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Mouti MA, Deng S, Pook M, Malzahn J, Rendek A, Militi S, Nibhani R, Soonawalla Z, Oppermann U, Hwang CI, Pauklin S. KMT2A associates with PHF5A-PHF14-HMG20A-RAI1 subcomplex in pancreatic cancer stem cells and epigenetically regulates their characteristics. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5685. [PMID: 37709746 PMCID: PMC10502114 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41297-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC), one of the most aggressive and life-threatening human malignancies, is known for its resistance to cytotoxic therapies. This is increasingly ascribed to the subpopulation of undifferentiated cells, known as pancreatic cancer stem cells (PCSCs), which display greater evolutionary fitness than other tumor cells to evade the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy. PCSCs are crucial for tumor relapse as they possess 'stem cell-like' features that are characterized by self-renewal and differentiation. However, the molecular mechanisms that maintain the unique characteristics of PCSCs are poorly understood. Here, we identify the histone methyltransferase KMT2A as a physical binding partner of an RNA polymerase-associated PHF5A-PHF14-HMG20A-RAI1 protein subcomplex and an epigenetic regulator of PCSC properties and functions. Targeting the protein subcomplex in PCSCs with a KMT2A-WDR5 inhibitor attenuates their self-renewal capacity, cell viability, and in vivo tumorigenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai Abdel Mouti
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology, and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Siwei Deng
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology, and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Martin Pook
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology, and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jessica Malzahn
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology, and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Aniko Rendek
- Department of Histopathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Stefania Militi
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology, and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Reshma Nibhani
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology, and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Zahir Soonawalla
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Oxford University Hospitals NHS, Oxford, UK
| | - Udo Oppermann
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology, and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Chang-Il Hwang
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Davis, Davis, USA
| | - Siim Pauklin
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology, and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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Pancreatic cancer cells spectral library by DIA-MS and the phenotype analysis of gemcitabine sensitivity. Sci Data 2022; 9:283. [PMID: 35680938 PMCID: PMC9184632 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-022-01407-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Data-independent acquisition (DIA)-mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteome strategies are increasingly used for detecting and validating protein biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Here, based on an in-depth proteome analysis of seven pancreatic cancer cell lines, we built a pancreas-specific mass spectrum library containing 10633 protein groups and 184551 peptides. The proteome difference among the seven pancreatic cancer cells was significant, especially for the divergent expression of proteins related to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The spectra library was applied to explore the proteome difference of PANC-1 and BxPC-3 cells upon gemcitabine (GEM) treatment, and potential GEM targets were identified. The cytotoxicity test and GEM target analysis found that HPAC, CFPAC-1, and BxPC-3 were sensitive to GEM treatment, whereas PANC-1 and AsPC-1 were resistant. Finally, we found EMT was significant for CFPAC-1, AsPC-1, and PANC-1 cells, whereas BxPC-3 and HPAC cells showed more typical epithelial features. This library provides a valuable resource for in-depth proteomic analysis on pancreatic cancer cell lines, meeting the urgent demands for cell line-dependent protein differences and targeted drug analysis. Measurement(s) | protein expression profiling | Technology Type(s) | Mass Spectrometry |
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Pilli VS, Datta A, Dorsey A, Liu B, Majumder R. Modulation of protein S and growth arrest specific 6 protein signaling inhibits pancreatic cancer cell survival and proliferation. Oncol Rep 2020; 44:1322-1332. [PMID: 32945517 PMCID: PMC7448444 DOI: 10.3892/or.2020.7689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Thrombotic complications and hypercoagulopathies are commonly associated with the progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Although the mechanistic link between the two phenomena is uncertain, there is evidently an increase in procoagulant proteins and a decrease in anticoagulants in PDAC patients. For example, the anticoagulant protein S (PS) is decreased during the progression of PDAC, a condition that possibly contributes to the hypercoagulopathies. PS is also an important signaling molecule that binds a family of tyrosine kinase receptors known as TAM (Tyro3, Axl and Mer) receptors; TAM receptors are often upregulated in different cancers. Growth Arrest Specific 6 or GAS6 protein, a homolog of PS, is also a TAM receptor family ligand. The downstream signaling pathways triggered by this ligand-receptor interaction perform diverse functions, such as cell survival, proliferation, efferocytosis, and apoptosis. Targeting the TAM receptors to treat cancer has had limited success; side effects are a significant obstacle due to the widespread numerous functions of TAM receptors. In the present study, it was revealed that PS-TAM interaction was pro-apoptotic, whereas GAS6-mediated TAM signaling promoted proliferation and survival in select PDAC cell lines. Furthermore, by regulating the balance between these two signaling pathways (by overexpressing PS or knocking down GAS6), the proliferative potential of the cells was decreased. Both long-term and short-term effects of natural PS overexpression were comparable to the treatment of the cells with the drug UNC2025, which inhibits the Mer-receptor. The present study lays the foundation for investigation of PS as a therapeutic agent to control cancer progression and to concurrently arrest thrombotic events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijaya S Pilli
- Department of Biochemistry, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Arani Datta
- Department of Biochemistry, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Adrianne Dorsey
- Department of Biochemistry, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Bo Liu
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Rinku Majumder
- Department of Biochemistry, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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4
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Abstract
The pancreas produces enzymes with a digestive function and hormones with a metabolic function, which are produced by distinct cell types of acini and islets, respectively. Within these units, secretory cells coordinate their functioning by exchanging information via signals that flow in the intercellular spaces and are generated either at distance (several neural and hormonal inputs) or nearby the pancreatic cells themselves (inputs mediated by membrane ionic-specific channels and by ionic- and metabolite-permeant pannexin channels and connexin "hemichannels"). Pancreatic secretory cells further interact via the extracellular matrix of the pancreas (inputs mediated by integrins) and directly with neighboring cells, by mechanisms that do not require extracellular mediators (inputs mediated by gap and tight junction channels). Here, we review the expression and function of the connexins and pannexins that are expressed by the main secretory cells of the exocrine and endocrine pancreatic cells. Available data show that the patterns of expression of these proteins differ in acini and islets, supporting distinct functions in the physiological secretion of pancreatic enzymes and hormones. Circumstantial evidence further suggests that alterations in the signaling provided by these proteins are involved in pancreatic diseases.
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Forster T, Rausch V, Zhang Y, Isayev O, Heilmann K, Schoensiegel F, Liu L, Nessling M, Richter K, Labsch S, Nwaeburu CC, Mattern J, Gladkich J, Giese N, Werner J, Schemmer P, Gross W, Gebhard MM, Gerhauser C, Schaefer M, Herr I. Sulforaphane counteracts aggressiveness of pancreatic cancer driven by dysregulated Cx43-mediated gap junctional intercellular communication. Oncotarget 2015; 5:1621-34. [PMID: 24742583 PMCID: PMC4039235 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.1764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The extreme aggressiveness of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) has been
associated with blocked gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) and the
presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). We examined whether disturbed GJIC is
responsible for a CSC phenotype in established and primary cancer cells and patient
tissue of PDA using interdisciplinary methods based in physiology, cell and molecular
biology, histology and epigenetics. Flux of fluorescent dyes and gemcitabine through
gap junctions (GJs) was intact in less aggressive cells but not in highly malignant
cells with morphological dysfunctional GJs. Among several connexins, only Cx43 was
expressed on the cell surface of less aggressive and GJIC-competent cells, whereas
Cx43 surface expression was absent in highly malignant, E-cadherin-negative and
GJIC-incompetent cells. The levels of total Cx43 protein and Cx43 phosphorylated at
Ser368 and Ser279/282 were high in normal tissue but low to absent in malignant
tissue. si-RNA-mediated inhibition of Cx43 expression in GJIC-competent cells
prevented GJIC and induced colony formation and the expression of stem cell-related
factors. The bioactive substance sulforaphane enhanced Cx43 and E-cadherin levels,
inhibited the CSC markers c-Met and CD133, improved the functional morphology of GJs
and enhanced GJIC. Sulforaphane altered the phosphorylation of several kinases and
their substrates and inhibition of GSK3, JNK and PKC prevented sulforaphane-induced
CX43 expression. The sulforaphane-mediated expression of Cx43 was not correlated with
enhanced Cx43 RNA expression, acetylated histone binding and Cx43 promoter
de-methylation, suggesting that posttranslational phosphorylation is the dominant
regulatory mechanism. Together, the absence of Cx43 prevents GJIC and enhances
aggressiveness, whereas sulforaphane counteracts this process, and our findings
highlight dietary co-treatment as a viable treatment option for PDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Forster
- General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Trosko JE. Human adult stem cells as the target cells for the initiation of carcinogenesis and for the generation of "cancer stem cells". Int J Stem Cells 2014; 1:8-26. [PMID: 24855504 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc.2008.1.1.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/01/2008] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The inference to stem cells has been found in ancient myths and the concept of stem cells has existed in the fields of plant biology, developmental biology and embryology for decades. In the field of cancer research, the stem cell theory was one of the earliest hypotheses on the origin of a cancer from a single cell. However, an opposing hypothesis had it that an adult differentiated somatic cell could "de-differentiate" to become a cancer cell. Only within the last decade, via the "cloning" of Dolly, the sheep, did the field of stem cell biology really trigger an exciting revolution in biological research. The isolation of human embryonic stem cells has created a true revolution in the life sciences that has led to the hope that these human stem cells could lead to (a) basic science understanding of gene regulation during differentiation and development; (b) stem cell therapy; (c) gene therapy via stem cells; (d) the use of stem cells for drug discovery; (e) screening for toxic effects of chemicals; and (f) understand the aging and diseases of aging processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- James E Trosko
- Department of Pediatrics/Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, USA
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Bhandari DR, Seo KW, Sun B, Seo MS, Kim HS, Seo YJ, Marcin J, Forraz N, Roy HL, Larry D, Colin M, Kang KS. The simplest method for in vitro β-cell production from human adult stem cells. Differentiation 2011; 82:144-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2011.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2011] [Revised: 05/10/2011] [Accepted: 06/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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8
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Kang KS, Trosko JE. Stem cells in toxicology: fundamental biology and practical considerations. Toxicol Sci 2010; 120 Suppl 1:S269-89. [PMID: 21163910 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfq370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This "Commentary" has examined the use of human stem cells for detection of toxicities of physical, chemical, and biological toxins/toxicants in response to the challenge posed by the NRC Report, "Toxicity Testing in the 21st Century: A vision and Strategy." Before widespread application of the use of human embryonic, pluripotent, "iPS," or adult stem cells be considered, the basic characterization of stem cell biology should be undertaken. Because no in vitro system can mimic all factors that influence cells in vivo (individual genetic, gender, developmental, immunological and diurnal states; niche conditions; complex intercellular interactions between stem, progenitor, terminal differentiated cells, and the signaling from extracellular matrices, oxygen tensions, etc.), attempts should be made to use both embryonic and adult stem cells, grown in three dimension under "niche-like" conditions. Because many toxins and toxicants work by "epigenetic" mechanisms and that epigenetic mechanisms play important roles in regulating gene expression and in the pathogenesis of many human diseases, epigenetic toxicity must be incorporated in toxicity testing. Because modulation of gap junctional intercellular communication by epigenetic agents plays a major role in homeostatic regulation of both stem and progenitor cells in normal tissues, the modulation of this biological process by both endogenous and endogenous chemicals should be incorporated as an end point to monitor for potential toxicities or chemo-preventive attributes. In addition, modulation of quantity, as well as the quality, of stem cells should be considered as potential source of a chemical's toxic potential in affecting any stem cell-based pathology, such as cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung-Sun Kang
- Adult Stem Cell Research Center, Laboratory for Stem Cell and Tumor Biology, Department of Veterinary Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Sillim-Dong, Seoul 151-742, Korea
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9
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The influence of pancreas-derived stem cells on scaffold based skin regeneration. Biomaterials 2009; 30:789-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2008.10.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2008] [Accepted: 10/16/2008] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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10
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Wong RCB, Pera MF, Pébay A. Role of gap junctions in embryonic and somatic stem cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 4:283-92. [PMID: 18704771 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-008-9038-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Stem cells provide an invaluable tool to develop cell replacement therapies for a range of serious disorders caused by cell damage or degeneration. Much research in the field is focused on the identification of signals that either maintain stem cell pluripotency or direct their differentiation. Understanding how stem cells communicate within their microenvironment is essential to achieve their therapeutic potentials. Gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) has been described in embryonic stem cells (ES cells) and various somatic stem cells. GJIC has been implicated in regulating different biological events in many stem cells, including cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. This review summarizes the current understanding of gap junctions in both embryonic and somatic stem cells, as well as their potential role in growth control and cellular differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond C B Wong
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA.
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11
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The regulation of the gap junction of human mesenchymal stem cells through the internalization of quantum dots. Biomaterials 2009; 30:1937-46. [PMID: 19135246 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2008.12.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2008] [Accepted: 12/16/2008] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The delivery mechanism of CdSe/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) into cells was previously found to critically determine the biocompatibility of QDs to human adult mesenchymal stem cells, but the associated mechanism remained unknown. The present study tried to establish a link between the above phenomenon and the change in gap junction upon QD internalization. By comparing Pep-1- and PolyFect-mediated QD internalizations, the connexin 43 (Cx43)-mediated gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) of human adipose-derived adult stem cells was investigated in monolayer and in three-dimensional (3D) culture (alginate hollow spheres). The latter system offered cells more mobility, which was more similar as in vivo. The results showed that Pep-1-coated QDs, which escaped from the endo-/lysosome degradation, could activate the F-actin assembly and the ERK-dependent phosphorylation of Cx43. The consequence was a reduction in Cx43-mediated GJIC. When the cells were grown in high density 3D alginate hollow spheres instead of in monolayer, the decrease of GJIC caused by the QD internalization was restored. These results indicated that the adaptability in QDs-mediated regulation of GJIC with different delivery coatings depended on the culture systems. The study also suggested that the regulation of gap junction may play a key role in QD cytotoxicity.
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12
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Farook VS, Alkhalaf M, Karam SM. Establishment of a gastric epithelial progenitor cell line from a transgenic mouse expressing the simian virus 40 large T antigen gene in the parietal cell lineage. Cell Prolif 2008; 41:310-20. [PMID: 18336475 PMCID: PMC6495901 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2184.2008.00522.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this study the gastric mucosa of transgenic mice expressing the simian virus 40 large T antigen gene in the parietal cell lineage is used to establish and characterize a new epithelial progenitor cell line. In these mice, proliferation and amplification of preparietal cells preclude their maturation into acid-secreting parietal cells leading to achlorohydria, hyperplasia, dysplasia and eventually gastric adenocarcinoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS Enzymatically dispersed gastric epithelial cells were cultured, cloned and screened using immunohistochemical methods, for expression of a variety of biomarkers of differentiated pit, parietal, enteroendocrine and neck/zymogenic cells. RESULTS A biomarker-deficient cell line whose ultrastructural features resembled those of mouse gastric epithelial progenitor cells was established. Treatment with either hydrocortisone or oestrogen significantly enhanced proliferation of these cells, whereas retinoic acid inhibited their growth. No change in differentiation was detected with any of these treatments; however, when these cells were injected subcutaneously into nude mice, they proliferated to form tumours and undergo partial differentiation towards parietal cell lineage. CONCLUSION This mouse gastric epithelial progenitor cell line could be useful as an in vitro model to study growth properties, proliferation and differentiation of a subpopulation of gastric epithelial progenitor cells and also to study gastric carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- V S Farook
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Safat, Kuwait
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Tai MH, Upham BL, Olson LK, Tsao MS, Reed DN, Trosko JE. Cigarette smoke components inhibited intercellular communication and differentiation in human pancreatic ductal epithelial cells. Int J Cancer 2007; 120:1855-62. [PMID: 17266035 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.22530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Smoking is a well-documented risk factor for the development of pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Although the most abundant polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in cigarette smoke are methylated anthracenes and phenanthrenes, the epigenetic toxicity of these compounds has not been extensively studied. We previously showed that methylanthracenes, which possess a bay-like structure, affect epigenetic events such as an induced release of arachidonic acid, inhibition of gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) and induction of mitogen-activated protein kinases in a pluripotent rat liver epithelial stem cell line. Anthracenes with no bay-like structures were inactive. These biological effects are all molecular events associated with the promotional phase of cancer. A human immortalized, nontumorigenic pancreatic ductal epithelial cell line, H6c7, was examined to study the epigenetic toxicity of PAHs related to pancreatic cancer by using scrape-loading dye transfer, immunostaining, RT-PCR and telomerase assay methods. H6c7 cells were GJIC-incompetent and exhibited high telomerase activity when grown in growth factor and hormone-supplemented medium. In the presence of the cAMP elevating drugs (forskolin and IBMX) the cells became GJIC competent and expressed connexins. Telomerase activity was also decreased by cAMP elevating drug treatment. After induction of cAMP, 1-methylanthracene with bay-like structures inhibited GJIC, whereas the 2-methylanthracene lacking a bay-like structure had no effect on GJIC. Telomerase activity remained high in 1-methylanthracene treatment but not with 2-methylanthracene. These results indicate that a prominent component of cigarette smoke, namely methylanthracenes with distinct structural configurations, could be a potential etiological agent contributing to the epigenetic events of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Hui Tai
- Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
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14
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Sun B, Roh KH, Lee SR, Lee YS, Kang KS. Induction of human umbilical cord blood-derived stem cells with embryonic stem cell phenotypes into insulin producing islet-like structure. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2007; 354:919-23. [PMID: 17274951 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2007.01.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2006] [Accepted: 01/13/2007] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Success in islet-transplantation-based therapies for type I diabetes, coupled with a worldwide shortage of transplant-ready islets, has motivated efforts to develop renewable sources of islet-replacement tissue. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) have been successfully induced into insulin producing islet-like structure in several studies. However, the source of the ESCs has presented ethical and technical concerns. Here, we isolated a population of stem cells from human cord blood (UCB), which expressed embryo stage specific maker, SSEA-4, and the multi-potential stem cell marker, Oct4. Subsequently, we successfully induced them into insulin-producing islet-like structures, which co-express insulin and C-peptide. These findings might have a significant potential to advance human UCB derived stem-cell-based therapeutics for diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Sun
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tumor Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
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15
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Hirst-Jensen BJ, Sahoo P, Kieken F, Delmar M, Sorgen PL. Characterization of the pH-dependent interaction between the gap junction protein connexin43 carboxyl terminus and cytoplasmic loop domains. J Biol Chem 2006; 282:5801-13. [PMID: 17178730 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m605233200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
A prevailing view regarding the regulation of connexin43 (Cx43) gap junction channels is that, upon intracellular acidification, the carboxyl-terminal domain (Cx43CT) moves toward the channel opening to interact with specific residues acting as a receptor site. Previous studies have demonstrated a direct, pH-dependent interaction between the Cx43CT and a Cx43 cytoplasmic loop (Cx43CL) peptide. This interaction was dependent on alpha-helical formation for the peptide in response to acidification; more recent studies have shown that acidification also induces Cx43CT dimerization. Whether Cx43CT dimerization is an important structural component in Cx43 regulation remains to be determined. Here we used an assortment of complimentary biophysical techniques to characterize the binding of Cx43CT or its mutants to itself and/or to a more native-like Cx43CL construct (Cx43CL(100-155), residues 100-155). Our studies expand the observation that specific Cx43CT domains are important for dimerization. We further show that properties of the Cx43CL(100-155) are different from those of the Cx43CL peptide; solvent acidification leads to Cx43CL(100-155) oligomerization and a change in the stoichiometry and binding affinity for the Cx43CT. Homo-Cx43CT and Cx43CL(100-155) oligomerization as well as the Cx43CT/Cx43CL(100-155) interaction can occur under in vivo conditions; moreover, we show that Cx43CL(100-155) strongly affects resonance peaks corresponding to Cx43CT residues Arg-376-Asp-379 and Asn-343-Lys-346. Overall, our data indicate that many of the sites involved in Cx43CT dimerization are also involved in the Cx43CT/Cx43CL interaction; we further propose that chemically induced Cx43CT and Cx43CL oligomerization is important for the interaction between these cytoplasmic domains, which leads to chemically induced gating of Cx43 channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany J Hirst-Jensen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, USA
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Holland MS, Holland RE. The cellular perspective on mammary gland development: stem/progenitor cells and beyond. J Dairy Sci 2006; 88 Suppl 1:E1-8. [PMID: 15876573 DOI: 10.3168/jds.s0022-0302(05)73132-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Study of the mammary gland at the stem cell level is necessary for understanding mammary gland development. Knowledge of mammary gland development and growth is the first step toward formulating strategies to improve milk production. The success of these strategies requires an understanding of the dynamics of adult stem cells and their progeny in the development of the bovine mammary gland. The stem cell lineage pathway begins with adult stem cells and ends with the production of terminally differentiated cells. The progression of adult stem cells along the mammary gland stem cell lineage pathway requires the coordination of many events. One important event in this process is cell differentiation. This differentiation process evolves with a gradient appearance of cell organelles progressing from stem cells to terminally differentiated cells. To dissect differentiation, mechanisms that regulate stem cells to differentiate toward a particular cell fate must be identified. Ultrastructural characteristics assist in distinguishing cells in various stages of differentiation in the mammary gland cell lineage pathway. Cells in the lineage pathway can become either epithelial cells or myoepithelial cells. Epithelial cells function in the production and secretion of milk, whereas myoepithelial cells assist epithelial cells in milk secretion. This review focuses on current concepts regarding adult stem cells and the recent progress on bovine mammary gland stem/progenitor cell development and differentiation. Multistep strategies that incorporate manipulation of the mechanisms influencing lineage choices in the mammary gland will produce beneficial effects on mammary gland development and milk production.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Holland
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, 50011, USA.
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Trosko JE, Chang CC, Upham BL, Tai MH. The role of human adult stem cells and cell-cell communication in cancer chemoprevention and chemotherapy strategies. Mutat Res 2005; 591:187-97. [PMID: 16084532 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrfmmm.2005.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2004] [Revised: 12/29/2004] [Accepted: 01/12/2005] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Since carcinogenesis is a multi-stage, multi-mechanism process, involving mutagenic, cell death and epigenetic mechanisms, during the "initiation/promotion/and progression" phases, chemoprevention must be based on understanding the underlying mechanism(s) of each phase, In principle, prevention of each of these phases could reduce the risk to cancer. However, because reducing the mutagenic/initiation phase to a zero level is impossible, the most efficacious intervention would be at the promotion phase that requires a sustained exposure to promoting conditions/agents. In addition, assuming the "target" cells for carcinogenesis are the pluri-potent stem cells and their early progenitor or transit cells, chemoprevention strategies for inhibiting the promotion of these two types of pre-malignant "initiated" cells will require different kinds of agents. A hypothesis will be proposed that involves adult stem cells, which express Oct-4 gene and lack gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC-) or the early progenitor cells which express GJIC+ and are partially-differentiated, if initiated, will be promoted by agents that either inhibit secreted negative growth regulators or by inhibitors of GJIC. Consequently, anti-tumor promoting chemopreventing agents to each of these two types of initiated cells must have different mechanisms of action and work on different target cells. Assuming stem cells are target cells for carcinogenesis, an alternative method of chemoprevention would be to reduce the stem cell pool. Many classes of anti-tumor promoter chemopreventive agents, such as green tea components, resveratrol, caffeic acid phenethylene ester, either up-regulate GJIC in stem cells or prevent the down regulation of GJIC by tumor promoters in early progenitor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- James E Trosko
- 246 National Food Safety Toxicology Center, Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
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Lahlou H, Fanjul M, Pradayrol L, Susini C, Pyronnet S. Restoration of functional gap junctions through internal ribosome entry site-dependent synthesis of endogenous connexins in density-inhibited cancer cells. Mol Cell Biol 2005; 25:4034-45. [PMID: 15870276 PMCID: PMC1087721 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.25.10.4034-4045.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions are composed of connexins and are critical for the maintenance of the differentiated state. Consistently, connexin expression is impaired in most cancer cells, and forced expression of connexins following cDNA transfection reverses the tumor phenotype. We have found that the restoration of density inhibition of human pancreatic cancer cells by the antiproliferative somatostatin receptor 2 (sst2) is due to overexpression of endogenous connexins Cx26 and Cx43 and consequent formation of functional gap junctions. Immunoblotting along with protein metabolic labeling and mRNA monitoring revealed that connexin expression is enhanced at the level of translation but is not sensitive to the inhibition of cap-dependent translation initiation. Furthermore, we identified a new internal ribosome entry site (IRES) in the Cx26 mRNA. The activity of Cx26 IRES and that of the previously described Cx43 IRES are enhanced in density-inhibited cells. These data indicate that the restoration of functional gap junctions is likely a critical event in the antiproliferative action of the sst2 receptor. We further suggest that the existence of IRESes in connexin mRNAs permits connexin expression in density-inhibited or differentiated cells, where cap-dependent translation is generally reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hicham Lahlou
- INSERM U531, Institut Louis Bugnard, CHU Rangueil, TSA 50032, 31059 Toulouse cedex 9, France
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Trosko JE, Chang CC, Upham BL, Tai MH. Low-dose ionizing radiation: induction of differential intracellular signalling possibly affecting intercellular communication. RADIATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL BIOPHYSICS 2005; 44:3-9. [PMID: 15821925 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-005-0269-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2004] [Accepted: 11/23/2004] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Given the complexity of the carcinogenic process and the lack of any mechanistic understanding of how ionizing radiation at low-level exposures affects the multistage, multimechanism processes of carcinogenesis, it is imperative that concepts and paradigms be reexamined when extrapolating from high dose to low dose. Any health effect directly linked to low-dose radiation exposure must have molecular/biochemical and biological bases. On the other hand, demonstrating some molecular/biochemical or cellular effect, using surrogate systems for the human being, does not necessarily imply a corresponding health effect. Given the general acceptance of an extrapolated LNT model, our current understanding of carcinogenesis cries out for a resolution of a real problem. How can a low-level acute, or even a chronic, exposure of ionizing radiation bring about all the different mechanisms (mutagenic, cytotoxic, and epigenetic) and genotypic/phenotypic changes needed to convert normal cells to an invasive, malignant cell, given all the protective, repair, and suppressive systems known to exist in the human body? Until recently, the prevailing paradigm that ionizing radiation brings about cancer primarily by DNA damage and its conversion to gene and chromosomal mutations, drove our interpretation of radiation carcinogenesis. Today, our knowledge includes the facts both that epigenetic events play a major role in carcinogenesis and that low-dose radiation can also induce epigenetic events in and between cells in tissues. This challenges any simple extrapolation of the LNT model. Although a recent delineation of "hallmarks" of the cancer process has helped to focus on how ionizing radiation might contribute to the induction of cancers, several other hallmarks, previously ignored--namely, the stem cells in tissues as targets for carcinogenesis and the role of cell-cell communication processes in modulating the radiation effects on the target cell--must be considered, particularly for the adaptive response, bystander effects, and genomic instability phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- James E Trosko
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
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Wong RCB, Pébay A, Nguyen LTV, Koh KLL, Pera MF. Presence of functional gap junctions in human embryonic stem cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 22:883-9. [PMID: 15536180 DOI: 10.1634/stemcells.22-6-883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions are intercellular channels that allow both chemical and electrical signaling between two adjacent cells. Gap junction intercellular communication has been implicated in the regulation of various cellular processes, including cell migration, cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and cell apoptosis. This study aimed to determine the presence and functionality of gap junctions in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). Using reverse transcription--polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry, we demonstrate that human ES cells express two gap junction proteins, connexin 43 and connexin 45. Western blot analysis revealed the presence of three phosphorylated forms (nonphosphorylated [NP], P1, and P2) of connexin 43, NP being prominent. Moreover, scrape loading/dye transfer assay indicates that human ES cells are coupled through functional gap junctions that are inhibited by protein kinase C activation and extracellular signal-regulated kinase inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond C B Wong
- Monash Institute of Reproduction and Development, Monash University, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
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Arnold JM, Phipps MW, Chen J, Phipps J. Cellular sublocalization of Cx43 and the establishment of functional coupling in IMR-32 neuroblastoma cells. Mol Carcinog 2005; 42:159-69. [PMID: 15605363 DOI: 10.1002/mc.20072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common solid pediatric tumor. IMR-32 cells are a highly malignant human NB cell line with uncontrolled proliferation but with the potential to be differentiated under specific conditions. Preliminary research indicated that connexin 43 (Cx43), the most widespread of the Cx family, is aberrantly located in IMR-32 cells, which renders these cells incapable of gap junction (GJ) intercellular communication. Functioning GJ intercellular communication has been strongly associated with growth control and a decrease in tumorigenicity. 8-br-cAMP, known to initiate the differentiation process in cancer cells, was used to examine changes in Cx43 localization and expression via immunocytochemistry, Western blot analysis, and flow cytometry. Exposure of IMR-32 cells to 8-br-cAMP decreased cell proliferation, restored the abnormally localized Cx43 from around the nucleus to the cell membrane, increased de novo Cx43 protein expression, and appeared to phosphorylate Cx43 on serine (Ser) 255 and Ser262. Forskolin, an activator of cAMP dependent protein kinase (PKA), produced identical results to 8-br-cAMP demonstrating the effect that was not unique to a cAMP analog. The use of a PKA inhibitor further confirmed the specificity of 8-br-cAMP and forskolin's effect on Cx43. The cellular relocation of Cx43, combined with the increased protein expression, established first ever GJ intercellular communication between IMR-32 cells as revealed by scrape loading. These results suggest that the GJ-mediated return of growth control, as a prerequisite for further differentiation, offers a new therapeutic avenue in the treatment of NB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Arnold
- SIMS, PharmaGap, National Research Council of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Fridriksdottir AJR, Villadsen R, Gudjonsson T, Petersen OW. Maintenance of cell type diversification in the human breast. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2005; 10:61-74. [PMID: 15886887 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-005-2541-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent genome-wide expression analysis of breast cancer has brought new life to the classical idea of tumors as caricatures of the process of tissue renewal as envisioned by Pierce and Speers (Cancer Res 1988;48:1996-2004) more than a decade ago. The search for a cancer founder cell or different cancer founder cells is only possible if a hierarchy of differentiation has been established for the particular tissue in question. In the human breast, the luminal epithelial and myoepithelial lineages have been characterized extensively in situ by increasingly elaborate panel of markers, and methods to isolate, culture, and clone different subpopulations have improved dramatically. Comparisons have been made with the mouse mammary gland in physiological three-dimensional culture assays of morphogenesis, and the plasticity of breast epithelial cells has been challenged by immortalization and transformation. As a result of these efforts, several candidate progenitor cells have been proposed independently of each other, and some of their features have been compared. This research has all been done to better understand breast tissue homeostasis, cell-type diversification in general and breast cancer evolution in particular. The present review discusses the current approaches to address these issues and the measures taken to unravel and maintain cell type diversification for further investigation.
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Linning KD, Tai MH, Madhukar BV, Chang CC, Reed DN, Ferber S, Trosko JE, Olson LK. Redox-mediated enrichment of self-renewing adult human pancreatic cells that possess endocrine differentiation potential. Pancreas 2004; 29:e64-76. [PMID: 15367896 DOI: 10.1097/00006676-200410000-00015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The limited availability of transplantable human islets has stimulated the development of methods needed to isolate adult pancreatic stem/progenitor cells capable of self-renewal and endocrine differentiation. The objective of this study was to determine whether modulation of intracellular redox state with N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) would allow for the propagation of pancreatic stem/progenitor cells from adult human pancreatic tissue. METHODS Cells were propagated from human pancreatic tissue using a serum-free, low-calcium medium supplemented with NAC and tested for their ability to differentiate when cultured under different growth conditions. RESULTS Human pancreatic cell (HPC) cultures coexpressed alpha-amylase, albumin, vimentin, and nestin. The HPC cultures, however, did not express other genes associated with differentiated pancreatic exocrine, duct, or endocrine cells. A number of transcription factors involved in endocrine cell development including Beta 2, Islet-1, Nkx6.1, Pax4, and Pax6 were expressed at variable levels in HPC cultures. In contrast, pancreatic duodenal homeobox factor 1 (Pdx-1) expression was extremely low and at times undetectable. Overexpression of Pdx-1 in HPC cultures stimulated somatostatin, glucagon, and carbonic anhydrase expression but had no effect on insulin gene expression. HPC cultures could form 3-dimensional islet-like cell aggregates, and this was associated with expression of somatostatin and glucagon but not insulin. Cultivation of HPCs in a differentiation medium supplemented with nicotinamide, exendin-4, and/or LY294002, an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase, stimulated expression of insulin mRNA and protein. CONCLUSION These data support the use of intracellular redox modulation for the enrichment of pancreatic stem/progenitor cells capable of self-renewal and endocrine differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina D Linning
- Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, USA
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Holland MS, Tai MH, Trosko JE, Griffin LD, Stasko JA, Cheville NC, Holland RE. Isolation and differentiation of bovine mammary gland progenitor cell populations. Am J Vet Res 2003; 64:396-403. [PMID: 12693527 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.2003.64.396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To isolate bovine mammary gland cells with stem cell characteristics. SAMPLE POPULATION Monolayers of bovine mammary gland cells. PROCEDURE Mammary gland cell populations were separated by use of selected media supplements. Phenotypic characteristics were examined via light and transmission electron microscopy. Cellular expression of casein and connexin 43 was identified immunohistochemically. A scrape-loading and dye transfer assay was used to examine the mammary gland cell populations for homogenous gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC). RESULTS Subpopulations of mammary gland cells grown in vitro are classified on the basis of their distinct morphologic features and ability to communicate via gap junctions. Ultrastructurally, 2 morphologically distinct cell types were classified as type I and II cells. Type I cells were small light undiffertiated cells and large light undifferentiated cells that were deficient in functional gap junctions (as is characteristic of stem cells). Type II cells included large light differentiated cells and terminally differentiated cells; GJIC was functional in type II cells. Type II cells had cytoplasmic expression of connexin 43, whereas, type I cells did not. All cells expressed casein. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Subpopulations of bovine mammary gland cells with stem cell characteristics were identified. Phenotypic differences are observed among type I bovine mammary gland cells with stem cell characteristics. Gap junctional intercellular communication may be necessary for the differentiation of stem cells. Characterization of bovine mammary gland stem cells and their progeny may provide a new tool with which to study mammary gland health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margo S Holland
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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