Comparative studies on tissue transglutaminase and factor XIII

Pentoxifylline-induced protein expression change in RAW 264.7 cells as determined by immunoprecipitation-based high performance liquid chromatography

Although pentoxifylline (PTX) was identified as a competitive non-selective phosphodiesterase inhibitor, its pharmacological effect has not been clearly elucidated. The present study explored the effect of low dose 10 μg/mL PTX (therapeutic dose) compared to high dose 300 μg/mL PTX (experimental dose) in RAW 264.7 cells through immunoprecipitation-based high performance liquid chromatography (IP-HPLC), immunohistochemistry, and western blot. 10 μg/mL PTX increased the expression of proliferation (Ki-67, PCNA, cyclin D2, cdc25A), epigenetic modification (KDM4D, PCAF, HMGB1), protein translation (DOHH, DHPS, eIF5A1), RAS signaling (KRAS, pAKT1/2/3, PI3K), NFkB signaling (NFkB, GADD45, p38), protection (HSP70, SOD1, GSTO1/2), survival (pAKT1/2/3, SP1, sirtuin 6), neuromuscular differentiation (NSEγ, myosin-1a, desmin), osteoblastic differentiation (BMP2, RUNX2, osterix), acute inflammation (TNFα, IL-1, CXCR4), innate immunity (β-defensin 1, lactoferrin, TLR-3, -4), cell-mediated immunity (CD4, CD8, CD80), while decreased the expression of ER stress (eIF2α, eIF2AK3, ATF6α), fibrosis (FGF2, CTGF, collagen 3A1), and chronic inflammation (CD68, MMP-2, -3, COX2) versus the untreated controls. The activation of proliferation by 10 μg/mL PTX was also supported by the increase of cMyc-MAX heterodimer and β-catenin-TCF1 complex in double IP-HPLC. 10 μg/mL PTX enhanced FAS-mediated apoptosis but diminished p53-mediated apoptosis, and downregulated many angiogenesis proteins (angiogenin, VEGF-A, and FLT4), but upregulated HIF1α, VEGFR2, and CMG2 reactively. Whereas, 300 μg/mL PTX consistently decreased proliferation, epigenetic modification, RAS and NFkB signaling, neuromuscular and osteoblastic differentiation, but increased apoptosis, ER stress, and fibrosis compared to 10 μg/mL PTX. These data suggest PTX has different biological effect on RWA 264.7 cells depending on the concentration of 10 μg/mL and 300 μg/mL PTX. The low dose 10 μg/mL PTX enhanced RAS/NFkB signaling, proliferation, differentiation, and inflammation, particularly, it stimulated neuromuscular and osteoblastic differentiation, innate immunity, and cell-mediated immunity, but attenuated ER stress, fibrosis, angiogenesis, and chronic inflammation, while the high dose 300 μg/mL PTX was found to alleviate the 10 μg/mL PTX-induced biological effects, resulted in the suppression of RAS/NFkB signaling, proliferation, neuromuscular and osteoblastic differentiation, and inflammation.

Fibrin glue inhibits migration of ocular surface epithelial cells

PurposeFibrin glue has been used successfully in numerous ophthalmic surgical procedures. Recently, fibrin glue has been used in limbal stem cell transplantation to reduce both operative time and to negate the need for sutures. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of fibrin glue on epithelial cell migration in vitro.MethodsCorneoscleral rims were split to retain the epithelial layer, Bowman's layer, and anterior stroma. Rims were cut into eight equal-sized pieces and were placed directly on culture plates or affixed with fibrin glue. Rims were maintained in culture for 25 days and epithelial cell growth was monitored. Cells were photographed to measure area or growth and immunofluorescence staining of explants for fibrin was performed.ResultsExplants that were glued demonstrated significantly delayed epithelial cell growth and migration as compared with explants without glue. By day 16, all fibrin glue had dissolved and coincided with onset of cell growth from glued explants. Cell growth commenced between days 3 and 4 for control explants without glue and around days 14-16 for explants with fibrin glue.ConclusionsFibrin glue delays epithelial cell migration by acting as a physical barrier and can potentially interfere with explant-derived limbal epithelial cell migration on to the corneal surface. We propose that glue should be used to attach the conjunctival frill of the limbal explant but care should be taken to ensure that the glue does not wrap around the explant if used to secure the explant as well. Strategic use of glue, to attach the recessed conjunctiva, can be advantageous in delaying conjunctival cell migration and reducing the need for sequential sector conjunctival epitheliectomy.

The Cornified Cell Envelope: Loricrin and Transglutaminases

The cornified cell envelope (CE) of terminally differentiated human epidermis is a complex structure consisting of several defined protein constituents. The CE is the most insoluble component of the epidermis due to crosslinking by disulfide bonds as well as isodipeptide bonds that are formed by the action of transglutaminases (TGases). We have recently determined that loricrin is the major component of CE. We now have isolated and characterized its gene and showed that it has a simple structure with a single intron. We also show that the loricrin gene maps to position 1q21, which, coincidentally, is similar to the location of the profilaggrin and involucrin genes. Human loricrin in 26 kDa and consists of three long glycine-serine-cysteine rich sequence domains that contain quasi-repeating peptides and which form the novel glycine loop motif. These are interspersed by lysine+glutamine rich domains involved in isodipeptide crosslinks. The glycine loops are thought to be involved in organization of epidermal proteins and maintenance of the flexibility of the epidermis. By use of PCR analyses, we have found that human loricrin consists of two allelic size variants, due to sequence variations in the second glycine loop domain only, and these variants segregate in the human population by normal Mendelian mechanisms. Furthermore, there are multiple sequence variants within these two size class alleles due to various deletions of 12 bp (4 amino acids) in the major loop of this glycine loop domain. In order to study the expression and role of TGases in the formation of CE, we have isolated and sequenced cDNA and genomic clones encoding the TGase1 enzyme.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Transglutaminases: recent achievements and new sources

Transglutaminases are a family of enzymes (EC 2.3.2.13), widely distributed in various organs, tissues, and body fluids, that catalyze the formation of a covalent bond between a free amine group and the γ-carboxamide group of protein or peptide-bound glutamine. Besides forming these bonds, that exhibit high resistance to proteolytic degradation, transglutaminases also form extensively cross-linked, generally insoluble, protein biopolymers that are indispensable for the organism to create barriers and stable structures. The extremely high cost of transglutaminase of animal origin has hampered its wider application and has initiated efforts to find an enzyme of microbial origin. Since the early 1990s, many microbial transglutaminase-producing strains have been found, and production processes have been optimized. This has resulted in a rapidly increasing number of applications of transglutaminase in the food sector. However, applications of microbial transglutaminase in other sectors have also been explored, but in a much lesser extent. Our group has identified a transglutaminase in the oomycete Phytophthora cinnamomi, which is able to induct defense responses and disease-like symptoms. In this mini-review, we report the achievements in this area in order to illustrate the importance and the versatility of transglutaminases.

Biomimetic materials for medical application through enzymatic modification

Living organisms synthesize functional materials, based on proteins and polysaccharides, using enzyme-catalyzed reactions. According to the biomimetic approach, biomaterial matrices for tissue engineering are designed to be able to mimic the properties and the functions of the extracellular matrix (ECM). In this chapter, the most significant research efforts dedicated to the study and the preparation of biomimetic materials through enzymatic modifications were reviewed. The functionalizations of different polymeric matrices obtained through the catalytic activity of two enzymes (Transglutaminase, TGase and Tyrosinase, TYRase) were discussed. Specifically, the biomimetic applications of TGase and TYRase to confer appropriate biomimetic properties to the biomaterials, such as the possibility to obtain in situ gelling hydrogels and the incorporation of bioactive molecules (growth factors) and cell-binding peptides into the scaffolds, were reviewed.

Whole-Genome Shotgun Assembly and Analysis of the Genome of Streptomyces mobaraensis DSM 40847, a Strain for Industrial Production of Microbial Transglutaminase

Here, we report the draft annotated genome sequence of Streptomyces mobaraensis strain DSM 40847, which is used in industry to produce microbial transglutaminase. The genome sequence will allow for the characterization of the molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial properties of this organism.

Factor XIII: a coagulation factor with multiple plasmatic and cellular functions

Factor XIII (FXIII) is unique among clotting factors for a number of reasons: 1) it is a protransglutaminase, which becomes activated in the last stage of coagulation; 2) it works on an insoluble substrate; 3) its potentially active subunit is also present in the cytoplasm of platelets, monocytes, monocyte-derived macrophages, dendritic cells, chondrocytes, osteoblasts, and osteocytes; and 4) in addition to its contribution to hemostasis, it has multiple extra- and intracellular functions. This review gives a general overview on the structure and activation of FXIII as well as on the biochemical function and downregulation of activated FXIII with emphasis on new developments in the last decade. New aspects of the traditional functions of FXIII, stabilization of fibrin clot, and protection of fibrin against fibrinolysis are summarized. The role of FXIII in maintaining pregnancy, its contribution to the wound healing process, and its proangiogenic function are reviewed in details. Special attention is given to new, less explored, but promising fields of FXIII research that include inhibition of vascular permeability, cardioprotection, and its role in cartilage and bone development. FXIII is also considered as an intracellular enzyme; a separate section is devoted to its intracellular activation, intracellular action, and involvement in platelet, monocyte/macrophage, and dendritic cell functions.

Enzymes in the acquired enamel pellicle

The acquired pellicle is a biofilm, free of bacteria, covering oral hard and soft tissues. It is composed of mucins, glycoproteins and proteins, among which are several enzymes. This review summarizes the present state of research on enzymes and their functions in the dental pellicle. Theoretically, all enzymes present in the oral cavity could be incorporated into the pellicle, but apparently enzymes are adsorbed selectively onto dental surfaces. There is clear evidence that enzymes are structural elements of the pellicle. Thereby they exhibit antibacterial properties but also facilitate bacterial colonization of dental hard tissues. Moreover, the immobilized enzymes are involved in modification and in homeostasis of the salivary pellicle. It has been demonstrated that amylase, lysozyme, carbonic anhydrases, glucosyltransferases and fructosyltransferase are immobilized in an active conformation in the pellicle layer formed in vivo. Other enzymes, such as peroxidase or transglutaminase, have been investigated in experimental pellicles. Despite the depicted impact of enzymes on the formation and function of pellicle, broader knowledge on their properties in the in vivo-formed pellicle is required. This might be beneficial in the development of new preventive and diagnostic strategies.

Factor XIII activity levels in patients with allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and acute graft-versus-host disease of the gut

Severe graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) of the gut clinically resembles Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. As low plasma levels of factor XIII (FXIII) have been described in chronic inflammatory bowel disease (CIBD) and as beneficial effects of FXIII concentrates in CIBD have been reported, we studied the FXIII plasma activity levels in patients undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT). In 20 of 22 patients with an uncomplicated course of SCT, FXIII stayed within the normal range (median 102 iu/dl, range 74-122), but was significantly reduced with the lowest FXIII levels on d 0 and 7 (d 0: median 83 iu/dl, range 55-165, d 7: median 83, range 70-101). In 20 of 22 patients with histologically proven GvHD of the gut, FXIII levels far below the normal range were observed (median 50, range 21-87) with a strong correlation between FXIII activity levels and degree of GvHD (r = -0.908; P < 0.001). We conclude that FXIII is consumed in patients with GvHD of the gut. As FXIII plays a a crucial role in haemostasis and wound healing, a study on the potential benefit of FXIII substitution in patients with severe GvHD of the gut might be rewarding.

Assays for transglutaminases in cell death

Several in vivo and in vitro experimental model systems demonstrate a direct relationship between the expression and activity of tissue transglutaminase [tTG; also called transglutaminase type 2 (TGase 2)] and programmed cell death or apoptosis. This is based on mRNA and protein studies, sense and antisense transfection, identification of N epsilon-(gamma-glutamyl)-lysine cross-links in extracted apoptotic bodies, and in blue mouse experiments. In the epidermis, apoptosis occurs under particular conditions in the proliferative basal layer with the involvement of the tTG enzyme. However, in epidermal keratinocytes other TGases (TGase 1, TGase 3, and perhaps TGase X) are normally activated in a terminal differentiation program, called cornification, that leads to cell death. These cells perform their functions after death, providing an elastic physical and permeability barrier to the skin. In fact, TGase 1 mutations cause the skin disease lamellar ichthyosis. Because all TGases share strong similarities in structure and function, being involved in mechanisms of cell death, this chapter describes the current assays for TGases at the mRNA, protein, and enzymatic levels. We also describe procedures to produce, purify, and characterize recombinant TGases, to identify mutation in disease, to isolate cross-linked bodies, and to analyze the N epsilon-(gamma-glutamyl)-lysine isopeptide cross-links. Finally, we discuss general rules for the interpretation and comparison of these events in cell death.

The role of gamma A/gamma ' fibrinogen in plasma factor XIII activation

Factor XIII zymogen activation is a complex series of events that involve fibrinogen acting in several different roles. This report focuses on the role of fibrinogen as a cofactor in factor XIII activation by thrombin. We demonstrate that fibrinogen has two distinct activities that lead to an increased rate of factor XIII activation. First, the thrombin proteolytic activity is increased by fibrin. The cleavage rates of both a small chromogenic substrate and the factor XIII activation peptide are increased in the presence of either the major fibrin isoform, gammaA/gammaA fibrin, or a minor variant form, gammaA/gamma' fibrin. This enhancement of thrombin activity by fibrin is independent of fibrin polymerization and requires only cleavage of the fibrinopeptides. Subsequently, gammaA/gamma' fibrinogen accelerates plasma factor XIII activation by a non-proteolytic mechanism. This increased rate of activation results in a slightly more rapid cross-linking of fibrin gammaA and gamma' chains and a significantly more rapid cross-linking of fibrin alpha chain multimers. Together, these results show that although both forms of fibrin increase the rate of activation peptide cleavage by thrombin, gammaA/gamma' fibrinogen also increases the rate of factor XIII activation in a non-proteolytic manner. A revised model of factor XIII activation is presented below.

Pellicle precursor protein crosslinking characterization of an adduct between acidic proline-rich protein (PRP-1) and statherin generated by transglutaminase

Recent work with oral transglutaminase indicated that this enzyme, derived from oral epithelial cells, crosslinked pellicle precursor proteins which may be important in the formation of the acquired enamel pellicle. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether purified acidic PRP-1 can form crosslinks with statherin, and whether such a crosslink is derived from a transglutaminase-catalyzed reaction between glutaminyl and lysyl side-chains, leading to a covalent bond formation. Enzymatic reaction products were analyzed by SDS-PAGE and reverse-phase HPLC. The SDS electrophoretogram revealed a protein band with an apparent molecular weight of 32 kDa, which is consistent with the combined apparent molecular weight of acidic PRP-1 (24 kDa) and statherin (8 kDa). A reaction product isolated by HPLC was characterized by amino acid analysis, which showed a stoichiometry consistent with being an adduct composed of one molecule of acidic PRP-1 and one molecule of statherin. In negative control experiments, it could be shown that this adduct was not detected when the lysines of both substrates were modified by reductive methylation prior to the enzymatic reaction. In addition, amino acid analysis and mass spectrometry confirmed the presence of a gamma-glutamyl-epsilon-lysine dipeptide after enzymatic hydrolysis and the absence of this dipeptide after acid hydrolysis. Analysis of the data obtained indicates that oral transglutaminase is capable of crosslinking acidic PRP-1 and statherin in vitro. In addition, this finding exemplifies the potential of post-secretory processing of salivary proteins, which may represent an additional mechanism to generate new protein species.

Site-directed mutagenesis of the calcium-binding site of blood coagulation factor XIIIa

Blood coagulation factor XIIIa is a calcium-dependent enzyme that covalently ligates fibrin molecules during blood coagulation. X-ray crystallography studies identified a major calcium-binding site involving Asp(438), Ala(457), Glu(485), and Glu(490). We mutated two glutamic acid residues (Glu(485) and Glu(490)) and three aspartic acid residues (Asp(472), Asp(476), and Asp(479)) that are in close proximity. Alanine substitution mutants of these residues were constructed, expressed, and purified from Escherichia coli. The K(act) values for calcium ions increased by 3-, 8-, and 21-fold for E485A, E490A, and E485A,E490A, respectively. In addition, susceptibility to proteolysis was increased by 4-, 9-, and 10-fold for E485A, E490A, and E485A,E490A, respectively. Aspartic acids 472, 476, and 479 are not involved directly in calcium binding since the K(act) values were not changed by mutagenesis. However, Asp(476) and Asp(479) are involved in regulating the conformation for exposure of the secondary thrombin cleavage site. This study provides biochemical evidence that Glu(485) and Glu(490) are Ca(2+)-binding ligands that regulate catalysis. The binding of calcium ion to this site protects the molecule from proteolysis. Furthermore, Asp(476) and Asp(479) play a role in modulating calcium-dependent conformational changes that cause factor XIIIa to switch from a protease-sensitive to a protease-resistant molecule.

Pathogenesis of inclusion bodies in (CAG)n/Qn-expansion diseases with special reference to the role of tissue transglutaminase and to selective vulnerability

At least eight neurodegenerative diseases, including Huntington disease, are caused by expansions in (CAG)n repeats in the affected gene and by an increase in the size of the corresponding polyglutamine domain in the expressed protein. A hallmark of several of these diseases is the presence of aberrant, proteinaceous aggregates in the nuclei and cytosol of affected neurons. Recent studies have shown that expanded polyglutamine (Qn) repeats are excellent glutaminyl-donor substrates of tissue transglutaminase, and that the substrate activity increases with increasing size of the polyglutamine domain. Tissue transglutaminase is present in the cytosol and nuclear fractions of brain tissue. Thus, the nuclear and cytosolic inclusions in Huntington disease may contain tissue transglutaminase-catalyzed covalent aggregates. The (CAG)n/Qn-expansion diseases are classic examples of selective vulnerability in the nervous system, in which certain cells/structures are particularly susceptible to toxic insults. Quantitative differences in the distribution of the brain transglutaminase(s) and its substrates, and in the activation mechanism of the brain transglutaminase(s), may explain in part selective vulnerability in a subset of neurons in (CAG)n-expansion diseases, and possibly in other neurodegenerative disease. If tissue transglutaminase is found to be essential for development of pathogenesis, then inhibitors of this enzyme may be of therapeutic benefit.

A Novel Asn344 Deletion in the Core Domain of Coagulation Factor XIII A Subunit: Its Effects on Protein Structure and Function

In this study a previously undescribed 3 bp deletion, AAT1030-1032, in the factor XIII A subunit gene, has been detected in a Thai patient. The inframe deletion results in the translation of a factor XIII A subunit that lacks Asn344. This is the first inframe deletion to be identified in the factor XIII A subunit gene because six previously reported deletions have all caused frameshifts. The deletion has been introduced into a factor XIII A subunit cDNA and the deleted polypeptide expressed in yeast. The mRNA encoding the mutant enzyme appears to have normal stability but the translated protein is subject to premature degradation. In addition, the mutated enzyme exhibited very little transglutaminase activity compared with the wild-type enzyme. Structural modeling of the deleted enzyme suggests that the absence of Asn344 would have a potent impact on the catalytic activity by reorienting the residues associated with the catalytic center. Thus, the Asn344 deletion strongly confirms the significance of the residues surrounding the catalytic center of the factor XIII A subunit.

A Novel Asn344 Deletion in the Core Domain of Coagulation Factor XIII A Subunit: Its Effects on Protein Structure and Function

In this study a previously undescribed 3 bp deletion, AAT1030-1032, in the factor XIII A subunit gene, has been detected in a Thai patient. The inframe deletion results in the translation of a factor XIII A subunit that lacks Asn344. This is the first inframe deletion to be identified in the factor XIII A subunit gene because six previously reported deletions have all caused frameshifts. The deletion has been introduced into a factor XIII A subunit cDNA and the deleted polypeptide expressed in yeast. The mRNA encoding the mutant enzyme appears to have normal stability but the translated protein is subject to premature degradation. In addition, the mutated enzyme exhibited very little transglutaminase activity compared with the wild-type enzyme. Structural modeling of the deleted enzyme suggests that the absence of Asn344 would have a potent impact on the catalytic activity by reorienting the residues associated with the catalytic center. Thus, the Asn344 deletion strongly confirms the significance of the residues surrounding the catalytic center of the factor XIII A subunit.

Identification of the eukaryotic initiation factor 5A as a retinoic acid-stimulated cellular binding partner for tissue transglutaminase II

GTP-binding protein/transglutaminases (tissue transglutaminases or TGases) have been implicated in a variety of cellular processes including retinoic acid (RA)-induced apoptosis. Recently, we have shown that RA activates TGases as reflected by stimulated GTP binding, increased membrane association, and stimulated phosphoinositide lipid turnover. This prompted us to search for cellular proteins that bind TGases in a RA-stimulated manner. In this report, we show that the eukaryotic initiation factor (eIF-5A), a protein that is essential for cell viability, perhaps through effects on protein synthesis and/or RNA export, associates with the TGase in vivo. The interaction between eIF-5A and TGase is specific for the GDP-bound form of the TGase and is not detected when the TGase is pre-loaded with GTP gamma S. The TGase-eIF-5A interaction also is promoted by Ca2+, Mg2+, and RA treatment of HeLa cells. In the presence of retinoic acid, millimolar levels of Ca2+ are no longer required for the TGase-eIF-5A interaction. Nocodazole treatment, which blocks the cell cycle at mitosis (M phase), strongly inhibits the interaction between eIF-5A and cytosolic TGase. The interaction between TGase and eIF-5A and its sensitivity to the nucleotide-occupied state of the TGase provides a potentially interesting connection between RA signaling and protein synthesis and/or RNA trafficking activities.

Inhibition of α-ketoglutarate-and pyruvate dehydrogenase complexes in E. coli by a glutathione S-transferase containing a pathological length poly-Q domain: A possible role of energy deficit in neurological diseases associated with poly-Q expansions?

At least seven adult-onset neurodegenerative diseases, including Huntington's disease (HD), are caused by genes containing expanded CAG triplets within their coding regions. The expanded CAG repeats give rise to extended stretches of polyglutamines (Qn) in the proteins expressed by the affected genes. Generally, n ≥40 in affected individuals and ≤36 in clinically unaffected individuals. The expansion has been proposed to confer a "toxic gain of function" to the mutated protein. Poly-Q domains have recently been shown to be excellent substrates of tissue transglutaminase. We investigated the effects of expression of glutathione S-transferase constructs containing poly-Q inserts of various lengths (GSTQn where n = 0, 10, 62 or 81) on the activity of some key metabolic enzymes in the host Escherischia coil-an organism not known to have transglutaminase activity. E. coil carrying the GSTQ62 construct exhibited statistically significant decreases in the specific activities of α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex (KGDHC) and pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDHC). Previous work has shown that KGDHC and PDHC activities are reduced in the brains of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. Our results suggest that KGDHC and PDHC may be particularly susceptible to the effects of a number of disparate insults, including those associated with AD and HD.

Transglutaminase-catalyzed inactivation of glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex by polyglutamine domains of pathological length

Several adult-onset neurodegenerative diseases are caused by genes with expanded CAG triplet repeats within their coding regions and extended polyglutamine (Qn) domains within the expressed proteins. Generally, in clinically affected individuals n >/= 40. Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase binds tightly to four Qn disease proteins, but the significance of this interaction is unknown. We now report that purified glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase is inactivated by tissue transglutaminase in the presence of glutathione S-transferase constructs containing a Qn domain of pathological length (n = 62 or 81). The dehydrogenase is less strongly inhibited by tissue transglutaminase in the presence of constructs containing shorter Qn domains (n = 0 or 10). Purified alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex also is inactivated by tissue transglutaminase plus glutathione S-transferase constructs containing pathological-length Qn domains (n = 62 or 81). The results suggest that tissue transglutaminase-catalyzed covalent linkages involving the larger poly-Q domains may disrupt cerebral energy metabolism in CAG/Qn expansion diseases.

Analysis of factor XIII substrate specificity using recombinant human factor XIII and tissue transglutaminase chimeras

Human factor XIII (FXIII) and tissue transglutaminase (tTG) are homologous proteins. FXIII requires thrombin for activation and cross-links the gamma chains of fibrin(ogen) more efficiently than the Aalpha chains. On the other hand, tTG is thrombin-independent and forms predominantly Aalpha and Aalpha-gamma chain complexes. Previous work from this laboratory demonstrated that amino acid residues within exon 7 of FXIII were important for catalysis (Hettasch, J. M., and Greenberg, C. S. (1994) J. Biol. Chem. 269, 28309-28313). To determine to what extent the primary amino acid sequence within exon 7 defines substrate specificity, exon 7 of FXIII was replaced with the corresponding exon of tTG using gene splicing by overlap extension. Other work from this laboratory (Achyuthan, K. E., Slaughter, T. F., Santiago, M. A., Enghild, J. J., and Greenberg, C. S. (1993) J. Biol. Chem. 268, 21284-21292) using synthetic peptides identified two other domains that might play a role in substrate recognition (located in exons 3 and 5). Therefore, recombinant chimeras of FXIII/tTG were also created in which these two exons were exchanged. FXIII, tTG, and chimeras 3, 5, and 7 were expressed in Escherichia coli, purified, and the nature of the fibrin cross-linking pattern of these five proteins was determined by immunoblot analysis. FXIII preferentially formed the gamma-gamma dimer, whereas tTG formed Aalpha-gamma complexes. Chimera 7 formed Aalpha-gamma complexes that resembled the cross-linking pattern of tTG. This finding demonstrates that the primary amino acid sequence of exon 7 of tTG confers some of the specificity for the Aalpha and Aalpha-gamma cross-link pattern characteristic of tTG. Chimera 5 exhibited reduced cross-linking activity (50% of FXIII activity) but still retained preference for formation of the gamma-gamma dimer, whereas chimera 3 was not active. In conclusion, exchanging the primary amino acid sequence of the active site exon of human FXIII with that of human tTG modifies the enzyme such that the fibrin cross-linking pattern more closely resembles that of tTG (Aalpha and Aalpha-gamma complexes) instead of FXIII (gamma-gamma dimers).

Peptides containing glutamine repeats as substrates for transglutaminase-catalyzed cross-linking: relevance to diseases of the nervous system

Many proteins contain reiterated glutamine residues, but polyglutamine of excessive length may result in human disease by conferring new properties on the protein containing it. One established property of a glutamine residue, depending on the nature of the flanking residues, is its ability to act as an amine acceptor in a transglutaminase-catalyzed reaction and to make a glutamyl-lysine cross-link with a neighboring polypeptide. To learn whether glutamine repeats can act as amine acceptors, we have made peptides with variable lengths of polyglutamine flanked by the adjacent amino acid residues in the proteins associated with spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1), Machado-Joseph disease (SCA3), or dentato-rubral pallidoluysian atrophy (DRPLA) or those residues adjacent to the preferred cross-linking site of involucrin, or solely by arginine residues. The polyglutamine was found to confer excellent substrate properties on any soluble peptide; under optimal conditions, virtually all the glutamine residues acted as amine acceptors in the reaction with glycine ethyl-ester, and lengthening the sequence of polyglutamine increased the reactivity of each glutamine residue. In the presence of transglutaminase, peptides containing polyglutamine formed insoluble aggregates with the proteins of brain extracts and these aggregates contained glutamyl-lysine cross-links. Repeated glutamine residues exposed on the surface of a neuronal protein should form cross-linked aggregates in the presence of any transglutaminase activated by the presence of Ca2+.

Congenital recessive ichthyosis unlinked to loci for epidermal transglutaminases

Congenital recessive ichthyosis has a broad range of clinical presentations, which may be considered a spectrum of phenotypes with classic lamellar ichthyosis at one pole and classic congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma at the other. The identification of mutations in the transglutaminase-1 gene as a cause of lamellar ichthyosis implicates transglutaminases in other congenital recessive ichthyoses. We investigated two multiplex families with clinical manifestations between the two poles for linkage to the transglutaminase-1 locus on chromosome 14. Strongly negative lod scores prompted a search for linkage to two other epidermally expressed transglutaminases, transglutaminase-2 and transglutaminase-3, on chromosome 20. No evidence for linkage was found. These data confirm the hypothesis that the congenital recessive ichthyoses are genetically heterogeneous and in two families exclude two other transglutaminases that could be considered as candidate loci for at least some of the nonlamellar recessive ichthyoses.

Biochemical effects of retinoic acid on GTP-binding Protein/Transglutaminases in HeLa cells. Stimulation of GTP-binding and transglutaminase activity, membrane association, and phosphatidylinositol lipid turnover

Treatment of HeLa cells with retinoic acid (RA) gives rise to a marked stimulation in the incorporation of [alpha-32P]GTP into an approximately 87-kDa cytosolic protein that cross-reacts with a monoclonal antibody raised against tissue transglutaminases. In the absence of RA treatment, the transglutaminase immunoreactivity elutes from a gel filtration column with an apparent size of approximately 600 kDa (designated TGa), whereas following RA treatment, a second peak of transglutaminase immunoreactivity (designated TGb) is detected with an apparent size of approximately 150 kDa. The TGa fractions show little or no GTP-binding or GTP hydrolytic activity and very little transglutaminase activity. However, the TGb fractions show all three activities. Retinoic acid treatment also promotes the association of the GTP-binding protein/transglutaminase with membrane fractions, as detected by Western blotting and photoaffinity cross-linking with [alpha-32P]GTP. In addition, the TGb fraction shows a markedly enhanced ability (relative to TGa) to associate with membranes from control (non-RA-treated) cells. The ability of the GTP-binding protein/transglutaminase to bind to membranes is correlated with the stimulation of a membrane-associated phospholipase C activity. Thus, these findings indicate that RA treatment results in a number of changes in the biochemical properties of a GTP-binding protein/transglutaminase which strongly enhance its ability to bind GTP, associate with plasma membranes, and stimulate phosphoinositide lipid turnover.

Novel aspects of blood coagulation factor XIII. I. Structure, distribution, activation, and function

Blood coagulation factor XIII (FXIII) is a protransglutaminase that becomes activated by the concerted action of thrombin and Ca2+ in the final stage of the clotting cascade. In addition to plasma, FXIII also occurs in platelets, monocytes, and monocyte-derived macrophages. While the plasma factor is a heterotetramer consisting of paired A and B subunits (A2B2), its cellular counterpart lacks the B subunits and is a homodimer of potentially active A subunits (A2). The gene coding for the A and B subunits has been localized to chromosomes 6p24-25 and 1q31-32.1, respectively. The genomic as well as the primary protein structure of both subunits has been established, and most recently the three-dimensional structure of recombinant cellular FXIII has also been revealed. Monocytes/macrophages synthesize their own FXIII, and very likely FXIII in platelets is synthesized by the megakaryocytes. Cells of bone marrow origin seem to be the primary site for the synthesis of subunit A in plasma FXIII, but hepatocytes might also contribute. The B subunit of plasma FXIII is synthesized in the liver. Plasma FXIII circulates in association with its substrate precursor, fibrinogen. Fibrin(ogen) has an important regulatory role in the activation of plasma FXIII. The most important steps of the activation of plasma FXIII are the proteolytic removal of activation peptide by thrombin, the dissociation of subunits A and B, and the exposure of the originally buried active site on the free A subunits. The end result of this process is the formation of an active transglutaminase, which cross-links peptide chains through epsilon(gamma-glutamyl)lysyl isopeptide bonds. Cellular FXIII in platelets becomes activated through a nonproteolytic process. When intracytoplasmic Ca2+ is raised during platelet activation, the zymogen--in the absence of subunit B--assumes an active configuration. The protein substrates of activated FXIII include components of the clotting-fibrinolytic system, adhesive and contractile proteins. The main physiological function of plasma FXIII is to cross-link fibrin and protect it from the fibrinolytic plasmin. The latter effect is achieved mainly by covalently linking alpha 2 antiplasmin, the most potent physiological inhibitor of plasmin, to fibrin. Plasma FXIII seems to be involved in wound healing and tissue repair, and it is essential to maintaining pregnancy. Cellular FXIII, if exposed to the surface of the cells, might support or perhaps take over the hemostatic functions of plasma FXIII; however, its intracellular role has remained mostly unexplored.

Involvement of transglutaminase in myofibril assembly of chick embryonic myoblasts in culture

Involvement of transglutaminase in myofibrillogenesis of chick embryonic myoblasts has been investigated in vitro. Both the activity and protein level of transglutaminase initially decreased to a minimal level at the time of burst of myoblast fusion but gradually increased thereafter. The localization of transglutaminase underwent a dramatic change from the whole cytoplasm in a diffuse pattern to the cross-striated sarcomeric A band, being strictly colocalized with the myosin thick filaments. For a brief period prior to the appearance of cross-striation, transglutaminase was localized in nonstriated filamental structures that coincided with the stress fiber-like structures. When 12-o-tetradecanoyl phorbol acetate was added to muscle cell cultures to induce the sequential disassembly of thin and thick filaments, transglutaminase was strictly colocalized with the myosin thick filaments even in the myosacs, of which most of the thin filaments were disrupted. Moreover, monodansylcadaverine, a competitive inhibitor of transglutaminase, reversibly inhibited the myofibril maturation. In addition, myosin heavy chain behaved as one of the potential intracellular substrates for transglutaminase. The cross-linked myosin complex constituted approximately 5% of the total Triton X-100-insoluble pool of myosin molecules in developing muscle cells, and its level was reduced to below 1% upon treatment with monodansylcadaverine. These results suggest that transglutaminase plays a crucial role in myofibrillogenesis of developing chick skeletal muscle.

Highly active soluble processed forms of the transglutaminase 1 enzyme in epidermal keratinocytes

The transglutaminase 1 (TGase 1) enzyme is required for the formation of a cornified cell envelope in epidermal keratinocytes. We show here that in addition to its membrane-anchored form, soluble forms of it are also important in keratinocytes. Proliferating cells contain soluble full-length enzyme of 106 kDa, but terminally differentiating cells contain a soluble 67-kDa form often complexed with a 33-kDa protein as well. The amino terminus of the 67 kDa form is residue 93 of the TGase 1 protein, corresponding to the site of proteolytic activation of the factor XIIIa TGase. The amino terminus of the 33-kDa protein is residue 573, corresponding to the site of a second proteolytic cleavage site of factor XIIIa, and of the site for proteolytic activation of the TGase 3 enzyme. The specific activity of the 67/33-kDa soluble complex is twice that of the soluble 67-kDa form and 10 times that of full-length TGase 1. The half-lives of the 67/33- and 106-kDa forms are about 7 or 20 h, respectively. Thus the TGase 1 enzyme is complex, since it exists in keratinocytes as multiple soluble forms, either intact or proteolytically processed at conserved sites, and which have varying specific activities and likely functions.

Effect of hypoxia and reoxygenation on the activity of transglutaminase in brain of newborn piglets

The transglutaminase activity in five regions of the brain of newborn piglets was measured and the effects of hypoxia and posthypoxic period on this activity evaluated. Enzyme activity was measured in homogenates from cortex, hippocampus, striatum, thalamus and midbrain. The control activities were 7.2, 6.2, 6.0, 5.7 and 4.6 pmol/mg protein/min, respectively. The activities at the end of an 18 min period of hypoxia induced by an FiO2 of 9% were not significantly different from control activities. By 3 h after the hypoxic episode, however, the transglutaminase activities were significantly above control levels in all five regions of the brain. Measurements of the kinetic constants of tranglutaminase indicated that increases in enzyme activity were associated with an increase in Vmax with no significant change in the apparent affinity of the enzyme for the substrate, putrescine. The increased activity of transglutaminase during the posthypoxic period, with no changes immediately after hypoxia, suggest that the increases could be due to increased enzyme synthesis rather than activation of existing enzyme. The rise in transglutaminase activity subsequent to a hypoxic episode may contribute significantly to the long-term disturbances in cellular metabolism in the immature brain induced by hypoxic episodes.

Cellular transglutaminases in neural development

Enzymes of the transglutaminase family catalyze the Ca(2+)-dependent covalent cross-linking of peptide-bound glutamine residues of proteins and glycoproteins to the epsilon-amino group of lysine residues to create inter- or intramolecular isopeptide bonds. Transglutaminases can also covalently link a variety of primary amines to peptide-bound glutamine residues giving rise to two possibilities; firstly, where the primary amine has two or more amino groups, further catalysis can result in the formation of cross-linked bridges between glutamine residues, and secondly, where the primary amine is a monoamine, glutamine residues are rendered inert to further modification. The products are therefore in the main, homo- or heterodimers, or extensive, metabolically-stable multimeric complexes or matrices. Ca(2+)-dependent transglutaminase activity is present in the mammalian peripheral and central nervous systems and transglutaminase-catalyzed cross-linking of endogenous substrates has been demonstrated in neurons of Aplysia and the mammalian brain. Transglutaminase activity increases in the brain during development, principally owing to the increasing preponderance of glial cell activity. In a few regions including the cerebellar cortex, activity is also high in early development. Cellular transglutaminases occur widely in differentiating cells and tissues in mammals, with more than one transglutaminase frequently associated with a single cell type. The primary protein sequences of three cellular transglutaminases have been fully determined in different species, together with that of a mammalian protein homologue (band 4.2) which shares extensive sequence homologies with transglutaminases, but lacks the active site cysteine residue. The upstream sequences of two mammalian cellular transglutaminase genes (C and K) contain numerous regulatory sites, and an invertebrate transglutaminase, annulin, is spatially regulated within homeodomains. Multiple molecular forms of transglutaminase C and possibly other cellular transglutaminases exist in mammalian brain. The emerging picture is one of a family of cytosolic and membrane-bound proteins central to several regulatory pathways whose functions is to stabilize the cellular and intercellular superstructure in growing organisms. The targeted formation of glu-lys isopeptide bonds between proteins is central to this function. Cytoskeletal proteins, membrane-associated receptors, enzymes in signal transduction pathways and extracellular glycoproteins are candidate substrates as are polyamines, but few cellular proteins have been identified as components of naturally-occurring covalently-bonded matrices. Transglutaminases participate in the programme of neuronal differentiation in some but not all classes of neurone. Both neuronal and non-neuronal expression of transglutaminases may be important for guidance of migrating neurons or growth cones and sustainment of cell shape and coordinates during development.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Factor XIII: inherited and acquired deficiency

Factor XIII (XIII), an enzyme found in plasma (present as a pro-enzyme), platelets and monocytes, is essential for normal haemostasis. It may also have a role to play in the processes of wound healing and tissue repair. Inherited XIII deficiency results in a life-long, severe bleeding diathesis which, if untreated, carries a very high risk of death in early life from intracranial bleeding. XIII is a zymogen requiring thrombin and calcium for activation. In plasma, XIII has two subunits: the 'a' subunit, which is the active enzyme, and the 'b' subunit which is a carrier protein. Activated XIII modifies the structure of clot by covalently crosslinking fibrin through an epsilon (gamma-glutamyl)lysine link. It also crosslinks other proteins, including fibronectin and alpha-2-plasmin inhibitor (alpha-2PI), into the clot through the same link. Clot modified by XIII is physically stronger, relatively more resistant to fibrinolysis and may be a more suitable medium for the ingrowth of fibroblasts. Inheritance of factor XIII is autosomal recessive. The majority of patients with the inherited defect show no XIII activity and absence of 'a' subunit protein in plasma, platelets and monocytes. At the molecular level, the defect is not a major gene rearrangement or deletion, but most likely a single point mutation which may be different in each family. Because of the severity of the bleeding diathesis, prophylaxis is desirable and has been shown to be very effective as the in vivo half-life of plasma XIII is long, and low plasma levels are sufficient for haemostasis. Acquired inhibitors have been reported in only two cases with inherited XIII deficiency. Acquired XIII deficiency has been described in a variety of diseases and bleeding has been controlled by therapy with large doses of XIII in such conditions as Henoch-Schönlein purpura, various forms of colitis, erosive gastritis and some forms of leukaemia. Large dose XIII therapy has also been used in an endeavour to promote wound healing after surgery and bone union in non-healing fractures. The use of XIII in these conditions remains controversial. Very rarely a bleeding diathesis results from the development of a specific inhibitor to XIII arising de novo, often as a complication in the course of a disease or in association with long-term drug therapy. The bleeding diathesis in these patients is difficult to treat.

Transglutaminase in response to hypertonic NaCl-induced gastric mucosal injury in rats

BACKGROUND

Polyamines serve as substitutes for transglutaminase-catalyzed protein cross-linking and are essential to the healing of gastric mucosal lesions. This study determines whether transglutaminase and protein cross-linking have a role in the healing of hypertonic NaCl-induced gastric lesions.

METHODS

Rats were fasted 22 hours before given 1 mL 3.4 Mol/L NaCl intragastrically. Gastric mucosa was examined histologically and grossly, and transglutaminase activity was measured as the Ca(2+)-dependent covalent incorporation of [3H]putrescine into acid-precipitable protein.

RESULTS

Transglutaminase activity increased significantly from 2 to 8 hours, peaking between 4 and 6 hours after NaCl administration. Lesions were significantly produced after 2 hours, and damage paralleled transglutaminase activity. Dansylcadaverine (200 mg/kg orally), a specific inhibitor of protein cross-linking, prevented the increases in transglutaminase activity and significantly delayed healing but had no effect on lesion formation.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that (1) hypertonic NaCl-induced gastric mucosal damage is associated with a significant increase in transglutaminase activity and (2) increased transglutaminase activity is involved in the mechanism of normal mucosal healing.

Deficiency of coagulation factor XIII A subunit caused by the dinucleotide deletion at the 5' end of exon III

A congenital deficiency of the coagulation Factor XIII A subunit (F XIII A) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder that is characterized by a life-long bleeding tendency complicated by a difficulty in healing. Thus far, no molecular genetic analysis of this disorder has been reported. In this study, we demonstrate the molecular abnormalities in a family with this disorder. We performed Northern blot analysis of peripheral blood monocytes obtained from the propositus and found a 4-kb single band of F XIII A mRNA whose size was identical with that of normal subjects. Exons II-XV, which encode all the amino acids, were individually amplified by a polymerase chain reaction (PCR). All PCR products from the propositus had lengths indistinguishable from those of the wild type on agarose gel, suggesting that this defect results from either a point mutation or a short deletion/insertion. The sequencing of F XIII A cDNA from the propositus revealed a deletion of the dinucleotide AG within the AGAG repeat at the position of 210 to 213. Concerning the genomic sequence, a deletion of dinucleotide AG was also demonstrated in the intron B-exon III boundary. This deletion appeared to cause a frameshift mutation making a new stop codon shortly thereafter, and leading to a deficiency of plasma F XIII A. The heterozygosity of the F XIII A deficiency in the patient's offspring was documented by the nucleotide sequences of their exon III.

Effect of retinoic acid on liver transglutaminase activity and carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage in mice

Transglutaminase (TGase) activity in the cytosol fraction of the mouse liver increased following intraperitoneal injection of retinoic acid. Retinoic acid inhibited the carbon tetrachloride-induced increase in serum alanine transaminase activity. These findings suggest that TGase is involved in the effect of retinoic acid on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage.