The role of pp60c-src in the regulation of calcium entry via store-operated calcium channels

The functions of store-operated calcium channels

Store-operated calcium channels provide calcium signals to the cytoplasm of a wide variety of cell types. The basic components of this signaling mechanism include a mechanism for discharging Ca²⁺ stores (commonly but not exclusively phospholipase C and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate), a sensor in the endoplasmic reticulum that also serves as an activator of the plasma membrane channel (STIM1 and STIM2), and the store-operated channel (Orai1, 2 or 3). The advent of mice genetically altered to reduce store-operated calcium entry globally or in specific cell types has provided important tools to understand the functions of these widely encountered channels in specific and clinically important physiological systems. This review briefly discusses the history and cellular properties of store-operated calcium channels, and summarizes selected studies of their physiological functions in specific physiological or pathological contexts. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: ECS Meeting edited by Claus Heizmann, Joachim Krebs and Jacques Haiech.

Src-family tyrosine kinases and the Ca2+ signal

In this review, we shall describe the rich crosstalk between non-receptor Src-family kinases (SFKs) and the Ca²⁺ transient generated in activated cells by a variety of extracellular and intracellular stimuli, resulting in diverse signaling events. The exchange of information between SFKs and Ca²⁺ is reciprocal, as it flows in both directions. These kinases are main actors in pathways leading to the generation of the Ca²⁺ signal, and reciprocally, the Ca²⁺ signal modulates SFKs activity and functions. We will cover how SFKs participate in the generation of the cytosolic Ca²⁺ rise upon activation of a series of receptors and the mechanism of clearance of this Ca²⁺ signal. The role of SFKs modulating Ca²⁺-translocating channels participating in these events will be amply discussed. Finally, the role of the Ca²⁺ sensor protein calmodulin on the activity of c-Src, and potentially on other SFKs, will be outlined as well. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: ECS Meeting edited by Claus Heizmann, Joachim Krebs and Jacques Haiech.

ERK1/2 activation in human taste bud cells regulates fatty acid signaling and gustatory perception of fat in mice and humans

Obesity is a major public health problem. An in-depth knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of oro-sensory detection of dietary lipids may help fight it. Humans and rodents can detect fatty acids via lipido-receptors, such as CD36 and GPR120. We studied the implication of the MAPK pathways, in particular, ERK1/2, in the gustatory detection of fatty acids. Linoleic acid, a dietary fatty acid, induced via CD36 the phosphorylation of MEK1/2-ERK1/2-ETS-like transcription factor-1 cascade, which requires Fyn-Src kinase and lipid rafts in human taste bud cells (TBCs). ERK1/2 cascade was activated by Ca2+ signaling via opening of the calcium-homeostasis modulator-1 (CALHM1) channel. Furthermore, fatty acid-evoked Ca2+ signaling and ERK1/2 phosphorylation were decreased in both human TBCs after small interfering RNA knockdown of CALHM1 channel and in TBCs from Calhm1-/- mice. Targeted knockdown of ERK1/2 by small interfering RNA or PD0325901 (MEK1/2 inhibitor) in the tongue and genetic ablation of Erk1 or Calhm1 genes impaired preference for dietary fat in mice. Lingual inhibition of ERK1/2 in healthy volunteers also decreased orogustatory sensitivity for linoleic acid. Our data demonstrate that ERK1/2-MAPK cascade is regulated by the opening of CALHM1 Ca2+ channel in TBCs to modulate orogustatory detection of dietary lipids in mice and humans.-Subramaniam, S., Ozdener, M. H., Abdoul-Azize, S., Saito, K., Malik, B., Maquart, G., Hashimoto, T., Marambaud, P., Aribi, M., Tordoff, M. G., Besnard, P., Khan, N. A. ERK1/2 activation in human taste bud cells regulates fatty acid signaling and gustatory perception of fat in mice and humans.

Airway Epithelial Cell Integrity Protects from Cytotoxicity of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Quorum-Sensing Signals

Cell-to-cell communication via gap junctions regulates airway epithelial cell homeostasis and maintains the epithelium host defense. Quorum-sensing molecules produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa coordinate the expression of virulence factors by this respiratory pathogen. These bacterial signals may also incidentally modulate mammalian airway epithelial cell responses to the pathogen, a process called interkingdom signaling. We investigated the interactions between the P. aeruginosa N-3-oxo-dodecanoyl-L-homoserine lactone (C12) quorum-sensing molecule and human airway epithelial cell gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC). C12 degradation and its effects on cells were monitored in various airway epithelial cell models grown under nonpolarized and polarized conditions. Its concentration was further monitored in daily tracheal aspirates of colonized intubated patients. C12 rapidly altered epithelial integrity and decreased GJIC in nonpolarized airway epithelial cells, whereas other quorum-sensing molecules had no effect. The effects of C12 were dependent on [Ca(2+)]i and could be prevented by inhibitors of Src tyrosine family and Rho-associated protein kinases. In contrast, polarized airway cells grown on Transwell filters were protected from C12 except when undergoing repair after wounding. In vivo during colonization of intubated patients, C12 did not accumulate, but it paralleled bacterial densities. In vitro C12 degradation, a reaction catalyzed by intracellular paraoxonase 2 (PON2), was impaired in nonpolarized cells, whereas PON2 expression was increased during epithelial polarization. The cytotoxicity of C12 on nonpolarized epithelial cells, combined with its impaired degradation allowing its accumulation, provides an additional pathogenic mechanism for P. aeruginosa infections.

Structure-function of CD36 and importance of fatty acid signal transduction in fat metabolism

CD36 (cluster of differentiation 36) is a scavenger receptor that functions in high-affinity tissue uptake of long-chain fatty acids (FAs) and contributes under excessive fat supply to lipid accumulation and metabolic dysfunction. This review describes recent evidence regarding the CD36 FA binding site and a potential mechanism for FA transfer. It also presents the view that CD36 and FA signaling coordinate fat utilization, a view that is based on newly identified CD36 actions that involve oral fat perception, intestinal fat absorption, secretion of the peptides cholecystokinin and secretin, regulation of hepatic lipoprotein output, activation of beta oxidation by muscle, and regulation of the production of the FA-derived bioactive eicosanoids. Thus abnormalities of fat metabolism and the associated pathology might involve dysfunction of CD36-mediated signal transduction in addition to the changes in FA uptake.

Cell signaling mechanisms of oro-gustatory detection of dietary fat: advances and challenges

CD36 and two G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR), i.e., GPR120 and GPR40, have been implicated in the gustatory perception of dietary fats in rodents. These glycoproteins are coupled to increases in free intracellular Ca²⁺ concentrations, [Ca²⁺](i), during their activation by dietary long-chain fatty acids (LCFA). The transient receptor potential type M5 (TRPM5) channel, activated by [Ca²⁺](i), participates in downstream signaling in taste bud cells (TBC). The mice, knocked-out for expression of CD36, GPR120, GPR40 or TRPM5 have a reduced spontaneous preference for fat. The delayed rectifying K⁺ (DRK) channels believed to lie downstream of these receptors are also important players in fat taste transduction. The trigeminal neurons by triggering increases in [Ca²⁺](i) may influence the taste signal to afferent nerve fibers. Why are there so many taste receptor candidates for one taste modality? We discuss the recent advances on the role of CD36, GPR120, GPR40, TRPM5 and DRK channels, in signal transduction in TBC. We shed light on their cross-talk and delineate their roles in obesity as a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind their regulation could eventually lead to new strategies to fight against this condition.

Enhanced Ca2+Entry and Tyrosine Phosphorylation Mediate Nanostructure-Induced Endothelial Proliferation

Nanostructured substrates have been recognized to initiate transcriptional programs promoting cell proliferation. Specifically β-catenin has been identified as transcriptional regulator, activated by adhesion to nanostructures. We set out to identify processes responsible for nanostructure-induced endothelial β-catenin signaling. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of cell contacts to differently sized polyethylene terephthalate (PET) surface structures (ripples with 250 to 300 nm and walls with 1.5 μm periodicity) revealed different patterns of cell-substrate interactions. Cell adhesion to ripples occurred exclusively on ripple peaks, while cells were attached to walls continuously. The Src kinase inhibitor PP2 was active only in cells grown on ripples, while the Abl inhibitors dasatinib and imatinib suppressed β-catenin translocation on both structures. Moreover, Gd³⁺ sensitive Ca²⁺ entry was observed in response to mechanical stimulation or Ca²⁺ store depletion exclusively in cells grown on ripples. Both PP2 and Gd³⁺ suppressed β-catenin nuclear translocation along with proliferation in cells grown on ripples but not on walls. Our results suggest that adhesion of endothelial cells to ripple structured PET induces highly specific, interface topology-dependent changes in cellular signalling, characterized by promotion of Gd³⁺ -sensitive Ca²⁺ entry and Src/Abl activation. We propose that these signaling events are crucially involved in nanostructure-induced promotion of cell proliferation.

Ca2+ signaling in taste bud cells and spontaneous preference for fat: unresolved roles of CD36 and GPR120

Recent compelling evidences from rodent and human studies raise the possibility for an additional sixth taste modality devoted to oro-gustatory perception of dietary lipids. Understanding the mechanisms underlying oro-gustatory detection of dietary fat is critical for the prevention and treatment of obesity. A number of studies have suggested that lingual CD36, a glycoprotein, highly expressed by circumvallate papillae of the tongue, is implicated in the perception of dietary fat taste. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are important signaling molecules for many aspects of cellular functions. It has been shown that these receptors, particularly GPR120, are also involved in lipid taste perception. We have shown that dietary long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs), in CD36-positive taste bud cells (TBC), induce increases in free intracellular Ca(2+) concentrations, [Ca(2+)]i, by recruiting Ca(2+) from endoplasmic reticulum (ER) pool via inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate production, followed by Ca(2+) influx via opening of store-operated Ca(2+) (SOC) channels. GPR120 is also coupled to increases in [Ca(2+)]i by dietary fatty acids. We observed that stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), a sensor of Ca(2+) depletion in the ER, mediated fatty acid-induced Ca(2+) signaling and spontaneous preference for fat in the mouse. In this review article, we discuss the recent advances and unresolved roles of CD36 and GPR120 in lipid taste signaling in taste bud cells.

Store-operated Ca2+ entry in hippocampal neurons: Regulation by protein tyrosine phosphatase PTP1B

Store operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) replenishes intracellular Ca(2+) stores and activates a number of intracellular signalling pathways. Whilst several molecular components forming store operated Ca(2+) channels (SOCC) have been identified, their modulation in neurons remains poorly understood. Here, we extend on our previous findings and show that neuronal SOCE is modulated by tyrosine phosphorylation. Cyclopiazonic acid induced SOCE was characterised in hippocampal cultures derived from forebrain specific protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B knockout (PTP1B KO) mice and wild type (WT) litter mates using Fura-2 Ca(2+) imaging. PTP1B KO cultures expressed elevated SOCE relative to WT cultures without changes in cytoplasmic Ca(2+) homeostasis or depolarisation-induced Ca(2+) influx. WT and PTP1B KO cultures displayed similar pharmacological sensitivities towards the SOCE inhibitors gadolinium and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, as well as the tyrosine kinase inhibitor Ag126 indicating an augmentation of native SOCCs by PTP1B. Following store depletion WT culture homogenates showed heightened phospho-tyrosine levels, an increase in Src tyrosine kinase activation and two minor PTP1B species. These data suggest tyrosine phosphorylation gating SOCE, and implicate PTP1B as a key regulatory enzyme. The involvement of PTP1B in SOCE and its relation to SOCC components and mechanism of regulation are discussed.

CD36 protein is involved in store-operated calcium flux, phospholipase A2 activation, and production of prostaglandin E2

The scavenger receptor FAT/CD36 contributes to the inflammation associated with diabetes, atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and Alzheimer disease. Underlying mechanisms include CD36 promotion of oxidative stress and its signaling to stress kinases. Here we document an additional mechanism for the role of CD36 in inflammation. CD36 regulates membrane calcium influx in response to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, release of arachidonic acid (AA) from cellular membranes by cytoplasmic phospholipase A(2)α (cPLA(2)α) and contributes to the generation of proinflammatory eicosanoids. CHO cells stably expressing human CD36 released severalfold more AA and prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), a major product of AA metabolism by cyclooxygenases, in response to thapsigargin-induced ER stress as compared with control cells. Calcium influx after ER calcium release resulted in phosphorylation of cPLA(2) and its translocation to membranes in a CD36-dependent manner. Peritoneal macrophages from CD36(-/-) mice exhibited diminished calcium transients and reduced AA release after thapsigargin or UTP treatment with decreased ERK1/2 and cPLA(2) phosphorylation. However, PGE(2) production was unexpectedly enhanced in CD36(-/-) macrophages, which probably resulted from a large induction of cyclooxygenase 2 mRNA and protein. The data demonstrate participation of CD36 in membrane calcium influx in response to ER stress or purinergic receptor stimulation resulting in AA liberation for PGE(2) formation. Collectively, these results identify a mechanism contributing to the pleiotropic proinflammatory effects of CD36 and suggest that its targeted inhibition may reduce the acute inflammatory response.

Intracellular Ca2+ stores modulate SOCCs and NMDA receptors via tyrosine kinases in rat hippocampal neurons

The regulation of intracellular Ca(2+) signalling by phosphorylation processes remains poorly defined, particularly with regards to tyrosine phosphorylation. Evidence from non-excitable cells implicates tyrosine phosphorylation in the activation of so-called store-operated Ca(2+) channels (SOCCs), but their involvement in neuronal Ca(2+) signalling is still elusive. In the present study, we determined the role of protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) and tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) in the coupling between intracellular Ca(2+) stores and SOCCs in neonatal rat hippocampal neurons by Fura-2 Ca(2+) imaging. An early Ca(2+) response from intracellular stores was triggered with thapsigargin, and followed by a secondary plasma membrane Ca(2+) response. This phase was blocked by the non-specific Ca(2+) channel blocker NiCl and the SOCC blocker, 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB). Interestingly, two structurally distinct PTK inhibitors, genistein and AG126, also inhibited this secondary response. Application of the PTP inhibitor sodium orthovanadate (OV) also activated a sustained and tyrosine kinase dependent Ca(2+) response, blocked by NiCl and 2-APB. In addition, OV resulted in a Ca(2+) store dependent enhancement of NMDA responses, corresponding to, and occluding the signalling pathway for group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). This study provides first evidence for tyrosine based phospho-regulation of SOCCs and NMDA signalling in neurons.

Activation of TRPC6 calcium channels by diacylglycerol (DAG)-containing arachidonic acid: A comparative study with DAG-containing docosahexaenoic acid

We synthesized a diacylglycerol (DAG)-containing arachidonic acid, i.e., 1-stearoyl-2-arachidonyl-sn-glycerol (SAG), and studied its implication in the modulation of canonical transient receptor potential sub-type 6 (TRPC6) channels in stably-transfected HEK-293 cells. SAG induced the influx of Ca(2+), and also of other bivalent cations like Ba(2+) and Sr(2+), in these cells. SAG-evoked Ca(2+) influx was not due to its metabolites as inhibitors of DAG-lipase (RHC80267) and DAG-kinase (R50922) failed to inhibit the response of the same. To emphasise that SAG exerts its action via its DAG configuration, but not due to the presence of stearic acid at sn-1 position, we synthesized 1-palmitoyl-2-arachidonyl-sn-glycerol (PAG). PAG-induced increases in [Ca(2+)](i) were not significantly different from those induced by SAG. For the comparative studies, we also synthesized the DAG-containing docosahexaenoic acid, i.e., 1-stearoyl-2-docosahexaenoyl-sn-glycerol (SDG). We observed that SDG and 1,2-dioctanoyl-sn-glycerol (DOG), a DAG analogue, also evoked increases in [Ca(2+)](i), which were lesser than those evoked by SAG. However, activation of TRPC6 channels by all the DAG molecular species (SAG, DOG and SDG) required Src kinases as the tyrosine kinase inhibitors, PP2 and SU6656, significantly attenuated the increases in [Ca(2+)](i) evoked by these agents. Moreover, disruption of lipid rafts with methyl-beta-cyclodextrin completely abolished SAG-, DOG- and SDG-induced increases in [Ca(2+)](i). The present study shows that SAG as well as SDG and DOG stimulate Ca(2+) influx through the activation of TRPC6 calcium channels which are regulated by Src kinases and intact lipid raft domains.

Calcium signalling in the endothelium

Elevations in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration are the usual initial response of endothelial cells to hormonal and chemical transmitters and to changes in physical parameters, and many endothelial functions are dependent upon changes in Ca2+ signals produced. Endothelial cell Ca2+ signalling shares similar features with other electrically non-excitable cell types, but has features unique to endothelial cells. This chapter discusses the major components of endothelial cell Ca2+ signalling.

Tyrosine kinase modulation of protein kinase C activity regulates G protein-linked Ca2+ signaling in leukemic hematopoietic cells

We have used a recombinant mouse pre-B cell line (TonB210.1, expressing Bcr/Abl under the control of an inducible promoter) and several human leukemia cell lines to study the effect of high tyrosine kinase activity on G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) agonist-stimulated cellular Ca(2+) release and store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE). After induction of Bcr/Abl expression, GPCR-linked SOCE increased. The effect was reverted in the presence of the specific Abl inhibitor imatinib (1microM) and the Src inhibitor PP2 (10microM). In leukemic cell lines constitutively expressing high tyrosine kinase activity, Ca(2+) transients were reduced by imatinib and/or PP2. Ca(2+) transients were enhanced by specific inhibitors of PKC subtypes and this effect was amplified by tyrosine kinase inhibition in Bcr/Abl expressing TonB210.1 and K562 cells. Under all conditions Ca(2+) transients were essentially blocked by the PKC activator PMA. In Bcr/Abl expressing (but not in native) TonB210.1 cells, tyrosine kinase inhibitors enhanced PKCalpha catalytic activity and PKCalpha co-immunoprecipitated with Bcr/Abl. Unlike native TonB210.1 cells, Bcr/Abl expressing cells showed a high rate of cell death if Ca(2+) influx was reduced by complexing extracellular Ca(2+) with BAPTA. Our data suggest that tonic inhibition of PKC represents a mechanism by which high tyrosine kinase activity can enhance cellular Ca(2+) transients and thus exert profound effects on the proliferation, apoptosis and chemotaxis of leukemic cells.

Role of Src in C3 transient receptor potential channel function and evidence for a heterogeneous makeup of receptor- and store-operated Ca2+ entry channels

Receptor-operated Ca2+ entry (ROCE) and store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) are known to be inhibited by tyrosine kinase inhibitors and activation of C-type transient receptor potential channel (TRPC) isoform 3 (TRPC3), a cation channel thought to be involved in SOCE and/or ROCE, was recently shown to depend on src tyrosine kinase activity. What is not known is the step at which src acts on TRPC3 and whether the role for tyrosine kinases in ROCE or SOCE is a general phenomenon. Using in vitro and in cell protein-protein interaction assays we now report that src phosphorylates TRPC3 at Y226 and that formation of phospho-Y226 is essential for TRPC3 activation. This requirement is unique for TRPC3 because (i) mutation of the cognate tyrosines of the closely related TRPC6 and TRPC7 had no effect; (ii) TRPC6 and TRPC7 were activated in src-, yes-, and fyn-deficient cells; and (iii) src, but not yes or fyn, rescued TRPC3 activation in src-, yes-, and fyn-deficient cells. The Src homology 2 domain of src was found to interact with either the N or the C termini of all TRPCs, suggesting that other tyrosine kinases may play a role in ion fluxes mediated by TRPCs other than TRPC3. A side-by-side comparison of the effects of genistein (a general tyrosine kinase inhibitor) on endogenous ROCE and SOCE in mouse fibroblasts, HEK and COS-7 cells, and ROCE in HEK cells mediated by TRPC3, TRPC6, TRPC7, and TRPC5 showed differences that argue for ROCE and SOCE channels to be heterogeneous.

Early caspase-3 activation independent of apoptosis is required for cellular function

A number of pro-apoptotic stimuli induce the activation of caspase-9, an initiator protease that activates executioner caspases, such as caspase-3, leading to the development of programmed cell death. Here we demonstrate that cell (platelets and pancreatic acinar cells) stimulation with agonists induces a bimodal activation of caspase-3. The early caspase-3 activation occurs within 1 min of stimulation and is independent on caspase-9 or mitochondrial cytochrome c release suggesting that is a non-apoptotic event. The ability of agonists to induce early activation of caspase-3 is similar to that observed for other physiological processes. Activation of caspase-3 by physiological concentrations of cellular agonists, including thrombin or CCK-8, is independent of rises in cytosolic calcium concentration but requires PKC activation, and is necessary for agonist-induced activation of the tyrosine kinases Btk and pp60src and for several cellular functions, including store-operated calcium entry, platelet aggregation, or pancreatic secretion. Thus, early activation of caspase-3 seems to be a non-apoptotic event required for cellular function.

Tyrosine kinase and mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellularly regulated kinase differentially regulate intracellular calcium concentration responses to angiotensin II/III and bradykinin in rat cortical thick ascending limb

The cortical thick ascending limb (CTAL) coexpresses angiotensin (Ang) II/Ang III receptor type 1A (AT(1A)-R) and bradykinin (BK) receptor type 2 (B2-R). In several cell types, these two receptors share the same signaling pathways, although their physiological functions are often opposite. In CTAL, little is known about the intracellular transduction events leading to the final physiological response induced by these two peptides. We investigated and compared in this segment the action of Ang II/III and BK on intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) response and metabolic CO2 production, an index of Na+ transport, by using inhibitors of protein kinase C (bisindolylmaleimide), Src tyrosine kinase (herbimycin A and PP2), and MAPK/ERK (PD98059 and UO126). Ang II/III and BK (10(-7) mol/liter) released Ca2+ from the same intracellular pools but activated different Ca2+ entry pathways. Ang II/III- or BK-induced [Ca2+]i increases were similarly potentiated by bisindolylmaleimide. Herbimycin A and PP2 decreased similarly the [Ca2+]i responses induced by Ang II/III and BK. In contrast, PD98059 and UO126 affected the effects of BK to a larger extent than those of Ang II/III. Especially, the Ca2+ influx induced by BK was more strongly inhibited than that induced by Ang II/III in the presence of both compounds. The Na+ transport was inhibited by BK and stimulated by Ang II/III. The inhibitory action of BK on Na+ transport was blocked by UO126, whereas the stimulatory response of Ang II/III was potentiated by UO126 but blocked by bisindolylmaleimide. These data suggest that the inhibitory effect of BK on Na+ transport seems to be directly mediated by an increase in Ca2+ influx dependent on MAPK/ERK pathway activation. In contrast, the stimulatory effect of Ang II/III on Na+ transport is more complex and involves PKC and MAPK/ERK pathways.

Epidermal Growth Factor Induces Tyrosine Phosphorylation, Membrane Insertion, and Activation of Transient Receptor Potential Channel 4

Various members of the canonical family of transient receptor potential channels (TRPCs) exhibit increased cation influx following receptor stimulation or Ca(2+) store depletion. Tyrosine phosphorylation of TRP family members also results in increased channel activity; however, the link between the two events is unclear. We report that two tyrosine residues in the C terminus of human TRPC4 (hTRPC4), Tyr-959 and Tyr-972, are phosphorylated following epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor stimulation of COS-7 cells. This phosphorylation was mediated by Src family tyrosine kinases (STKs), with Fyn appearing to be the dominant kinase. In addition, EGF receptor stimulation induced the exocytotic insertion of hTRPC4 into the plasma membrane dependent on the activity of STKs and was accompanied by a phosphorylation-dependent increase in the association of hTRPC4 with Na(+)/H(+) exchanger regulatory factor. Furthermore, this translocation and association was defective upon mutation of Tyr-959 and Tyr-972 to phenylalanine. Significantly, inhibition of STKs was concomitant with a reduction in Ca(2+) influx in both native COS-7 cells and hTRPC4-expressing HEK293 cells, with cells expressing the Y959F/Y972F mutant exhibiting a reduced EGF response. These findings represent the first demonstration of a mechanism for phosphorylation to modulate TRPC channel function.

High glucose-induced apoptosis through store-operated calcium entry and calcineurin in human umbilical vein endothelial cells

Diabetes mellitus causes multiple cardiovascular complications. Previous studies have shown that prolonged exposure (96 h) of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) to hyperglycemia causes a significant increase in apoptosis. We report here that this increase in apoptosis is associated with an increase in Ca(2+) current (whole cell patch-clamp recorded) resulting from Ca(2+) entry mediated by store-operated channels (SOCs). The number of apoptotic cells after prolonged high glucose (HG, 30 mmol/L) exposure was significantly reduced in the presence of the SOC inhibitor 2-APB or of La(3+). A marked increase (approximately 80%) in Ca(2+)-dependent calcineurin (CN-A) phosphatase activity also occurred after prolonged HG exposure. Prolonged HG exposure-induced increase in CN-A activity was prevented by 2-APB, and selective CN-A phosphatase inhibition by FK506 or calmodulin inhibition by calmidazolium decreased HG-induced apoptosis. Blocking hydrogen peroxide production using catalase or inhibiting the tyrosine kinase pp60(src) during prolonged exposure to HG, resulted in a marked decrease in apoptosis and was further associated with a significant reduction in CN-A phosphatase activity. The results demonstrate a significant role for Ca(2+) entry in HG-induced apoptosis in HUVECs, and suggest that this role is mediated via H(2)O(2) generation and the action of the Ca(2+)-activated protein phosphatase calcineurin.

Ca2+-independent activation of Bruton's tyrosine kinase is required for store-mediated Ca2+ entry in human platelets

Store-mediated Ca(2+) entry (SMCE), which is rapidly activated by depletion of the intracellular Ca(2+) stores, is a major mechanism for Ca(2+) influx. Several studies have involved tyrosine kinases in the activation of SMCE, such as pp60(src), although at present those involved in the early activation steps are unknown. Here we report the involvement of Bruton's tyrosine kinase (Btk) in the early stages of SMCE in human platelets. Cell treatment with thrombin or thapsigargin (TG) plus ionomycin (Iono) results in rapid activation of Btk, which was independent of rise in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) but dependent on H(2)O(2) generation. Platelet treatment with Btk inhibitors, LFM-A13 or terreic acid, significantly reduced TG+Iono- and thrombin-evoked SMCE. Btk was rapidly activated by addition of low concentrations of H(2)O(2), whose effect on Ca(2+) entry was prevented by Btk inhibitors. Our results indicate that pp60(src) and Btk co-immunoprecipitate after platelet stimulation with TG+Iono, thrombin or H(2)O(2). In addition, we have found that LFM-A13 impaired actin filament reorganization after store depletion and agonist-induced activation of pp60(src), while the inhibitor of pp60(src), a protein that requires actin reorganization for its activation, did not modify Btk activation, suggesting that Btk is upstream of pp60(src). We propose a role for Btk in the early steps of activation of SMCE in human platelets.

Store-Operated Calcium Channels

In electrically nonexcitable cells, Ca2+influx is essential for regulating a host of kinetically distinct processes involving exocytosis, enzyme control, gene regulation, cell growth and proliferation, and apoptosis. The major Ca2+entry pathway in these cells is the store-operated one, in which the emptying of intracellular Ca2+stores activates Ca2+influx (store-operated Ca2+entry, or capacitative Ca2+entry). Several biophysically distinct store-operated currents have been reported, but the best characterized is the Ca2+release-activated Ca2+current, ICRAC. Although it was initially considered to function only in nonexcitable cells, growing evidence now points towards a central role for ICRAC-like currents in excitable cells too. In spite of intense research, the signal that relays the store Ca2+content to CRAC channels in the plasma membrane, as well as the molecular identity of the Ca2+sensor within the stores, remains elusive. Resolution of these issues would be greatly helped by the identification of the CRAC channel gene. In some systems, evidence suggests that store-operated channels might be related to TRP homologs, although no consensus has yet been reached. Better understood are mechanisms that inactivate store-operated entry and hence control the overall duration of Ca2+entry. Recent work has revealed a central role for mitochondria in the regulation of ICRAC, and this is particularly prominent under physiological conditions. ICRACtherefore represents a dynamic interplay between endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, and plasma membrane. In this review, we describe the key electrophysiological features of ICRACand other store-operated Ca2+currents and how they are regulated, and we consider recent advances that have shed insight into the molecular mechanisms involved in this ubiquitous and vital Ca2+entry pathway.

Store-operated Ca(2+) entry and tyrosine kinase pp60(src) hyperactivity are modulated by hyperglycemia in platelets from patients with non insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus

We have investigated the involvement of store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) in the abnormal platelet Ca(2+) homeostasis in patients with non insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). In a medium containing 180 mg/dL glucose, platelets from NIDDM patients showed an increased SOCE compared to controls. We found that tyrosine phosphorylation was elevated in platelets from NIDDM patients. Consistent with this, the activity of the tyrosine kinase pp60(src) is enhanced in platelets from diabetic patients. When the experiments were performed in a medium containing 90 mg/dL both, SOCE and pp60(src) activity, were similar to those found in control platelets. Our results indicate that SOCE is altered in platelets from NIDDM patients probably due to the increased activity of the tyrosine kinase pp60(src). Both, SOCE and pp60(src) activity in platelets from NIDDM patients are more susceptible to the extracellular glucose concentration, which seems to be involved in the dysfunction of these mechanisms.

Gene expression profiles in HEK-293 cells with low or high store-operated calcium entry: can regulatory as well as regulated genes be identified?

Gene expression profiles were generated using cDNA microarray technology for clones of human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293 cells selected to have either high or low levels of store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE). For five high clones, three low clones, and control HEK-293 cells, duplicate Affymetrix U133A human gene arrays were run after extraction of total RNA from cells growing in the presence of serum. Of the approximately 22,000 genes represented on the microarray, 58 genes had readings at least twofold higher, while 32 genes had readings at least twofold lower, in all five high SOCE clones compared with control HEK-293 cells. In the low SOCE clones, 92 genes had readings at least twofold higher, while 58 genes had readings at least twofold lower, than in HEK-293 cells. Microarray results were confirmed for 18 selected genes by real-time RT-PCR analysis; for six of those genes, predicted changes in the low SOCE clone were confirmed by an alternative method, monitoring mRNA levels in HEK-293 with SOCE decreased by expression of small interfering (si)RNA to canonical transient receptor potential protein-1. Genes regulated by SOCE are involved in signal transduction, transcription, apoptosis, metabolism, and membrane transport. These data provide insight into the physiological role of SOCE. In addition, a potential regulator of SOCE, insulin receptor substrate (IRS)-2, has been identified. A reduction of IRS-2 levels by siRNA methods in two high clones dramatically reduced SOCE, whereas overexpression of IRS-2 in a low SOCE clone elevated SOCE.

Modulation of TRPV1 by nonreceptor tyrosine kinase, c-Src kinase

The capsaicin receptor TRPV1 is a nonselective cation channel that is expressed in sensory neurons. In this study, we examined the role of the nonreceptor cellular tyrosine kinase c-Src kinase in the modulation of the rat TRPV1. Capsaicin-induced currents in identified colonic dorsal root ganglion neurons were blocked by the c-Src kinase inhibitor PP2 and enhanced by the tyrosine phosphatase inhibitor sodium orthovandate. PP2 also abolished currents in human embryonic kidney-293 cells transfected with rat TRPV1, whereas cotransfection of TRPV1 with v-Src resulted in fivefold increase in capsaicin-induced currents. In cells transfected with dominant-negative c-Src and TRPV1, capsaicin-induced currents were decreased by approximately fourfold. TRPV1 co-immunoprecipitated with Src kinase and was tyrosine phosphorylated. These studies demonstrate that TRPV1 is a potential target for cellular tyrosine kinase-dependent phosphorylation.

Obligatory role of Src kinase in the signaling mechanism for TRPC3 cation channels

Members of the canonical transient receptor potential (TRPC) subfamily of cation channels are candidates for capacitative and non-capacitative Ca2+ entry channels. When ectopically expressed in cell lines, TRPC3 can be activated by phospholipase C-mediated generation of diacylglycerol or by addition of synthetic diacylglycerols, independently of Ca2+ store depletion. Apart from this mode of regulation, little is known about other receptor-dependent signaling events that modulate TRPC3 activity. In the present study the role of tyrosine kinases in receptor- and diacylglycerol-dependent activation of TRPC3 was investigated. In HEK293 cells stably expressing TRPC3, pharmacological inhibition of tyrosine kinases, and specifically of Src kinases, abolished activation of TRPC3 by muscarinic receptor stimulation and by diacylglycerol. Channel regulation was lost following expression of a dominant-negative mutant of Src, or when TRPC3 was expressed in an Src-deficient cell line. In both instances, wild-type Src restored TRPC3 regulation. We conclude that Src plays an obligatory role in the mechanism for receptor and diacylglycerol activation of TRPC3.

Dual effect of hydrogen peroxide on store-mediated calcium entry in human platelets

Redox regulation is important for the modulation of cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration. Hence, we have investigated the effect of H(2)O(2) on store-mediated Ca(2+) entry (SMCE). In fura-2-loaded human platelets treatment with H(2)O(2) resulted in a concentration-dependent increase in Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores, while the effect on Ca(2+) entry was biphasic. In addition, 1mM H(2)O(2) reduced SMCE induced by agonists. The inhibitory effect of 1mM H(2)O(2) was prevented by inhibition of actin polymerization with cytochalasin D. Consistent with this, we found that 10microM H(2)O(2) and store depletion by treatment with thapsigargin plus ionomycin induced a similar temporal sequence of actin reorganization, while exposure to 1mM H(2)O(2) shifted the dynamics between polymerization and depolymerization in favor of the former. One millimolar H(2)O(2)-induced polymerization was reduced by treatment with methyl 2,5-dihydroxycinnamate and farnesylthioacetic acid, inhibitors of tyrosine kinases and Ras superfamily proteins, respectively. Finally, exposure to 1mM H(2)O(2) significantly increased store depletion-induced p60(src) activation. We conclude that H(2)O(2) exerted a biphasic effect on SMCE. The inhibitory role of high H(2)O(2) concentrations is mediated by an abnormal actin reorganization pattern involving both Ras- and tyrosine kinases-dependent pathways.

Hydrogen Peroxide Generation Induces pp60 Activation in Human Platelets

Reactive oxygen species, such as H2O2, have been recognized as intracellular messengers involved in several cell functions. Here we report the activation of the tyrosine kinase pp60(src) by H2O2, a mechanism required for the activation of store-mediated Ca2+ entry (SMCE) in human platelets. Treatment of platelets with H2O2 resulted in a time- and concentration-dependent activation of pp60(src). Incubation with GF 109203X, a protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, prevented H2O2-induced pp60(src) activation. In contrast, dimethyl-BAPTA loading did not affect this response, suggesting that activation of pp60(src) by H2O2 is independent of increases in [Ca2+](i). Cytochalasin D, an inhibitor of actin polymerization, significantly reduced H2O2-induced pp60(src) activation. We found that platelet stimulation with thapsigargin (TG) plus ionomycin (Iono) or thrombin induced rapid H2O2 production, a mechanism independent of elevations in [Ca2+](i). Treatment of platelets with catalase attenuated TG plus Iono- and thrombin-induced activation of pp60(src). In addition, catalase as well as the pp60(src) inhibitor, PP1, reduced both the activation of SMCE and the coupling between the hTrp1 and the IP(3)R type II without having any effect on the maintenance of SMCE. Consistent with the role of PKC in the activation of pp60(src) by H2O2, the PKC inhibitors GF 109202X and Ro-31-8220 were found to reduced SMCE in platelets. This study suggests that platelet activation with TG plus Iono or thrombin is associated with H2O2 production, which acts as a second messenger by stimulating pp60(src) by a PKC-dependent pathway and is involved in the activation of SMCE in these cells.

Role of phospholipase C-L2, a novel phospholipase C-like protein that lacks lipase activity, in B-cell receptor signaling

Phospholipase C (PLC) plays important roles in phosphoinositide turnover by regulating the calcium-protein kinase C signaling pathway. PLC-L2 is a novel PLC-like protein which lacks PLC activity, although it is very homologous with PLC delta. PLC-L2 is expressed in hematopoietic cells, but its physiological roles and intracellular functions in the immune system have not yet been clarified. To elucidate the physiological function of PLC-L2, we generated mice which had a genetic PLC-L2 deficiency. PLC-L2-deficient mice grew with no apparent abnormalities. However, mature B cells from PLC-L2-deficient mice were hyperproliferative in response to B-cell receptor (BCR) cross-linking, although B2 cell development appeared to be normal. Molecular biological analysis revealed that calcium influx and NFATc accumulation in nuclei were increased in PLC-L2-deficient B cells. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase activity was also enhanced in PLC-L2-deficient B cells. These mice had a stronger T-cell-independent antigen response. These results indicate that PLC-L2 is a novel negative regulator of BCR signaling and immune responses.

Role of Ca2+ in diperoxovanadate-induced cytoskeletal remodeling and endothelial cell barrier function

Diperoxovanadate (DPV), a potent inhibitor of protein tyrosine phosphatases and activator of tyrosine kinases, alters endothelial barrier function via signaling pathways that are incompletely understood. One potential pathway is Src kinase-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation of proteins such as cortactin that regulate endothelial cell (EC) cytoskeleton assembly. As DPV modulates endothelial cell signaling via protein tyrosine phosphorylation, we determined the role of DPV-induced intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) in activation of Src kinase, cytoskeletal remodeling, and barrier function in bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells (BPAECs). DPV in a dose- and time-dependent fashion increased [Ca2+]i, which was partially blocked by the calcium channel blockers nifedipine and Gd3+. Treatment of cells with thapsigargin released Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum, and subsequent addition of DPV caused no further change in [Ca2+]i. These data suggest that DPV-induced [Ca2+]i includes Ca release from the endoplasmic reticulum and Ca influx through store-operated calcium entry. Furthermore, DPV induced an increase in protein tyrosine phosphorylation, phosphorylation of Src and cortactin, actin remodeling, and altered transendothelial electrical resistance in BPAECs. These DPV-mediated effects were significantly attenuated by BAPTA (25 microM), a chelator of [Ca2+]i. Immunofluorescence studies reveal that the DPV-mediated colocalization of cortactin with peripheral actin was also prevented by BAPTA. Chelation of extracellular Ca2+ by EGTA had marginal effects on DPV-induced phosphorylation of Src and cortactin; actin stress fibers formation, however, affected EC barrier function. These data suggest that DPV-induced changes in [Ca2+]i regulate endothelial barrier function using signaling pathways that involve Src and cytoskeleton remodeling.

Evidence for secretion-like coupling involving pp60src in the activation and maintenance of store-mediated Ca2+ entry in mouse pancreatic acinar cells

Store-mediated Ca2+ entry (SMCE) is one of the main pathways for Ca2+ influx in non-excitable cells. Recent studies favour a secretion-like coupling mechanism to explain SMCE, where Ca2+ entry is mediated by an interaction of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) with the plasma membrane (PM) and is modulated by the actin cytoskeleton. To explore this possibility further we have now investigated the role of the actin cytoskeleton in the activation and maintenance of SMCE in pancreatic acinar cells, a more specialized secretory cell type which might be an ideal cellular model to investigate further the properties of the secretion-like coupling model. In these cells, the cytoskeletal disrupters cytochalasin D and latrunculin A inhibited both the activation and maintenance of SMCE. In addition, stabilization of a cortical actin barrier by jasplakinolide prevented the activation, but not the maintenance, of SMCE, suggesting that, as for secretion, the actin cytoskeleton plays a double role in SMCE as a negative modulator of the interaction between the ER and PM, but is also required for this mechanism, since the cytoskeleton disrupters impaired Ca2+ entry. Finally, depletion of the intracellular Ca2+ stores induces cytoskeletal association and activation of pp60(src), which is independent on Ca2+ entry. pp60(src) activation requires the integrity of the actin cytoskeleton and participates in the initial phase of the activation of SMCE in pancreatic acinar cells.

Role of Ca2+ signaling in the regulation of endothelial permeability

The vascular endothelial cell forms a semipermeable barrier between blood and interstitium. Inflammatory mediators such as thrombin and histamine induce vascular leakage defined as increased endothelial permeability to plasma proteins and other solutes. Increased endothelial permeability is the hallmark of inflammatory vascular edema. Inflammatory mediators that bind to heptahelical G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) trigger increased endothelial permeability by increasing the intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)). The rise in [Ca(2+)](i) activates key signaling pathways, which mediate cytoskeletal reorganization (through myosin light chain (MLC)-dependent contraction) and disassembly of VE-cadherin at the adherens junctions. The Ca(2+)-dependent protein kinase C (PKC) isoform, PKC-alpha, plays a critical role in initiating endothelial cell contraction and disassembly of VE-cadherin junctions. The increase in [Ca(2+)](i) induced by a variety of agonists is achieved by the generation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3), activation of IP3 receptors (IP3R), release of stored intracellular Ca(2+), and Ca(2+) entry through plasma membrane channels. Recent findings demonstrate that IP3-sensitive Ca(2+) store depletion activates plasma membrane cation channels (i.e., store-operated cation channels (SOC) or Ca(2+) release activated channels) to cause Ca(2+) influx in endothelial cells. This mode of Ca(2+) influx is also known as capacitative Ca(2+) entry (CCE). Store-operated Ca(2+) influx signals increase in permeability and nitric oxide (NO) production and provokes changes in gene expression in endothelial cells. Recent studies have established that the Drosophila transient receptor potential (TRP) gene family of channels expressed in endothelial cells can function as SOC. Deletion of one of the TRP homologues, TRPC4, in mouse caused impairment in store-operated Ca(2+) current and Ca(2+) store release activated Ca(2+) influx in aortic and lung endothelial cells (LEC). In TRPC4 knockout (TRPC4(-/-)) mice, acetylcholine-induced endothelium-dependent smooth muscle relaxation was drastically reduced. In addition, TRPC4(-/-) mice LEC exhibited lack of actin stress fiber formation and cell retraction in response to thrombin activation of proteinase-activated receptor-1 (PAR-1) in endothelial cells. The increase in lung microvascular permeability in response to thrombin receptor activation was inhibited in TRPC4(-/-) mice. These results indicate that endothelial TRP channels such as TRPC1 and TRPC4 play an important role in signaling the increase in endothelial permeability.

Src modulates serotonin-induced calcium signaling by regulating phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate

We tested the hypothesis that, in airway smooth muscle cells, stimulation of G-protein-coupled receptors by contractile agonists activates Src kinase and that this kinase modulates cell contractility and Ca(2+) signaling by affecting the levels of the phospholipase C substrate phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP(2)). Stimulation of cultured rat tracheal smooth muscle cells with serotonin (5-HT) induced an increase in Src activity, Ca(2+) mobilization, and contraction (decrease in cell area). 5-HT-evoked cell contraction was reduced by a specific inhibitor of Src family kinases, 4-amino-5(4-methylphenyl)-7-(t-butyl)pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine (PP1). Peak Ca(2+) responses to 5-HT were attenuated by PP1 and an anti-Src-blocking antibody and augmented by expression of constitutively activated Y529F Src. Sustained phases of Ca(2+) responses to 5-HT and Ca(2+) influx resulting from emptying of Ca(2+) stores in the endoplasmic reticulum by thapsigargin were also decreased after PP1 treatment. PP1 significantly reduced the turnover of inositol phosphates produced on 5-HT stimulation and the amount of PIP(2) in the Triton X-100-insoluble lipid fraction. Overall, these data demonstrate that, in rat tracheal smooth muscle cells, Src kinase modulates 5-HT-evoked cell contractility and Ca(2+) signaling by regulating PIP(2) levels and Ca(2+) influx.

Capacitative Ca(2+) entry in vascular endothelial cells is mediated via pathways sensitive to 2 aminoethoxydiphenyl borate and xestospongin C

1. Agonists increase endothelial cell intracellular Ca(2+), in part, by capacitative entry, which is triggered by the filling state of intracellular Ca(2+) stores. It has been suggested that depletion of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca(2+) stores either leads to a physical coupling between the ER and a plasma membrane channel, or results in production of an intracellular messenger which affects the gating of membrane channels. As an axis involving the IP(3) receptor has been implicated in a physical coupling mechanism the aim of this study was to examine the effects of the putative IP(3) receptor antagonists/modulators, 2 aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2APB) and xestospongin C, on endothelial cell Ca(2+) entry. 2. Studies were conducted in fura 2 loaded cultured bovine aortic endothelial cells and endothelial cells isolated from rat heart. 3. 2APB (30 - 300 microM) inhibited Ca(2+) entry induced by both agonists (ATP 1 microM, bradykinin 0.1 microM) and receptor-independent mechanisms (thapsigargin 1 microM, ionomycin 0.5 and 5 microM). 2APB did not diminish endothelial cell ATP-induced production of IP(3) nor effect in vitro binding of [(3)H]-IP(3) to an adrenal cortex binding protein. Capacitative Ca(2+) entry was also blocked by disruption of the actin cytoskeleton with cytochalasin (100 nM) while the initial Ca(2+) release phase was unaffected. 4. Similarly to 2APB, xestospongin C (3 - 10 microM) inhibited ATP-induced Ca(2+) release and capacitative Ca(2+) entry. Further, xestospongin C inhibited capacitative Ca(2+) entry induced by thapsigargin (1 microM) and ionomycin (0.5 microM). 5. The data are consistent with a mechanism of capacitative Ca(2+) entry in vascular endothelial cells which requires (a) IP(3) receptor binding and/or an event distal to the activation of the ER receptor and (b) a spatial relationship, dictated by the cytoskeleton, between Ca(2+) release and entry pathways.

Regulation of ion channels by protein tyrosine phosphorylation

Ion channels are regulated by protein phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of serine, threonine, and tyrosine residues. Evidence for the latter process, tyrosine phosphorylation, has increased substantially since this topic was last reviewed. In this review, we present a comprehensive summary and synthesis of the literature regarding the mechanism and function of ion channel regulation by protein tyrosine kinases and phosphatases. Coverage includes the majority of voltage-gated, ligand-gated, and second messenger-gated channels as well as several types of channels that have not yet been cloned, including store-operated Ca2+ channels, nonselective cation channels, and epithelial Na+ and Cl- channels. Additionally, we discuss the critical roles that channel-associated scaffolding proteins may play in localizing protein tyrosine kinases and phosphatases to the vicinity of ion channels.

Synergistic effects of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and thrombin in increasing endothelial permeability

Because activation of the coagulation cascade and the generation of thrombin coexist with sepsis and the release of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, we determined the effects of TNF-alpha on the mechanism of thrombin-induced increase in endothelial permeability. We assessed Ca(2+) signaling in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. In human umbilical vein endothelial cells exposed to TNF-alpha for 2 h, thrombin produced a rise in the intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) lasting up to 10 min. In contrast, thrombin alone produced a rise in [Ca(2+)](i) lasting for 3 min, whereas TNF-alpha alone had no effect on [Ca(2+)](i.) Thrombin-induced inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate generation was not different between control and TNF-alpha-exposed cells. In the absence of extracellular Ca(2+), thrombin produced similar increases in [Ca(2+)](i) in both control and TNF-alpha-exposed cells. In TNF-alpha-exposed cells, the thrombin-induced Ca(2+) influx after intracellular Ca(2+) store depletion was significantly greater and prolonged compared with control cells. Increased Ca(2+) entry was associated with an approximately fourfold increase in Src activity and was sensitive to the Src kinase inhibitor PP1. After TNF-alpha exposure, thrombin caused increased tyrosine phosphorylation of junctional proteins and actin stress fiber formation as well as augmented endothelial permeability. These results suggest that TNF-alpha stimulation of endothelial cells results in amplification of the thrombin-induced Ca(2+) influx by an Src-dependent mechanism, thereby promoting loss of endothelial barrier function.

Fibrinogen binding to the integrin alpha(IIb)beta(3) modulates store-mediated calcium entry in human platelets

Effects of the occupation of integrin alpha(IIb)beta(3) by fibrinogen on Ca(++) signaling in fura-2-loaded human platelets were investigated. Adding fibrinogen to washed platelet suspensions inhibited increases in cytosolic [Ca(++)] concentrations ([Ca(++)](i)) evoked by adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and thrombin in a concentration-dependent manner in the presence of external Ca(++) but not in the absence of external Ca(++) or in the presence of the nonselective cation channel blocker SKF96365, indicating selective inhibition of Ca(++) entry. Fibrinogen also inhibited store-mediated Ca(++) entry (SMCE) activated after Ca(++) store depletion using thapsigargin. The inhibitory effect of fibrinogen was reversed if fibrinogen binding to alpha(IIb)beta(3) was blocked using RDGS or abciximab and was absent in platelets from patients homozygous for Glanzmann thrombasthenia. Fibrinogen was without effect on SMCE once activated. Activation of SMCE in platelets occurs through conformational coupling between the intracellular stores and the plasma membrane and requires remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton. Fibrinogen inhibited actin polymerization evoked by ADP or thapsigargin in control cells and in cells loaded with the Ca(++) chelator dimethyl BAPTA. It also inhibited the translocation of the tyrosine kinase p60(src) to the cytoskeleton. These results indicate that the binding of fibrinogen to integrin alpha(IIb)beta(3) inhibits the activation of SMCE in platelets by a mechanism that may involve modulation of the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton and the cytoskeletal association of p60(src). This action may be important in intrinsic negative feedback to prevent the further activation of platelets subjected.

Negative control of store-operated Ca2+ influx by B cell receptor cross-linking

An increase in the intracellular Ca(2+) concentration by B cell receptor (BCR) cross-linking plays important roles in the regulation of B cell functions. [Ca(2+)](i) is regulated by Ca(2+) release from the Ca(2+) store as well as store-operated Ca(2+) influx (SOC). Protein tyrosine kinases downstream of BCR cross-linking were shown to regulate the mechanism for Ca(2+) release. However, it remains elusive whether BCR cross-linking regulates SOC or not. In this study, we examined the effect of BCR cross-linking on thapsigargin-induced SOC in the DT40 B cells. We found that the SOC-mediated increase in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration was inhibited by BCR cross-linking. Using a membrane-potential-sensitive dye, we found that BCR cross-linking induced depolarization, which is expected to decrease the driving force of Ca(2+) influx and SOC channel conductance. When membrane potential was held constant by the transmembrane K(+) concentration gradient in the presence of valinomycin, the BCR-mediated inhibition of SOC was still observed. Thus, the BCR-mediated inhibition of SOC involves both depolarization-dependent and depolarization-independent mechanisms of SOC inhibition. The depolarization-independent inhibition of the SOC was abolished in Lyn-deficient, but not in Bruton's tyrosine kinase-, Syk- or SHIP (Src homology 2 domain containing phosphatidylinositol 5'-phosphatase)-deficient cells, indicating that Lyn is involved in the inhibition. These results show novel pathways of BCR-mediated SOC regulations.

Activation of Src kinase in skeletal muscle cells by 1, 1,25-(OH(2))-vitamin D(3) correlates with tyrosine phosphorylation of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and VDR-Src interaction

The rapid effect of 1 alpha,25(OH(2))-vitamin D(3) [1 alpha, 25(OH(2))D(3)] on tyrosine kinase Src and its relationship to the vitamin D receptor (VDR) was investigated to further characterize the hormone signaling mechanism in chick muscle cells. Exposure of cultured myotubes to 1 alpha,25(OH(2))D(3) caused a time-dependent increase in Src activity, which was evident at 1 min (one-fold) and reached a maximum at 5 min (15-fold). Immunoblotting with anti-phosphotyrosine antibody of immunoprecipitated Src showed that the hormone decreased Src tyrosine phosphorylation state with maximal effects at 5 min. Using a database for protein consensus motifs we found a putative tyrosine phosphorylation site (amino acids 164-170: KTFDTTY) within the primary sequence of the chick VDR. When the myotube VDR was immunoprecipitated it appeared onto SDS-PAGE gels as a single band of 58 kDa recognized by an anti-phosphotyrosine antibody. Prior treatment of cells with (1)alpha,25(OH(2))D(3) significantly increased tyrosine phosphorylation of the VDR (two- to three-fold above basal levels). In agreement with Src being a SH2-domain containing protein involved in recognition of tyrosine-phosphorylated targets, immunoprecipitation with anti-Src antibody under native conditions followed by blotting with anti-VDR antibody, or using the antibodies in inverse order, showed that the VDR co-precipitates with Src, thus indicating the existence of a VDR/Src complex. Stimulation with the cognate VDR ligand significantly increased formation of the complex with respect to basal conditions. These results altogether provide the first evidence to date for 1 alpha,25(OH(2))D(3) activation involving Src association to tyrosine phosphorylated VDR.

Functional significance of human trp1 and trp3 in store-operated Ca(2+) entry in HEK-293 cells

The Drosophila trp (transient receptor potential) gene appears to encode the Drosophila store-operated channel (SOC), and some mammalian trp homologues have been proposed to encode mammalian SOCs. This study provides evidence for the expression of three trp homologues (Mtrp2, Mtrp3, and Mtrp4) in fibroblasts from wild-type and src knockout mice, and four trp homologues (Htrp1, Htrp3, Htrp4, and Htrp6) in human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cells based on RT-PCR techniques. In HEK-293 cells stably transfected with a 323-bp Htrp3 antisense construct (Htrp3AS), Northern blot analysis revealed that the expression of a 4-kb transcript was dramatically suppressed in comparison to that observed in cells stably transfected with a short Htrp3 sense construct (Htrp3S). Activity of SOCs, monitored as Ba(2+) influx following Ca(2+) store depletion with thapsigargin, was reduced by 32% in Htrp3AS cells in comparison with Htrp3S cells. Transient transfection of a 369-bp Htrp1 antisense construct in cells stably expressing Htrp3AS induced a higher level of inhibition (55%) of store-operated Ca(2+) entry. These data suggest that Htrp1 and Htrp3 may be functional subunits of SOCs.

Cell-to-cell variation in store-operated calcium entry in HEK-293 cells and its impact on the interpretation of data from stable clones expressing exogenous calcium channels

To investigate the effect of cell-to-cell variation in store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) on the evaluation of data from stable cell clones selected following gene transfection, we measured SOCE in 2700 individual HEK-293 cells from the parent population and in 1900 individual cells from a clonal subpopulation of HEK-293 cells. We applied statistical resampling techniques to model conditions where one would compare the average SOCE in n control clones to the average SOCE in n experimental clones (n = 1-200). For an overexpression experiment with n = 1, there is a 27% chance of observing a 100% or higher difference in SOCE between clones, with n = 10 there is a 34% probability of observing a 20% or greater difference in SOCE, and with n = 100, there is less than a 10% chance of seeing a 10% or greater difference in SOCE, based solely on random selection of clones from the parent HEK-293 cell population. To assure that the degree of cell-to-cell variation was predictive of the degree of clone-to-clone variation, we measured SOCE in 270 clones, each arising from a single cell, and found the variation to be very similar to that observed for individual cells.

Transcription of the human c-Src promoter is dependent on Sp1, a novel pyrimidine binding factor SPy, and can be inhibited by triplex-forming oligonucleotides

The tyrosine kinase pp60(c-src) has been implicated in the regulation of numerous normal physiological processes as well the development of several human cancers. However, the mechanisms regulating its expression have not been addressed. In the present study, we report the presence of two Sp1/Sp3 binding sites and three polypurine:polypyrimidine (Pu:Py) tracts in the c-Src promoter that are essential for controlling expression. We demonstrate that Sp1, but not Sp3, is capable of activating the c-Src promoter and that Sp3 is also capable of inhibiting Sp1-mediated transactivation. The presence of multiple Pu:Py tracts conferred S1 sensitivity on plasmids in vitro, suggesting they are capable of adopting non B-DNA conformations. These tracts specifically bind a nuclear factor we named SPy (Src pyrimidine binding factor), which demonstrates both novel double- and single-stranded binding specificities. Mutations eliminating SPy binding compromised Src transcriptional activity, especially in concert with additional mutations affecting Sp1 binding, suggesting the two factors may cooperate in regulating c-Src expression. Finally, we demonstrate that triplex-forming oligonucleotides designed to target both Sp1 and SPy binding sites can down-regulate c-Src expression in vitro, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach to controlling c-Src expression in diseases where aberrant expression or activity has been documented.

Collagen Mediates Changes in Intracellular Calcium in Primary Mouse Megakaryocytes Through syk-Dependent and -Independent Pathways

We have characterized changes in [Ca2+]iin primary mouse megakaryocytes in response to fibrillar collagen and in response to cross-linking of the collagen receptor, the integrin 2β1. The response to collagen was markedly different from that seen to a triple helical collagen-related peptide (CRP), which signals via the tyrosine kinases p59fyn and p72syk. This peptide binds to the collagen receptor glycoprotein VI (GPVI), but not to the integrin 2β1. Collagen elicited a sustained increase in [Ca2+]i composed primarily of influx of extracellular Ca2+ with some Ca2+release from internal stores. In contrast to CRP, this response was only partially (∼30%) inhibited by the src-family kinase inhibitor PP1 (10 μmol/L) or by microinjection of the tandem SH2 domains of p72syk. Collagen also caused an increase in [Ca2+]i in megakaryocytes deficient in either p59fyn or p72syk, although the response was reduced by approximately 40% in both cases: Cross-linking of the 2 integrin increased [Ca2+]iin these cells exclusively via Ca2+ influx. This response was reduced by approximately 50% after PP1 pretreatment, but was significantly increased in fyn-deficient megakaryocytes. Collagen therefore increases [Ca2+]i in mouse megakaryocytes via multiple receptors, including GPVI, which causes Ca2+ mobilization, and 2β1, which stimulates a substantial influx of extracellular Ca2+.

Collagen Mediates Changes in Intracellular Calcium in Primary Mouse Megakaryocytes Through syk-Dependent and -Independent Pathways

We have characterized changes in [Ca2+]iin primary mouse megakaryocytes in response to fibrillar collagen and in response to cross-linking of the collagen receptor, the integrin 2β1. The response to collagen was markedly different from that seen to a triple helical collagen-related peptide (CRP), which signals via the tyrosine kinases p59fyn and p72syk. This peptide binds to the collagen receptor glycoprotein VI (GPVI), but not to the integrin 2β1. Collagen elicited a sustained increase in [Ca2+]i composed primarily of influx of extracellular Ca2+ with some Ca2+release from internal stores. In contrast to CRP, this response was only partially (∼30%) inhibited by the src-family kinase inhibitor PP1 (10 μmol/L) or by microinjection of the tandem SH2 domains of p72syk. Collagen also caused an increase in [Ca2+]i in megakaryocytes deficient in either p59fyn or p72syk, although the response was reduced by approximately 40% in both cases: Cross-linking of the 2 integrin increased [Ca2+]iin these cells exclusively via Ca2+ influx. This response was reduced by approximately 50% after PP1 pretreatment, but was significantly increased in fyn-deficient megakaryocytes. Collagen therefore increases [Ca2+]i in mouse megakaryocytes via multiple receptors, including GPVI, which causes Ca2+ mobilization, and 2β1, which stimulates a substantial influx of extracellular Ca2+.

The role of calcium in the etiology of the affective disorders

Calcium abnormalities are some of the more consistent findings in platelets of affective disorder patients. While medication status does not correlate with this finding, antidepressants do modulate intracellular calcium. This, in combination with reports that calcium channel inhibitors may have antidepressant potential, suggests that calcium may play an important role in this disorder. This paper reviews the specificity of calcium abnormalities for the affective disorders and also discusses possible mechanisms of action.