Primary structure and functional expression of a cDNA encoding the bile canalicular, purine-specific Na(+)-nucleoside cotransporter

The Role of Solute Carrier Transporters in Efficient Anticancer Drug Delivery and Therapy

Transporter-mediated drug resistance is a major obstacle in anticancer drug delivery and a key reason for cancer drug therapy failure. Membrane solute carrier (SLC) transporters play a crucial role in the cellular uptake of drugs. The expression and function of the SLC transporters can be down-regulated in cancer cells, which limits the uptake of drugs into the tumor cells, resulting in the inefficiency of the drug therapy. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of low-SLC-transporter-expression-mediated drug resistance in different types of cancers. Recent advances in SLC-transporter-targeting strategies include the development of transporter-utilizing prodrugs and nanocarriers and the modulation of SLC transporter expression in cancer cells. These strategies will play an important role in the future development of anticancer drug therapies by enabling the efficient delivery of drugs into cancer cells.

Solute Carrier Nucleoside Transporters in Hematopoiesis and Hematological Drug Toxicities: A Perspective

Simple Summary

Anticancer nucleoside analogs are promising treatments that often result in damaging toxicities and therefore ineffective treatment. Mechanisms of this are not well-researched, but cellular nucleoside transport research in mice might provide additional insight given transport’s role in mammalian hematopoiesis. Cellular nucleoside transport is a notable component of mammalian hematopoiesis due to how mutations within it relate to hematological abnormities. This review encompasses nucleoside transporters, focusing on their inherent properties, hematopoietic role, and their interplay in nucleoside drug treatment side effects. We then propose potential mechanisms to explain nucleoside transport involvement in blood disorders. Finally, we point out and advocate for future research areas that would improve therapeutic outcomes for patients taking nucleoside analog therapies.

Abstract

Anticancer nucleoside analogs produce adverse, and at times, dose-limiting hematological toxicities that can compromise treatment efficacy, yet the mechanisms of such toxicities are poorly understood. Recently, cellular nucleoside transport has been implicated in normal blood cell formation with studies from nucleoside transporter-deficient mice providing additional insights into the regulation of mammalian hematopoiesis. Furthermore, several idiopathic human genetic disorders have revealed nucleoside transport as an important component of mammalian hematopoiesis because mutations in individual nucleoside transporter genes are linked to various hematological abnormalities, including anemia. Here, we review recent developments in nucleoside transporters, including their transport characteristics, their role in the regulation of hematopoiesis, and their potential involvement in the occurrence of adverse hematological side effects due to nucleoside drug treatment. Furthermore, we discuss the putative mechanisms by which aberrant nucleoside transport may contribute to hematological abnormalities and identify the knowledge gaps where future research may positively impact treatment outcomes for patients undergoing various nucleoside analog therapies.

Structure and Function of Hepatobiliary ATP Binding Cassette Transporters

The liver is beyond any doubt the most important metabolic organ of the human body. This function requires an intensive crosstalk within liver cellular structures, but also with other organs. Membrane transport proteins are therefore of upmost importance as they represent the sensors and mediators that shuttle signals from outside to the inside of liver cells and/or vice versa. In this review, we summarize the known literature of liver transport proteins with a clear emphasis on functional and structural information on ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporters, which are expressed in the human liver. These primary active membrane transporters form one of the largest families of membrane proteins. In the liver, they play an essential role in for example bile formation or xenobiotic export. Our review provides a state of the art and comprehensive summary of the current knowledge of hepatobiliary ABC transporters. Clearly, our knowledge has improved with a breath-taking speed over the last few years and will expand further. Thus, this review will provide the status quo and will lay the foundation for new and exciting avenues in liver membrane transporter research.

Altered Transcription Factor Binding and Gene Bivalency in Islets of Intrauterine Growth Retarded Rats

Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), which induces epigenetic modifications and permanent changes in gene expression, has been associated with the development of type 2 diabetes. Using a rat model of IUGR, we performed ChIP-Seq to identify and map genome-wide histone modifications and gene dysregulation in islets from 2- and 10-week rats. IUGR induced significant changes in the enrichment of H3K4me3, H3K27me3, and H3K27Ac marks in both 2-wk and 10-wk islets, which were correlated with expression changes of multiple genes critical for islet function in IUGR islets. ChIP-Seq analysis showed that IUGR-induced histone mark changes were enriched at critical transcription factor binding motifs, such as C/EBPs, Ets1, Bcl6, Thrb, Ebf1, Sox9, and Mitf. These transcription factors were also identified as top upstream regulators in our previously published transcriptome study. In addition, our ChIP-seq data revealed more than 1000 potential bivalent genes as identified by enrichment of both H3K4me3 and H3K27me3. The poised state of many potential bivalent genes was altered by IUGR, particularly Acod1, Fgf21, Serpina11, Cdh16, Lrrc27, and Lrrc66, key islet genes. Collectively, our findings suggest alterations of histone modification in key transcription factors and genes that may contribute to long-term gene dysregulation and an abnormal islet phenotype in IUGR rats.

HPLC reveals novel features of nucleoside and nucleobase homeostasis, nucleoside metabolism and nucleoside transport

Humans possess three members of the cation-coupled concentrative nucleoside transporter CNT (SLC 28) family, hCNT1-3: hCNT1 is selective for pyrimidine nucleosides but also transports adenosine, hCNT2 transports purine nucleosides and uridine, and hCNT3 transports both pyrimidine and purine nucleosides. hCNT1/2 transport nucleosides using the transmembrane Na⁺ electrochemical gradient, while hCNT3 is both Na⁺- and H⁺-coupled. By producing recombinant hCNT3 in Xenopus laevis oocytes, we have used radiochemical high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis to investigate the metabolic fate of transported [³H] or [¹⁴C] pyrimidine and purine nucleosides once inside cells. With the exception of adenosine, transported nucleosides were generally subject to minimal intracellular metabolism. We also used radiochemical HPLC analysis to study the mechanism by which adenosine functions as a low K_m, low V_max permeant of hCNT1. hCNT1-producing oocytes were pre-loaded with [³H] uridine, after which efflux of accumulated radioactivity was measured in transport medium alone, or in the presence of extracellular non-radiolabelled adenosine or uridine. hCNT1-mediated [³H]-efflux was stimulated by extracellular uridine, but inhibited by extracellular adenosine, with >95% of the radioactivity exiting cells being unmetabolized uridine, consistent with a low transmembrane mobility of the hCNT1/adenosine complex. Humans also possess four members of the equilibrative nucleoside transporter ENT (SLC 29) family, hENT1-4. Of these, hENT1 and hENT2 transport both nucleosides and nucleobases into and out of cells, but their relative contributions to nucleoside and nucleobase homeostasis and, in particular, to adenosine signaling via purinoreceptors, are not known. We therefore used HPLC to determine plasma nucleoside and nucleobase concentrations in wild-type, mENT1-, mENT2- and mENT1/mENT2-knockout (KO) mice, and to compare the findings with knockout of mCNT3. Results demonstrated that ENT1 was more important than ENT2 or CNT3 in determining plasma adenosine concentrations, indicated modest roles of ENT1 in the homeostasis of other nucleosides, and suggested that none of the transporters is a major participant in handling of nucleobases.

The effect of genetic variations on ribavirin pharmacokinetics and treatment response in HCV-4 Egyptian patients receiving sofosbuvir/daclatasvir and ribavirin

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the effect of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of genes involved in ribavirin (RBV) transport (SLC28A2 gene, ABCB1 gene and ABCB11 gene) on the clinical outcome and pharmacokinetics of ribavirin in HCV- 4 Egyptian patients.

METHOD

100 patients treated with sofosbuvir/daclatasvir and ribavirin for 12 weeks. The SNP genotyping was performed by real-time PCR using high resolution melting analysis. Ribavirin plasma trough concentrations were determined at week 4 of therapy using a liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). For clinical outcomes, sustained virological response (SVR), liver function tests (ALT and AST), total bilirubin, albumin, serum creatinine, hemoglobin, leukocyte count, and platelet count were measured.

RESULTS

Concerning RBV pharmacokinetics, ABCB1 2677 G > T SNP and ABCB11 1331 T > C SNP were statistically associated with RBV C_trough levels after 4 weeks of therapy. ABCB11 1331 T > C SNP revealed significant association with clinical outcomes (SVR). SLC28A2-146 A > T SNP has not showed any statistically significant association with RBV plasma levels or response.

CONCLUSION

SNP genotyping for ABCB1 and ABCB11 genes can help in better personalized medicine for maximizing response for ribavirin as explored by the significant association between polymorphism in ABCB1 and ABCB11 genes and ribavirin pharmacokinetics and the significant association of ABCB11 1331 T > C SNP with clinical response.

Who Is Who in Adenosine Transport

Extracellular adenosine concentrations are regulated by a panel of membrane transporters which, in most cases, mediate its uptake into cells. Adenosine transporters belong to two gene families encoding Equilibrative and Concentrative Nucleoside Transporter proteins (ENTs and CNTs, respectively). The lack of appropriate pharmacological tools targeting every transporter subtype has introduced some bias on the current knowledge of the role of these transporters in modulating adenosine levels. In this regard, ENT1, for which pharmacology is relatively well-developed, has often been identified as a major player in purinergic signaling. Nevertheless, other transporters such as CNT2 and CNT3 can also contribute to purinergic modulation based on their high affinity for adenosine and concentrative capacity. Moreover, both transporter proteins have also been shown to be under purinergic regulation via P1 receptors in different cell types, which further supports its relevance in purinergic signaling. Thus, several transporter proteins regulate extracellular adenosine levels. Moreover, CNT and ENT proteins are differentially expressed in tissues but also in particular cell types. Accordingly, transporter-mediated fine tuning of adenosine levels is cell and tissue specific. Future developments focusing on CNT pharmacology are needed to unveil transporter subtype-specific events.

Substituted cysteine accessibility method (SCAM) analysis of the transport domain of human concentrative nucleoside transporter 3 (hCNT3) and other family members reveals features of structural and functional importance

The human SLC28 family of concentrative nucleoside transporter (CNT) proteins has three members: hCNT1, hCNT2, and hCNT3. Na⁺-coupled hCNT1 and hCNT2 transport pyrimidine and purine nucleosides, respectively, whereas hCNT3 transports both pyrimidine and purine nucleosides utilizing Na⁺ and/or H⁺ electrochemical gradients. Escherichia coli CNT family member NupC resembles hCNT1 in permeant selectivity but is H⁺-coupled. Using heterologous expression in Xenopus oocytes and the engineered cysteine-less hCNT3 protein hCNT3(C-), substituted cysteine accessibility method analysis with the membrane-impermeant thiol reactive reagent p-chloromercuribenzene sulfonate was performed on the transport domain (interfacial helix 2, hairpin 1, putative transmembrane domain (TM) 7, and TM8), as well as TM9 of the scaffold domain of the protein. This systematic scan of the entire C-terminal half of hCNT3(C-) together with parallel studies of the transport domain of wild-type hCNT1 and the corresponding TMs of cysteine-less NupC(C-) yielded results that validate the newly developed structural homology model of CNT membrane architecture for human CNTs, revealed extended conformationally mobile regions within transport-domain TMs, identified pore-lining residues of functional importance, and provided evidence of an emerging novel elevator-type mechanism of transporter function.

Identification of 8-aminoadenosine derivatives as a new class of human concentrative nucleoside transporter 2 inhibitors

Purine-rich foods have long been suspected as a major cause of hyperuricemia. We hypothesized that inhibition of human concentrative nucleoside transporter 2 (hCNT2) would suppress increases in serum urate levels derived from dietary purines. To test this hypothesis, the development of potent hCNT2 inhibitors was required. By modifying adenosine, an hCNT2 substrate, we successfully identified 8-aminoadenosine derivatives as a new class of hCNT2 inhibitors. Compound 12 moderately inhibited hCNT2 (IC50 = 52 ± 3.8 μM), and subsequent structure-activity relationship studies led to the discovery of compound 48 (IC50 = 0.64 ± 0.19 μM). Here we describe significant findings about structural requirements of 8-aminoadenosine derivatives for exhibiting potent hCNT2 inhibitory activity.

Role of pharmacogenetic in ribavirin outcome prediction and pharmacokinetics in an Italian cohort of HCV-1 and 4 patients

Ribavirin is phosphorylated by adenosine kinase 1 (AK1) and cytosolic 5'-nucleotidase 2 and it is transported into cells by concentrative nucleoside transporters (CNT) 2/3, coded by SLC28A2/3 genes, and equilibrative nucleoside transporters (ENT) 1/2, coded by SLC29A1/2 genes. We evaluated the association of some polymorphisms of IL28B, SLC28A2/3, SLC29A1, ABCB1, NT5C2, AK1, HNF4α genes and ribavirin treatment outcome and pharmacokinetics after 4weeks of therapy, in a cohort of HCV-1/4 Italian patients. Allelic discrimination was performed by real-time PCR; plasma concentrations were determined at the end of dosing interval (Ctrough) using an HPLC-UV method. Non response was negatively predicted by cryoglobulinemia and IL28B_rs12980275 AA genotype and positively by Metavir score; Metavir score, insulin resistance and SLC28A2_rs1060896 CA/AA and HNF4α_rs1884613 CC genotypes were negative predictive factors of SVR, whereas HCV viral load at baseline and IL28B_rs12980275 AA and rs8099917 TT genotypes positively predicted this outcome; RVR was negatively predicted by insulin resistance and positively by cryoglobulinemia and IL28B_rs12980275 AA genotype; Metavir score and insulin resistance were able to negatively predict EVR, whereas cryoglobulinemia and IL28B_rs12980275 AA genotype positively predicted it; at last, virological relapse was negatively predicted by IL28B_rs8099917 TT and AK1_rs1109374 TT genotypes, insulin resistance was a positive predictor factor. Concerning ribavirin pharmacokinetics, SLC28A2_rs11854488 TT was related to lower Ctrough levels; conversely patients with TC profile of SLC28A3_rs10868138 and SLC29A1_rs760370 GG genotype had higher ribavirin levels. These results might contribute to the clarification of mechanisms causing the individuality in the response to ribavirin containing therapy.

Nucleoside transporters: biological insights and therapeutic applications

Nucleoside transporters play important physiological roles by regulating intra- and extra-cellular concentrations of purine and pyrimidine (deoxy)nucleosides. This review describes the biological function and activity of the two major families of membrane nucleoside transporters that exist in mammalian cells. These include equilibrative nucleoside transporters that transport nucleosides in a gradient-dependent fashion and concentrative nucleoside transporters that import nucleosides against a gradient by coupling movement with sodium transport. Particular emphasis is placed on describing the roles of nucleoside transport in normal physiological processes, including inflammation, cardiovascular function and nutrient transport across the blood–brain barrier. In addition, the role of nucleoside transport in pathological conditions such as cardiovascular disease and cancer are discussed. The potential therapeutic applications of manipulating nucleoside transport activities are discussed, focusing on nucleoside analogs as anti-neoplastic agents. Finally, we discuss future directions for the development of novel chemical entities to measure nucleoside transport activity at the cellular and organismal level.

Xenobiotic, bile acid, and cholesterol transporters: function and regulation

Transporters influence the disposition of chemicals within the body by participating in absorption, distribution, and elimination. Transporters of the solute carrier family (SLC) comprise a variety of proteins, including organic cation transporters (OCT) 1 to 3, organic cation/carnitine transporters (OCTN) 1 to 3, organic anion transporters (OAT) 1 to 7, various organic anion transporting polypeptide isoforms, sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide, apical sodium-dependent bile acid transporter, peptide transporters (PEPT) 1 and 2, concentrative nucleoside transporters (CNT) 1 to 3, equilibrative nucleoside transporter (ENT) 1 to 3, and multidrug and toxin extrusion transporters (MATE) 1 and 2, which mediate the uptake (except MATEs) of organic anions and cations as well as peptides and nucleosides. Efflux transporters of the ATP-binding cassette superfamily, such as ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1), multidrug resistance proteins (MDR) 1 and 2, bile salt export pump, multidrug resistance-associated proteins (MRP) 1 to 9, breast cancer resistance protein, and ATP-binding cassette subfamily G members 5 and 8, are responsible for the unidirectional export of endogenous and exogenous substances. Other efflux transporters [ATPase copper-transporting beta polypeptide (ATP7B) and ATPase class I type 8B member 1 (ATP8B1) as well as organic solute transporters (OST) alpha and beta] also play major roles in the transport of some endogenous chemicals across biological membranes. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of these transporters (both rodent and human) with regard to tissue distribution, subcellular localization, and substrate preferences. Because uptake and efflux transporters are expressed in multiple cell types, the roles of transporters in a variety of tissues, including the liver, kidneys, intestine, brain, heart, placenta, mammary glands, immune cells, and testes are discussed. Attention is also placed upon a variety of regulatory factors that influence transporter expression and function, including transcriptional activation and post-translational modifications as well as subcellular trafficking. Sex differences, ontogeny, and pharmacological and toxicological regulation of transporters are also addressed. Transporters are important transmembrane proteins that mediate the cellular entry and exit of a wide range of substrates throughout the body and thereby play important roles in human physiology, pharmacology, pathology, and toxicology.

Adenosine: An immune modulator of inflammatory bowel diseases

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a common and lifelong disabling gastrointestinal disease. Emerging treatments are being developed to target inflammatory cytokines which initiate and perpetuate the immune response. Adenosine is an important modulator of inflammation and its anti-inflammatory effects have been well established in humans as well as in animal models. High extracellular adenosine suppresses and resolves chronic inflammation in IBD models. High extracellular adenosine levels could be achieved by enhanced adenosine absorption and increased de novo synthesis. Increased adenosine concentration leads to activation of the A2a receptor on the cell surface of immune and epithelial cells that would be a potential therapeutic target for chronic intestinal inflammation. Adenosine is transported via concentrative nucleoside transporter and equilibrative nucleoside transporter transporters that are localized in apical and basolateral membranes of intestinal epithelial cells, respectively. Increased extracellular adenosine levels activate the A2a receptor, which would reduce cytokines responsible for chronic inflammation.

Characterization of nucleobase transport by mouse Sertoli cell line TM4

In the spermatogenesis, many nucleosides and nucleobases are needed for the salvage nucleotide biosynthesis. One of the roles of Sertoli cells is to provide such nutrients to spermatogenic cells located within the blood-testis barrier (BTB). We have already shown that nucleoside transporters are expressed and are functional in primary-cultured rat Sertoli cells and TM4 cells derived from mouse testis. Here, we examined the uptakes of purine ([3H]guanine) and pyrimidine ([3H]uracil) nucleobases using TM4 cells. Uptakes of both nucleobases were time- and concentration-dependent, and kinetic analysis indicated the involvement of high-affinity transport systems. Uptake of uracil was significantly reduced in the absence of Na+, although guanine uptake was mainly mediated by a sodium-independent transport system in TM4 cells. Guanine uptake was inhibited by other purine nucleobases, but not by pyrimidine nucleobases. Only pyrimidine nucleobases reduced uracil uptake. In addition, mycophenolic acid, an inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase inhibitor, up-regulated guanine uptake. These results suggested that there are distinct transport systems for purine and pyrimidine nucleobases in cells of mouse Sertoli cell line TM4.

Substituted cysteine accessibility method analysis of human concentrative nucleoside transporter hCNT3 reveals a novel discontinuous region of functional importance within the CNT family motif (G/A)XKX3NEFVA(Y/M/F)

The human SLC28 family of integral membrane CNT (concentrative nucleoside transporter) proteins has three members, hCNT1, hCNT2, and hCNT3. Na(+)-coupled hCNT1 and hCNT2 transport pyrimidine and purine nucleosides, respectively, whereas hCNT3 mediates transport of both pyrimidine and purine nucleosides utilizing Na(+) and/or H(+) electrochemical gradients. These and other eukaryote CNTs are currently defined by a putative 13-transmembrane helix (TM) topology model with an intracellular N terminus and a glycosylated extracellular C terminus. Recent mutagenesis studies, however, have provided evidence supporting an alternative 15-TM membrane architecture. In the absence of CNT crystal structures, valuable information can be gained about residue localization and function using substituted cysteine accessibility method analysis with thiol-reactive reagents, such as p-chloromercuribenzene sulfonate. Using heterologous expression in Xenopus oocytes and the cysteineless hCNT3 protein hCNT3C-, substituted cysteine accessibility method analysis with p-chloromercuribenzene sulfonate was performed on the TM 11-13 region, including bridging extramembranous loops. The results identified residues of functional importance and, consistent with a new revised 15-TM CNT membrane architecture, suggest a novel membrane-associated topology for a region of the protein (TM 11A) that includes the highly conserved CNT family motif (G/A)XKX(3)NEFVA(Y/M/F).

SLC28 genes and concentrative nucleoside transporter (CNT) proteins

The human concentrative nucleoside transporter (hCNT) protein family has three members, hCNT1, 2, and 3, encoded by SLC28A1, A2, and A3 genes, respectively. hCNT1 and hCNT2 translocate pyrimidine- and purine-nucleosides, respectively, by a sodium-dependent mechanism, whereas hCNT3 shows broad substrate selectivity and the unique ability of translocating nucleosides both in a sodium- and a proton-coupled manner. hCNT proteins are also responsible for the uptake of most nucleoside-derived antiviral and anticancer drugs. Thus, hCNTs are key pharmacological targets. This review focuses on several crucial aspects of hCNT biology and pharmacology: protein structure-function, structural determinants for transportability, pharmacogenetics of hCNT-encoding genes, role of hCNT proteins in nucleoside-based therapeutics, and finally hCNT physiology.

The role of mitochondrial and plasma membrane nucleoside transporters in drug toxicity

Many anticancer and antiviral drugs are nucleoside analogues, which interfere with nucleotide metabolism and DNA replication to produce pharmacological effects. Clinical efficacy and toxicity of nucleoside drugs are closely associated with nucleoside transporters because they mediate the transport of nucleoside drugs across biological membranes. Two families of human nucleoside transporters (equilibrative nucleoside transporters and concentrative nucleoside transporters) have been extensively studied for several decades. They are widely distributed, from the plasma membrane to membranes of organelles such as mitochondria, and the distribution differs in different tissues. In addition, they have different specificities to nucleoside drugs. The characteristics of equilibrative and concentrative nucleoside transporters affect the therapeutic outcomes achieved with anticancer and antiviral nucleoside drugs. In this review, an overview of the role of mitochondrial and plasma membrane nucleoside transporters in nucleoside drug toxicity is provided. Rational design and therapeutic application of nucleoside analogues are also discussed.

Novel C2-purine position analogs of nitrobenzylmercaptopurine riboside as human equilibrative nucleoside transporter 1 inhibitors

Nucleoside transporter inhibitors have potential therapeutic applications as anticancer, antiviral, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective agents. S(6)-(4-nitrobenzyl)mercaptopurine riboside (NBMPR) is a prototype inhibitor of the human equilibrative nucleoside transporter (hENT1), and is a high affinity ligand with a K(d) of 0.1-1.0 nM. We have synthesized and flow cytometrically evaluated the binding affinity of a series of novel C(2)-purine position substituted analogs of NBMPR at the hENT1. The aim of this research was to understand the substituent requirements at the C(2)-purine position of NBMPR. Structure-activity relationships (SAR) indicate that increasing the steric bulk at the C(2)-purine position of NBMPR led to a decrease in binding affinity of these ligands at the hENT1. New high affinity inhibitors were identified, with the best compound, 2-fluoro-4-nitrobenzyl mercaptopurine riboside (7), exhibiting a K(i) of 2.1 nM. This information, when coupled with the information obtained from other structure-activity relationship studies should prove useful in efforts aimed at modeling the NMBPR and analogs pharmacophore of hENT1 inhibitors.

Characterization of the rat Na+/nucleoside cotransporter 2 and transport of nucleoside-derived drugs using electrophysiological methods

The Na+-dependent nucleoside transporter 2 (CNT2) mediates active transport of purine nucleosides and uridine as well as therapeutic nucleoside analogs. We used the two-electrode voltage-clamp technique to investigate rat CNT2 (rCNT2) transport mechanism and study the interaction of nucleoside-derived drugs with the transporter expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes. The kinetic parameters for sodium, natural nucleosides, and nucleoside derivatives were obtained as a function of membrane potential. For natural substrates, apparent affinity ( K0.5) was in the low micromolar range (12–34) and was voltage independent for hyperpolarizing membrane potentials, whereas maximal current ( Imax) was voltage dependent. Uridine and 2′-deoxyuridine analogs modified at the 5-position were substrates of rCNT2. Lack of the 2′-hydroxyl group decreased affinity but increased Imax. Increase in the size and decrease in the electronegativity of the residue at the 5-position affected the interaction with the transporter by decreasing both affinity and Imax. Fludarabine and formycin B were also transported with higher Imaxthan uridine and moderate affinity (102 ± 10 and 66 ± 6 μM, respectively). Analysis of the pre-steady-state currents revealed a half-maximal activation voltage of about −39 mV and a valence of about −0.8. K0.5for Na+was 2.3 mM at −50 mV and decreased at hyperpolarizing membrane potentials. The Hill coefficient was 1 at all voltages. Direct measurements of radiolabeled nucleoside fluxes with the charge associated showed a ratio of two positive inward charges per nucleoside, suggesting a stoichiometry of two Na+per nucleoside. This discrepancy in the number of Na+molecules that bind rCNT2 may indicate a low degree of cooperativity between the Na+binding sites.

Characterization of novel Na+-dependent nucleobase transport systems at the blood-testis barrier

In the testis, nucleosides and nucleobases are important substrates of the salvage pathway for nucleotide biosynthesis, and one of the roles of Sertoli cells is to provide nutrients and metabolic precursors to spermatogenic cells located within the blood-testis barrier (BTB). We have already shown that concentrative and equilibrative nucleoside transporters are expressed and are functional in primary-cultured rat Sertoli cells as a BTB model, but little is known about nucleobase transport at the BTB or about the genes encoding specific nucleobase transporters in mammalian cells. In the present study, we examined the uptake of purine ([3H]guanine) and pyrimidine ([3H]uracil) nucleobases by primary-cultured rat Sertoli cells. The uptake of both nucleobases was time and concentration dependent. Kinetic analysis showed the involvement of three different transport systems in guanine uptake. In contrast, uracil uptake was mediated by a single Na+-dependent high-affinity transport system. Guanine uptake was inhibited by other purine nucleobases but not by pyrimidine nucleobases, whereas uracil uptake was inhibited only by pyrimidine nucleobases. In conclusion, it was suggested that there might be purine- or pyrimidine-selective nucleobase transporters in rat Sertoli cells.

Bile acids alter the subcellular localization of CNT2 (concentrative nucleoside cotransporter) and increase CNT2-related transport activity in liver parenchymal cells

CNT2 (concentrative nucleoside cotransporter) is a plasma membrane high-affinity Na+-coupled adenosine transporter, also localized in intracellular structures. This transporter protein may play additional roles other than nucleoside salvage, since it has recently been shown to be under purinergic control via K(ATP) channels, by a mechanism that does not seem to involve changes in its subcellular localization. In an attempt to identify the agents that promote CNT2 trafficking, bile acids were found to increase CNT2-related transport activity in a K(ATP) channel-independent manner in both Fao hepatoma and rat liver parenchymal cells. A maximum effect was recorded after treatment with hydrophilic anions such as TCA (taurocholate). However, this effect did not involve changes in the amount of CNT2 protein, it was instead associated with a subcellular redistribution of CNT2, resulting in an accumulation of the transporter at the plasma membrane. This was deduced from subcellular fractionation studies, biotinylation of plasma membrane proteins and subsequent CNT2 detection in streptavidin precipitates and in vivo confocal microscopic analysis of the distribution of a YFP (yellow fluorescent protein)-CNT2 construct. The induction of CNT2 translocation, triggered by TCA, was inhibited by wortmannin, dibutyryl-AMPc, PD98059 and colchicine, thus suggesting the involvement of the PI3K/ERK (phosphoinositide 3-kinase/extracellular-signal related kinase) pathway in microtubule-dependent activation of recombinant CNT2. These are novel effects of bile-acid physiology and provide the first evidence for short-term regulation of CNT2 translocation into and from the plasma membrane.

The Broadly Selective Human Na+/Nucleoside Cotransporter(hCNT3) Exhibits Novel Cation-coupled Nucleoside TransportCharacteristics

The concentrative nucleoside transporter (CNT) protein family in humans is represented by three members, hCNT1, hCNT2, and hCNT3. hCNT3, a Na+/nucleoside symporter, transports a broad range of physiological purine and pyrimidine nucleosides as well as anticancer and antiviral nucleoside drugs, and belongs to a different CNT subfamily than hCNT1/2. H+-dependent Escherichia coli NupC and Candida albicans CaCNT are also CNT family members. The present study utilized heterologous expression in Xenopus oocytes to investigate the specificity, mechanism, energetics, and structural basis of hCNT3 cation coupling. hCNT3 exhibited uniquely broad cation interactions with Na+, H+, and Li+ not shared by Na+-coupled hCNT1/2 or H+-coupled NupC/CaCNT. Na+ and H+ activated hCNT3 through mechanisms to increase nucleoside apparent binding affinity. Direct and indirect methods demonstrated cation/nucleoside coupling stoichiometries of 2:1 in the presence of Na+ and both Na+ plus H+, but only 1:1 in the presence of H+ alone, suggesting that hCNT3 possesses two Na+-binding sites, only one of which is shared by H+. The H+-coupled hCNT3 did not transport guanosine or 3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine and 2',3'-dideoxycytidine, demonstrating that Na+- and H+-bound versions of hCNT3 have significantly different conformations of the nucleoside binding pocket and/or translocation channel. Chimeric studies between hCNT1 and hCNT3 located hCNT3-specific cation interactions to the C-terminal half of hCNT3, setting the stage for site-directed mutagenesis experiments to identify the residues involved.

Identification and analysis of stage-specific expression of lysosome-associated protein transmembrane 4alpha gene during development of preimplantation rabbit nuclear transfer embryo

The stage-specific expression of Lysosome-associated protein transmembrane 4alpha (LAPTM4alpha) in preimplantation rabbit nuclear transfer (NT) embryo was identified with the DDRT-PCR and reverse Northern Blot. The full length (1,364 bp) cDNA of LAPTM4alpha was screened out from cDNA library constructed with rabbit ovary and in situ hybridization (ISH) was used to trace the distribution of the LAPTM4alpha mRNA in intra-ovary, especially the follicle which proved that the LAPTM4alpha gene expression is involved in the follicles development, maturation, ovulation, luteinization, and preimplantation development in the rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus domestica). To our knowledge, this is the first characterization of LAPTM4alpha gene expression and mRNA distribution in the rabbit ovary and first evidence for this gene involving in follicle development and rabbit preimplantation development.

Identification and localization of sodium-phosphate cotransporters in hepatocytes and cholangiocytes of rat liver

Hepatocytes and cholangiocytes release ATP into bile, where it is rapidly degraded into adenosine and P(i). In rat, biliary P(i) concentration (0.01 mM) is approximately 100-fold and 200-fold lower than in hepatocytes and plasma, respectively, indicating active reabsorption of biliary P(i). We aimed to functionally characterize canalicular P(i) reabsorption in rat liver and to identify the involved P(i) transport system(s). P(i) transport was determined in isolated rat canalicular liver plasma membrane (LPM) vesicles using a rapid membrane filtration technique. Identification of putative P(i) transporters was performed with RT-PCR from liver mRNA. Phosphate transporter protein expression was confirmed by Western blotting in basolateral and canalicular LPM and by immunofluorescence in intact liver. Transport studies in canalicular LPM vesicles demonstrated sodium-dependent P(i) uptake. Initial P(i) uptake rates were saturable with increasing P(i) concentrations, exhibiting an apparent K(m) value of approximately 11 muM. P(i) transport was stimulated by an acidic extravesicular pH and by an intravesicular negative membrane potential. These data are compatible with transport characteristics of sodium-phosphate cotransporters NaPi-IIb, PiT-1, and PiT-2, of which the mRNAs were detected in rat liver. On the protein level, NaPi-IIb was detected at the canalicular membrane of hepatocytes and at the brush-border membrane of cholangiocytes. In contrast, PiT-1 and PiT-2 were detected at the basolateral membrane of hepatocytes. We conclude that NaPi-IIb is most probably involved in the reabsorption of P(i) from primary hepatic bile and thus might play an important role in the regulation of biliary P(i) concentration.

Cell entry and export of nucleoside analogues

Some nucleoside analogues currently used as antiretroviral agents might promote mutagenesis besides their putative ability to interfere with endogenous nucleotide metabolism and/or inhibit viral transcription. The intracellular concentration of nucleosides and nucleobases is to some extent the result of the metabolic background of the specific cell line used for infection studies, its particular suit of enzymes and transporters. This review focuses on the transporter-mediated pathways implicated in either the uptake or the efflux of nucleoside- and nucleobase-derivatives. From a biochemical point of view, four different types of transport processes for nucleoside-related antiviral drugs have been described: (1) equilibrative uniport, (2) substrate exchange, (3) concentrative Na+- or H+-dependent uptake and finally, (4) substrate export through primary ATP-dependent active efflux pumps. These mechanisms are mainly related to the following set of transporter families: Concentrative Nucleoside Transporter (CNT), Equilibrative Nucleoside Transporter (ENT), Organic Anion Transporter (OAT) and Organic Cation Transporter (OCT), Peptide Transporter (PEPT) and Multidrug Resistance Protein (MRP). The basic properties of these carrier proteins and their respective role in the transport across the plasma membrane of nucleoside-derived antiviral drugs are reviewed.

The concentrative nucleoside transporter family (SLC28): new roles beyond salvage?

The concentrative nucleoside transporter (CNT) family (SLC28) has three members: SLC28A1 (CNT1), SLC28A2 (CNT2) and SLC28A3 (CNT3). The CNT1 and CNT2 transporters are co-expressed in liver parenchymal cells and macrophages, two suitable models in which to study cell cycle progression. Despite initial observations suggesting that these transporter proteins might contribute to nucleoside salvage during proliferation, their subcellular localization and regulatory properties suggest alternative roles in cell physiology. In particular, CNT2 is a suitable candidate for modulation of purinergic responses, since it is under the control of the adenosine 1 receptor. Increasing evidence also suggests a role for CNT2 in energy metabolism, since its activation relies on the opening of ATP-sensitive K+ channels. Animal and cell models genetically modified to alter nucleoside transporter expression levels may help to elucidate the particular roles of CNT proteins in cell physiology.

Mutation of leucine-92 selectively reduces the apparent affinity of inosine, guanosine, NBMPR [S6-(4-nitrobenzyl)-mercaptopurine riboside] and dilazep for the human equilibrative nucleoside transporter, hENT1

We developed a yeast-based assay for selection of hENT1 (human equilibrative nucleoside transporter 1) mutants that have altered affinity for hENT1 inhibitors and substrates. In this assay, expression of hENT1 in a yeast strain deficient in adenine biosynthesis (ade2) permits yeast growth on a plate lacking adenine but containing adenosine, a hENT1 substrate. This growth was prevented when inhibitors of hENT1 [e.g. NBMPR [S6-(4-nitrobenzyl)-mercaptopurine riboside], dilazep or dipyridamole] were included in the media. To identify hENT1 mutants resistant to inhibition by these compounds, hENT1 was randomly mutagenized and introduced into this strain. Mutation(s) that allowed growth of yeast cells in the presence of these inhibitors were then identified and characterized. Mutants harbouring amino acid changes at Leu92 exhibited resistance to NBMPR and dilazep but not dipyridamole. The IC50 values of NBMPR and dilazep for [3H]adenosine transport by one of these mutants L92Q (Leu92-->Gln) were approx. 200- and 4-fold greater when compared with the value for the wild-type hENT1, whereas that for dipyridamole remained unchanged. Additionally, when compared with the wild-type transporter, [3H]adenosine transport by L92Q transporter was significantly resistant to inhibition by inosine and guanosine but not by adenosine or pyrimidines. The Km value for inosine transport was approx. 4-fold greater for the L92Q mutant (260+/-16 mM) when compared with the wild-type transporter (65+/-7.8 mM). We have identified for the first time an amino acid residue (Leu92) of hENT1 that, when mutated, selectively alters the affinity of hENT1 to transport the nucleosides inosine and guanosine and its sensitivity to the inhibitors NBMPR and dilazep.

Uridine recognition motifs of human equilibrative nucleoside transporters 1 and 2 produced in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The sugar moiety of nucleosides has been shown to play a major role in permeant-transporter interaction with human equilibrative nucleoside transporters 1 and 2 (hENT1 and hENT2). To better understand the structural requirements for interactions with hENT1 and hENT2, a series of uridine analogs with sugar modifications were subjected to an assay that tested their abilities to inhibit [3H]uridine transport mediated by recombinant hENT1 and hENT2 produced in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. hENT1 displayed higher affinity for uridine than hENT2. Both transporters barely tolerated modifications or inversion of configuration at C(3'). The C(2')-OH at uridine was a structural determinant for uridine-hENT1, but not for uridine-hENT2, interactions. Both transporters were sensitive to modifications at C(5') and hENT2 displayed more tolerance to removal of C(5')-OH than hENT1; addition of an O-methyl group at C(5') greatly reduced interaction with either hENT1 or hENT2. The changes in binding energies between transporter proteins and the different uridine analogs suggested that hENT1 formed strong interactions with C(3')-OH and moderate interactions with C(2')-OH and C(5')-OH of uridine, whereas hENT2 formed strong interactions with C(3')-OH, weak interactions with C(5')-OH, and no interaction with C(2')-OH.

Transport of physiological nucleosides and anti-viral and anti-neoplastic nucleoside drugs by recombinant Escherichia coli nucleoside-H(+) cotransporter (NupC) produced in Xenopus laevis oocytes

The recently identified human and rodent plasma membrane proteins CNT1, CNT2 and CNT3 belong to a gene family (CNT) that also includes the bacterial nucleoside transport protein NupC. Heterologous expression in Xenopus oocytes has established that CNT1-3 correspond functionally to the three major concentrative nucleoside transport processes found in human and other mammalian cells (systems cit, cif and cib, respectively) and mediate Na(+) - linked uptake of both physiological nucleosides and anti-viral and anti-neoplastic nucleoside drugs. Here, one describes a complementary Xenopus oocyte transport study of Escherichia coli NupC using the plasmid vector pGEM-HE in which the coding region of NupC was flanked by 5'- and 3'-untranslated sequences from a Xenopus beta-globin gene. Recombinant NupC resembled human (h) and rat (r) CNT1 in nucleoside selectivity, including an ability to transport adenosine and the chemotherapeutic drugs 3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine (AZT), 2',3'- dideoxycytidine (ddC) and 2'-deoxy-2',2'-difluorocytidine (gemcitabine), but also interacted with inosine and 2',3'- dideoxyinosine (ddl). Apparent affinities were higher than for hCNT1, with apparent K(m) values of 1.5-6.3 microM for adenosine, uridine and gemcitabine, and 112 and 130 microM, respectively, for AZT and ddC. Unlike the relatively low translocation capacity of hCNT1 and rCNT1 for adenosine, NupC exhibited broadly similar apparent V(max) values for adenosine, uridine and nucleoside drugs. NupC did not require Na(+) for activity and was H(+) - dependent. The kinetics of uridine transport measured as a function of external pH were consistent with an ordered transport model in which H(+) binds to the transporter first followed by the nucleoside. These experiments establish the NupC-pGEM-HE/oocyte system as a useful tool for characterization of NupC-mediated transport of physiological nucleosides and clinically relevant nucleoside therapeutic drugs.

Nucleoside transporter subtype expression and function in rat skeletal muscle microvascular endothelial cells

1. Microvascular endothelial cells (MVECs) form a barrier between circulating metabolites, such as adenosine, and the surrounding tissue. We hypothesize that MVECs have a high capacity for the accumulation of nucleosides, such that inhibition of the endothelial nucleoside transporters (NT) would profoundly affect the actions of adenosine in the microvasculature. 2. We assessed the binding of [(3)H]nitrobenzylmercaptopurine riboside (NBMPR), a specific probe for the inhibitor-sensitive subtype of equilibrative NT (es), and the uptake of [(3)H]formycin B (FB), by MVECs isolated from rat skeletal muscle. The cellular expression of equilibrative (ENT1, ENT2, ENT3) and concentrative (CNT1, CNT2, CNT3) NT subtypes was also determined using both qualitative and quantitative polymerase chain reaction techniques. 3. In the absence of Na(+), MVECs accumulated [(3)H]FB with a V(max) of 21+/-1 pmol microl(-1) s(-1). This uptake was mediated equally by es (K(m) 260+/-70 microm) and ei (equilibrative inhibitor-insensitive; K(m) 130+/-20 microm) NTs. 4. A minor component of Na(+)-dependent cif (concentrative inhibitor-insensitive FB transporter)/CNT2-mediated [(3)H]FB uptake (V(i) 0.008+/-0.005 pmol microl(-1) s(-1) at 10 microm) was also observed at room temperature upon inhibition of ENTs with dipyridamole (2,6-bis(diethanolamino)-4,8-dipiperidinopyrimido-[5,4-d]pyrimidine)/NBMPR. 5. MVECs had 122,000 high-affinity (K(d) 0.10 nm) [(3)H]NBMPR binding sites (representing es transporters) per cell. A lower-affinity [(3)H]NBMPR binding component (K(d) 4.8 nm) was also observed that may be related to intracellular es-like proteins. 6. Rat skeletal muscle MVECs express es/ENT1, ei/ENT2, and cif/CNT2 transporters with characteristics typical of rat tissues. This primary cell culture model will enable future studies on factors influencing NT subtype expression, and the consequent effect on adenosine bioactivity, in the microvasculature.

Electrophysiological characterization of a recombinant human Na+-coupled nucleoside transporter (hCNT1) produced in Xenopus oocytes

Human concentrative nucleoside transporter 1 (hCNT1) mediates active transport of nucleosides and anticancer and antiviral nucleoside drugs across cell membranes by coupling influx to the movement of Na(+) down its electrochemical gradient. The two-microelectrode voltage-clamp technique was used to measure steady-state and presteady-state currents of recombinant hCNT1 produced in Xenopus oocytes. Transport was electrogenic, phloridzin sensitive and specific for pyrimidine nucleosides and adenosine. Nucleoside analogues that induced inwardly directed Na(+) currents included the anticancer drugs 5-fluorouridine, 5-fluoro-2'-deoxyuridine, cladribine and cytarabine, the antiviral drugs zidovudine and zalcitabine, and the novel thymidine mimics 1-(2-deoxy-beta-d-ribofuranosyl)-2,4-difluoro-5-methylbenzene and 1-(2-deoxy-beta-d-ribofuranosyl)-2,4-difluoro-5-iodobenzene. Apparent K(m) values for 5-fluorouridine, 5-fluoro-2'-deoxyuridine and zidovudine were 18, 15 and 450 microm, respectively. hCNT1 was Na(+) specific, and the kinetics of steady-state uridine-evoked Na(+) currents were consistent with an ordered simultaneous transport model in which Na(+) binds first followed by uridine. Membrane potential influenced both ion binding and carrier translocation. The Na(+)-nucleoside coupling stoichiometry, determined directly by comparing the uridine-induced inward charge movement to [(14)C]uridine uptake was 1: 1. hCNT1 presteady-state currents were used to determine the fraction of the membrane field sensed by Na(+) (61%), the valency of the movable charge (-0.81) and the average number of transporters present in the oocyte plasma membrane (6.8 x 10(10) per cell). The hCNT1 turnover rate at -50 mV was 9.6 molecules of uridine transported per second.

The concentrative nucleoside transporter family, SLC28

The SLC28 family consists of three subtypes of sodium-dependent, concentrative nucleoside transporters, CNT1, CNT2, and CNT3 (SLC28A1, SLC28A2, and SLC28A3, respectively), that transport both naturally occurring nucleosides and synthetic nucleoside analogs used in the treatment of various diseases. These subtypes differ in their substrate specificities: CNT1 is pyrimidine-nucleoside preferring, CNT2 is purine-nucleoside preferring, and CNT3 transports both pyrimidine and purine nucleosides. Recent studies have identified key amino acid residues that are determinants of pyrimidine and purine specificity of CNT1 and CNT2. The tissue distributions of the CNTs vary: CNT1 is localized primarily in epithelia, whereas CNT2 and CNT3 have more generalized distributions. Nucleoside transporters in the SLC28 and SLC29 families play critical roles in nucleoside salvage pathways where they mediate the first step of nucleotide biosynthesis. In addition, these transporters work in concert to terminate adenosine signaling. SLC28 family members are crucial determinants of response to a variety of anticancer and antiviral nucleoside analogs, as they modulate the entry of these analogs into target tissues. Further, this family is involved in the absorption and disposition of many nucleoside analogs. Several CNT single nucleoside polymorphisms (SNPs) have been identified, but have yet to be characterized.

Interferon-gamma regulates nucleoside transport systems in macrophages through signal transduction and activator of transduction factor 1 (STAT1)-dependent and -independent signalling pathways

The expressions of CNT and ENT (concentrative and equilibrative nucleoside transporters) in macrophages are differentially regulated by IFN-gamma (interferon-gamma). This cytokine controls gene expression through STAT1-dependent and/or -independent pathways (where STAT1 stands for signal transduction and activator of transcription 1). In the present study, the role of STAT1 in the response of nucleoside transporters to IFN-gamma was studied using macrophages from STAT1 knockout mice. IFN-gamma triggered an inhibition of ENT1-related nucleoside transport activity through STAT1-dependent mechanisms. Such inhibition of macrophage growth and ENT1 activity by IFN-gamma is required for DNA synthesis. Interestingly, IFN-gamma led to an induction of the CNT1- and CNT2-related nucleoside transport activities independent of STAT1, thus ensuring the supply of extracellular nucleosides for the STAT1-independent RNA synthesis. IFN-gamma up-regulated CNT2 mRNA and CNT1 protein levels and down-regulated ENT1 mRNA in both wild-type and STAT1 knockout macrophages. This is consistent with a STAT1-independent, long-term-mediated, probably transcription-dependent, regulation of nucleoside transporter genes. Moreover, STAT1-dependent post-transcriptional mechanisms are implicated in the regulation of ENT1 activity. Although nitric oxide is involved in the regulation of ENT1 activity in B-cells at a post-transcriptional level, our results show that STAT1-dependent induction of nitric oxide by IFN-gamma is not implicated in the regulation of ENT1 activity in macrophages. Our results indicate that both STAT1-dependent and -independent pathways are involved in the regulation of nucleoside transporters by IFN-gamma in macrophages.

Nucleoside transporters in the disposition and targeting of nucleoside analogs in the kidney

Systemic disposition of nucleosides and nucleoside analogs is dependent on renal handling of these compounds. There are five known, functionally characterized nucleoside transporters with varying substrate specificities for nucleosides: concentrative nucleoside transporters (CNT1-CNT3; Solute Carrier (SLC) 28A1-28A3), which mediate the intracellular flux of nucleosides, and equilibrative nucleoside transporters (ENT1-ENT2; SLC29A1-SLC29A2), which mediate bi-directional facilitated diffusion of nucleosides. All five of these transporters are expressed in the kidney. Concentrative nucleoside transporters primarily localize to the apical membrane of renal epithelial cells while equilibrative nucleoside transporters primarily localize to the basolateral membrane. These transporters work in concert to mediate reabsorptive flux of naturally occurring nucleosides and nucleoside analogs. In addition, equilibrative transporters also participate in secretory flux of some nucleoside analogs. Nucleoside transporters also serve in the targeting of nucleoside analog therapies to renal tumors. This review examines the role that these transporters play in renal disposition of nucleosides and nucleoside analogs in both systemic and kidney-specific therapies.

Genomic organization and functional characterization of the human concentrative nucleoside transporter-3 isoform (hCNT3) expressed in mammalian cells

Human CNT3 encodes the concentrative nucleoside transport N3 system. Previous expression studies in oocytes showed that the Km values for nucleosides of the cloned hCNT3 were 7- to 25-fold lower than the endogenous N3 transporter in HL60 cells. Therefore, in the present study we re-examined the kinetic properties of the cloned hCNT3 using mammalian cell expression systems by transient expression in Cos7L cells and stably expression in nucleoside transporter deficient PK15NTD cells. We demonstrated that hCNT3 is a Na-dependent, broadly-selective nucleoside transporter with affinities (<11 microM) for nucleosides closely resembling the endogenous N3 transporter. Pharmacological studies showed that phloridzin is a mixed-type inhibitor of hCNT3 (Ki=15 microM), and the dideoxyuridine analogs are poor substrates. By epitope-tagging, we further demonstrated that hCNT3 is N-glycosylated as PNGase F and Endo H deglycosylated hCNT3 from 67 kDa to 58 kDa. Searching the human genome database, we identified the genomic organization of hCNT3. This gene contains 19 exons and its exon-intron boundaries within the coding sequence exactly match with those of hCNT1 and hCNT2 with one additional exon in the N-terminus. Our data suggest that hCNT3 gene is evolutionarily conserved with hCNT1 and hCNT2. Physiologically, hCNT3 is a glycoprotein, which transports purine and pyrimidine nucleosides in a Na-dependent manner with high affinities.

Functional expression and characterization of a sodium-dependent nucleoside transporter hCNT2 cloned from human duodenum

We have cloned and functionally expressed a sodium-dependent human nucleoside transporter, hCNT2, from a CNS cancer cell line U251. Our cDNA clone of hCNT2 had the same predicted amino acid sequence as the previously cloned hCNT2 transporter. Of the several cell lines studied, the best hCNT2 transport function was obtained when transiently expressed in U251 cells. Na(+)-dependent uptake of [3H]inosine in U251 cells transiently expressing hCNT2 was 50-fold greater than that in non-transfected cells, and uptake in Na(+)-containing medium was approximately 30-fold higher than that at Na(+)-free condition. The hCNT2 displayed saturable uptake of [3H]inosine with K(m) of 12.8 microM and V(max) of 6.66 pmol/mg protein/5 min. Uptake of [3H]inosine was significantly inhibited by the purine nucleoside drugs dideoxyinosine and cladribine, but not by acyclic nucleosides including acyclovir, ganciclovir, and their prodrugs valacyclovir and valganciclovir. This indicates that the closed ribose ring is important for binding of nucleoside drugs to hCNT2. Among several pyrimidine nucleosides, hCNT2 favorably interacted with the uridine analogue floxuridine. Interestingly, we found that benzimidazole analogues, including maribavir, 5,6-dichloro-2-bromo-1-beta-D-ribofuranosylbenzimidazole (BDCRB), and 5,6-dichloro-1-beta-D-ribofuranosylbenzimidazole (DRB), were strong inhibitors of inosine transport, even though they have a significantly different heterocycle structure compared to a typical purine ring. As measured by GeneChip arrays, mRNA expression of hCNT2 in human duodenum was 15-fold greater than that of hCNT1 or hENT2. Further, the rCNT2 expression in rat duodenum was 20-fold higher than rCNT1, rENT1 or rENT2. This suggests that hCNT2 (and rCNT2) may have a significant role in uptake of nucleoside drugs from the intestine and is a potential transporter target for the development of nucleoside and nucleoside-mimetic drugs.

Functional characterization of a H+/nucleoside co-transporter (CaCNT) from Candida albicans, a fungal member of the concentrative nucleoside transporter (CNT) family of membrane proteins

Human and other mammalian concentrative (Na(+)-linked) nucleoside transport proteins belong to a membrane protein family (CNT, TC 2.A.41) that also includes Escherichia coli H(+)-dependent nucleoside transport protein NupC. Here, we report the cDNA cloning and functional characterization of a CNT family member from the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans. This 608 amino acid residue H(+)/nucleoside symporter, designated CaCNT, contains 13 predicted transmembrane domains (TMs), but lacks the exofacial, glycosylated carboxyl-terminus of its mammalian counterparts. When produced in Xenopus oocytes, CaCNT exhibited transport activity for adenosine, uridine, inosine and guanosine but not cytidine, thymidine or the nucleobase hypoxanthine. Apparent K(m) values were in the range 16-64 micro M, with V(max) : K(m) ratios of 0.58-1.31. CaCNT also accepted purine and uridine analogue nucleoside drugs as permeants, including cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine), a nucleoside analogue with anti-fungal activity. Electrophysiological measurements under voltage clamp conditions gave a H(+) to [(14)C]uridine coupling ratio of 1 : 1. CaCNT, obtained from logarithmically growing cells, is the first described cation-coupled nucleoside transporter in yeast, and the first member of the CNT family of proteins to be characterized from a unicellular eukaryotic organism.

Fludarabine uptake mechanisms in B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Nucleoside derivatives are currently used in the treatment of hematologic malignancies. Although intracellular events involved in the pharmacologic action of these compounds have been extensively studied, the role of plasma membrane transporters in nucleoside-derived drug bioavailability and action in leukemia cells has not been comprehensively addressed. We have monitored the amounts of mRNA for the 5 nucleoside transporter isoforms cloned so far (CNT1, CNT2, CNT3, ENT1, and ENT2) in several human cell types and in normal human leukocytes. We then examined the expression patterns of these plasma membrane proteins in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and correlated them with in vitro fludarabine cytotoxicity. Despite a huge individual variability in the mRNA amounts for every transporter gene expressed in CLL cells (CNT2, CNT3, ENT1, and ENT2), no relationship between mRNA levels and in vitro fludarabine cytotoxicity was observed. Fludarabine accumulation in CLL cells was mostly, if not exclusively, mediated by ENT-type transporters whose biologic activity was clearly correlated with fludarabine cytotoxicity, which reveals a role of ENT-mediated uptake in drug responsiveness in patients with CLL.

Functional analysis of site-directed glycosylation mutants of the human equilibrative nucleoside transporter-2

Protein glycosylation is important for nucleoside transport, and this has been demonstrated for the human equilibrative nucleoside transporter-1 (hENT1). It is not known whether glycosylation affects the functions of hENT2 or where hENT2 is glycosylated. We address these questions using N-glycosylation mutants (N48D, N57D, and N48/57D) and demonstrate that hENT2 is glycosylated at Asn(48) and Asn(57). Our results show that although the apparent affinities for [3H]uridine and [3H]cytidine of the mutants were indistinguishable from those of the wild-type protein, N-glycosylation was required for efficient targeting of hENT2 to the plasma membrane. All mutants had a two- to threefold increase in IC(50) for dipyridamole. N57D and N48/57D, but not N48D, also had a twofold increase in IC(50) for NBMPR. We conclude that the relative insensitivity of hENT2 to inhibitors is primarily due to its primary structure and not to glycosylation. Glycosylation modulates hENT1 function, but is not required for hENT2.

Sorting of rat SPNT in renal epithelium is independent of N-glycosylation

PURPOSE

The sodium-dependent, purine-selective nucleoside transporter, SPNT, has a unique steady-state expression pattern in renal epithelial cells. In comparison with the concentrative nucleoside transporter, CNTI, which is confined to the apical membrane, SPNT is expressed predominantly on the apical membrane but with significant expression on the basolateral membrane as well. Alternate surface expression indicates that SPNT likely has different sorting and trafficking mechanisms from CNTI. Because glycosylation has been reported to be essential for apical targeting of other transporters, and SPNT contains three unique glycosylation sites, we examined the importance of glycosylation in sorting of SPNT. Preliminary studies suggested that glycosylation affects surface expression of SPNT but not CNT1.

METHODS

All three unique glycosylation sites were mutated alone and in tandem. Wild-type and mutant SPNT, tagged with green fluorescence protein, were stably transfected into MDCK. Positive clones were assayed for polarized surface expression by immunofluorescence and functional analysis.

RESULTS

Mutation at all three sites alone or in tandem resulted in functional proteins. Removal of sites N606 and N625 resulted in proteins of reduced molecular mass. None of the unglycosylated mutants localized differently than wild-type SPNT.

CONCLUSION

N-linked glycosylation is not essential for polarized sorting.

Nucleoside transporters in absorptive epithelia

There are two families of nucleoside transporters, concentrative (termed CNTs) and equilibrative (called ENTs). The members of both families mediate the transmembrane transport of natural nucleosides and some drugs whose structure is based on nucleosides. CNT transporters show a high affinity for their natural substrates (with Km values in the low micromolar range) and are substrate selective. In contrast, ENT transporters show lower affinity and are more permissive regarding the substrates they accept. Both types of transporters are tightly regulated in all cell types studied so far, both by endocrine and growth factors and by substrate availability. The degree of cell differentiation and the proliferation status of a cell also affect the pattern of expressed transporters. Although the presence of both types of transporters in the cells of absortive epithelia suggested the possibility of a transepithelial flux of nucleosides, their exact localization in the different plasma membrane domains of epithelial cells had not been demonstrated until recently. Concentrative transporters are found in the apical membrane while equlibrative transporters are located in the basolateral membrane, thus strengthening the hypothesis of a transepithelial flux of nucleosides.

Specificity of human and rat orthologs of the concentrative nucleoside transporter, SPNT

To understand the roles that nucleoside transporters play in the in vivo distribution of clinically important nucleoside analogs, the substrate specificity of each transporter isoform should be determined. In the present work, we studied the substrate specificities of the human and rat orthologs of the Na+-dependent purine-selective nucleoside transporter (SPNT; concentrative nucleoside transporter 2), for nucleosides, nucleobases, and base- and ribose-modified nucleoside analogs. The two-electrode voltage-clamp technique in Xenopus laevis oocytes expressing these transporters was used. Purine nucleosides and uridine induced currents in oocytes expressing rat SPNT (rSPNT) or human SPNT1 (hSPNT1). The rank order of magnitude of nucleoside-induced currents was guanosine > uridine > adenosine > inosine and guanosine > uridine > inosine > adenosine for rSPNT- and hSPNT1-expressing oocytes, respectively. Uridine analogs (modified at the 5-position of the base) induced little or no current, suggesting that these compounds are only poorly transported by either transporter. Cladribine induced currents in oocytes expressing rSPNT (K(0.5) = 57 +/- 12 microM) but not hSPNT1. The ribose-modified nucleoside analogs, adenine arabinoside, and 2',3'-dideoxyadenosine induced currents in rSPNT-expressing, but not in hSPNT1-expressing, oocytes. These data suggest that there are notable species differences in the specificity of SPNT for synthetic nucleoside analogs.

Functional and molecular characterization of nucleobase transport by recombinant human and rat equilibrative nucleoside transporters 1 and 2. Chimeric constructs reveal a role for the ENT2 helix 5-6 region in nucleobase translocation

The human (h) and rat (r) equilibrative (Na(+)-independent) nucleoside transporters (ENTs) hENT1, rENT1, hENT2, and rENT2 belong to a family of integral membrane proteins with 11 transmembrane domains (TMs) and are distinguished functionally by differences in sensitivity to inhibition by nitrobenzylthioinosine and coronary vasoactive drugs. Structurally, the proteins have a large glycosylated loop between TMs 1 and 2 and a large cytoplasmic loop between TMs 6 and 7. In the present study, hENT1, rENT1, hENT2, and rENT2 were produced in Xenopus laevis oocytes and investigated for their ability to transport pyrimidine and purine nucleobases. hENT2 and rENT2 efficiently transported radiolabeled hypoxanthine, adenine, guanine, uracil, and thymine (apparent K(m) values 0.7-2.6 mm), and hENT2, but not rENT2, also transported cytosine. These findings were independently confirmed by hypoxanthine transport experiments with recombinant hENT2 produced in purine-cytosine permease (FCY2)-deficient Saccharomyces cerevisiae and provide the first direct demonstration that the ENT2 isoform is a dual mechanism for the cellular uptake of nucleosides and nucleobases, both of which are physiologically important salvage metabolites. In contrast, recombinant hENT1 and rENT1 mediated negligible oocyte fluxes of hypoxanthine relative to hENT2 and rENT2. Chimeric experiments between rENT1 and rENT2 using splice sites at rENT1 residues 99 (end of TM 2), 171 (between TMs 4 and 5), and 231 (end of TM 6) identified TMs 5-6 of rENT2 (amino acid residues 172-231) as a determinant of nucleobase transport activity, suggesting that this domain forms part(s) of the ENT2 substrate translocation channel.