A mutant of melanoma growth stimulating activity does not activate neutrophils but blocks erythrocyte invasion by malaria

Prospects for targeting ACKR1 in cancer and other diseases

The chemokine network is comprised of a family of signal proteins that encode messages for cells displaying chemokine G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs). The diversity of effects on cellular functions, particularly directed migration of different cell types to sites of inflammation, is enabled by different combinations of chemokines activating signal transduction cascades on cells displaying a combination of receptors. These signals can contribute to autoimmune disease or be hijacked in cancer to stimulate cancer progression and metastatic migration. Thus far, three chemokine receptor-targeting drugs have been approved for clinical use: Maraviroc for HIV, Plerixafor for hematopoietic stem cell mobilization, and Mogalizumab for cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Numerous compounds have been developed to inhibit specific chemokine GPCRs, but the complexity of the chemokine network has precluded more widespread clinical implementation, particularly as anti-neoplastic and anti-metastatic agents. Drugs that block a single signaling axis may be rendered ineffective or cause adverse reactions because each chemokine and receptor often have multiple context-specific functions. The chemokine network is tightly regulated at multiple levels, including by atypical chemokine receptors (ACKRs) that control chemokine gradients independently of G-proteins. ACKRs have numerous functions linked to chemokine immobilization, movement through and within cells, and recruitment of alternate effectors like β-arrestins. Atypical chemokine receptor 1 (ACKR1), previously known as the Duffy antigen receptor for chemokines (DARC), is a key regulator that binds chemokines involved in inflammatory responses and cancer proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Understanding more about ACKR1 in different diseases and populations may contribute to the development of therapeutic strategies targeting the chemokine network.

How do chemokines navigate neutrophils to the target site: Dissecting the structural mechanisms and signaling pathways

Chemokines play crucial roles in combating microbial infection and initiating tissue repair by recruiting neutrophils in a timely and coordinated manner. In humans, no less than seven chemokines (CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL3, CXCL5, CXCL6, CXCL7, and CXCL8) and two receptors (CXCR1 and CXCR2) mediate neutrophil functions but in a context dependent manner. Neutrophil-activating chemokines reversibly exist as monomers and dimers, and their receptor binding triggers conformational changes that are coupled to G-protein and β-arrestin signaling pathways. G-protein signaling activates a variety of effectors including Ca2+ channels and phospholipase C. β-arrestin serves as a multifunctional adaptor and is coupled to several signaling hubs including MAP kinase and tyrosine kinase pathways. Both G-protein and β-arrestin signaling pathways play important non-overlapping roles in neutrophil trafficking and activation. Functional studies have established many similarities but distinct differences for a given chemokine and between chemokines at the level of monomer vs. dimer, CXCR1 vs. CXCR2 activation, and G-protein vs. β-arrestin pathways. We propose that two forms of the ligand binding two receptors and activating two signaling pathways enables fine-tuned neutrophil function compared to a single form, a single receptor, or a single pathway. We summarize the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms by which chemokine monomers/dimers activate CXCR1/CXCR2 and how these interactions trigger G-protein/β-arrestin-coupled signaling pathways. We also discuss current challenges and knowledge gaps, and likely advances in the near future that will lead to a better understanding of the relationship between the chemokine-CXCR1/CXCR2-G-protein/β-arrestin axis and neutrophil function.

Structural Basis of Native CXCL7 Monomer Binding to CXCR2 Receptor N-Domain and Glycosaminoglycan Heparin

CXCL7, a chemokine highly expressed in platelets, orchestrates neutrophil recruitment during thrombosis and related pathophysiological processes by interacting with CXCR2 receptor and sulfated glycosaminoglycans (GAG). CXCL7 exists as monomers and dimers, and dimerization (~50 μM) and CXCR2 binding (~10 nM) constants indicate that CXCL7 is a potent agonist as a monomer. Currently, nothing is known regarding the structural basis by which receptor and GAG interactions mediate CXCL7 function. Using solution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, we characterized the binding of CXCL7 monomer to the CXCR2 N-terminal domain (CXCR2Nd) that constitutes a critical docking site and to GAG heparin. We found that CXCR2Nd binds a hydrophobic groove and that ionic interactions also play a role in mediating binding. Heparin binds a set of contiguous basic residues indicating a prominent role for ionic interactions. Modeling studies reveal that the binding interface is dynamic and that GAG adopts different binding geometries. Most importantly, several residues involved in GAG binding are also involved in receptor interactions, suggesting that GAG-bound monomer cannot activate the receptor. Further, this is the first study that describes the structural basis of receptor and GAG interactions of a native monomer of the neutrophil-activating chemokine family.

The role of the human Duffy antigen receptor for chemokines in malaria susceptibility: current opinions and future treatment prospects

The Duffy antigen receptor for chemokine (DARC) is a nonspecific receptor for several proinflammatory cytokines. It is homologous to the G-protein chemokine receptor superfamily, which is suggested to function as a scavenger in many inflammatory-and proinflammatory-related diseases. G-protein chemokine receptors are also known to play a critical role in infectious diseases; they are commonly used as entry vehicles by infectious agents. A typical example is the chemokine receptor CCR5 or CXCR4 used by HIV for infecting target cells. In malaria, DARC is considered an essential receptor that mediates the entry of the human and zoonotic malaria parasites Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium knowlesi into human reticulocytes and erythrocytes, respectively. This process is mediated through interaction with the parasite ligand known as the Duffy binding protein (DBP). Most therapeutic strategies have been focused on blocking the interaction between DBP and DARC by targeting the parasite ligand, while strategies targeting the receptor, DARC, have not been intensively investigated. The rapid increase in drug resistance and the lack of new effective drugs or a vaccine for malaria constitute a major threat and a need for novel therapeutics to combat disease. This review explores strategies that can be used to target the receptor. Inhibitors of DARC, which block DBP-DARC interaction, can potentially provide an effective strategy for preventing malaria caused by P. vivax.

The influence of host genetics on erythrocytes and malaria infection: is there therapeutic potential?

As parasites, Plasmodium species depend upon their host for survival. During the blood stage of their life-cycle parasites invade and reside within erythrocytes, commandeering host proteins and resources towards their own ends, and dramatically transforming the host cell. Parasites aptly avoid immune detection by minimizing the exposure of parasite proteins and removing themselves from circulation through cytoadherence. Erythrocytic disorders brought on by host genetic mutations can interfere with one or more of these processes, thereby providing a measure of protection against malaria to the host. This review summarizes recent findings regarding the mechanistic aspects of this protection, as mediated through the parasites interaction with abnormal erythrocytes. These novel findings include the reliance of the parasite on the host enzyme ferrochelatase, and the discovery of basigin and CD55 as obligate erythrocyte receptors for parasite invasion. The elucidation of these naturally occurring malaria resistance mechanisms is increasing the understanding of the host-parasite interaction, and as discussed below, is providing new insights into the development of therapies to prevent this disease.

CXCL1 inhibits airway smooth muscle cell migration through the decoy receptor Duffy antigen receptor for chemokines

Airway smooth muscle cell (ASMC) migration is an important mechanism postulated to play a role in airway remodeling in asthma. CXCL1 chemokine has been linked to tissue growth and metastasis. In this study, we present a detailed examination of the inhibitory effect of CXCL1 on human primary ASMC migration and the role of the decoy receptor, Duffy AgR for chemokines (DARC), in this inhibition. Western blots and pathway inhibitors showed that this phenomenon was mediated by activation of the ERK-1/2 MAPK pathway, but not p38 MAPK or PI3K, suggesting a biased selection in the signaling mechanism. Despite being known as a nonsignaling receptor, small interference RNA knockdown of DARC showed that ERK-1/2 MAPK activation was significantly dependent on DARC functionality, which, in turn, was dependent on the presence of heat shock protein 90 subunit α. Interestingly, DARC- or heat shock protein 90 subunit α-deficient ASMCs responded to CXCL1 stimulation by enhancing p38 MAPK activation and ASMC migration through the CXCR2 receptor. In conclusion, we demonstrated DARC's ability to facilitate CXCL1 inhibition of ASMC migration through modulation of the ERK-1/2 MAPK-signaling pathway.

Solution structure of CXCL5--a novel chemokine and adipokine implicated in inflammation and obesity

The chemokine CXCL5 is selectively expressed in highly specialized cells such as epithelial type II cells in the lung and white adipose tissue macrophages in muscle, where it mediates diverse functions from combating microbial infections by regulating neutrophil trafficking to promoting obesity by inhibiting insulin signaling. Currently very little is known regarding the structural basis of how CXCL5 mediates its novel functions. Towards this missing knowledge, we have solved the solution structure of the CXCL5 dimer by NMR spectroscopy. CXCL5 is a member of a subset of seven CXCR2-activating chemokines (CAC) that are characterized by the highly conserved ELR motif in the N-terminal tail. The structure shows that CXCL5 adopts the typical chemokine fold, but also reveals several distinct differences in the 30 s loop and N-terminal residues; not surprisingly, crosstalk between N-terminal and 30 s loop residues have been implicated as a major determinant of receptor activity. CAC function also involves binding to highly sulfated glycosaminoglycans (GAG), and the CXCL5 structure reveals a distinct distribution of positively charged residues, suggesting that differences in GAG interactions also influence function. The availability of the structure should now facilitate the design of experiments to better understand the molecular basis of various CXCL5 functions, and also serve as a template for the design of inhibitors for use in a clinical setting.

Chemokine CXCL1 dimer is a potent agonist for the CXCR2 receptor

The CXCL1/CXCR2 axis plays a crucial role in recruiting neutrophils in response to microbial infection and tissue injury, and dysfunction in this process has been implicated in various inflammatory diseases. Chemokines exist as monomers and dimers, and compelling evidence now exists that both forms regulate in vivo function. Therefore, knowledge of the receptor activities of both CXCL1 monomer and dimer is essential to describe the molecular mechanisms by which they orchestrate neutrophil function. The monomer-dimer equilibrium constant (~20 μm) and the CXCR2 binding constant (1 nm) indicate that WT CXCL1 is active as a monomer. To characterize dimer activity, we generated a trapped dimer by introducing a disulfide across the dimer interface. This disulfide-linked CXCL1 dimer binds CXCR2 with nanomolar affinity and shows potent agonist activity in various cellular assays. We also compared the receptor binding mechanism of this dimer with that of a CXCL1 monomer, generated by deleting the C-terminal residues that stabilize the dimer interface. We observe that the binding interactions of the dimer and monomer to the CXCR2 N-terminal domain, which plays an important role in determining affinity and activity, are essentially conserved. The potent activity of the CXCL1 dimer is novel: dimers of the CC chemokines CCL2 and CCL4 are inactive, and the dimer of the CXC chemokine CXCL8 (which is closely related to CXCL1) is marginally active for CXCR1 but shows variable activity for CXCR2. We conclude that large differences in dimer activity among different chemokine-receptor pairs have evolved for fine-tuned leukocyte function.

Influence of Gestational Age, Cesarean Section and Hematocrit on lnterleukin-8 Concentrations in Plasma and Detergent-Lysed Whole Blood of Noninfected Newborns

SUMMARY: BACKGROUND: Sensitivity of interleukin-8 (IL-8) in detecting early-onset bacterial infection (EOBI) is high. A high percentage is bound to nonspecific receptors on erythrocytes which can be determined via cell lysis. We have shown detergent-lysed whole blood (DLWB) IL-8 to be superior to plasma IL-8 in detecting EOBI. METHODS: To evaluate influence of pre- and perinatal factors on plasma and DLWB IL-8 concentrations, IL-8 was determined via ELISA (Immu-lite) in 146 noninfected newborns with risk factors for EOBI at two different time periods: 0-6 (group I) and 24-30 h (group II) after birth. The influence of gender, mode of delivery, gestational age and hematocrit was evaluated. RESULTS: While we found no influence of gender or gestational age, hematocrit was positively correlated with IL-8 plasma concentration (group I: r = 0.33, p < 0.001; group II: r = 0.30, p <0.01). IL-8 plasma concentrations after primary versus secondary cesarean section were lower (p < 0.05). Gestational age was correlated with DLWB IL-8 concentrations (group I: r = 0.46, p < 0.001; group II: r = 0.28, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Plasma IL-8 concentrations were positively correlated with hematocrit, whereas DLWB IL-8 concentrations increased with gestational age. This may be relevant to the interpretation of IL-8 in preterm infants and infants with anemia, polyglobulia or hematolytic diseases.

Duffy antigen inhibitors: useful therapeutics for malaria?

Plasmodium vivax accounts for 65% of all cases of malaria in Asia and South America. Although not usually deadly, this form of malaria continues to inflict misery on the millions of sufferers who have been infected. The paucity of treatments for malaria, coupled with the emerging resistance of the parasite to anti-malarial drugs such as chloroquine, demonstrates an urgent need to develop new and alternative approaches to combat this disease. In this perspective, we propose that the development of small molecule inhibitors of the Duffy antigen, the portal of infection of P. vivax, would be a novel and potentially effective approach for treating this form of malaria.

Targeting the Plasmodium vivax Duffy-binding protein

Plasmodium vivax requires interaction with the Duffy antigen receptor for chemokines (DARC) to enable its invasion of human erythrocytes. Interaction with DARC is mediated by the P. vivax Duffy-binding protein (PvDBP) and is essential for junction formation, which is a key step in the invasion process. The receptor-binding domain of PvDBP maps to a conserved cysteine-rich region, referred to as region II (PvRII). Here, we review data on the interaction of PvRII with DARC and explore the potential of targeting this crucial receptor-ligand interaction to develop new intervention strategies against P. vivax.

Opposing roles of murine duffy antigen receptor for chemokine and murine CXC chemokine receptor-2 receptors in murine melanoma tumor growth

The Duffy antigen receptor for chemokines (DARC) has been classified as a "silent" receptor, as it can bind CXC and CC chemokines to undergo ligand-induced receptor internalization, but is not coupled to trimeric G proteins required for the classic G protein-coupled receptor-mediated signaling. CXC chemokine receptor-2 (CXCR2) has been shown to play a major role in tumor angiogenesis. To test the hypothesis that these two chemokine receptors might play opposing roles in the growth of melanoma tumors, we developed a transgenic mouse model, where the preproendothelin promoter/enhancer (PPEP) is used to drive expression of either murine DARC (mDARC) or murine CXCR2 (mCXCR2) in endothelial cells. We show herein that the growth of melanoma tumor xenografts, established from s.c. injection of immortalized murine melanocytes overexpressing macrophage inflammatory protein-2, was inhibited or enhanced in the PPEP-mDARC and PPEP-mCXCR2 transgenic mice, respectively, compared with control mice. The early tumors formed in mDARC transgenic mice exhibited a significantly higher number of infiltrating leukocytes compared with either the control or mCXCR2 transgenic mice, suggesting a potential role for DARC expressed on endothelial cells in leukocyte migration. In addition, the tumor-associated angiogenesis in mDARC transgenic mice was reduced when compared with the control. Conversely, tumor angiogenesis was significantly increased in mCXCR2 transgenic mice. Results indicate that endothelial cell overexpression of mDARC increased leukocyte trafficking to the tumor, reduced the growth of blood vessels into the tumor, and reduced the growth rate of the tumor, whereas endothelial cell overexpression of mCXCR2 had the reverse effect on tumor angiogenesis and growth.

Structural basis of chemokine receptor function--a model for binding affinity and ligand selectivity

Chemokine receptors play fundamental roles in human physiology from embryogenesis to inflammatory response. The receptors belong to the G-protein coupled receptor class, and are activated by chemokine ligands with a range of specificities and affinities that result in a complicated network of interactions. The molecular basis for function is largely a black box, and can be directly attributed to the lack of structural information on the receptors. Studies to date indicate that function can be best described by a two-site model, that involves interactions between the receptor N-domain and ligand N-terminal loop residues (site-I), and between receptor extracellular loop and the ligand N-terminal residues (site-II). In this review, we describe how the two-site model could modulate binding affinity and ligand selectivity, and also highlight some of the unique chemokine receptor features, and their role in function.

Parasite ligand–host receptor interactions during invasion of erythrocytes by Plasmodium merozoites

Malaria parasites must recognise and invade different cells during their life cycle. The efficiency with which Plasmodium falciparum invades erythrocytes of all ages is an important virulence factor, since the ability of the parasite to reach high levels of parasitemia is often associated with severe pathology and morbidity. The merozoite invasion of erythrocytes is a highly complex, multi-step process that is dependent on a cascade of specific molecular interactions. Although many proteins are known to play an important role in invasion, their functional characteristics remain unclear. Therefore, a complete understanding of the molecular interactions that are the basis of the invasion process is absolutely crucial, not only in improving our knowledge about the basic biology of the malarial parasite, but also for the development of intervention strategies to counter the disease. Here we review the current state of knowledge about the receptor-ligand interactions that mediate merozoite invasion of erythrocytes.

Evaluation of IL-8-concentrations in plasma and lysed EDTA-blood in healthy neonates and those with suspected early onset bacterial infection

Plasma IL-8 is a diagnostic parameter of early-onset bacterial infection (EOBI) in neonates but has a short half-life. The detergent-lysed whole-blood (DLWB) IL-8 consists of both extracellular and cell-bound IL-8. The objective of this study was to investigate kinetics of plasma and DLWB IL-8 in healthy newborns and those with suspected EOBI and to test the hypothesis that determination of DLWB IL-8 results in higher sensitivity for EOBI detection. Sixty-one neonates with clinical and serologic signs of EOBI composed the study group; 188 neonates with risk factors but without EOBI served as control subjects. IL-8 concentrations were determined in plasma and DLWB. In the control group, DLWB IL-8 concentrations were 280-fold higher (9599 pg/mL; SD 4433) up to 24 h post partum than corresponding plasma levels (34.2 pg/mL; SD 18.1). The sensitivity of DLWB versus plasma IL-8 for EOBI was 0.97 versus 0.71 after 6 h and 0.70 versus 0.32 after 24 h. Corresponding values for specificity were 0.95 versus 0.90 after 6 h and 0.92 versus 0.99 after 24 h. After 24 h, the negative predictive value for DLWB versus plasma IL-8 was 0.80 versus 0.66. DLWB IL-8 showed a higher sensitivity for EOBI within 6 h after first clinical suspicion than plasma IL-8. It also remained elevated longer. Our results suggest that DLWB IL-8 results in a higher sensitivity for EOBI.

Ligand Selectivity and Affinity of Chemokine Receptor CXCR1

Glu-Leu-Arg ("ELR") CXC chemokines interleukin-8 (IL-8) and melanoma growth stimulatory activity (MGSA) recruit neutrophils by binding and activating two receptors, CXCR1 and CXCR2. CXCR1 is specific, binding only IL-8 with nanomolar affinity, whereas CXCR2 is promiscuous, binding all ELRCXC chemokines with high affinity. Receptor signaling consists of two events: interactions between the ligand N-terminal loop (N-loop) and receptor N-terminal domain (N-domain) residues (site I), and between the ligand N-terminal ELR and the receptor juxtamembrane domain (J-domain) residues (site II). It is not known how these interactions mediate ligand affinity and selectivity, and whether binding at one site influences binding and function at the other. Sequence analysis and structure-function studies have suggested that the receptor N-domain plays an important role in ligand selectivity. Here, we report ligand-binding properties and structural characteristics of the CXCR1 N-domain in solution and in detergent micelles that mimic the native membrane environment. We find that IL-8 binds the N-domain with significantly higher affinity in micelles than in solution (approximately 1 microM versus approximately 20 microM) and that MGSA does not bind the N-domain in solution but does in micelles with appreciable affinity (approximately 3 microM). We find that the N-domain is structured in micelles and that the entire N-domain interacts with the micelle in an extended fashion. We conclude that the micellar environment constrains the N-domain, and this conformational restraint influences its ligand-binding properties. Most importantly, our data suggest that for both ligands, site I interaction provides similar affinity and that differential coupling between site I and II interactions is responsible for the observed differences in affinity.

Cell surface heparan sulfate participates in CXCL1-induced signaling

The CXC subfamily of chemokines plays an important role in diverse processes, including inflammation, wound healing, growth regulation, angiogenesis, and tumorigenesis. The ELR-CXC chemokine, CXCL1 or MGSA/GROalpha, is traditionally considered to attract neutrophils to sites of inflammation. The non-ELR-CXC chemokine, CXCL10 or IP-10, is chemotactic for monocytes, B cells, and activated T lymphocytes. In addition to its role in leukocyte migration, CXCL10 inhibits the angiogenic functions of the ELR-CXC chemokines as well as bFGF and VEGF. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) are required for the interaction of bFGF and vEGF ligands and their receptors. However, the role of HSPGs in regulating the ELR-chemokines signaling and biological functions is poorly understood. We show here that the CXCL1 maximal binding to CXCR2 expressed on HEK293 and CHO-K1 cells is dependent on the presence of cell surface HSPGs. The cell surface HSPGs on cells are required for CXCL1-induced PAK1 activation. Moreover, CXCL10 can inhibit CXCL1-induced PAK1 and ERK activation as well as the CXCL1-induced chemotaxis through decreasing CXCL1 binding to cell surface heparan sulfate. These data indicate that HSPGs are involved in modulating CXCL1-induced PAK1 activation and chemotaxis through regulating CXCL1 binding activity to CXCR2 receptor. CXCL10 inhibits CXCL1-induced PAK1 activation and chemotaxis by interfering with appropriate binding of CXCL1 to CXCR2 receptor.

Enhanced expression of Duffy antigen in the lungs during suppurative pneumonia

Duffy antigen is a chemokine binding protein expressed on the surface of erythrocytes and postcapillary venular endothelial cells. It binds selective CXC and CC chemokines with high affinity. Although Duffy antigen is present in the normal pulmonary vascular bed, it is not known whether its expression is altered by innate inflammatory responses in the lungs. We studied Duffy antigen expression by immunohistochemistry in autopsy lung specimens from 16 cases of suppurative pneumonia, 11 cases of acute lung injury, and seven normal lungs. In lungs with suppurative pneumonia, Duffy antigen was expressed in higher numbers of pre- and postcapillary parenchymal vessels compared to normal specimens or specimens with acute lung injury (p<0.03 and p<0.02, respectively). Lungs with suppurative pneumonia also showed Duffy antigen expression on the alveolar septa, whereas this was a rare finding in normal specimens or in acute lung injury (p<0.02). Furthermore, Duffy antigen labeling of the alveolar septa localized to regions with airspace accumulation of neutrophil-rich exudates. In summary, Duffy antigen expression is increased in the vascular beds and alveolar septa of the lung parenchyma during suppurative pneumonia, suggesting that Duffy antigen may have a functional role in the lung parenchyma during inflammation.

Leukocyte extravasation: chemokine transport and presentation by the endothelium

At sites of inflammation and in normal immune surveillance, chemokines direct leukocyte migration across the endothelium. Many cell types that are extravascular can produce chemokines, and for these mediators to directly elicit leukocyte migration from the blood, they would need to reach the luminal surface of the endothelium. This article reviews the evidence that endothelial cells are active in transcytosing chemokines to their luminal surfaces, where they are presented to leukocytes. The endothelial binding sites that transport and present chemokines include glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and possibly the Duffy antigen/receptor for chemokines (DARC). The binding residues on chemokines that interact with GAGs are discussed, as are the carbohydrate structures on GAGs that bind these cytokines. The expression of particular GAG structures by endothelial cells may lend selectivity to the type of chemokine presented in a given tissue, thereby contributing to selective leukocyte recruitment. At the luminal surface of the endothelium, chemokines are preferentially presented to blood leukocytes on the tips of microvillous processes. Similarly, certain adhesion molecules and chemokine receptors are also preferentially distributed on leukocyte and endothelial microvilli, and evidence suggests an important role for these structures in creating the necessary surface topography for leukocyte migration. Finally, the mechanisms of chemokine transcytosis and presentation by endothelial cells are incorporated into the current model of chemokine-driven leukocyte extravasation.

Plasmodium yoelii uses the murine Duffy antigen receptor for chemokines as a receptor for normocyte invasion and an alternative receptor for reticulocyte invasion

Erythrocyte invasion by malaria parasites is a complex multistep process involving parasite and erythrocyte receptors. It is a critical stage in the parasite life cycle and, therefore, a logical step in which to intervene to prevent or ameliorate disease. Rodent models of malaria, commonly Plasmodium yoelii, are frequently used for studies of malaria pathogenesis. Little is known, however, about the invasion machinery of rodent malaria parasites. We have found previously that mice congenic for a region of chromosome 1, containing the Duffy antigen/receptor for chemokines (DARC), have different susceptibility to P yoelii infection. Because P vivax, a human parasite, and P knowlesi, a simian parasite, use DARC to enter human erythrocytes, we sought to identify the role of the murine DARC in P yoelii invasion. Using a novel in vivo invasion assay and DARC knock-out mice, we found that DARC knock-out normocytes (mature erythrocytes) had negligible levels of P yoelii invasion compared with wild-type normocytes, demonstrating that DARC is a receptor for invasion of murine erythrocytes. In contrast, DARC knock-out reticulocytes were invaded at a rate similar to that for wild-type reticulocytes. We conclude that there is a DARC- independent pathway for reticulocyte invasion. These findings represent the first identification of a murine malaria receptor on erythrocytes and the first determination that different pathways of invasion exist on normocytes and reticulocytes. Because we show conservation of host-receptor interactions between rodent and human malaria, we can now use this model to identify how immunity can interfere with the invasion process.

MGSA/GRO-mediated melanocyte transformation involves induction of Ras expression

The MGSA/GRO protein is endogenously expressed in almost 70% of the melanoma cell lines and tumors, but not in normal melanocytes. We have previously demonstrated that over-expression of human MGSA/GROalpha, beta or gamma in immortalized murine melanocytes (melan-a cells) enables these cells to form tumors in SCID and nude mice. To examine the possibility that the MGSA/GRO effect on melanocyte transformation requires expression of other genes, differential display was performed. One of the mRNA's identified in the screen as overexpressed in MGSA/GRO transformed melan-a clones was the newly described M-Ras or R-Ras3 gene, a member of the Ras gene superfamily. Over-expression of MGSA/GRO upregulates M-Ras expression at both the mRNA and protein levels, and this induction requires an intact glutamine-leucine-arginine (ELR)-motif in the MGSA/GRO protein. Western blot examination of Ras expression revealed that K- and N-Ras proteins are also elevated in MGSA/GRO-expressing melan-a clones, leading to an overall increase in the amount of activated Ras. MGSA/GRO-expressing melan-a clones exhibited enhanced AP-1 activity. The effects of MGSA/GRO on AP-1 activation could be mimicked by over-expression of wild-type M-Ras or a constitutively activated M-Ras mutant in control melan-a cells as monitored by an AP-1-luciferase reporter, while expression of a dominant negative M-Ras blocked AP-1-luciferase activity in MGSA/GRO-transformed melan-a clones. In the in vitro transformation assay, over-expression of M-Ras mimicked the effects of MGSA/GRO by inducing cellular transformation in control melan-a cells, while over-expression of dominant negative M-Ras in MGSA/GROalpha-expressing melan-a-6 cells blocked transformation. These data suggest that MGSA/GRO-mediated transformation requires Ras activation in melanocytes.

The tumorigenic and angiogenic effects of MGSA/GRO proteins in melanoma

Continuous expression of the MGSA/GROalpha, beta, or gamma chemokine bestows tumor-forming capacity to the immortalized murine melanocyte cell line, melan-a. The mechanism for this transformation is unclear, although both autocrine and paracrine processes are possible because melan-a cells as well as endothelial cells express a low level of the receptor for this ligand. To further define the role of MGSA/GRO proteins in melanocyte transformation, two types of experiments were designed to neutralize the biological effects of MGSA/GRO in the transfected melan-a clones: (1) the effect of neutralizing antiserum to MGSA/GRO proteins on melan-a tumor growth was assessed; (2) the tumor-forming capacity of melan-a clones expressing ELR motif-mutated forms of MGSA/GRO with compromised receptor affinity was compared to the tumor-forming capacity of clones expressing wild-type MGSA/GRO. These experiments revealed that SCID mice inoculated with MGSA/GROalpha- or gamma-expressing melan-a cells and subsequently treated with antiserum to the respective chemokine exhibited decreased tumor growth. This reduction in tumor growth was accompanied by declining angiogenic activity in MGSA/GROgamma-expressing tumors. Moreover, athymic nude mice injected with melan-a cells expressing ELR-mutant forms of MGSA/GROalpha exhibited markedly impaired tumor-forming capacity compared with those mice injected with melan-a clones expressing wild-type MGSA/GRO. These data suggest that continuous expression of MGSA/GRO proteins may facilitate tumor growth by stimulating the growth of microvessels into the tumor (paracrine) and by affecting melanocyte growth (autocrine).

Nuclear magnetic resonance solution structure of truncated human GRObeta [5-73] and its structural comparison with CXC chemokine family members GROalpha and IL-8

The three-dimensional structure of a novel four amino acid truncated form of the CXC chemokine GRObeta [5-73] isolated from bone marrow stromal cells with potent hematopoietic and anti-infective activities has been determined by two-dimensional (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy in solution. On the basis of 1878 upper distance constraints derived from nuclear Overhauser effects (NOE) and 314 dihedral angle constraints, a group of 20 conformers representing the solution structure of the human GRObeta [5-73] was computed with the program DYANA. At the concentrations used for NMR study, GRObeta [5-73] forms a dimer in solution that is architectured by a six-stranded antiparallel beta-sheet (residues 25 to 29, 39 to 44, 49 to 52) and a pair of helices (residues 58 to 68) with 2-fold symmetry, while the C terminus of the protein is disordered. The average of the pairwise root-mean-square deviations of individual NMR conformers relative to the mean coordinates for the backbone atoms N, C(alpha) and C' of residues 5 to 68 is 0.47 A. Overall, the global fold of GRObeta [5-73] is similar to that of the previously reported NMR structure of GROalpha and the NMR and X-ray structures of interleukin-8. Among these three CXC chemokines, GRObeta [5-73] is most similar in structure to GROalpha. Significant differences between GRObeta [5-73], GROalpha and interleukin-8 are in the N-terminal loop comprising residues 12 to 19. The N-terminal arm containing the conserved ELR motif and the loop of residues 30 to 38 containing the GPH motif are different among these three CXC chemokines. The structural differences in these two regions may be responsible for the specificity of the receptor binding and biological activity of different chemokines.

Key role of chemokines and chemokine receptors in inflammation, immunity, neoplasia, and infectious disease

Leukocyte homing is a complex, multistep process involving the coordinated expression of adhesion molecules and certain chemotactic cytokines, termed chemokines. Although chemokines initially burst into the literature as potent inflammatory mediators, it is now clear that they are involved in a variety of processes including lymphocyte maturation, angiogenesis, and tumor growth. Furthermore, a variety of important pathogens manipulate various chemokine/receptor pathways to infect the host and evade the immune system.

A His19 to Ala Mutant of Melanoma Growth-Stimulating Activity Is a Partial Antagonist of the CXCR2 Receptor

Melanoma growth stimulating activity (MGSA) and IL-8 are related chemokines that are potent chemoattractants and activators of neutrophils both in vitro and in vivo. Increasing evidence suggests that these molecules play an important role in inflammation; thus, antagonists of their action could be useful therapeutically as antiinflammatory agents. We have generated an MGSA mutant, H19A, that shows a dissociation between receptor binding and biologic activity. The biologic activity of the H19A mutant is between 133-fold and 282-fold less potent than that of wild-type MGSA measured by three independent assays of neutrophil function, i.e., elastase release chemotaxis and the up-regulation of CD18. In addition, pretreatment of cells with the H19A mutant inhibited the ability of MGSA to induce elastase release and chemotaxis and to increase intracellular calcium. However, competition binding studies in cells transfected with the CXCR2 receptor and in neutrophils demonstrate that the receptor affinity of the H19A mutant is only 13-fold less than that of wild-type MGSA. These studies suggest that the mutant MGSA is defective in activating signaling through the receptor and indicate that binding to the receptor is not sufficient to activate a biologic response. The dissociation between receptor binding and activation for this mutant suggests that it should be possible to design antagonists of MGSA that may be of clinical utility.

Noncompetitive, chemokine-mediated inhibition of basic fibroblast growth factor-induced endothelial cell proliferation

The proinflammatory and chemoattractant chemokine interleukin-8 (IL-8) inhibits cell proliferation induced by basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in mouse endothelial cells isolated from subcutaneous sponge implant (sponge-induced mouse endothelial cells) and in bovine aortic endothelial GM 7373 cells. The mechanism of action of IL-8 was investigated in GM 7373 cells. IL-8 did not prevent the binding of bFGF to its tyrosine kinase FGF receptors (FGFRs) nor to cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs). A transient interaction of IL-8 with the cell before the addition of the growth factor was sufficient to prevent bFGF activity. The inhibitory activity of IL-8 was abolished by protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitors and was mimicked by the PKC activator 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate. Accordingly, both IL-8 and 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate caused a approximately 60% decrease of the binding capacity of GM 7373 cells due to the down-regulation of FGFRs. Several C-X-C and C-C chemokines exerted an inhibitory action on bFGF activity similar to IL-8. Soluble heparin, 6-O-desulfated heparin, N-desulfated heparin, and heparan sulfate but not 2-O-desulfated heparin, chondroitin-4-sulfate, hyaluronic acid, and K5 polysaccharide abrogated IL-8 inhibitory activity consistently with the presence of low affinity, high capacity HSPG-like chemokine-binding sites on GM 7373 cells. Finally, neovascularization induced by bFGF in murine subcutaneous sponge implants was reduced significantly by IL-8. In conclusion, IL-8 inhibits the mitogenic activity exerted by bFGF on cultured endothelial cells by a PKC-dependent, noncompetitive mechanism of action that causes FGFR down-regulation. This activity is shared by several chemokines and requires endothelial cell surface HSPGs. The endothelial cell line utilized in the present study may help to elucidate the complex interplay among chemokines, HSPGs, growth factors, and receptors in endothelial cells.

Functional and receptor binding characterization of recombinant murine macrophage inflammatory protein 2: sequence analysis and mutagenesis identify receptor binding epitopes

Murine macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2), a member of the alpha-chemokine family, is one of several proteins secreted by cells in response to lipopolysaccharide. Many of the alpha-chemokines, such as interleukin-8, gro-alpha/MGSA, and neutrophil activating peptide-2 (NAP-2), are associated with neutrophil activation and chemotaxis. We describe the expression, purification, and characterization of murine MIP-2 from Pichia pastoris. Circular dichroism spectroscopy reveals that MIP-2 exhibits a highly ordered secondary structure consistent with the alpha/beta structures of other chemokines. Recombinant MIP-2 is chemotactic for human and murine neutrophils and up-regulates cell surface expression of Mac-1. MIP-2 binds to human and murine neutrophils with dissociation constants of 6.4 nM and 2.9 nM, respectively. We further characterize the binding of MIP-2 to the human types A and B IL-8 receptors and the murine homologue of the IL-8 receptor. MIP-2 displays low-affinity binding to the type A IL-8 receptor (Kd > 120 nM) and high-affinity binding to the type B IL-8 receptor (Kd 5.7 nM) and the murine receptor (Kd 6.8 nM). The three-dimensional structure of IL-8 and sequence analysis of six chemokines (IL-8, gro-alpha, NAP-2, ENA-78, KC, and MIP-2) that display high-affinity binding to the IL-8 type B receptor are used to identify an extended N-terminal surface that interacts with this receptor. Two mutants of MIP-2 establish that this region is also involved in binding and activating the murine homologue of the IL-8 receptor. Differences in the sequence between IL-8 and related chemokines identify a unique hydrophobic/aromatic region surrounded by charged residues that is likely to impart specificity to IL-8 for binding to the type A receptor.

IL-8 single-chain homodimers and heterodimers: interactions with chemokine receptors CXCR1, CXCR2, and DARC

Covalent single-chain dimers of the chemokine interleukin-8 (IL-8) have been designed to mimic the dimeric form of IL-8 in solution and facilitate the production of heterodimer variants of IL-8. Physical studies indicated that use of a simple peptide linker to join two subunits, while allowing receptor binding and activation, led to self-association of the tethered dimers. However, addition of a single disulfide crosslink between the tethered subunits prevented this multimer from forming, yielding a species of dimer molecular weight. Crosslinked single-chain dimers bind to both IL-8 neutrophil receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2 as well as to DARC, as does a double disulfide-linked dimer with no peptide linker. In addition, neutrophil response to these dimers as measured by chemotaxis or beta-glucuronidase release is similar to that elicited by wild-type IL-8, providing evidence that the dissociation of the dimeric species is not required for these biologically relevant activities. Finally, through construction of single-chain heterodimer mutants, we show that only the first subunit's ELR motif is the single-chain variants.

Monomeric variants of IL-8: effects of side chain substitutions and solution conditions upon dimer formation

IL-8 dimers have been observed in NMR and X-ray structures of the protein. We have engineered IL-8 monomers by mutations of residues throughout the dimer interface, which introduce hindrance determinants to dimerization. These IL-8 variants are shown by NMR to have wild-type monomer folding, but by ultracentrifugation to have a range of dimerization constants from microM to mM, as compared with a dimerization constant of about 10 microM for wild-type IL-8, under physiological salt and temperature conditions. The monomeric variants of IL-8 bind the erythrocyte chemokine receptor DARC, as well as the neutrophil IL-8 receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2 with affinities similar to that of wild-type IL-8. In addition, the monomeric variants were shown to have agonist activity, with similar potency to wild-type, in both Ca(2+)-flux assays on CXCR1 and CXCR2 transfected cells, and in chemotaxis assays on neutrophils. Thus, these variants confirm that monomeric IL-8 is functionally equivalent to wild-type in vitro assays. We have also investigated the effects of various solution conditions upon IL-8 dimer formation using analytical ultracentrifugation. At salt concentrations, temperatures, and pH conditions lower than physiological, the dimerization affinity of IL-8 is greatly enhanced. This suggests that, under some conditions, IL-8 dimer formation may occur at concentrations of IL-8 considerably lower than 10 microM, with consequences in vivo that are yet to be determined.

Neutrophil-activating peptide-2 and melanoma growth-stimulatory activity are functional as monomers for neutrophil activation

Neutrophil-activating peptide-2 (NAP-2) and melanoma growth-stimulatory activity (MGSA) are members of the chemokine family of inflammatory proteins. The structures of NAP-2, determined by x-ray crystallography, and MGSA, elucidated by NMR spectroscopy, revealed a tetramer and dimer, respectively. In order to address the relevance of multimeric species to their activities on neutrophils, analogs of NAP-2 and MGSA were synthesized in which the backbone amide proton of Leu-22 in NAP-2, and Val-26 in MGSA, was substituted with the bulky methyl group (NH --> NCH3). These analogs were shown to be monomeric by sedimentation equilibrium ultracentrifugation studies and were similar to the corresponding native protein in assays for neutrophil elastase release and Ca2+ mobilization from IL-8R1 and IL-8R2 transformed cells. Sedimentation equilibrium studies of the native NAP-2 and MGSA were also carried out to address the association behavior. For NAP-2, there was no evidence for the tetramer, but an equilibrium between monomers and dimers and the dissociation constant was calculated to be 50-100 microM. Similarly, MGSA showed a monomer-dimer equilibrium with a Kd of approximately 5 microM. The data from the monomeric analogs and also the calculation of dissociation constants indicate that NAP-2 and MGSA have a tendency to associate above the concentrations required for maximal activity or for receptor activation, but at functional concentrations they are predominantly monomers.

1H NMR evidence that Glu-38 interacts with the N-terminal functional domain in interleukin-8

In order to assess the importance of the buried Glu-38 observed in the structure of interleukin-8, an analog in which Glu-38 was replaced with Ala (E38A analog) was investigated by 1H NMR spectroscopy and neutrophil activation. Detailed analysis of the NMR NOESY data showed that the solution structure of the E38A analog is essentially the same as that for the native protein. Also, the neutrophil elastase activity of the E38A analog was similar to that of the native protein. However, the Gln-8 and Cys-9 amide proton chemical shifts, which are significantly downfield-shifted in the native protein, exhibit more 'normal' values. This observation indicates that in the native protein, Glu-38 side-chain carboxylate interacts with Gln-8 and Cys-9 amide protons. Although the N-terminal residues are critical for function, this interaction is not essential for neutrophil activation.

Induction of RANTES expression by astrocytes and astrocytoma cell lines

The cellular infiltrate found during the acute phase of multiple sclerosis (MS) consists of monocytes and activated T cells, suggesting the presence of cell-specific chemotactic signals during the inflammatory response. We examined the ability of human astrocytoma cell lines, as well as primary human and rat astrocytes, to generate a specific member of the intercrine/chemokine family of cytokines, RANTES, when exposed to TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta and IFN-gamma. Astrocytoma cells as well as primary astrocytes produced RANTES upon incubation with TNF-alpha or IL-1 beta. IFN-gamma alone did not induce RANTES production by astrocytes, but it potentiated the effects of either TNF-alpha or IL-1 beta. Induction of RANTES by TNF-alpha was mediated by the p55 receptor since a specific anti-p55 antiserum mimicked the effect of TNF-alpha. These results indicate that human astrocytes are capable of generating a cell-specific chemokine that can account for the inflammatory cellular infiltrate observed during the acute phase of MS, in a process that is regulated by cytokines.

Exchanging interleukin-8 and melanoma growth-stimulating activity receptor binding specificities

Interleukin-8 (IL-8), a CXC chemokine, is known to bring about chemotaxis and activation of neutrophils through high affinity binding to at least two distinct receptors, receptor-A and receptor-B. The IL-8 homolog melanoma growth stimulating activity (MGSA) is also active toward neutrophils. In contrast to IL-8, MGSA binds receptor-B with high affinity and binds receptor-A with approximately 400-fold lower affinity. Using the structure of IL-8 (Clore et al.(1990) Biochemistry, 29, 1689-1696; Baldwin et al. (1991) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 88, 502-506) and the NMR-determined structure of MGSA (Fairbrother et al. (1994) J. Mol. Biol. 242, 252-270), we designed variants of both IL-8 and MGSA to investigate the basis of specificity for binding of these chemokines to the IL-8 receptors. The most outstanding structural difference between IL-8 and MGSA lies in the loop preceding the first beta-strand. When the corresponding (shorter) loop from MGSA was swapped into IL-8, both receptor-A and receptor-B binding affinities were significantly (>300-fold) reduced. However, with additional mutations that affect packing interactions, an IL-8 variant specific for receptor-B binding was produced. Conversely, when the same loop from IL-8 was swapped into MGSA, receptor-B binding was maintained with only a approximately 30-fold reduction in receptor-A affinity. Again, mutations affecting packing of the loop yielded a MGSA variant with high affinity for both receptors, like IL-8. Finally, we show, through point mutations in a monomeric IL-8 framework, that individual side chain substitutions can affect receptor specificity.

Chemokines: progress toward identifying molecular targets for therapeutic agents

Leukocyte migration towards injury sites is directed by the interaction of chemokines with their receptors. The stages of migration are closely regulated events that involve chemokine-induced leukocyte adhesion, diapedesis and homing. Current research suggests a pathophysiological role for chemokines in diverse inflammatory states arising from viral, bacterial and parasitic infection, allergic and asthmatic reactions, atherosclerosis and arthritis. A role for chemokines in tumor immunity and angiogenesis has recently been demonstrated. A basis for the rational design of chemokine antagonists is emerging from a knowledge of tertiary structures and mutational analysis of chemokine ligands and receptors. Here, we discuss advances in knowledge about chemokine structure and function, with emphasis on potential therapeutic agents.

The promiscuous chemokine binding profile of the Duffy antigen/receptor for chemokines is primarily localized to sequences in the amino-terminal domain

The Duffy antigen (DARC) is a promiscuous chemokine receptor that also binds Plasmodium vivax. DARC belongs to a family of heptahelical chemokine receptors that includes specific (IL-8RA) and shared (IL-8RB) IL-8 receptors. Ligand binding specificity of IL-8 receptors was localized to the amino-terminal extracellular (E1) domain. To determine the basis for promiscuous chemokine binding by DARC, a chimeric receptor composed of the E1 domain of DARC and hydrophobic helices and loops from IL-8RB (DARCe1/IL-8RB) was constructed. Scatchard analysis of stable transfectants demonstrated that the DARCe1/IL-8RB chimeric receptor bound IL-8 and melanoma growth stimulating activity (MGSA) with KD values almost identical to the native receptors. The hybrid receptor also bound RANTES, MCP-1, and MGSA-E6A (which binds DARC, but not IL-8RB), but not MIP-1 alpha, similarly to DARC. Ligand binding to DARC transfectants was unaltered by anti-Fy3, but inhibited by Fy6, which binds an epitope in the E1 domain. The epitope recognized by Fy3 was localized to the third extracellular loop by analysis of insect cells expressing chimeric receptors composed of complementary portions of DARC and IL-8RB. These findings implicate the E1 domain of DARC in multispecific chemokine binding.