A novel N-terminal splice variant of the rat H+-K+-ATPase alpha2 subunit. Cloning, functional expression, and renal adaptive response to chronic hypokalemia

Acute liver failure in dogs and cats

OBJECTIVE

To define acute liver failure (ALF), review the human and veterinary literature, and discuss the etiologies and current concepts in diagnostic and treatment options for ALF in veterinary and human medicine.

ETIOLOGY

In veterinary medicine ALF is most commonly caused by hepatotoxin exposure, infectious agents, inflammatory diseases, trauma, and hypoxic injury.

DIAGNOSIS

A patient may be deemed to be in ALF when there is a progression of acute liver injury with no known previous hepatic disease, the development of hepatic encephalopathy of any grade that occurs within 8 weeks after the onset of hyperbilirubinemia (defined as plasma bilirubin >50 μM/L [>2.9 mg/dL]), and the presence of a coagulopathy. Diagnostic testing to more specifically characterize liver dysfunction or pathology is usually required.

THERAPY

Supportive care to aid the failing liver and compensate for the lost functions of the liver remains the cornerstone of care of patients with ALF. Advanced therapeutic options such as extracorporeal liver assist devices and transplantation are currently available in human medicine.

PROGNOSIS

The prognosis for ALF depends upon the etiology, the degree of liver damage, and the response to therapy. In veterinary medicine, the prognosis is generally poor.

H-K-ATPase type 2: relevance for renal physiology and beyond

H-K-ATPase type 2 (HKA2), also known as the "nongastric" or "colonic" H-K-ATPase, is broadly expressed, and its presence in the kidney has puzzled experts in the field of renal ion transport systems for many years. One of the most important and robust characteristics of this transporter is that it is strongly stimulated after dietary K(+) restriction. This result prompted many investigators to propose that it should play a role in allowing the kidney to efficiently retain K(+) under K(+) depletion. However, the apparent absence of a clear renal phenotype in HKA2-null mice has led to the idea that this transporter is an epiphenomenon. This review summarizes past and recent findings regarding the functional, structural and physiological characteristics of H-K-ATPase type 2. The findings discussed in this review suggest that, as in the famous story, the ugly duckling of the X-K-ATPase family is actually a swan.

Postnatal regulation of X,K-ATPases in rat skin and conserved lateroapical polarization of Na,K-ATPase in vertebrate epidermis

Development of epidermis creates stratified epithelium with different sets of ion-transporting enzymes in its layers. We have characterized expression of Na,K- and H,K-ATPase α and β subunits and FXYD isoforms in rat skin. Maturation of rat skin from newborn to adult is associated with an increase in FXYD4 and a decrease of Na,K-ATPase α1-isoform, ATP1B4 and FXYD6 transcripts. Na,K-ATPase of rat epidermis is represented predominantly by α1 and β3 isoforms. Keratinization is associated with the loss of the Na,K-ATPase α-subunit and an enrichment of αng. Na,K-ATPase α1 is abundant in the innermost layer, stratum basale, where it is lacking in basal membranes, thus indicating lateroapical polarization of Na,K-ATPase. Immunocytochemical detection of Na,K-ATPase in Xenopus laevis skin shows that cellular and subcellular localization of the enzyme has a pattern highly similar to that of mammals: basolateral in glandular epithelium and lateroapical in epidermis.

Expression of the non-gastric H+/K+ ATPase ATP12A in normal and pathological human prostate tissue

Altered cellular proton handling and cell volume regulation are hallmarks of tumorigenesis. To investigate a possible involvement of the non-gastric H(+)/K(+) ATPase ATP12A (ATP1AL1) in prostate cancer, we performed immunohistochemistry in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded histological sections from benign and malignant human prostate lesions. Normal prostate tissue displayed a membrane-bound ATP12A staining with focal accumulated pattern, whereas in the benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and cancerous prostate tissue (tumor grade I-III) the protein appears to be displaced in the luminal cells of the glandular epithelium. Hence, the expression pattern of ATP12A is markedly altered in BPH and prostate cancer. To test for altered gene expression of ATP12A we performed quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (QRT-PCR) in normal (tumor-free) prostate tissue, BPH and tumor stages I-III using a prostate cancer cDNA array. However, no significantly different expression levels could be detected in the various disease states compared to normal tissue, which contrasts the findings from immunohistochemistry and points to the possibility of altered post-translational processing and/or sorting of the protein. We further show that ATP12A mRNA is expressed at different levels in PC-3 and LNCaP prostate cancer cells, with a significant ~26-fold higher expression in the latter cell type. Protein expression in these tumor cell lines was verified by Western blot.

Isolation and cloning of the K+-independent, ouabain-insensitive Na+-ATPase

Primary Na+ transport has been essentially attributed to Na+/K+ pump. However, there are functional and biochemical evidences that suggest the existence of a K+-independent, ouabain-insensitive Na+ pump, associated to a Na+-ATPase with similar characteristics, located at basolateral plasma membrane of epithelial cells. Herein, membrane protein complex associated with this Na+-ATPase was identified. Basolateral membranes from guinea-pig enterocytes were solubilized with polyoxyethylene-9-lauryl ether and Na+-ATPase was purified by concanavalin A affinity and ion exchange chromatographies. Purified enzyme preserves its native biochemical characteristics: Mg2+ dependence, specific Na+ stimulation, K+ independence, ouabain insensitivity and inhibition by furosemide (IC50: 0.5 mM) and vanadate (IC50: 9.1 μM). IgY antibodies against purified Na+-ATPase did not recognize Na+/K+-ATPase and vice versa. Analysis of purified Na+-ATPase by SDS-PAGE and 2D-electrophoresis showed that is constituted by two subunits: 90 (α) and 50 (β) kDa. Tandem mass spectrometry of α-subunit identified three peptides, also present in most Na+/K+-ATPase isoforms, which were used to design primers for cloning both ATPases by PCR from guinea-pig intestinal epithelial cells. A cDNA fragment of 1148 bp (atna) was cloned, in addition to Na+/K+-ATPase α1-isoform cDNA (1283 bp). In MDCK cells, which constitutively express Na+-ATPase, silencing of atna mRNA specifically suppressed Na+-ATPase α-subunit and ouabain-insensitive Na+-ATPase activity, demonstrating that atna transcript is linked to this enzyme. Guinea-pig atna mRNA sequence (2787 bp) was completed using RLM-RACE. It encodes a protein of 811 amino acids (88.9 kDa) with the nine structural motifs of P-type ATPases. It has 64% identity and 72% homology with guinea-pig Na+/K+-ATPase α1-isoform. These structural and biochemical evidences identify the K+-independent, ouabain-insensitive Na+-ATPase as a unique P-type ATPase.

A structural overview of the plasma membrane Na+,K+-ATPase and H+-ATPase ion pumps

Plasma membrane ATPases are primary active transporters of cations that maintain steep concentration gradients. The ion gradients and membrane potentials derived from them form the basis for a range of essential cellular processes, in particular Na(+)-dependent and proton-dependent secondary transport systems that are responsible for uptake and extrusion of metabolites and other ions. The ion gradients are also both directly and indirectly used to control pH homeostasis and to regulate cell volume. The plasma membrane H(+)-ATPase maintains a proton gradient in plants and fungi and the Na(+),K(+)-ATPase maintains a Na(+) and K(+) gradient in animal cells. Structural information provides insight into the function of these two distinct but related P-type pumps.

Pancreatic bicarbonate secretion involves two proton pumps

Pancreas secretes fluid rich in digestive enzymes and bicarbonate. The alkaline secretion is important in buffering of acid chyme entering duodenum and for activation of enzymes. This secretion is formed in pancreatic ducts, and studies to date show that plasma membranes of duct epithelium express H(+)/HCO(3)(-) transporters, which depend on gradients created by the Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase. However, the model cannot fully account for high-bicarbonate concentrations, and other active transporters, i.e. pumps, have not been explored. Here we show that pancreatic ducts express functional gastric and non-gastric H(+)-K(+)-ATPases. We measured intracellular pH and secretion in small ducts isolated from rat pancreas and showed their sensitivity to H(+)-K(+) pump inhibitors and ion substitutions. Gastric and non-gastric H(+)-K(+) pumps were demonstrated on RNA and protein levels, and pumps were localized to the plasma membranes of pancreatic ducts. Quantitative analysis of H(+)/HCO(3)(-) and fluid transport shows that the H(+)-K(+) pumps can contribute to pancreatic secretion in several species. Our results call for revision of the bicarbonate transport physiology in pancreas, and most likely other epithelia. Furthermore, because pancreatic ducts play a central role in several pancreatic diseases, it is of high relevance to understand the role of H(+)-K(+) pumps in pathophysiology.

Colonic potassium handling

Homeostatic control of plasma K+ is a necessary physiological function. The daily dietary K+ intake of approximately 100 mmol is excreted predominantly by the distal tubules of the kidney. About 10% of the ingested K+ is excreted via the intestine. K+ handling in both organs is specifically regulated by hormones and adapts readily to changes in dietary K+ intake, aldosterone and multiple local paracrine agonists. In chronic renal insufficiency, colonic K+ secretion is greatly enhanced and becomes an important accessory K+ excretory pathway. During severe diarrheal diseases of different causes, intestinal K+ losses caused by activated ion secretion may become life threatening. This topical review provides an update of the molecular mechanisms and the regulation of mammalian colonic K+ absorption and secretion. It is motivated by recent results, which have identified the K+ secretory ion channel in the apical membrane of distal colonic enterocytes. The directed focus therefore covers the role of the apical Ca2+ and cAMP-activated BK channel (KCa1.1) as the apparently only secretory K+ channel in the distal colon.

Purification and characterization of the ouabain-sensitive H+/K+-ATPase from guinea-pig distal colon

Distal colon absorbs K+ through a Na+-independent, ouabain-sensitive H+/K+-exchange, associated to an apical ouabain-sensitive H+/K+-ATPase. Expression of HKalpha2, gene associated with this ATPase, induces K+-transport mechanisms, whose ouabain susceptibility is inconsistent. Both ouabain-sensitive and ouabain-insensitive K+-ATPase activities have been described in colonocytes. However, native H+/K+-ATPases have not been identified as unique biochemical entities. Herein, a procedure to purify ouabain-sensitive H+/K+-ATPase from guinea-pig distal colon is described. H+/K+-ATPase is Mg2+-dependent and activated by K+, Cs+ and NH4+ but not by Na+ or Li+, independently of K+-accompanying anion. H+/K+-ATPase was inhibited by ouabain and vanadate but insensitive to SCH-28080 and bafilomycin-A. Enzyme was phosphorylated from [32P]-gamma-ATP, forming an acyl-phosphate bond, in an Mg2+-dependent, vanadate-sensitive process. K+ inhibited phosphorylation, effect blocked by ouabain. H+/K+-ATPase is an alpha/beta-heterodimer, whose subunits, identified by Tandem-mass spectrometry, seems to correspond to HKalpha2 and Na+/K+-ATPase beta1-subunit, respectively. Thus, colonic ouabain-sensitive H+/K+-ATPase is a distinctive P-type ATPase.

The renal H+-K+-ATPases: physiology, regulation, and structure

The H(+)-K(+)-ATPases are ion pumps that use the energy of ATP hydrolysis to transport protons (H(+)) in exchange for potassium ions (K(+)). These enzymes consist of a catalytic alpha-subunit and a regulatory beta-subunit. There are two catalytic subunits present in the kidney, the gastric or HKalpha(1) isoform and the colonic or HKalpha(2) isoform. In this review we discuss new information on the physiological function, regulation, and structure of the renal H(+)-K(+)-ATPases. Evaluation of enzymatic functions along the nephron and collecting duct and studies in HKalpha(1) and HKalpha(2) knockout mice suggest that the H(+)-K(+)-ATPases may function to transport ions other than protons and potassium. These reports and recent studies in mice lacking both HKalpha(1) and HKalpha(2) suggest important roles for the renal H(+)-K(+)-ATPases in acid/base balance as well as potassium and sodium homeostasis. Molecular modeling studies based on the crystal structure of a related enzyme have made it possible to evaluate the structures of HKalpha(1) and HKalpha(2) and provide a means to study the specific cation transport properties of H(+)-K(+)-ATPases. Studies to characterize the cation specificity of these enzymes under different physiological conditions are necessary to fully understand the role of the H(+)-K(+) ATPases in renal physiology.

The renal H+, K+-ATPases as therapeutic targets

The kidney is an important regulatory organ responsible for maintaining constant blood volume and composition despite wide variations in the intake of food and water. Throughout the nephron, the functional unit of the kidney, there is a wide variety of proteins that function to add additional waste products and to recover needed materials from the lumen filtrate. The collecting duct of the nephron is the primary renal location for the H+, K+-ATPases, a group of ion pumps that function in both acid/base balance and potassium homeostasis. This review summarizes the present understanding of the structure and functions for the different subtypes of the H+, K+-ATPases under specific physiologic conditions. The obstacles in determining the pharmacologic properties of the different subtypes are considered and future directions for the inhibition and/or stimulation of the H+, K+-ATPases are evaluated.

Molecular regulation and physiology of the H+,K+ -ATPases in kidney

Two H(+), K(+)-adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) proteins participate in K(+) absorption and H(+) secretion in the renal medulla. Both the gastric (HKalpha(1)) and colonic (HKalpha(2)) H(+),K(+)-ATPases have been localized and characterized by a number of techniques, and are known to be highly regulated in response to acid-base and electrolyte disturbances. Both ATPases are dimers of composition alpha/beta that localize to the apical membrane and both interact with the tetraspanin protein CD63. Although CD63 interacts with the carboxy-terminus of the alpha-subunit of the colonic H(+),K(+)-ATPase, it interacts with the beta-subunit of the gastric H(+),K(+)-ATPase. Pharmacologically, both ATPases are distinct; for example, the gastric H(+),K(+)-ATPase is inhibited by Sch-28080, but the colonic H(+),K(+)-ATPase is inhibited by ouabain (a classic inhibitor of the Na(+)-pump) and is completely insensitive to Sch-28080. The alpha-subunit of the colonic H(+),K(+)-ATPase is the only subunit of the X(+),K(+)-ATPase superfamily that has 3 different splice variants that emerge by deletion or elongation of the amino-terminus. The messenger RNA and protein of one of these splice variants (HKalpha(2C)) is specifically up-regulated in newborn rats and becomes undetectable in adult rats. Therefore, HKalpha(2), in addition to its role in potassium and acid-base homeostasis, appears to play a significant role in early growth and development. Finally, because chronic hypokalemia appears to be the most potent stimulus for upregulation of HKalpha(2), we propose that the HKalpha(2) participates importantly in the maintenance of chronic metabolic alkalosis.

Characterization of the rabbit HKalpha2 gene promoter

The HKalpha2 gene directs synthesis of the HKalpha2 subunit of the H(+), K(+)-ATPase. In the kidney and colon, the gene is highly expressed and is thought to play a role in potassium (K(+)) conservation. The rabbit has been an important experimental system for physiological studies of ion transport in the kidney, so the rabbit HKalpha2 gene has been cloned and characterized. The genomic clones and the previously reported HKalpha2a and HKalpha2c subunit cDNAs provided a means to address several issues regarding the structure and expression of the HKalpha2 gene. First, the genomic organization established that the rabbit HKalpha2 gene was unambiguously homologous to the mouse HKalpha2 gene and the human ATP1AL1 gene. Second, the mapping of the transcription start site for the alternate transcript, HKalpha2c, confirmed that it was an authentic rabbit transcript. Finally, isolation of DNA from the 5' end of the HKalpha2 gene enabled us to initiate studies on its regulation in the rabbit cortical collecting duct. The promoter and two putative negative regulatory regions were identified and the effect of cell confluency on gene expression was studied.

Enhancement of ligand-dependent Vitamin D receptor transactivation by the cardiotonic steroid bufalin

Bufalin, a bufadienolide type cardiotonic steroid that is one of the major components of the toad venom-prepared traditional Chinese medicine called Ch'an Su or Senso, exhibits a cardiotonic action by inhibiting the membranous Na(+),K(+)-ATPase. Bufalin also induces differentiation of leukemia cells alone or in combination with other differentiation inducers including 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) [1,25(OH)(2)D(3)]. In this study, we performed a transient cotransfection assay using a vitamin D receptor (VDR) expression vector and a luciferase reporter and found that although bufalin did not transactivate the VDR, it effectively enhanced VDR activity induced by 1,25(OH)(2)D(3). Bufalin also augmented VDR activation by bile acid ligands, such as lithocholic acid and 3-ketocholanic acid. Other cardiotonic steroids including ouabain, digitoxigenin and cinobufagin did not enhance VDR activation. Bufalin did not bind directly to VDR but did modulate the interaction of VDR and cofactors, such as steroid receptor coactivator-1 and nuclear receptor corepressor. Bufalin treatment significantly increased the expression of an endogenous VDR target gene, CYP24, in kidney- and monocyte-derived cell lines treated with 1,25(OH)(2)D(3). The data indicate that bufalin-mediated cellular mechanisms such as interaction with Na(+), K(+)-ATPase may affect VDR transcriptional activity. Bufalin may be a useful tool in the investigation of VDR regulation by membrane-originating cellular signals and of pathophysiological mechanisms linking VDR to cardiovascular dysfunction.

Molecular identification of Sch28080-sensitive K-ATPase activities in the mouse kidney

Rat collecting ducts display either an ouabain-insensitive or an ouabain-sensitive K-ATPase activity inhibited by Sch28080 according as animals are fed a normal or a potassium-depleted diet (types I and III K-ATPase, respectively). Two isoforms of H,K-ATPase have been cloned from rat gastric mucosa and colon, respectively. Gastric and colonic H,K-ATPase are expressed in the kidney, suggesting that they might account for types I and III K-ATPases. However, this hypothesis is not fully supported by segmental expression of gastric and colonic H,K-ATPase along the rat collecting duct, as well as by comparison of the pharmacological properties of gastric and colonic H,K-ATPase expressed in Xenopus ovocyte and types I and III K-ATPases in rat collecting ducts. The aim of the present work is to address directly the molecular origin of types I and III K-ATPases in the mouse collecting duct by measuring K-ATPase activities in collecting ducts of wild-type mice and mice genetically deficient in either gastric or colonic H,K-ATPase fed either a regular or a potassium-depleted diet. Like the rat, mouse collecting ducts display type I or III K-ATPase activity when fed a regular or a potassium-depleted diet, respectively. Type I K-ATPase activity is detected in colonic H,K-ATPase-deficient mice but not in gastric H,K-ATPase-deficient animals. Conversely, type III K-ATPase activity disappears in colonic H,K-ATPase-deficient but not in gastric H,K-ATPase-deficient mice. In conclusion, types I and III K-ATPases measured in collecting ducts of normal and potassium-depleted mice reflect the functional expression of gastric and colonic H,K-ATPase, respectively.

The non-gastric H,K-ATPase is oligomycin-sensitive and can function as an H+,NH4(+)-ATPase

We used the baculovirus/Sf9 expression system to gain new information on the mechanistic properties of the rat non-gastric H,K-ATPase, an enzyme that is implicated in potassium homeostasis. The alpha2-subunit of this enzyme (HKalpha2) required a beta-subunit for ATPase activity thereby showing a clear preference for NaKbeta1 over NaKbeta3 and gastric HKbeta. NH4(+), K+, and Na+ maximally increased the activity of HKalpha2-NaKbeta1 to 24.0, 14.2, and 5.0 micromol P(i) x mg(-1) protein x h(-1), respectively. The enzyme was inhibited by relatively high concentrations of ouabain and SCH 28080, whereas it was potently inhibited by oligomycin. From the phosphorylation level in the presence of oligomycin and the maximal NH4(+)-stimulated ATPase activity, a turnover number of 20,000 min(-1) was determined. All three cations decreased the steady-state phosphorylation level and enhanced the dephosphorylation rate, disfavoring the hypothesis that Na+ can replace H+ as the activating cation. The potency with which vanadate inhibited the cation-activated enzyme decreased in the order K+ > NH4(+) > Na+, indicating that K+ is a stronger E2 promoter than NH4(+), whereas in the presence of Na+ the enzyme is in the E1 form. For K+ and NH4(+), the E2 to E1 conformational equilibrium correlated with their efficacy in the ATPase reaction, indicating that here the transition from E2 to E1 is rate-limiting. Conversely, the low maximal ATPase activity with Na+ is explained by a poor stimulatory effect on the dephosphorylation rate. These data show that NH4(+) can replace K+ with similar affinity but higher efficacy as an extracellular activating cation in rat nongastric H,K-ATPase.

A carboxy-terminus motif of HKalpha2 is necessary for assembly and function

BACKGROUND

The present experiments were designed to study the importance of the carboxy-terminus of HKalpha2, for both function and integrity of assembly with beta1-Na+,K+-ATPase.

METHODS

For this purpose, stop codons were created, by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), at different positions in the carboxy-terminus of HKalpha2. Subsequently, chimeras between HKalpha2 and the carboxy-terminus of alpha1-Na+,K+-ATPase or with the carboxy-terminus of the gastric H+,K+-ATPase were created. Human embryonic kidney HEK-293 cells were used as expression systems for functional studies using 86Rb+ uptake and alpha/beta assembly using specific antibodies.

RESULTS

The results demonstrate that the entire carboxy-terminus of HKalpha2 is required for optimal protection of the alpha/beta complex from degradation and for functionality as evidenced by 86Rb+ uptake. The results also demonstrate that there was flexibility in the sequence of the carboxy-terminus. The last two tyrosines (Y1035Y1036) of HKalpha2 could be mutated to alanines and the carboxy-terminus of HKalpha2 could be replaced by the carboxy-terminus of alpha1-Na+,K+-ATPase while preserving transport activity.

CONCLUSION

The entire carboxy-terminus of HKalpha2 is required for stable assembly with beta1-Na+,K+-ATPase and functionality.

Identification of the β-subunit for nongastric H-K-ATPase in rat anterior prostate

The structural organization of nongastric H-K-ATPase, unlike that of closely related Na-K-ATPase and gastric H-K-ATPase, is not well characterized. Recently, we demonstrated that nongastric H-K-ATPase α-subunit (αng) is expressed in apical membranes of rodent prostate. Its highest level, as well as relative abundance, with respect to α1-isoform of Na-K-ATPase, was observed in anterior lobe. Here, we aimed to determine the subunit composition of nongastric H-K-ATPase through the detailed analysis of the expression of all known X-K-ATPase β-subunits in rat anterior prostate (AP). RT-PCR detects transcripts of β-subunits of Na-K-ATPase only. Measurement of absolute protein content of these three β-subunit isoforms, with the use of quantitative Western blotting of AP membrane proteins, indicates that the abundance order is β1> β3≫ β2. Immunohistochemical experiments demonstrate that β1is present predominantly in apical membranes, coinciding with αng, whereas β3is localized in the basolateral compartment, coinciding with α1. This is the first direct demonstration of the αng-β1colocalization in situ indicating that, in rat AP, αngassociates only with β1. The existence of αng-β1complex has been confirmed by immunoprecipitation experiments. These results indicate that β1-isoform functions as the authentic subunit of Na-K-ATPase and nongastric H-K-ATPase. Putatively, the intracellular polarization of X-K-ATPase isoforms depends on interaction with other proteins.

Lipopolysaccharide-induced changes in rat gastric H/K-ATPase expression

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inhibition of gastric acid secretion.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Endotoxemia from LPS inhibits gastric acid secretion by an unknown mechanism. Bacterial overgrowth in the stomach caused by decreased acid secretion could be responsible for nosocomial pneumonia developing in critically ill intensive care unit patients. Because acid secretion is via the H/K-ATPase and the effects of LPS on this enzyme are unknown, we hypothesized that LPS causes inhibition of gastric acid secretion by down-regulating the H/K-ATPase.

METHODS

A rat model to study gastric acid secretion was created. Saline or LPS (0.05-20 mg/kg IP) was given for 1 hour, after which basal acid secretion was determined for 1 hour. Pentagastrin (PG; 10 microg/kg IV) or saline was then given and gastric acid output collected for another 2 hours.

RESULTS

LPS dose dependently inhibited basal and PG stimulated acid secretion. LPS increased alpha- and beta-H/K-ATPase subunit mRNA expression (Northern blot) in the absence of PG compared with saline. In the presence of PG, LPS did not have this effect. Western blot analysis did not show any difference in alpha- or beta-subunit immunoreactivity. Immunofluorescence analysis demonstrated that PG increased staining in the secretory membranes for H/K-ATPase subunits whereas in all LPS-treated rats, it appeared that H/K-ATPase subunits remained within the tubulovesicles. Furthermore, changes in H/K-ATPase mRNA expression may not be related to changes in NF-kappaB activity.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that inhibition of gastric acid secretion by LPS is due to inhibition of H/K-ATPase enzymatic function or changes in cytoskeletal rearrangements in H/K-ATPase subunits rather than by down-regulation of transcriptional or translational events.

Structure and regulation of the mDot1 gene, a mouse histone H3 methyltransferase

The nucleotide sequence data reported have been deposited in the DDBJ, EMBL, GenBank(R) and GSDB Nucleotide Sequence Databases under accession numbers AY196089, AY196090, AY376663, AY377920 and AY376664. Recently, a new class of histone methyltransferases that plays an indirect role in chromatin silencing by targeting a conserved lysine residue in the nucleosome core was described, namely the Dot1 (disruptor of telomeric silencing) family [Feng, Wang, Ng, Erdjument-Bromage, Tempst, Struhl and Zhang (2002) Curr. Biol. 12, 1052-1058; van Leeuwen, Gafken and Gottschling (2002) Cell (Cambridge, Mass.) 109, 745-756; Ng, Feng, Wang, Erdjument-Bromage, Tempst, Zhang and Struhl (2002) Genes Dev. 16, 1518-1527]. In the present study, we report the isolation, genomic organization and in vivo expression of a mouse Dot1 homologue (mDot1). Expressed sequence tag analysis identified five mDot1 mRNAs (mDot1a-mDot1e) derived from alternative splicing. mDot1a and mDot1b encode 1540 and 1114 amino acids respectively, whereas mDot1c-mDot1e are incomplete at the 5'-end. mDot1a is closest to its human counterpart (hDot1L), sharing 84% amino acid identity. mDot1b is truncated at its N- and C-termini and contains an internal deletion. The five mDot1 isoforms are encoded by 28 exons on chromosome 10qC1, with exons 24 and 28 further divided into two and four sections respectively. Alternative splicing occurs in exons 3, 4, 12, 24, 27 and 28. Northern-blot analysis with probes corresponding to the methyltransferase domain or the mDot1a-coding region detected 7.6 and 9.5 kb transcripts in multiple tissues, but only the 7.6 kb transcript was evident in mIMCD3-collecting duct cells. Transfection of mDot1a-EGFP constructs (where EGFP stands for enhanced green fluorescent protein) into human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293T or mIMCD3 cells increased the methylation of H3-K79 but not H3-K4, -K9 or -K36. Furthermore, DMSO induced mDot1 gene expression and methylation specifically at H3-K79 in mIMCD3 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Collectively, these results add new members to the Dot1 family and show that mDot1 is involved in a DMSO-mediated signal-transduction pathway in collecting duct cells.

In vivo expression profile of a H+-K+-ATPase alpha2-subunit promoter-reporter transgene

Because little is known about the molecular basis of transcriptional regulation of the murine H(+)-K(+)-ATPase alpha(2) (HKalpha(2)) gene or other genes whose expression is restricted in part to the collecting duct, especially in vivo, we developed transgenic mice carrying an insertional HKalpha(2) promoter-reporter gene construct. In these mice, the region -7,264/+253 of the HKalpha(2) 5'-flanking region controls expression of the reporter gene enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP). Patterns of HKalpha(2)/EGFP transgene expression were examined by fluorescence microscopy and immunoblotting. Of 10 major organs examined, EGFP immunoreactivity was detected abundantly in the kidney, and to a far lesser extent, in the brain and lung. Within the kidney, EGFP fluorescence was detected exclusively in the collecting ducts of transgenic mice and colocalized with the cellular distribution of both endogenous HKalpha(2) and aquaporin-2, consistent with the known expression pattern of endogenous HKalpha(2) in principal cells. Surprisingly, no transgene expression was evident by immunoblotting or fluorescence microscopy in the distal colon, the site of the highest endogenous HKalpha(2) expression. Although previous studies of steady-state mRNA levels suggested differences in HKalpha(2) gene regulation in the kidney and colon, our results provide the first direct evidence of differential transcriptional control of the HKalpha(2) gene in these organs and suggest that regions outside the 5'-flanking region or other regulatory factors play a role in HKalpha(2) expression in the distal colon.

Insulin-stimulated cyclic guanosine monophosphate inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell migration by inhibiting Ca/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II

BACKGROUND

Insulin resistance is associated with vascular disease. Physiological concentrations of insulin inhibit cultured vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) migration in the presence of nitric oxide, and the failure to do so in insulin-resistant states may aggravate vascular disease. We sought to determine the molecular mechanisms by which insulin inhibits VSMC migration.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Insulin at 1 nmol/L stimulated cGMP production in cultured rat VSMCs that were induced to express inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). VSMC migration was measured in a wound-closure assay, and the platelet-derived growth factor-AB (PDGF-AB)-stimulated component of VSMC migration after wounding was inhibited by insulin, 8-Br-cGMP, and 1-[N-0-bis(5-isoquinolinesulfonyl)-N-methyl-L-tyrosyl]-4-phenylpiperazine (KN-62), a selective inhibitor of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaM kinase II). Wounding alone or incubating cells with only PDGF-AB stimulated CaM kinase II activity in an insulin- and 8-Br-cGMP-inhibitable manner. Transfecting VSMCs with a constitutively active CaM kinase II mutant blocked the inhibition by insulin of both wound-induced and wound plus PDGF-AB-induced VSMC migration. High intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca]i)-stimulated CaM kinase II activity was inhibited by 8-Br-cGMP by an okadaic acid-sensitive mechanism.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that in cultured rat VSMCs expressing iNOS, insulin, via stimulation of cGMP production, inhibits both wound alone-induced and the PDGF-AB-stimulated component of VSMC migration by inhibiting CaM kinase II activity. cGMP inhibits CaM kinase II at a post-[Ca]i step by a protein phosphatase-dependent mechanism.

Purple acid phosphatases of Arabidopsis thaliana. Comparative analysis and differential regulation by phosphate deprivation

Purple acid phosphatases (PAPs) are members of the metallo-phosphoesterase family. They are characterized by the presence of seven conserved amino acid residues involved in coordinating the dimetal nuclear center in their reactive site. We compared the 29 PAPs predicted for Arabidopsis thaliana in their varieties of potential metal-ligating residues. Although 24 members possessed sets of metal-ligating residues typical of known PAPs, 1 member lacked four of the seven residues. For the remaining four members, potential metal-ligating residues were generally more similar to those in metal-dependent exonucleases and related proteins. Evidence was obtained for the expression of the majority of the 29 PAPs. To facilitate future investigations, a scheme for naming Arabidopsis PAPs and a system for classifying the 29 PAPs are proposed. The cDNA sequences and the responses to phosphate deprivation of seven Arabidopsis PAPs (AtPAP7-AtPAP13) were characterized. For some AtPAPs analyzed, there were fully processed transcripts as well as splice variants. The splice variants of AtPAP10 were found to associate with polyribosomes and may be translated into a NH(2)-terminal truncated protein. Phylogenetic investigations showed that AtPAPs 7 and 8, together with similar enzymes from other plant species, formed the low molecular weight plant PAP group. Members of this group were more closely related to PAPs from mammalian cells. AtPAPs 9-13, together with kidney bean PAP, formed the high molecular weight PAP group. In phosphate deprivation experiments, gene transcription of AtPAP11 and AtPAP12 was induced and increased, respectively, whereas that of the remaining five AtPAPs was not affected by phosphate deprivation. The present work demonstrates that structure variation and expression regulation of plant PAPs are more complex than previously described and provides a framework for comprehensive molecular genetic and biochemical studies of all Arabidopsis PAPs in the future.

Stimulation of protein kinase C pathway mediates endocytosis of human nongastric H+-K+-ATPase, ATP1AL1

The human nongastric H+-K+-ATPase, ATP1AL1, shown to reabsorb K+ in exchange for H+ or Na+, is localized in the luminal plasma membrane of renal epithelial cells. It is presumed that renal H+-K+-ATPases can be regulated by endocytosis. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms that control plasma membrane expression of renal H+-K+-ATPases. In our study, activation of protein kinase C (PKC) using phorbol esters (phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate) leads to clathrin-dependent internalization and intracellular accumulation of the ion pump in stably transfected Madin-Darby canine kidney cells. Functional inactivation of the H+-K+-ATPase by PKC activation is shown by intracellular pH measurements. Proton extrusion capacity of ATP1AL1-transfected cells is drastically reduced after phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate incubation and can be prevented with the PKC blocker bisindolylmaleimide. Ion pump internalization and inactivation are specifically mediated by the PKC pathway, whereas activation of the protein kinase A pathway has no influence. Our results show that the nongastric H+-K+-ATPase is a specific target for the PKC pathway. Therefore, PKC-mediated phosphorylation is a potential regulatory mechanism for apical nongastric H+-K+-ATPase plasma membrane expression.

Human nongastric H+-K+-ATPase: transport properties of ATP1al1 assembled with different beta-subunits

To investigate whether nongastric H+-K+-ATPases transport Na+ in exchange for K+ and whether different beta-isoforms influence their transport properties, we compared the functional properties of the catalytic subunit of human nongastric H+-K+-ATPase, ATP1al1 (AL1), and of the Na+-K+-ATPase alpha1-subunit (alpha1) expressed in Xenopus oocytes, with different beta-subunits. Our results show that betaHK and beta1-NK can produce functional AL1/beta complexes at the oocyte cell surface that, in contrast to alpha1/beta1 NK and alpha1/betaHK complexes, exhibit a similar apparent K+ affinity. Similar to Na+-K+-ATPase, AL1/beta complexes are able to decrease intracellular Na+ concentrations in Na+-loaded oocytes, and their K+ transport depends on intra- and extracellular Na+ concentrations. Finally, controlled trypsinolysis reveals that beta-isoforms influence the protease sensitivity of AL1 and alpha1 and that AL1/beta complexes, similar to the Na+-K+-ATPase, can undergo distinct K+-Na+- and ouabain-dependent conformational changes. These results provide new evidence that the human nongastric H+-K+-ATPase interacts with and transports Na+ in exchange for K+ and that beta-isoforms have a distinct effect on the overall structural integrity of AL1 but influence its transport properties less than those of the Na+-K+-ATPase alpha-subunit.

Nongastric H-K-ATPase in rodent prostate: lobe-specific expression and apical localization

The molecular basis of active ion transport in secretory glands such as the prostate is not well characterized. Rat nongastric H-K-ATPase is expressed at high levels in distal colon surface cell apical membranes and thus is referred to as "colonic." Here we show that the ATPase is expressed in rodent prostate complex in a lobe-specific manner. RT-PCR and Western blot analyses indicate that rat nongastric H-K-ATPase alpha-subunit (alpha(ng)) mRNA and protein are present in coagulating gland (anterior prostate) and lateral and dorsal prostate and absent from ventral lobe, whereas Na-K-ATPase alpha-subunit is present in all lobes. RT-PCR analysis shows that Na-K-ATPase alpha(4) and alpha(3) and gastric H-K-ATPase alpha-subunit are not present in significant amounts in all prostate lobes. Relatively low levels of Na-K-ATPase alpha(2) were found in lateral, dorsal, and anterior lobes. alpha(ng) protein expression is anteriodorsolateral: highest in coagulating gland, somewhat lower in dorsal lobe, and even lower in lateral lobe. Na-K-ATPase protein abundance has the reverse order: expression in ventral lobe is higher than in coagulating gland. alpha(ng) protein abundance is higher in coagulating gland than distal colon membranes. Immunohistochemistry shows that in rat and mouse coagulating gland epithelium alpha(ng) protein has an apical polarization and Na-K-ATPase alpha(1) is localized in basolateral membranes. The presence of nongastric H-K-ATPase in rodent prostate apical membranes may indicate its involvement in potassium concentration regulation in secretions of these glands.

Structure, promoter analysis, and chromosomal localization of the murine H(+)/K(+)-ATPase alpha 2 subunit gene

The H(+)/K(+)-ATPase alpha2 subunit (HK alpha 2) of distal colon and renal collecting ducts plays a critical role in potassium and acid-base homeostasis. The isolation and complete sequence of the murine HK alpha 2 gene are reported. The HK alpha 2 gene contains 23 exons and spans 23.5 kb of genomic DNA. The exon/intron organization is comparable to that of the human ATP1AL1 gene. Primer extension and 5'-rapid amplification of cDNA ends of distal colon RNA were used to map the transcription initiation site. Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis localized the HK alpha 2 gene to murine chromosome 14C3. Sequence analysis of 7.2 kb of the 5'-flanking region revealed numerous consensus sites for transcription factors, including two potential glucocorticoid response elements. Transient transfection of promoter-luciferase constructs demonstrated strong basal HK alpha 2 promoter activity in renal collecting duct cells but not in fibroblasts or in a medullary thick ascending limb of Henle's loop cell line. Deletion analysis revealed that the proximal 0.2 kb of the promoter was sufficient to confer activity in collecting duct cells. These data should prove important in elucidation of the mechanisms controlling the differential, tissue-specific expression of the HK alpha 2 gene.

cDNA cloning and promoter analysis of rat caspase-9

Caspase-9 is the apex caspase of the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis, which plays a critical role in apoptotic initiation and progression. However, gene regulation of caspase-9 is largely unknown. This is in part due to the lack of information on the gene promoter. Here we have cloned the full-length cDNA of rat caspase-9 and have isolated promoter regions of this gene. The rat caspase-9 cDNA of 2058 bp predicts a protein of 454 amino acids, which contains a caspase-recruitment domain ('CARD') at the N-terminus and enzymic domains at the C-terminus. The enzyme's active site, with a characteristic motif of QACGG, was also identified. Overall, rat and human caspase-9 have 71% identity. With the cDNA sequence, we subsequently isolated the proximal 5'-flanking regions of rat caspase-9 by the procedure of genomic walking. The 2270 bp genomic segment is 'TATA-less', but contains several GC boxes. Elements binding known transcription factors such as Sp-1, Pit-1, CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP), glucocorticoid receptor and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) were also identified. When cloned into reporter gene vectors, the genomic segment showed significant promoter activity, indicating that the 5'-flanking regions isolated by genomic walking contain the gene promoter of rat caspase-9. Of significance is that the cloned promoter segments were activated by severe hypoxia, conditions inducing caspase-9 transcription. Thus, the genomic sequences reported here contain not only the basal promoter of rat caspase-9 but also regulatory elements responsive to pathophysiological stimuli including hypoxia.

Splice variants of human cathepsin L mRNA show different expression rates

Human cathepsin L (hCATL) mRNA occurs in vivo in at least three splice variants. They differ in the length of exon 1, which comprises 278 nucleotides (hCATL-A), 188 nucleotides (hCATL-A2) and 132 nucleotides (hCATL-A3), respectively. We describe here the shortest variant for the first time. This form is predominant in all tissues and cells examined so far, including malignant tumors. We studied the expression rate of the three mRNA variants in order to explain why malignant kidney tumors show low cathepsin L activity despite of high mRNA levels. The variant hCATL-A3 showed the highest expression rate in vitro and in vivo. Based on these results, we suggest a cis-acting element on human cathepsin L mRNA which can be bound by a negative trans-acting regulator, thus leading to reduced expression rates.

Characterization of the gene EPAC2: structure, chromosomal localization, tissue expression, and identification of the liver-specific isoform

The liver-specific protein cAMP-GEFII (also known as Epac2) belongs to a family of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) binding proteins having guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) activity (the cAMP-GEF family). Here we clone the gene EPAC2, encoding cAMP-GEFII, from a human liver cDNA library. Human EPAC2 has at least 31 exons and is mapped to human chromosome 2q31. Analyses by primer extension, reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, and in situ hybridization revealed the presence of three transcription start sites of liver-specific Epac2: two major sites located in exon 10 and a minor site in intron 9. The same translation start site is used in all three transcripts. Liver-specific cAMP-GEFII protein, which lacks the first cAMP-binding domain and the Dishevelled/Egl-10/Pleckstrin domain, was detected at 79 kDa by immunoblot analysis, confirming the presence of the short form of cAMP-GEFII in the liver. Liver-specific cAMP-GEFII also has GEF activity toward Rap1. These results demonstrate the presence of liver-specific cAMP-GEFII. Together with the previous finding that cAMP-GEFII is responsible for cAMP-dependent exocytosis in secretory cells, our study suggests that cAMP-GEFII may have a distinct role in liver.

Detection and localization of H+-K+-ATPase isoforms in human kidney

An H+-K+-ATPase contributes to hydrogen secretion and potassium reabsorption by the rat and rabbit collecting ducts. Transport of these ions appears to be accomplished by one or both of two isoforms of the H+-K+-ATPase, HKalpha(1) and HKalpha(2,) because both isoforms are found in the collecting ducts and transport of hydrogen and potassium is attenuated by exposure to inhibitors of these transport proteins. To evaluate whether an H+-K+-ATPase is present in the human kidney, immunohistochemical studies were performed using normal human renal tissue probed with antibodies directed against epitopes of three of the known isoforms of the H+-K+-ATPase , HKalpha(1), HKalpha(2), and HKalpha(4), and the V-type H+-ATPase. Cortical and medullary tissue probed with antibodies against HKalpha(1) showed cytoplasmic staining of intercalated cells that was less intense than that observed in the parietal cells of normal rat stomach stained with the same antibody. Also, weak immunoreactivity was detected in principal cells of the human collecting ducts. Cortical and medullary tissue probed with antibodies directed against HKalpha(4) revealed weak, diffuse staining of intercalated cells of the collecting ducts and occasional light staining of principal cells. Cortical and medullary tissue probed with antibodies directed against the H+-ATPase revealed staining of intercalated cells of the collecting ducts and some cells of the proximal convoluted tubules. By contrast, no discernible staining was noted with the use of the antibody against HKalpha(2). These data indicate that HKalpha(1) and HKalpha(4) are present in the collecting ducts of the human kidney. In this location, these isoforms might contribute to hydrogen and potassium transport by the kidney.

Immunohistochemical localization of H-K-ATPase alpha(2c)-subunit in rabbit kidney

The rabbit kidney possesses mRNA for the H-K-ATPase alpha(1)-subunit (HKalpha(1)) and two splice variants of the H-K-ATPase alpha(2)-subunit (HKalpha(2)). The purpose of this study was to determine the specific distribution of one of these, the H-K-ATPase alpha(2c)-subunit isoform (HKalpha(2c)), in rabbit kidney by immunohistochemistry. Chicken polyclonal antibodies against a peptide based on the NH(2) terminus of HKalpha(2c) were used to detect HKalpha(2c) immunoreactivity in tissue sections. Immunohistochemical localization of HKalpha(2c) revealed intense apical immunoreactivity in a subpopulation of cells in the connecting segment, cortical collecting duct, and outer medullary collecting duct in both the outer and inner stripe. An additional population of cells exhibited a thin apical band of immunolabel. Immunohistochemical colocalization of HKalpha(2c) with carbonic anhydrase II, the Cl(-)/HCO exchanger AE1, and HKalpha(1) indicated that both type A and type B intercalated cells possessed intense apical HKalpha(2c) immunoreactivity, whereas principal cells and connecting segment cells had only a thin apical band of HKalpha(2c). Labeled cells were evident through the middle third of the inner medullary collecting duct in the majority of animals. Immunolabel was also present in papillary surface epithelial cells, cells in the cortical thick ascending limb of Henle's loop (cTAL), and the macula densa. Thus in the rabbit kidney, apical HKalpha(2c) is present and may contribute to acid secretion or potassium uptake throughout the connecting segment and collecting duct in both type A and type B intercalated cells, principal cells, and connecting segment cells, as well as in cells in papillary surface epithelium, cTAL, and macula densa.

Specific association of nitric oxide synthase-2 with Rac isoforms in activated murine macrophages

Nitric oxide synthase-2 (NOS2) is responsible for high-output nitric oxide production important in renal inflammation and injury. Using a yeast two-hybrid assay, we identified Rac2, a Rho GTPase member, as a NOS2-interacting protein. NOS2 and Rac2 proteins coimmunoprecipitated from activated RAW 264.7 macrophages. The two proteins colocalized in an intracellular compartment of these cells. Glutathione-S-transferase (GST) pull-down assays revealed that both Rac1 and Rac2 associated with GST-NOS2 and that the NOS2 oxygenase domain was necessary and sufficient for the interaction. [(35)S]methionine-labeled NOS2 interacted directly with GST-Rac2 in the absence of GTP, calmodulin, or NOS2 substrates or cofactors. Stable overexpression of Rac2 in RAW 264.7 cells augmented LPS-induced nitrite generation (~60%) and NOS2 activity (~45%) without measurably affecting NOS2 protein abundance and led to a redistribution of NOS2 to a high-speed Triton X-100-insoluble fraction. We conclude that Rac1 and Rac2 physically interact with NOS2 in activated macrophages and that the interaction with Rac2 correlates with a posttranslational stimulation of NOS2 activity and likely its spatial redistribution within the cell.

Immunohistochemical localization of colonic H-K-ATPase to the apical membrane of connecting tubule cells

Previous studies indicate that the colonic H-K-ATPase mRNA is expressed as the distal nephron. However, the exact intrarenal localization of the colonic H-K-ATPase protein is still unclear. The goal of the present study was to determine the cellular and subcellular localization of the colonic H-K-ATPase protein in the rabbit kidney. We used three monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) directed against different epitopes of the rabbit colonic H-K-ATPase alpha-subunit (HKalpha(2)) to localize HKalpha(2) protein by immunofluorescence labeling of kidney sections and laser-scanning confocal microscopy. The specificity of the MAbs was confirmed by reaction with a single ~100-kDa band on Western blots of distal colon. Specific immunohistochemical reaction with the apical membrane of surface epithelial cells was observed with all three MAbs on distal colon sections. In rabbit kidney, immunofluorescence was detected only on the apical membrane of connecting tubule cells. Immunofluorescence was not detected in the cortical-, outer-, and inner-medullary collecting ducts. Furthermore, costaining with principal- and intercalated cell-specific MAbs and a MAb against the thick ascending limb suggests that these cell types express HKalpha(2) protein at levels that are below the detection limit with this method. We conclude that in the rabbit kidney, under normal dietary conditions, the HKalpha(2) protein is expressed in the apical membrane of connecting tubule cells.

Cellular origin and hormonal regulation of K(+)-ATPase activities sensitive to Sch-28080 in rat collecting duct

Rat collecting ducts exhibit type I or type III K(+)-ATPase activities when animals are fed a normal (NK) or a K(+)-depleted diet (LK). This study aimed at determining functionally the cell origin of these two K(+)-ATPases. For this purpose, we searched for an effect on K(+)-ATPases of hormones that trigger cAMP production in a cell-specific fashion. The effects of 1-deamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin (dD-AVP), calcitonin, and isoproterenol in principal cells, alpha-intercalated cells, and beta-intercalated cells of cortical collecting duct (CCD), respectively, and of dD-AVP and glucagon in principal and alpha-intercalated cells of outer medullary collecting duct (OMCD), respectively, were examined. In CCDs, K(+)-ATPase was stimulated by calcitonin and isoproterenol in NK rats (type I K(+)-ATPase) and by dD-AVP in LK rats (type III K(+)-ATPase). In OMCDs, dD-AVP and glucagon stimulated type III but not type I K(+)-ATPase. These hormone effects were mimicked by the cAMP-permeant analog dibutyryl-cAMP. In conclusion, in NK rats, cAMP stimulates type I K(+)-ATPase activity in alpha- and beta-intercalated CCD cells, whereas in LK rats it stimulates type III K(+)-ATPase in principal cells of both CCD and OMCD and in OMCD intercalated cells.

Sch-28080 depletes intracellular ATP selectively in mIMCD-3 cells

Two H(+)-K(+)-ATPase isoforms are present in kidney: the gastric, highly sensitive to Sch-28080, and the colonic, partially sensitive to ouabain. Upregulation of Sch-28080-sensitive H(+)-K(+)-ATPase, or "gastric" H(+)-K(+)-ATPase, has been demonstrated in hypokalemic rat inner medullary collecting duct cells (IMCDs). Nevertheless, only colonic H(+)-K(+)-ATPase mRNA and protein abundance increase in this condition. This study was designed to determine whether Sch-28080 inhibits transporters other than the gastric H(+)-K(+)-ATPase. In the presence of bumetanide, Sch-28080 (200 microM) and ouabain (2 mM) inhibited (86)Rb(+) uptake (>90%). That (86)Rb(+) uptake was almost completely abolished by Sch-28080 indicates an effect of this agent on the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase. ATPase assays in membranes, or lysed cells, demonstrated sensitivity to ouabain but not Sch-28080. Thus the inhibitory effect of Sch-28080 was dependent on cell integrity. (86)Rb(+)-uptake studies without bumetanide demonstrated that ouabain inhibited activity by only 50%. Addition of Sch-28080 (200 microM) blocked all residual activity. Intracellular ATP declined after Sch-28080 (200 microM) but recovered after removal of this agent. In conclusion, high concentrations of Sch-28080 inhibit K(+)-ATPase activity in mouse IMCD-3 (mIMCD-3) cells as a result of ATP depletion.

Effects of ammonia on bicarbonate transport in the cortical collecting duct

Both acidosis and hypokalemia stimulate renal ammoniagenesis, and both regulate urinary proton and potassium excretion. We hypothesized that ammonia might play an important role in this processing by stimulating H(+)-K(+)-ATPase-mediated ion transport. Rabbit cortical collecting ducts (CCD) were studied using in vitro microperfusion, bicarbonate reabsorption was measured using microcalorimetry, and intracellular pH (pH(i)) was measured using the fluorescent, pH-sensitive dye, 2', 7'-bis(2-carboxyethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein (BCECF). Ammonia caused a concentration-dependent increase in net bicarbonate reabsorption that was inhibited by luminal addition of either of the H(+)-K(+)-ATPase inhibitors, Sch-28080 or ouabain. The stimulation of net bicarbonate reabsorption was not mediated through apical H(+)-ATPase, basolateral Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase, or luminal electronegativity. Although ammonia caused intracellular acidification, similar changes in pH(i) induced by inhibiting basolateral Na(+)/H(+) exchange did not alter net bicarbonate reabsorption. We conclude that ammonia regulates CCD proton and potassium transport, at least in part, by stimulating apical H(+)-K(+)-ATPase.

NH4+ secretion in inner medullary collecting duct in potassium deprivation: role of colonic H+-K+-ATPase

NH4+ secretion in inner medullary collecting duct in potassium deprivation: Role of colonic H+-K+-ATPase.

BACKGROUND

In K+ deprivation (KD), gastric (g) H+-K+-ATPase (HKA) is suppressed, whereas colonic (c) HKA is induced in the terminal inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD). We hypothesized that in KD, cHKA is induced and can mediate the secretion of NH4+.

METHODS

Rats were sacrificed after 2, 3, 6, or 14 days on regular (NML) or K+-free (KD) diet. mRNA expression of HKA isoforms in terminal inner medulla was examined and correlated with NH4+ secretion in perfused IMCD in vitro.

RESULTS

Urinary NH4+ excretion increased after K+-free diet for six days. In terminal inner medulla, cHKA expression was strongly induced, whereas gHKA expression was decreased. NH4+ secretion increased by 62% in KD (JtNH4+ 0.57 vs. 0.92 pmol/min/mm tubule length, P < 0.001). Ouabain (1 mM) in perfusate inhibited NH4+ secretion in KD by 45% (P < 0.002) but not in NML. At luminal pH 7.7, which inhibits NH3 diffusion, NH4+ secretion in IMCD was 140% higher in KD (0.36 vs. 0.15, P < 0.03) and was sensitive to ouabain. ROMK-1 mRNA expression was induced in parallel with cHKA in inner medulla.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that in KD, cHKA replaces gHKA and mediates enhanced secretion of NH4+ (and H+) into the lumen facilitated by K+ recycling through ROMK-1.

Intrarenal distribution of the colonic H,K-ATPase mRNA in rabbit

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that the colonic H,K-ATPase isoform is expressed in the kidney and that a mRNA species highly homologous to the rat and guinea pig HKalpha2 is expressed in the cortical collecting duct (CCD) of the rabbit. The goals of this study were to determine if this mRNA is the rabbit homologue of HKalpha2 or a novel isoform and to determine intrarenal distribution of the HKalpha2 mRNA in rabbit.

METHODS

5'-RACE and Dye Deoxy Terminator chemistry were used to determine the full-length sequence of the rabbit HKalpha2 mRNA. The intrarenal distribution of HKalpha2 mRNA was determined in microdissected nephron segments, connecting tubule (CNT), and CCD cells isolated by immunodissection, as well as in the three cell types of the CCD. Principal cells and alpha- and beta-intercalated cells were isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. HKalpha2 mRNA levels were determined by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) or single-nephron RT-PCR (SN-RTPCR).

RESULTS

The full-length sequence of the rabbit kidney HKalpha2 mRNA was determined. This transcript is identical to the one expressed in rabbit distal colon. In microdissected nephron segments, strong HKalpha2 amplicons were present in the CNT, CCD, and outer medullary collecting duct (OMCD), whereas no signal was detected in the proximal tubule, distal convoluted tubule, think ascending limb, and inner medullary collecting duct. Roughly comparable levels of HKalpha2 mRNA were present in all three CCD cell types, and the highest levels were observed in a subpopulation most likely corresponding to CNT cells.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that the HKalpha2 mRNA is expressed in rabbit collecting duct is identical in size and sequence to the one expressed in rabbit distal colon. HKalpha2 mRNA in the rabbit kidney is selectively expressed in the CNT, CCD, and OMCD, and all three collecting duct subtypes express its mRNA.

H+,K+-ATPase

The H+,K+-ATPases comprise a group of integral membrane proteins that belong to the X+,K+-ATPase subfamily of P-type cation-transporting ATPases. Although these H+,K+-ATPase isoforms share approximately 60-70% amino acid identity, they exhibit discrete kinetic and pharmacological properties when expressed in heterologous systems. HK alpha2 has been categorized by its insensitivity to Sch-28080, an inhibitor of the gastric H+,K+-ATPase, and partial sensitivity to ouabain, an inhibitor of the Na+,K+-ATPase. This functional profile contrasts with the pharmacological sensitivities ascribed to HK alpha2 in transport studies in rat isolated medullary collecting ducts perfused in vitro and in mouse medullary collecting duct cell lines. HK alpha2 mRNA and protein abundance appears to be both tissue and site-specifically upregulated in response to chronic hypokalemia. This regulatory response has been localized to the outer and inner medulla. To reconcile these expressed sensitivities to those reported in vitro in isolated tubules and cells in culture, it would be necessary to invoke modification of the pharmacologic insensitivity of the colonic H+,K+-ATPase to Sch-28080. Although a 'unique' beta-subunit has been reported recently, this beta-subunit (beta(c)) is identical at the amino acid level to the recently cloned beta3-Na+,K+-ATPase. Moreover, while HK alpha2 can assemble indiscriminately with any X+,K+-ATPase beta-subunit, HK alpha2 has been reported to assemble stably with beta1-Na+,K+-ATPase in the renal medulla and in the distal colon. It remains conceivable that subunit assembly could be tissue specific and might respond to different physiological and pathophysiological stimuli. Furthermore, recent studies have suggested that the H+,K+-ATPase is both Na+-dependent and localized to the apical membrane in the distal colon. Therefore, future studies will need to resolve these discrepancies by determining if a unique, yet undiscovered H+,K+-ATPase isoform exists in kidney, or if post-translational modifications of the alpha- and/or beta-subunits could account for these functional diversities.

The colonic H+,K+-ATPase functions as a Na+-dependent K+(NH4+)-ATPase in apical membranes from rat distal colon

Recent studies have suggested that the colonic H+,K+-ATPase (HKalpha2) can secrete either Na+ or H+ in exchange for K+. If correct, this view would indicate that the transporter could function as either a Na+ or a H+ pump. To investigate this possibility a series of experiments was performed using apical membranes from rat colon which were enriched in colonic H+,K+-ATPase protein. An antibody specific for HKalpha2 was employed to determine whether HKalpha2 functions under physiological conditions as a Na+-dependent or Na+-independent K+-ATPase in this same membrane fraction. K+-ATPase activity was measured as [gamma-32P]ATP hydrolysis. The Na+-dependent K+-ATPase accounted for approximately 80% of overall K+-ATPase activity and was characterized by insensitivity to Sch-28080 but partial sensitivity to ouabain. The Na+-independent K+-ATPase activity was insensitive to both Sch-28080 and ouabain. Both types of K+-ATPase activity substituted NH4+ for K+ in a similar manner. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that when incubated with native distal colon membranes, the blocking antibody inhibited dramatically Na+-dependent K+-ATPase activity. Therefore, these data demonstrate that HKalpha2 can function in native distal colon apical membranes as a Na+-dependent K+-ATPase. Elucidation of the role of the pump as a transporter of Na+ versus H+ or NH4+ versus K+ in vivo will require additional studies.

H+-K+-ATPases: regulation and role in pathophysiological states

Molecular cloning experiments have identified the existence of two H+-K+-ATPases (HKAs), colonic and gastric. Recent functional and molecular studies indicate the presence of both transporters in the kidney, which are presumed to mediate the exchange of intracellular H+ for extracellular K+. On the basis of these studies, a picture is evolving that indicates differential regulation of HKAs at the molecular level in acid-base and electrolyte disorders. Of the two transporters, gastric HKA is expressed constitutively along the length of the collecting duct and is responsible for H+ secretion and K+ reabsorption under normal conditions and may be stimulated with acid-base perturbations and/or K+ depletion. This regulation may be species specific. To date there are no data to indicate that the colonic HKA (HKAc) plays a role in H+ secretion or K+ reabsorption under normal conditions. However, HKAc shows adaptive regulation in pathophysiological conditions such as K+ depletion, NaCl deficiency, and proximal renal tubular acidosis, suggesting an important role for this exchanger in potassium, HCO-3, and sodium (or chloride) reabsorption in disease states. The purpose of this review is to summarize recent functional and molecular studies on the regulation of HKAs in physiological and pathophysiological states. Possible signals responsible for regulation of HKAs in these conditions will be discussed. Furthermore, the role of these transporters in acid-base and electrolyte homeostasis will be evaluated in the context of genetically altered animals deficient in HKAc.

The nongastric H+-K+-ATPases: molecular and functional properties

The Na-K/H-K-ATPase gene family is divided in three subgroups including the Na-K-ATPases, mainly involved in whole body and cellular ion homeostasis, the gastric H-K-ATPase involved in gastric fluid acidification, and the newly described nongastric H-K-ATPases for which the identification of physiological roles is still in its infancy. The first member of this last subfamily was first identified in 1992, rapidly followed by the molecular cloning of several other members. The relationship between each member remains unclear. The functional properties of these H-K-ATPases have been studied after their ex vivo expression in various functional expression systems, including the Xenopus laevis oocyte, the insect Sf9 cell line, and the human HEK 293 cells. All these H-K-ATPase alpha-subunits appear to encode H-K-ATPases when exogenously expressed in such expression systems. Recent data suggest that these H-K-ATPases could also transport Na+ in exchange for K+, revealing a complex cation transport selectivity. Moreover, they display a unique pharmacological profile compared with the canonical Na-K-ATPases or the gastric H-K-ATPase. In addition to their molecular and functional characterizations, a major goal is to correlate the molecular expression of these cloned H-K-ATPases with the native K-ATPases activities described in vivo. This appears to be more complex than anticipated. The discrepancies between the functional data obtained by exogenous expression of the nongastric H-K-ATPases and the physiological data obtained in native organs could have several explanations as discussed in the present review. Extensive studies will be required in the future to better understand the physiological role of these H-K-ATPases, especially in disease processes including ionic or acid-base disorders.

Glu-857 moderates K+-dependent stimulation and SCH 28080-dependent inhibition of the gastric H,K-ATPase

The rabbit H,K-ATPase alpha- and beta-subunits were transiently expressed in HEK293 T cells. The co-expression of the H,K-ATPase alpha- and beta-subunits was essential for the functional H,K-ATPase. The K+-stimulated H,K-ATPase activity of 0.82 +/- 0.2 micromol/mg/h saturated with a K0.5 (KCl) of 0.6 +/- 0.1 mM, whereas the 2-methyl-8-(phenylmethoxy)imidazo[1,2a]pyridine-3-acetonitrile (SCH 28080)-inhibited ATPase of 0.62 +/- 0.07 micromol/mg/h saturated with a Ki (SCH 28080) of 1.0 +/- 0.3 microM. Site mutations were introduced at the N,N-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide-reactive residue, Glu-857, to evaluate the role of this residue in ATPase function. Variations in the side chain size and charge of this residue did not inhibit the specific activity of the H,K-ATPase, but reversal of the side chain charge by substitution of Lys or Arg for Glu produced a reciprocal change in the sensitivity of the H,K-ATPase to K+ and SCH 28080. The K0.5 for K+stimulated ATPase was decreased to 0.2 +/-.05 and 0.2 +/-.03 mM, respectively, in Lys-857 and Arg-857 site mutants, whereas the Ki for SCH 28080-dependent inhibition was increased to 6.5 +/- 1.4 and 5.9 +/- 1.5 microM, respectively. The H,K-ATPase kinetics were unaffected by the introduction of Ala at this site, but Leu produced a modest reciprocal effect. These data indicate that Glu-857 is not an essential residue for cation-dependent activity but that the residue influences the kinetics of both K+ and SCH 28080-mediated functions. This finding suggests a possible role of this residue in the conformational equilibrium of the H,K-ATPase.

Apical proton secretion by the inner stripe of the outer medullary collecting duct

The inner stripe of outer medullary collecting duct (OMCDis) is unique among collecting duct segments because both intercalated cells and principal cells secrete protons and reabsorb luminal bicarbonate. The current study characterized the mechanisms of OMCDis proton secretion. We used in vitro microperfusion, and we separately studied the principal cell and intercalated cell using differential uptake of the fluorescent, pH-sensitive dye, 2', 7'-bis(2-carboxyethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein (BCECF). Both the principal cell and intercalated cell secreted protons, as identified as Na+/H+ exchange-independent intracellular pH (pHi) recovery from an intracellular acid load. Two proton transport activities were identified in the principal cell; one was luminal potassium dependent and Sch-28080 sensitive and the other was luminal potassium independent and luminal bafilomycin A1 sensitive. Thus the OMCDis principal cell expresses both apical H+-K+-ATPase and H+-ATPase activity. Intercalated cell Na+/H+ exchange-independent pHi recovery was approximately twice that of the principal cell and was mediated by pharmacologically similar mechanisms. We conclude 1) the OMCDis principal cell may contribute to both luminal potassium reabsorption and urinary acidification, roles fundamentally different from those of the principal cell in the cortical collecting duct; and 2) the OMCDis intercalated cell proton transporters are functionally similar to those in the principal cell, raising the possibility that an H+-K+-ATPase similar to the one present in the principal cell may contribute to intercalated cell proton secretion.

Nitric oxide inhibits transcription of the Na+-K+-ATPase alpha1-subunit gene in an MTAL cell line

Nitric oxide (NO) has been implicated as an autocrine modulator of active sodium transport. To determine whether tonic exposure to NO influences active sodium transport in epithelial cells, we established transfected medullary thick ascending limb of Henle (MTAL) cell lines that overexpressed NO synthase-2 (NOS2) and analyzed the effects of deficient or continuous NO production [with or without NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) in the culture medium, respectively] on Na+-K+-ATPase function and expression. The NOS2-transfected cells exhibited high-level NOS2 expression and NO generation, which did not affect cell viability or cloning efficiency. NOS2-transfected cells were grown in the presence of vehicle, NG-nitro-D-arginine methyl ester (D-NAME), or L-NAME for 16 h, after which 86Rb+ uptake assays, Northern analysis, or nuclear run-on transcription assays were performed. The NOS2-transfected cells allowed to produce NO continuously (vehicle or D-NAME) exhibited lower rates of ouabain-sensitive 86Rb+ uptake ( approximately 65%), lower levels of Na+-K+-ATPase alpha1-subunit mRNA ( approximately 60%), and reduced rates of de novo Na+-K+-ATPase alpha1-subunit transcription compared with L-NAME-treated cells. These results have uncovered a novel effect of NO to inhibit transcription of the Na+-K+-ATPase alpha1-subunit gene.

H-K-ATPase in the RCCT-28A rabbit cortical collecting duct cell line

In the present study, we demonstrate that the rabbit cortical collecting duct cell line RCCT-28A possesses three distinct H-K-ATPase catalytic subunits (HKalpha). Intracellular measurements of RCCT-28A cells using the pH-sensitive dye 2', 7'-bis(2-carboxyethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein (BCECF) indicated that the mechanism accounting for recovery from an acid load exhibited both K+ dependence and sensitivity to Sch-28080 characteristic of H-K-ATPases. Recovery rates were 0.022 +/- 0.005 pH units/min in the presence of K+, 0.004 +/- 0.002 in the absence of K+, and 0.002 +/- 0.002 in the presence of Sch-28080. The mRNAs encoding the HKalpha1 subunit and the H-K-ATPase beta-subunit (HKbeta) were detected by RT-PCR. In addition, two HKalpha2 species were found by RT-PCR and 5' rapid amplification of cDNA ends (5'-RACE) in the rabbit renal cortex. One was homologous to HKalpha2 cDNAs generated from other species, and the second was novel. The latter, referred to as HKalpha2c, encoded an apparent 61-residue amino-terminal extension that bore no homology to reported sequences. Antipeptide antibodies were designed on the basis of this extension, and these antibodies recognized a protein of the appropriate mass in both rabbit renal tissue samples and RCCT-28A cells. Such findings constitute very strong evidence for expression of the HKalpha2c subunit in vivo. The results suggest that the rabbit kidney and RCCT-28A cells express at least three distinct H-K-ATPases.

ATP1AL1, a member of the non-gastric H,K-ATPase family, functions as a sodium pump

The human ATP1AL1-encoded protein (an alpha subunit of the human non-gastric H,K-ATPase) has previously been shown to assemble with the gastric H,K-ATPase beta subunit (gH,Kbeta) to form a functionally active ionic pump in HEK 293 cells. This pump has been found to be sensitive to both SCH 28080 and ouabain. However, the 86Rb+-influx mediated by the ATP1AL1-gH,Kbeta heterodimer in HEK 293 cells is at least 1 order of magnitude larger than the maximum ouabain-sensitive proton efflux detected in the same cells. In this study we find that the intracellular Na+ content in cells expressing ATP1AL1 and gH,Kbeta is two times lower than that in control HEK 293 cells in response to incubation for 3 h in the presence of 1 microM ouabain. Moreover, analysis of net Na+ efflux in HEK 293 expressing the ATP1AL1-gH,Kbeta heterodimer reveals the presence of Na+ extrusion activity that is not sensitive to 1 microM ouabain but can be inhibited by 1 mM of this drug. In contrast, ouabain-inhibitable Na+ efflux in control HEK 293 cells is similarly sensitive to either 1 microM or 1 mM ouabain. Finally, 86Rb+ influx through the ATP1AL1-gH,Kbeta complex is comparable to the 1 mM ouabain-sensitive Na+ efflux in the same cells. The data presented here suggest that the enzyme formed by ATP1AL1 and the gastric H,K-ATPase beta subunit in HEK 293 cells mediates primarily Na+,K+ rather than H+,K+ exchange.