Ca2+ pools and cell growth: arachidonic acid induces recovery of cells growth-arrested by Ca2+ pool depletion

Alterations of calcium homoeostasis in cultured rat astrocytes evoked by bioactive sphingolipids

AIM

In the brain, alterations in sphingolipid metabolism contribute to several neurological disorders; however, their effect on astrocytes is largely unknown. Here, we identified bioactive sphingolipids that affect intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)]i), mobility of peptidergic secretory vesicles, signalling pathways involved in alterations of calcium homoeostasis and explored the relationship between the stimulus-evoked increase in [Ca(2+)]i and attenuation of vesicle mobility.

METHODS

Confocal time-lapse images were acquired to explore [Ca(2+)]i signals, the mobility of fluorescently tagged peptidergic vesicles and the structural integrity of the microtubules and actin filaments before and after the addition of exogenous sphingolipids to astrocytes.

RESULTS

Fingolimod (FTY720), a recently introduced therapeutic for multiple sclerosis, and sphingosine, a releasable constituent of membrane sphingolipids, evoked long-lasting increases in [Ca(2+)]i in the presence and absence of extracellular Ca(2+); the evoked responses were diminished in the absence of extracellular Ca(2+). Activation of phospholipase C and inositol-1,4,5-triphosphate receptors was necessary and sufficient to evoke increases in [Ca(2+)]i as revealed by the pharmacologic inhibitors; Ca(2+) flux from the extracellular space intensified these responses several fold. The lipid-evoked increases in [Ca(2+)]i coincided with the attenuated vesicle mobility. High and positive correlation between increase in [Ca(2+)]i and decrease in peptidergic vesicle mobility was confirmed independently in astrocytes exposed to evoked, transient Ca(2+) signalling triggered by purinergic and glutamatergic stimulation.

CONCLUSION

Exogenously added cell-permeable sphingosine-like lipids exert complex, Ca(2+)-dependent effects on astrocytes and likely alter their homeostatic function in vivo.

Fibroblasts from type 1 diabetics exhibit enhanced Ca(2+) mobilization after TNF or fat exposure

The effects of cytokine and fatty acid treatment on signal transduction in dermal fibroblasts from type 1 diabetics and matched controls were compared. Chronic exposure to TNF, accentuated Ca²⁺ mobilization in response to bradykinin (BK) in cells from both controls and diabetics; responses were three-fold greater in cells from diabetics than in controls. Similarly, with chronic exposure to IL-1β, BK-induced Ca²⁺ mobilization was accentuated in cells from type 1 diabetics compared to the controls. Pretreatment with the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide or the protein kinase C inhibitor calphostin C prior to the addition of TNF completely abrogated the TNF-induced increment in peak bradykinin response. Ca²⁺ transients induced by depleting endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca²⁺ with thapsigargin were also greater in TNF treated fibroblasts than in untreated cells, with greater increases in cells from diabetics. Exposing fibroblasts for 48 hours to 2 mM oleate also increased both the peak bradykinin response and the TNF-induced increment in peak response, which were significantly greater in diabetics than controls. These data indicate that cells from diabetic patients acquire elevated ER Ca²⁺ stores in response to both cytokines and free fatty acids,and thus exhibit greater sensitivity to environmental inflammatory stimuli and elevated lipids.

The involvement of phospholipases A2 in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

The increased morbidity, mortality, and ineffective treatment associated with the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have generated much research interest. The key role is played by phospholipases from the A2 superfamily: enzymes which are involved in inflammation through participation in pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators production and have an impact on many immunocompetent cells. The 30 members of the A2 superfamily are divided into 7 groups. Their role in asthma and COPD has been studied in vitro and in vivo (animal models, cell cultures, and patients). This paper contains complete and updated information about the involvement of particular enzymes in the etiology and course of asthma and COPD.

Arachidonic acid inhibits osteoblast differentiation through cytosolic phospholipase A2-dependent pathway

OBJECTIVE

Arachidonic acid, a precursor of prostaglandins (PGs), is released by phospholipase A2 (PLA2) and plays an important role in biological reactions. We examined the roles of arachidonic acid on the pathway of PG synthesis and osteoblast differentiation by using clone MC3T3-E1 cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect of arachidonic acid was evaluated by the measurement of alkaline phosphatase activity, cells shape, production of arachidonic acid and the expression of cyclooxygenase (COX).

RESULTS

Arachidonic acid dose dependently decreased alkaline phosphatase activity and increased PGE2 production in MC3T3-E1 cells. The cell shape changed from polygonal to fibroblastic following treatment with arachidonic acid. These effects were recovered by the treatment of NS-398 and indomethacin. Arachidonic acid increased the expression of COX-2 mRNA and the PGE2 production. The exogenous arachidonic acid induced the release of cellular arachidonic acid in MC3T3-E1 cells. Moreover, methylarachidonyl fluorophosphonate suppressed the arachidonic acid release and the expression of COX-2 mRNA.

CONCLUSION

The present results indicate that exogenous arachidonic acid stimulated the activity of PLA2, leading to the new release of membranous arachidonic acid. The amplified arachidonic acid enhanced PGE2 production by COX-2, which inhibits the differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells. Our results provide a new insight into the molecular mechanisms by which exogenous arachidonic acid plays a role as a paracrine/autocrine amplifier of PGE2 biosynthesis by coupling with PLA2 and COX-2.

Fibroblast growth factor-2 is a downstream mediator of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt signaling in 14,15-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid-induced angiogenesis

To determine the efficacy of cytochrome P450 2C9 metabolites of arachidonic acid, viz. 5,6-, 8,9-, 11,12-, and 14,15-epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), in inducing angiogenesis, we have studied their effects on human dermal microvascular endothelial cell (HDMVEC) tube formation and migration. All four EETs stimulated HDMVEC tube formation and migration in a dose-dependent manner. Because 14,15-EET was found to be slightly more efficacious than 5,6-, 8,9-, and 11,12-EETs in stimulating HDMVEC tube formation and migration, we next focused on elucidation of the signaling mechanisms underlying its angiogenic activity. 14,15-EET stimulated Akt and S6K1 phosphorylation in Src- and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-dependent manner in HDMVECs. Inhibition of Src and PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling by both pharmacological and dominant-negative mutant approaches suppressed 14,15-EET-induced HDMVEC tube formation and migration in vitro and Matrigel plug angiogenesis in vivo. In addition, 14,15-EET induced the expression of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) in Src- and PI3K-Akt-dependent and mTOR-independent manner in HDMVECs. Neutralizing anti-FGF-2 antibodies completely suppressed 14,15-EET-induced HDMVEC tube formation and migration in vitro and Matrigel plug angiogenesis in vivo. Together, these results show for the first time that Src and PI3K-Akt signaling via targeting in parallel with FGF-2 expression and mTOR-S6K1 activation plays an indispensable role in 14,15-EET-induced angiogenesis.

15(S)-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid induces angiogenesis via activation of PI3K-Akt-mTOR-S6K1 signaling

To determine whether the lipoxygenase metabolites of arachidonic acid, 5(S)-, 12(S)-, and 15(S)-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids [5(S)-HETE, 12(S)-HETE, and 15(S)-HETE, respectively] are angiogenic, we have studied their effects on human dermal microvascular endothelial cell (HDMVEC) tube formation and migration. All three HETEs stimulated HDMVEC tube formation and migration. Because 15(S)-HETE was found to be more potent than 5(S)-HETE and 12(S)-HETE in HDMVEC tube formation, we next focused on elucidation of the signaling mechanisms underlying its angiogenic activity. 15(S)-HETE stimulated Akt and S6K1 phosphorylation in HDMVEC in a time-dependent manner. Wortmannin and LY294002, two specific inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), blocked both Akt and S6K1 phosphorylation, whereas rapamycin, a specific inhibitor of Akt downstream effector, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), suppressed only S6K1 phosphorylation induced by 15(S)-HETE suggesting that this eicosanoid activates the PI3K-Akt-mTOR-S6K1 signaling in HDMVEC. Wortmannin, LY294002, and rapamycin also inhibited 15(S)-HETE-induced HDMVEC tube formation and migration. In addition, all three HETEs stimulated angiogenesis as measured by in vivo Matrigel plug assay with 15(S)-HETE being more potent. Pharmacologic inhibition of PI3K-Akt-mTOR-S6K1 signaling completely suppressed 15(S)-HETE-induced in vivo angiogenesis. Consistent with these observations, adenoviral-mediated expression of dominant-negative Akt also blocked 15(S)-HETE-induced HDMVEC tube formation and migration and in vivo angiogenesis. Together, these results show for the first time that 15(S)-HETE stimulates angiogenesis via activation of PI3K-Akt-mTOR-S6K1 signaling.

STIM1 is a Ca2+ sensor that activates CRAC channels and migrates from the Ca2+ store to the plasma membrane

As the sole Ca2+ entry mechanism in a variety of non-excitable cells, store-operated calcium (SOC) influx is important in Ca2+ signalling and many other cellular processes. A calcium-release-activated calcium (CRAC) channel in T lymphocytes is the best-characterized SOC influx channel and is essential to the immune response, sustained activity of CRAC channels being required for gene expression and proliferation. The molecular identity and the gating mechanism of SOC and CRAC channels have remained elusive. Previously we identified Stim and the mammalian homologue STIM1 as essential components of CRAC channel activation in Drosophila S2 cells and human T lymphocytes. Here we show that the expression of EF-hand mutants of Stim or STIM1 activates CRAC channels constitutively without changing Ca2+ store content. By immunofluorescence, EM localization and surface biotinylation we show that STIM1 migrates from endoplasmic-reticulum-like sites to the plasma membrane upon depletion of the Ca2+ store. We propose that STIM1 functions as the missing link between Ca2+ store depletion and SOC influx, serving as a Ca2+ sensor that translocates upon store depletion to the plasma membrane to activate CRAC channels.

STAT-3-dependent cytosolic phospholipase A2 expression is required for thrombin-induced vascular smooth muscle cell motility

Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) migration from media to intima and its multiplication in intima is a contributing factor in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and restenosis after angioplasty. Previously, we have demonstrated that STAT-3-dependent cytosolic phospholipase A(2) (cPLA(2)) expression is needed for VSMC motility induced by platelet-derived growth factor-BB, a receptor tyrosine kinase agonist (Neeli et al. (2005) J. Biol. Chem. 279, 46122-46128). In order to learn more about the STAT-3-cPLA(2) axis in motogenic signaling, here we have studied its role in VSMC motility in response to a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) agonist, thrombin. Thrombin induced VSMC motility in a dose-dependent manner with a maximum effect at 0.5 units/ml. Thrombin activated STAT-3 as measured by its tyrosine phosphorylation and translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. Forced expression of a dominant negative mutant of STAT-3 reduced thrombin-induced STAT-3 tyrosine phosphorylation and its translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. Thrombin stimulated STAT-3-DNA binding and reporter gene activities in VSMC, and these responses were blocked by FS3DM, a dominant negative mutant of STAT-3. FS3DM also attenuated thrombin-induced VSMC motility. Thrombin induced the expression of cPLA(2) in a time- and STAT-3-dependent manner. In addition, pharmacological inhibition of cPLA(2) blocked thrombin-induced VSMC motility. Furthermore, exogenous addition of arachidonic acid rescued thrombin-induced VSMC motility from inhibition by blockade of STAT-3 activation. Forced expression of cPLA(2) also surpassed the inhibitory effect of dominant negative STAT-3 on thrombin-induced VSMC motility. Together, these results show that thrombin-induced VSMC motility requires STAT-3-dependent induction of expression of cPLA(2).

An essential role of the Jak-2/STAT-3/cytosolic phospholipase A(2) axis in platelet-derived growth factor BB-induced vascular smooth muscle cell motility

Platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) is a potent motogen for vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). To understand its motogenic signaling events, we have studied the role of the Janus-activated kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (Jak/STAT) pathway and cytosolic phospholipase A(2) (cPLA(2)). PDGF-BB stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of Jak-2 and STAT-3 in a time-dependent manner in VSMCs. In addition, AG490 and Jak-2KEpRK5, a selective pharmacological inhibitor and a dominant negative mutant, respectively, of Jak-2, attenuated PDGF-BB-induced STAT-3 tyrosine phosphorylation and its DNA binding and reporter gene activities. PDGF-BB induced VSMC motility in a dose-dependent manner with a maximum effect at 10 ng/ml. Dominant negative mutant-dependent suppression of Jak-2 and STAT-3 blocked PDGF-BB-induced VSMC motility. PDGF-BB induced the expression of cPLA(2) in a Jak-2/STAT-3-dependent manner, and pharmacological inhibitors of cPLA(2) prevented PDGFBB-induced VSMC motility. Furthermore, either exogenous addition of arachidonic acid or forced expression of cPLA(2) rescued PDGF-BB-induced VSMC motility from inhibition by blockade of Jak-2 and STAT-3 activation. Together, these results for the first time show that PDGF-BB-induced VSMC motility requires activation of the Jak-2/STAT-3/cPLA(2) signaling axis.

Arachidonic acid activation of translation initiation signaling in vascular smooth muscle cells

To understand the role of arachidonic acid (AA) in regulating vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) growth, its effects on phosphorylation of Akt, S6K1, ribosomal protein S6, 4EBP1, and eIF4E were studied. Arachidonic acid stimulated phosphorylation of Akt, S6K1, ribosomal protein S6, 4EBP1, and eIF4E in a time-dependent manner in VSMC. Arachidonic acid stimulation of phosphorylation of the above signaling molecules is specific, as these events were not affected by other unsaturated or saturated fatty acids. Metabolic conversion of AA via the LOX/MOX and/or COX pathways, to some extent, was required for its effects on the phosphorylation of Akt, S6K1, ribosomal protein S6, 4EBP1, and eIF4E. In addition, AA increased PI3K activity in a time-dependent manner in VSMC. LY294002, an inhibitor of PI3K, completely blocked AA-induced phosphorylation of Akt, S6K1, ribosomal protein S6, 4EBP1, and eIF4E, suggesting a role for PI3K in these effects. Consistent with its effects on translation initiation signaling events, AA induced global protein synthesis in VSMC and this response was dependent, to some extent, on its metabolism via the LOX/MOX and/or COX pathways, and mediated by the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Thus, the above observations provide the first biochemical evidence for the role of AA in the activation of translation initiation signaling in VSMC.

Cytosolic phospholipase A2 is an effector of Jak/STAT signaling and is involved in platelet-derived growth factor BB-induced growth in vascular smooth muscle cells

Platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) is a potent mitogen and chemoattractant for vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). To understand its mitogenic and chemotactic signaling events, we studied the role of cytosolic phospholipase A(2) (cPLA(2)) and the Jak/STAT pathway. PDGF-BB induced the expression and activity of cPLA(2) in a time-dependent manner in VSMC. Arachidonyl trifluoromethyl ketone, a potent and specific inhibitor of cPLA(2), significantly reduced PDGF-BB-induced arachidonic acid release and DNA synthesis. PDGF-BB stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of Jak-2 in a time-dependent manner. In addition, PDGF-BB activated STAT-3 as determined by its tyrosine phosphorylation, DNA-binding activity, and reporter gene expression, and these responses were suppressed by AG490, a selective inhibitor of Jak-2. AG490 and a dominant-negative mutant of STAT-3 also attenuated PDGF-BB-induced expression of cPLA(2,) arachidonic acid release, and DNA synthesis in VSMC. Together, these results suggest that induction of expression of cPLA(2) and arachidonic acid release are involved in VSMC growth in response to PDGF-BB and that these events are mediated by Jak-2-dependent STAT-3 activation.

5(S)-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid stimulates DNA synthesis in human microvascular endothelial cells via activation of Jak/STAT and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt signaling, leading to induction of expression of basic fibroblast growth factor 2

To understand the role of eicosanoids in angiogenesis, we have studied the effect of lipoxygenase metabolites of arachidonic acid on human microvascular endothelial cell (HMVEC) DNA synthesis. Among the various lipoxygenase metabolites of arachidonic acid tested, 5(S)-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (5(S)-HETE) induced DNA synthesis in HMVEC. 5(S)-HETE also stimulated Jak-2, STAT-1, and STAT-3 tyrosine phosphorylation and STAT-3-DNA binding activity. Tyrphostin AG490, a specific inhibitor of Jak-2, significantly reduced tyrosine phosphorylation and DNA binding activity of STAT-3 and DNA synthesis induced by 5(S)-HETE. In addition, 5(S)-HETE stimulated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-kinase) activity and phosphorylation of its downstream targets Akt, p70S6K, and 4E-BP1 and their effector molecules ribosomal protein S6 and eIF4E. LY294002 and rapamycin, potent inhibitors of PI3-kinase and mTOR, respectively, also blocked the DNA synthesis induced by 5(S)-HETE. Interestingly, AG490 attenuated 5(S)-HETE-induced PI3-kinase activity and phosphorylation of Akt, p70S6K, ribosomal protein S6, 4E-BP1, and eIF4E. 5(S)-HETE induced the expression of basic fibroblast growth factor 2 (bFGF-2) in a Jak-2- and PI3-kinase-dependent manner. In addition, a neutralizing anti-bFGF-2 antibody completely blocked 5(S)-HETE-induced DNA synthesis in HMVEC. Together these results suggest that 5(S)-HETE stimulates HMVEC growth via Jak-2- and PI3-kinase-dependent induction of expression of bFGF-2. These findings also reveal a cross-talk between Jak-2 and PI3-kinase in response to 5(S)-HETE in HMVEC.

Cytosolic phospholipase A(2)-mediated ICAM-1 expression is calcium dependent

BACKGROUND

Some human malignancies such as virus-related hepatocellular cancer arise in a setting of chronic inflammation. Upregulation of ICAM-1 is a seminal late event in malignant transformation following chronic inflammation. Cytosolic phospholipase A(2) (cPLA(2)) is a lipid-mediator activated by inflammatory stimuli, which has been shown to mediate ICAM-1 upregulation. As lipid mediators are known to work via calcium-dependent mechanisms in nearly all mammalian cells, we hypothesize that inflammatory-mediated ICAM-1 upregulation is dependent on both cPLA(2) and intracellular calcium.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HUVEC were chosen as a representative cell line as they emulate hepatic sinusoids and are a well-established cell model. These were grown to confluence in T-25 flasks and stimulated with TNF-alpha or LPS for 6 h. Additional groups were preincubated with AACOCF3 (a specific cPLA(2) inhibitor) or BAPTA A.M. (a specific inhibitor of intracellular Ca(2+)) prior to being exposed to inflammatory stimuli. ICAM-1 expression was determined by mean fluorescent intensity (MFI) as measured by FITC-labeled moAb to ICAM-1 via FACS. The role of intracellular Ca(2+) on cPLA(2) activity was determined by thin-layer chromatography. Groups were compared using ANOVA with Scheffe's post hoc analysis; *P < 0.05 vs control, daggerP < 0.05 vs LPS and TNF-alpha was considered significant; N > or = 4 all experimental groups.

RESULTS

Both cPLA(2) and Ca(2+) inhibition significantly inhibited inflammatory upregulation of ICAM-1. Pretreatment with BAPTA A.M. attenuated HUVEC cPLA(2) activity in response to LPS. These findings suggest that appropriate molecular target suppression may prevent malignant degeneration in the presence of chronic inflammation.

Cytosolic phospholipase A(2) activity associated with nuclei is not inhibited by arachidonyl trifluoromethyl ketone in macrophages stimulated with receptor-recognized forms of alpha(2)-macroglobulin

We have studied the translocation of cytosolic phospholipase A(2) (cPLA(2)) to nuclei in macrophages stimulated with receptor-recognized forms of alpha(2)-macroglobulin (alpha(2)M*). Translocation of phosphorylated cPLA(2) to nuclei was determined by immunoprecipitation of cPLA(2) in (32)P(i)-labeled cells. The identity of cPLA(2) was established by comparing its mobility on gels with an authentic cPLA(2) standard. cPLA(2) activity was quantified by measuring the release of [(14)C]arachidonic acid from the substrate 1-palmitoyl-2-[1-(14)C]arachidonyl-sn-glycerophosphatidylcholine. alpha(2)M* caused a two- to threefold increase in cPLA(2) phosphorylation and its translocation to nuclei. The p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580, PKC inhibitor chelerythrin, or depletion of intracellular Ca(2+) profoundly decreased cPLA(2) activity in nuclei isolated from agonist-stimulated cells. The requirement for Ca(2+), PKC, and p38 MAPK activation appears to be of major importance for nuclear cPLA(2) activity. In contrast to cellular cPLA(2) activity, nuclear cPLA(2) activity was not inhibited by arachidonyl trifluoromethyl ketone (AACOCF(3)) in agonist-stimulated cells. It is concluded that the association of cPLA(2) with nuclear membranes in agonist-stimulated cells modifies the activity and the sensitivity of the enzyme to inhibition by AACOCF(3) in this phospholipid environment.

Phospholipase A(2) is involved in thapsigargin-induced sodium influx in human lymphocytes

Previously, we reported that emptying of intracellular Ca(2+) pools with endoplasmatic Ca(2+)-ATP-ase inhibitor thapsigargin leads to the Na(+) influx in human lymphocytes (M. Tepel et al., 1994, J. Biol. Chem. 269, 26239-26242). In the present study we examined the mechanism underlying the thapsigargin-induced Na(+) entry. We found that the thapsigargin-induced increase in Na(+) concentration was effectively inhibited by three structurally unrelated phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) inhibitors, p-bromophenacyl bromide, 3-(4-octadecyl)-benzoylacrylic acid (OBAA), and bromoenol lactone (BEL). The thapsigargin-induced Na(+) influx could be mimicked by PLA(2) exogenously added to the lymphocyte suspension. In addition, thapsigargin stimulated formation of arachidonic acid (AA), the physiological PLA(2) product. AA induced Na(+) entry in a time- and concentration-dependent fashion. Both, thapsigargin-induced Na(+) influx and AA liberation were completely inhibited in the presence of tyrosine kinase inhibitor genistein but not in the absence of extracellular Ca(2+). Collectively, these data show that thapsigargin-induced Na(+) entry is associated with tyrosine kinase-dependent stimulation of PLA(2).

Potentiation of calcium levels by extracellular arachidonic acid in nuclei isolated from macrophages stimulated with receptor-recognized forms of alpha(2)-macroglobulin

Ligation of macrophage alpha(2)-macroglobulin signalling receptors (alpha(2)MSR) with activated alpha(2)-macroglobulin (alpha(2)M*) increases intracellular Ca(2+), and cytosolic phospholipase A(2) (cPLA(2)) and phospholipase D activities. In view of the relationship between cellular Ca(2+) and mitogenesis, we examined the effect of the product of cPLA(2) activity, arachidonic acid (AA), on nuclear Ca(2+) levels in macrophages stimulated with alpha(2)M*, platelet derived growth factor, and bradykinin. AA addition increased Ca(2+) levels in Fura-2/AM loaded nuclei from both buffer-treated and agonist-stimulated cells, but the increase in stimulated macrophages was 2-4-fold higher. Preincubation of Fura-2/AM loaded nuclei with EGTA or BAPTA/AM abolished AA-induced increase in nuclear Ca(2+) levels. Preincubation of nuclei with indomethacin did not affect AA-induced increase in nuclear Ca(2+) in agonist-stimulated nuclei. It is concluded that in macrophages stimulated with various agonists, AA, derived from cPLA(2)-dependent hydrolysis of phospholipids, plays a significant role in regulating nuclear Ca(2+) levels and thus nuclear functions.

SR compartment calcium and cell apoptosis in SERCA overexpression

The relationship between SR Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA) activities, cell calcium level, SR calcium store and cell cycle events is not clearly understood. We studied SERCA overexpression in Cos cells using an adenovirus vector. Twofold increases in SERCA mRNA and in protein were correlated with a 2.3-fold and a 1.6-fold paralleled increase in SR calcium pump activity (R = 0.97 and R = 0.99 respectively). Dose-related apoptotic cell death was associated with SERCA overexpression (R = 0.92). When serum was reduced to 4%, cell apoptosis further increased from 20.7 +/- 4.8% to 47.5 +/- 12.9% (M+/-SD; P<0.05; n=3). Flow cytometry identified cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase. The interleukin-1 converting enzyme (ICE) inhibitor z-VAD-fmk reduced apoptosis for low-, medium- and high-expressing constructs, whereas the CPP-32 inhibitor z-DEVD-fmk had no effect. Flow cytometry using Fluo-3 and Fura-Red revealed a 1.5-fold higher basal calcium and a 10-fold SR calcium overload. ICE inhibitor z-VAD-fmk did not alter calcium loading. An epitope-tagged SERCA mutant, which has no intrinsic Ca2+-pump activities, had a much smaller effect on the SR calcium. These findings suggest that SERCA2A overexpression has an intrinsic role in altering cell-cycle progression, augmenting cellular and SR calcium loading, and precipitating ICE protease-mediated apoptosis; this represents as a novel model for primary SR calcium overload and associated cell apoptosis.

Fatty acid-mediated calcium sequestration within intracellular calcium pools

Intracellular Ca2+ pools play an essential role in generating Ca2+ signals. The heterogeneity of intracellular Ca2+ pools reflects the complex and dynamic character of the endoplasmic reticulum within which they reside. Translocation of Ca2+ between distinct subcompartments of the endoplasmic reticulum is mediated by a sensitive and specific GTP-activated process involving formation of reversible communicating junctions (Rys-Sikora, K. E., Ghosh, T. K., and Gill, D. L. (1994) J. Biol. Chem. 269, 31607-31613). In the presence of palmitate at 10 microM or above, this GTP-activated mechanism mediates substantial Ca2+ accumulation within a specific Ca2+-pumping pool. The fatty acid- and GTP-dependent accumulation of Ca2+ was highly chain length-specific; pentadecanoate (C15) and palmitate (C16) were equally effective, whereas fatty acids of shorter or longer chain length were either marginally effective or devoid of effect. Fatty acids with one or more unsaturated carbons were without effect, regardless of chain length. Palmitate-induced Ca2+ accumulation was immediately terminated with 2 microM palmitoyl-CoA, a blocker of the GTP-activated Ca2+-translocating mechanism. The anion transport inhibitor 4, 4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid completely prevented both palmitate- and oxalate-mediated GTP-dependent Ca2+ accumulation, with EC50 approximately 30 microM. Ca2+ sequestered in the presence of palmitate and GTP could be immediately and completely released by A23187, whereas the sequestered Ca2+ was remarkably resistant to release induced by inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3). In contrast, oxalate-sequestered Ca2+ within the same pool could be effectively released by either ionophore or InsP3. The results indicate that fatty acids are specifically transported into the lumen of a subset of Ca2+ pools, wherein they mediate substantial sequestration of Ca2+ in a distinct membrane-associated substate that is not readily releasable by opened InsP3-sensitive Ca2+ channels.

Cyclosporin A Inhibits Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Binding to Its Receptors and Release of Calcium from Intracellular Stores in Peritoneal Macrophages

We have studied the effects of the immunosuppressive drug cyclosporin A (CsA) on the generation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) and intracellular Ca2+ levels elicited upon ligation of murine macrophage receptors for α2-macroglobulin, bradykinin, epidermal growth factor, and platelet-derived growth factor. Preincubation of cells with CsA (500 ng/ml), either alone or with the various ligands, did not inhibit the synthesis of IP3. However, we observed 70–80% inhibition of the binding of [3H]IP3 to IP3 receptors on macrophage membranes isolated from CsA-treated macrophages. Preincubation of macrophages with CsA abolished IP3-mediated release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores and Ca2+ entry from the extracellular medium observed when macrophage receptors were stimulated with ligands in the absence of CsA. Preincubation of macrophages with CsA also significantly inhibited DNA synthesis induced by ligands for all four receptors studied. Thus in macrophages, as in T cells, CsA blocks receptor-activated signal transmission pathways characterized by an initial increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration. This inhibition appears to result from a drug effect on IP3 receptors.

Ca2+ pool emptying stimulates Ca2+ entry activated by S-nitrosylation

The entry of Ca2+ following Ca2+ pool release is a major component of Ca2+ signals; yet despite intense study, how "store-operated" entry channels are activated is unresolved. Because S-nitrosylation has become recognized as an important regulatory modification of several key channel proteins, its role in Ca2+ entry was investigated. A novel class of lipophilic NO donors activated Ca2+ entry independent of the well defined NO target, guanylate cyclase. Strikingly similar entry of Ca2+ induced by cell permeant alkylators indicated that this Ca2+ entry process was activated through thiol modification. Significantly, Ca2+ entry activated by either NO donors or alkylators was highly stimulated by Ca2+ pool depletion, which increased both the rate of Ca2+ release and the sensitivity to thiol modifiers. The results indicate that S-nitrosylation underlies activation of an important store-operated Ca2+ entry mechanism.

PLA2 activity regulates Ca2+ storage-dependent cellular proliferation

The objective of this study is to determine the role of arachidonic acid (AA) in cell proliferation by inhibiting AA synthetic enzyme phospholipase A2 (PLA2) and to determine its involvement in the role of the second messenger intracellular calcium (Ca2+). Methods used to determine the effects on proliferation of cell cultures of primary meningioma and astrocytoma U373-MG included treatment with micromolar concentrations of PLA2 inhibitors 4-bromophenacylbromide and quinacrine. Effects of these drugs on proliferation were further investigated by the application of concentrations that inhibit growth by 50% while antagonizing these agents with AA replacement. Free cytosolic Ca2+ was measured with the use of fluorescent dye Fura-2 during PLA2 agonist/antagonist studies. These Ca2+ measurements were performed in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ to identify the contribution of intracellular Ca2+ sources. PLA2 inhibition resulted in decreased growth of cultured astrocytoma and meningioma cells in a dose-dependent manner in the micromolar range. This inhibitory effect was antagonized by the addition of AA. PLA2 inhibition caused an elevation of basal-cytosolic-free [Ca2+] while depleting internal Ca2+ stores. These Ca2+ changes were also antagonized by the addition of AA. In conclusion, these results demonstrate that AA, a PLA2 enzyme product, is involved in regulating the growth rate of these cell types. The PLA2 pathway also regulates the maintenance of the internal Ca2+ stores. Ca2+ is known to be a growth-related intracellular second messenger. These results suggest that the growth regulatory functions of AA are mediated by Ca2+-dependent mechanisms.

Cytokines induce airway smooth muscle cell hyperresponsiveness to contractile agonists

The important pathophysiological features of the airways in asthma include exaggerated narrowing to bronchoconstrictor agonists and attenuated relaxation to beta adrenoceptor stimulation. These physiological perturbations are associated with inflammation and remodelling of the airways, the latter including an increase in airway smooth muscle cell mass, disruption of the airway epithelium, and changes in the airway tissue extracellular matrix. Recent evidence suggests that cytokines, important molecules modulating airway inflammation, also directly decrease airway smooth muscle responsiveness to beta adrenergic agents, stimulate cytokine secretion, inhibit or promote airway smooth muscle proliferation, and "prime" airway smooth muscle to become hyperresponsive to bronchoconstrictors. Characterisation of the cellular and biochemical events that are involved in activation of airway smooth muscle is likely to be the major consideration in the design of future therapies for asthma. Because calcium is an essential regulatory element for cell growth and cell contraction, it is likely that alterations in calcium mobilisation may, in part, play a role in creating an airway smooth muscle phenotype that is hyperresponsive to contractile agonists. Further studies will be required to determine the precise mechanisms involved in cytokine modulation of calcium homeostasis in airway smooth muscle.

Binding of receptor-recognized forms of alpha2-macroglobulin to the alpha2-macroglobulin signaling receptor activates phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase

Ligation of the alpha2-macroglobulin (alpha2M) signaling receptor by receptor-recognized forms of alpha2M (alpha2M*) initiates mitogenesis secondary to increased intracellular Ca2+. We report here that ligation of the alpha2M signaling receptor also causes a 1. 5-2.5-fold increase in wortmannin-sensitive phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) activity as measured by the quantitation of phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP3). PIP3 formation was alpha2M* concentration-dependent with a maximal response at approximately 50 pM ligand concentration. The peak formation of PIP3 occurred at 10 min of incubation. The alpha2M receptor binding fragment mutant K1370R which binds to the alpha2M signaling receptor activating the signaling cascade, increased PIP3 formation by 2-fold. The mutant K1374A, which binds very poorly to the alpha2M signaling receptor, did not cause any increase in PIP3 formation. alpha2M*-induced DNA synthesis was inhibited by wortmannin. 1, 2Bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acetoxymethylester a chelator of intracellular Ca2+, drastically reduced alpha2M*-induced increases in PIP3 formation. We conclude that PI3K is involved in alpha2M*-induced mitogenesis in macrophages and intracellular Ca2+ plays a role in PI3K activation.

The endogenous cannabinoid anandamide is a lipid messenger activating cell growth via a cannabinoid receptor-independent pathway in hematopoietic cell lines

The effect of anandamide, an endogenous ligand for central (CB1) and peripheral (CB2) cannabinoid receptors, was investigated on the growth of the murine IL-6-dependent lymphoid cell line B9 and the murine IL-3-dependent myeloblastic cell line FDC-P1. In conditions of low serum level, anandamide potentiated the growth of both cytokine-dependent cell lines. Comparison with other fatty acid cannabinoid ligands such as (R)-methanandamide, a ligand with improved selectivity for the CB1 receptor, or palmitylethanolamide, an endogenous ligand for the CB2 receptor, showed a very similar effect, suggesting that cell growth enhancement by anandamide or its analogs could be mediated through either receptor subtype. However, several lines of evidence indicated that this growth-promoting effect was cannabinoid receptor-independent. First, the potent synthetic cannabinoid agonist CP 55940, which displays high affinity for both receptors, was inactive in this model. Second, SR 141716A and SR 144528, which are potent and specific antagonists of CB1 and CB2 receptors respectively, were unable, alone or in combination, to block the anandamide-induced effect. Third, inactivation of both receptors by pretreatment of cells with pertussis toxin did not affect the potentiation of cell growth by anandamide. These data demonstrated that neither CB1 nor CB2 receptors were involved in the anandamide-induced effect. Moreover, using CB2-transfected Chinese hamster ovary cells, we demonstrated that after complete blockade of the receptors by the specific antagonist SR 144528, anandamide was still able to strongly stimulate a mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase activity, clearly indicating that the endogenous cannabinoid can transduce a mitogenic signal in the absence of available receptors. Finally, arachidonic acid, a structurally related compound and an important lipid messenger without known affinity for cannabinoid receptors, was shown to trigger MAP kinase activity and cell growth enhancement similar to those observed with anandamide. These findings provide clear evidence for a functional role of anandamide in activating a signal transduction pathway leading to cell activation and proliferation via a non-cannabinoid receptor-mediated process.

Opposite effects on cytosolic Ca2+ of antitumor phospholipids by induction of calcium influx and activation of endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase

The ability of four different antitumor phospholipids, 1-O-hexadecyl-2-chloro-2-deoxyglycero-3-phosphocholine (ET16CIPC), hexadecylphosphocholine (C16OPC), hexadecylphospho-L-serine analogs (C16OPS, C16OPS-N-Ac) and cytidine-5'-hexadecylphosphonophosphate (C16PCMP) to modulate the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration [Ca2+]i was studied in an immortalized human mammary epithelial cell line H184 A1N4. The compounds induced different modes of activity depending on their structure and concentration. ET16CIPC induced between 0.31 and 5 microM a concentration dependent transient increase which was followed by a sustained increase at 10 microM. Studies using LaCl3 and Mn2+ quench of the Fura-2 fluorescence indicated that both effects are the result of an extracellular Ca2+ influx. Low concentrations of C16OPC, C16OPS and C16OPS-N-Ac induced no, or only a small, transient increase, whereas C16PCMP caused a decrease in [Ca2+]i. Thapsigargin and cyclopiazonic acid, specific inhibitors of the endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase, prolonged the transient [Ca2+]i increase following ET16CIPC concentration dependently, increased markedly the small transient increase following C16OPC and the C16-phosphoserine analogs and converted the decrease in the basal [Ca2+]i level induced by C16PCMP to an increase. The identical effects with thapsigargin and cyclopiazonic acid provide evidence that the [Ca2+]i response observed is an expression of the balance between the ability of an analog to raise [Ca2+]i and to remove Ca2+ by activation of the endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase. This behaviour might contribute to the antiproliferative effectiveness of antitumor phospholipids.

Oxidant-induced arachidonic acid release and impairment of fatty acid acylation in vascular smooth muscle cells

Oxidative damage, which plays a major role in the early stages of atherosclerosis, is associated with arachidonic acid (AA) release in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) as in other cell types. In this study, H2O2 was used to investigate mechanisms of AA release from VSMC on oxidative stress. Cell treatment with H2O2 inhibited AA incorporation in an inverse relationship to prolonged H2O2-induced AA release. Identical kinetics of inhibition of AA incorporation and AA release were observed after cell treatment with AlF4-, a process not involving phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activation as recently described (A. Cane, M. Breton, G. Béréziat, and O. Colard. Biochem. Pharmacol. 53: 327-337, 1997). AA release was not specific, since oleic acid also increased in the extracellular medium of cells treated with H2O2 or AlF4- as measured by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. In contrast, AA and oleic acid cell content decreased after cell treatment. Oleoyl and arachidonoyl acyl-CoA synthases and acyltransferases, assayed using a cell-free system, were not significantly modified. In contrast, a good correlation was observed between decreases in AA acylation and cell ATP content. The decrease in ATP content is only partially accounted for by mitochondrial damage as assayed by rhodamine 123 assay. We conclude that oxidant-induced arachidonate release results from impairment of fatty acid esterification and that ATP availability is probably responsible for free AA accumulation on oxidative stress by preventing its reesterification and/or transmembrane transport.

Effects of bradykinin on signal transduction, cell proliferation, and cytokine, prostaglandin E2 and collagenase-1 release from human corneal epithelial cells

1. We recently demonstrated the presence of phospholipase C-coupled bradykinin (BK) B2-receptors in human primary and SV40 virus-immortalized corneal epithelial (CEPI) cells. 2. The aims of the present studies were to demonstrate the specific binding of [3H]-BK to CEPI cell membranes and to study its pharmacological characteristics. In addition, we wished to study the functional coupling of the BK receptors to various physiological and pathological mechanisms in the CEPI cells, including phosphoinositide (PI) turnover, intracellular Ca2+-mobilization ([Ca2+]i), cell proliferation (via [3H]-thymidine incorporation), and the release of various cytokines, collagenase-1 (matrix metalloproteinase-1) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). 3. Specific [3H]-BK binding comprised 83 +/- 2% of the total binding, and was of high affinity (Kd = 1.66 +/- 0.52 nM, n = 5), saturable (Bmax = 640 +/- 154 fmol g(-1) wet weight) and reversible. Competition studies yielded the following affinity values for BK and a number of BK-related peptides: Hoe-140 (D-Arg-[Hyp3,Thi5,D-Tic7,Oic8]BK; icatibant): Ki = 0.17 +/- 0.07 nM; BK: Ki = 1.0 +/- 0.11 nM; [Tyr8]-BK: Ki = 12.9 +/- 2.3 nM; [des-Arg9]-BK: Ki > 9,200 nM (all n = 3-5)). 4. BK potently stimulated PI turnover (EC50 = 2.3 +/- 0.3 nM; n = 7) and [Ca2+]i mobilization (EC50 = 8-20 nM) in CEPI cells and both responses were inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner by 100 nM-10 microM Hoe-140, a selective B2-receptor antagonist, and also inhibited by the selective phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor, U73122 (1-(6-((17beta-3-methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17-yl)amino)hexyl)-1 H-pyrrole-2,5-dione) (IC50 = 3.0 +/- 1.6 microM). BK-induced [Ca2+]i mobilization was reduced by about 30% in the presence of 4 mM EGTA, but was not significantly affected by 100 nM nifedipine. 5. BK (0.1 nM-10 microM) significantly (P<0.05-0.001) stimulated [3H]-thymidine incorporation into CEPI cellular DNA. However, while interleukin-1alpha (IL-1alpha; 10 ng ml(-1)) potently stimulated the release of IL-6, IL-8 and granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor from CEPI cells, BK (0.1 nM-10 microM) was without effect. 6. Whilst phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA; 3 microg ml(-1)) and 10% foetal bovine serum (positive control agents) significantly stimulated the release of both MMP-1 and PGE2 from CEPI cells, BK (0.1 nM-10 microM) was without any significant effect under these conditions. 7. In conclusion, these data indicate that the CEPI cells express high-affinity [3H]-BK binding sites representing B2-subtype BK receptors coupled to PI turnover and [Ca2+]i mobilization which appear to stimulate [3H]-thymidine incorporation into cellular DNA. In contrast, BK failed to elicit the release of PGE2, various cytokines and MMP-1 from CEPI cells. These results suggest that BK may have a potential role in corneal epithelium wound healing by stimulating cell proliferation.

Ligation of the alpha2M signaling receptor with receptor-recognized forms of alpha2-macroglobulin initiates protein and DNA synthesis in macrophages. The effect of intracellular calcium

We have previously reported that receptor-recognized forms of the proteinase inhibitor alpha2-macroglobulin (alpha2M) bind to a distinct receptor (alpha2MSR), Kd approximately 50-100 pM, activating a signaling cascade, triggering tyrosine phosphorylation of phospholipase Cgamma1, and raising cytosolic pH. We have now studied the effects of alpha2M or a cloned and expressed receptor binding fragment (RBF) on protein and DNA synthesis by macrophages. A nearly linear increase in total protein and DNA synthesis was noted at ligand concentrations up to 100 pM; thereafter, synthesis plateaued. The increase (1.5-2-fold) in protein and DNA synthesis was similar to that observed with known growth factors such as epidermal growth factor and platelet derived growth factor. Mutants of RBF which bind well to alpha2MSR, also caused a similar increase in DNA synthesis. By contrast, mutant K1374R which binds poorly to alpha2MSR demonstrated much less of an effect on DNA synthesis. Chelation of intracellular Ca2+ drastically reduced protein and DNA synthesis induced by RBF or the human growth factors. These studies suggest that activation of native alpha2M, such as would occur during tissue injury, produces a molecule with properties which are similar to growth factors.

Recovery of Ca2+ pools and growth in Ca2+ pool-depleted cells is mediated by specific epoxyeicosatrienoic acids derived from arachidonic acid

Depletion of Ca2+ pools using the irreversible Ca2+ pump blocker, thapsigargin, induces DDT1MF-2 smooth muscle cells to enter a stable nonproliferative state. Reversal of this state can be mediated by high (20%) serum treatment, which induces new Ca2+ pump protein, return of Ca2+ pools, and reentry of cells into the cell cycle; the effect of serum can be mimicked by the essential fatty acids (EFA), arachidonic, linoleic, and alpha-linolenic acids (Graber, M.N., Alfonso, A., and Gill, D.L., (1996) J. Biol. Chem. 271, 883-888). The possible requirement for EFA metabolism in inducing recovery of Ca2+ pool-depleted growth-arrested cells was investigated. Neither cyclooxygenase or lipoxygenase inhibitors had any effect on arachidonic acid-induced growth recovery of thapsigargin-treated cells. In contrast, the cytochrome P-450 epoxygenase inhibitors, SKF525A and metyrapone, substantially reduced arachidonic acid-induced recovery of growth while having minimal effects on control cell growth. Both epoxygenase inhibitors completely prevented the arachidonic acid-induced recovery of bradykinin-releasable Ca2+-pumping pools, whereas cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase inhibitors had no effect. The effectiveness of the four cytochrome P-450 metabolites of arachidonic acid on recovery of Ca2+ pools were compared; 8,9- and 11,12-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (EET) at 1.5 microM were completely effective in recovering agonist-sensitive Ca2+ pools, whereas the 5,6- and 14,15-EETs were without effect. SKF525A did not block the action of 8,9- or 11, 12-EET indicating further P-450 metabolism was not required. Hydration of the active EET molecules prevented Ca2+ pool recovery since the dihydroxy-derivatives of both 8,9- and 11,12-EET were ineffective. The specificity of effectiveness among EET molecules for subsequent resumption of growth of thapsigargin-treated cells was the same as for Ca2+ pool recovery. Significantly, the P-450 inhibitors, SKF525A and metyrapone, both prevented the action of 20% serum in inducing recovery of thapsigargin-treated cells, whereas cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase inhibitors were ineffective, indicating that EFAs are the active component within serum that is responsible for recovery of Ca2+ pool-depleted cells. The specific action of EETs in mediating recovery of Ca2+ pools and growth of thapsigargin-treated cells represents not only a novel action of epoxygenase products from EFAs, but also a potentially significant new signaling pathway that may effect translational control and regulate transition from a stationary to proliferative growth state.

Arachidonic acid, a principal product of Rac-activated phospholipase A2, stimulates c-fos serum response element via Rho-dependent mechanism

Previously, we have reported that phospholipase A2 (PLA2) is one of the major downstream targets by which Rac GTPase mediates the activation of c-fos serum response element (SRE) in response to agonists such as EGF [FEBS Lett. 407 (1997) 7-12]. Thus, the potential activity of arachidonic acid (AA), a principal product of Rac-activated PLA2, on c-fos SRE stimulation has been suggested. Here, we provide evidence about the biological activity of AA on c-fos SRE activation. Further, we observed that co-transfection with expression plasmid of either RhoN19, a dominant negative RhoA mutant, or botulinum C3 transferase which inhibits Rho via ADP ribosylation, selectively repressed AA- or Rac-induced SRE activation, suggesting that Rho activity is critical for the signaling cascade of 'Rac-PLA2-AA' to c-fos SRE. Thus, Rac signaling to the nucleus appears to be, at least partly, mediated by a Rho-linked pathway and this Rac-Rho signaling connection is mediated by AA. In accordance with the role of Rho as a potential mediator of AA signaling to the nucleus, AA induces a rapid translocation of RhoA.

Arachidonic acid activates c-jun N-terminal kinase through NADPH oxidase in rabbit proximal tubular epithelial cells

In kidney epithelial cells, arachidonic acid and other fatty acids are important signal transduction molecules for G protein-coupled receptors. We now demonstrate that arachidonic acid induced a time- and dose-dependent activation of JNK, a member of the mitogen-activated protein kinase family, as assessed by phosphorylation of the transcription factor ATF-2. Increments in JNK activity were detectable at 5 microM arachidonic acid and plateaued at 30 microM. Activation was specific to arachidonic acid and linoleic acid, since other fatty acids of the n - 3 and n - 6 series and/or various degrees of saturation were without effect. Specific inhibitors of cyclooxygenase-, lipoxygenase-, and cytochrome P450-dependent metabolism did not affect arachidonic acid-induced JNK activity. We further demonstrated that the free radical scavenger N-acetylcysteine blocked arachidonic acid-induced JNK activation, while H(2)O(2), a reactive oxidative molecule, activated JNK in a dose-dependent manner, providing additional support for a redox mechanism. Moreover, arachidonic acid activated NADPH oxidase (EC 1.6.-.-, EC 1.6.99.-) in a dose-dependent manner, and the potency of superoxide generation paralleled that of JNK activation by other fatty acids. We conclude that in kidney epithelial cells arachidonic acid activates JNK by means of NADPH oxidase and superoxide generation, independent of eicosanoid biosynthesis.

Store-operated Ca2+ entry and coupling to Ca2+ pool depletion in thapsigargin-resistant cells

The release of Ca2+ from intracellular Ca2+ pumping pools and the entry of extracellular Ca2+ are tightly coupled events. The potent and specific intracellular Ca2+ pump inhibitor, thapsigargin, blocks Ca2+ accumulation and allows Ca2+ release from pools within mammalian cells, inducing major changes in endoplasmic reticulum function and cell growth. Recent studies characterized the pools of Ca2+ within permeabilized DC-3F/TG2 cells (a thapsigargin-resistant variant form of the DC-3F Chinese hamster lung fibroblast line, able to grow in 2 microM thapsigargin), revealing highly thapsigargin-resistant intracellular Ca2+ pumping activity capable of accumulating Ca2+ within an inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-releasable Ca2+ pool (Waldron, R. T., Short, A. D., and Gill, D. L. (1995) J. Biol. Chem. 270, 11955-11961). Using intact fura-2-loaded thapsigargin-resistant DC-3F/TG2 cells, the present study investigated the role of this unusual Ca2+ pumping activity in maintaining cytosolic Ca2+, generating Ca2+ signals, and mediating Ca2+ entry. The thapsigargin-resistant Ca2+ pumping pool was capable of generating rapid cytosolic Ca2+ signals in response to the phospholipase C-coupled agonist, oleoyl lysophosphatidic acid. The resting level of cytosolic Ca2+ in DC-3F/TG2 cells was 2-fold elevated compared with control cells (the parent DC-3F line), and transient extracellular Ca2+ removal induced a large "overshoot" in cytosolic Ca2+. The overshoot response was blocked by the Ca2+ influx inhibitor, SKF96365, and was kinetically identical to that induced in parent DC-3F cells after thapsigargin-induced Ca2+ pool emptying, indicating that the thapsigargin-resistant DC-3F/TG2 cells had "constitutively" opened Ca2+ entry channels coupled to an emptied or partially emptied thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ pumping pool. Even though oleoyl lysophosphatidic acid-mediated Ca2+ release induced little Ca2+ entry, complete ionomycin-activated emptying of the thapsigargin-resistant Ca2+ pool in DC-3F/TG2 cells induced a large, sustained entry of Ca2+ that was also completely blocked by SKF96365. The results revealed that the thapsigargin-resistant Ca2+ pump does maintain physiological Ca2+ levels, is able to fill an agonist-responsive Ca2+ pool in DC-3F/TG2 cells, and is likely responsible for the ability of these cells to function and grow in the presence of thapsigargin. In addition, Ca2+ influx in the resistant DC-3F/TG2 cells reflects emptying of pools that accumulate Ca2+ by both thapsigargin-sensitive and -resistant Ca2+ pumps; since these pumps accumulate Ca2+ in distinct pools in parent DC-3F cells, it is possible that more than one pool is coupled to Ca2+ influx in the resistant DC-3F/TG2 cells.

Determination of in situ dissociation constant for Fura-2 and quantitation of background fluorescence in astrocyte cell line U373-MG

Accurate estimates of cytosolic free Ca2+ with fluorescence indicators are dependent on the determination of the in situ dissociation constants (kd) of the intracellular dyes and the correction for background fluorescence. The in situ dissociation constant for Ca2+ and indicator dye Fura-2/AM varies significantly from the in vitro published values due to differences in ionic strength, pH, viscosity and Ca2+ buffering by intracellular lipids and proteins. During the course of a measurement, background fluorescence changes may occur as the result of endogenous fluorescent compounds and compartmentalized Fura-2 indicator. The in situ dissociation constant value was determined for human astrocyte cell line U373-MG by creating several known intracellular Ca2+ concentrations while measuring total fluorescence and background fluorescence values for each. The background fluorescence was not constant, rather it demonstrated a linear relationship with the free cytosolic Ca2+ concentrations and total fluorescence intensities. The Ca2+ dependent and total fluorescence dependent background was expressed as a linear equation and subtracted appropriately from the total intensity measurements. The in situ dissociation constant was determined to be 3-fold greater than in vitro measurements after the background was corrected. The experimentally determined standard linear equations for background quantitation and the in situ dissociation constant for this line produce accurate cytosolic free Ca2+ estimates.

Calcium pools, calcium entry, and cell growth

The Ca2+ pump and Ca2+ release functions of intracellular Ca2+ pools have been well characterized. However, the nature and identity of Ca2+ pools as well as the physiological implications of Ca2+ levels within them, have remained elusive. Ca2+ pools appear to be contained within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER); however, ER is a heterogeneous and widely distributed organelle, with numerous other functions than Ca2+ regulation. Studies described here center on trying to determine more about subcellular distribution of Ca2+ pools, the levels of Ca2+ within Ca2+ pools, and how these intraluminal Ca2+ levels may be physiologically related to ER function. Experiments utilizing in situ high resolution subcellular morphological analysis of ER loaded with ratiometric fluorescent Ca2+ dyes, indicate a wide distribution of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3)-sensitive Ca2+ pools within cells, and large changes in the levels of Ca2+ within pools following Insp3-mediated Ca2+ release. Such changes in Ca2+ may be of great significance to the translation, translocation, and folding of proteins in ER, in particular with respect to the function of the now numerously described luminal Ca(2+)-sensitive chaperonin proteins. Studies have also focussed on the physiological role of pool Ca2+ changes with respect to cell growth. Emptying of pools using Ca2+ pump blockers can result in cells entering a stable quiescent G(o)-like growth state. After treatment with the irreversible pump blocker, thapsigargin, cells remain in this state until they are stimulated with essential fatty acids whereupon new pump protein is synthesized, functional Ca2+ pools return, and cells re-enter the cell cycle. During the Ca2+ pool-depleted growth-arrested state, cells express a Ca2+ influx channel that is distinct from the store-operated Ca2+ influx channels activated after short-term depletion of Ca2+ pools. Overall, these studies indicate that significant changes in intraluminal ER Ca2+ do occur and that such changes appear linked to alteration of essential ER functions as well as to the cell cycle-state and the growth of cells.