Type II secretory phospholipase A2 associated with cell surfaces via C-terminal heparin-binding lysine residues augments stimulus-initiated delayed prostaglandin generation

Review of Eukaryote Cellular Membrane Lipid Composition, with Special Attention to the Fatty Acids

Biological membranes, primarily composed of lipids, envelop each living cell. The intricate composition and organization of membrane lipids, including the variety of fatty acids they encompass, serve a dynamic role in sustaining cellular structural integrity and functionality. Typically, modifications in lipid composition coincide with consequential alterations in universally significant signaling pathways. Exploring the various fatty acids, which serve as the foundational building blocks of membrane lipids, provides crucial insights into the underlying mechanisms governing a myriad of cellular processes, such as membrane fluidity, protein trafficking, signal transduction, intercellular communication, and the etiology of certain metabolic disorders. Furthermore, comprehending how alterations in the lipid composition, especially concerning the fatty acid profile, either contribute to or prevent the onset of pathological conditions stands as a compelling area of research. Hence, this review aims to meticulously introduce the intricacies of membrane lipids and their constituent fatty acids in a healthy organism, thereby illuminating their remarkable diversity and profound influence on cellular function. Furthermore, this review aspires to highlight some potential therapeutic targets for various pathological conditions that may be ameliorated through dietary fatty acid supplements. The initial section of this review expounds on the eukaryotic biomembranes and their complex lipids. Subsequent sections provide insights into the synthesis, membrane incorporation, and distribution of fatty acids across various fractions of membrane lipids. The last section highlights the functional significance of membrane-associated fatty acids and their innate capacity to shape the various cellular physiological responses.

Old but New: Group IIA Phospholipase A2 as a Modulator of Gut Microbiota

Among the phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂) superfamily, the secreted PLA₂ (sPLA₂) family contains 11 mammalian isoforms that exhibit unique tissue or cellular distributions and enzymatic properties. Current studies using sPLA₂-deficient or -overexpressed mouse strains, along with mass spectrometric lipidomics to determine sPLA₂-driven lipid pathways, have revealed the diverse pathophysiological roles of sPLA₂s in various biological events. In general, individual sPLA₂s exert their specific functions within tissue microenvironments, where they are intrinsically expressed through hydrolysis of extracellular phospholipids. Recent studies have uncovered a new aspect of group IIA sPLA₂ (sPLA₂-IIA), a prototypic sPLA₂ with the oldest research history among the mammalian PLA₂s, as a modulator of the gut microbiota. In the intestine, Paneth cell-derived sPLA₂-IIA acts as an antimicrobial protein to shape the gut microbiota, thereby secondarily affecting inflammation, allergy, and cancer in proximal and distal tissues. Knockout of intestinal sPLA₂-IIA in BALB/c mice leads to alterations in skin cancer, psoriasis, and anaphylaxis, while overexpression of sPLA₂-IIA in Pla2g2a-null C57BL/6 mice induces systemic inflammation and exacerbates arthritis. These phenotypes are associated with notable changes in gut microbiota and fecal metabolites, are variable in different animal facilities, and are abrogated after antibiotic treatment, co-housing, or fecal transfer. These studies open a new mechanistic action of this old sPLA₂ and add the sPLA₂ family to the growing list of endogenous factors capable of affecting the microbe–host interaction and thereby systemic homeostasis and diseases.

A Potential Role of Phospholipase 2 Group IIA (PLA2-IIA) in P. gingivalis-Induced Oral Dysbiosis

Porphyromonas gingivalis is an oral pathogen with the ability to induce oral dysbiosis and periodontal disease. Nevertheless, the mechanisms by which P. gingivalis could abrogate the host-microbe symbiotic relationship leading to oral dysbiosis remain unclear. We have recently demonstrated that P. gingivalis specifically increased the antimicrobial properties of oral epithelial cells, through a strong induction of the expression of PLA₂-IIA in a mechanism that involves activation of the Notch-1 receptor. Moreover, gingival expression of PLA₂-IIA was significantly increased during initiation and progression of periodontal disease in non-human primates and interestingly, those PLA₂-IIA expression changes were concurrent with oral dysbiosis. In this chapter, we present an innovative hypothesis of a potential mechanism involved in P. gingivalis-induced oral dysbiosis and inflammation based on our previous observations and a robust body of literature that supports the antimicrobial and proinflammatory properties of PLA₂-IIA as well as its role in other chronic inflammatory diseases.

Enzymatic labelling of snake venom phospholipase A2 toxins

Almost all animal venoms contain secretory phospholipases A₂ (PLA₂s), 14 kDa disulfide-rich enzymes that hydrolyze membrane phospholipids at the sn-2 position, releasing lysophospholipids and fatty acids. These proteins, depending on their sequence, show a wide variety of biochemical, toxic and pharmacological effects and deserve to be studied for their numerous possible applications, and to improve antivenom drugs. The cellular localization and activity of a protein can be studied by conjugating it with a tag. In this work, we applied an enzymatic labelling method, using Streptomyces mobaraense transglutaminase, on three snake venom PLA₂s: a recombinant neuro- and myotoxic group I PLA₂ from Notechis scutatus scutatus, and two myotoxic group II PLA₂s from Bothrops asper - one of them a natural catalytically inactive variant. We demonstrate that TGase can be used to produce active mono- or bi-derivatives of these three PLA₂s modified at specific Lys residues, and that all three of these proteins, conjugated with fluorescent peptides, are internalized in primary myotubes.

Harmful and protective roles of group V phospholipase A2: Current perspectives and future directions

Group V Phospholipase A₂ (Pla2g5) is a member of the PLA₂ family of lipid-generating enzymes. It is expressed in immune and non-immune cell types and is inducible during several pathologic conditions serving context-specific functions. In this review, we recapitulate the protective and detrimental functions of Pla2g5 investigated through preclinical and translational approaches. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Novel functions of phospholipase A₂ Guest Editors: Makoto Murakami and Gerard Lambeau.

Going into labor and beyond: phospholipase A2 in pregnancy

The phospholipase A2(PLA2) family is a very diverse group of enzymes, all serving in the cleavage of phospholipids, thereby releasing high amounts of arachidonic acid (AA) and lysophospholipids. AA serves as a substrate for prostaglandin production, which is of special importance in pregnancy for the onset of parturition. Novel research demonstrates that PLA2action affects the immune response of the mother toward the child and is therefore probably implied in the tolerance of the fetus and prevention of miscarriage. This review presents data on the biochemical and enzymatic properties of PLA2during gestation with a special emphasis on its role for the placental function and development of the fetus. We also critically discuss the possible pathophysiological significance of PLA2alterations and its possible functional consequences. These alterations are often associated with pregnancy pathologies such as preeclampsia and villitis or pregnancy complications such as obesity and diabetes in the mother as well as preterm onset of labor.

Ac2-26 Mimetic Peptide of Annexin A1 Inhibits Local and Systemic Inflammatory Processes Induced by Bothrops moojeni Venom and the Lys-49 Phospholipase A2 in a Rat Model

Annexin A1 (AnxA1) is an endogenous glucocorticoid regulated protein that modulates anti-inflammatory process and its therapeutic potential has recently been recognized in a range of systemic inflammatory disorders. The effect of the N-terminal peptide Ac2-26 of AnxA1 on the toxic activities of Bothrops moojeni crude venom (CV) and its myotoxin II (MjTX-II) were evaluated using a peritonitis rat model. Peritonitis was induced by the intraperitoneal injection of either CV or MjTX-II, a Lys-49 phospholipase A2. Fifteen minutes after the injection, the rats were treated with either Ac2-26 or PBS. Four hours later, the CV and MjTX-II-induced peritonitis were characterized by neutrophilia (in the peritoneal exudate, blood and mesentery) and increased number of mesenteric degranulated mast cells and macrophages. At 24 hours post-injection, the local inflammatory response was attenuated in the CV-induced peritonitis while the MjTX-II group exhibited neutrophilia (peritoneal exudates and blood). Ac2-26 treatment prevented the influx of neutrophils in MjTX-II-induced peritonitis and diminished the proportion of mesenteric degranulated mast cells and macrophages in CV-induced peritonitis. Additionally, CV and MjTX-II promoted increased levels of IL-1β and IL-6 in the peritoneal exudates which were significantly reduced after Ac2-26 treatment. At 4 and 24 hours, the endogenous expression of AnxA1 was upregulated in the mesenteric neutrophils (CV and MjTX-II groups) and mast cells (CV group). In the kidneys, CV and MjTX-II administrations were associated with an increased number of macrophages and morphological alterations in the juxtamedullary nephrons in proximal and distal tubules. Ac2-26 promoted significant recovery of the juxtamedullary structures, decreased the number of macrophages and diminished the AnxA1 in epithelial cells from distal tubules and renal capsules. Our results show that Ac2-26 treatment significantly attenuates local and systemic inflammatory processes and indicate this peptide as a potential target for the development of new therapeutic strategies for the snakebite envenomation treatment.

Renaturation and one step purification of the chicken GIIA secreted phospholipase A2 from inclusion bodies

The cDNA coding for a mature protein of 123 amino acids, containing all of the structural features of catalytically active group II sPLA2, has been amplified. The gene has been cloned into the bacterial expression vector pET-21a(+), which allows protein over-expression as inclusion bodies and enables about 3 mg per litre of pure refolded fully active enzyme to be obtained. Recombinant expression of chPLA2-IIA in Escherichia coli shows that the enzyme is Ca(2+) dependent, maximally active at pH 8-9, and hydrolyses phosphatidylglycerol versus phosphatidylcholine with a 15-fold preference. The ability to express reasonably large amounts of the sPLA2 Group IIA, compared to that obtained with the classical purification will provide a basis for future site directed mutagenesis studies of this important enzyme.

The role of ceramide-1-phosphate in biological functions

In mammalian cells, cermide-1-phosphate (C1P) is produced via the ATP-dependent mechanism of converting ceramide to C1P by the enzyme, ceramide kinase (CERK). CERK was first described as a calcium-stimulated lipid kinase that co-purified with brain synaptic vesicles, and to date, CERK is the only identified mammalian enzyme known to produce C1P in cells. C1P has steadily emerged as a bioactive sphingolipid involved in cell proliferation, macrophage migration, and inflammatory events. The recent generation of the CERK knockout mouse and the development of CERK inhibitors have furthered our current understanding of CERK-derived C1P in regulating biological processes. In this chapter, the history of C1P as well as the biological functions attributed to C1P are reviewed.

Once initiated, how does toxic tissue injury expand?

Once initiated, how tissue injury expands after high toxicant doses, even after their complete elimination, is not understood. Free-radical generation was initially proposed to mediate progression of injury. However, mechanisms proposed thus far have remained unsubstantiated. Necrotic injury is characterized by loss of osmoregulation, cell swelling, blebbing, and cell rupture. This exposes cytosolic enzymes, including proteases, phospholipases, and lysosomal Ca(2+)-dependent enzymes, to high extracellular calcium (Ca(2+)). Activated hydrolytic enzymes, termed 'death proteins,' hydrolyze their substrates in the plasma membrane of neighboring cells, commencing self-perpetuated injury progression. Likewise, ischemia-reperfusion injury exposes the hydrolytic enzymes to high Ca(2+), fuelling the progression of tissue injury. This mechanism is independent of the offending toxicant that initiates the injury. I present here a case for therapeutic intervention with inhibitors directed against death proteins as a means to avert organ failure and death well after the poisoning event.

Crystal structure of Bn IV in complex with myristic acid: a Lys49 myotoxic phospholipase A₂ from Bothrops neuwiedi venom

The LYS49-PLA₂s myotoxins have attracted attention as models for the induction of myonecrosis by a catalytically independent mechanism of action. Structural studies and biological activities have demonstrated that the myotoxic activity of LYS49-PLA₂ is independent of the catalytic activity site. The myotoxic effect is conventionally thought to be to due to the C-terminal region 111-121, which plays an effective role in membrane damage. In the present study, Bn IV LYS49-PLA₂ was isolated from Bothrops neuwiedi snake venom in complex with myristic acid (CH₃(CH₂)₁₂COOH) and its overall structure was refined at 2.2 Å resolution. The Bn IV crystals belong to monoclinic space group P2₁ and contain a dimer in the asymmetric unit. The unit cell parameters are a = 38.8, b = 70.4, c = 44.0 Å. The biological assembly is a "conventional dimer" and the results confirm that dimer formation is not relevant to the myotoxic activity. Electron density map analysis of the Bn IV structure shows clearly the presence of myristic acid in catalytic site. The relevant structural features for myotoxic activity are located in the C-terminal region and the Bn IV C-terminal residues NKKYRY are a probable heparin binding domain. These findings indicate that the mechanism of interaction between Bn IV and muscle cell membranes is through some kind of cell signal transduction mediated by heparin complexes.

Role of secretory phospholipase a(2) in CNS inflammation: implications in traumatic spinal cord injury

Secretory phospholipases A(2) (sPLA(2)s) are a subfamily of lipolytic enzymes which hydrolyze the acyl bond at the sn-2 position of glycerophospholipids to produce free fatty acids and lysophospholipids. These products are precursors of bioactive eicosanoids and platelet-activating factor (PAF). The hydrolysis of membrane phospholipids by PLA(2) is a rate-limiting step for generation of eicosanoids and PAF. To date, more than 10 isozymes of sPLA(2) have been found in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS). Under physiological conditions, sPLA(2)s are involved in diverse cellular responses, including host defense, phospholipid digestion and metabolism. However, under pathological situations, increased sPLA(2) activity and excessive production of free fatty acids and their metabolites may lead to inflammation, loss of membrane integrity, oxidative stress, and subsequent tissue injury. Emerging evidence suggests that sPLA(2) plays a role in the secondary injury process after traumatic or ischemic injuries in the brain and spinal cord. Importantly, sPLA(2) may act as a convergence molecule that mediates multiple key mechanisms involved in the secondary injury since it can be induced by multiple toxic factors such as inflammatory cytokines, free radicals, and excitatory amino acids, and its activation and metabolites can exacerbate the secondary injury. Blocking sPLA(2) action may represent a novel and efficient strategy to block multiple injury pathways associated with the CNS secondary injury. This review outlines the current knowledge of sPLA(2) in the CNS with emphasis placed on the possible roles of sPLA(2) in mediating CNS injuries, particularly the traumatic and ischemic injuries in the brain and spinal cord.

Structural characterization of myotoxic ecarpholin S from Echis carinatus venom

Phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)), a common toxic component of snake venom, has been implicated in various pharmacological effects. Ecarpholin S, isolated from the venom of the snake Echis carinatus sochureki, is a phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) belonging to the Ser(49)-PLA(2) subgroup. It has been characterized as having low enzymatic but potent myotoxic activities. The crystal structures of native ecarpholin S and its complexes with lauric acid, and its inhibitor suramin, were elucidated. This is the first report of the structure of a member of the Ser(49)-PLA(2) subgroup. We also examined interactions of ecarpholin S with phosphatidylglycerol and lauric acid, using surface plasmon resonance, and of suramin with isothermal titration calorimetry. Most Ca(2+)-dependent PLA(2) enzymes have Asp in position 49, which plays a crucial role in Ca(2+) binding. The three-dimensional structure of ecarpholin S reveals a unique conformation of the Ca(2+)-binding loop that is not favorable for Ca(2+) coordination. Furthermore, the endogenously bound fatty acid (lauric acid) in the hydrophobic channel may also interrupt the catalytic cycle. These two observations may account for the low enzymatic activity of ecarpholin S, despite full retention of the catalytic machinery. These observations may also be applicable to other non-Asp(49)-PLA(2) enzymes. The interaction of suramin in its complex with ecarpholin S is quite different from that reported for the Lys(49)-PLA(2)/suramin complex(,) where the interfacial recognition face (i-face), C-terminal region, and N-terminal region of ecarpholin S play important roles. This study provides significant structural and functional insights into the myotoxic activity of ecarpholin S and, in general, of non-Asp(49)-PLA(2) enzymes.

Secretory PLA2 inhibitor indoxam suppresses LDL modification and associated inflammatory responses in TNFalpha-stimulated human endothelial cells

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2) is implicated in atherosclerosis, although the effects of specific sPLA2 inhibitors have not been studied. We investigated the effects of the indole analogue indoxam on low-density lipoprotein (LDL) modification by sPLA2 enzymes of different types and on the associated inflammatory responses in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

LDL modification was assessed by measuring the contents of two major molecular species of lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) using electrospray ionization-liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. The proinflammatory activity of the modified LDL was evaluated by determining monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) mRNA expression and transcriptional factor nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) activity in HUVEC.

KEY RESULTS

Indoxam dose-dependently inhibited palmitoyl- and stearoyl-LPC production in LDL incubated with snake venom sPLA2 (IC50 1.2 microM for palmitoyl-LPC, 0.8 microM for stearoyl-LPC). MCP-1 mRNA expression and NF-kappaB activity were enhanced by venom sPLA2-treated LDL, which was completely suppressed by indoxam but not by thioetheramide-PC, a competitive sPLA2 inhibitor. Indoxam also suppressed LPC production in LDL treated with human synovial type IIA sPLA2. Tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) increased type V sPLA2 expression in HUVEC. Indoxam dose-dependently suppressed LPC production in native and glycoxidized LDL treated with TNFalpha-stimulated HUVEC. Indoxam suppressed MCP-1 mRNA expression and NF-kappaB activity in TNFalpha-stimulated HUVEC incubated with native or glycoxidized LDL.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Indoxam prevented sPLA2-induced LPC production in native and glycoxidized LDL as well as LDL-induced inflammatory activity in HUVEC. Our results suggest that indoxam may be a potentially useful anti-atherogenic agent.

A novel role of group VIB calcium-independent phospholipase A2 (iPLA2gamma) in the inducible expression of group IIA secretory PLA2 in rat fibroblastic cells

Group IIA secretory phospholipase A(2) (sPLA(2)-IIA) is a prototypic sPLA(2) enzyme that may play roles in modification of eicosanoid biosynthesis as well as antibacterial defense. In several cell types, inducible expression of sPLA(2) by pro-inflammatory stimuli is attenuated by group IVA cytosolic PLA(2) (cPLA(2)alpha) inhibitors such as arachidonyl trifluoromethyl ketone, leading to the proposal that prior activation of cPLA(2)alpha is required for de novo induction of sPLA(2). However, because of the broad specificity of several cPLA(2)alpha inhibitors used so far, a more comprehensive approach is needed to evaluate the relevance of this ambiguous pathway. Here, we provide evidence that the induction of sPLA(2)-IIA by pro-inflammatory stimuli requires group VIB calcium-independent PLA(2) (iPLA(2)gamma), rather than cPLA(2)alpha, in rat fibroblastic 3Y1 cells. Results with small interfering RNA unexpectedly showed that the cytokine induction of sPLA(2)-IIA in cPLA(2)alpha knockdown cells, in which cPLA(2)alpha protein was undetectable, was similar to that in replicate control cells. By contrast, knockdown of iPLA(2)gamma, another arachidonyl trifluoromethyl ketone-sensitive intracellular PLA(2), markedly reduced the cytokine-induced expression of sPLA(2)-IIA. Supporting this finding, the R-enantiomer of bromoenol lactone, an iPLA(2)gamma inhibitor, suppressed the cytokine-induced sPLA(2)-IIA expression, whereas (S)-bromoenol lactone, an iPLA(2)beta inhibitor, failed to do so. Moreover, lipopolysaccharide-stimulated sPLA(2)-IIA expression was also abolished by knockdown of iPLA(2)gamma. These findings open new insight into a novel regulatory role of iPLA(2)gamma in stimulus-coupled sPLA(2)-IIA expression.

Expression of secretory phospholipase A2 in colon tumor cells potentiates tumor growth

Secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2-IIA) has been shown to attenuate intestinal tumorigenesis in Apc(Min) mice, demonstrating that it is a tumor modifier. To further explore the actions of sPLA2-IIA in tumorigenesis, sPLA2-IIA was overexpressed in two cell lines where it is normally absent, the murine colon tumor cell line AJ02nm0, and human colon carcinoma cell line HCT-116. Two allelic variants of sPLA2-IIA were tested in this study; sPLA2-IIA(AKR) and sPLA2-IIA(SWR), which are derived from AKR/J and SWR/J mice, respectively, and differ by a single amino acid at position 63 in the calcium- and receptor-binding domain. There was no change in cell-doubling time for either allele when compared to vector controls. Furthermore, sodium butyrate and arachidonic acid (AA)-induced cell death were unchanged in control and transfected cells. Addition of the sPLA2 substrate, palmitoyl-arachidonoyl-phosphatidic acid (PAPA), to AJ02nm0 cells resulted in a modest (12%-24%), but significant (P < 0.01), inhibition of growth that was dependent on sPLA2-IIA expression. However, when AJ02nm0 and HCT-116 cells were injected subcutaneously (sc) into nude mice, Pla2g2a expression resulted in a 2.5-fold increase in tumor size. In addition, sPLA2-IIA expressing HCT-116 tumors were found to be more infiltrative than controls. We conclude that the ability of sPLA2-IIA to slow tumor cell growth is dependent upon the availability of substrate, and that in some instances sPLA2-IIA may actually enhance tumor growth. Mechanisms that may account for differences between the tumor explant model versus the Apc(Min) model of intestinal cancer are discussed.

Unique Membrane Interaction Mode of Group IIF Phospholipase A2

The mechanisms by which secretory phospholipases A(2) (PLA(2)s) exert cellular effects are not fully understood. Group IIF PLA(2) (gIIFPLA(2)) is a structurally unique secretory PLA(2) with a long C-terminal extension. Homology modeling suggests that the membrane-binding surface of this acidic PLA(2) contains hydrophobic residues clustered near the C-terminal extension. Vesicle leakage and monolayer penetration measurements showed that gIIFPLA(2) had a unique ability to penetrate and disrupt compactly packed monolayers and bilayers whose lipid composition recapitulates that of the outer plasma membrane of mammalian cells. Fluorescence imaging showed that gIIFPLA(2) could also readily enter and deform plasma membrane-mimicking giant unilamellar vesicles. Mutation analysis indicates that hydrophobic residues (Tyr(115), Phe(116), Val(118), and Tyr(119)) near the C-terminal extension are responsible for these activities. When gIIFPLA(2) was exogenously added to HEK293 cells, it initially bound to the plasma membrane and then rapidly entered the cells in an endocytosis-independent manner, but the cell entry did not lead to a significant degree of phospholipid hydrolysis. GIIFPLA(2) mRNA was detected endogenously in human CD4(+) helper T cells after in vitro stimulation and exogenously added gIIFPLA(2) inhibited the proliferation of a T cell line, which was not seen with group IIA PLA(2). Collectively, these data suggest that unique membrane-binding properties of gIIFPLA(2) may confer special functionality on this secretory PLA(2) under certain physiological conditions.

Group V sPLA2: classical and novel functions

Group V sPLA(2) is unique among the family of secretory sPLA(2) enzymes in being able to bind to cell membranes through both interfacial-binding and through binding to proteoglycan. The function of group V sPLA(2) as an enzyme and its cross-talk with cPLA(2)alpha in initiating eicosanoid generation is well documented. Evidence, though, is emerging on the ability of this molecule to act as a regulator of several intracellular and extracellular pathways independently of its ability to provide arachidonic acid for eicosanoid generation, acting within the cell or as a secreted enzyme. In this article we will provide an overview of the properties of the enzyme and how they relate to our current understanding of its function.

Intracellular actions of group IIA secreted phospholipase A2 and group IVA cytosolic phospholipase A2 contribute to arachidonic acid release and prostaglandin production in rat gastric mucosal cells and transfected human embryonic kidney cells

Gastric epithelial cells liberate prostaglandin E(2) in response to cytokines as part of the process of healing of gastric lesions. Treatment of the rat gastric epithelial cell line RGM1 with transforming growth factor-alpha and interleukin-1beta leads to synergistic release of arachidonate and production of prostaglandin E(2). Results with highly specific and potent phospholipase A(2) inhibitors and with small interfering RNA show that cytosolic phospholipase A(2)-alpha and group IIA secreted phospholipase A(2) contribute to arachidonate release from cytokine-stimulated RGM1 cells. In the late phase of arachidonate release, group IIA secreted phospholipase A(2) is induced (detected at the mRNA and protein levels), and the action of cytosolic phospholipase A(2)-alpha is required for this induction. Results with RGM1 cells and group IIA secreted phospholipase A(2)-transfected HEK293 cells show that the group IIA phospholipase acts prior to externalization from the cells. RGM1 cells also express group XIIA secreted phospholipase A(2), but this enzyme is not regulated by cytokines nor does it contribute to arachidonate release. The other eight secreted phospholipases A(2) were not detected in RGM1 cells at the mRNA level. These results clearly show that cytosolic and group IIA secreted phospholipases A(2) work together to liberate arachidonate from RGM1 cell phospholipids in response to cytokines.

Secretory phospholipase A2 induces apoptosis through TNF-α and cytochrome c-mediated caspase cascade in murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells

Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) is an esterase that cleaves the sn-2 ester bond in glycerophospholipids, thereby releasing free fatty acids and lysophospholipids. In addition to the apoptotic activity of cytosolic PLA2 and Ca2+-independent PLA2, recent studies showed that secretory PLA2 (sPLA2) also play a role in apoptosis. However, the details of molecular mechanism have not been fully elucidated. Our data demonstrated that group IB PLA (IB PLA2)-exposed murine macrophage 264.7 cells showed characteristic features of apoptosis such as morphological changes, DNA laddering, staining positive for propidium iodide (PI) as well as Annexin V and activation of caspases and subsequent cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) in dose- and time-dependent manner. Moreover, IB PLA2 was found to elicit tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha production and release of cytochrome c, suggesting that IB PLA2 exerts its apoptotic activity via the induction of TNF-alpha production and cytochrome c release, which results in triggering the activation of caspase cascade and PARP cleavage.

Systematic Evaluation of Transcellular Activities of Secretory Phospholipases A2

The mechanisms by which secretory phospholipase A2 (PLA2) exerts cellular effects are not fully understood. To elucidate these mechanisms, we systematically and quantitatively assessed the activities of human group IIA, V, and X PLA2s on originating and neighboring cells using orthogonal fluorogenic substrates in various mixed cell systems. When HEK293 cells stably expressing each of these PLA2s were mixed with non-transfected HEK293 cells, group V and X PLA2s showed strong transcellular lipolytic activity, whereas group IIA PLA2 exhibited much lower transcellular activity. The transcellular activity of group V PLA2 was highly dependent on the presence of cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans of acceptor cells. Activation of RBL-2H3 and DLD-1 cells that express endogenous group V PLA2 led to the secretion of group V PLA2 and its transcellular action on neighboring human neutrophils and eosinophils, respectively. Similarly, activation of human bronchial epithelial cells, BEAS-2B, caused large increases in arachidonic acid and leukotriene C4 release from neighboring human eosinophils. Collectively, these studies show that group V and X PLA2s can act transcellularly on mammalian cells and suggest that group V PLA2 released from neighboring cells may function in triggering the activation of inflammatory cells under physiological conditions.

Perioperative dexamethasone reduces post-surgical sequelae of wisdom tooth removal. A split-mouth randomized double-masked clinical trial

The effect of endo-alveolar and sub-mucosal administration of dexamethasone sodium phosphate to prevent inflammatory sequelae after surgical removal of lower third molars was studied. Forty-three patients underwent bilateral extractions of lower third molars and were randomly assigned to receive either dexamethasone 4 mg (group A) or 10 mg (group B) as endo-alveolar powder or 10 mg as sub-mucosal injection (group C) unilaterally. The controlateral site served as control and did not receive any steroid administration. Facial edema, trismus and pain perception were evaluated at the 2nd and 7th postoperative day. A multivariate analysis revealed that treatment and ostectomy time were both significantly positively associated with the degree of postoperative trismus and edema. Other baseline classification variables (e.g., molar classification) were also predictive of the degree of change in all clinical parameters. Test sites treated (any steroid application) showed greater reductions in all clinical parameters recorded compared to control. No statistically significant differences were observed between the three test groups. Both sub-mucosal and endo-alveolar administration of dexamethasone are effective in reducing postoperative sequelae of surgical removal of lower wisdom teeth.

Synergy between extracellular group IIA phospholipase A2 and phagocyte NADPH oxidase in digestion of phospholipids of Staphylococcus aureus ingested by human neutrophils

Acute inflammatory responses to invading bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus include mobilization of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) and extracellular group IIA phospholipase A2 (gIIA-PLA2). Although accumulating coincidentally, the in vitro anti-staphylococcal activities of PMN and gIIA-PLA2 have thus far been studied separately. We now show that degradation of S. aureus phospholipids during and after phagocytosis by human PMN requires the presence of extracellular gIIA-PLA2. The concentration of extracellular gIIA-PLA2 required to produce bacterial digestion was reduced 10-fold by PMN. The effects of added gIIA-PLA2 were greater when present before phagocytosis but even apparent when added after S. aureus were ingested by PMN. Related group V and X PLA2, which are present within PMN granules, do not contribute to bacterial phospholipid degradation during and after phagocytosis even when added at concentrations 30-fold higher than that needed for action of the gIIA-PLA2. The action of added gIIA-PLA2 required catalytically active gIIA-PLA2 and, in PMN, a functional NADPH oxidase but not myeloperoxidase. These findings reveal a novel collaboration between cellular oxygen-dependent and extracellular oxygen-independent host defense systems that may be important in the ultimate resolution of S. aureus infections.

The interaction between heparin and Lys49 phospholipase A2 reveals the natural binding of heparin on the enzyme

We have studied at a molecular level the interaction of heparins on bothropstoxin-I (BthTx-I), a phospholipase A2 toxin. The protein was monitored using gel filtration chromatography, dynamic light scattering (DLS), circular dichroism (CD), attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) and intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence emission (ITFE) spectroscopy. The elution profile of the protein presents a displacement of the protein peak to larger complexes when interacting with higher concentration of heparin. The DLS results shows two Rh at a molar ratio of 1, one to the distribution of the protein and the second for the action of heparin on BthTx-I structures, and a large distribution with the increase of protein. The interaction is accompanied by significant changes in the CD spectra, showing two common features: a decrease in signal at 208 nm (3 and 6 kDa heparins) and an isodichroic point near 226 nm (3 kDa heparin). FTIR spectra indicate that only a few amino acid residues are involved in this interaction. Alterations in the ITFE by binding heparins suggest that the initial binding occurs on the ventral face of BthTx-I. Together, these results add an experimental and structural basis on the action mechanism of the heparins over the phospholipases A2 and provide a molecular model to elucidate the interaction of the enzyme-heparin complex at a molecular level.

Diversity in secreted PLA2-IIA activity among inbred mouse strains that are resistant or susceptible to Apc Min/+ tumorigenesis

The secreted phospholipase A2 type IIA (Pla2g2a) gene was previously identified as a modifier of intestinal adenoma multiplicity in Apc Min/+ mice. To determine if intestinal secreted phospholipase A2 (sPLA2) activity was also attenuated in susceptible strains, we developed a sensitive assay to directly quantitate sPLA2 activity in the murine intestinal tract utilizing a fluorescent BODIPY-labeled phospholipid substrate. Here, we report assay conditions that distinguish between secreted and cytosolic PLA2 enzyme activities in extracts of intestinal tissue. The small intestine exhibited higher activity levels than the large intestine. Consistent with predictions from the sPLA2-IIA gene sequence in inbred strains, we detected low levels of enzyme activity in inbred strains containing sPLA2-IIA mutations; these strains were also associated with greater numbers of intestinal polyps. Additionally, the assay was able to distinguish differences in levels of sPLA2 activity between neoplasia-resistant strains, which were then shown by sequencing to carry variant wild-type sPLA2-IIA alleles. Immunohistochemical analyses of intestinal tissues were consistent with sPLA2-IIA activity levels. This approach enables further studies of the mechanisms of sPLA2 action influencing the development and tumorigenesis of the small intestine and colon in both mice and humans.

Autocrine and Paracrine Transcriptional Regulation of Type IIA Secretory Phospholipase A2 Gene in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

Objective— The inflammation that occurs during the development of atherosclerosis is characterized by a massive release of sPLA2-IIA (group IIA secretory phospholipase A2) from vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). We have investigated the autocrine function of sPLA2-IIA in rat aortic and human VSMCs.

Methods and Results— We found that the transcription of the endogenous sPLA2-IIA gene increased by adding a cell supernatant containing human sPLA2-IIA proteins. We show that this effect was independent of the sPLA2 activity using sPLA2-IIA proteins lacking enzyme activity. Transient transfections with various sPLA2-IIA rat promoter-luciferase constructs demonstrated that the C/EBP, NK-κB, and Ets transcription factors are involved in the increase in sPLA2-IIA gene transcription. We also found the M-type sPLA2 receptor mRNA in VSMCs, and we showed that the sPLA2-luciferase reporter gene was induced by the specific agonist of the sPLA2 receptor, aminophenylmannopyranoside (APMP), and that this induction was mediated by the same transcription factor-binding sites. Finally, we used a sPLA2-IIA mutant unable to bind heparan-sulfate proteoglycans to show that the binding of wild-type sPLA2-IIA to proteoglycans is essential for the induction of an autocrine loop.

Conclusions— We have thus identified new autocrine and paracrine pathways activating sPLA2-IIA gene expression in rat and human VSMCs.

Search of factors that intermediate cytokine-induced group IIA phospholipase A2 expression through the cytosolic phospholipase A2- and 12/15-lipoxygenase-dependent pathway

Inducible expression of group IIA secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2-IIA) by interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFalpha) is under the control of group IVA cytosolic PLA2alpha and 12/15-lipoxygenase (12/15-LOX) in rat fibroblastic 3Y1 cells. We show here that this cytokine induction of sPLA2-IIA mRNA requires de novo protein synthesis. By means of cDNA array analysis, we found that the level of the CXC chemokine MIP-2 (macrophage inflammatory protein-2) was significantly elevated in 12/15-LOX-transfected cells compared with control cells. IL-1beta/TNFalpha-stimulated induction of endogenous MIP-2 preceded that of sPLA2-IIA, and exogenous MIP-2 induced sPLA2-IIA dose-dependently. Moreover, a MIP-2-specific antisense oligonucleotide and small interfering RNA attenuated the IL-1beta/TNFalpha-induced expression of sPLA2-IIA, suggesting that MIP-2 is an absolute intermediate requirement for optimal induction of sPLA2-IIA. In addition, the expression of c-jun and fra-1, which are components of the transcription factor AP-1, was elevated in 12/15-LOX-transfected cells, in which cytokine-dependent binding of AP-1 to the sPLA2-IIA promoter was increased significantly. Conversely, the receptors for transforming growth factor-beta and platelet-derived growth factor, which contributed to down-regulation of sPLA2-IIA expression, were decreased following 12/15-LOX overexpression. Taken together, 12/15-LOX-dependent up-regulation of sPLA2-IIA expression may result from the interplay between accelerated MIP-2 signaling, AP-1 activation, and attenuated transforming growth factor-beta and platelet-derived growth factor signaling.

Various secretory phospholipase A2 enzymes are expressed in rheumatoid arthritis and augment prostaglandin production in cultured synovial cells

Although group IIA secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2-IIA) is known to be abundantly present in the joints of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), expression of other sPLA2s in this disease has remained unknown. In this study, we examined the expression and localization of six sPLA2s (groups IIA, IID, IIE, IIF, V and X) in human RA. Immunohistochemistry of RA sections revealed that sPLA2-IIA was generally located in synovial lining and sublining cells and cartilage chondrocytes, sPLA2-IID in lymph follicles and capillary endothelium, sPLA2-IIE in vascular smooth muscle cells, and sPLA2-V in interstitial fibroblasts. Expression levels of these group II subfamily sPLA2s appeared to be higher in severe RA than in inactive RA. sPLA2-X was detected in synovial lining cells and interstitial fibers in both active and inactive RA sections. Expression of sPLA2-IIF was partially positive, yet its correlation with disease states was unclear. Expression of sPLA2 transcripts was also evident in cultured normal human synoviocytes, in which sPLA2-IIA and -V were induced by interleukin-1 and sPLA2-X was expressed constitutively. Adenovirus-mediated expression of sPLA2s in cultured synoviocytes resulted in increased prostaglandin E2 production at low ng x mL(-1) concentrations. Thus, multiple sPLA2s are expressed in human RA, in which they may play a role in the augmentation of arachidonate metabolism or exhibit other cell type-specific functions.

Group IIA secretory phospholipase A2 is a unique 12/15-lipoxygenase-regulated gene in cytokine-stimulated rat fibroblastic 3Y1 cells

We have proposed previously that the expression of group IIA secretory phospholipase A(2) (sPLA(2)-IIA), an enzyme implicated in inflammation, is under the control of group IVA cytosolic phospholipase A(2) (cPLA(2)) and 12/15-lipoxygense (12/15-LOX) in cytokine-stimulated rat fibroblastic 3Y1 cells. Here, we show that the reduction of cytokine-stimulated sPLA(2)-IIA induction by the cPLA(2) inhibitor arachidonyl trifluoromethyl ketone (AACOCF(3)) is partially overcome by the addition of various lysophospholipids, such as lysophosphatidylcholine (LysoPC). Furthermore, this lysophospholipid effect was enhanced by further addition of 12/15-LOX products, such as 12(S)- or 15(S)-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (HETE) and 13(S)-hydroxyoctadecadienoic acid (HODE), thus substantiating the hypothesis that the expression of sPLA(2)-IIA is selectively regulated by lipid products of the cPLA(2)-12/15-LOX pathway. In an attempt to identify a set of 12/15-LOX-regulated genes, the cDNA subtraction technique, followed by Northern blotting, was performed to screen particular clones, the expression of which was suppressed by the LOX inhibitor nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA). NDGA-sensitive clones identified thus far included sPLA(2)-IIA, cytoplasmic signaling intermediates, several oxygenases, extracellular matrices, secretory proteins, and other cellular proteins. Of these genes, however, only the expression of sPLA(2)-IIA and 14-3-3eta was enhanced by 12/15-LOX expression. Taken together, our data suggest that sPLA(2)-IIA represents a particular group of genes, the transcription of which is up-regulated by 12/15-LOX metabolites.

Biosynthesis of anandamide and N-palmitoylethanolamine by sequential actions of phospholipase A2 and lysophospholipase D

Anandamide (an endocannabinoid) and other bioactive long-chain NAEs (N-acylethanolamines) are formed by direct release from N-acyl-PE (N-acyl-phosphatidylethanolamine) by a PLD (phospholipase D). However, the possible presence of a two-step pathway from N-acyl-PE has also been suggested previously, which comprises (1) the hydrolysis of N-acyl-PE to N-acyl-lysoPE by PLA1/PLA2 enzyme(s) and (2) the release of NAEs from N-acyllysoPE by lysoPLD (lysophospholipase D) enzyme(s). In the present study we report for the first time the characterization of enzymes responsible for this pathway. The PLA1/PLA2 activity for N-palmitoyl-PE was found in various rat tissues, with the highest activity in the stomach. This stomach enzyme was identified as group IB sPLA2 (secretory PLA2), and its product was determined as N-acyl-1-acyl-lysoPE. Recombinant group IB, IIA and V of sPLA2s were also active with N-palmitoyl-PE, whereas group X sPLA2 and cytosolic PLA2a were inactive. In addition, we found wide distribution of lysoPLD activity generating N-palmitoylethanolamine from N-palmitoyl-lysoPE in rat tissues, with higher activities in the brain and testis. Based on several lines of enzymological evidence, the lysoPLD enzyme could be distinct from the known N-acyl-PE-hydrolysing PLD. sPLA2-IB dose dependently enhanced the production of N-palmitoylethanolamine from N-palmitoyl-PE in the brain homogenate showing the lysoPLD activity. N-Arachidonoyl-PE and N-arachidonoyl-lysoPE as anandamide precursors were also good substrates of sPLA2-IB and the lysoPLD respectively. These results suggest that the sequential actions of PLA2 and lysoPLD may constitute another biosynthetic pathway for NAEs, including anandamide.

An overview of lysine-49 phospholipase A2 myotoxins from crotalid snake venoms and their structural determinants of myotoxic action

In 1984, the first venom phospholipase A2 (PLA2) with a lysine substituting for the highly conserved aspartate 49 was discovered, in the North American crotalid snake Agkistrodon p. piscivorus [J. Biol. Chem. 259 (1984) 13839]. Ten years later, the first mapping of a 'toxic region' on a Lys49 PLA2 was reported, in Bothrops asper myotoxin II [J. Biol. Chem. 269 (1994) 29867]. After a further decade of research on the Lys49 PLA2s, a better understanding of their structural determinants of toxicity and mode of action is rapidly emerging, with myotoxic effector sites identified at the C-terminal region in at least four proteins: B. asper myotoxin II, A. p. piscivorus K49 PLA2, A. c. laticinctus ACL myotoxin, and B. jararacussu bothropstoxin I. Although important features still remain to be established, their toxic mode of action has now been understood in its more general concepts, and a consistent working hypothesis can be experimentally supported. It is proposed that all the toxic activities of Lys49 PLA2s are related to their ability to destabilize natural (eukaryotic and prokaryotic) and artificial membranes, using a cationic/hydrophobic effector site located at their C-terminal loop. This review summarizes the general properties of the Lys49 PLA2 myotoxins, emphasizing the development of current concepts and hypotheses concerning the molecular basis of their toxic activities.

Dexamethasone suppresses peripheral prostanoid levels without analgesia in a clinical model of acute inflammation

PURPOSE

The therapeutic effects of glucocorticoids are generally attributed to suppression of multiple signaling pathways involved in the inflammatory response leading to decreased levels of inflammatory mediators at the site of injury. This study evaluated the in vivo relationship between levels of prostanoids at the site of tissue injury and analgesia after dexamethasone administration in a clinical model of tissue injury.

METHODS

Subjects were administered dexamethasone 4 mg or placebo 12 hours and 1 hour before the removal of 2 mandibular third molars. A microdialysis probe was implanted at each surgical site for measurement of immunoreactive prostaglandin E2 (PGE(2)) or immunoreactive thromboxane B(2) (TxB(2)), and pain was measured concurrently. Subjects received either ketorolac 30 mg intravenously or placebo at pain onset.

RESULTS

PGE(2) was detectable in the first postoperative sample, decreased over the next hour and then increased coincident with the onset of postoperative pain. Administration of dexamethasone suppressed PGE(2) levels in samples collected at pain onset in comparison to placebo and significantly suppressed TxB(2) at the surgical site but without any effect on pain report. Subsequent administration of ketorolac significantly reduced pain while decreasing both PGE(2) and TxB(2) levels at the surgical site.

CONCLUSION

The lack of an analgesic effect for dexamethasone while reducing both PGE(2) and TxB(2) at the site of injury in comparison to ketorolac analgesia accompanied by greater reductions in levels of these prostanoids suggests that glucocorticoids at this dose do not suppress PGE(2) release sufficiently to attenuate peripheral sensitization of nociceptors after tissue injury.

A complex signaling cascade links the serotonin2A receptor to phospholipase A2 activation: the involvement of MAP kinases

Previous studies in our laboratory have shown that in NIH3T3-5HT2A cells, 5-HT-induced AA release is PLA2-coupled and independent of 5-HT2A receptor-mediated PLC activation. Although 5-HT2A receptor-mediated PLC activation is known to be Galphaq-coupled, much less is understood about 5-HT2A receptor-mediated PLA2 activation. Therefore, the studies presented here were aimed at elucidating the signal transduction pathway linking stimulation of the 5-HT2A receptor to PLA2 activation. By employing various selective inhibitors, toxins, and antagonistic peptide constructs, we propose that the 5-HT2A receptor can couple to PLA2 activation through two parallel signaling cascades. Initial experiments were designed to examine the role of pertussis toxin-sensitive G proteins, namely Galphai/o, as well as pertussis toxin-insensitive G proteins, namely Galpha12/13, in 5-HT-induced AA release. Furthermore, inactivation of both Gbetagamma heterodimers and Rho proteins resulted in decreased agonist-induced AA release, without having any effect on PLC-IP accumulation. We also demonstrated 5-HT2A receptor-mediated phosphorylation of ERK1,2 and p38. Moreover, pretreatment with selective ERK1,2 and p38 inhibitors resulted in decreased 5-HT-induced AA release. Taken together, these results suggest that the 5-HT2A receptor expressed in NIH3T3 cells can couple to PLA2 activation though a complex signaling mechanism involving both Galphai/o-associated Gbetagamma-mediated ERK1,2 activation and Galpha12/13-coupled, Rho-mediated p38 activation.

Phospholipase A(2) isoforms: a perspective

Several new PLA(2)s have been identified based on their nucleotide gene sequences. They were classified mainly into three groups: cytosolic PLA(2) (cPLA(2)), secretary PLA(2) (sPLA(2)), and intracellular PLA(2) (iPLA(2)). They differ from each other in terms of substrate specificity, Ca(2+) requirement and lipid modification. The questions that still remain to be addressed are the subcellular localization and differential regulation of the isoforms in various cell types and under different physiological conditions. It is required to identify the downstream events that occur upon PLA(2) activation, particularly target protein or metabolic pathway for liberated arachidonic acid or other fatty acids. Understanding the same will greatly help in the development of potent and specific pharmacological modulators that can be used for basic research and clinical applications. The information of the human and other genomes of PLA(2)s, combined with the use of proteomics and genetically manipulated mouse models of different diseases, will illuminate us about the specific and potentially overlapping roles of individual phospholipases as mediators of physiological and pathological processes. Hopefully, such understanding will enable the development of specific agents aimed at decreasing the potential contribution of individual secretary phospholipases to vascular diseases. The signaling cascades involved in the activation of cPLA(2) by mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) is now evident. It has been demonstrated that p44 MAPK phosphorylates cPLA(2) and increases its activity in cells and tissues. The phosphorylation of cPLA(2) at ser505 occurs before the increase in intracellular Ca(2+) that facilitate the binding of the lipid binding domain of cPLA(2) to phospholipids, promoting its translocation to cellular membranes and AA release. Recently, a negative feed back loop for cPLA(2) activation by MAPK has been proposed. If PLA(2) activation in a given model depends on PKC, PKA, cAMP, or MAPK then inhibition of these phosphorylating enzymes may alter activities of PLA(2) isoforms during cellular injury. Understanding the signaling pathways involved in the activation/deactivation of PLA(2) during cellular injury will point to key events that can be used to prevent the cellular injury. Furthermore, to date, there is limited information available regarding the regulation of iPLA(2) or sPLA(2) by these pathways.

Secretory phospholipases A2 as multivalent mediators of inflammatory and allergic disorders

Phospholipases A(2) (PLA(2)s) are enzymes responsible for mobilization of fatty acids, including arachidonic acid (AA), from phospholipids. These enzymes are classified as high-molecular-weight cytosolic PLA(2)s (cPLA(2)s) and low-molecular-weight secretory PLA(2)s (sPLA(2)s). There is increasing evidence that large quantities of sPLA(2)s are released in the plasma of patients with systemic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. In addition, high levels of sPLA(2)s can be detected at sites of allergic inflammation including the upper airways of patients with rhinitis and the lower airways of patients with asthma. These extracellular enzymes play an important role in inflammation by releasing AA, which can be subsequently converted to proinflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Generation of AA mediated by sPLA(2)s occurs through different mechanisms, including (1) the direct hydrolysis of outer cell membrane phospholipids, (2) internalization and transfer of sPLA(2)s to intracellular pools of phospholipids enriched in AA, and (3) activation of cPLA(2)s. In addition, sPLA(2)s induce degranulation and production of cytokines and chemokines from a variety of cells involved in inflammatory and immune responses. These effects are exerted by mechanisms that are independent of the enzymatic activity and are mediated by the interaction of sPLA(2)s with specific or promiscuous membrane receptors. Therefore, sPLA(2)s may have an important role in inflammatory and allergic reactions by activating multiple mechanisms within inflammatory and immune cells, leading to the production of eicosanoids, cytokines and chemokines.

Cellular arachidonate-releasing function of novel classes of secretory phospholipase A2s (groups III and XII)

Here we report cellular arachidonate (AA) release and prostaglandin (PG) production by novel classes of secretory phospholipase A(2)s (sPLA(2)s), groups III and XII. Human group III sPLA(2) promoted spontaneous AA release, which was augmented by interleukin-1, in HEK293 transfectants. The central sPLA(2) domain alone was sufficient for its in vitro enzymatic activity and for cellular AA release at the plasma membrane, whereas either the unique N- or C-terminal domain was required for heparanoid-dependent action on cells to augment AA release, cyclooxygenase-2 induction, and PG production. Group III sPLA(2) was constitutively expressed in two human cell lines, in which other sPLA(2)s exhibited different stimulus inducibility. Human group XII sPLA(2) had a weak enzymatic activity in vitro and minimally affects cellular AA release and PG production. Cells transfected with group XII sPLA(2) exhibited abnormal morphology, suggesting a unique functional aspect of this enzyme. Based on the present results as well as our current analyses on the group I/II/V/X sPLA(2)s, general properties of cellular actions of a full set of mammalian sPLA(2)s in regulating AA metabolism are discussed.

Secretory phospholipases A2 activate selective functions in human eosinophils

Secretory phospholipases A(2) (sPLA(2)s) are released in large amounts in the blood of patients with systemic inflammatory diseases and accumulate at sites of chronic inflammation, such as the airways of patients with bronchial asthma. Blood eosinophils or eosinophils recruited in inflammatory areas therefore can be exposed in vivo to high concentrations of sPLA(2). We have examined the effects of two structurally different sPLA(2)s (group IA and group IIA) on several functions of eosinophils isolated from normal donors and patients with hypereosinophilia. Both group IA and IIA sPLA(2) induced a concentration-dependent release of beta-glucuronidase, IL-6, and IL-8. Release of the two cytokines was associated with the accumulation of their specific mRNA. In addition, sPLA(2)s induced the surface expression of CD44 and CD69, two major activation markers of eosinophils. In contrast, none of the sPLA(2)s examined induced the production of IL-5, the de novo synthesis of leukotriene C(4) and platelet-activating factor, or the generation of superoxide anion from human eosinophils. Incubation of eosinophils with the major enzymatic products of the sPLA(2)s (arachidonic acid, lysophosphatidylcholine, or lysophosphatidic acid) did not reproduce any of the enzymes' effects. In addition, inactivation of sPLA(2) enzymatic activity by bromophenacyl bromide did not influence the release of beta-glucuronidase or of cytokines. Stimulation of eosinophils by sPLA(2)s was associated with activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2. These results indicate that sPLA(2)s selectively activate certain proinflammatory and immunoregulatory functions of human eosinophils through mechanism(s) independent from enzymatic activity and from the generation of arachidonic acid.

Comparison of the activities of wild type and mutant enhancing factor/mouse secretory phospholipase A2 proteins

Enhancing factor (EF) protein, an isoform of secretory phospholipase A2 (PLA2), was purified as a modulator of epidermal growth factor from the small intestine of the Balb/c mouse. It was for the first time that a growth modulatory property of sPLA2 was demonstrated. Deletion mutation analysis of EF cDNA carried out in our laboratory showed that enhancing activity and phospholipase activity are two separate activities that reside in the same molecule. In order to study the specific amino acids involved in each of these activities, two site-directed mutants of EF were made and expressed in vitro. Comparison of enhancing activity as well as phospholipase A2 activity of these mutant proteins with that of wild type protein helped in identification of some of the residues important for both the activities

Prostanoids and pain: unraveling mechanisms and revealing therapeutic targets

Advances in our understanding of the synthesis, regulation and function of prostanoids have led to a new appreciation of their actions in health and disease. Prostanoid synthesis is essential for the generation of inflammatory pain and this depends not only on prostanoid production at the site of inflammation, but also on the actions of prostanoids synthesized within the central nervous system (CNS). Moreover, central prostanoid synthesis is controlled both by neural and humoral signals, the latter being a novel form of input to the CNS. Diverse compounds that act along the pathway of prostanoid synthesis and action, both in the periphery and in the CNS, might provide increased benefit for treating inflammatory pain hypersensitivity and its associated sickness syndrome, with a reduced risk of adverse effects.

Phospholipase A2 enzymes

Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) catalyzes the hydrolysis of the sn-2 position of membrane glycerophospholipids to liberate arachidonic acid (AA), a precursor of eicosanoids including prostaglandins and leukotrienes. The same reaction also produces lysophosholipids, which represent another class of lipid mediators. So far, at least 19 enzymes that possess PLA2 activity have been identified and cloned in mammals. The secretory PLA2 (sPLA2) family, in which 10 isozymes have been identified, consists of low-molecular weight, Ca2+-requiring secretory enzymes that have been implicated in a number of biological processes, such as modification of eicosanoid generation, inflammation, and host defense. The cytosolic PLA2 (cPLA2) family consists of three enzymes, among which cPLA2alpha has been paid much attention by researchers as an essential component of the initiation of AA metabolism. The activation of cPLA2alpha is tightly regulated by Ca2+ and phosphorylation. The Ca2+-independent PLA2 (iPLA2) family contains two enzymes and may play a major role in phospholipid remodeling. The platelet-activating factor (PAF) acetylhydrolase (PAF-AH) family contains four enzymes that exhibit unique substrate specificity toward PAF and/or oxidized phospholipids. Degradation of these bioactive phospholipids by PAF-AHs may lead to the termination of inflammatory reaction and atherosclerosis.

Dopamine D(2) receptor-induced COX-2-mediated production of prostaglandin E(2) in D(2)-transfected Chinese hamster ovary cells without simultaneous administration of a Ca(2+)-mobilizing agent

We have earlier demonstrated that dopamine stimulates the liberation of the prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) precursor, arachidonic acid, in Chinese hamster ovary cells transfected with the rat dopamine D(2) receptor (long isoform), also without concomitant administration of a Ca(2+)-releasing agent [Nilsson et al., Br J Pharmacol 1998;124:1651-8]. In the present report, we show that dopamine, under the same conditions, also induces a concentration-dependent increase in the production of PGE(2), with a maximal effect of 235% at approximately 100 microM, and with an EC(50) of 794 nM. The effect was counteracted by the D(2) antagonist eticlopride, pertussis toxin, the inhibitor of intracellular Ca(2+) release TMB-8, incubation in Ca(2+)-free experimental medium, and PKC desensitization obtained by chronic pretreatment with the phorbol ester TPA. It was also antagonized by the non-specific cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor, indomethacin, and by the selective COX-2 inhibitor, NS-398, but not by the specific COX-1 inhibitor, valeryl salicylate. Both the non-specific phospholipase A(2) inhibitor, quinacrine, and an inhibitor of cPLA(2) and iPLA(2), AACOF3, counteracted the effect; in contrast, a selective iPLA(2) inhibitor, BEL, and a selective sPLA(2) inhibitor, TAPC, were ineffective. No effects of dopamine were obtained in control cells mock-transfected with the p3C vector only. The results reinforce previous assumptions that dopamine may interact with eicosanoid metabolism by means of D(2) receptor activation, and implicate an involvement of cPLA(2) and COX-2 in this effect. It is suggested that measurement of dopamine-induced PGE(2) production may serve as a convenient way to study D(2) receptor function in vitro.

Group IID heparin-binding secretory phospholipase A(2) is expressed in human colon carcinoma cells and human mast cells and up-regulated in mouse inflammatory tissues

Group IID secretory phospholipase A(2) (sPLA(2)-IID), a heparin-binding sPLA(2) that is closely related to sPLA(2)-IIA, augments stimulus-induced cellular arachidonate release in a manner similar to sPLA(2)-IIA. Here we identified the residues of sPLA(2)-IID that are responsible for heparanoid binding, are and therefore essential for cellular function. Mutating four cationic residues in the C-terminal portion of sPLA(2)-IID resulted in abolition of its ability to associate with cell surface heparan sulfate and to enhance stimulus-induced delayed arachidonate release, cyclooxygenase-2 induction, and prostaglandin generation in 293 cell transfectants. As compared with several other group II subfamily sPLA(2)s, which were equally active on A23187- and IL-1-primed cellular membranes, sPLA(2)-IID showed apparent preference for A23187-primed membranes. Several human colon carcinoma cell lines expressed sPLA(2)-IID and sPLA(2)-X constitutively, the former of which was negatively regulated by IL-1. sPLA(2)-IID, but not other sPLA(2) isozymes, was expressed in human cord blood-derived mast cells. The expression of sPLA(2)-IID was significantly altered in several tissues of mice with experimental inflammation. These results indicate that sPLA(2)-IID may be involved in inflammation in cell- and tissue-specific manners under particular conditions.

Cellular arachidonate-releasing function and inflammation-associated expression of group IIF secretory phospholipase A2

Here we report the cellular arachidonate (AA)-releasing function of group IIF secretory phospholipase A(2) (sPLA(2)-IIF), a sPLA(2) enzyme uniquely containing a longer C-terminal extension. sPLA(2)-IIF increased spontaneous and stimulus-dependent release of AA, which was supplied to downstream cyclooxygenases and 5-lipoxygenase for eicosanoid production. sPLA(2)-IIF also enhanced interleukin 1-stimulated expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and microsomal prostaglandin E synthase. AA release by sPLA(2)-IIF was facilitated by oxidative modification of cellular membranes. Cellular actions of sPLA(2)-IIF occurred independently of the heparan sulfate proteoglycan glypican, which acts as a functional adaptor for other group II subfamily sPLA(2)s. Confocal microscopy revealed the location of sPLA(2)-IIF on the plasma membrane. The unique C-terminal extension was crucial for its plasma membrane localization and optimal cellular functions. sPLA(2)-IIF expression was increased in various tissues from lipopolysaccharide-treated mice and in ears of mice with experimental atopic dermatitis. In human rheumatoid arthritic joints, sPLA(2)-IIF was detected in synovial lining cells, capillary endothelial cells, and plasma cells. These results suggest that sPLA(2)-IIF is a potent regulator of AA metabolism and participates in the inflammatory process under certain conditions.

Arachidonate release and eicosanoid generation by group IIE phospholipase A(2)

The heparin-binding group II subfamily of secretory phospholipase A(2)s (sPLA(2)s), such as sPLA(2)-IIA and -IID, augments stimulus-induced arachidonic acid (AA) release through the cellular heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG)-dependent pathway when transfected into HEK293 cells. Here we show that the closest homolog, sPLA(2)-IIE, also promotes stimulus-induced AA release and prostaglandin (PG) production similar to those elicited by HSPG-dependent sPLA(2)s. Confocal laser microscopic analysis demonstrates the location of sPLA(2)-IIE in cytoplasmic punctate compartments. sPLA(2)-IIE also enhances leukotriene (LT) production and granule exocytosis by RBL-2H3 mastocytoma cells. Expression of sPLA(2)-IIE was highly upregulated in mice injected with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and in mice with experimental atopic dermatitis. These observations suggest that this enzyme plays a role in the inflammatory process, as proposed for other group II subfamily sPLA(2)s.

Human neutrophil migration in vitro induced by secretory phospholipases A2: a role for cell surface glycosaminoglycans

The purpose of this study was to examine the ability of type I- (porcine pancreas and Naja mocambique mocambique venom), type II- (bothropstoxin-I, bothropstoxin-II, and piratoxin-I), and type III- (Apis mellifera venom) secretory phospholipases A2 (sPLA2s) to induce human neutrophil chemotaxis, and the role of the cell surface proteoglycans, leukotriene B4 (LTB4), and platelet-activating factor (PAF), in mediating this migration. The neutrophil chemotaxis assays were performed by using a 48-well microchemotaxis chamber. Piratoxin-I, bothropstoxin-I, N. m. mocambique venom PLA2 (10-1000 microg/mL each), bothropstoxin-II (30-1000 microg/mL), porcine pancreas PLA2 (0.3-30 microg/mL), and A. mellifera venom PLA2 (30-300 microg/mL) caused concentration-dependent neutrophil chemotaxis. Heparin (10-300 U/mL) concentration-dependently inhibited the neutrophil migration induced by piratoxin-I, bothropstoxin-II, and N. m. mocambique and A. mellifera venom PLA2s (100 microg/mL each), but failed to affect the migration induced by porcine pancreas PLA2. Heparan sulfate (300 and 1000 microg/mL) inhibited neutrophil migration induced by piratoxin-I, whereas dermatan sulfate and chondroitin sulfate (30-1000 microg/mL each) had no effect. Heparitinase I and heparinase (300 mU/mL each) inhibited by 41.5 and 47%, respectively, piratoxin-I-induced chemotaxis, whereas heparitinase II and chondroitinase AC failed to affect the chemotaxis. The PAF receptor antagonist WEB 2086 (3-[4-(2-chlorophenyl)-9-methyl-6H-thienol-[3,2-f] -triazolo-[4,3-a] -diazepine-2-yl]-1-(4-morpholynil)-1-propionate) (0.1-10 microM) and the LTB4 synthesis inhibitor AA-861 [2-(12-hydroxydodeca-5,10-diynyl)-3,5,6-trimethyl-1,4-benzoquinone] (0.1-10 microM) significantly inhibited the piratoxin-I-induced chemotaxis. Piratoxin-I (30-300 microg/mL) caused a concentration-dependent release of LTB4. Our results suggest that neutrophil migration in response to sPLA2s is independent of PLA activity, and involves an interaction of sPLA2s with cell surface heparin/heparan binding sites triggering the release of LTB4 and PAF.

Induction of cyclooxygenase-2 synthesis by ligation of the macrophage alpha(2)-macroglobulin signalling receptor

We have studied the induction of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in macrophages consequent to ligating the alpha(2)-macroglobulin (alpha(2)M) signalling receptor (alpha(2)MSR) with receptor-recognized forms of alpha(2)M (alpha(2)M*). Macrophage stimulation with alpha(2)M* increased total cellular and nuclear COX-2 two- to threefold. The maximal increase in COX-2 occurred at a ligand concentration of 50-100 pM and after 2 h. Modulation of intracellular Ca(2+) levels or incubation of [35S] methionine-labelled macrophages with actinomycin D, prior to treatment with alpha(2)M*, markedly reduced the induction of total cellular and nuclear COX-2. Protein kinase C (PKC) or phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) inhibition in alpha(2)M*-stimulated macrophages or inhibition of the p21(ras)-dependent mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase) signalling pathways also significantly reduced alpha(2)M*-induced total cellular and nuclear COX-2 expression. Thus, COX-2 induction is dependent on cPLA(2) activity, Ca(2+) mobilization, and PKC activity and requires participation of both the p21(ras)-dependent MAPK and PI 3-kinase signalling pathways. COX-2 activation may mediate alpha(2)M*-induced mitogenesis, which we have previously observed in this and other cell types.