Dominant negative Rab3D mutants reduce GTP-bound endogenous Rab3D in pancreatic acini

Improved Tol2-mediated enhancer trap identifies weakly expressed genes during liver and β cell development and regeneration in zebrafish

The liver and pancreas are two major digestive organs, and among the different cell types in them, hepatocytes and the insulin-producing β cells have roles in both health and diseases. Accordingly, clinicians and researchers are very interested in the mechanisms underlying the development and regeneration of liver and pancreatic β cells. Gene and enhancer traps such as the Tol2 transposon-based system are useful for identifying genes potentially involved in developmental processes in the zebrafish model. Here, we developed a strategy that combines a Tol2-mediated enhancer trap and the Cre/loxP system by using loxP-flanked reporters driven by β cell- or hepatocyte-specific promoters and the upstream activating sequence (UAS)-driving Cre. Two double-transgenic reporter lines, Tg(ins:loxP-CFPNTR-loxP-DsRed; 10×UAS:Cre, cryaa:Venus) and Tg(fabp10:loxP-CFPNTR-loxP-DsRed; 10×UAS:Cre, cryaa:Venus), were established to label pancreatic β cells and hepatocytes, respectively. These two double-transgenic lines were each crossed with the Tol2-enhancer trap founder lines to screen for and identify genes expressed in the β cell and hepatocytes during development. This trap system coupled with application of nitroreductase (NTR)/metronidazole (Mtz)-mediated cell ablation could identify genes expressed during regeneration. Of note, pilot enhancer traps captured transiently and weakly expressed genes such as rab3da and ensab with higher efficiencies than traditional enhancer trap systems. In conclusion, through permanent genetic labeling by Cre/loxP, this improved Tol2-mediated enhancer trap system provides a promising method to identify transiently or weakly expressed, but potentially important, genes during development and regeneration.

Molecular architecture of mouse and human pancreatic zymogen granules: protein components and their copy numbers

A molecular model of pancreatic zymogen granule (ZG) is critical for understanding its functions. We have extensively characterized the composition and membrane topology of rat ZG proteins. In this study, we report the development of targeted proteomics approaches to quantify representative mouse and human ZG proteins using LC-SRM and heavy isotope-labeled synthetic peptides. The absolute quantities of mouse Rab3D and VAMP8 were determined as 1242 ± 218 and 2039 ± 151 (mean ± SEM) copies per ZG. The size distribution and the averaged diameter of ZGs 750 ± 23 nm (mean ± SEM) were determined by atomic force microscopy. The absolute quantification of Rab3D was then validated using semi-quantitative Western blotting with purified GST-Rab3D proteins as an internal standard. To extend our proteomics analysis to human pancreas, ZGs were purified using human acini obtained from pancreatic islet transplantation center. One hundred and eighty human ZG proteins were identified for the first time including both the membrane and the content proteins. Furthermore, the copy number per ZG of human Rab3D and VAMP8 were determined to be 1182 ± 45 and 485 ± 15 (mean ± SEM). The comprehensive proteomic analyses of mouse and human pancreatic ZGs have the potential to identify species-specific ZG proteins. The determination of protein copy numbers on pancreatic ZGs represents a significant advance towards building a quantitative molecular model of a prototypical secretory vesicle using targeted proteomics approaches. The identification of human ZG proteins lays a foundation for subsequent studies of altered ZG compositions and secretion in pancreatic diseases.

Canine Salivary Glands: Analysis of Rab and SNARE Protein Expression and SNARE Complex Formation With Diverse Tissue Properties

The comparative structure and expression of salivary components and vesicular transport proteins in the canine major salivary glands were investigated. Histochemical analysis revealed that the morphology of the five major salivary glands-parotid, submandibular, polystomatic sublingual, monostomatic sublingual, and zygomatic glands-was greatly diverse. Immunoblot analysis revealed that expression levels of α-amylase and antimicrobial proteins, such as lysozyme, lactoperoxidase, and lactoferrin, differed among the different glands. Similarly, Rab proteins (Rab3d, Rab11a, Rab11b, Rab27a, and Rab27b) and soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion protein attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins VAMP4, VAMP8, syntaxin-2, syntaxin-3, syntaxin-4, and syntaxin-6 were expressed at various levels in individual glands. mmunohistochemistry of Rab3d, Rab11b, Rab27b, VAMP4, VAMP8, syntaxin-4, and syntaxin-6 revealed their predominant expression in serous acinar cells, demilunes, and ductal cells. The VAMP4/syntaxin-6 SNARE complex, which is thought to be involved in the maturation of secretory granules in the Golgi field, was found more predominantly in the monostomatic sublingual gland than in the parotid gland. These results suggest that protein expression profiles in canine salivary glands differ among individual glands and reflect the properties of their specialized functions.

Hepatitis C Virus-Induced Rab32 Aggregation and Its Implications for Virion Assembly

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is highly dependent on cellular factors for viral propagation. Using high-throughput next-generation sequencing, we analyzed the host transcriptomic changes and identified 30 candidate genes which were upregulated in cell culture-grown HCV (HCVcc)-infected cells. Of these candidates, we selected Rab32 for further investigation. Rab32 is a small GTPase that regulates a variety of intracellular membrane-trafficking events in various cell types. In this study, we demonstrated that both mRNA and protein levels of Rab32 were increased in HCV-infected cells. Furthermore, we showed that HCV infection converted the predominantly expressed GTP-bound Rab32 to GDP-bound Rab32, contributing to the aggregation of Rab32 and thus making it less sensitive to cellular degradation machinery. In addition, GDP-bound Rab32 selectively interacted with HCV core protein and deposited core protein into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated Rab32-derived aggregated structures in the perinuclear region, which were likely to be viral assembly sites. Using RNA interference technology, we demonstrated that Rab32 was required for the assembly step but not for other stages of the HCV life cycle. Taken together, these data suggest that HCV may modulate Rab32 activity to facilitate virion assembly.

IMPORTANCE

Rab32, a member of the Ras superfamily of small GTPases, regulates various intracellular membrane-trafficking events in many cell types. In this study, we showed that HCV infection concomitantly increased Rab32 expression at the transcriptional level and altered the balance between GDP- and GTP-bound Rab32 toward production of Rab32-GDP. GDP-bound Rab32 selectively interacted with HCV core protein and enriched core in the ER-associated Rab32-derived aggregated structures that were probably necessary for viral assembly. Indeed, we showed that Rab32 was specifically required for the assembly of HCV. Collectively, our study identifies that Rab32 is a novel host factor essential for HCV particle assembly.

Crosstalk between purinergic receptors and canonical signaling pathways in the mouse salivary gland

Isolated clusters of mouse parotid acinar cells in combination with live cell imaging were used to explore the crosstalk in molecular signaling between purinergic, cholinergic and adrenergic pathways that integrate to control fluid and protein secretion. This crosstalk was manifested by (1) β-adrenergic receptor activation and amplification of P2X4R evoked Ca(2+) signals, (2) β-adrenergic-induced amplification of P2X7R-evoked Ca(2+) signals and (3) muscarinic receptor induced activation of P2X7Rs via exocytotic activity. The findings from our study reveal that purinoceptor-mediated Ca(2+) signaling is modulated by crosstalk with canonical signaling pathways in parotid acinar cells. Integration of these signals are likely important for dynamic control of saliva secretion to match physiological demand in the parotid gland.

Mutational Analysis of Rab3 Function for Controlling Active Zone Protein Composition at the Drosophila Neuromuscular Junction

At synapses, the release of neurotransmitter is regulated by molecular machinery that aggregates at specialized presynaptic release sites termed active zones. The complement of active zone proteins at each site is a determinant of release efficacy and can be remodeled to alter synapse function. The small GTPase Rab3 was previously identified as playing a novel role that controls the distribution of active zone proteins to individual release sites at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction. Rab3 has been extensively studied for its role in the synaptic vesicle cycle; however, the mechanism by which Rab3 controls active zone development remains unknown. To explore this mechanism, we conducted a mutational analysis to determine the molecular and structural requirements of Rab3 function at Drosophila synapses. We find that GTP-binding is required for Rab3 to traffick to synapses and distribute active zone components across release sites. Conversely, the hydrolytic activity of Rab3 is unnecessary for this function. Through a structure-function analysis we identify specific residues within the effector-binding switch regions that are required for Rab3 function and determine that membrane attachment is essential. Our findings suggest that Rab3 controls the distribution of active zone components via a vesicle docking mechanism that is consistent with standard Rab protein function.

COPII-Dependent ER Export: A Critical Component of Insulin Biogenesis and β-Cell ER Homeostasis

Pancreatic β-cells possess a highly active protein synthetic and export machinery in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to accommodate the massive production of proinsulin. ER homeostasis is vital for β-cell functions and is maintained by the delicate balance between protein synthesis, folding, export, and degradation. Disruption of ER homeostasis by diabetes-causing factors leads to β-cell death. Among the 4 components to maintain ER homeostasis in β-cells, the role of ER export in insulin biogenesis is the least understood. To address this knowledge gap, the present study investigated the molecular mechanism of proinsulin ER export in MIN6 cells and primary islets. Two inhibitory mutants of the secretion-associated RAS-related protein (Sar)1 small GTPase, known to specifically block coat protein complex II (COPII)-dependent ER export, were overexpressed in β-cells using recombinant adenoviruses. Results from this approach, as well as small interfering RNA-mediated Sar1 knockdown, demonstrated that defective Sar1 function blocked proinsulin ER export and abolished its conversion to mature insulin in MIN6 cells, isolated mouse, and human islets. It is further revealed, using an in vitro vesicle formation assay, that proinsulin was packaged into COPII vesicles in a GTP- and Sar1-dependent manner. Blockage of COPII-dependent ER exit by Sar1 mutants strongly induced ER morphology change, ER stress response, and β-cell apoptosis. These responses were mediated by the PKR (double-stranded RNA-dependent kinase)-like ER kinase (PERK)/eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α (p-eIF2α) and inositol-requiring protein 1 (IRE1)/x-box binding protein 1 (Xbp1) pathways but not via activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6). Collectively, results from the study demonstrate that COPII-dependent ER export plays a vital role in insulin biogenesis, ER homeostasis, and β-cell survival.

Rab27A Is Present in Mouse Pancreatic Acinar Cells and Is Required for Digestive Enzyme Secretion

The small G-protein Rab27A has been shown to regulate the intracellular trafficking of secretory granules in various cell types. However, the presence, subcellular localization and functional impact of Rab27A on digestive enzyme secretion by mouse pancreatic acinar cells are poorly understood. Ashen mice, which lack the expression of Rab27A due to a spontaneous mutation, were used to investigate the function of Rab27A in pancreatic acinar cells. Isolated pancreatic acini were prepared from wild-type or ashen mouse pancreas by collagenase digestion, and CCK- or carbachol-induced amylase secretion was measured. Secretion occurring through the major-regulated secretory pathway, which is characterized by zymogen granules secretion, was visualized by Dextran-Texas Red labeling of exocytotic granules. The minor-regulated secretory pathway, which operates through the endosomal/lysosomal pathway, was characterized by luminal cell surface labeling of lysosomal associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP1). Compared to wild-type, expression of Rab27B was slightly increased in ashen mouse acini, while Rab3D and digestive enzymes (amylase, lipase, chymotrypsin and elastase) were not affected. Localization of Rab27B, Rab3D and amylase by immunofluorescence was similar in both wild-type and ashen acinar cells. The GTP-bound states of Rab27B and Rab3D in wild-type and ashen mouse acini also remained similar in amount. In contrast, acini from ashen mice showed decreased amylase release induced by CCK- or carbachol. Rab27A deficiency reduced the apical cell surface labeling of LAMP1, but did not affect that of Dextran-Texas Red incorporation into the fusion pockets at luminal surface. These results show that Rab27A is present in mouse pancreatic acinar cells and mainly regulates secretion through the minor-regulated pathway.

Vesicle associated membrane protein 8 (VAMP8)-mediated zymogen granule exocytosis is dependent on endosomal trafficking via the constitutive-like secretory pathway

Acinar cell zymogen granules (ZG) express 2 isoforms of the vesicle-associated membrane protein family (VAMP2 and -8) thought to regulate exocytosis. Expression of tetanus toxin to cleave VAMP2 in VAMP8 knock-out (-/-) acini confirmed that VAMP2 and -8 are the primary VAMPs for regulated exocytosis, each contributing ∼50% of the response. Analysis of VAMP8(-/-) acini indicated that although stimulated secretion was significantly reduced, a compensatory increase in constitutive secretion maintained total secretion equivalent to wild type (WT). Using a perifusion system to follow secretion over time revealed VAMP2 mediates an early rapid phase peaking and falling within 2-3 min, whereas VAMP8 controls a second prolonged phase that peaks at 4 min and slowly declines over 20 min to support the protracted secretory response. VAMP8(-/-) acini show increased expression of the endosomal proteins Ti-VAMP7 (2-fold) and Rab11a (4-fold) and their redistribution from endosomes to ZGs. Expression of GDP-trapped Rab11a-S25N inhibited secretion exclusively from the VAMP8 but not the VAMP2 pathway. VAMP8(-/-) acini also showed a >90% decrease in the early endosomal proteins Rab5/D52/EEA1, which control anterograde trafficking in the constitutive-like secretory pathway. In WT acini, short term (14-16 h) culture also results in a >90% decrease in Rab5/D52/EEA1 and a complete loss of the VAMP8 pathway, whereas VAMP2-secretion remains intact. Remarkably, rescue of Rab5/D52/EEA1 expression restored the VAMP8 pathway. Expressed D52 shows extensive colocalization with Rab11a and VAMP8 and partially copurifies with ZG fractions. These results indicate that robust trafficking within the constitutive-like secretory pathway is required for VAMP8- but not VAMP2-mediated ZG exocytosis.

Role of vesicular nucleotide transporter VNUT (SLC17A9) in release of ATP from AR42J cells and mouse pancreatic acinar cells

ATP is released from cells in response to various stimuli. Our previous studies on pancreas indicated that pancreatic acini could be major stores of secreted ATP. In the present study, our aim was to establish the role of the vesicular nucleotide transporter (VNUT), SLC17A9, in storage and release of ATP. Freshly prepared acini from mice and AR42J rat acinar cells were used in this study. We illustrate that in AR42J cells, quinacrine (an ATP store marker) and Bodipy ATP (a fluorescent ATP analog) co-localized with VNUT-mCherry to vesicles/granules. Furthermore, in acini and AR42J cells, a marker of the zymogen granule membranes, Rab3D, and VNUT co-localized. Dexamethasone treatment of AR42J cells promoted formation of acinar structures, paralleled by increased amylase and VNUT expression, and increased ATP release in response to cholinergic stimulation. Mechanical stimulus (pressure) and cell swelling also induced ATP release, but this was not influenced by dexamethasone, most likely indicating different non-zymogen-related release mechanism. In conclusion, we propose that VNUT-dependent ATP release pathway is associated with agonist-induced secretion process and downstream purinergic signalling in pancreatic ducts.

Tumor protein D52 controls trafficking of an apical endolysosomal secretory pathway in pancreatic acinar cells

Zymogen granule (ZG) formation in acinar cells involves zymogen cargo sorting from trans-Golgi into immature secretory granules (ISGs). ISG maturation progresses by removal of lysosomal membrane and select content proteins, which enter endosomal intermediates prior to their apical exocytosis. Constitutive and stimulated secretion through this mechanism is termed the constitutive-like and minor-regulated pathways, respectively. However, the molecular components that control membrane trafficking within these endosomal compartments are largely unknown. We show that tumor protein D52 is highly expressed in endosomal compartments following pancreatic acinar cell stimulation and regulates apical exocytosis of an apically directed endolysosomal compartment. Secretion from the endolysosomal compartment was detected by cell-surface antigen labeling of lysosome-associated membrane protein LAMP1, which is absent from ZGs, and had incomplete overlap with surface labeling of synaptotagmin 1, a marker of ZG exocytosis. Although culturing (16-18 h) of isolated acinar cells is accompanied by a loss of secretory responsiveness, the levels of SNARE proteins necessary for ZG exocytosis were preserved. However, levels of endolysosomal proteins D52, EEA1, Rab5, and LAMP1 markedly decreased with culture. When D52 levels were restored by adenoviral delivery, the levels of these regulatory proteins and secretion of both LAMP1 (endolysosomal) and amylase was strongly enhanced. These secretory effects were absent in alanine and aspartate substitutions of serine 136, the major D52 phosphorylation site, and were inhibited by brefeldin A, which does not directly affect the ZG compartment. Our results indicate that D52 directly regulates apical endolysosomal secretion and are consistent with previous studies, suggesting that this pathway indirectly regulates ZG secretion of digestive enzymes.

EPI64B acts as a GTPase-activating protein for Rab27B in pancreatic acinar cells

The small GTPase Rab27B localizes to the zymogen granule membranes and plays an important role in regulating protein secretion by pancreatic acinar cells, as does Rab3D. A common guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) for Rab3 and Rab27 has been reported; however, the GTPase-activating protein (GAP) specific for Rab27B has not been identified. In this study, the expression in mouse pancreatic acini of two candidate Tre-2/Bub2/Cdc16 (TBC) domain-containing proteins, EPI64 (TBC1D10A) and EPI64B (TBC1D10B), was first demonstrated. Their GAP activity on digestive enzyme secretion was examined by adenovirus-mediated overexpression of EPI64 and EPI64B in isolated pancreatic acini. EPI64B almost completely abolished the GTP-bound form of Rab27B, without affecting GTP-Rab3D. Overexpression of EPI64B also enhanced amylase release. This enhanced release was independent of Rab27A, but dependent on Rab27B, as shown using acini from genetically modified mice. EPI64 had a mild effect on both GTP-Rab27B and amylase release. Co-overexpression of EPI64B with Rab27B can reverse the inhibitory effect of Rab27B on amylase release. Mutations that block the GAP activity decreased the inhibitory effect of EPI64B on the GTP-bound state of Rab27B and abolished the enhancing effect of EPI64B on the amylase release. These data suggest that EPI64B can serve as a potential physiological GAP for Rab27B and thereby participate in the regulation of exocytosis in pancreatic acinar cells.

Rab-A1c GTPase defines a population of the trans-Golgi network that is sensitive to endosidin1 during cytokinesis in Arabidopsis

In plant cells, Rab-A proteins have been implicated to play important roles in membrane trafficking from the trans-Golgi network (TGN) to the plasma membrane/cell wall and to the newly formed cell plate in cytokinesis. But how different Rab-A proteins may work in the TGN is not well studied. We show here that RAB-A1c defines a population of TGN that is partially overlapped with the VHA-a1 marked-TGN. Interestingly, the morphology of RAB-A1c defined-TGN is sensitive to endosidin 1 (ES1), but not to wortmannin. In mitotic cells, RAB-A1c is relocated to the cell plate. We revealed that this process could be interrupted by ES1, but not by wortmannin. In addition, root growth and cytokinesis in root mitotic cells of rab-a1a/b/c triple mutant seedlings are hypersensitive to lower concentrations of ES1. ES1 is known to selectively block the transport of several plasma membrane auxin transporters, including PIN2 and AUX1 at the TGN. Together with the known facts that members of Rab-A1 proteins are involved in auxin-mediated responses in root growth and that mutations in TRAPPII, a protein complex that acts upstream of RAB-A1c, also selectively impair the transport of PIN2 and AUX1 at the TGN, we propose that the Rab-A1-mediated trafficking pathways around the TGN, but not Rab-A1s directly, are the target of ES1.

Rab3D is critical for secretory granule maturation in PC12 cells

Neuropeptide- and hormone-containing secretory granules (SGs) are synthesized at the trans-Golgi network (TGN) as immature secretory granules (ISGs) and complete their maturation in the F-actin-rich cell cortex. This maturation process is characterized by acidification-dependent processing of cargo proteins, condensation of the SG matrix and removal of membrane and proteins not destined to mature secretory granules (MSGs). Here we addressed a potential role of Rab3 isoforms in these maturation steps by expressing their nucleotide-binding deficient mutants in PC12 cells. Our data show that the presence of Rab3D(N135I) decreases the restriction of maturing SGs to the F-actin-rich cell cortex, blocks the removal of the endoprotease furin from SGs and impedes the processing of the luminal SG protein secretogranin II. This strongly suggests that Rab3D is implicated in the subcellular localization and maturation of ISGs.

Functional analysis of small Rab GTPases in cytokinesis in Arabidopsis thaliana

Rab proteins are key regulators of membrane transport in eukaryotes. Recent evidence from different species supports the notion that some Rab proteins are crucial for cytokinesis, a pivotal procedure for successful cell division. As a family of monomeric small GTPases of the Ras superfamily, the function of Rab proteins is modulated by guanine nucleotide binding and hydrolysis. To investigate the function of Rab proteins, creating dominant negative or constitutively active mutant forms of a Rab protein is a widely used approach. To study cytokinesis in plant cells, using fluorescent dye to highlight the cell shape and the nuclei, and to monitor the formation of the newly formed cell plate in mitotic cells, is easy and useful. In this chapter, we describe detailed methods for (1) generating transgenic plants expressing dominant negative or constitutively active form of RAB-A1c; (2) fluorescent staining of cell shape, cell wall, and nuclei of mitotic root tip cells; (3) fluorescent staining of newly formed cell plate; and (4) detecting fluorescent signals using Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy in the genetic model plant species Arabidopsis thaliana.

Rab3d is required for Xenopus anterior neurulation by regulating Noggin secretion

Rab3d is a member of the Ras-related small GTPase family of secretory Rab, Rab3. In this study, we showed that Xenopus Rab3d is expressed specifically in the anterior border of the neural plate when the neural plate converges and folds to initiate neural tube formation. Morpholino-mediated knockdown of Rab3d resulted in neurulation defects both in neural plate convergence and folding. Interestingly, perturbation of BMP signaling rescued neurulation defects of Rab3d morphants, suggesting that Rab3d inhibits BMP signaling during neurulation. By secretion assay in the Xenopus animal cap, we found that Rab3d specifically regulates secretion of a BMP antagonist, Noggin, but not Chordin and Wnts. We also found that Rab3d is co-localized with Noggin and that this interaction is dependent on the GTP/GDP cycle of Rab3d. Collectively, these findings suggest that Rab3d-mediated secretion regulation of a BMP antagonist, Noggin, is one of the mechanisms of BMP antagonism during Xenopus anterior neurulation.

Quantitative analysis of synaptic vesicle Rabs uncovers distinct yet overlapping roles for Rab3a and Rab27b in Ca2+-triggered exocytosis

Rab GTPases are molecular switches that orchestrate protein complexes before membrane fusion reactions. In synapses, Rab3 and Rab5 proteins have been implicated in the exo-endocytic cycling of synaptic vesicles (SVs), but an involvement of additional Rabs cannot be excluded. Here, combining high-resolution mass spectrometry and chemical labeling (iTRAQ) together with quantitative immunoblotting and fluorescence microscopy, we have determined the exocytotic (Rab3a, Rab3b, Rab3c, and Rab27b) and endocytic (Rab4b, Rab5a/b, Rab10, Rab11b, and Rab14) Rab machinery of SVs. Analysis of two closely related proteins, Rab3a and Rab27b, revealed colocalization in synaptic nerve terminals, where they reside on distinct but overlapping SV pools. Moreover, whereas Rab3a readily dissociates from SVs during Ca(2+)-triggered exocytosis, and is susceptible to membrane extraction by Rab-GDI, Rab27b persists on SV membranes upon stimulation and is resistant to GDI-coupled Rab retrieval. Finally, we demonstrate that selective modulation of the GTP/GDP switch mechanism of Rab27b impairs SV recycling, suggesting that Rab27b, probably in concert with Rab3s, is involved in SV exocytosis.

ATP storage and uptake by isolated pancreatic zymogen granules

ATP is released from pancreatic acini in response to cholinergic and hormonal stimulation. The same stimuli cause exocytosis of ZG (zymogen granules) and release of digestive enzymes. The aim of the present study was to determine whether ZG stored ATP and to characterize the uptake mechanism for ATP transport into the ZG. ZG were isolated and the ATP content was measured using luciferin/luciferase assays and was related to protein in the sample. The estimate of ATP concentration in freshly isolated granules was 40-120 microM. The ATP uptake had an apparent Km value of 4.9+/-2.1 mM when granules were incubated without Mg2+ and a Km value of 0.47+/-0.05 mM in the presence of Mg2+, both in pH 6.0 buffers. The uptake of ATP was significantly higher at pH 7.2 compared with pH 6.0 solutions. The anion transport blockers DIDS (4,4'-di-isothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonate) and Evans Blue inhibited ATP transport. Western blot analysis on the ZG showed the presence of VNUT (vesicular nucleotide transporter). Together, these findings indicate that VNUT may be responsible for the ATP uptake into ZG. Furthermore, the present study shows the presence of ATP together with digestive enzymes in ZG. This indicates that co-released ATP would regulate P2 receptors in pancreatic ducts and, thus, ductal secretion, and this would aid delivery of enzymes to the duodenum.

Cytosolic LC3 ratio as a quantitative index of macroautophagy

Macroautophagy, an intracellular bulk degradation process and a typical form of autophagy in eukaryotes, is sensitive to physiological regulation, such as the supply and deprivation of nutrients. Microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3), a mammalian homologue of yeast Atg8, plays a critical role in macroautophagy formation and is considered a suitable marker for this process. In mammalian cells, there is a limitation for biochemical and morphological methods to monitor autophagy within a short period of time. During analysis of the subcellular distribution of LC3, we found that the cytosolic fraction contains not only a precursor form (LC3-I), but also an apparently active form, denoted as LC3-IIs. Both LC3-I and LC3-IIs in the cytosolic fraction, and thus the LC3-IIs/I ratio (designated the cytosolic LC3 ratio), were more responsive to amino acids than monitoring LC3-II or the LC3-II/I ratio in the total homogenate, and remarkably reflected the total proteolytic flux in fresh rat hepatocytes and the cultured H4-II-E cell line. Thus, in addition to representing a sensitive index of macroautophagy, examining the cytosolic LC3 ratio is an easy and quick quantitative method for monitoring the regulation of this process in hepatocytes and H4-II-E cells.

Sdmg1 is a component of secretory granules in mouse secretory exocrine tissues

Sdmg1 is a conserved eukaryotic transmembrane protein that is mainly expressed in the gonads where it may have a role in mediating signaling between somatic cells and germ cells. In this study we demonstrate that secretory exocrine cells in the pancreas, salivary gland, and mammary gland also express Sdmg1. Furthermore, we show that Sdmg1 expression is up-regulated during pancreas development when regulated secretory granules start to appear, and that Sdmg1 colocalizes with secretory granule markers in adult pancreatic acinar cells. In addition, we show that Sdmg1 co-purifies with secretory granules during subcellular fractionation of the pancreas and that Sdmg1 and the secretory granule marker Vamp2 are localized to distinct subdomains in the secretory granule membrane. These data suggest that Sdmg1 is a component of regulated secretory granules in exocrine secretory cells and that the developmental regulation of Sdmg1 expression is related to a role for Sdmg1 in post-Golgi membrane trafficking.

Small G proteins as key regulators of pancreatic digestive enzyme secretion

Small GTP-binding (G) proteins act as molecular switches to regulate a number of cellular processes, including vesicular transport. Emerging evidence indicates that small G proteins regulate a number of steps in the secretion of pancreatic acinar cells. Diverse small G proteins have been localized at discrete compartments along the secretory pathway and particularly on the secretory granule. Rab3D, Rab27B, and Rap1 are present on the granule membrane and play a role in the steps leading up to exocytosis. Whether the function of these G proteins is simply to ensure appropriate targeting or if they are involved as regulatory molecules is discussed. Most evidence suggests that Rab3D and Rab27B play a role in tethering the secretory granule to its target membrane. Other Rabs have been identified on the secretory granule that are associated with different steps in the secretory pathway. The Rho family small G proteins RhoA and Rac1 also regulate secretion through remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton. Possible mechanisms for regulation of these G proteins and their effector molecules are considered.

Rap1 activation plays a regulatory role in pancreatic amylase secretion

Rap1 is a member of the Ras superfamily of small GTP-binding proteins and is localized on pancreatic zymogen granules. The current study was designed to determine whether GTP-Rap1 is involved in the regulation of amylase secretion. Rap1A/B and the two Rap1 guanine nucleotide exchange factors, Epac1 and CalDAG-GEF III, were identified in mouse pancreatic acini. A fraction of both Rap1 and Epac1 colocalized with amylase in zymogen granules, but only Rap1 was integral to the zymogen granule membranes. Stimulation with cholecystokinin (CCK), carbachol, and vasoactive intestinal peptide all induced Rap1 activation, as did calcium ionophore A23187, phorbol ester, forskolin, 8-bromo-cyclic AMP, and the Epac-specific cAMP analog 8-pCPT-2'-O-Me-cAMP. The phospholipase C inhibitor U-73122 abolished carbachol- but not forskolin-induced Rap1 activation. Co-stimulation with carbachol and 8-pCPT-2'-O-Me-cAMP led to an additive effect on Rap1 activation, whereas a synergistic effect was seen on amylase release. Although the protein kinase A inhibitor H-89 abolished forskolin-stimulated CREB phosphorylation, it did not modify forskolin-induced GTP-Rap1 levels, excluding PKA participation. Overexpression of Rap1 GTPase-activating protein, which blocked Rap1 activation, reduced the effect of 8-bromo-cyclic AMP, 8-pCPT-2'-O-Me-cAMP, and vasoactive intestinal peptide on amylase release by 60% and reduced CCK- as well as carbachol-stimulated pancreatic amylase release by 40%. These findings indicate that GTP-Rap1 is required for pancreatic amylase release. Rap1 activation not only mediates the cAMP-evoked response via Epac1 but is also involved in CCK- and carbachol-induced amylase release, with their action most likely mediated by CalDAG-GEF III.

Direct interaction between Rab3D and the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor and trafficking through regulated secretory vesicles in lacrimal gland acinar cells

The lacrimal gland is responsible for tear production, and a major protein found in tears is secretory component (SC), the proteolytically cleaved fragment of the extracellular domain of the polymeric Ig receptor (pIgR), which is the receptor mediating the basal-to-apical transcytosis of polymeric immunoglobulins across epithelial cells. Immunofluorescent labeling of rabbit lacrimal gland acinar cells (LGACs) revealed that the small GTPase Rab3D, a regulated secretory vesicle marker, and the pIgR are colocalized in subapical membrane vesicles. In addition, the secretion of SC from primary cultures of LGACs was stimulated by the cholinergic agonist carbachol (CCH), and its release rate was very similar to that of other regulated secretory proteins in LGACs. In pull-down assays from resting LGACs, recombinant wild-type Rab3D (Rab3DWT) or the GDP-locked mutant Rab3DT36N both pulled down pIgR, but the GTP-locked mutant Rab3DQ81L did not. When the pull-down assays were performed in the presence of guanosine-5'-(gamma-thio)-triphosphate, GTP, or guanosine-5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate), binding of Rab3DWT to pIgR was inhibited. In blot overlays, recombinant Rab3DWT bound to immunoprecipitated pIgR, suggesting that Rab3D and pIgR may interact directly. Adenovirus-mediated overexpression of mutant Rab3DT36N in LGACs inhibited CCH-stimulated SC release, and, in CCH-stimulated LGACs, pull down of pIgR with Rab3DWT and colocalization of pIgR with endogenous Rab3D were decreased relative to resting cells, suggesting that the pIgR-Rab3D interaction may be modulated by secretagogues. These data suggest that the novel localization of pIgR to the regulated secretory pathway of LGACs and its secretion therefrom may be affected by its novel interaction with Rab3D.

Cholecystokinin activates pancreatic calcineurin-NFAT signaling in vitro and in vivo

Elevated endogenous cholecystokinin (CCK) release induced by protease inhibitors leads to pancreatic growth. This response has been shown to be mediated by the phosphatase calcineurin, but its downstream effectors are unknown. Here we examined activation of calcineurin-regulated nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFATs) in isolated acinar cells, as well as in an in vivo model of pancreatic growth. Western blotting of endogenous NFATs and confocal imaging of NFATc1-GFP in pancreatic acini showed that CCK dose-dependently stimulated NFAT translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus within 0.5-1 h. This shift in localization correlated with CCK-induced activation of NFAT-driven luciferase reporter and was similar to that induced by a calcium ionophore and constitutively active calcineurin. The effect of CCK was dependent on calcineurin, as these changes were blocked by immunosuppressants FK506 and CsA and by overexpression of the endogenous protein inhibitor CAIN. Parallel NFAT activation took place in vivo. Pancreatic growth was accompanied by an increase in nuclear NFATs and subsequent elevation in expression of NFAT-luciferase in the pancreas, but not in organs unresponsive to CCK. The changes also required calcineurin, as they were blocked by FK506. We conclude that CCK activates NFATs in a calcineurin-dependent manner, both in vitro and in vivo.

Thirty-one flavors of Drosophila rab proteins

Rab proteins are small GTPases that play important roles in transport of vesicle cargo and recruitment, association of motor and other proteins with vesicles, and docking and fusion of vesicles at defined locations. In vertebrates, >75 Rab genes have been identified, some of which have been intensively studied for their roles in endosome and synaptic vesicle trafficking. Recent studies of the functions of certain Rab proteins have revealed specific roles in mediating developmental signal transduction. We have begun a systematic genetic study of the 33 Rab genes in Drosophila. Most of the fly proteins are clearly related to specific vertebrate proteins. We report here the creation of a set of transgenic fly lines that allow spatially and temporally regulated expression of Drosophila Rab proteins. We generated fluorescent protein-tagged wild-type, dominant-negative, and constitutively active forms of 31 Drosophila Rab proteins. We describe Drosophila Rab expression patterns during embryogenesis, the subcellular localization of some Rab proteins, and comparisons of the localization of wild-type, dominant-negative, and constitutively active forms of selected Rab proteins. The high evolutionary conservation and low redundancy of Drosophila Rab proteins make these transgenic lines a useful tool kit for investigating Rab functions in vivo.

Constitutive GDP/GTP exchange and secretion-dependent GTP hydrolysis activity for Rab27 in platelets

We have previously demonstrated that Rab27 regulates dense granule secretion in platelets. Here, we analyzed the activation status of Rab27 using the thin layer chromatography method analyzing nucleotides bound to immunoprecipitated Rab27 and the pull-down method quantifying Rab27 bound to the GTP-Rab27-binding domain (synaptotagmin-like protein (Slp)-homology domain) of its specific effector, Slac2-b. We found that Rab27 was predominantly present in the GTP-bound form in unstimulated platelets due to constitutive GDP/GTP exchange activity. The GTP-bound Rab27 level drastically decreased due to enhanced GTP hydrolysis activity upon granule secretion. In permeabilized platelets, increase of Ca(2+) concentration induced dense granule secretion with concomitant decrease of GTP-Rab27, whereas in non-hydrolyzable GTP analogue GppNHp (beta-gamma-imidoguanosine 5'-triphosphate)-loaded permeabilized platelets, the GTP (GppNHp)-Rab27 level did not decrease upon the Ca(2+)-induced secretion. These data suggested that GTP hydrolysis of Rab27 was not necessary for inducing the secretion. Taken together, Rab27 is maintained in the active status in unstimulated platelets, which could function to keep dense granules in a preparative status for secretion.

Rab10 regulates membrane transport through early endosomes of polarized Madin-Darby canine kidney cells

Rab10, a protein originally isolated from Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) epithelial cells, belongs to a family of Rab proteins that includes Rab8 and Rab13. Although both Rab8 and Rab13 have been found to mediate polarized membrane transport, the function of Rab10 in mammalian cells has not yet been established. We have used quantitative confocal microscopy of polarized MDCK cells expressing GFP chimeras of wild-type and mutant forms of Rab10 to analyze the function of Rab10 in polarized cells. These studies demonstrate that Rab10 is specifically associated with the common endosomes of MDCK cells, accessible to endocytic probes internalized from either the apical or basolateral plasma membrane domains. Expression of mutant Rab10 defective for either GTP hydrolysis or GTP binding increased recycling from early compartments on the basolateral endocytic pathway without affecting recycling from later compartments or the apical recycling pathway. These results suggest that Rab10 mediates transport from basolateral sorting endosomes to common endosomes.

Molecular mechanisms of lacrimal acinar secretory vesicle exocytosis

The acinar epithelial cells of the lacrimal gland are responsible for the production, packaging and regulated exocytosis of tear proteins into ocular surface fluid. This review summarizes new findings on the mechanisms of exocytosis in these cells. Participating proteins are discussed within the context of different categories of trafficking effectors including targeting and specificity factors (rabs, SNAREs) and transport factors (microtubules, actin filaments and motor proteins). Recent information describing fundamental changes in basic exocytotic mechanisms in the NOD mouse, an animal model of Sjögren's syndrome, is presented.

Organellar proteomics: analysis of pancreatic zymogen granule membranes

The zymogen granule (ZG) is the specialized organelle in pancreatic acinar cells for digestive enzyme storage and regulated secretion and has been a model for studying secretory granule functions. In an initial effort to comprehensively understand the functions of this organelle, we conducted a proteomic study to identify proteins from highly purified ZG membranes. By combining two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and two-dimensional LC with tandem mass spectrometry, 101 proteins were identified from purified ZG membranes including 28 known ZG proteins and 73 previously unknown proteins, including SNAP29, Rab27B, Rab11A, Rab6, Rap1, and myosin Vc. Moreover several hypothetical proteins were identified that represent potential novel proteins. The ZG localization of nine of these proteins was further confirmed by immunocytochemistry. To distinguish intrinsic membrane proteins from soluble and peripheral membrane proteins, a quantitative proteomic strategy was used to measure the enrichment of intrinsic membrane proteins through the purification process. The iTRAQ ratios correlated well with known or Transmembrane Hidden Markov Model-predicted soluble or membrane proteins. By combining subcellular fractionation with high resolution separation and comprehensive identification of proteins, we have begun to elucidate zymogen granule functions through proteomic and subsequent functional analysis of its membrane components.

Rab3D regulates a novel vesicular trafficking pathway that is required for osteoclastic bone resorption

Rab3 proteins are a subfamily of GTPases, known to mediate membrane transport in eukaryotic cells and play a role in exocytosis. Our data indicate that Rab3D is the major Rab3 species expressed in osteoclasts. To investigate the role of Rab3D in osteoclast physiology we examined the skeletal architecture of Rab3D-deficient mice and found an osteosclerotic phenotype. Although basal osteoclast number in null animals is normal the total eroded surface is significantly reduced, suggesting that the resorptive defect is due to attenuated osteoclast activity. Consistent with this hypothesis, ultrastructural analysis reveals that Rab3D(-/-) osteoclasts exhibit irregular ruffled borders. Furthermore, while overexpression of wild-type, constitutively active, or prenylation-deficient Rab3D has no significant effects, overexpression of GTP-binding-deficient Rab3D impairs bone resorption in vitro. Finally, subcellular localization studies reveal that, unlike wild-type or constitutively active Rab3D, which associate with a nonendosomal/lysosomal subset of post-trans-Golgi network (TGN) vesicles, inactive Rab3D localizes to the TGN and inhibits biogenesis of Rab3D-bearing vesicles. Collectively, our data suggest that Rab3D modulates a post-TGN trafficking step that is required for osteoclastic bone resorption.

Male NOD mouse external lacrimal glands exhibit profound changes in the exocytotic pathway early in postnatal development

The lacrimal glands of male NOD mice exhibit many of the features of the human lacrimal gland in patients afflicted with the autoimmune disease, Sjögren's syndrome, including loss of secretory functions and lymphocytic infiltration into the lacrimal gland. To elucidate the early changes in the secretory pathway associated with development of Sjögren's syndrome, we investigated the organization of the exocytotic pathway in lacrimal glands of age-matched male BALB/c and NOD mice. Cryosections from lacrimal glands from 1 and 4 month male BALB/c and NOD mice were processed for confocal fluorescence and electron microscopic evaluation of different participants in exocytosis. No changes in apical actin filaments were noted in glands from NOD mice, but these glands exhibited thickening of basolateral actin relative to that seen in the BALB/c mice. Rab3D immunofluorescence associated with mature secretory vesicles was distributed abundantly in a continuous vesicular network concentrated beneath the apical plasma membrane in glands from 1 and 4 month BALB/c mice. In glands from 1 month NOD mice, rab3D immunofluorescence exhibited marked discontinuity and irregularity in the vesicular labeling pattern. While this change was also detected in glands from 4 month NOD mice, many of these glands exhibited an additional extension of rab3D labeling through the cell to the basolateral membrane. Electron microscopic analysis confirmed the formation of irregularly shaped, unusually large secretory vesicles in lacrimal glands from NOD mice. Quantitation of multiple secretory vesicles from electron micrographs revealed a significant (p< or =0.05) increase in the percentage of secretory vesicles incorporated into multivesicular aggregates in lacrimal glands from 1 and 4 month NOD mice compared to BALB/c mice. The M3 muscarinic receptor, a key signaling effector of exocytosis, was redistributed away from its normally basolateral locale in glands from BALB/c mice, with concomitant enrichment in intracellular aggregates in glands from NOD mice. These findings show that lacrimal glands in NOD mice as young as 1 month contain aberrant secretory vesicles with altered effector composition that undergo premature cytoplasmic fusion, and that changes in the distribution of the M3 muscarinic receptor occur within the same time frame.

Expression of pro-Muclin in pancreatic AR42J cells induces functional regulated secretory granules

It is not clear how protein cargo is sorted to and retained in forming regulated secretory granules (RSG). Here, the sulfated mucin-type glycoprotein pro-Muclin was tested for its ability to induce RSG in the poorly differentiated rat pancreatic cell line AR42J. AR42J cells express RSG content proteins, but they fail to make granules. Adenovirus-pro-Muclin-infected AR42J cells store amylase, accumulate RSG, and respond to hormonal stimulation by secreting the stored protein. Expression of pro-Muclin combined with the inducing effect of dexamethasone resulted in a significant enhancement of the efficiency of regulated secretion. The effect of pro-Muclin was a strong decrease in constitutive secretion compared with dexamethasone-induction alone. A pro-Muclin construct missing the cytosolic tail domain was less effective at improving the efficiency of regulated secretion compared with the full-length construct. Increased expression of cargo (using adenovirus amylase) also modestly enhanced regulated secretion, indicating that part of pro-Muclin's effect may be due to increased expression of cargo protein. Overall, the data show that pro-Muclin acts as a sorting receptor that can induce RSG, and that its cytosolic tail is important in this process.

Rab27b localizes to zymogen granules and regulates pancreatic acinar exocytosis

To understand the function of pancreatic zymogen granules, we performed a proteomics analysis to identify ZG membrane components. Here we report the identification of Rab27b through this proteomics study and validate its role in granule function. MALDI-MS peptide mass fingerprint was matched to rat Rab27b with 43% sequence coverage, and the identification was also confirmed by tandem mass spectrometry. The localization of Rab27b on ZGs was confirmed by Western blotting and immunocytochemistry. To examine the function of Rab27b in acinar secretion, we overexpressed wild type and mutant Rab27b protein in pancreatic acini using recombinant adenoviruses. Wild type Rab27b had no effect on amylase secretion, while Rab27b Q78L enhanced, and Rab27b N133I inhibited, CCK-induced amylase release by 92+/-13% and 53+/-8%, respectively. This enhancement and inhibition occurred at all points on the CCK dose-response curve and over a 30min time course. These results demonstrate that Rab27b is present on ZGs and plays an important role in regulating acinar exocytosis.