Genomic organization and chromosomal assignment of the human beta1, 4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase gene. Identification of multiple transcription units

Possible regulation of ganglioside GD3 synthase gene expression with DNA methylation in human glioma cells

Gangliosides are expressed in nervous systems and some neuroectoderm-derived tumors at high levels and play pivotal roles. However, mechanisms for the regulation of glycosyltransferase genes responsible for the ganglioside synthesis are not well understood. In this study, we analyzed DNA methylation patterns of promoter regions of GD3 synthase (ST8SIA1) as well as mRNA levels and ganglioside expression using human glioma cell lines. Among 5 cell lines examined, 4 lines showed changes in the expression levels of related genes after treatment with 5-aza-dC. LN319 showed up-regulation of St8sia1 and increased b-series gangliosides after 5-aza-dC treatment, and an astrocytoma cell line, AS showed high expression of ST8SIA1 and b-series gangliosides persistently before and after 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine treatment. Using these 2 cell lines, DNA methylation patterns of the promoter regions of the gene were analyzed by bisulfite-sequencing. Consequently, 2 regions that were methylated before 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine treatment were demethylated in LN319 after the treatment, while those regions were persistently demethylated in AS. These 2 regions corresponded with sites defined as promoter regions by Luciferase assay. Taken together, it was suggested that ST8SIA1 gene is regulated by DNA methylation at the promoter regions, leading to the regulation of tumor phenotypes.

Functional validation of novel variants in B4GALNT1 associated with early-onset complex hereditary spastic paraplegia with impaired ganglioside synthesis

Childhood-onset forms of hereditary spastic paraplegia are ultra-rare diseases and often present with complex features. Next-generation-sequencing allows for an accurate diagnosis in many cases but the interpretation of novel variants remains challenging, particularly for missense mutations. Where sufficient knowledge of the protein function and/or downstream pathways exists, functional studies in patient-derived cells can aid the interpretation of molecular findings. We here illustrate the case of a 13-year-old female who presented with global developmental delay and later mild intellectual disability, progressive spastic diplegia, spastic-ataxic gait, dysarthria, urinary urgency, and loss of deep tendon reflexes of the lower extremities. Exome sequencing showed a novel splice-site variant in trans with a novel missense variant in B4GALNT1 [NM_001478.5: c.532-1G>C/c.1556G>C (p.Arg519Pro)]. Functional studies in patient-derived fibroblasts and cell models of GM2 synthase deficiency confirmed a loss of B4GALNT1 function with no synthesis of GM2 and other downstream gangliosides. Collectively these results established the diagnosis of B4GALNT1-associated HSP (SPG26). Our approach illustrates the importance of careful phenotyping and functional characterization of novel gene variants, particularly in the setting of ultra-rare diseases, and expands the clinical and molecular spectrum of SPG26, a disorder of complex ganglioside biosynthesis.

Analysis of the proximal promoter of the human colon-specific B4GALNT2 (Sda synthase) gene: B4GALNT2 is transcriptionally regulated by ETS1

BACKGROUND

The Sda antigen and corresponding biosynthetic enzyme B4GALNT2 are primarily expressed in normal colonic mucosa and are down-regulated to a variable degree in colon cancer tissues. Although their expression profile is well studied, little is known about the underlying regulatory mechanisms.

METHODS

To clarify the molecular basis of Sda expression in the human gastrointestinal tract, we investigated the transcriptional regulation of the human B4GALNT2 gene. The proximal promoter region was delineated using luciferase assays and essential trans-acting factors were identified through transient overexpression and silencing of several transcription factors.

RESULTS

A short cis-regulatory region restricted to the -72 to +12 area upstream of the B4GALNT2 short-type transcript variant contained the essential promoter activity that drives the expression of the human B4GALNT2 regardless of the cell type. We further showed that B4GALNT2 transcriptional activation mostly requires ETS1 and to a lesser extent SP1.

CONCLUSIONS

Results presented herein are expected to provide clues to better understand B4GALNT2 regulatory mechanisms.

In Silico Insights on GD2 : A Potential Target for Pediatric Neuroblastoma

Background:

Originating from the abnormal growth of neuroblasts, pediatric neuroblastoma affects the age group below 15 years. It is an aggressive heterogenous cancer with a high morbidity rate. Biological marker GD2 synthesised by the GD2 gene acts as a powerful predictor of neuroblastoma cells. GD2 gangliosides are sialic acid-containing glycosphingolipids. Differential expression during brain development governs the function of the GD2. The present study explains the interaction of the GD2 with its established inhibitors and discovers the compound having a high binding affinity against the target protein. Technically, during the development of new compounds through docking studies, the best drug among all pre-exist inhibitors was filtered. Hence in reference to the best docked compound, the study proceeded further.

Methodology:

The In silico approach provides a platform to determine and establish potential inhibitor against GD2 in Pediatric neuroblastoma. The 3D structure of GD2 protein was modelled by homology base fold methods using Smith-Watermans’ Local alignment. A total of 18 established potent compounds were subjected to molecular docking and Etoposide (CID: 36462) manifested the highest affinity. The similarity search presented 336 compounds similar to Etoposide.

Results:

Through virtual screening, the compound having PubChem ID 10254934 showed a better affinity towards GD2 than the established inhibitor. The comparative profiling of the two compounds based on various interactions such as H-bond interaction, aromatic interactions, electrostatic interactions and ADMET profiling and toxicity studies were performed using various computational tools.

Conclusion:

The docking separated the virtual screened drug (PubChemID: 10254934) from the established inhibitor with a better re-rank score of -136.33. The toxicity profile of the virtual screened drug was also lesser (less lethal) than the established drug. The virtual screened drug was observed to be bioavailable as it does not cross the blood-brain barrier. Conclusively, the virtual screened compound obtained in the present investigation is better than the established inhibitor and can be further augmented by In vitro analysis, pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetic studies.

TNFα-signal and cAMP-mediated signals oppositely regulate melanoma- associated ganglioside GD3 synthase gene in human melanocytes

Analyses of expression and regulation of ganglioside synthases in melanocytes are important to understand roles of gangliosides in melanomagenesis. In this study, we analyzed the expression and regulatory mechanisms of glycosyltransferase genes responsible for ganglioside synthesis in normal melanocytes. We reported previously that culture supernatants of UVB-irradiated keratinocytes induced upregulation of ganglioside GD3 synthase gene in melanocytes, and mainly TNFα was responsible for it. Then, we found that elimination of dibutyryl cyclic AMP and IBMX from the medium also resulted in upregulation of the GD3 synthase gene. The addition of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone which increases cAMP, to the medium led to a significant reduction in the GD3 synthase gene expression level, and a PKA inhibitor enhanced the GD3 synthase gene level. These results suggest that signals mediated via TNFα and cAMP oppositely regulate GD3 synthase gene expression in melanocytes. The results of an IKK inhibitor indicate the possibility that TNFα induces GD3 synthase gene expression via NF-κB signaling in melanocytes. When melanoma cells were treated by these factors, no fluctuation in the GD3 synthase gene expression level was observed, although an IKK inhibitor significantly suppressed it, suggesting that ganglioside synthase genes are regulated in distinct manners between melanocytes and melanomas.

Elevated histone H3 acetylation and loss of the Sp1-HDAC1 complex de-repress the GM2-synthase gene in renal cell carcinoma

GM2-synthase produces sialic acid-containing glycosphingolipids called gangliosides, and its mRNA overexpression and the gangliosides it generates are linked to tumor progression, migration, and suppression of tumor-specific host immune responses. However, the mechanism underlying GM2-synthase de-repression in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that higher GM2-synthase mRNA expression levels in various cancer cells and in human RCC tumors correlate with higher histone acetylation levels (H3K9, H3K14, or both) at region +38/+187 relative to the transcription start site (TSS) of the GM2-synthase gene than in normal kidney epithelial (NKE) cells or healthy adjacent tissues. An increase in GM2-synthase mRNA expression in cells treated with a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor was accompanied by increased histone acetylation levels at this promoter region. DNA methylation around the TSS was absent in both RCC cell lines and NKE cells. Of note, both the transcription factor Sp1 and corepressor HDAC1 associated with the +38/+187 region when the GM2-synthase gene was repressed in NKE and tumor-adjacent tissues, indicating plausible site-specific repressive roles of HDAC1 and Sp1 in GM2-synthase mRNA expression. Site-directed mutagenesis of the Sp1-binding site within the +38/+187 region relieved repressed luciferase activity of this region by limiting HDAC1 recruitment. Moreover, Sp1 or HDAC1 knock down increased GM2-synthase transcription, and butyrate-mediated activation of GM2-synthase mRNA expression in SK-RC-45 cells was accompanied by Sp1 and HDAC1 loss from the +38/+187 region. Taken together, we have identified an epigenetic mechanism for the de-repression of the GM2-synthase gene in RCC.

Loss of Enzyme Activity in Mutated B4GALNT1 Gene Products in Patients with Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia Results in Relatively Mild Neurological Disorders: Similarity with Phenotypes of B4galnt1 Knockout Mice

B4GALNT1 is an enzyme essential for the synthesis of complex gangliosides, whose absence leads to progressive neurodegeneration with aging in mice. Recently, eleven cases of hereditary spastic paraplegia with mutation in the coding region of B4GALNT1 were reported. However, changes in the enzymatic activity of their products have never been studied. We have constructed expression vectors for individual mutant cDNAs, and examined their activities by cell-free in vitro enzyme assays, and flow cytometry of cells transfected with their expression vectors. Among them, almost all mutant genes showed the complete loss of B4GALNT1 activity in both the in vitro enzyme assays and flow cytometry. Two mutants exceptionally showed weak activity. One of them, M4, had a mutation at amino acid 228 with a premature termination codon. Interestingly, the intensity of fluorescence of GM2 measured by flow cytometry was equivalent between the WT and M4 mutant, although the positive cell population was relatively small in M4. Western immunoblotting of cell lysates from transfectants with cDNA plasmids revealed 67-kDa bands except those containing premature termination codons or frame-shift mutation. Taken together with the clinical findings of patients, loss of enzyme activity may be responsible for the clinical features of hereditary spastic paraplegia, whereas the intensity of neurological disorders was relatively milder than expected. These clinical features of patients including those with male hypogonadism are very similar to the abnormal phenotypes detected in B4galnt1-deficient mice.

Anti-GD2 immunotherapy for neuroblastoma

INTRODUCTION

Current therapeutic approaches for high-risk neuroblastoma (HR-NB) include high-dose chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy; interventions that are associated with long and short-term toxicities. Effective immunotherapy holds particular promise for improving survival and quality of life by reducing exposure to cytotoxic agents. GD2, a surface glycolipid is the most common target for immunotherapy. Areas covered: We review the status of anti-GD2 immunotherapies currently in clinical use for neuroblastomas and novel GD2-targeted strategies in preclinical development. Expert commentary: Anti-GD2 monoclonal antibodies are associated with improved survival in patients in their first remission and are increasingly being used for chemorefractory and relapsed neuroblastoma. As protein engineering technology has become more accessible, newer antibody constructs are being tested. GD2 is also being targeted by natural killer cells and T-cells. Active immunity can be elicited by anti-GD2 vaccines. The rational combination of currently available and soon-to-emerge immunotherapeutic approaches, and their integration into conventional multimodality therapies will require further investigation to optimize their use for HR-NB.

Identification of a new B4GalNAcT1 (GM2/GD2/GA2 synthase) isoform, and regulation of enzyme stability and intracellular transport by arginine-based motif

Glycosphingolipids (GSLs) are abundant in plasma membranes of mammalian cells, and their synthesis is strictly regulated in the Golgi apparatus. Disruption of GSL homeostasis is the cause of numerous diseases. Hundreds of molecular species of GSLs exist, and the detailed mechanisms underlying their homeostasis remain unclear. We investigated the physiological significance of isoform production for β1,4-N-acetyl-galactosaminyl transferase 1/B4GALNT1 (B4GN1), an enzyme involved in synthesis of ganglio-series GSLs GM2/GD2/GA2. We discovered a new mRNA variant (termed variant 2) of B4GN1 through EST clone search. A new isoform, M1-B4GN1, which has an NH₂-terminal cytoplasmic tail longer than that of previously-known isoform M2-B4GN1, is translated from variant 2. M1-B4GN1 has R-based motif (a retrograde transport signal) in the cytoplasmic tail. M1-B4GN1 is partially localized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) depending on the R-based motif, whereas M2-B4GN1 is localized in the Golgi. Stability of M1-B4GN1 is higher than that of M2-B4GN1 because of the R-based motif. M2-B4GN1 forms a homodimer via disulfide bonding. When M1-B4GN1 and M2-B4GN1 were co-expressed in CHO-K1 cells, the two isoforms formed a heterodimer. The M1/M2-B4GN1 heterodimer was more stable than the M2-B4GN1 homodimer, but the heterodimer was not transported from the Golgi to the ER. Our findings indicate that stabilization of M1-B4GN1 homodimer and M1/M2-B4GN1 heterodimer by R-based motif is related to prolongation of Golgi retention, but not to retrograde transport from the Golgi to the ER. Coexistence of several B4GN1 isoforms having distinctive characteristics presumably helps maintain overall enzyme stability and GSL homeostasis.

Targeting O-Acetyl-GD2 Ganglioside for Cancer Immunotherapy

Target selection is a key feature in cancer immunotherapy, a promising field in cancer research. In this respect, gangliosides, a broad family of structurally related glycolipids, were suggested as potential targets for cancer immunotherapy based on their higher abundance in tumors when compared with the matched normal tissues. GD2 is the first ganglioside proven to be an effective target antigen for cancer immunotherapy with the regulatory approval of dinutuximab, a chimeric anti-GD2 therapeutic antibody. Although the therapeutic efficacy of anti-GD2 monoclonal antibodies is well documented, neuropathic pain may limit its application. O-Acetyl-GD2, the O-acetylated-derivative of GD2, has recently received attention as novel antigen to target GD2-positive cancers. The present paper examines the role of O-acetyl-GD2 in tumor biology as well as the available preclinical data of anti-O-acetyl-GD2 monoclonal antibodies. A discussion on the relevance of O-acetyl-GD2 in chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy development is also included.

Dinutuximab for the treatment of pediatric patients with high-risk neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extra cranial solid tumor of childhood, with 60% of patients presenting with high risk (HR) NB by means of clinical, pathological and biological features. The 5-year survival rate for HR-NB remains below 40%, with the majority of patients suffering relapse from chemorefractory tumor. Immunotherapy is the main strategy against minimal residual disease and clinical experience has mostly focused on monoclonal antibodies (MoAb) against the glycolipid disialoganglioside GD2. Three anti-GD2 antibodies have been tested in the clinic including murine 14G2a, human-mouse chimeric ch14.18 and 3F8. Anti-GD2 MoAb induces cellular cytoxicity against NB and is most effective when effector cells like natural killer cells, granulocytes and macrophages are amplified by cytokines. The combination of cytokines IL-2 and GM-CSF with the anti-GD2 MoAb ch14.18 (Dinutuximab) has shown a significant improvement in outcome for HR-NB. The FDA and EMA approved dinutuximab (Unituxin(R)) in 2015 for the treatment of patients with HR-NB who achieved at least a partial response after multimodality therapy.

The expanding roles of the Sd(a)/Cad carbohydrate antigen and its cognate glycosyltransferase B4GALNT2

BACKGROUND

The histo-blood group antigens are carbohydrate structures present in tissues and body fluids, which contribute to the definition of the individual immunophenotype. One of these, the Sd(a) antigen, is expressed on the surface of erythrocytes and in secretions of the vast majority of the Caucasians and other ethnic groups.

SCOPE OF REVIEW

We describe the multiple and unsuspected aspects of the biology of the Sd(a) antigen and its biosynthetic enzyme β1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 2 (B4GALNT2) in various physiological and pathological settings.

MAJOR CONCLUSIONS

The immunodominant sugar of the Sd(a) antigen is a β1,4-linked N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc). Its cognate glycosyltransferase B4GALNT2 displays a restricted pattern of tissue expression, is regulated by unknown mechanisms - including promoter methylation, and encodes at least two different proteins, one of which with an unconventionally long cytoplasmic portion. In different settings, the Sd(a) antigen plays multiple and unsuspected roles. 1) In colon cancer, its dramatic down-regulation plays a potential role in the overexpression of sialyl Lewis antigens, increasing metastasis formation. 2) It is involved in the lytic function of murine cytotoxic T lymphocytes. 3) It prevents the development of muscular dystrophy in various dystrophic murine models, when overexpressed in muscular fibers. 4) It regulates the circulating half-life of the von Willebrand factor (vWf), determining the onset of a bleeding disorder in a murine model.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

The expression of the Sd(a) antigen has a wide impact on the physiology and the pathology of different biological systems.

Functional roles of gangliosides in neurodevelopment: an overview of recent advances

Gangliosides are sialic acid-containing glycosphingolipids that are most abundant in the nervous system. They are localized primarily in the outer leaflets of plasma membranes and participated in cell-cell recognition, adhesion, and signal transduction and are integral components of cell surface microdomains or lipid rafts along with proteins, sphingomyelin and cholesterol. Ganglioside-rich lipid rafts play an important role in signaling events affecting neural development and the pathogenesis of certain diseases. Disruption of gangloside synthase genes in mice induces developmental defects and neural degeneration. Targeting ganglioside metabolism may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for intervention in certain diseases. In this review, we focus on recent advances on metabolic and functional studies of gangliosides in normal brain development and in certain neurological disorders.

Histone acetylation-mediated glycosyltransferase gene regulation in mouse brain during development

Gangliosides are sialic acid-containing glycosphingolipids abundant in the central nervous tissues. The quantity and expression pattern of gangliosides in brain change drastically during early development and are mainly regulated through stage-specific expression of glycosyltransferase (ganglioside synthase) genes. It is still unclear, however, how the transcriptional activation of glycosyltransferase genes is regulated during development. In this study, we investigated the epigenetic regulation of two key glycosyltransferases, N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase I (GA2/GM2/GD2/GT2-synthase) and sialyltransferase II (GD3-synthase), in embryonic, postnatal, and adult mouse brains. Combined bisulfite restriction analysis assay showed that DNA methylation in the 5' regions of these glycosyltransferase genes was not associated with their expression patterns. On the other hand, chromatin immunoprecipitation assay of both glycosyltransferase genes showed that their histone H3 acetylation was highly correlated to their mRNA expression levels during development. In fact, we confirmed that the expression patterns of gangliosides and glycosyltransferases in neuroepithelial cells were changed after treatment with a histone deacetylase inhibitor, sodium butyrate. Our studies provide the first evidence that efficient histone acetylation of the glycosyltransferase genes in mouse brain contributes to the developmental alteration of ganglioside expression.

Role of mitochondria in beta-cell function and dysfunction

Pancreatic beta-cells are poised to sense glucose and other nutrient secretagogues to regulate insulin exocytosis, thereby maintaining glucose homeostasis. This process requires translation of metabolic substrates into intracellular messengers recognized by the exocytotic machinery. Central to this metabolism-secretion coupling, mitochondria integrate and generate metabolic signals, thereby connecting glucose recognition to insulin exocytosis. In response to a glucose rise, nucleotides and metabolites are generated by mitochondria and participate, together with cytosolic calcium, to the stimulation of insulin release. This review describes the mitochondrion-dependent pathways of regulated insulin secretion. Mitochondrial defects, such as mutations and reactive oxygen species production, are discussed in the context of beta-cell failure that may participate to the etiology of diabetes.

Glycosyltransferase B4GALNT1 and type 1 diabetes in Croatian population: clinical investigation

OBJECTIVES

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease characterized by destruction of pancreatic beta cells. Gangliosides are thought to be a target of a variety of anti-islet autoantibodies. The formation of gangliosides is catalyzed by addition of sugar residues to complex glycoconjugate molecules by glycosyltransferases. Beta-1,4-N-acetyl-galactosaminyl transferase 1 is the enzyme involved in the synthesis of asialo, a, b and c-series gangliosides and it is coded by B4GALNT1 gene.

DESIGN AND METHODS

We genotyped 2 B4GALNT1 tagSNPs, designed to capture 100% of common variation in the region, in 202 families and 199 controls from the Croatian population.

RESULTS

Transmission disequilibrium test and case-control analysis did not detect an association of B4GALNT1 gene with T1DM.

CONCLUSIONS

Expression of gangliosides requires coordinated work of many genes. There is enough evidence showing that gangliosides are plausible contributors to T1DM pathological processes and, therefore, future studies on different glycosyltransferase genes are necessary.

Useful markers for detecting minimal residual disease in cases of neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma (NB), which is a malignant tumor of young children derived from neural crest cells that occurs in children, exhibits a wide range of clinical behaviors, from spontaneous regression to rapid progression. Advanced NB patients have a poor prognosis, and recently, autologous bone marrow transplantation (BMT) and autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT) have been attempted to improve the prognosis of these patients. In this study, we attempted to detect the expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), neuroendocrine protein gene product (PGP) 9.5, ELAVL-4 and GD2 synthetase (GALGT), all of which are highly expressed in NBs, by the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique in order to detect minimal residual disease (MRD) in the bone marrow (BM) and peripheral blood (PB). Analysis of various tumor cell lines (Ewing's sarcoma, hepatoma, leukemias, and breast cancer cell lines in addition to NBs), and human normal samples (BM and PB cells) revealed that TH was the most specific marker for the detection of NB. On the other hand, PGP9.5 was the most sensitive marker, and was detected even when there was only one positive cell per 10(7) negative cells. We concluded that TH is a better marker before the diagnosis of NB while PGP9.5 is a better marker to detect MRD after the diagnosis. Here, we describe our results on useful markers to detect MRD in patients with NB.

Cloning and transcriptional regulation of genes responsible for synthesis of gangliosides

Ganglioside synthases are glycosyltransferases involved in the biosynthesis of glycoconjugates. A number of ganglioside synthase genes have been cloned and characterized. They are classified into different families of glycosyltransferases based on similarities of their amino acid sequences. Tissue-specific expression of these genes has been analyzed by hybridization using cDNA fragments. Enzymatic characterization with the expressed recombinant enzymes showed these enzymes differ in their donor and acceptor substrate specificities and other biochemical parameters. In vitro enzymatic analysis also showed that one linkage can be synthesized by multiple enzymes and one enzyme may be responsible for synthesis of multiple gangliosides. Following the cloning of the ganglioside synthase genes, the promoters of the key synthase genes in the ganglioside biosynthetic pathway have been cloned and analyzed. All of the promoters are TATA-less, lacking a CCAAT box but containing GC-rich boxes, characteristic of the house-keeping genes, although transcription of ganglioside synthase genes is subject to complex developmental and tissue-specific regulation. A set of cis-acting elements and transcription factors, including Sp1, AP2, and CREB, function in the proximal promoters. Negative-regulatory regions have also been defined in most of the promoters. We present here an overview of these genes and their transcriptional regulation.

A transgenic model to study the pathogenesis of somatic mtDNA mutation accumulation in beta-cells

Low levels of somatic mutations accumulate in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) as we age; however, the pathogenic nature of these mutations is unknown. In contrast, mutational loads of >30% of mtDNA are associated with electron transport chain defects that result in mitochondrial diseases such as mitochondrial encephalopathy lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes. Pancreatic beta-cells may be extremely sensitive to the accumulation of mtDNA mutations, as insulin secretion requires the mitochondrial oxidation of glucose to CO(2). Type 2 diabetes arises when beta-cells fail to compensate for the increased demand for insulin, and many type 2 diabetics progress to insulin dependence because of a loss of beta-cell function or beta-cell death. This loss of beta-cell function/beta-cell death has been attributed to the toxic effects of elevated levels of lipids and glucose resulting in the enhanced production of free radicals in beta-cells. mtDNA, localized in close proximity to one of the major cellular sites of free radical production, comprises more than 95% coding sequences such that mutations result in changes in the coding sequence. It has long been known that mtDNA mutations accumulate with age; however, only recently have studies examined the influence of somatic mtDNA mutation accumulation on disease pathogenesis. This article will focus on the effects of low-level somatic mtDNA mutation accumulation on ageing, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Disialoganglioside directed immunotherapy of neuroblastoma

Achieving a cure for metastatic neuroblastoma remains a challenge despite sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Most patients achieve remission, but a failure to eliminate minimal residual disease (MRD) often leads to relapse. Immunotherapy is potentially useful for chemotherapy-resistant disease and may be particularly effective for low levels of MRD that are below the threshold for detection by routine radiological and histological methods. Disialoganglioside (GD2), a surface glycolipid antigen that is ubiquitous and abundant on neuroblastoma cells is an ideal target for immunotherapy. Anti-GD2 monoclonal antibodies currently form the mainstay of neuroblastoma immunotherapy and their safety profile has been well-established. Although responses in patients with gross disease have been observed infrequently, histologic responses of bone marrow disease are consistently achieved in >75 percent of patients with primary refractory neuroblastoma. The advent of highly sensitive and specific molecular assays to measure MRD has confirmed the efficacy anti-GD2 antibody immunotherapy in patients with subclinical disease. Such markers will allow further optimization of other anti-MRD therapies. We review the current status of anti-GD2 clinical trials for neuroblastoma and novel preclinical GD2-targeted strategies for this rare but often lethal childhood cancer.

Potential Application of ELAVL4 Real-Time Quantitative Reverse Transcription-PCR for Detection of Disseminated Neuroblastoma Cells

Background: Reliable detection of neuroblastoma cells in bone marrow (BM) is critical because BM involvement influences staging, risk assessment, and evaluation of therapeutic response in neuroblastoma patients. Standard cytomorphologic examination of BM aspirates is sensitive enough to detect single tumor cells. Consequently, more sensitive and specific detection methods are indispensable.

Methods: We used real-time quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (QPCR) of the tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), GD2 synthetase (GALGT), and embryonic lethal, abnormal vision, Drosophila-like 4 (ELAVL4) genes to detect disseminated neuroblastoma cells. We assessed assay sensitivity by addition experiments and then analyzed 97 neuroblastic tumor, BM, peripheral blood (PB), or peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) samples from 30 patients. The QPCR results were compared with those of a standardized immunocytochemical assay.

Results: The molecular markers were highly expressed in all evaluated tumor samples. In addition, 32%, 11%, and 38% of all BM, PB, and PBSC samples scored positive for TH, GALGT, or ELAVL4, respectively. The TH and ELAVL4 assays could detect 1 neuroblastoma cell in 106 mononuclear cells. By contrast, the GALGT QPCR assay could detect 1 neuroblastoma cell in 104 mononuclear cells. We assessed the potential prognostic value of TH, GALGT, and ELAVL4 QPCR by analyzing subsequent samples from 3 patients with stage 4 disease. Preliminary results indicated that persistence of high ELAVL4 expression has prognostic value.

Conclusions: ELAVL4 QPCR can be used to detect residual neuroblastoma cells in clinical samples. However, combination of several molecular markers and screening techniques should be considered to ensure reliable detection of rare neuroblastoma cells.

Regulation of ganglioside biosynthesis in the nervous system

Ganglioside biosynthesis is strictly regulated by the activities of glycosyltransferases and is necessarily controlled at the levels of gene transcription and posttranslational modification. Cells can switch between expressing simple and complex gangliosides or between different series within these two groups during brain development. The sequential biosynthesis of gangliosides in parallel enzymatic pathways, however, requires fine-tuned subcellular sequestration and orchestration of glycosyltransferases. A popular model predicts that this regulation is achieved by the vectorial organization of ganglioside biosynthesis: sequential biosynthetic steps occur with the traffic of ganglioside intermediates through subsequent subcellular compartments. Here, we review current models for the subcellular distribution of glycosyltransferases and discuss results that suggest a critical role of N-glycosylation for the processing, transport, and complex formation of these enzymes. In this context, we attempt to illustrate the regulation of ganglioside biosynthesis as well as the biological significance of N-glycosylation as a posttranslational regulatory mechanism. We also review the results of analyses of the 5' regulatory sequences of several glycosyltransferases in ganglioside biosynthesis and provide insights into how their synthesis can be regulated at the level of transcription.

Early molecular response of marrow disease to biologic therapy is highly prognostic in neuroblastoma

PURPOSE

A promising treatment strategy for stage 4 neuroblastoma patients is the repeated application of anti-GD2 immunotherapy after activating myeloid effectors with granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). To use early marrow response as a prognostic marker is particularly relevant for patients not likely to benefit from this therapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eighty-six stage 4 neuroblastoma patients older than 1 year at diagnosis were classified in four clinical groups on protocol entry: complete remission or very good partial remission (n = 33), primary refractory (n = 33), secondary refractory (n = 10), and progressive disease (n = 10). Bone marrow samples collected before and following treatment were assayed for GD2 synthase mRNA by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Response and survival analyses were performed on posttreatment samples before the third cycle at 1.8 months from protocol entry.

RESULTS

GD2 synthase mRNA was evident in pretreatment marrow samples of the four clinical groups (42%, 52%, 60%, and 80% of samples, respectively), with median transcript level of 10.0, 16.6, 26.5, and 87.2, respectively. This marker became negative following antibody plus GM-CSF in 77% of complete remission or very good partial remission, 45% of primary refractory, 25% of secondary refractory, and 0% of progressive disease group. Progression-free survival was statistically different between responder and nonresponder groups (P <.0001). Among patients with minimal residual disease, molecular responders had a significantly lower risk of disease progression at a median follow-up of 29.8 months (P =.0001).

CONCLUSION

GD2 synthase mRNA is a sensitive response marker of neuroblastoma in the bone marrow. It is particularly useful for minimal residual disease evaluation and may potentially be useful as an early predictor of resistance to antibody plus GM-CSF immunotherapy.

Molecular cloning, gene organization and expression of the human UDP-GalNAc:Neu5Acalpha2-3Galbeta-R beta1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase responsible for the biosynthesis of the blood group Sda/Cad antigen: evidence for an unusual extended cytoplasmic domain

The nucleotide sequence of the short and long transcripts of beta1,4- N -acetylgalactosaminyltransferase have been submitted to the DDBJ, EMBL, GenBank(R) and GSDB Nucleotide Sequence Databases under accession nos AJ517770 and AJ517771 respectively. The human Sd(a) antigen is formed through the addition of an N -acetylgalactosamine residue via a beta1,4-linkage to a sub-terminal galactose residue substituted with an alpha2,3-linked sialic acid residue. We have taken advantage of the previously cloned mouse cDNA sequence of the UDP-GalNAc:Neu5Acalpha2-3Galbeta-R beta1,4- N -acetylgalactosaminyltransferase (Sd(a) beta1,4GalNAc transferase) to screen the human EST and genomic databases and to identify the corresponding human gene. The sequence spans over 35 kb of genomic DNA on chromosome 17 and comprises at least 12 exons. As judged by reverse transcription PCR, the human gene is expressed widely since it is detected in various amounts in almost all cell types studied. Northern blot analysis indicated that five Sd(a) beta1,4GalNAc transferase transcripts of 8.8, 6.1, 4.7, 3.8 and 1.65 kb were highly expressed in colon and to a lesser extent in kidney, stomach, ileum and rectum. The complete coding nucleotide sequence was amplified from Caco-2 cells. Interestingly, the alternative use of two first exons, named E1(S) and E1(L), leads to the production of two transcripts. These nucleotide sequences give rise potentially to two proteins of 506 and 566 amino acid residues, identical in their sequence with the exception of their cytoplasmic tail. The short form is highly similar (74% identity) to the mouse enzyme whereas the long form shows an unusual long cytoplasmic tail of 66 amino acid residues that is as yet not described for any other mammalian glycosyltransferase. Upon transient transfection in Cos-7 cells of the common catalytic domain, a soluble form of the protein was obtained, which catalysed the transfer of GalNAc residues to alpha2,3-sialylated acceptor substrates, to form the GalNAcbeta1-4[Neu5Acalpha2-3]Galbeta1-R trisaccharide common to both Sd(a) and Cad antigens.

Isolation and functional analysis of the melanoma specific promoter region of human GD3 synthase gene

Human GD3 synthase gene consisted of five exons and span about 135 kilobases. The 5'-flanking region lacked canonical TATA and CAAT boxes, but contained SP1 binding site(s) as in rat and mouse. The promoter activity in the 5'-flanking region (-2262 approximately +1) became definite when SV40 enhancer was added to the reporter plasmid. Luciferase assay with deletion mutants suggested the existence of a silencer region between -2262 and -978 nt similarly with those in mouse and rat. They also commonly contained a GT/CG repeat sequence at upstream of -1200 approximately -1300 nt, suggesting that they form Z-type DNA, and are involved in the gene regulation.

Quantitation of GD2 synthase mRNA by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction: clinical utility in evaluating adjuvant therapy in neuroblastoma

PURPOSE

Minimal residual disease (MRD) is one of the final hurdles to cancer cure. Because therapy (myeloablation, immunotherapy, or differentiation) for MRD is applied at the time of clinical remission, objective surrogate markers are needed to gauge treatment efficacy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Using quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) of GD2 synthase (beta1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase, EC 2.4.1.92) mRNA, we evaluated MRD response to anti-GD2 monoclonal antibody 3F8 adjuvant therapy, namely, one cycle of radioimmunotherapy using iodine-131 ((131)I)-3F8 plus one cycle of unlabeled 3F8 in 45 stage 4 neuroblastoma patients (newly diagnosed or without prior relapse) on the N7 protocol at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. The prognostic effect of MRD in their bone marrows before and after this phase of adjuvant therapy on progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) was also analyzed.

RESULTS

Before 3F8 treatment, 24 of 45 patients were in complete remission (CR), 12 were in very good partial remission (VGPR), and nine were in partial remission (PR), according to criteria from International Neuroblastoma Staging System plus (131)I-3F8 scan; 71% had detectable tumor cells in marrow by real-time RT-PCR. Of the 32 positive patients, 20 became negative after therapy, with a 63% efficacy. When patients were stratified by CR/VGPR versus PR, GD2 synthase positivity was prognostic when detected before 3F8-targeted therapy (PFS, P =.045 and OS, P =.010). Persistent marker positivity was also predictive of PFS (P =.035) and OS (P =.027). Patients who succumbed to the disease had transcript levels four times higher than those who remain alive.

CONCLUSION

GD2 synthase mRNA is a useful surrogate marker for evaluating adjuvant treatment efficacy in neuroblastoma with prognostic potential.

Beta1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase--GM2/GD2 synthase: a key enzyme to control the synthesis of brain-enriched complex gangliosides

Beta1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase (GM2/GD2 synthase) is a key enzyme which catalyzes the conversion of GM3, GD3 and lactosylceramide (LacCer) to GM2, GD2 and asialo-GM2 (GA2), respectively. This step is critical for the synthesis of all complex gangliosides enriched in the nervous system of vertebrates. Following the cloning of cDNAs encoding GM2/GD2 synthase by an expression cloning approach, substantial evidence for the roles of complex gangliosides have been obtained. Above all, knock-out mice lacking all complex gangliosides revealed important roles of complex gangliosides in vivo, i.e., in the maintenance and repair of nervous tissues, in the intact differentiation of spermatocytes via the transport of testosterone, and in the regulation of interleukin-2 receptor complex. Molecular mechanisms for these functions of complex gangliosides in vivo remain to be clarified.

Quantitation of GD2 synthase mRNA by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction: utility in bone marrow purging of neuroblastoma by anti-GD2 antibody 3F8

BACKGROUND

Antigen ganglioside GD2 is expressed abundantly on neuroblastoma (NB) cells. Anti-GD2 monoclonal antibody (MoAb) 3F8 kills NB cells by complement-dependent cytotoxicity and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. Its utility in bone marrow (BM) purging is evaluated by a real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay to quantify the mRNA of GD2 synthase, the key enzyme in GD2 synthesis.

METHODS

From 1990 to 1993, 10 patients with relapsed/refractory Stage 4 NB participated in a pilot study. In these patients, MoAb 3F8 was used to purge tumor cells from harvested BM that had 5% or less tumor content by immunofluorescence (IF). Subsequently, 31 Stage 4 NB patients who underwent treatment on the N7 protocol (1994-1999) had their BM, which was in remission, purged by 3F8 before (131)I-3F8 myeloablative radioimmunotherapy. GD2-positive tumor cells before and after purging were quantified by real-time quantitative RT-PCR of GD2 synthase.

RESULTS

GD2 positivity by IF was found before purging in six of eight patients in the pilot study. Five of six patients became negative postpurging. Of 31 patients on the N7 protocol, the more sensitive real-time quantitative RT-PCR detected GD2 synthase mRNA in the BM samples of 7 patients even though the prepurge BM samples were negative by histology and IF. Six of the seven BM samples became negative after 3F8 purging. Marker positivity before purging was statistically significant in predicting overall survival (P = 0.04), but not progression-free survival (P = 0.1). In vitro hematopoietic stem cell recovery and the median time to engraftment were acceptable.

CONCLUSION

Tumor cell depletion quantified by real-time RT-PCR demonstrated efficacy of MoAb 3F8 in BM purging.

Mitochondrial diabetes mellitus

This review discusses the current insight by which mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) contribute to the development of particular disease states with emphasis on diabetes mellitus. Mitochondria are the power factories of the cells and produce ATP by oxidizing reducing equivalents via the respiratory chain. These reducing equivalents originate mainly from the citric acid cycle that also occurs within the mitochondria. Human mitochondria contain their own genetic material in the form of circular DNA that encodes for only a fraction of the mitochondrial components. The other mitochondrial components are nuclear encoded. Pathogenic mutations in mtDNA can affect the activity of the respiratory chain, thereby leading to the reduced generation of ATP. However, mitochondria not only produce ATP but they also regulate cytosolic concentrations of signaling molecules such as calcium and iron ions. The metabolic processes within mitochondria such as the citric acid cycle determine the concentration of metabolites that can also act as signalling molecules. Furthermore, the respiratory chain and mitochondrion-associated monoamine oxidase are major producers of reactive oxygen radicals. As a result, mutations in mtDNA can deregulate multiple processes within cells and the balance of this deregulation may contribute to the clinical phenotype.

b-series Ganglioside deficiency exhibits no definite changes in the neurogenesis and the sensitivity to Fas-mediated apoptosis but impairs regeneration of the lesioned hypoglossal nerve

The polymorphic carbohydrate structures of gangliosides play regulatory roles. In particular, b-series gangliosides, all of which contain alpha-2,8 sialic acids, have been considered to be critical in various biological events such as adhesion, toxin binding, neurite extension, cell growth, and apoptosis. To clarify the physiological functions of b-series gangliosides in vivo, we have established a gene knockout mouse of GD3 synthase. Although all b-series structures were deleted in the mutant mice, they showed an almost complete nervous tissue morphology with no apparent abnormal behavior. Moreover, no differences in Fas-mediated apoptotic reaction of lymphocytes between wild type and the mutant mice were detected. However, the mutant mice exhibited clearly reduced regeneration of axotomized hypoglossal nerves compared with the wild type, suggesting that b-series gangliosides are more important in the repair rather than in the differentiation of the nervous system and apoptotic process induced via Fas.

GD2 synthase: a new molecular marker for detecting neuroblastoma

BACKGROUND

Neuroblastomas (NBs) almost ubiquitously express the ganglioside GD2. GD2 synthesis is dependent on the key enzyme GD2 synthase. Thus, GD2 synthase transcript may prove to be a potential molecular marker of NB.

METHODS

Seventy-seven NB tumor tissues of all stages, 5 NB cell lines, and 26 normal bone marrows (BMs) and peripheral blood (PBL) samples, as well as 26 non-NB remission-BMs were analyzed for the expression of GD2 synthase by a highly sensitive reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and chemiluminescence detection. One hundred fifty-two NB BMs were tested and comparisons were made among three independent detection techniques, namely GD2 synthase RT-PCR, immunofluorescence (IF), and histology (HIST).

RESULTS

GD2 synthase transcript was present in 5 of 5 cell lines and in 77 of 77 tumors tested. Among 116 marrows that were positive by at least 1 of the 3 methods, 78% were detectable by GD2 synthase, 68% by IF, and 46% by HIST. Seventy-six percent of positive BMs that were obtained during treatment and follow-up had GD2 synthase expression, whereas only 29% were HIST positive. Correlation between RT-PCR and IF was high (P = 0.001), and positivity by 3 out of 3 methods was strongly correlated with poor survival (P < 0.01). Of note, marrows tested at the time of chemotherapy were positive by at least 2 out of 3 methods and were associated with adverse outcome (P = 0.01). Serial samples (n = 28) in 5 patients demonstrated close agreement between RT-PCR and patient disease status.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study found that molecular detection of GD2 synthase transcript in NB BMs may have potential value in detecting rare tumor cells.

GM2 ganglioside regulates the function of ciliary neurotrophic factor receptor in murine immortalized motor neuron-like cells (NSC-34)

We previously reported that ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) increased the serum-free cell survival of immortalized motor neuron-like cells (NSC-34), and addition of the exogenous ganglioside GalNAc beta4(Neu5Ac alpha3)Gal beta4GlcCer (GM2) facilitated cell survival together with CNTF. Moreover beta 1,4 N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase (GM2 synthase) activity increased in NSC-34 cells cultured with CNTF. We now have examined whether CNTF-induced cell survival is associated with the collaboration between GM2 and the CNTF receptor (CNTF-R). Despite the presence of CNTF (50 ng/ml), anti-CNTF-R antibody caused cell death and prevented the up-regulation of GM2 synthase expression. The addition of GM2 (1 to 20 microM) abrogated the anti-CNTF-R antibody effect which shortened cell survival and blocked GM2 synthase activation. Use of [125I]CNTF showed the specificity of CNTF binding in NSC-34 cells in situ. GM2 produced a 5-fold increase in the CNTF binding affinity per cell but did not change the binding site number. The study by metabolic labeling with [1-(14)C]N-acetyl-D-galactosamine ([14C]GalNAc) showed that biosynthesized GM2 was involved in the immunoprecipitation of CNTF-R. These findings indicate that up-regulated GM2 synthesis induces functional conversion of CNTF-R to the activated state, in which it has affinity for CNTF. We conclude that GM2 is a bio-regulating molecule of CNTF-R in motor neurons.

Regulation of energy metabolism in human cells in aging and diabetes: FoF(1), mtDNA, UCP, and ROS

Recent advances in bioenergetics consist of discoveries related to rotational coupling in ATP synthase (FoF(1)), uncoupling proteins (UCP), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). As shown in cloned sheep, mammalian genomes are composed of both nuclear DNA (nDNA) and maternal mtDNA. Oxidative phosphorylation (oxphos) varies greatly depending on cellular activities, and is regulated by both gene expression and the electrochemical potential difference of H(+) (Delta muH(+)). The expression of both mtDNA (by mtTFA) and nDNA for oxphos and UCP (by NRFs, etc.) is coordinated by a factor called PGC-1. The Delta muH(+) rotates an axis in FoF(1) that is regulated by inhibitors and ATP-sensitive K(+)-channels. We cultured human rho(o) cells (cells without mtDNA) in synthetic media and elucidated relationships among mtDNA, nDNA, Delta muH(+), UCPs, ROS, and apoptosis. These cells lack oxphos-dependent ROS formation and survive under conditions of high O(2). Cells cultured in the absence of ROS scavengers have proliferated for 40 years. UCPs lower Delta muH(+) and prevent ROS formation and resulting apoptosis. These results were applied to diabetology and gerontology. The pancreatic rho(o) cells did not secrete insulin, and mtDNA mutations caused diabetes, owing to the deficient Delta muH(+). Insulin resistance was closely related to UCPs and other energy regulators. The resulting high-glucose environment caused glycation of proteins and ROS-mediated apoptosis in vascular cells involved in diabetic complications. Telomeres, oxphos, and ROS are determinants in cellular aging. Cell division and ROS shortened telomeres and accelerated aging. In aged cells, Delta muH(+) was reduced by the slow respiration, and this change induced apoptosis. Cybrids made from aged cytoplasts and rho(o) cells showed that both decreased expression of nDNA, and somatic mutations of mtDNA are involved in the slowing of respiration in aged cells.

Mitochondrial medicine--recent advances

Mitochondria contain the respiratory chain enzyme complexes that carry out oxidative phosphorylation and produce the main part of cellular energy in the form of ATP. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) encodes essential subunits of the respiratory chain and is thus critical for maintaining cellular energy production. The first pathogenic mtDNA mutations were reported in 1988, and today more than 50 disease-causing mtDNA mutations have been identified. In addition, mtDNA mutations have been implicated in ageing and in common disorders such as diabetes mellitus, heart failure and Parkinson's disease. This review will summarize recent advances in the rapidly expanding field of mitochondrial medicine.

Quantitation and origin of the mitochondrial membrane potential in human cells lacking mitochondrial DNA

Mammalian mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) encodes 13 polypeptide components of oxidative phosphorylation complexes. Consequently, cells that lack mtDNA (termed rho degrees cells) cannot maintain a membrane potential by proton pumping. However, most mitochondrial proteins are encoded by nuclear DNA and are still imported into mitochondria in rho degrees cells by a mechanism that requires a membrane potential. This membrane potential is thought to arise from the electrogenic exchange of ATP4- for ADP3- by the adenine nucleotide carrier. An intramitochondrial ATPase, probably an incomplete FoF1-ATP synthase lacking the two subunits encoded by mtDNA, is also essential to ensure sufficient charge flux to maintain the potential. However, there are considerable uncertainties about the magnitude of this membrane potential, the nature of the intramitochondrial ATPase and the ATP flux required to maintain the potential. Here we have investigated these factors in intact and digitonin-permeabilized mammalian rho degrees cells. The adenine nucleotide carrier and ATP were essential, but not sufficient to generate a membrane potential in rho degrees cells and an incomplete FoF1-ATP synthase was also required. The maximum value of this potential was approximately 110 mV in permeabilized cells and approximately 67 mV in intact cells. The membrane potential was eliminated by inhibitors of the adenine nucleotide carrier and by azide, an inhibitor of the incomplete FoF1-ATP synthase, but not by oligomycin. This potential is sufficient to import nuclear-encoded proteins but approximately 65 mV lower than that in 143B cells containing fully functional mitochondria. Subfractionation of rho degrees mitochondria showed that the azide-sensitive ATPase activity was membrane associated. Further analysis by blue native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (BN/PAGE) followed by activity staining or immunoblotting, showed that this ATPase activity was an incomplete FoF1-ATPase loosely associated with the membrane. Maintenance of this membrane potential consumed about 13% of the ATP produced by glycolysis. This work has clarified the role of the adenine nucleotide carrier and an incomplete FoF1-ATP synthase in maintaining the mitochondrial membrane potential in rho degrees cells.

The yeast expression system for recombinant glycosyltransferases

Glycosyltransferases are increasingly being used for in vitro synthesis of oligosaccharides. Since these enzymes are difficult to purify from natural sources, expression systems for soluble forms of the recombinant enzymes have been developed. This review focuses on the current state of development of yeast expression systems. Two yeast species have mainly been used, i.e. Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Pichia pastoris. Safety and ease of fermentation are well recognized for S. cerevisiae as a biotechnological expression system; however, even soluble forms of recombinant glycosyltransferases are not secreted. In some cases, hyperglycosylation may occur. P. pastoris, by contrast, secrete soluble orthoglycosylated forms to the supernatant where they can be recovered in a highly purified form. The review also covers some basic features of yeast fermentation and describes in some detail those glycosyltransferases that have successfully been expressed in yeasts. These include beta1,4galactosyltransferase, alpha2,6sialyltransferase, alpha2,3sialyltransferase, alpha1,3fucosyltransferase III and VI and alpha1,2mannosyltransferase. Current efforts in introducing glycosylation systems of higher eukaryotes into yeasts are briefly addressed.

Dorsal root ganglia neuron-specific promoter activity of the rabbit beta-galactoside alpha1,2-fucosyltransferase gene

The rabbit H-blood type alpha1,2-fucosyltransferase (RFT-I), gene and its biosynthetic products, H antigens (Fucalpha1,2Galbeta), are abundantly expressed in a subset of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons. To investigate the regulatory mechanisms for the RFT-I gene expression, we determined the genomic structure and promoter activity of this gene. PCR amplification of the 5' cDNA end analysis revealed two transcriptional start sites, 498 and 82 nucleotides upstream of the translational initiation codon, the latter site yielding a major 3.1-kb transcript specifically expressed in DRG, as revealed by Northern blotting. Promoter analysis of the 5'-flanking region of the RFT-I gene using a luciferase gene reporter system demonstrated strong promoter activity in PC12 cells, which express the rat H-type alpha1,2-fucosyltransferase gene, and Neuro2a mouse neuroblastoma cells. Deletion analysis revealed the 704-base pair minimal promoter region flanking the translational initiation codon, for which two distinct promoter activities were detected and differentially used in PC12 and Neuro2a cells. The minimal promoter region contained a GC-rich domain (GC content 80%), in which a Sp1 binding sequence and a GSG-like nerve growth factor-responsive element were found, but lacked TATA- and CAAT-boxes. Promoter analysis with a primary culture of DRG neurons demonstrated that the minimal promoter region of the RFT-I gene was sufficient for the expression of a reporter gene in DRG neurons. We conclude that the TATA-less GC-rich minimal promoter region of the RFT-I gene controls DRG small neuron-specific expression of the RFT-I gene.

Cloning of the multipartite promoter of the sodium-calcium exchanger gene NCX1 and characterization of its activity in vascular smooth muscle cells

The sodium-calcium exchange activity is mediated by proteins encoded in a small gene family, of which the gene NCX1 is ubiquitously expressed in mammalian tissues. In this study, the multipartite promoter of this gene was analyzed in the human and rat genomes by means of DNA cloning, reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, and transient transfection of fusion constructs with the firefly luciferase gene into cultured rat aortic smooth muscle cells. The gene-proximal promoter, located 30 kilobase pairs (kb) away from the first coding exon 2, has features of a GC-rich housekeeping promoter and is apparently always active; in specific tissues, however, it is augmented by one or two additional promoters, located either within 1.5 kb upstream of it, or 35 kb upstream. The gene proximal promoter shows the highest activity in aortic smooth muscle cells. In mammalian species transcripts from all three promoters undergo splicing via an intermediate, containing two noncoding exons, of which the downstream one is normally not present in the terminal splicing product.

Appearance of beta 1,4 N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase (glycosphingolipids GA2/GM2/GD2 synthase) in embryonic chicken vitreous humor during development

PURPOSE

beta 1,4 N-Acetylgalactosaminyltransferase (GalNAcT) is a type II integral membrane protein of the Golgi apparatus that catalyzes the synthesis of the glycosphingolipids GM2, GD2, and GA2. The activity of GalNAcT in chick retinal cells increases 6-fold between embryonic days 7 and 14. Because GalNAcT, like many Golgi glycosyltransferases, is proteolytically cleaved from Golgi membranes to release a soluble form into the culture medium of cells transfected with the cloned human enzyme, we tested whether GalNAcT might be released from embryonic retinal cells into the vitreous humor.

METHODS

Samples of vitreous humor and plasma and extracts of retinal cells were assayed for GalNAcT activity.

RESULTS

The activity of a soluble form of GalNAcT in embryonic chick vitreous humor was nearly undetectable until embryonic day 10, then increased more than six fold until day 16, and remained at that level until birth. The activity was identified as authentic GalNAcT based on a requirement for Mn++, GSL substrate specificity, and product characterization. GalNAcT activity in embryonic plasma was roughly 10% that of the corresponding vitreous humor, suggesting that the plasma was not the source of the activity in the vitreous.

CONCLUSIONS

GalNAcT in embryonic chicken vitreous humor is likely due either to a specific release from neural retinal cells or due to non-specific lysis of these cells during apoptosis associated with the development of the retina. Regardless of the source, GalNAcT in the vitreous humor has the potential to function as a lectin by binding to gangliosides GD3 and GM3 on the surface of retinal cells and, thereby, to influence neuronal development.

Structure and expression of H-type GDP-L-fucose:beta-D-galactoside 2-alpha-L-fucosyltransferase gene (FUT1). Two transcription start sites and alternative splicing generate several forms of FUT1 mRNA

The expression of the ABO antigens on erythrocyte membranes is regulated by H gene (FUT1)-encoded alpha(1,2)fucosyltransferase activity. We have examined the expression of the FUT1 in several tumor cell lines, including erythroid lineage and normal bone marrow cells, by Northern blot and/or reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analyses. RT-PCR indicated that bone marrow cells, erythroleukemic cells (HEL), and highly undifferentiated leukemic cells (K562) that have erythroid characteristics expressed the FUT1 mRNA while four leukemic cell lines did not. The FUT1 mRNA was also demonstrated in gastric, colonic, and ovarian (MCAS) cancer cell lines by RT-PCR. Northern blot analysis indicated that a 4. 0-kilobase FUT1 transcript was expressed in some of these tumor cell lines. Rapid amplification of 5' cDNA end (RACE) analysis suggested that the FUT1 transcript had several forms generated by two distinct transcription start sites and alternative splicing. The results of RT-PCR using specific primers for each starting exon suggested that two transcription initiation sites (exon 1A and exon 2A) of the FUT1 were identified in gastric cancer cells and in ovarian cancer cells. Only exon 1A was identified as a transcription start site in another gastric cancer cell line, two colonic cancer cell lines, and in K562 cells, whereas only exon 2A was identified in HEL cells and in bone marrow cells. These two transcription start sites were located 1.8 kilobases apart. Therefore, two distinct promoters appeared to be present in the FUT1. The distinct promoters of the FUT1 and alternative splicing of the FUT1 mRNA may be associated with time- and tissue-specific expression of the FUT1.