Secretion of apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins from HeLa cells is dependent on expression of the microsomal triglyceride transfer protein and is regulated by lipid availability

Biosynthesis and Metabolism of ApoB-Containing Lipoproteins

Recent advances in human genetics, together with a substantial body of epidemiological, preclinical and clinical trial evidence, strongly support a causal relationship between triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (TRLs) and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Consequently, the secretion and metabolism of TRLs have a significant impact on cardiovascular health. This knowledge underscores the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms and regulation of very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and chylomicron biogenesis. Fortunately, there has been a resurgence of interest in the intracellular assembly, trafficking, degradation, and secretion of VLDL, leading to many ground-breaking molecular insights. Furthermore, the identification of molecular control mechanisms related to triglyceride metabolism has greatly advanced our understanding of the complex metabolism of TRLs. In this review, we explore recent advances in the assembly, secretion, and metabolism of TRLs. We also discuss available treatment strategies for hypertriglyceridemia.

PRAP1 is a novel lipid-binding protein that promotes lipid absorption by facilitating MTTP-mediated lipid transport

Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP) is an endoplasmic reticulum resident protein that is essential for the assembly and secretion of triglyceride (TG)-rich, apoB-containing lipoproteins. Although the function and structure of mammalian MTTP have been extensively studied, how exactly MTTP transfers lipids to lipid acceptors and whether there are other biomolecules involved in MTTP-mediated lipid transport remain elusive. Here we identify a role in this process for the poorly characterized protein PRAP1. We report that PRAP1 and MTTP are partially colocalized in the endoplasmic reticulum. We observe that PRAP1 directly binds to TG and facilitates MTTP-mediated lipid transfer. A single amino acid mutation at position 85 (E85V) impairs PRAP1's ability to form a ternary complex with TG and MTTP, as well as impairs its ability to facilitate MTTP-mediated apoB-containing lipoprotein assembly and secretion, suggesting that the ternary complex formation is required for PRAP1 to facilitate MTTP-mediated lipid transport. PRAP1 is detectable in chylomicron/VLDL-rich plasma fractions, suggesting that MTTP recognizes PRAP1-bound TG as a cargo and transfers TG along with PRAP1 to lipid acceptors. Both PRAP1-deficient and E85V knock-in mutant mice fed a chow diet manifested an increase in the length of their small intestines, likely to compensate for challenges in absorbing lipid. Interestingly, both genetically modified mice gained significantly less body weight and fat mass when on high-fat diets compared with littermate controls and were prevented from hepatosteatosis. Together, this study provides evidence that PRAP1 plays an important role in MTTP-mediated lipid transport and lipid absorption.

Model systems for studying the assembly, trafficking, and secretion of apoB lipoproteins using fluorescent fusion proteins

apoB exists as apoB100 and apoB48, which are mainly found in hepatic VLDLs and intestinal chylomicrons, respectively. Elevated plasma levels of apoB-containing lipoproteins (Blps) contribute to coronary artery disease, diabetes, and other cardiometabolic conditions. Studying the mechanisms that drive the assembly, intracellular trafficking, secretion, and function of Blps remains challenging. Our understanding of the intracellular and intraorganism trafficking of Blps can be greatly enhanced, however, with the availability of fusion proteins that can help visualize Blp transport within cells and between tissues. We designed three plasmids expressing human apoB fluorescent fusion proteins: apoB48-GFP, apoB100-GFP, and apoB48-mCherry. In Cos-7 cells, transiently expressed fluorescent apoB proteins colocalized with calnexin and were only secreted if cells were cotransfected with microsomal triglyceride transfer protein. The secreted apoB-fusion proteins retained the fluorescent protein and were secreted as lipoproteins with flotation densities similar to plasma HDL and LDL. In a rat hepatoma McA-RH7777 cell line, the human apoB100 fusion protein was secreted as VLDL- and LDL-sized particles, and the apoB48 fusion proteins were secreted as LDL- and HDL-sized particles. To monitor lipoprotein trafficking in vivo, the apoB48-mCherry construct was transiently expressed in zebrafish larvae and was detected throughout the liver. These experiments show that the addition of fluorescent proteins to the C terminus of apoB does not disrupt their assembly, localization, secretion, or endocytosis. The availability of fluorescently labeled apoB proteins will facilitate the exploration of the assembly, degradation, and transport of Blps and help to identify novel compounds that interfere with these processes via high-throughput screening.

Endoplasmic reticulum quality control in lipoprotein metabolism

Lipids play a critical role in energy metabolism, and a suite of proteins is required to deliver lipids to tissues. Several of these proteins require an intricate endoplasmic reticulum (ER) quality control (QC) system and unique secondary chaperones for folding. Key examples include apolipoprotein B (apoB), which is the primary scaffold for many lipoproteins, dimeric lipases, which hydrolyze triglycerides from circulating lipoproteins, and the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), which clears cholesterol-rich lipoproteins from the circulation. ApoB requires specialized proteins for lipidation, dimeric lipases lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and hepatic lipase (HL) require a transmembrane maturation factor for secretion, and the LDLR requires several specialized, domain-specific chaperones. Deleterious mutations in these proteins or their chaperones may result in dyslipidemias, which are detrimental to human health. Here, we review the ER quality control systems that ensure secretion of apoB, LPL, HL, and LDLR with a focus on the specialized chaperones required by each protein.

Soft Drusen in Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Biology and Targeting Via the Oil Spill Strategies

AMD is a major cause of legal blindness in older adults approachable through multidisciplinary research involving human tissues and patients. AMD is a vascular-metabolic-inflammatory disease, in which two sets of extracellular deposits, soft drusen/basal linear deposit (BLinD) and subretinal drusenoid deposit (SDD), confer risk for end-stages of atrophy and neovascularization. Understanding how deposits form can lead to insights for new preventions and therapy. The topographic correspondence of BLinD and SDD with cones and rods, respectively, suggest newly realized exchange pathways among outer retinal cells and across Bruch's membrane and the subretinal space, in service of highly evolved, eye-specific physiology. This review focuses on soft drusen/BLinD, summarizing evidence that a major ultrastructural component is large apolipoprotein B,E-containing, cholesterol-rich lipoproteins secreted by the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) that offload unneeded lipids of dietary and outer segment origin to create an atherosclerosis-like progression in the subRPE-basal lamina space. Clinical observations and an RPE cell culture system combine to suggest that soft drusen/BLinD form when secretions of functional RPE back up in the subRPE-basal lamina space by impaired egress across aged Bruch's membrane-choriocapillary endothelium. The soft drusen lifecycle includes growth, anterior migration of RPE atop drusen, then collapse, and atrophy. Proof-of-concept studies in humans and animal models suggest that targeting the “Oil Spill in Bruch's membrane” offers promise of treating a process in early AMD that underlies progression to both end-stages. A companion article addresses the antecedents of soft drusen within the biology of the macula.

Redox diversity in ERAD-mediated protein retrotranslocation from the endoplasmic reticulum: a complex puzzle

Misfolded and incorrectly assembled proteins in the secretory pathway are eliminated by ubiquitylation and proteasomal degradation in a process known as ER-associated degradation (ERAD). Retrotranslocation of diverse substrates including misfolded proteins and viruses occurs through channels in the ER membrane, which are also utilized for host cell penetration by A/B class protein toxins such as cholera toxin, ricin or K28. According to the current view, disulfide-bonded proteins must either be reduced or rearranged to ensure translocation competence and entry into the cytosol from the ER. As the underlying mechanisms are still largely mysterious, we here focus on the redox status and disulfide isomerization of ERAD substrates and the role of oxidoreductases in the essential process of ER-to-cytosol retrotranslocation.

Effects of β-hydroxybutyricacid on the synthesis and assembly of very low-density lipoprotein in bovine hepatocytes in vitro

β-Hydroxybutyricacid (BHBA) is an important metabolite that involved in the development of ketosis and fatty liver in dairy cows. Dairy cows with fatty liver displayed high blood concentration of BHBA and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) assembly. The effects of BHBA on VLDL synthesis and assembly in hepatocytes of cows were unclear. In this study, bovine hepatocytes were cultured and treated with different concentrations of BHBA. We found that BHBA treatment upregulated the mRNA and protein levels of apolipoprotein B100 (ApoB 100), apolipoprotein E (ApoE) and microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP) and showed in a firstly increased and then decreased trend. Meanwhile, the mRNA and protein levels of LDLR showed in a reverse trend. Consequently, VLDL content was significantly increased in medium-dose BHBA treatment group, while decreased in high-dose group. These results indicate that the effects of BHBA on the VLDL synthesis showed in a dose-dependent manner that low levels of BHBA increase VLDL synthesis and high levels of BHBA decrease VLDL synthesis.

Insights from human congenital disorders of intestinal lipid metabolism

The intestine must challenge the profuse daily flux of dietary fat that serves as a vital source of energy and as an essential component of cell membranes. The fat absorption process takes place in a series of orderly and interrelated steps, including the uptake and translocation of lipolytic products from the brush border membrane to the endoplasmic reticulum, lipid esterification, Apo synthesis, and ultimately the packaging of lipid and Apo components into chylomicrons (CMs). Deciphering inherited disorders of intracellular CM elaboration afforded new insight into the key functions of crucial intracellular proteins, such as Apo B, microsomal TG transfer protein, and Sar1b GTPase, the defects of which lead to hypobetalipoproteinemia, abetalipoproteinemia, and CM retention disease, respectively. These "experiments of nature" are characterized by fat malabsorption, steatorrhea, failure to thrive, low plasma levels of TGs and cholesterol, and deficiency of liposoluble vitamins and essential FAs. After summarizing and discussing the functions and regulation of these proteins for reader's comprehension, the current review focuses on their specific roles in malabsorptions and dyslipidemia-related intestinal fat hyperabsorption while dissecting the spectrum of clinical manifestations and managements. The influence of newly discovered proteins (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 and angiopoietin-like 3 protein) on fat absorption has also been provided. Finally, it is stressed how the overexpression or polymorphism status of the critical intracellular proteins promotes dyslipidemia and cardiometabolic disorders.

Mice that produce ApoB100 lipoproteins in the RPE do not develop drusen yet are still a valuable experimental system

PURPOSE

Mice typically produce apolipoprotein B (apoB)-48 and not apoB100. Apolipoprotein B100 accumulates in Bruch's membrane prior to basal deposit and drusen formation during the onset of AMD, raising the possibility that they are a trigger for these Bruch's membrane alterations. The purpose herein, was to determine whether mice that predominantly produce apoB100 develop features of AMD.

METHODS

The eyes of mice that produce apoB100 were examined for apoB100 synthesis, cholesteryl esterase/filipin labeling for cholesteryl esters, and transmission electron microscopy for lipid particles and phenotype.

RESULTS

Apolipoprotein B100 was abundant in the RPE-choroid of apoB100, but not wild-type mice by Western blot analysis. The apolipoprotein B100,(35)S-radiolabeled and immunoprecipitated from RPE explants, confirmed that apoB100 was synthesized by RPE. Apolipoprotein B100, but not control mice, had cholesteryl esters and lipid particles in Bruch's membrane. Immunoreactivity of ApoB100 was present in the RPE and Bruch's membrane, but not choroidal endothelium of apoB100 mice. Ultrastructural changes were consistent with aging, but not AMD when aged up to 18 months. The induction of advanced glycation end products to alter Bruch's membrane, did not promote basal linear deposit or drusen formation.

CONCLUSIONS

Mice that produce apoB100 in the RPE and liver secrete lipoproteins into Bruch's membrane, but not to the extent that distinct features of AMD develop, which suggests that either additional lipoprotein accumulation or additional factors are necessary to initiate their formation.

A polymorphism in the microsomal triglyceride transfer protein can predict the response to antiviral therapy in Egyptian patients with chronic hepatitis C virus genotype 4 infection

BACKGROUND/AIMS

A polymorphism in the microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) is associated with hepatic fibrosis, and carriers showed higher levels of steatosis, higher levels of hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA and advanced fibrosis. The aim of this study was to study MTP expression pattern in HCV patients and impact of the MTP polymorphism on the response to antiviral therapy.

METHODS

One hundred consecutive naive HCV genotype 4 patients were recruited to receive antiviral therapy, and 40 control subjects were also recruited. Demographic, laboratory, and histopathology data were collected. DNA was isolated, and the samples were subjected to polymerase chain reaction analysis and genotyping for MTP by restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis.

RESULTS

Patients and controls were age- and sex-matched (male/female, 56/44, age, 39.2±7.8 years for patients with HCV; male/female, 18/22, age, 38.1±8.1 years for controls). MTP single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (GG, GT, TT) and alleles (G, T) in the patients versus the controls were 70%, 21%, 9% & 80.5%, 19.5% versus 10%, 87.5%, 2.5% & 53.8%, 46.3%, respectively (p=0.0001). The sustained viral response (SVR) of the patients was 60%. SNPs in MTP genotypes (GG, GT, and TT) and alleles (G and T) in the responders and nonresponders were 71.7%, 25%, 3.3% & 84.2%, 15.8% versus 67.5%, 15%, 17.5% & 75%, 25% (p=0.038 and p=0.109, respectively). A multivariate analysis showed that the GT genotype was an independent predictor of SVR (area under the curve 90% and p=0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

MTP could be a new predictor for SVR to antiviral therapy in patients with HCV genotype 4 infection.

Apolipoprotein B100 quality control and the regulation of hepatic very low density lipoprotein secretion

Apolipoprotein B (apoB) is the main protein component of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) and is necessary for the assembly and secretion of these triglyceride (TG)-rich particles. Following release from the liver, VLDL is converted to low density lipoprotein (LDL) in the plasma and increased production of VLDL can therefore play a detrimental role in cardiovascular disease. Increasing evidence has helped to establish VLDL assembly as a target for the treatment of dyslipidemias. Multiple factors are involved in the folding of the apoB protein and the formation of a secretion-competent VLDL particle. Failed VLDL assembly can initiate quality control mechanisms in the hepatocyte that target apoB for degradation. ApoB is a substrate for endoplasmic reticulum associated degradation (ERAD) by the ubiquitin proteasome system and for autophagy. Efficient targeting and disposal of apoB is a regulated process that modulates VLDL secretion and partitioning of TG. Emerging evidence suggests that significant overlap exists between these degradative pathways. For example, the insulin-mediated targeting of apoB to autophagy and postprandial activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) may employ the same cellular machinery and regulatory cues. Changes in the quality control mechanisms for apoB impact hepatic physiology and pathology states, including insulin resistance and fatty liver. Insulin signaling, lipid metabolism and the hepatic UPR may impact VLDL production, particularly during the postprandial state. In this review we summarize our current understanding of VLDL assembly, apoB degradation, quality control mechanisms and the role of these processes in liver physiology and in pathologic states.

Expression of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein in lipoprotein-synthesizing tissues of the developing chicken embryo

In contrast to mammals, in the chicken major sites of lipoprotein synthesis and secretion are not only the liver and intestine, but also the kidney and the embryonic yolk sac. Two key components in the assembly of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins are the microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) and apolipoprotein B (apoB). We have analyzed the expression of MTP in the embryonic liver, small intestine, and kidney, and have studied the expression of MTP in, and the secretion of apoB from, the developing yolk sac (YS). Transcript and protein levels of MTP increase during embryogenesis in YS, liver, kidney, and small intestine, and decrease in YS, embryonic liver, and kidney after hatching. In small intestine, the MTP mRNA level rises sharply during the last trimester of embryo development (after day 15), while MTP protein is detectable only after hatching (day 21). In the YS of 15- and 20-day old embryos, apoB secretion was detected by pulse-chase metabolic radiolabeling experiments and subsequent immunoprecipitation. Taken together, our data reveal the importance of coordinated production of MTP and apoB in chicken tissues capable of secreting triglyceride-rich lipoproteins even before hatching.

•

MTP is expressed in liver, small intestine, and kidney of chicken embryos.

•

MTP is expressed in the chicken yolk sac.

•

ApoB is secreted from the chicken yolk sac.

•

Embryonic tissues contribute to the lipoprotein pool of the developing chick.

Regulation of lipoprotein assembly, secretion and fatty acid β-oxidation by Krüppel-like transcription factor, klf-3

Lipid metabolism is coordinately regulated through signaling networks that integrate biochemical pathways of fat assimilation, mobilization and utilization. Excessive diversion of fat for storage is a key risk factor for many fat-related human diseases. Dietary lipids are absorbed from the intestines and transported to various organs and tissues to provide energy and maintain lipid homeostasis. In humans, disparity between triglycerides (TG) synthesis and removal, via mitochondrial β-oxidation and VLDL (very low density lipoprotein) secretion, causes excessive TG accumulation in the liver. The mutation in Caenorhabditis elegans KLF-3 leads to high TG accumulation in the worm's intestine. Our previous data suggested that klf-3 regulates lipid metabolism by promoting fatty acid β-oxidation. Depletion of cholesterol in the diet has no effect on fat deposition in klf-3 (ok1975) mutants. Addition of vitamin D in the diet, however, increases fat levels in klf-3 worms. This suggests that excess vitamin D may be lowering the rate of fatty acid β-oxidation, with the eventual increase in fat accumulation. We also demonstrate that mutation in klf-3 reduces expression of C. elegans dsc-4 and/or vit genes, the orthologs of mammalian microsomal triglyceride transfer protein and apolipoprotein B, respectively. Both microsomal triglyceride transfer protein and apolipoprotein B are essential for mammalian lipoprotein assembly and transport, and mutation in both dsc-4 (qm182) and vit-5 (ok3239) results in high fat accumulation in worm intestine. Genetic interactions between klf-3 and dsc-4, as well as vit-5 genes, suggest that klf-3 may have an important role in regulating lipid assembly and secretion.

Multiple functions of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein

Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) was first identified as a major cellular protein capable of transferring neutral lipids between membrane vesicles. Its role as an essential chaperone for the biosynthesis of apolipoprotein B (apoB)-containing triglyceride-rich lipoproteins was established after the realization that abetalipoproteinemia patients carry mutations in the MTTP gene resulting in the loss of its lipid transfer activity. Now it is known that it also plays a role in the biosynthesis of CD1, glycolipid presenting molecules, as well as in the regulation of cholesterol ester biosynthesis. In this review, we will provide a historical perspective about the identification, purification and characterization of MTP, describe methods used to measure its lipid transfer activity, and discuss tissue expression and function. Finally, we will review the role MTP plays in the assembly of apoB-lipoprotein, the regulation of cholesterol ester synthesis, biosynthesis of CD1 proteins and propagation of hepatitis C virus. We will also provide a brief overview about the clinical potentials of MTP inhibition.

Protein disulfide isomerases contribute differentially to the endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation of apolipoprotein B and other substrates

ER-associated degradation (ERAD) rids the early secretory pathway of misfolded or misprocessed proteins. Some members of the protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) family appear to facilitate ERAD substrate selection and retrotranslocation, but a thorough characterization of PDIs during the degradation of diverse substrates has not been undertaken, in part because there are 20 PDI family members in mammals. PDIs can also exhibit disulfide redox, isomerization, and/or chaperone activity, but which of these activities is required for the ERAD of different substrate classes is unknown. We therefore examined the fates of unique substrates in yeast, which expresses five PDIs. Through the use of a yeast expression system for apolipoprotein B (ApoB), which is disulfide rich, we discovered that Pdi1 interacts with ApoB and facilitates degradation through its chaperone activity. In contrast, Pdi1's redox activity was required for the ERAD of CPY* (a misfolded version of carboxypeptidase Y that has five disulfide bonds). The ERAD of another substrate, the alpha subunit of the epithelial sodium channel, was Pdi1 independent. Distinct effects of mammalian PDI homologues on ApoB degradation were then observed in hepatic cells. These data indicate that PDIs contribute to the ERAD of proteins through different mechanisms and that PDI diversity is critical to recognize the spectrum of potential ERAD substrates.

Hyperlipidemic guinea pig model: mechanisms of triglyceride metabolism disorder and comparison to rat

Guinea pigs and rats are both common animal models for hyperlipidemia studies. However, many recent studies have suggested that rats do not develop hypertriglyceridemia in response to cholesterol feeding. In the present work, the differences in triglyceride metabolism between guinea pigs and rats were investigated. Feeding a high-fat diet containing 0.1% cholesterol and 10% lard for 4 weeks led to a significant increase in plasma total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglyceride (TG) and free fatty acid (FFA) in guinea pigs but not in rats. By contrast, hepatic TG levels in rats were greatly increased in response to the high-fat diet, while it remained unchanged in guinea pigs. Furthermore, the hepatic acyl CoA:diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT) activity and microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP) mRNA levels in guinea pigs fed a high-fat diet were significantly higher than those in the control group, which implies an increased very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)-TG secretion rate in guinea pigs in response to a high-fat diet. Hepatic carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 (CPT-1) activity and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARα) mRNA levels were upregulated in guinea pigs, but not rats, fed a high-fat diet. These findings may explain the differences in plasma and hepatic TG concentrations between guinea pigs and rats. These results suggest that there are differences in triglyceride metabolism between the two species when fed high-fat diets.

Partner in fat metabolism: role of KLFs in fat burning and reproductive behavior

The abnormalities caused by excess fat accumulation can result in pathological conditions which are linked to several interrelated diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and obesity. This set of conditions, known as metabolic syndrome, is a global pandemic of enormous medical, economic, and social concern affecting a significant portion of the world’s population. Although genetics, physiology and environmental components play a major role in the onset of disease caused by excessive fat accumulation, little is known about how or to what extent each of these factors contributes to it. The worm, Caenorhabditis elegans offers an opportunity to study disease related to metabolic disorder in a developmental system that provides anatomical and genomic simplicity relative to the vertebrate animals and is an excellent eukaryotic genetic model which enable us to answer the questions concerning fat accumulation which remain unresolved. The stored triglycerides (TG) provide the primary source of energy during periods of food deficiency. In nature, lipid stored as TGs are hydrolyzed into fatty acids which are broken down through β-oxidation to yield acetyl-CoA. Our recent study suggests that a member of C. elegans Krüppel-like factor, klf-3 regulates lipid metabolism by promoting FA β-oxidation and in parallel may contribute in normal reproduction and fecundity. Genetic and epigenetic factors that influence this pathway may have considerable impact on fat related diseases in human. Increasing number of studies suggest the role of mammalian KLFs in adipogenesis. This functional conservation should guide our further effort to explore C. elegans as a legitimate model system for studying the role of KLFs in many pathway components of lipid metabolism.

Identification of a gene variant in the master regulator of lipid metabolism SREBP-1 in a family with a novel form of severe combined hypolipidemia

OBJECTIVE

Alterations of lipid metabolism play a pivotal role in the development of atherosclerosis and its complications, today's major mortality risks. The predominant regulators controlling cholesterol- and fatty acids synthesis in liver are the sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs), a family of transcription factors that were formerly identified as cholesterol sensor for LDLR gene expression. Variation of gene structure in these genes might therefore indicate a predisposition to develop complications like myocardial infarction and stroke.

METHODS

We investigated 190 unrelated German subjects, including 69 subjects with LDL-cholesterol <55mg/dl, for mutations in SREBP genes SREBF-1 and SREBF-2 by direct sequencing. The impact on SREBP functionality was analyzed by protein biochemical analyses, promoter reporter gene assays and gene expression studies.

RESULTS

A missense mutation in SREBF-1 (c.332 C>T; P111L) was identified in a subject with LDL-cholesterol <5mg/dl. Examination of the subject's family confirmed the mutation in two of three siblings. Detailed clinical evaluation of these subjects disclose a novel form of primary combined hypolipidemia only in SREBP-1a P111L carriers, characterized by low levels of apoB and apoA1, low triglyceride, LDL-cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol levels. Functional analyses indicated that the mutation abolishes phosphorylation of SREBP-1. As a consequence transcriptional activation of classical target genes, i.e. LDLR, HMG-CoAR, FAS, ABCA1, but also MTTP, was dramatically reduced.

CONCLUSIONS

Phosphorylation of SREBP-1, the master regulator of genes for central rate limiting enzymes of cholesterol and lipid metabolism, appears to be a biological principle with clinical implications.

Cholecystectomy increases hepatic triglyceride content and very-low-density lipoproteins production in mice

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Bile acid (BA) pool size remains unchanged after cholecystectomy (XGB) but it circulates faster, exposing the enterohepatic system to an increased flux of BA. Triglyceride (TG) and BA metabolisms are functionally inter-related. We investigated whether ablation of the gallbladder (GB) modifies hepatic TG metabolism.

METHODS

Male mice were subjected to XGB and fed a normal diet. In some experiments, mice received a 1% nicotinic acid diet to block lipolysis. Parameters of BA and TG metabolism, and microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP) activity were measured 1-2 months after XGB. Serum parameters, hepatic lipids and mRNA expression of genes of lipid metabolism were determined.

RESULTS

BA pool size and synthesis were normal, but biliary BA secretion doubled during the diurnal light phase in XGB mice. Serum and hepatic TG concentrations increased 25% (P<0.02), and hepatic very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL)-TG and apoB-48 productions increased 15% (P<0.03) and 50% (P<0.01), respectively, after XGB. Feeding a 1% nicotinic acid did normalize VLDL production. MTTP activity increased 15% (P<0.005) after XGB. Hepatic free fatty acid (FFA) synthesis and content, and mRNA levels of lipid metabolism-related genes remained normal in XGD mice.

CONCLUSIONS

XGB increased serum and hepatic TG levels, and VLDL production, which were restored to normal by nicotinic acid. The results suggest that FFA flux from adipose tissue to the liver is increased in XGB mice. They support the hypothesis that the GB has a role in the regulation of hepatic TG metabolism and that XGB may favour the accumulation of fat in the liver.

A threonine-based targeting signal in the human CD1d cytoplasmic tail controls its functional expression

CD1d molecules are MHC class I-like molecules that present lipids to a unique subpopulation of T cells called NKT cells. The cytoplasmic tail of human CD1d possesses a tyrosine-based endosomal targeting motif (YXXZ). As such, these molecules traffic through the endocytic pathway, where it is believed that they are loaded with the antigenic lipid that stimulates NKT cells. In the current study, it was found that the T322 residue in the human CD1d tail is a major signal controlling transport to the cell surface and thus its functional expression. Mimicking the phosphorylation of this residue or removal of the entire cytoplasmic tail negates its ability to regulate CD1d trafficking, resulting in lysosomal targeting and degradation. These results demonstrate an important role of a heretofore unknown signal in the cytoplasmic tail of CD1d that may have relevance to other type I integral membrane proteins that traverse through the endocytic pathway.

Apolipoprotein B-containing lipoprotein assembly in microsomal triglyceride transfer protein-deficient McA-RH7777 cells

Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) is required for the assembly and secretion of apolipoprotein (apo) B-containing lipoproteins. Previously, we demonstrated that the N-terminal 1,000 residues of apoB (apoB:1000) are necessary for the initiation of apoB-containing lipoprotein assembly in rat hepatoma McA-RH7777 cells and that these particles are phospholipid (PL) rich. To determine if the PL transfer activity of MTP is sufficient for the assembly and secretion of primordial apoB:1000-containing lipoproteins, we employed microRNA-based short hairpin RNAs (miR-shRNAs) to silence Mttp gene expression in parental and apoB:1000-expressing McA-RH7777 cells. This approach led to 98% reduction in MTP protein levels in both cell types. Metabolic labeling studies demonstrated a drastic 90-95% decrease in the secretion of rat endogenous apoB100-containing lipoproteins in MTP-deficient McA-RH7777 cells compared with cells transfected with negative control miR-shRNA. A similar reduction was observed in the secretion of rat endogenous apoB48 under the experimental conditions employed. In contrast, MTP absence had no significant effect on the synthesis, lipidation, and secretion of human apoB:1000-containing particles. These results provide strong evidence in support of the concept that in McA-RH7777 cells, acquisition of PL by apoB:1000 and initiation of apoB-containing lipoprotein assembly, a process distinct from the conventional first-step assembly of HDL-sized apoB-containing particles, do not require MTP. This study indicates that, in hepatocytes, a factor(s) other than MTP mediates the formation of the PL-rich primordial apoB:1000-containing initiation complex.

Intestinal absorption of long-chain fatty acids: evidence and uncertainties

Over the two last decades, cloning of proteins responsible for trafficking and metabolic fate of long-chain fatty acids (LCFA) in gut has provided new insights on cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in fat absorption. To this systematic cloning period, functional genomics has succeeded in providing a new set of surprises. Disruption of several genes, thought to play a crucial role in LCFA absorption, did not lead to clear phenotypes. This observation raises the question of the real physiological role of lipid-binding proteins and lipid-metabolizing enzymes expressed in enterocytes. The goal of this review is to analyze present knowledge concerning the main steps of intestinal fat absorption from LCFA uptake to lipoprotein release and to assess their impact on health.

Aging, age-related macular degeneration, and the response-to-retention of apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins

The largest risk factor for age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is advanced age. A prominent age-related change in the human retina is the accumulation of histochemically detectable neutral lipid in normal Bruch's membrane (BrM) throughout adulthood. This change has the potential to have a major impact on physiology of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). It occurs in the same compartment as drusen and basal linear deposit, the pathognomonic extracellular, lipid-containing lesions of ARMD. Here we present evidence from light microscopic histochemistry, ultrastructure, lipid profiling of tissues and isolated lipoproteins, and gene expression analysis that this deposition can be accounted for by esterified cholesterol-rich, apolipoprotein B-containing lipoprotein particles constitutively produced by the RPE. This work collectively allows ARMD lesion formation and its aftermath to be conceptualized as a response to the retention of a sub-endothelial apolipoprotein B lipoprotein, similar to a widely accepted model of atherosclerotic coronary artery disease (CAD) (Tabas et al., 2007). This approach provides a wide knowledge base and sophisticated clinical armamentarium that can be readily exploited for the development of new model systems and the future benefit of ARMD patients.

Alternative splicing attenuates transgenic expression directed by the apolipoprotein E promoter-enhancer based expression vector pLIV11

The plasmid vector pLIV11 is used commonly to achieve liver-specific expression of genes of interest in transgenic mice and rabbits. Expression is driven by the human apolipoprotein (apo)E 5' proximal promoter, which includes 5 kb of upstream sequence, exon 1, intron 1, and 5 bp of exon 2. A 3.8 kb 3' hepatic control region, derived from a region approximately 18 kb downstream of the apoE gene, enhances liver-specific expression. Here, we report that cDNA sequences inserted into the multiple cloning site (MCS) of pLIV11, which is positioned just downstream of truncated exon 2, can cause exon 2 skipping. Hence, splicing is displaced to downstream cryptic 3' splice acceptor sites causing deletion of cloned 5' untranslated mRNA sequences and, in some cases, deletion of the 5' end of an open reading frame. To prevent use of cryptic splice sites, the pLIV11 vector was modified with an engineered 3' splice acceptor site inserted immediately downstream of truncated apoE exon 2. Presence of this sequence fully shifted splicing of exon 1 from the native intron 1-exon 2 splice acceptor site to the engineered site. This finding confirmed that sequences inserted into the MCS of the vector pLIV11 can affect exon 2 recognition and provides a strategy to protect cloned sequences from alternative splicing and possible attenuation of transgenic expression.

Localization, function and regulation of the two intestinal fatty acid-binding protein types

Although intestinal (I) and liver (L) fatty acid binding proteins (FABP) have been widely studied, the physiological significance of the presence of the two FABP forms (I- and L-FABP) in absorptive cells remains unknown as do the differences related to their distribution along the crypt-villus axis, regional expression, ontogeny and regulation in the human intestine. Our morphological experiments supported the expression of I- and L-FABP as early as 13 weeks of gestation. Whereas cytoplasmic immunofluorescence staining of L-FABP was barely detectable in the lower half of the villus and in the crypt epithelial cells, I-FABP was visualized in epithelial cells of the crypt-villus axis in all intestinal segments until the adult period in which the staining was maximized in the upper part of the villus. Immunoelectron microscopy revealed more intense labeling of L-FABP compared with I-FABP, accompanied with a heterogeneous distribution in the cytoplasm, microvilli and basolateral membranes. By western blot analysis, I- and L-FABP at 15 weeks of gestation appeared predominant in jejunum compared with duodenum, ileum, proximal and distal colon. Exploration of the maturation aspect documented a rise in L-FABP in adult tissues. Permanent transfections of Caco-2 cells with I-FABP cDNA resulted in decreased lipid export, apolipoprotein (apo) biogenesis and chylomicron secretion. Additionally, supplementation of Caco-2 with insulin, hydrocortisone and epidermal growth factor differentially modulated the expression of I- and L-FABP, apo B-48 and microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP), emphasizing that these key proteins do not exhibit a parallel modulation. Overall, our findings indicate that the two FABPs display differences in localization, regulation and developmental pattern.

Cardiac expression of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein is increased in obesity and serves to attenuate cardiac triglyceride accumulation

Obesity causes lipid accumulation in the heart and may lead to lipotoxic heart disease. Traditionally, the size of the cardiac triglyceride pool is thought to reflect the balance between uptake and β-oxidation of fatty acids. However, triglycerides can also be exported from cardiomyocytes via secretion of apolipoproteinB-containing (apoB) lipoproteins. Lipoprotein formation depends on expression of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP); the mouse expresses two isoforms of MTP, A and B. Since many aspects of the link between obesity-induced cardiac disease and cardiac lipid metabolism remain unknown, we investigated how cardiac lipoprotein synthesis affects cardiac expression of triglyceride metabolism-controlling genes, insulin sensitivity, and function in obese mice. Heart-specific ablation of MTP-A in mice using Cre-loxP technology impaired upregulation of MTP expression in response to increased fatty acid availability during fasting and fat feeding. This resulted in cardiac triglyceride accumulation but unaffected cardiac insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. Long-term fat-feeding of male C57Bl/6 mice increased cardiac triglycerides, induced cardiac expression of triglyceride metabolism-controlling genes and attenuated heart function. Abolishing cardiac triglyceride accumulation in fat-fed mice by overexpression of an apoB transgene in the heart prevented the induction of triglyceride metabolism-controlling genes and improved heart function. The results suggest that in obesity, the physiological increase of cardiac MTP expression serves to attenuate cardiac triglyceride accumulation albeit without major effects on cardiac insulin sensitivity. Nevertheless, the data suggest that genetically increased lipoprotein secretion prevents development of obesity-induced lipotoxic heart disease.

Hepatic denervation impairs the assembly and secretion of VLDL-TAG

VLDL secretion is a regulated process that depends on the availability of lipids, apoB and MTP. Our aim was to investigate the effect of liver denervation upon the secretion of VLDL and the expression of proteins involved in this process. Denervation was achieved by applying a 85% phenol solution onto the portal tract, while control animals were treated with 9% NaCl. VLDL secretion was evaluated by the Tyloxapol method. The hepatic concentration of TAG and cholesterol, and the plasma concentration of TAG, cholesterol, VLDL-TAG, VLDL-cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol were measured, as well as mRNA expression of proteins involved in the process of VLDL assembly. Hepatic acinar distribution of MTP and apoB was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Denervation increased plasma concentration of cholesterol (125.3 +/- 10.1 vs. 67.1 +/- 4.9 mg dL(-1)) and VLDL-cholesterol (61.6 +/- 5.6 vs. 29.4 +/- 3.3 mg dL(-1)), but HDL-cholesterol was unchanged (45.5 +/- 6.1 vs. 36.9 +/- 3.9 mg dL(-1)). Secretion of VLDL-TAG (47.5 +/- 23.8 vs. 148.5 +/- 27.4 mg dL h(-1)) and mRNA expression of CPT I and apoB were reduced (p < 0.01) in the denervated animals. MTP and apoB acinar distribution was not altered in the denervated animals, but the intensity of the reaction was reduced in relation to controls.

Polymorphisms of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein in different hepatitis B virus-infected patients

AIM: To identify the two polymorphisms of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) gene in the Chinese population and to explore their correlation with both hepatitis B virus (HBV) self-limited infection and persistent infection.

METHODS: A total of 316 subjects with self-limited HBV infection and 316 patients with persistent HBV infection (195 subjects without familial history), matched with age and sex, from the Chinese Han population were enrolled in this study. Polymorphisms of MTP at the promoter region -493 and at H297Q were determined by the allele specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

RESULTS: The ratio of males to females was 2.13:1 for each group and the average age in the self-limited and chronic infection groups was 38.36 and 38.28 years, respectively. None of the allelic distributions deviated significantly from that predicted by the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. There was a linkage disequilibrium between H297Q and -493G/T (D’ = 0.77). As the χ² test was used, the genotype distribution of MTP-493G/T demonstrated a significant difference between the self-limited infection group and the entire chronic group or the chronic patients with no family history (χ² = 8.543, P = 0.015 and χ² = 7.199, P = 0.019). The allele distribution at the MTP-493 position also demonstrated a significant difference between the study groups without family history (χ² = 6.212, P = 0.013). The T allele emerged as a possible protective factor which may influence the outcomes of HBV infection (OR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.389-0.897).

CONCLUSION: The polymorphism of the MTP gene, T allele at -493, may be involved in determining the HBV infection outcomes, of which the mechanism needs to be further investigated.

Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein in plasma and cellular lipid metabolism

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review summarizes recent advances about the role of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein in plasma and tissue lipid homeostasis.

RECENT FINDINGS

Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein emerged as a phospholipid transfer protein and acquired triacylglycerol transfer activity during evolution from invertebrates to vertebrates. These activities are proposed to participate in 'nucleation' and 'desorption' steps during the biosynthesis of primordial apoB-containing lipoproteins. Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein also transfers phospholipids to the glycolipid antigen presentation molecule CD1d. Under physiologic conditions, plasma apoB-containing lipoproteins and microsomal triglyceride transfer protein expression exhibit diurnal variations synchronized by food and light. Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein is regulated at the transcriptional level. HNF4alpha is critical for its transcription. Other transcription factors along with coactivators and corepressors modulate microsomal triglyceride transfer protein expression. Reductions in microsomal triglyceride transfer protein mRNA and activity are related to steatosis in HCV-3 infected patients. CCl4 induces steatosis by enhancing proteasomal degradation of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein and can be partially avoided by inhibiting this degradation. Chemical antagonists cause hepatosteatosis, but this was not seen in the absence of fatty acid binding protein.

SUMMARY

Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein is a target to lower plasma lipids and to reduce inflammation in certain immune disorders. More knowledge is required, however, regarding its regulation and its role in the biosynthesis of apoB-containing lipoproteins and CD1d.

IRE1beta inhibits chylomicron production by selectively degrading MTP mRNA

Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) is needed to assemble chylomicrons in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of enterocytes. We explored the role of an ER stress protein, inositol-requiring enzyme 1beta (IRE1beta), in regulating this process. High-cholesterol and high-fat diets decreased intestinal IRE1beta mRNA in wild-type mice. Ire1b(-/-) mice fed high-cholesterol and high-fat diets developed more pronounced hyperlipidemia because these mice secreted more chylomicrons and expressed more intestinal MTP, though not hepatic MTP, than wild-type mice did. Chylomicron secretion and MTP expression also were increased in primary enterocytes isolated from cholesterol-fed Ire1b(-/-) mice. There was no correlation between ER stress and MTP expression. Instead, cell culture studies revealed that IRE1beta, but not its ubiquitous homolog IRE1alpha, decreased MTP mRNA through increased posttranscriptional degradation. Conversely, knockdown of IRE1beta enhanced MTP expression. These studies show that IRE1beta plays a role in regulating MTP and in chylomicron production.

Lipid-based delivery systems and intestinal lymphatic drug transport: a mechanistic update

After oral administration, the majority of drug molecules are absorbed across the small intestine and enter the systemic circulation via the portal vein and the liver. For some highly lipophilic drugs (typically log P > 5, lipid solubility > 50 mg/g), however, association with lymph lipoproteins in the enterocyte leads to transport to the systemic circulation via the intestinal lymph. The attendant delivery benefits associated with lymphatic drug transport include a reduction in first-pass metabolism and lymphatic exposure to drug concentrations orders of magnitude higher than that attained in systemic blood. In the current review we briefly describe the mechanisms by which drug molecules access the lymph and the formulation strategies that may be utilised to enhance lymphatic drug transport. Specific focus is directed toward recent advances in understanding regarding the impact of lipid source (both endogenous and exogenous) and intracellular lipid trafficking pathways on lymphatic drug transport and enterocyte-based first-pass metabolism.

The MTP -493TT genotype is associated with peripheral arterial disease: results from the Linz Peripheral Arterial Disease (LIPAD) Study

OBJECTIVES

Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) transfers lipids into apoprotein B-containing lipoproteins for secretion from liver, intestine, and heart. We hypothesized the -493T single nucleotide polymorphism in the MTP promoter region to be associated with altered lipoprotein levels and with presence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

DESIGN AND METHODS

433 patients with symptomatic PAD and 433 controls matched for sex and age from the Linz Peripheral Arterial Disease (LIPAD) study were genotyped cross-sectionally for the -493T single nucleotide polymorphism in the promoter region of the MTP gene.

RESULTS

The frequency of the -493T allele in patients with PAD was 0.320, whereas it was 0.255 in controls (p<0.001). The MTP -493TT genotype was independently associated with PAD, even after adjustment for LDL cholesterol. The odds ratio of the -493TT MTP genotype for PAD was 3.18 (95% CI, 1.76-5.71) when adjusted for current smoking, arterial hypertension, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, glycohemoglobin, C-reactive protein, and homocysteine. Furthermore, we found an association between the MTP promoter polymorphism and the apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins total-cholesterol (p=0.011), LDL cholesterol (p=0.002) and apolipoprotein B (p=0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results provide preliminary evidence for a potential role of the MTP -493TT genotype in the pathogenesis of PAD.

Adiponectin deficiency suppresses ABCA1 expression and ApoA-I synthesis in the liver

Plasma high density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol levels are inversely correlated with the incidence of cardiovascular diseases. HDL is mainly assembled in the liver through the ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABCA1) pathway. In humans, plasma HDL-cholesterol levels are positively correlated with plasma adiponectin (APN) concentrations. Recently, we reported that APN enhanced apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) secretion and ABCA1 expression in HepG2 cells. In the present study, we investigated HDL assembly in APN-knockout (KO) mice. The apoA-I protein levels in plasma and liver were reduced in APN-KO mice compared with wild-type-mice. The ABCA1 expression in liver was also decreased in APN-KO mice. APN deficiency might cause the impaired HDL assembly by decreasing ABCA1 expression and apoA-I synthesis in the liver.

Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein activity is not required for the initiation of apolipoprotein B-containing lipoprotein assembly in McA-RH7777 cells

We previously demonstrated that the N-terminal 1000 amino acid residues of human apolipoprotein (apo) B (designated apoB:1000) are competent to fold into a three-sided lipovitellin-like lipid binding cavity to form the apoB "lipid pocket" without a structural requirement for microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP). Our results established that this primordial apoB-containing particle is phospholipid-rich (Manchekar, M., Richardson, P. E., Forte, T. M., Datta, G., Segrest, J. P., and Dashti, N. (2004) J. Biol. Chem. 279, 39757-39766). In this study we have investigated the putative functional role of MTP in the initial lipidation of apoB:1000 in stable transformants of McA-RH7777 cells. Inhibition of MTP lipid transfer activity by 0.1 microm BMS-197636 and 5, 10, and 20 microm of BMS-200150 had no detectable effect on the synthesis, lipidation, and secretion of apoB:1000-containing particles. Under identical experimental conditions, the synthesis, lipidation, and secretion of endogenous apoB100-containing particles in HepG2 and parental untransfected McA-RH7777 cells were inhibited by 86-94%. BMS-200150 at 40 microm nearly abolished the secretion of endogenous apoB100-containing particles in HepG2 and parental McA-RH cells but caused only 15-20% inhibition in the secretion of apoB: 1000-containing particles. This modest decrease was attributable to the nonspecific effect of a high concentration of this compound on hepatic protein synthesis, as reflected in a similar (20-25%) reduction in albumin secretion. Suppression of MTP gene expression in stable transformants of McA-RH7777 cells by micro-interfering RNA led to 60-70% decrease in MTP mRNA and protein levels, but it had no detectable effect on the secretion of apoB:1000. Our results provide a compelling argument that the initial addition of phospholipids to apoB:1000 and initiation of apoB-containing lipoprotein assembly occur independently of MTP lipid transfer activity.

ACAT2 stimulates cholesteryl ester secretion in apoB-containing lipoproteins

Previous studies in nonhuman primates revealed a striking positive correlation between liver cholesteryl ester (CE) secretion rate and the development of coronary artery atherosclerosis. CE incorporated into hepatic VLDL is necessarily synthesized by ACAT2, the cholesterol-esterifying enzyme in hepatocytes. We tested the hypothesis that the level of ACAT2 expression, in concert with cellular cholesterol availability, affects the CE content of apolipoprotein B (apoB)-containing lipoproteins. In a model system of lipoprotein secretion using COS cells cotransfected with microsomal triglyceride transfer protein and truncated forms of apoB, ACAT2 expression resulted in a 3-fold increase in microsomal ACAT activity and a 4-fold increase in the radiolabeled CE content of apoB-lipoproteins. After cholesterol-cyclodextrin (Chol-CD) treatment, CE secretion was increased by 27-fold in ACAT2-transfected cells but by only 7-fold in control cells. Chol-CD treatment also caused the percentage of CE in the apoB-lipoproteins to increase from 3% to 33% in control cells and from 16% to 54% in ACAT2-transfected cells. In addition, ACAT2-transfected cells secreted 3-fold more apoB than control cells. These results indicate that under all conditions of cellular cholesterol availability tested, the relative level of ACAT2 expression affects the CE content and, hence, the potential atherogenicity, of nascent apoB-containing lipoproteins.

Increased activity of hepatic microsomal triglyceride transfer protein and bile acid synthesis in gallstone disease

A strong interrelationship exists between the regulation of bile acid (BA) metabolism and hepatic very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) production. We have recently shown that BA synthesis is increased in gallstone disease. We investigated the activity of hepatic microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP) as a surrogate of VLDL production, BA synthesis, and mRNA expression levels of proteins that regulate fatty acid (FA) metabolism in the liver of gallstone (GS) patients compared with GS-free patients. Twenty-seven volunteers subjected to elective surgery; 9 were GS-free and 18 with GS agreed to have a liver biopsy. We quantified by a fluorescence assay the activity of MTTP and by quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (RT-PCR) the mRNA content of hepatic MTTP and genes that regulate hepatic sterol and FA metabolism. Plasma was assayed for lathosterol and 7alpha-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one. Liver histology was normal in GS and GS-free patients. Serum VLDL triglycerides and apoB were significantly increased in GS. Hepatic triglycerides tripled in GS (P<0.001) compared with GS-free. MTTP activity increased 70% (P<0.001). Serum lathosterol and hepatic cholesterol concentrations, and mRNA expressions of MTTP, CD36, and FABP1 were similar in GS-free and GS patients. Hepatic mRNA expression of hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGR) and 3-hydroxyl-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA synthase (HMGS) were significantly decreased--40% and 27%, respectively--in GS. Serum 7alpha-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one was 75% higher, and mRNA expression of CYP7A1 was increased sevenfold (P<0.001) in GS.

CONCLUSION

Hepatic MTTP activity and BA synthesis are increased in GS. Results suggest that hepatic VLDL production and trafficking of BA are increased in gallstone patients.

The assembly of triacylglycerol-rich lipoproteins: an essential role for the microsomal triacylglycerol transfer protein

Raised plasma triacylglycerol is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and an understanding of factors which regulate the synthesis and degradation of lipoproteins which carry triacylglycerol in the blood may lead to novel approaches to the treatment of hypertriacylglycerolaemia. An active microsomal triacylglycerol transfer protein (MTP) is essential for the assembly of particles which transport triacylglycerol through the circulation. After absorption in the intestine, dietary fat and fat-soluble vitamins are incorporated into chylomicrons in the intestinal epithelial cells, and these lipoproteins reach the bloodstream via the lymphatic system. Patients with the rare genetic disorder, abetalipoproteinaemia, in which MTP activity is absent, present clinically with fat-soluble vitamin and essential fatty acid deficiency, indicating a key role for MTP in the movement of fat into the body. The triacylglycerol-rich lipoprotein found in fasting blood, VLDL, is assembled in the liver by an MTP-dependent process similar to chylomicron assembly, and transports triacylglycerol to extra-hepatic tissues such as adipose tissue and heart. In the absence of MTP activity, VLDL are not synthesized and only extremely low levels of triacylglycerol are present in the blood. Dietary components, including fat, cholesterol and ethanol, can modify the expression of the MTP gene and, hence, MTP activity. The present review summarizes current knowledge of the role of MTP in the assembly and secretion of triacylglycerol-rich lipoproteins, and the regulation of its activity in both animal and cell systems.

MEK-ERK inhibition corrects the defect in VLDL assembly in HepG2 cells: potential role of ERK in VLDL-ApoB100 particle assembly

OBJECTIVE

Hepatic VLDL assembly is defective in HepG2 cells, resulting in the secretion of immature triglyceride-poor LDL-sized apoB particles. We investigated the mechanisms underlying defective VLDL assembly in HepG2 and have obtained evidence implicating the MEK-ERK pathway.

METHODS AND RESULTS

HepG2 cells exhibited considerably higher levels of the ERK1/2 mass and activity compared with primary hepatocytes. Inhibition of ERK1/2 using the MEK1/MEK2 inhibitor, U0126 (but not the inactive analogue) led to a significant increase in apoB secretion. In the presence of oleic acid, ERK1/2 inhibition caused a major shift in the lipoprotein distribution with a majority of particles secreted as VLDL, an effect independent of insulin. In contrast, overexpression of constitutively active MEK1 decreased apoB and large VLDL secretion. MEK1/2 inhibition significantly increased both cellular and microsomal TG mass, and mRNA levels for DGAT-1 and DGAT-2. In contrast to ERK, modulation of the PI3-K pathway or inhibition of the p38 MAP kinase, had no effect on lipoprotein density profile. Modulation of the MEK-ERK pathway in primary hamster hepatocytes led to changes in apoB secretion and altered the density profile of apoB-containing lipoproteins.

CONCLUSIONS

Inhibition of the overactive ras-MEK-ERK pathway in HepG2 cells can correct the defect in VLDL assembly leading to the secretion of large, VLDL-sized particles, similar to primary hepatocytes, implicating the MEK-ERK cascade in VLDL assembly in the HepG2 model. Modulation of this pathway in primary hepatocytes also regulates apoB secretion and appears to alter the formation of VLDL-1 sized particles.

The Ile128Thr polymorphism influences stability and ligand binding properties of the microsomal triglyceride transfer protein

The microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP) is essential for the assembly of VLDLs. We recently observed that a polymorphism in the MTTP promoter (-493G>T), which is in allelic association with an isoleucine-to-theronine substitution at position 128 (Ile128Thr) in the expressed protein, confers an increased risk of coronary heart disease. Two variant proteins comprising amino acids 16-297 of intact MTTP, MTTP(N)-Ile128 and MTTP(N)-Thr128, had similar native secondary structure content, as judged by circular dichroism. However, the thermal stability of MTTP(N)-Thr128 was greatly reduced, and this protein was also more extensively cleaved in limited proteolysis experiments compared with MTTP(N)-Ile128; both of these findings support a less compact fold. On adding LDL, which includes natively folded apolipoprotein B (apoB), decreased stability of the MTTP(N)-Thr128-LDL complex was observed compared with that of the MTTP(N)-Ile128-LDL complex. In a refined model of the N-terminal domain of MTTP, residue 128 is located in a surface-exposed position, in the same region as an identified MTTP binding site in the homologous apoB protein. Thus, the Ile128Thr polymorphism confers reduced structural stability, leading to decreased binding of MTTP to LDL particles. Because the major MTTP binding target on LDL is apoB, the Ile128Thr polymorphism could target the MTTP-apoB interaction.

Mechanisms of glucosamine-induced suppression of the hepatic assembly and secretion of apolipoprotein B-100-containing lipoproteins

Glucosamine-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress was recently shown to specifically reduce apolipoprotein B-100 (apoB-100) secretion by enhancing the proteasomal degradation of apoB-100. Here, we examined the mechanisms linking glucosamine-induced ER stress and apoB-lipoprotein biogenesis. Trypsin sensitivity studies suggested glucosamine-induced changes in apoB-100 conformation. Endoglycosidase H studies of newly synthesized apoB-100 revealed glucosamine induced N-linked glycosylation defects resulting in reduced apoB-100 secretion. We also examined glucosamine-induced changes in VLDL assembly and secretion. A dose-dependent (1-10 mM glucosamine) reduction was observed in VLDL-apoB-100 secretion in primary hepatocytes (24.2-67.3%) and rat McA-RH7777 cells (23.2-89.5%). Glucosamine also inhibited the assembly of larger VLDL-, LDL-, and intermediate density lipoprotein-apoB-100 but did not affect smaller HDL-sized apoB-100 particles. Glucosamine treatment during the chase period (posttranslational) led to a 24% reduction in apoB-100 secretion (P < 0.01; n = 4) and promoted post-ER apoB degradation. However, the contribution of post-ER apoB-100 degradation appeared to be quantitatively minor. Interestingly, the glucosamine-induced posttranslational reduction in apoB-100 secretion could be partially prevented by treatment with desferrioxamine or vitamin E. Together, these data suggest that cotranslational glucosamine treatment may cause defects in apoB-100 N-linked glycosylation and folding, resulting in enhanced proteasomal degradation. Posttranslationally, glucosamine may interfere with the assembly process of apoB lipoproteins, leading to post-ER degradation via nonproteasomal pathways.

Phospholipid Transfer Activity of Microsomal Triacylglycerol Transfer Protein Is Sufficient for the Assembly and Secretion of Apolipoprotein B Lipoproteins

Human microsomal triacylglycerol transfer protein (hMTP) is essential for apolipoprotein B (apoB)-lipoprotein assembly and secretion and is known to transfer triacylglycerols, cholesterol esters, and phospholipids. To understand the relative importance of each lipid transfer activity, we compared the ability of hMTP and its Drosophila ortholog (dMTP) to assemble apoB lipoproteins and to transfer various lipids. apoB48 secretion was induced when co-expressed with either hMTP or dMTP in COS cells, and oleic acid supplementation further augmented secretion without altering particle density. C-terminal epitope-tagged dMTP (dMTP-FLAG) facilitated the secretion of apoB polypeptides in the range of apoB48 to apoB72 but was approximately 50% as efficient as hMTP-FLAG. Comparison of lipid transfer activities revealed that although phospholipid transfer was similar in both orthologs, dMTP was unable to transfer neutral lipids. We conclude that the phospholipid transfer activity of MTP is sufficient for the assembly and secretion of primordial apoB lipoproteins and may represent its earliest function evolved for the mobilization of lipid in invertebrates. Identification of MTP inhibitors, which selectively affect transfer of a specific lipid class, may have therapeutic potential.

Targeted disruption of glycerol kinase gene in mice: expression analysis in liver shows alterations in network partners related to glycerol kinase activity

Glycerol kinase deficiency (GKD) is an X-linked inborn error of metabolism with metabolic and neurological crises. Liver shows the highest level of glycerol kinase (GK) activity in humans and mice. Absence of genotype-phenotype correlations in patients with GKD indicates the involvement of modifier genes, including other network partners. To understand the molecular pathogenesis of GKD, we performed microarray analysis on liver mRNA from neonatal glycerol kinase (Gyk) knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice. Unsupervised learning revealed that the overall gene expression profile of the KO mice was different from that of WT. Real-time PCR confirmed the differences for selected genes. Functional gene enrichment analysis was used to find 56 increased and 37 decreased gene functional categories. PathwayAssist analysis identified changes in gene expression levels of genes involved in organic acid metabolism indicating that GK was part of the same metabolic network which correlates well with the patients with GKD having metabolic acidemia during their episodic crises. Network component analysis (NCA) showed that transcription factors sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP)-1c, carbohydrate response element-binding protein (ChREBP), hepatocyte nuclear factor-4 alpha (HNF-4alpha) and peroxisome proliferative-activated receptor-alpha (PPARalpha) had increased activity in the Gyk KO mice compared with WT mice, whereas SREBP-2 was less active in the Gyk KO mice. These studies show that Gyk deletion causes alterations in expression of genes in several regulatory networks and is the first time NCA has been used to expand on microarray data from a mouse KO model of a human disease.

Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein lipidation and control of CD1d on antigen-presenting cells

Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP), an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) chaperone that loads lipids onto apolipoprotein B, also regulates CD1d presentation of glycolipid antigens in the liver and intestine. We show MTP RNA and protein in antigen-presenting cells (APCs) by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and by immunoblotting of mouse liver mononuclear cells and mouse and human B cell lines. Functional MTP, demonstrated by specific triglyceride transfer activity, is present in both mouse splenocytes and a CD1d-positive mouse NKT hybridoma. In a novel in vitro transfer assay, purified MTP directly transfers phospholipids, but not triglycerides, to recombinant CD1d. Chemical inhibition of MTP lipid transfer does not affect major histocompatibility complex class II presentation of ovalbumin, but considerably reduces CD1d-mediated presentation of α-galactosylceramide (α-galcer) and endogenous antigens in mouse splenic and bone marrow–derived dendritic cells (DCs), as well as in human APC lines and monocyte-derived DCs. Silencing MTP expression in the human monocyte line U937 affects CD1d function, as shown by diminished presentation of α-galcer. We propose that MTP acts upstream of the saposins and functions as an ER chaperone by loading endogenous lipids onto nascent CD1d. Furthermore, our studies suggest that a small molecule inhibitor could be used to modulate the activity of NKT cells.