autophosphorylation of PKR and phosphorylation of the alpha subunit of eIF-2. Western blot (immunoblot) analysis showed that P58 is present not only in bovine cells but also in human, monkey, and mouse cells, suggesting the protein is highly conserved. Computer analysis revealed that P58 contains regions of homology to the DnaJ family of proteins and a much lesser degree of similarity to the PKR natural substrate, eIF-2 alpha. Finally, P58 contains nine tandemly arranged 34-amino-acid repeats, demonstrating that the PKR inhibitor is a member of the tetratricopeptide repeat family of proteins, the only member identified thus far with a known biochemical function.

The 58,000-dalton cellular inhibitor of the interferon-induced double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase (PKR) is a member of the tetratricopeptide repeat family of proteins

PKR is a serine/threonine protein kinase induced by interferon treatment and activated by double-stranded RNAs. As a result of activation, PKR becomes autophosphorylated and catalyzes phosphorylation of the alpha subunit of protein synthesis eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF-2). While studying the regulation of PKR in virus-infected cells, we found that a cellular 58-kDa protein (P58) was recruited by influenza virus to downregulate PKR and thus avoid the kinase's deleterious effects on viral protein synthesis and replication. We now report on the cloning, sequencing, expression, and structural analysis of the P58 PKR inhibitor, a 504-amino-acid hydrophilic protein. P58, expressed as a histidine fusion protein in Escherichia coli, blocked both the autophosphorylation of PKR and phosphorylation of the alpha subunit of eIF-2. Western blot (immunoblot) analysis showed that P58 is present not only in bovine cells but also in human, monkey, and mouse cells, suggesting the protein is highly conserved. Computer analysis revealed that P58 contains regions of homology to the DnaJ family of proteins and a much lesser degree of similarity to the PKR natural substrate, eIF-2 alpha. Finally, P58 contains nine tandemly arranged 34-amino-acid repeats, demonstrating that the PKR inhibitor is a member of the tetratricopeptide repeat family of proteins, the only member identified thus far with a known biochemical function.

Reversal of an interferon-gamma-resistant phenotype by poly(I:C): possible role of double-stranded RNA-activated kinase in interferon-gamma signaling

Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) is induced in neoplastic cell lines by interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) treatment. In ME180 cervical carcinoma cells, there is a rapid increase in IDO mRNA accumulation beginning at 4 h after IFN-gamma treatment and continuing for at least 24 h. The IFN-gamma-resistant mutant of ME180, IR3B6B, expresses very low levels of IDO message after IFN-gamma treatment. However, pretreatment of this mutant with poly(I:C) restores normal levels of IDO mRNAs and IDO enzyme activity. Poly(I:C) mediated reversal of the IFN-gamma-resistant phenotype and induction of IDO mRNA are inhibited by 2-aminopurine. In vitro phosphorylation of calf thymus histone using the immunoprecipitated p68 kinase prepared from IFN-gamma-treated ME180 and IR3B6B cells revealed the deficiency of activation of this kinase in IR3B6B cells after IFN-gamma treatment, and treatment of this mutant cells with poly(I:C) restores p68 kinase activity. From these results, we conclude that a double-stranded RNA-dependent kinase is activated by IFN-gamma treatment and its activation correlates with IFN-gamma-mediated induction of the IDO gene.

Action of spontaneously produced beta interferon in differentiation of embryonal carcinoma cells through an autoinduction mechanism

In the current study, we have addressed the role of interferons (IFNs) in controlling the differentiation of pluripotent P19 embryonal carcinoma (EC) cells. Blocking IFN activity in the culture medium of differentiating cells with antibodies leads to a strong decrease in the degree of differentiation. The antibodies are active for a relatively short time. During this time, IFN-beta mRNA can be detected in the differentiating cells, as can increases of IFN stimulation response element-binding activity and NF-KB. The timing of IFN action also coincides with the accumulation of cytoplasmic double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) and with a drop in dsRNA unwindase-modificase activity. A model for the involvement of autoinduction of IFN by intracellular dsRNA in the control of differentiation in this system is presented.

Translational regulation by the interferon-induced double-stranded-RNA-activated 68-kDa protein kinase

Activation of the interferon-inducible 68-kDa protein kinase (referred to as P68) by double-stranded RNA catalyzes phosphorylation of the alpha subunit of eukaryotic protein synthesis initiation factor 2. We have analyzed the transient expression of mutant and wild-type kinase molecules in transfected COS cells to examine the effects of the kinase on gene expression in the absence of other interferon-induced gene products. The wild-type P68 kinase was expressed inefficiently whereas a catalytically inactive P68 was expressed at 30- to 40-fold higher levels. Protein stability measurements and primer-extension analysis of human kinase-specific mRNA levels provided evidence that kinase expression was regulated at the level of mRNA translation. Further, cotransfection experiments revealed that the domain II catalytically inactive mutant could stimulate reporter gene protein synthesis in a transdominant manner. We also examined the expression of mutants with deletions in the N-terminal double-stranded RNA binding domains and found that a kinase construct lacking aa 156-243 was expressed at levels comparable to the wild type whereas a P68 construct lacking aa 91-243 was expressed at levels 70-fold higher. Both the inactive domain II P68 mutant and the deletion mutant lacking aa 91-243 were less inhibitory to growth in yeast due to the reduced ability to phosphorylate initiation factor 2 alpha in vivo. In conclusion we have demonstrated that the P68 kinase can regulate mRNA translation primarily of its own mRNA and to a lesser extent of a heterologous mRNA and that this regulation is notably affected by mutations in either the catalytic or N-terminal regulatory domains.

Action of spontaneously produced beta interferon in differentiation of embryonal carcinoma cells through an autoinduction mechanism

In the current study, we have addressed the role of interferons (IFNs) in controlling the differentiation of pluripotent P19 embryonal carcinoma (EC) cells. Blocking IFN activity in the culture medium of differentiating cells with antibodies leads to a strong decrease in the degree of differentiation. The antibodies are active for a relatively short time. During this time, IFN-beta mRNA can be detected in the differentiating cells, as can increases of IFN stimulation response element-binding activity and NF-KB. The timing of IFN action also coincides with the accumulation of cytoplasmic double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) and with a drop in dsRNA unwindase-modificase activity. A model for the involvement of autoinduction of IFN by intracellular dsRNA in the control of differentiation in this system is presented.

Inhibition of the dsRNA-dependent protein kinase by a peptide derived from the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 Tat protein

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the etiologic agent leading to the development of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Interferons (IFNs) are known for eliciting antiviral responses from cells, and studies have indicated that infection with HIV induces the production of IFN. Previous studies have shown that the trans-acting response element (TAR) sequence of HIV-1 mRNA can activate the IFN-induced double-stranded (ds) RNA-dependent protein kinase (DAI). DAI, when activated, is a potent inhibitor of protein synthesis and has been implicated in mediating part of IFN's antiviral activity. Here, we report that a synthetic peptide containing the basic region of HIV Tat protein is effective in preventing the activation of DAI. Evidence is presented that indicates that the Tat peptide exerts its effect by binding to the TAR RNA sequence and thus preventing this RNA from binding to and activating DAI. It appears that in addition to its role in trans-activation, the tat protein may also function to overcome the antiviral activity of IFN by regulating DAI activity. Thus, inhibition of DAI by the Tat protein early in the life cycle of HIV may provide a mechanism by which the virus can escape a translational block imposed by the kinase.

Expression of the protein kinase p-68 recognized by the monoclonal antibody TJ4C4 in human lung neoplasms

P68 is a protein kinase expressed by eukaryotic cells, which is inducible by alpha interferon, and is believed to be an important factor in the regulation of viral and cellular protein synthesis. We have previously reported on a monoclonal antibody, TJ4C4, which is able to specifically detect p68 in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue. Because of its important role in regulating cellular protein synthesis, we hypothesized that p68 expression would vary among lung neoplasms with level of differentiation and degree of biosynthetic activity. A total of 246 untreated primary pulmonary and pleural neoplasms were studied. The frequency and relative intensity of p68 expression was determined by light microscopic evaluation of ABC immunoperoxidase stained specimens. All categories of tumors studied demonstrated a spectrum of p68 expression. Expression of p68 correlated well with degree of differentiation in squamous cell carcinomas (SQCC) and acinar adenocarcinomas (AAC). Papillary adenocarcinoma (PAC) and bronchioalveolar carcinoma (BAC) expressed low levels of p68, despite their well differentiated appearance. Expression of the antigen in large cell carcinoma (LCC) was higher than that seen in either poorly differentiated AAC or SQCC. Neuroendocrine tumors generally showed low levels of p68 expression with the intermediate variant of small cell carcinoma expressing higher levels of p68 than the classic "oat cell" form (SCC). Carcinoid tumors expressed higher levels of p68 than did atypical carcinoid tumors. Mesotheliomas showed weak expression of p68, limited primarily to areas of glandular differentiation in the epithelioid form.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Malignant transformation by a mutant of the IFN-inducible dsRNA-dependent protein kinase

The double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase (dsRNA-PK) is thought to be a key mediator of the antiviral and antiproliferative effects of interferons (IFNs). Studies examining the physiological function of the kinase suggest that it participates in cell growth and differentiation by regulating protein synthesis. Autophosphorylation and consequent activation of dsRNA-PK in vitro and in vivo result in phosphorylation of the alpha subunit of eukaryotic initiation factor-2 (eIF-2) and inhibition of protein synthesis. Expression of a functionally defective mutant of human dsRNA-PK in NIH 3T3 cells resulted in malignant transformation, suggesting that dsRNA-PK may function as a suppressor of cell proliferation and tumorigenesis.

Gap junctional channels in adult mammalian sinus nodal cells. Immunolocalization and electrophysiology

The subcellular mechanism of cell-to-cell communication in the natural pacemaker region of the mammalian heart was studied using electrophysiological and immunofluorescence techniques in isolated pairs of rabbit sinus nodal cells. By measuring whole-cell currents using a double patch-clamp approach, it was demonstrated that communication in the sinus node is mediated through gap junctional channels similar to those in other types of adult cardiac cell pairs. Macroscopic sinus nodal junctional resistance had a mean value of 387.9 +/- 97.1 M omega (mean +/- SEM, n = 10) and was greatly increased by superfusion with alkanols. Single-channel junctional conductance could be resolved in three cell pairs. Given their high membrane resistance (1.16 +/- 0.32 G omega, n = 12), the electrical coupling provided by as few as three gap junctional channels between nodal cells will allow for pacemaker synchronization. Further evidence for the presence of the channels was obtained from immunofluorescent double-labeling of desmin and the gap junction protein (connexin43) in sinus nodal tissue as well as in cultured sinus nodal cells. Using antisera against residues 243-257 of the connexin43 protein, a specific staining at the site of cell-to-cell apposition was demonstrated. These data provide direct evidence in favor of electronic coupling as the means for achieving pacemaker synchronization in the rabbit sinus node.