Regulation of intestinal tyrosine phosphorylation and programmed cell death by peroxovanadate

Vanadium pentoxide induced oxidative stress and cellular senescence in human lung fibroblasts

Both environmental exposure to vanadium pentoxide (V2O5, V+5 for its ionic counterparts) and fibroblast senescence are associated with pulmonary fibrosis, but whether V+5 causes fibroblast senescence remains unknown. We found in a dose-response study that 2-40 μM V+5 caused human lung fibroblasts (HLF) senescence with increased senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity and p16 expression, while cell death occurred at higher concentration (LC50, 82 μM V+5). Notably, measures of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production with fluorescence probes showed no association of ROS with V+5-dependent senescence. Preloading catalase (polyethylene-conjugated), a H2O2 scavenger, did not alleviate the cellular senescence induced by V+5. Analyses of the cellular glutathione (GSH) system showed that V+5 oxidized GSH, increased GSH biosynthesis, stimulated cellular GSH efflux and increased protein S-glutathionylation, and addition of N-acetyl cysteine inhibited V+5-elevated p16 expression, suggesting that thiol oxidation mediates V+5-caused senescence. Moreover, strong correlations between GSSG/GSH redox potential (Eh), protein S-glutathionylation, and cellular senescence (R2 > 0.99, p < 0.05) were present in V+5-treated cells. Studies with cell-free and enzyme-free solutions showed that V+5 directly oxidized GSH with formation of V+4 and GSSG in the absence of O2. Analyses of V+5 and V+4 in HLF and culture media showed that V+5 was reduced to V+4 in cells and that a stable V+4/V+5 ratio was rapidly achieved in extracellular media, indicating ongoing release of V+4 and reoxidation to V+5. Together, the results show that V+5-dependent fibroblast senescence is associated with a cellular/extracellular redox cycling mechanism involving the GSH system and occurring under conditions that do not cause cell death. These results establish a mechanism by which environmental vanadium from food, dietary supplements or drinking water, can cause or contribute to lung fibrosis in the absence of high-level occupational exposures and cytotoxic cell death.

Complexin-2 redistributes to the membrane of muscle cells in response to insulin and contributes to GLUT4 translocation

Insulin stimulates glucose uptake in muscle cells by rapidly redistributing vesicles containing GLUT4 glucose transporters from intracellular compartments to the plasma membrane (PM). GLUT4 vesicle fusion requires the formation of SNARE complexes between vesicular VAMP and PM syntaxin4 and SNAP23. SNARE accessory proteins usually regulate vesicle fusion processes. Complexins aide in neuro-secretory vesicle-membrane fusion by stabilizing trans-SNARE complexes but their participation in GLUT4 vesicle fusion is unknown. We report that complexin-2 is expressed and homogeneously distributed in L6 rat skeletal muscle cells. Upon insulin stimulation, a cohort of complexin-2 redistributes to the PM. Complexin-2 knockdown markedly inhibited GLUT4 translocation without affecting proximal insulin signalling of Akt/PKB phosphorylation and actin fiber remodelling. Similarly, complexin-2 overexpression decreased maximal GLUT4 translocation suggesting that the concentration of complexin-2 is finely tuned to vesicle fusion. These findings reveal an insulin-dependent regulation of GLUT4 insertion into the PM involving complexin-2.

BAG6 contributes to glucose uptake by supporting the cell surface translocation of the glucose transporter GLUT4

Defective translocation of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) to the cell surface is a key feature of insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes. Therefore, elucidating the mechanism of GLUT4 translocation is of primary importance. The mammalian Bag6/Bat3 gene has been suggested to be linked with potential obesity- and diabetes-associated loci, while its function in the control of glucose incorporation into the cytoplasm has not been investigated. In this study, we established a series of cell lines that stably expressed GLUT4 with three tandem repeats of the antigenic peptide inserted into its 1st extracellular loop. With these cell lines, we found that the depletion of endogenous BAG6 downregulated the cell surface expression of GLUT4, concomitant with the reduced incorporation of a glucose analog into the cells. Defective intracellular translocation of GLUT4 in BAG6-depleted cells is similar to the case observed for the depletion of Rab8a, an essential regulator of insulin-stimulated GLUT4 translocation. In addition, we observed that the assembly of syntaxin 6 into the endoplasmic reticulum membrane was slightly disturbed under BAG6 depletion. Given that Rab8a and syntaxin 6 are critical for GLUT4 translocation, we suggest that BAG6 may play multiple roles in the trafficking of glucose transporters to the cell surface.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.

Summary: BAG6 is critical for the insulin-stimulated translocation of GLUT4 from its peri-nuclear storage compartments to the cell surface.

DOC2B promotes insulin sensitivity in mice via a novel KLC1-dependent mechanism in skeletal muscle

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Skeletal muscle accounts for >80% of insulin-stimulated glucose uptake; dysfunction of this process underlies insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Insulin sensitivity is impaired in mice deficient in the double C2 domain β (DOC2B) protein, while whole-body overexpression of DOC2B enhances insulin sensitivity. Whether insulin sensitivity in the skeletal muscle is affected directly by DOC2B or is secondary to an effect on other tissues is unknown; the underlying molecular mechanisms also remain unclear.

METHODS

Human skeletal muscle samples from non-diabetic or type 2 diabetic donors were evaluated for loss of DOC2B during diabetes development. For in vivo analysis, new doxycycline-inducible skeletal-muscle-specific Doc2b-overexpressing mice fed standard or high-fat diets were evaluated for insulin and glucose tolerance, and insulin-stimulated GLUT4 accumulation at the plasma membrane (PM). For in vitro analyses, a DOC2B-overexpressing L6-GLUT4-myc myoblast/myotube culture system was coupled with an insulin resistance paradigm. Biochemical and molecular biology methods such as site-directed mutagenesis, co-immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry were used to identify the molecular mechanisms linking insulin stimulation to DOC2B.

RESULTS

We identified loss of DOC2B (55% reduction in RNA and 40% reduction in protein) in the skeletal muscle of human donors with type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, inducible enrichment of DOC2B in skeletal muscle of transgenic mice enhanced whole-body glucose tolerance (AUC decreased by 25% for female mice) and peripheral insulin sensitivity (area over the curve increased by 20% and 26% for female and male mice, respectively) in vivo, underpinned by enhanced insulin-stimulated GLUT4 accumulation at the PM. Moreover, DOC2B enrichment in skeletal muscle protected mice from high-fat-diet-induced peripheral insulin resistance, despite the persistence of obesity. In L6-GLUT4-myc myoblasts, DOC2B enrichment was sufficient to preserve normal insulin-stimulated GLUT4 accumulation at the PM in cells exposed to diabetogenic stimuli. We further identified that DOC2B is phosphorylated on insulin stimulation, enhancing its interaction with a microtubule motor protein, kinesin light chain 1 (KLC1). Mutation of Y301 in DOC2B blocked the insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of DOC2B and interaction with KLC1, and it blunted the ability of DOC2B to enhance insulin-stimulated GLUT4 accumulation at the PM.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

These results suggest that DOC2B collaborates with KLC1 to regulate insulin-stimulated GLUT4 accumulation at the PM and regulates insulin sensitivity. Our observation provides a basis for pursuing DOC2B as a novel drug target in the muscle to prevent/treat type 2 diabetes.

Naturally Occurring Carbazole Alkaloids from Murraya koenigii as Potential Antidiabetic Agents

This study identified koenidine (4) as a metabolically stable antidiabetic compound, when evaluated in a rodent type 2 model (leptin receptor-deficient db/db mice), and showed a considerable reduction in the postprandial blood glucose profile with an improvement in insulin sensitivity. Biological studies were directed from the preliminary in vitro evaluation of the effects of isolated carbazole alkaloids (1-6) on glucose uptake and GLUT4 translocation in L6-GLUT4myc myotubes, followed by an investigation of their activity (2-5) in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. The effect of koenidine (4) on GLUT4 translocation was mediated by the AKT-dependent signaling pathway in L6-GLUT4myc myotubes. Moreover, in vivo pharmacokinetic studies of compounds 2 and 4 clearly showed that compound 4 was 2.7 times more bioavailable than compound 2, resulting in a superior in vivo efficacy. Therefore, these studies suggested that koenidine (4) may serve as a promising lead natural scaffold for managing insulin resistance and diabetes.

MG53-induced IRS-1 ubiquitination negatively regulates skeletal myogenesis and insulin signalling

Mitsugumin 53 (MG53) negatively regulates skeletal myogenesis by targeting insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1). Here, we show that MG53 is an ubiquitin E3 ligase that induces IRS-1 ubiquitination with the help of an E2-conjugating enzyme, UBE2H. Molecular manipulations that disrupt the E3-ligase function of MG53 abolish IRS-1 ubiquitination and enhance skeletal myogenesis. Skeletal muscles derived from the MG53-/- mice show an elevated IRS-1 level with enhanced insulin signalling, which protects the MG53-/- mice from developing insulin resistance when challenged with a high-fat/high-sucrose diet. Muscle samples derived from human diabetic patients and mice with insulin resistance show normal expression of MG53, indicating that altered MG53 expression does not serve as a causative factor for the development of metabolic disorders. Thus, therapeutic interventions that target the interaction between MG53 and IRS-1 may be a novel approach for the treatment of metabolic diseases that are associated with insulin resistance.

Effects of ebselen on ischemia/reperfusion injury in rat brain

AIM

Interruption of blood flow may result in considerable tissue damage via ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury-induced oxidative stress in brain tissues. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of Ebselen treatment in short-term global brain I/R injury in rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was carried out on 27 Wistar-albino rats, divided into three groups including Sham group (n = 11), I/R group (n = 8) and I/R+Ebselen group (n = 8).

RESULTS

Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly increased in I/R group in comparison with the Sham group and I/R+Ebselen group (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was significantly lower in I/R group in comparison to both Sham (p < 0.001) and I/R+Ebselen (p < 0.01) groups. Similarly, SOD activity was decreased in I/R+Ebselen group when compared with Sham group (p < 0.001). Sham and I/R groups were similar in terms of nitric oxide (NO) levels. In contrast, the NO level was lower in I/R+Ebselen group when compared with Sham (p < 0.001) and I/R (p < 0.01) groups. There was no significant difference among the groups in terms of glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities. In histopathological examination, the brain tissues of rats that received Ebselen showed morphological improvement.

CONCLUSION

Ebselen has neuron-protective effects due to its antioxidant properties as shown by the decrease in MDA overproduction, increase in SOD activity and the histological improvement after administration of Ebselen to I/R in brain tissue.

Myo1c binding to submembrane actin mediates insulin-induced tethering of GLUT4 vesicles

GLUT4-containing vesicles cycle between the plasma membrane and intracellular compartments. Insulin promotes GLUT4 exocytosis by regulating GLUT4 vesicle arrival at the cell periphery and its subsequent tethering, docking, and fusion with the plasma membrane. The molecular machinery involved in GLUT4 vesicle tethering is unknown. We show here that Myo1c, an actin-based motor protein that associates with membranes and actin filaments, is required for insulin-induced vesicle tethering in muscle cells. Myo1c was found to associate with both mobile and tethered GLUT4 vesicles and to be required for vesicle capture in the total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) zone beneath the plasma membrane. Myo1c knockdown or overexpression of an actin binding-deficient Myo1c mutant abolished insulin-induced vesicle immobilization, increased GLUT4 vesicle velocity in the TIRF zone, and prevented their externalization. Conversely, Myo1c overexpression immobilized GLUT4 vesicles in the TIRF zone and promoted insulin-induced GLUT4 exposure to the extracellular milieu. Myo1c also contributed to insulin-dependent actin filament remodeling. Thus we propose that interaction of vesicular Myo1c with cortical actin filaments is required for insulin-mediated tethering of GLUT4 vesicles and for efficient GLUT4 surface delivery in muscle cells.

Triiodothyronine acutely stimulates glucose transport into L6 muscle cells without increasing surface GLUT4, GLUT1, or GLUT3

BACKGROUND

Thyroid hormones (THs) act genomically to stimulate glucose transport by elevating glucose transporter (Slc2a) expression and glucose utilization by cells. However, nongenomic effects of THs are now emerging. Here, we assess how triiodothyronine (T(3)) acutely affects glucose transport and the content of GLUT4, GLUT1, and GLUT3 at the surface of muscle cells, and possible interactions between T(3) and insulin action.

METHODS

Differentiated L6 myotubes transfected with myc-tagged Slc2a4 (L6-GLUT4myc) or Slc2a1 (L6-GLUT1myc) and wild-type L6 myotubes were studied in the following conditions: control, hypothyroid (Tx), Tx plus T(3), Tx plus insulin, and Tx plus insulin and T(3).

RESULTS

Glucose uptake and GLUT4 content at the cell surface decreased in the Tx group relative to controls. T(3) treatment for 30 minutes increased glucose transport into L6-GLUT4myc cells without altering surface GLUT4 content, which increased only thereafter. The total amount of GLUT4 protein remained unchanged among the groups studied. The surface GLUT1 content of L6-GLUT1myc cells also remained unaltered after T(3) treatment; however, in these cells glucose transport was not stimulated by T(3). In wild-type L6 cells, although T(3) treatment increased the total amount of GLUT3, it did not change the surface GLUT3 content. Moreover, within 30 minutes, T(3) stimulation of glucose uptake was additive to that of insulin in L6-GLUT4myc cells. As expected, insulin elevated surface GLUT4 content and glucose uptake. However, interestingly, surface GLUT4 content remained unchanged or even dropped with T(3) plus insulin.

CONCLUSIONS

These data reveal that T(3) rapidly increases glucose uptake in L6-GLUT4myc cells, which, at least for 30 minutes, did not depend on an increment in GLUT4 at the cell surface yet potentiates insulin action. We propose that this rapid T(3) effect involves activation of GLUT4 transporters at the cell surface, but cannot discount the involvement of an unknown GLUT.

Dietary vanadium induces lymphocyte apoptosis in the bursa of Fabricius of broilers

The purpose of this 42-day study was to investigate the apoptosis in the bursa of Fabricius induced by different levels of dietary vanadium. A total of 420 1-day-old avian broilers were divided into 6 groups in which there were 7 replicates in each group and 10 broilers in each replicate and fed on a corn-soybean basal diet as control diet (vanadium 0.073 mg/kg) or the same diet amended to contain 5, 15, 30, 45, and 60 mg/kg vanadium supplied as ammonium metavanadate (NH(4)VO(3)). Ultrastructurally, mitochondrial injury and increased numbers of apoptotic cells with condensed nuclei were observed in the 30, 45, and 60 mg/kg groups. As measured by flow cytometry, the percentages of apoptotic lymphocytes were significantly increased in the 15-, 30-, 45-, and 60-mg/kg groups when compared with those of control group. Meanwhile, the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase 2'-deoxyuridine 5'-triphosphate nick end-labeling assay showed that there were increased numbers of apoptotic cells in the 30-, 45-, and 60-mg/kg groups. Immunohistochemical tests showed increased numbers of positive cells under Bax and caspase-3 protein detection and decreased Bcl-2 protein in the 15-, 30-, 45-, and 60-mg/kg groups. The vanadium content of the bursa was found to be significantly increased in the 30-, 45-, and 60-mg/kg groups. These results suggested that dietary vanadium in excess of 15 mg/kg could cause lymphocyte apoptosis in the bursa of Fabricius and impact humoral immunity in broilers. Lymphocyte apoptosis in the bursa induced by high levels of dietary vanadium is associated with mitochondrial injury and changes in levels of apoptogenic proteins, such as Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3.

Assessment of the genetic risks of a metallic alloy used in medical implants

The use of artificial implants provides a palliative or permanent solution for individuals who have lost some bodily function through disease, an accident or natural wear. This functional loss can be compensated for by the use of medical devices produced from special biomaterials. Titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) is a well-established primary metallic biomaterial for orthopedic implants, but the toxicity of the chemical components of this alloy has become an issue of concern. In this work, we used the MTT assay and micronucleus assay to examine the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity, respectively, of an extract obtained from this alloy. The MTT assay indicated that the mitochondrial activity and cell viability of CHO-K1 cells were unaffected by exposure to the extract. However, the micronucleus assay revealed DNA damage and an increase in micronucleus frequency at all of the concentrations tested. These results show that ions released from Ti-6Al-4V alloy can cause DNA and nuclear damage and reinforce the importance of assessing the safety of metallic medical devices constructed from biomaterials.

Novel use of fluorescent glucose analogues to identify a new class of triazine-based insulin mimetics possessing useful secondary effects

There is an urgent need to discover new compounds that effectively treat diabetes by mimicking the action of insulin (insulin mimetics). Traditional approaches to studying anti-diabetic agents in cells are inconvenient for screening chemical libraries to identify insulin mimetics. 2-(N-(7-Nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl)amino)-2-deoxyglucose (2-NBDG) and 6-NBDG are fluorescent analogues of glucose that could be employed in screening. However, there are no published data about the use of these analogues to identify new insulin mimetics. We have developed a screening system based on 6-NBDG using 3T3-L1 adipocytes in a 96-well culture plate format. 6-NBDG was found to produce a larger signal than 2-NBDG in this screening system. 6-NBDG uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes was sensitive to insulin, known insulin mimetics, inhibitors of glucose transport and insulin-sensitizing compounds. To validate our screening system, a chemical library of 576 tagged, triazine-based small molecules was screened. The screening results were identical to that obtained from a commercial enzyme-based glucose assay. Two inducers of glucose uptake were shown to be non-cytotoxic and confirmed as insulin mimetic compounds by their inhibition of epinephrine-stimulated free fatty acid release from adipocytes. These novel insulin mimetics functioned at a markedly lower concentration than two widely studied insulin mimetics, zinc(ii) complexes and vanadium compounds, and also showed novel, beneficial effects on endothelial cell function (a key determinant of secondary complications in diabetes). The discovery of new insulin mimetics using 6-NBDG validates the use of this probe in the development of large-scale, cell-based screening systems based on the uptake of fluorescent-tagged glucose analogues. This research should aid the development of novel strategies to discover new drugs and drug targets for combating the increasing prevalence of diabetes.

Arp2/3- and cofilin-coordinated actin dynamics is required for insulin-mediated GLUT4 translocation to the surface of muscle cells

Insulin increases GLUT4 at the muscle cell surface, and this process requires actin remodeling. We show that a dynamic cycle of actin polymerization and severing is induced by insulin, governed by Arp2/3 and dephosphorylation of cofilin, respectively. The cycle is self-perpetuating and is essential for GLUT4 translocation.

GLUT4 vesicles are actively recruited to the muscle cell surface upon insulin stimulation. Key to this process is Rac-dependent reorganization of filamentous actin beneath the plasma membrane, but the underlying molecular mechanisms have yet to be elucidated. Using L6 rat skeletal myoblasts stably expressing myc-tagged GLUT4, we found that Arp2/3, acting downstream of Rac GTPase, is responsible for the cortical actin polymerization evoked by insulin. siRNA-mediated silencing of either Arp3 or p34 subunits of the Arp2/3 complex abrogated actin remodeling and impaired GLUT4 translocation. Insulin also led to dephosphorylation of the actin-severing protein cofilin on Ser-3, mediated by the phosphatase slingshot. Cofilin dephosphorylation was prevented by strategies depolymerizing remodeled actin (latrunculin B or p34 silencing), suggesting that accumulation of polymerized actin drives severing to enact a dynamic actin cycling. Cofilin knockdown via siRNA caused overwhelming actin polymerization that subsequently inhibited GLUT4 translocation. This inhibition was relieved by reexpressing Xenopus wild-type cofilin-GFP but not the S3E-cofilin-GFP mutant that emulates permanent phosphorylation. Transferrin recycling was not affected by depleting Arp2/3 or cofilin. These results suggest that cofilin dephosphorylation is required for GLUT4 translocation. We propose that Arp2/3 and cofilin coordinate a dynamic cycle of actin branching and severing at the cell cortex, essential for insulin-mediated GLUT4 translocation in muscle cells.

Inactivating cholecystokinin-2 receptor inhibits progastrin-dependent colonic crypt fission, proliferation, and colorectal cancer in mice

Hyperproliferation of the colonic epithelium, leading to expansion of colonic crypt progenitors, is a recognized risk factor for colorectal cancer. Overexpression of progastrin, a nonamidated and incompletely processed product of the gastrin gene, has been shown to induce colonic hyperproliferation and promote colorectal cancer in mice, but the mechanism of pathogenesis has not been defined. Cholecystokinin-2 receptor (CCK2R) is the primary receptor for cholecystokinin (CCK) and amidated gastrin. Here, we show that Cck2r was expressed in murine colonic crypts and upregulated in the transgenic mice that overexpress human progastrin. Murine deletion of Cck2r abrogated progastrin-dependent increases in colonic proliferation, mucosal thickness, and beta-catenin and CD44 expression in the colon tumor. In addition, either deletion or antagonism of Cck2r resulted in the inhibition of progastrin-dependent increases in progenitors expressing doublecortin and CaM kinase-like-1 (DCAMKL1), stem cells expressing leucine rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor 5 (LgR5), and colonic crypt fission. Furthermore, in the azoxymethane mouse model of colorectal carcinogenesis, Cck2r deletion in human progastrin-overexpressing mice resulted in markedly decreased aberrant crypt foci formation and substantially reduced tumor size and multiplicity. Taken together, these observations indicate that progastrin induces proliferative effects, primarily in colonic progenitor cells, through a CCK2R-dependent pathway. Moreover, our data suggest that CCK2R may be a potential target in the treatment or prevention of colorectal cancer.

The many ways to regulate glucose transporter 4

Glucose uptake into skeletal muscle is primarily mediated by glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4). The number of GLUT4 polypeptides at the surface of muscle cells rises rapidly in response to insulin, contraction, depolarization, or energy deprivation. However, distinct mechanisms underlie the gain in surface GLUT4 in each case. Insulin promotes its exocytosis to the membrane, regulating vesicle movement, tethering, docking, and fusion. In contrast, muscle contraction, depolarization, and energy demand reduce GLUT4 endocytosis. The signals involved in each case also differ. Insulin utilizes Akt, Rabs, and selective actin remodelling, whereas depolarization and energy deprivation engage AMP-activated protein kinase and Ca2+-dependent signals. GLUT4 internalizes via 2 major routes that involve dynamin, but only one requires clathrin. The clathrin-independent route is slowed down by energy deprivation, and is regulated by AMP-activated protein kinase. In addition to regulation of the exocytic and endocytic movement of GLUT4, glucose uptake is also modulated through changes in the transporter's intrinsic activity. The glycolytic enzymes glyceraldehyde-3-dehydrogenase and hexokinase II contribute to such regulation, through differential binding to GLUT4.

4-Hydroxyisoleucine: a plant-derived treatment for metabolic syndrome

The plant fenugreek has been used for centuries as a treatment for diabetes. This article presents evidence that the major isomer of 4-hydroxyisoleucine, an atypical branched-chain amino acid derived from fenugreek, is responsible for the effects of this plant on glucose and lipid metabolism. 4-Hydroxyisoleucine was demonstrated to stimulate glucose-dependent insulin secretion by a direct effect on pancreatic islets. In addition to stimulating insulin secretion, 4-hydroxyisoleucine reduced insulin resistance in muscle and/or liver by activating insulin receptor substrate-associated phosphoinositide 3 (PI3) kinase activity. 4-Hydroxyisoleucine also reduced body weight in diet-induced obese mice. The decrease in body weight was associated with a marked decrease in both plasma insulin and glucose levels, both of which are elevated in this animal model. Finally, 4-hydroxyisoleucine decreased elevated plasma triglyceride and total cholesterol levels in a hamster model of diabetes. Based on the beneficial metabolic properties that have been demonstrated, 4-hydroxyisoleucine, a simple, plant-derived amino acid, may represent an attractive new candidate for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, obesity and dyslipidemia, all key components of metabolic syndrome.

AKT1 mediates bypass of the G1/S checkpoint after genotoxic stress in normal human cells

Certain forms of hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] are human carcinogens. Our recent work has shown that a broad range protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) inhibitor, sodium orthovanadate (SOV), abrogated both Cr(VI)-induced growth arrest and clonogenic lethality. Notably, SOV enhanced Cr(VI) mutation frequency, ostensibly through forced survival of genetically damaged cells. In the present study, co-treatment with this PTP inhibitor bypassed the Cr(VI)-induced G(1)/S checkpoint arrest in diploid human lung fibroblasts (HLF). Moreover, the PTP inhibitor abrogated the Cr(VI)-induced decrease in the expression of key effectors of the G(1)/S checkpoint [Cyclin D1, phospho Ser 807/811 Rb (pRB), p27]. Cr(VI)-induced G(1) arrest was associated with the cytoplasmic appearance of pRb and the nuclear localization of p27, both of which were reversed by the PTP inhibitor. The PTP inhibitor's reversal of G(1)/S checkpoint effector localization after Cr exposure was found to be Akt1-dependent, as this was abrogated by transfection with either akt1 siRNA or an Akt1-kinase dead plasmid. Furthermore, Akt1 activation alone was sufficient to induce G(1)/S checkpoint bypass and to prevent Cr(VI)-induced changes in pRb and p27 localization. In conclusion, this work establishes Akt1 activation to be both sufficient to bypass the Cr(VI)-induced G(1)/S checkpoint, as well as necessary for the observed PTP inhibitor effects on key mediators of the G(1)/S transition. The potential for Akt to bypass G(1)/S checkpoint arrest in the face of genotoxic damage could increase genomic instability, which is a hallmark of neoplastic progression.

Dissecting GLUT4 traffic components in L6 myocytes by fluorescence-based, single-cell assays

Postprandial blood glucose homeostasis is regulated by an insulin-stimulated increase in glucose transport into muscle and fat tissues via glucose transporter isoform 4 (GLUT4). In the basal state, this constitutively recycling membrane protein predominantly resides intracellularly. In order to achieve the insulin-stimulated increase in glucose flux, GLUT4 increases its cell surface abundance at the expense of preformed intracellular depots. By confocal microscopy of cultured L6 muscle cells stably expressing myc-tagged GLUT4 (L6-GLUT4myc), we can visualize the two arms of GLUT4 traffic: exocytosis (movement to the cell surface) and endocytosis (internalization from the cell surface).

The measurement of GLUT4 translocation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is one of the fastest growing threats to human health in westernised and developing countries and is associated with central obesity, atherosclerosis, dyslipidaemia, hyperinsulinaemia and hypertension. Insulin resistance, defined as a diminished response to ordinary levels of circulating insulin in one or more peripheral tissues, is an integral feature of T2D pathophysiology. This includes an impairment of insulin to inhibit hepatic glucose output and to stimulate glucose disposal into muscle and fat. While insulin is responsible for a number of specific biological responses, stimulation of glucose transport is critical for the maintenance of glucose homeostasis. The primary mechanism for insulin stimulation of glucose uptake into muscle and fat is the translocation of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) to the cell surface from intracellular storage vesicles within the cell. A major advantage in focussing on insulin regulation of glucose transport is that this represents the endpoint of multiple upstream signalling pathways. This chapter describes the measurement of GLUT4 translocation in cultured cells and its potential application for both mechanistic and therapeutic studies.

Bypass of hexavalent chromium-induced growth arrest by a protein tyrosine phosphatase inhibitor: enhanced survival and mutagenesis

Although the consequences of genotoxic injury include cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, cell survival responses after genotoxic injury can produce intrinsic death-resistance and contribute to the development of a transformed phenotype. Protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) are integral components of key survival pathways, and are responsible for their inactivation, while PTP inhibition is often associated with enhanced cell proliferation. Our aim was to elucidate signaling events that modulate cell survival after genotoxin exposure. Diploid human lung fibroblasts (HLF) were treated with Cr(VI) (as Na(2)CrO(4)), the soluble oxyanionic dissolution product of certain particulate chromates, which are well-documented human respiratory carcinogens. In vitro soluble Cr(VI) induces a wide spectrum of DNA damage, in both the presence and absence of a broad-range PTP inhibitor, sodium orthovanadate (SOV). Notably, SOV abrogated Cr(VI)-induced clonogenic lethality. The enhanced survival of Cr(VI)-exposed cells after SOV treatment was predominantly due to a bypass of cell cycle arrest, as there was no effect of the PTP inhibitor on Cr-induced apoptosis. Moreover, the SOV effect was not due to decreased Cr uptake as evidenced by unchanged Cr-DNA adduct burden. Additionally, the bypass of Cr-induced growth arrest by SOV was accompanied by a decrease in Cr(VI)-induced expression of cell cycle inhibiting genes, and an increase in Cr(VI)-induced expression of cell cycle promoting genes. Importantly, SOV resulted in an increase in forward mutations at the HPRT locus, supporting the hypothesis that PTP inhibition in the presence of certain types of DNA damage may lead to increased genomic instability, via bypass of cell cycle checkpoints.

GLUT4 vesicle recruitment and fusion are differentially regulated by Rac, AS160, and Rab8A in muscle cells

Insulin increases glucose uptake into muscle by enhancing the surface recycling of GLUT4 transporters. In myoblasts, insulin signals bifurcate downstream of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase into separate Akt and Rac/actin arms. Akt-mediated Rab-GAP AS160 phosphorylation and Rac/actin are required for net insulin gain of GLUT4, but the specific steps (vesicle recruitment, docking or fusion) regulated by Rac, actin dynamics, and AS160 target Rab8A are unknown. In L6 myoblasts expressing GLUT4myc, blocking vesicle fusion by tetanus toxin cleavage of VAMP2 impeded GLUT4myc membrane insertion without diminishing its build-up at the cell periphery. Conversely, actin disruption by dominant negative Rac or Latrunculin B abolished insulin-induced surface and submembrane GLUT4myc accumulation. Expression of non-phosphorylatable AS160 (AS160-4P) abrogated membrane insertion of GLUT4myc and partially reduced its cortical build-up, an effect magnified by selective Rab8A knockdown. We propose that insulin-induced actin dynamics participates in GLUT4myc vesicle retention beneath the membrane, whereas AS160 phosphorylation is essential for GLUT4myc vesicle-membrane docking/fusion and also contributes to GLUT4myc cortical availability through Rab8A.

Alpha-actinin-4 is selectively required for insulin-induced GLUT4 translocation

Insulin induces GLUT4 translocation to the muscle cell surface. Using differential amino acid labeling and mass spectrometry, we observed insulin-dependent co-precipitation of actinin-4 (ACTN4) with GLUT4 (Foster, L. J., Rudich, A., Talior, I., Patel, N., Huang, X., Furtado, L. M., Bilan, P. J., Mann, M., and Klip, A. (2006) J. Proteome Res. 5, 64-75). ACTN4 links F-actin to membrane proteins, and actin dynamics are essential for GLUT4 translocation. We hypothesized that ACTN4 may contribute to insulin-regulated GLUT4 traffic. In L6 muscle cells insulin, but not platelet-derived growth factor, increased co-precipitation of ACTN4 with GLUT4. Small interfering RNA-mediated ACTN4 knockdown abolished the gain in surface-exposed GLUT4 elicited by insulin but not by platelet-derived growth factor, membrane depolarization, or mitochondrial uncoupling. In contrast, knockdown of alpha-actinin-1 (ACTN1) did not prevent GLUT4 translocation by insulin. GLUT4 colocalized with ACTN4 along the insulin-induced cortical actin mesh and ACTN4 knockdown prevented GLUT4-actin colocalization without impeding actin remodeling or Akt phosphorylation, maintaining GLUT4 in a tight perinuclear location. We propose that ACTN4 contributes to GLUT4 traffic, likely by tethering GLUT4 vesicles to the cortical actin cytoskeleton.

Clathrin-dependent and independent endocytosis of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) in myoblasts: regulation by mitochondrial uncoupling

In myocytes and adipocytes, insulin increases glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) exocytosis by promoting GLUT4 vesicle docking/fusion with the membrane. Less is known about the mechanism and regulation of GLUT4 endocytosis, particularly in myocytes. Here, we show that GLUT4 internalization in L6 myoblasts was inhibited in part by hypertonicity or clathrin heavy chain knockdown and in part by cholesterol depletion. Both strategies had additive effects, abolishing GLUT4 endocytosis. GLUT4 internalization was abrogated by expressing dominant-negative dynamin-2 but unaffected by inhibiting caveolar-dependent endocytosis through syntaxin-6 knockdown or caveolin mutants (which reduced lactosylceramide endocytosis). Insulin did not affect GLUT4 internalization rate or sensitivity to clathrin or cholesterol depletion. In contrast, the mitochondrial uncoupler dinitrophenol (DNP), which like insulin increases surface GLUT4, reduced GLUT4 (but not transferrin) internalization, an effect additive to that of depleting clathrin but not cholesterol. Trout GLUT4 (a natural variant of GLUT4 bearing different endocytic motifs) exogenously expressed in mammalian L6 cells internalized only through the cholesterol-dependent route that also included the non-clathrin-dependent cargo interleukin-2 receptor beta, and DNP reduced internalization of both proteins. These results suggest that in muscle cells, GLUT4 internalizes simultaneously through clathrin-mediated endocytosis and a caveolae-independent but cholesterol- and dynamin-dependent route. Manipulating GLUT4 endocytosis to maintain surface GLUT4 may bypass insulin resistance.

Study of glucose uptake in adipose cells

Glucose is the main metabolic fuel in mammalian cells. Glucose entry into cells is facilitated by a family of ubiquitously expressed glucose transporter proteins. Typically, glucose transporters are localized on the plasma membrane. One notable exception is the glucose transporter isoform 4 (Glut4), which is specifically expressed in insulin sensitive tissues, i.e., skeletal muscle, heart muscle, and fat, and is responsible for the insulin effect on blood glucose clearance (1). Under basal conditions, Glut4 is compartmentalized in intracellular membrane vesicles and thus has no access to the extracellular space. Upon insulin administration, Glut4-containing vesicles fuse with the plasma membrane and deliver the transporter to its site of action. As a result, Glut4 content on the plasma membrane is increased, and glucose uptake in the cell is significantly elevated. Here, we describe two complementary techniques. The first one uses tritiated 2-deoxyglucose and is designed to measure insulin-stimulated glucose transport into cultured adipose cells. The second allows one to quantify the degree of Glut4 translocation from an intracellular compartment to the plasma membrane.

Mass spectral comparison of the neuropeptide complement of the stomatogastric ganglion and brain in the adult and embryonic lobster, Homarus americanus

Neuropeptides in the stomatogastric ganglion (STG) and the brain of adult and late embryonic Homarus americanus were compared using a multi-faceted mass spectral strategy. Overall, 29 neuropeptides from 10 families were identified in the brain and/or the STG of the lobster. Many of these neuropeptides are reported for the first time in the embryonic lobster. Neuropeptide extraction followed by liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry enabled confident identification of 24 previously characterized peptides in the adult brain and 13 peptides in the embryonic brain. Two novel peptides (QDLDHVFLRFa and GPPSLRLRFa) were de novo sequenced. In addition, a comparison of adult to embryonic brains revealed the presence of an incompletely processed form of Cancer borealis tachykinin-related peptide 1a (CabTRP 1a, APSGFLGMRG) only in the embryonic brain. A comparison of adult to embryonic STGs revealed that QDLDHVFLRFa was present in the embryonic STG but absent in the adult STG, and CabTRP 1a exhibited the opposite trend. Relative quantification of neuropeptides in the STG revealed that three orcokinin family peptides (NFDEIDRSGFGF, NFDEIDRSGFGFV, and NFDEIDRSGFGFN), a B-type allatostatin (STNWSSLRSAWa), and an orcomyotropin-related peptide (FDAFTTGFGHS) exhibited higher signal intensities in the adult relative to the embryonic STG. RFamide (Arg-Phe-amide) family peptide (DTSTPALRLRFa), [Val(1)]SIFamide (VYRKPPFNGSIFa), and orcokinin-related peptide (VYGPRDIANLY) were more intense in the embryonic STG spectra than in the adult STG spectra. Collectively, this study expands our current knowledge of the H. americanus neuropeptidome and highlights some intriguing expression differences that occur during development.

Cyclooxygenase-2 induction requires activation of nuclear factor of activated T-cells in Beas-2B cells after vanadium exposure and plays an anti-apoptotic role

Vanadium, a potent toxic agent and carcinogen, is widely used in industry. Evidences show that exposure to vanadium is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer. But the mechanisms involved are far from fully understood. In this present study, we investigated that exposure of human bronchial epithelial cells (Beas-2B) to vanadium pentoxide resulted in an obvious induction of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression and this induction was both dose- and time-dependent. Exposure of Beas-2B cells to vanadium pentoxide also led to significant activation of nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT) on a time- and dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, we found that inhibition of NFAT by dominant negative mutant of NFAT (DN-NFAT) resulted in a dramatic inhibition of COX-2 expression induced by vanadium pentoxide, showing that NFAT activation was required for COX-2 induction by vanadium pentoxide in Beas-2B cells. Moreover, knockdown of COX-2 expression by COX-2-specific small interference RNA and blockage of NFAT pathway by DN-NFAT and NFAT3 small interference RNA showed an increased cell apoptosis in Beas-2B on vanadium exposure. Together, our results demonstrated that COX-2 expression could be induced by vanadium pentoxide in NFAT-dependent way and played an anti-apoptotic role in Beas-2B cells. From the results, we anticipate that the carcinogenesis of vanadium to human bronchial cells may result from anti-apoptosis mediated by the NFAT-dependent induction of COX-2, and we also assume that either pro-apoptotic or anti-apoptotic effect in certain type of cells after vanadium exposure may depend on the level of COX-2 induction.

Insulin sensitivity and inhibition by forskolin, dipyridamole and pentobarbital of glucose transport in three L6 muscle cell lines

L6 skeletal muscle myoblasts stably overexpressing glucose transporter GLUT1 or GLUT4 with exofacial myc-epitope tags were characterized for their response to insulin. In clonally selected cultures, 2-deoxyglucose uptake into L6-GLUT1myc myoblasts and myotubes was linear within the time of study. In L6-GLUT1myc and L6-GLUT4myc myoblasts, 100 nmol/L insulin treatment increased the GLUT1 content of the plasma membrane by 1.58+/-0.01 fold and the GLUT4 content 1.96+/-0.11 fold, as well as the 2-deoxyglucose uptake 1.53+/-0.09 and 1.86+/-0.17 fold respectively, all by a wortmannin-inhibitable manner. The phosphorylation of Akt in these two cell lines was increased by insulin. L6-GLUT1myc myoblasts showed a dose-dependent stimulation of glucose uptake by insulin, with unaltered sensitivity and maximal responsiveness compared with wild type cells. By contrast, the improved insulin responsiveness and sensitivity of glucose uptake were observed in L6-GLUT4myc myoblasts. Earlier studies indicated that forskolin might affect insulin-stimulated GLUT4 translocation. A 65% decrease of insulin-stimulated 2-deoxyglucose uptake in GLUT4myc cells was not due to an effect on GLUT4 mobilization to the plasma membrane, but instead on direct inhibition of GLUT4. Forskolin and dipyridamole are more potent inhibitors of GLUT4 than GLUT1. Alternatively, pentobarbital inhibits GLUT1 more than GLUT4. The use of these inhibitors confirmed that the overexpressed GLUT1 or GLUT4 are the major functional glucose transporters in unstimulated and insulin-stimulated L6 myoblasts. Therefore, L6-GLUT1myc and L6-GLUT4myc cells provide a platform to screen compounds that may have differential effects on GLUT isoform activity or may influence GLUT isoform mobilization to the cell surface of muscle cells.

Protein tyrosine dephosphorylation during copper-induced cell death in rice roots

Early signalling events that control the process of heavy metal-induced cell death are largely unknown in plants. In mammals protein tyrosine phosphorylation plays an important role in the activation of programmed cell death. We thus examined the involvement of tyrosine phosphorylation in Cu-induced rice cell death. This investigation demonstrates that Cu induces cell death and DNA fragmentation in rice root cells. In the presence of Cu, the level of phosphotyrosine accumulation declined in the band of 45 kDa, p45. To analyze the role of tyrosine dephosphorylation for the regulation of Cu-induced cell death more precisely, we increased levels of tyrosine phosphorylation using the protein tyrosine phosphatase inhibitor, sodium orthovanadate (Na(3)VO(4)). Treatment of rice roots with Na(3)VO(4) blocked Cu-induced cell death and protein tyrosine dephosphorylation. In addition, the antioxidant GSH and the calcium chelator EGTA significantly abolished Cu-induced cell death and protein tyrosine dephosphorylation. These results provide evidence that dephosphorylation of a tyrosine-phosphorylated protein, p45, is an important step in the Cu-triggered signalling transduction pathway.

Adhesion molecules in chronic ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The adhesion molecule expression in colonic mucosa is pivotal for transition from quiescent to active stage of ulcerative colitis (UC). The aim of the present study is to reveal the adhesion molecule profile of colonic mucosa in the active stage of UC and in remission.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Biopsy specimens obtained from 14 patients with UC (seven with active disease and seven with UC in remission) and from seven controls were used. Immunohistochemistry was performed with antibodies against ICAM-1, VCAM-1, E-selectin, LFA-1, Mac-1, and VLA-4.

RESULTS

In controls, slight ICAM-1 positivity was observed on thety endothelium of blood vessels of the mucosal and submucosal layer and only single ICAM-1-, Mac-1-, and LFA-1-positive cells were found. In all patients with UC, the endothelium of venules in the edematous mucosal and submucosal layers was ICAM-1-, VCAM-1-, and E-selectin-positive. Numerous ICAM-1- and LFA-1-positive and less VCAM-1-, Mac-1-, and VLA-4-positive inflammatory cells were detected in mucous layers of acute UC. In specimens of UC in remission, the inflammatory cells positive for the studied adhesion molecules were significantly less in number in the mucosa and submucosa (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the increased expression of ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and their ligands LFA-1 and VLA-4 in patients with UC, we can conclude that these adhesion molecules play a key role in the adherence of lymphocytes and macrophages to endothelial cells maintaining the chronic inflammation. Presence of E-selectin on endothelial cells of venules could be a sign of relapse after remission in UC.

Local administration of WIN 55,212-2 reduces chronic granuloma-associated angiogenesis in rat by inhibiting NF-κB activation

Chronic inflammation is often associated with granuloma formation that is a hallmark of many human diseases. The transcription factor nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappaB) plays a central role in this process by regulating the expression of several pro-inflammatory genes. Cannabinoids (CBs) from Cannabis sativa L. exert a large number of biological effects including anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic effects. In this study, we investigated the role of CBs on granuloma formation induced by lambda-carrageenin-soaked sponge implant in rat. Our results show that local administration of WIN 55,212-2, a CB(1)/CB(2) agonist, given daily or at time of implantation significantly decreased weight and neo-angiogenesis in granuloma tissue and inhibited nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappaB)/DNA binding that was associated with a reduced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression. Also, arachidonyl-2-chloroethylamide (ACEA), a CB(1) selective agonist, and JWH-015, a CB(2) selective agonist, exhibited the same effects that were reversed by SR141716-A and SR144528, respectively, CB(1) and CB(2) selective antagonists. These results indicate that CBs given locally may represent a potential therapeutic tool in controlling chronic inflammation avoiding psychotropic effects.

Leukocyte-derived inducible nitric oxide synthase mediates murine postoperative ileus

OBJECTIVE

To provide evidence that iNOS expression solely in leukocytes plays a role in postoperative ileus.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Intestinal handling initiates a molecular and cellular muscularis inflammation that has been associated with iNOS expression and ileus. The specific cellular source of iNOS is a matter of speculation.

METHODS

Chimeric mice were constructed that selectively express the iNOS gene only in their leukocytes or only in their parenchymal cells by lethal radiation and reconstitution with reciprocal bone marrow. Mild intestinal manipulation was used to induce postoperative ileus.

RESULTS

Intestinal manipulation caused a significant leukocyte extravasation into the muscularis of all groups. Postoperative iNOS mRNA expression was evident in iNOS and transplanted iNOS mice with iNOS bone marrow but not in iNOS animals. The loss of the iNOS gene in leukocytes of iNOS mice reduced iNOS mRNA expression by 59%. iNOS-deficient mice and iNOS animals with iNOS leukocytes presented with a significant improvement in postoperative intestinal transit and in vitro smooth muscle contractility, whereas the replacement with iNOS bone marrow in iNOS mice completely reversed this improvement.

CONCLUSION

These results clearly show that iNOS expressed in leukocytes within the intestinal muscularis plays a major role in mediating smooth muscle dysfunction and subsequently postoperative ileus.

Effects of curcumin on reflux esophagitis in rats

The preventive effect of curcumin, a compound isolated from the rhizome of Curcuma longa, on experimental reflux esophagitis in rats was investigated in order to validate its potential therapeutic use for gastroesophageal reflux disease. Curcumin (20 mg/kg, i.d.), the antioxidative agent dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) (1 ml/kg, i.p.) or the proton pump inhibitor lansoprazole (1 mg/kg, i.d.) inhibited the formation of acute acid reflux esophagitis by 52.5, 61.5 and 70.9% respectively. Curcumin alone was not effective in preventing chronic acid reflux esophagitis, but the combination of curcumin and DMSO reduced the mortality rate and the severity of the esophagitis ulcer index to the same extent (56.5%) as did the lansoprazole (53.9%). Intraduodenal administration of curcumin also markedly prevented the formation of acute mixed reflux esophagitis, together with reducing the incidence or the severity of neutrophil infiltration, when compared to a control group. In contrast, lansoprazole tended to increase the severity of all histopathological changes, when compared to either the control or the curcumin-treated group. Aminoguanidine, a specific inducible nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, had no preventive effect against both types of acute reflux esophagitis models, and increased the mortality in the chronic acid reflux esophagitis model. From these results, it is indicated that curcumin can effectively prevent acute reflux esophagitis formation. Although curcumin is less potent than lansoprazole in inhibiting acid reflux esophagitis, it is superior to lansoprazole in inhibiting mixed reflux esophagitis. The antiulcerogenic mechanisms are considered to be closely associated with its antioxidant nature and antiinflammatory property.

Proteomic analysis of cellular change involved in mitochondria-to-nucleus communication in L6 GLUT4myc myocytes

Genetic or biochemical abnormalities in mitochondria are closely associated with apoptosis, aging, cancer, and other chronic degenerative diseases. Mitochondrial dysfunction resulting from mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) depletion dispatches retrograde signals to the nucleus to compensate by altering the expression of various genes. In this study, a proteomic approach was used to gain insight into the nuclear gene targets of mitochondrial stress signaling and the pathophysiological mechanisms associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. We have used 2-DE to characterize the nuclear gene responses resulting from mtDNA depletion in L6 GLUT4myc myocytes. Our results showed that 77 polypeptides were differentially expressed in mtDNA-depleted cells; 33 polypeptides were down-regulated and 44 polypeptides were up-regulated. Of these differentially expressed polypeptides, 40 were identified as 36 different proteins by MALDI-TOF MS. These proteins are related to various cellular responses, such as apoptosis, cellular metabolism, signaling and cytoskeleton functions. It is suggested that the insulin resistance developed in mtDNA-depleted myocytes may be associated with disorganization of cytoskeleton assembly, and that cellular mtDNA depletion might promote the ability to evade apoptosis or other death effectors.

Insulin regulates the membrane arrival, fusion, and C-terminal unmasking of glucose transporter-4 via distinct phosphoinositides

Insulin increases glucose uptake into muscle via glucose transporter-4 (GLUT4) translocation to the cell membrane, but the regulated events in GLUT4 traffic are unknown. Here we focus on the role of class IA phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase and specific phosphoinositides in the steps of GLUT4 arrival and fusion with the membrane, using L6 muscle cells expressing GLUT4myc. To this end, we detected the availability of the myc epitope at the cell surface or intravesicular spaces and of the cytosol-facing C-terminal epitope, in cells and membrane lawns derived from them. We observed the following: (a) Wortmannin and LY294002 at concentrations that inhibit class IA PI 3-kinase reduced but did not abate the C terminus gain, yet the myc epitope was unavailable for detection unless lawns or cells were permeabilized, suggesting the presence of GLUT4myc in docked, unfused vesicles. Accordingly, GLUT4myc-containing vesicles were detected by immunoelectron microscopy of membranes from cells pretreated with wortmannin and insulin, but not insulin or wortmannin alone. (b) Insulin caused greater immunological availability of the C terminus than myc epitopes, suggesting that C terminus unmasking had occurred. Delivering phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PI(3,4,5)P(3)) to intact cells significantly increased lawn-associated myc signal without C terminus gain. Conversely, phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PI3P) increased the detection of C terminus epitope without any myc gain. We propose that insulin regulates GLUT4 membrane arrival, fusion, and C terminus unmasking, through distinct phosphoinositides. PI(3,4,5)P(3) causes arrival and fusion without unmasking, whereas PI3P causes arrival and unmasking without fusion.

FGF-21 as a novel metabolic regulator

Diabetes mellitus is a major health concern, affecting more than 5% of the population. Here we describe a potential novel therapeutic agent for this disease, FGF-21, which was discovered to be a potent regulator of glucose uptake in mouse 3T3-L1 and primary human adipocytes. FGF-21-transgenic mice were viable and resistant to diet-induced obesity. Therapeutic administration of FGF-21 reduced plasma glucose and triglycerides to near normal levels in both ob/ob and db/db mice. These effects persisted for at least 24 hours following the cessation of FGF-21 administration. Importantly, FGF-21 did not induce mitogenicity, hypoglycemia, or weight gain at any dose tested in diabetic or healthy animals or when overexpressed in transgenic mice. Thus, we conclude that FGF-21, which we have identified as a novel metabolic factor, exhibits the therapeutic characteristics necessary for an effective treatment of diabetes.

Differential contribution of insulin receptor substrates 1 versus 2 to insulin signaling and glucose uptake in l6 myotubes

Insulin receptor substrates-1 and 2 (IRS-1 and IRS-2) are pivotal in relaying insulin signaling in insulin-responsive tissues such as muscle. However, the precise contribution of IRS-1 vis-a-vis IRS-2 in insulin-mediated metabolic and mitogenic responses has not been compared directly in differentiated muscle cells. This study aimed to determine the relative contribution of IRS-1 versus IRS-2 in these responses, using small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated specific gene silencing. In L6 myotubes, transfection of siRNA targeted specifically against IRS-1 (siIRS-1) or IRS-2 (siIRS-2) reduced the cognate protein expression by 70-75%. Insulin-induced ERK phosphorylation was much more sensitive to IRS-2 than IRS-1 ablation, whereas p38MAPK phosphorylation was reduced by 43 or 62% in myotubes treated with siIRS-1 or siIRS-2, respectively. Insulin-induced Akt1 and Akt2 phosphorylation was reduced in myotubes treated with siIRS-1, but only Akt2 phosphorylation was reduced in myotubes treated with siIRS-2. In contrast, siIRS-1 treatment caused a marked reduction in insulin-induced actin remodeling, glucose uptake, and GLUT4 translocation, and siIRS-2 was without effect on these responses. Notably, combined siIRS-1 and siIRS-2, although reducing each IRS by around 75%, caused no further drop in glucose uptake than that achieved with siIRS-1 alone, but abolished p38MAPK phosphorylation. We conclude that insulin-stimulated Akt1 phosphorylation, actin remodeling, GLUT4 translocation, and glucose uptake are regulated mainly by IRS-1, whereas IRS-2 contributes selectively to ERK signaling, and Akt2 and p38MAPK lie downstream of both IRS in muscle cells.

Carnosol Inhibits -Catenin Tyrosine Phosphorylation and Prevents Adenoma Formation in the C57BL/6J/Min/+ (Min/+) Mouse

Carnosol, a constituent of the herb, rosemary, has shown beneficial medicinal and antitumor effects. Using the C57BL/6J/Min/+ (Min/+) mouse, a model of colonic tumorigenesis, we found that dietary administration of 0.1% carnosol decreased intestinal tumor multiplicity by 46%. Previous studies showed that tumor formation in the Min/+ mouse was associated with alterations in the adherens junctions, including an increased expression of tyrosine-phosphorylated β-catenin, dissociation of β-catenin from E-cadherin, and strongly reduced amounts of E-cadherin located at lateral plasma membranes of histologically normal enterocytes. Here, we confirm these findings and show that treatment of Min/+ intestinal tissue with carnosol restored both E-cadherin and β-catenin to these enterocyte membranes, yielding a phenotype similar to that of the Apc+/+ wild-type (WT) littermate. Moreover, treatment of WT intestine with the phosphatase inhibitor, pervanadate, removed E-cadherin and β-catenin from the lateral membranes of enterocytes, mimicking the appearance of the Min/+ tissue. Pretreatment of WT tissue with carnosol inhibited the pervanadate-inducible expression of tyrosine-phosphorylated β-catenin. Thus, the ApcMin allele produces adhesion defects that involve up-regulated expression of tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins, including β-catenin. Moreover, these data suggest that carnosol prevents Apc-associated intestinal tumorigenesis, potentially via its ability to enhance E-cadherin-mediated adhesion and suppress β-catenin tyrosine phosphorylation.

The Epstein-Barr virus protein BMRF1 activates gastrin transcription

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) BMRF1 gene encodes an early lytic protein that functions not only as the viral DNA polymerase processivity factor but also as a transcriptional activator. BMRF1 has been previously shown to activate transcription of an EBV early promoter, BHLF1, though a GC-rich motif which binds to SP1 and ZBP-89, although the exact mechanism for this effect is not known (D. J. Law, S. A. Tarle, and J. L. Merchant, Mamm. Genome 9:165-167, 1998). Here we demonstrate that BMRF1 activates transcription of the cellular gastrin gene in telomerase-immortalized keratinocytes. Furthermore, BMRF1 activated a reporter gene construct driven by the gastrin promoter in a variety of cell types, and this effect was mediated by two SP1/ZBP-89 binding sites in the gastrin promoter. ZBP-89 has been previously shown to negatively regulate the gastrin promoter. However, ZBP-89 can function as either a negative or positive regulator of transcription, depending upon the promoter and perhaps other, as-yet-unidentified factors. BMRF1 increased the binding of ZBP-89 to the gastrin promoter, and a ZBP-89-GAL4 fusion protein was converted into a positive transcriptional regulator by cotransfection with BMRF1. BMRF1 also enhanced the transcriptional activity of an SP1-GAL4 fusion protein. These results suggest that BMRF1 activates target promoters through its effect on both the SP1 and ZBP-89 transcription factors. Furthermore, as the EBV genome is present in up to 10% of gastric cancers, and the different forms of gastrin are growth factors for gastrointestinal epithelium, our results suggest a mechanism by which lytic EBV infection could promote the growth of gastric cells.

Depletion of mitochondrial DNA causes impaired glucose utilization and insulin resistance in L6 GLUT4myc myocytes

Mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to a number of human diseases, such as hyperlipidemia, obesity, and diabetes. The mutation and reduction of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) have been suggested as factors in the pathogenesis of diabetes. To elucidate the association of cellular mtDNA content and insulin resistance, we produced L6 GLUT4myc myocytes depleted of mtDNA by long term treatment with ethidium bromide. L6 GLUT4myc cells cultured with 0.2 mug/ml ethidium bromide (termed depleted cells) revealed a marked decrease in cellular mtDNA and ATP content, concomitant with a lack of mRNAs encoded by mtDNA. Interestingly, the mtDNA-depleted cells showed a drastic decrease in basal and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, indicating that L6 GLUT4myc cells develop impaired glucose utilization and insulin resistance. The repletion of mtDNA normalized basal and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. The mRNA level and expression of insulin receptor substrate (IRS)-1 associated with insulin signaling were decreased by 76 and 90% in the depleted cells, respectively. The plasma membrane (PM) GLUT4 in the basal state was decreased, and the insulin-stimulated GLUT4 translocation to the PM was drastically reduced by mtDNA depletion. Moreover, insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of IRS-1 and Akt2/protein kinase B were drastically reduced in the depleted cells. Those changes returned to control levels after mtDNA repletion. Taken together, our data suggest that PM GLUT4 content and insulin signal pathway intermediates are modulated by the alteration of cellular mtDNA content, and the reductions in the expression of IRS-1 and insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of IRS-1 and Akt2/protein kinase B are associated with insulin resistance in the mtDNA-depleted L6 GLUT4myc myocytes.

Intracellular delivery of phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)-trisphosphate causes incorporation of glucose transporter 4 into the plasma membrane of muscle and fat cells without increasing glucose uptake

Insulin stimulates glucose uptake into muscle and fat cells by translocating glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) to the cell surface, with input from phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase and its downstream effector Akt/protein kinase B. Whether PI 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PI(3,4,5)P(3)) suffices to produce GLUT4 translocation is unknown. We used two strategies to deliver PI(3,4,5)P(3) intracellularly and two insulin-sensitive cell lines to examine Akt activation and GLUT4 translocation. In 3T3-L1 adipocytes, the acetoxymethyl ester of PI(3,4,5)P(3) caused GLUT4 migration to the cell periphery and increased the amount of plasma membrane-associated phospho-Akt and GLUT4. Intracellular delivery of PI(3,4,5)P(3) using polyamine carriers also induced translocation of myc-tagged GLUT4 to the surface of intact L6 myoblasts, demonstrating membrane insertion of the transporter. GLUT4 translocation caused by carrier-delivered PI(3,4,5)P(3) was not reproduced by carrier-PI 4,5-bisphosphate or carrier alone. Like insulin, carrier-mediated delivery of PI(3,4,5)P(3) elicited redistribution of perinuclear GLUT4 and Akt phosphorylation at the cell periphery. In contrast to its effect on GLUT4 mobilization, delivered PI(3,4,5)P(3) did not increase 2-deoxyglucose uptake in either L6GLUT4myc myoblasts or 3T3-L1 adipocytes. The ability of exogenously delivered PI(3,4,5)P(3) to augment plasma membrane GLUT4 content without increasing glucose uptake suggests that input at the level of PI 3-kinase suffices for GLUT4 translocation but is insufficient to stimulate glucose transport.

Intracellular segregation of phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate by insulin-dependent actin remodeling in L6 skeletal muscle cells

Insulin stimulates glucose uptake by recruiting glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) from an intracellular pool to the cell surface through a mechanism that is dependent on phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase (PI3-K) and cortical actin remodeling. Here we test the hypothesis that insulin-dependent actin filament remodeling determines the location of insulin signaling molecules. It has been shown previously that insulin treatment of L6 myotubes leads to a rapid rearrangement of actin filaments into submembrane structures where the p85 regulatory subunit of PI3-K and organelles containing GLUT4, VAMP2, and the insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) colocalize. We now report that insulin receptor substrate-1 and the p110alpha catalytic subunit of PI3-K (but not p110beta) also colocalize with the actin structures. Akt-1 was also found in the remodeled actin structures, unlike another PI3-K effector, atypical protein kinase C lambda. Transiently transfected green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged pleckstrin homology (PH) domains of general receptor for phosphoinositides-1 (GRP1) or Akt (ligands of phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate [PI-3,4,5-P(3)]) migrated to the periphery of the live cells; in fixed cells, they were detected in the insulin-induced actin structures. These results suggest that PI-3,4,5-P(3) is generated on membranes located within the actin mesh. Actin remodeling and GLUT4 externalization were blocked in cells highly expressing GFP-PH-GRP1, suggesting that PI-3,4,5-P(3) is required for both phenomena. We propose that PI-3,4,5-P(3) leads to actin remodeling, which in turn segregates p85alpha and p110alpha, thus localizing PI-3,4,5-P(3) production on membranes trapped by the actin mesh. Insulin-stimulated actin remodeling may spatially coordinate the localized generation of PI-3,4,5-P(3) and recruitment of Akt, ultimately leading to GLUT4 insertion at the plasma membrane.

Maturation of the regulation of GLUT4 activity by p38 MAPK during L6 cell myogenesis

Insulin stimulates glucose uptake in skeletal muscle cells and fat cells by promoting the rapid translocation of GLUT4 glucose transporters to the plasma membrane. Recent work from our laboratory supports the concept that insulin also stimulates the intrinsic activity of GLUT4 through a signaling pathway that includes p38 MAPK. Here we show that regulation of GLUT4 activity by insulin develops during maturation of skeletal muscle cells into myotubes in concert with the ability of insulin to stimulate p38 MAPK. In L6 myotubes expressing GLUT4 that carries an exofacial myc-epitope (L6-GLUT4myc), insulin-stimulated GLUT4myc translocation equals in magnitude the glucose uptake response. Inhibition of p38 MAPK with SB203580 reduces insulin-stimulated glucose uptake without affecting GLUT4myc translocation. In contrast, in myoblasts, the magnitude of insulin-stimulated glucose uptake is significantly lower than that of GLUT4myc translocation and is insensitive to SB203580. Activation of p38 MAPK by insulin is considerably higher in myotubes than in myoblasts, as is the activation of upstream kinases MKK3/MKK6. In contrast, the activation of all three Akt isoforms and GLUT4 translocation are similar in myoblasts and myotubes. Furthermore, GLUT4myc translocation and phosphorylation of regulatory sites on Akt in L6-GLUT4myc myotubes are equally sensitive to insulin, whereas glucose uptake and phosphorylation of regulatory sites on p38 MAPK show lower sensitivity to the hormone. These observations draw additional parallels between Akt and GLUT4 translocation and between p38 MAPK and GLUT4 activation. Regulation of GLUT4 activity by insulin develops upon muscle cell differentiation and correlates with p38 MAPK activation by insulin.

Indinavir uncovers different contributions of GLUT4 and GLUT1 towards glucose uptake in muscle and fat cells and tissues

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Insulin-dependent glucose influx in skeletal muscle and adipocytes is believed to rely largely on GLUT4, but this has not been confirmed directly. We assessed the relative functional contribution of GLUT4 in experimental models of skeletal muscle and adipocytes using the HIV-1 protease inhibitor indinavir.

METHODS

Indinavir (up to 100 micro mol/l) was added to the glucose transport solution after insulin stimulation of wild-type L6 muscle cells, L6 cells over-expressing either GLUT4myc or GLUT1myc, 3T3-L1 adipocytes, isolated mouse brown or white adipocytes, and isolated mouse muscle preparations.

RESULTS

100 micro mol/l indinavir inhibited 80% of both basal and insulin-stimulated 2-deoxyglucose uptake in L6GLUT4myc myotubes and myoblasts, but only 25% in L6GLUT1myc cells. Cell-surface density of glucose transporters was not affected. In isolated soleus and extensor digitorum longus muscles, primary white and brown adipocytes, insulin-stimulated glucose uptake was inhibited 70 to 80% by indinavir. The effect of indinavir on glucose uptake was variable in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, averaging 45% and 67% inhibition of basal and maximally insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, respectively. In this cell, fractional inhibition of glucose uptake by indinavir correlated positively with the fold-stimulation of glucose uptake by insulin, and was higher with sub-maximal insulin concentrations. The latter finding coincided with an increase only in GLUT4, but not GLUT1, in plasma membrane lawns.

CONCLUSION/INTERPRETATION

Indinavir is a useful tool to assess different functional contributions of GLUT4 to glucose uptake in common models of skeletal muscle and adipocytes.

Activation of the glucose transporter GLUT4 by insulin

The transport of glucose into cells and tissues is a highly regulated process, mediated by a family of facilitative glucose transporters (GLUTs). Insulin-stimulated glucose uptake is primarily mediated by the transporter isoform GLUT4, which is predominantly expressed in mature skeletal muscle and fat tissues. Our recent work suggests that two separate pathways are initiated in response to insulin: (i) to recruit transporters to the cell surface from intracellular pools and (ii) to increase the intrinsic activity of the transporters. These pathways are differentially inhibited by wortmannin, demonstrating that the two pathways do not operate in series. Conversely, inhibitors of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) imply that p38 MAPK is involved only in the regulation of the pathway leading to the insulin-stimulated activation of GLUT4. This review discusses the evidence for the divergence of GLUT4 translocation and activity and proposed mechanisms for the regulation of GLUT4.

A dominant-negative p38 MAPK mutant and novel selective inhibitors of p38 MAPK reduce insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes without affecting GLUT4 translocation

Participation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38) in insulin-induced glucose uptake was suggested using pyridinylimidazole p38 inhibitors (e.g. SB203580). However, the role of p38 in insulin action remains controversial. We further test p38 participation in glucose uptake using a dominant-negative p38 mutant and two novel pharmacological p38 inhibitors related to but different from SB203580. We present the structures and activities of the azaazulene pharmacophores A291077 and A304000. p38 kinase activity was inhibited in vitro by A291077 and A304000 (IC(50) = 0.6 and 4.7 microm). At higher concentrations A291077 but not A304000 inhibited JNK2alpha (IC(50) = 3.5 microm). Pretreatment of 3T3-L1 adipocytes and L6 myotubes expressing GLUT4myc (L6-GLUT4myc myotubes) with A291077, A304000, SB202190, or SB203580 reduced insulin-stimulated glucose uptake by 50-60%, whereas chemical analogues inert toward p38 were ineffective. Expression of an inducible, dominant-negative p38 mutant in 3T3-L1 adipocytes reduced insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. GLUT4 translocation to the cell surface, immunodetected on plasma membrane lawns of 3T3-L1 adipocytes or on intact L6-GLUT4myc myotubes, was not altered by chemical or molecular inhibition of p38. We propose that p38 contributes to enhancing GLUT4 activity, thereby increasing glucose uptake. In addition, the azaazulene class of inhibitors described will be useful to decipher cellular actions of p38 and JNK.

The pleckstrin homology (PH) domain-interacting protein couples the insulin receptor substrate 1 PH domain to insulin signaling pathways leading to mitogenesis and GLUT4 translocation

Receptor-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation of the insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) is required for the propagation of many of insulin's biological effects. The amino-terminal pleckstrin homology (PH) domain of IRS-1 plays a pivotal role in promoting insulin receptor (IR)-IRS-1 protein interactions. We have recently reported the isolation of a PH domain-interacting protein, PHIP, which selectively binds to the IRS-1 PH domain and is stably associated with IRS-1 in mammalian cells. Here we demonstrate that overexpression of PHIP in fibroblasts enhances insulin-induced transcriptional responses in a mitogen-activated protein kinase-dependent manner. In contrast, a dominant-negative mutant of PHIP (DN-PHIP) was shown to specifically block transcriptional and mitogenic signals elicited by insulin and not serum. In order to examine whether PHIP/IRS-1 complexes participate in the signal transduction pathway linking the IR to GLUT4 traffic in muscle cells, L6 myoblasts stably expressing a myc-tagged GLUT4 construct (L6GLUT4myc) were transfected with either wild-type or dominant-interfering forms of PHIP. Whereas insulin-dependent GLUT4myc membrane translocation was not affected by overexpression of PHIP, DN-PHIP caused a nearly complete inhibition of GLUT4 translocation, in a manner identical to that observed with a dominant-negative mutant of the p85 subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (Deltap85). Furthermore, DN-PHIP markedly inhibited insulin-stimulated actin cytoskeletal reorganization, a process required for the productive incorporation of GLUT4 vesicles at the cell surface in L6 cells. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that PHIP represents a physiological protein ligand of the IRS-1 PH domain, which plays an important role in insulin receptor-mediated mitogenic and metabolic signal transduction.

Nitric oxide supplementation ameliorates dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice

Nitric oxide (NO) synthesis is up-regulated in inflammatory bowel disease. However, its role in the pathophysiology of this condition is controversial. The aims of this study were to assess whether nitric oxide administration ameliorates experimental colitis and to determine the possible mechanisms underlying its effects on intestinal inflammation. For this purpose, the NO donor diethylamine NONOate (DETA/NO; 0.01, 0.1, 1, 5, or 10 mg/kg/day), or the DETA moiety, was administered daily to mice with dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis. Daily body weight and colonic pathologic alterations at Day 10 were determined. Leukocyte endothelial cell interactions in colonic venules were assessed with intravital microscopy, and expression of endothelial cell adhesion molecules was determined using radiolabeled antibodies. IL-12 and IFN-gamma production were measured in intestinal tissue. Colitis induced a significant loss of body weight, reduction of colon length, and increase in colon weight and myeloperoxidase activity. Administration of 1 mg/kg/day DETA/NO significantly attenuated these pathologic changes. The marked increase in leukocyte rolling and adhesion in colonic venules of colitic mice were significantly reduced by administration of 1 mg/kg/day DETA/NO. Development of colitis was associated with a marked increase in endothelial expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, and P-selectin. Supplementation with NO significantly attenuated the up-regulation of endothelial intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and P-selectin, but not vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, in colonic tissue. NO abrogated the increase in IL-12 and IFN-gamma mRNA expression in the colon of colitic mice. The DETA moiety alone did not have any effect on any of the parameters studied. In conclusion, exogenous NO supplementation significantly ameliorates dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis. This effect is related to a reduction in leukocyte recruitment and proinflammatory cytokine production.