Vasopressin receptor-mediated functional signaling pathway in primary cilia of renal epithelial cells

Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate Signaling in Chronic Kidney Disease: Molecular Targets and Therapeutic Potentials

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by a steady decline in kidney function and affects roughly 10% of the world's population. This review focuses on the critical function of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signaling in CKD, specifically how it influences both protective and pathogenic processes in the kidney. cAMP, a critical secondary messenger, controls a variety of cellular functions, including transcription, metabolism, mitochondrial homeostasis, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. Its compartmentalization inside cellular microdomains ensures accurate signaling. In kidney physiology, cAMP is required for hormone-regulated activities, particularly in the collecting duct, where it promotes water reabsorption through vasopressin signaling. Several illnesses, including Fabry disease, renal cell carcinoma, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, Bartter syndrome, Liddle syndrome, diabetic nephropathy, autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, and renal tubular acidosis, have been linked to dysfunction in the cAMP system. Both cAMP analogs and phosphodiesterase inhibitors have the potential to improve kidney function and reduce kidney damage. Future research should focus on developing targeted PDE inhibitors for the treatment of CKD.

Convergence of Calcium Channel Regulation and Mechanotransduction in Skeletal Regenerative Biomaterial Design

Cells are known to perceive their microenvironment through extracellular and intracellular mechanical signals. Upon sensing mechanical stimuli, cells can initiate various downstream signaling pathways that are vital to regulating proliferation, growth, and homeostasis. One such physiologic activity modulated by mechanical stimuli is osteogenic differentiation. The process of osteogenic mechanotransduction is regulated by numerous calcium ion channels-including channels coupled to cilia, mechanosensitive and voltage-sensitive channels, and channels associated with the endoplasmic reticulum. Evidence suggests these channels are implicated in osteogenic pathways such as the YAP/TAZ and canonical Wnt pathways. This review aims to describe the involvement of calcium channels in regulating osteogenic differentiation in response to mechanical loading and characterize the fashion in which those channels directly or indirectly mediate this process. The mechanotransduction pathway is a promising target for the development of regenerative materials for clinical applications due to its independence from exogenous growth factor supplementation. As such, also described are examples of osteogenic biomaterial strategies that involve the discussed calcium ion channels, calcium-dependent cellular structures, or calcium ion-regulating cellular features. Understanding the distinct ways calcium channels and signaling regulate these processes may uncover potential targets for advancing biomaterials with regenerative osteogenic capabilities.

Compartmentalised cAMP signalling in the primary cilium

cAMP is a universal second messenger that relies on precise spatio-temporal regulation to control varied, and often opposing, cellular functions. This is achieved via selective activation of effectors embedded in multiprotein complexes, or signalosomes, that reside at distinct subcellular locations. cAMP is also one of many pathways known to operate within the primary cilium. Dysfunction of ciliary signaling leads to a class of diseases known as ciliopathies. In Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD), a ciliopathy characterized by the formation of fluid-filled kidney cysts, upregulation of cAMP signaling is known to drive cystogenesis. For decades it has been debated whether the primary cilium is an independent cAMP sub-compartment, or whether it shares a diffusible pool of cAMP with the cell body. Recent studies now suggest it is a specific pool of cAMP generated in the cilium that propels cyst formation in ADPKD, supporting the notion that this antenna-like organelle is a compartment within which cAMP signaling occurs independently from cAMP signaling in the bulk cytosol. Here we present examples of cAMP function in the cilium which suggest this mysterious organelle is home to more than one cAMP signalosome. We review evidence that ciliary membrane localization of G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) determines their downstream function and discuss how optogenetic tools have contributed to establish that cAMP generated in the primary cilium can drive cystogenesis.

Cilia-Localized Counterregulatory Signals as Drivers of Renal Cystogenesis

Primary cilia play counterregulatory roles in cystogenesis-they inhibit cyst formation in the normal renal tubule but promote cyst growth when the function of polycystins is impaired. Key upstream cilia-specific signals and components involved in driving cystogenesis have remained elusive. Recent studies of the tubby family protein, Tubby-like protein 3 (TULP3), have provided new insights into the cilia-localized mechanisms that determine cyst growth. TULP3 is a key adapter of the intraflagellar transport complex A (IFT-A) in the trafficking of multiple proteins specifically into the ciliary membrane. Loss of TULP3 results in the selective exclusion of its cargoes from cilia without affecting their extraciliary pools and without disrupting cilia or IFT-A complex integrity. Epistasis analyses have indicated that TULP3 inhibits cystogenesis independently of the polycystins during kidney development but promotes cystogenesis in adults when polycystins are lacking. In this review, we discuss the current model of the cilia-dependent cyst activation (CDCA) mechanism in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) and consider the possible roles of ciliary and extraciliary polycystins in regulating CDCA. We then describe the limitations of this model in not fully accounting for how cilia single knockouts cause significant cystic changes either in the presence or absence of polycystins. Based on available data from TULP3/IFT-A-mediated differential regulation of cystogenesis in kidneys with deletion of polycystins either during development or in adulthood, we hypothesize the existence of cilia-localized components of CDCA (cCDCA) and cilia-localized cyst inhibition (CLCI) signals. We develop the criteria for cCDCA/CLCI signals and discuss potential TULP3 cargoes as possible cilia-localized components that determine cystogenesis in kidneys during development and in adult mice.

Regenerative Calcium Currents in Renal Primary Cilia

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a leading cause of end-stage renal disease. PKD arises from mutations in proteins, one a Ca2+-conducting channel, expressed in the primary cilia of renal epithelial cells. A common hypothesis is that Ca2+ entering through ciliary ion channels may reduce cystogenesis. The cilia have at least two Ca2+-conducting channels: polycystin-2 (PC2) and TRPV4 (transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channel, subfamily V, member 4), but how substantially they can increase intraciliary Ca2+ is unknown. By recording channel activities in isolated cilia, conditions are identified under which the channels can increase free Ca2+ within the cilium by at least 500-fold through regenerative (positive-feedback) signaling. Ca2+ that has entered through a channel can activate the channel internally, which increases the Ca2+ influx, and so on. Regenerative signaling is favored when the concentration of the Ca2+ buffer is reduced or when a slower buffer is used. Under such conditions, the Ca2+ that enters the cilium through a single PC2 channel is sufficient to almost fully activate that same channel. Regenerative signaling is not detectable with reduced external Ca2+. Reduced buffering also allows regenerative signaling through TRPV4 channels, but not through TRPM4 (TRP subfamily M, member 4) channels, which are activated by Ca2+ but do not conduct it. On a larger scale, Ca2+ that enters through TRPV4 channels can cause secondary activation of PC2 channels. I discuss the likelihood of regenerative ciliary Ca2+ signaling in vivo, a possible mechanism for its activation, and how it might relate to cystogenesis.

Local cyclic adenosine monophosphate signalling cascades-Roles and targets in chronic kidney disease

The molecular mechanisms underlying chronic kidney disease (CKD) are poorly understood and treatment options are limited, a situation underpinning the need for elucidating the causative molecular mechanisms and for identifying innovative treatment options. It is emerging that cyclic 3',5'-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signalling occurs in defined cellular compartments within nanometre dimensions in processes whose dysregulation is associated with CKD. cAMP compartmentalization is tightly controlled by a specific set of proteins, including A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) and phosphodiesterases (PDEs). AKAPs such as AKAP18, AKAP220, AKAP-Lbc and STUB1, and PDE4 coordinate arginine-vasopressin (AVP)-induced water reabsorption by collecting duct principal cells. However, hyperactivation of the AVP system is associated with kidney damage and CKD. Podocyte injury involves aberrant AKAP signalling. cAMP signalling in immune cells can be local and slow the progression of inflammatory processes typical for CKD. A major risk factor of CKD is hypertension. cAMP directs the release of the blood pressure regulator, renin, from juxtaglomerular cells, and plays a role in Na⁺ reabsorption through ENaC, NKCC2 and NCC in the kidney. Mutations in the cAMP hydrolysing PDE3A that cause lowering of cAMP lead to hypertension. Another major risk factor of CKD is diabetes mellitus. AKAP18 and AKAP150 and several PDEs are involved in insulin release. Despite the increasing amount of data, an understanding of functions of compartmentalized cAMP signalling with relevance for CKD is fragmentary. Uncovering functions will improve the understanding of physiological processes and identification of disease-relevant aberrations may guide towards new therapeutic concepts for the treatment of CKD.

Limitations and opportunities in the pharmacotherapy of ciliopathies

Ciliopathies are a family of rather diverse conditions, which have been grouped based on the finding of altered or dysfunctional cilia, potentially motile, small cellular antennae extending from the surface of postmitotic cells. Cilia-related disorders include embryonically arising conditions such as Joubert, Usher or Kartagener syndrome, but also afflictions with a postnatal or even adult onset phenotype, i.e. autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. The majority of ciliopathies are syndromic rather than affecting only a single organ due to cilia being found on almost any cell in the human body. Overall ciliopathies are considered rare diseases. Despite that, pharmacological research and the strive to help these patients has led to enormous therapeutic advances in the last decade. In this review we discuss new treatment options for certain ciliopathies, give an outlook on promising future therapeutic strategies, but also highlight the limitations in the development of therapeutic approaches of ciliopathies.

Signal transduction in primary cilia - analyzing and manipulating GPCR and second messenger signaling

The primary cilium projects from the surface of most vertebrate cells, where it senses extracellular signals to regulate diverse cellular processes during tissue development and homeostasis. Dysfunction of primary cilia underlies the pathogenesis of severe diseases, commonly referred to as ciliopathies. Primary cilia contain a unique protein repertoire that is distinct from the cell body and the plasma membrane, enabling the spatially controlled transduction of extracellular cues. G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are key in sensing environmental stimuli that are transmitted via second messenger signaling into a cellular response. Here, we will give an overview of the role of GPCR signaling in primary cilia, and how ciliary GPCR signaling can be targeted by pharmacology, chemogenetics, and optogenetics.

Cilia-based peptidergic signaling

Peptide-based intercellular communication is a ubiquitous and ancient process that predates evolution of the nervous system. Cilia are essential signaling centers that both receive information from the environment and secrete bioactive extracellular vesicles (ectosomes). However, the nature of these secreted signals and their biological functions remain poorly understood. Here, we report the developmentally regulated release of the peptide amidating enzyme, peptidylglycine α-amidating monooxygenase (PAM), and the presence of peptidergic signaling machinery (including propeptide precursors, subtilisin-like prohormone convertases, amidated products, and receptors) in ciliary ectosomes from the green alga Chlamydomonas. One identified amidated PAM product serves as a chemoattractant for mating-type minus gametes but repels plus gametes. Thus, cilia provide a previously unappreciated route for the secretion of amidated signaling peptides. Our study in Chlamydomonas and the presence of PAM in mammalian cilia suggest that ciliary ectosome-mediated peptidergic signaling dates to the early eukaryotes and plays key roles in metazoan physiology.

Cellular signalling by primary cilia in development, organ function and disease

Primary cilia project in a single copy from the surface of most vertebrate cell types; they detect and transmit extracellular cues to regulate diverse cellular processes during development and to maintain tissue homeostasis. The sensory capacity of primary cilia relies on the coordinated trafficking and temporal localization of specific receptors and associated signal transduction modules in the cilium. The canonical Hedgehog (HH) pathway, for example, is a bona fide ciliary signalling system that regulates cell fate and self-renewal in development and tissue homeostasis. Specific receptors and associated signal transduction proteins can also localize to primary cilia in a cell type-dependent manner; available evidence suggests that the ciliary constellation of these proteins can temporally change to allow the cell to adapt to specific developmental and homeostatic cues. Consistent with important roles for primary cilia in signalling, mutations that lead to their dysfunction underlie a pleiotropic group of diseases and syndromic disorders termed ciliopathies, which affect many different tissues and organs of the body. In this Review, we highlight central mechanisms by which primary cilia coordinate HH, G protein-coupled receptor, WNT, receptor tyrosine kinase and transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ)/bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling and illustrate how defects in the balanced output of ciliary signalling events are coupled to developmental disorders and disease progression.

Direct visualization of cAMP signaling in primary cilia reveals up-regulation of ciliary GPCR activity following Hedgehog activation

The primary cilium permits compartmentalization of specific signaling pathways, including elements of the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway. Hh transcriptional activity is thought to be negatively regulated by constitutively high ciliary cAMP maintained by the Gα(s)-coupled GPCR, GPR161. However, cilia also sequester many other Gα(s)-coupled GPCRs with unknown potential to regulate Hh. Here we used biosensors optimized for ciliary cAMP and strategies to isolate signals in the cilium from the cell body and neighboring cells. We found that ciliary cAMP was not elevated relative to cellular cAMP, inconsistent with constitutive cAMP production. Gα(s)-coupled GPCRs (e.g., the 5-HT₆ serotonin and D1R dopamine receptor) had reduced ability to generate cAMP upon trafficking to the ciliary membrane. However, activation of the Hh pathway restored or amplified GPCR function to permit cAMP elevation selectively in the cilium. Hh therefore enables its own local GPCR-dependent cAMP regulatory circuit. Considering that GPCRs comprise much of the druggable genome, these data suggest alternative strategies to modify Hh signaling.

Novel functions of the primary cilium in bone disease and cancer

The primary cilium, a sensory organelle that emanates from the cell surface of most mammalian cell types during growth arrest, has attracted the attention of many researchers over the past decade. Recently, a large number of new findings have assigned novel functions and roles to the primary cilium in signal transduction and related diseases, which has greatly augmented the importance of the cilium in human health and development. Here, we review emerging evidence supporting the primary cilium as a sensory organelle in signal transduction in microgravity, electromagnetic field sensing, chemosensation and tumorigenesis. We also present an overview of signal transduction crosstalk associated with the primary cilium in bone disease and cancer, including primary cilium-related Ca²⁺ signaling, parathyroid hormone signaling, cAMP signaling, BMP/Smad1/5/8 signaling and Wnt signaling. We anticipate that emerging discoveries about the function of the primary cilium will provide novel insight into the molecular mechanisms of stimulus sensation, signal transduction and pathogenesis.

Sensory primary cilium is a responsive cAMP microdomain in renal epithelia

Primary cilia are hair-like cellular extensions that sense microenvironmental signals surrounding cells. The role of adenylyl cyclases in ciliary function has been of interest because the product of adenylyl cyclase activity, cAMP, is relevant to cilia-related diseases. In the present study, we show that vasopressin receptor type-2 (V2R) is localized to cilia in kidney epithelial cells. Pharmacologic inhibition of V2R with tolvaptan increases ciliary length and mechanosensory function. Genetic knockdown of V2R, however, does not have any effect on ciliary length, although the effect of tolvaptan on ciliary length is dampened. Our study reveals that tolvaptan may have a cilia-specific effect independent of V2R or verapamil-sensitive calcium channels. Live-imaging of single cilia shows that V2R activation increases cilioplasmic and cytoplasmic cAMP levels, whereas tolvaptan mediates cAMP changes only in a cilia-specific manner. Furthermore, fluid-shear stress decreases cilioplasmic, but not cytoplasmic cAMP levels. Our data indicate that cilioplasmic and cytoplasmic cAMP levels are differentially modulated. We propose that the cilium is a critical sensor acting as a responsive cAMP microcompartment during physiologically relevant stimuli.

Calcium channels in primary cilia

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Primary cilia have become important organelles implicated in embryonic development, organogenesis, health, and diseases. Although many studies in cell biology have focused on changes in ciliary length or ciliogenesis, the most common readout for evaluating ciliary function is intracellular calcium.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent tools have allowed us to examine intracellular calcium in more precise locations, that is, the cilioplasm and cytoplasm. Advances in calcium imaging have also allowed us to identify which cilia respond to particular stimuli. Furthermore, direct electrophysiological measurement of ionic currents within a cilium has provided a wealth of information for understanding the sensory roles of primary cilia.

SUMMARY

Calcium imaging and direct measurement of calcium currents demonstrate that primary cilia are sensory organelles that house several types of functional calcium channels. Although intracellular calcium now allows a functional readout for primary cilia, discussions on the relative contributions of the several channel types have just begun. Perhaps, all of these calcium channels are required and necessary to differentiate stimuli in different microenvironments.

The flavonol glycoside icariin promotes bone formation in growing rats by activating the cAMP signaling pathway in primary cilia of osteoblasts

Icariin, a prenylated flavonol glycoside isolated from the herb Epimedium, has been considered as a potential alternative therapy for osteoporosis. Previous research has shown that, unlike other flavonoids, icariin is unlikely to act via the estrogen receptor, but its exact mechanism of action is unknown. In this study, using rat calvarial osteoblast culture and rat bone growth models, we demonstrated that icariin promotes bone formation by activating the cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA)/cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) pathway requiring functional primary cilia of osteoblasts. We found that icariin increases the peak bone mass attained by young rats and promotes the maturation and mineralization of rat calvarial osteoblasts. Icariin activated cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling of the osteoblasts by increasing intracellular cAMP levels and facilitating phosphorylation of both PKA and CREB. Blocking cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling with inhibitors of the cAMP-synthesizing adenylyl cyclase (AC) and PKA inhibitors significantly inhibited the osteogenic effect of icariin in the osteoblasts. Icariin-activated cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling was localized to primary cilia, as indicated by localization of soluble AC and phosphorylated PKA. Furthermore, blocking ciliogenesis via siRNA knockdown of a cilium assembly protein, IFT88, inhibited icariin-induced PKA and CREB phosphorylation and also abolished icariin's osteogenic effect. Finally, several of these outcomes were validated in icariin-treated rats. Together, these results provide new insights into icariin function and its mechanisms of action and strengthen existing ties between cAMP-mediated signaling and osteogenesis.

Adenylyl cyclase 5 deficiency reduces renal cyclic AMP and cyst growth in an orthologous mouse model of polycystic kidney disease

Cyclic AMP promotes cyst growth in polycystic kidney disease (PKD) by stimulating cell proliferation and fluid secretion. Previously, we showed that the primary cilium of renal epithelial cells contains a cAMP regulatory complex comprising adenylyl cyclases 5 and 6 (AC5/6), polycystin-2, A-kinase anchoring protein 150, protein kinase A, and phosphodiesterase 4C. In Kif3a mutant cells that lack primary cilia, the formation of this regulatory complex is disrupted and cAMP levels are increased. Inhibition of AC5 reduces cAMP levels in Kif3a mutant cells, suggesting that AC5 may mediate the increase in cAMP in PKD. Here, we examined the role of AC5 in an orthologous mouse model of PKD caused by kidney-specific ablation of Pkd2. Knockdown of AC5 with siRNA attenuated the increase in cAMP levels in Pkd2-deficient renal epithelial cells. Levels of cAMP and AC5 mRNA transcripts were elevated in the kidneys of mice with collecting duct-specific ablation of Pkd2. Compared with Pkd2 single mutant mice, AC5/Pkd2 double mutant mice had less kidney enlargement, lower cyst index, reduced kidney injury, and improved kidney function. Importantly, cAMP levels and cAMP-dependent signaling were reduced in the kidneys of AC5/Pkd2 double mutant compared to the kidneys of Pkd2 single mutant mice. Additionally, we localized endogenous AC5 in the primary cilium of renal epithelial cells and showed that ablation of AC5 reduced ciliary elongation in the kidneys of Pkd2 mutant mice. Thus, AC5 contributes importantly to increased renal cAMP levels and cyst growth in Pkd2 mutant mice, and inhibition of AC5 may be beneficial in the treatment of PKD.

G-Protein-Coupled Receptor Signaling in Cilia

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest and most versatile family of signaling receptors in humans. They respond to diverse external signals, such as photons, proteins, peptides, chemicals, hormones, lipids, and sugars, and mediate a myriad of functions in the human body. Signaling through GPCRs can be optimized by enriching receptors and downstream effectors in discrete cellular domains. Many GPCRs have been found to be selectively targeted to cilia on numerous mammalian cell types. Moreover, investigations into the pathophysiology of human ciliopathies have implicated GPCR ciliary signaling in a number of developmental and cellular pathways. Thus, cilia are now appreciated as an increasingly important nexus for GPCR signaling. Yet, we are just beginning to understand the precise signaling pathways mediated by most ciliary GPCRs and how they impact cellular function and mammalian physiology.

Bardet-Biedl syndrome: Genetics, molecular pathophysiology, and disease management

Primary cilia play a key role in sensory perception and various signaling pathways. Any defect in them leads to group of disorders called ciliopathies, and Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS, OMIM 209900) is one among them. The disorder is clinically and genetically heterogeneous, with various primary and secondary clinical manifestations, and shows autosomal recessive inheritance and highly prevalent in inbred/consanguineous populations. The disease mapped to at least twenty different genes (BBS1-BBS20), follow oligogenic inheritance pattern. BBS proteins localizes to the centerosome and regulates the biogenesis and functions of the cilia. In BBS, the functioning of various systemic organs (with ciliated cells) gets deranged and results in systemic manifestations. Certain components of the disease (such as obesity, diabetes, and renal problems) when noticed earlier offer a disease management benefit to the patients. However, the awareness of the disease is comparatively low and most often noticed only after severe vision loss in patients, which is usually in the first decade of the patient's age. In the current review, we have provided the recent updates retrieved from various types of scientific literature through journals, on the genetics, its molecular relevance, and the clinical outcome in BBS. The review in nutshell would provide the basic awareness of the disease that will have an impact in disease management and counseling benefits to the patients and their families.

The Kidney in Bardet-Biedl Syndrome: Possible Pathogenesis of Urine Concentrating Defect

BACKGROUND

The ciliopathies are a growing number of disorders caused by mutations in genes involved in the function of the primary cilium. Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) belongs to this group of disorders. In this setting, kidney dysfunction is highly variable, and urine concentrating defect, a common feature of multiple ciliopathies, has been described as the most frequent defect. Here we review the mechanism of urine concentration and describe the possible mechanism underling this defect in ciliopathies and especially BBS, based on the current body of literature.

SUMMARY

Active Na⁺ absorption along the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle (TAL) is critical for generating the corticomedullary osmotic gradient, and the countercurrent anatomical arrangement of the 2 branches of the loop of Henle enhances this gradient. The vasa recta, paralleling the loop of Henle, operate into the countercurrent mechanism, minimizing washout of solutes from the interstitium. Final water reabsorption is mediated by the aquaporin 2 (AQP2) water channels along the distal nephron, and it is under hormonal control. Several studies demonstrated that hyposthenuria in BBS patients relies on kidney resistance to desmopressin, suggesting a renal origin. We recently showed that the majority of hyposthenuric BBS patients have also a defect regarding maximal urine dilution. Independent studies showed that BBS10 deficiency caused AQP2 mistrafficking in vitro; accordingly, we demonstrated impaired urinary AQP2 excretion in BBS patients with combined concentrating and diluting defect. Whether receptor signaling pathways or downstream events cause AQP2 deregulation is still unclear. In addition, reduced urinary uromodulin excretion in BBS patients opens the possibility that TAL dysfunction may also play a pathogenic role.

KEY MESSAGE

Impaired water handling in BBS is associated with AQP2 mistrafficking. The potential role of additional factors, such as the dissipation of the medullary osmotic gradient due to TAL dysfunction and/or structural anomalies, remains to be elucidated.

The native TRPP2-dependent channel of murine renal primary cilia

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common life-threatening monogenic renal disease. ADPKD results from mutations in either of two proteins: polycystin-1 (also known as PC1 or PKD1) or transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily P, member 2 (TRPP2, also known as polycystin-2, PC2, or PKD2). Each of these proteins is expressed in the primary cilium that extends from many renal epithelial cells. Existing evidence suggests that the cilium can promote renal cystogenesis, while PC1 and TRPP2 counter this cystogenic effect. To better understand the function of TRPP2, we investigated its electrophysiological properties in the native ciliary membrane. We recorded directly from the cilia of mIMCD-3 cells, a murine cell line of renal epithelial origin. In one-third of cilia examined, a large-conductance channel was observed. The channel was not permeable to Cl¯ but conducted cations with permeability ratios P_K:P_Ca:P_Na of 1:0.55:0.14. The single-channel conductance ranged from 97 pS in typical physiological solutions to 189 pS in symmetrical 145 mM KCl. Open probability of the channel was very sensitive to membrane depolarization or increasing cytoplasmic free Ca²⁺ in the low micromolar range, with the open probability increasing in either case. Knocking out TRPP2 by CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing eliminated the channel current, establishing it as TRPP2 dependent. Possible mechanisms for activating the TRPP2-dependent channel in the renal primary cilium are discussed.

Adenylyl cyclase 3 haploinsufficiency confers susceptibility to diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance in mice

Adenylyl cyclase 3 (Adcy3), a member of the mammalian adenylyl cyclase family responsible for generating the second messenger cAMP, has long been known to play an essential role in olfactory signal transduction. Here, we demonstrated that Adcy3 heterozygous null mice displayed increased visceral adiposity in the absence of hyperphagia and developed abnormal metabolic features characterized by impaired insulin sensitivity, dyslipidemia, and increased plasma levels of proinflammatory cytokines on both chow and high-fat diet (HFD). Of note, HFD decreased the Adcy3 expression in white adipose tissue, liver, and muscle. We also report for the first time that Adcy3 haploinsufficiency resulted in reduced expression of genes involved in thermogenesis, fatty acid oxidation, and insulin signaling, with enhanced expression of genes related to adipogenesis in peripheral tissues of mice. In conclusion, these findings suggest that cAMP signals generated by Adcy3 in peripheral tissues may play a pivotal role in modulating obesity and insulin sensitivity.

Olfactory signaling components and olfactory receptors are expressed in tubule cells of the human kidney

Cells of the renal tubule system are in direct contact with compounds dissolved in the urine, such as short chain fatty acids (SCFA). Murine OR78, a member of the olfactory receptor (OR) family, is involved in SCFA-related regulation of renal blood pressure in mice. It is still unclear whether OR signaling has an impact on human renal physiology. In our study, we showed that OR51E1 and OR11H7, both of which can be activated by the SCFA isovaleric acid, are expressed in the HK-2 human proximal tubule cell line. We observed a transient increase in intracellular Ca²⁺ when isovaleric acid and 4-methylvaleric acid were added to HK-2 cells. The isovaleric acid-induced response was dependent on extracellular Ca²⁺ and adenylyl cyclase (AC) activation. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the canonical olfactory signaling components Gα_olf and ACIII are co-localized with OR51E1. The number of cells responding to isovaleric acid correlated with the presence of primary cilia on HK-2 cells. OR51E1 protein expression was confirmed in the tubule system of human kidney tissue. Our study is the first to show the expression of ORs and olfactory signaling components in human kidney cells. Additionally, we discuss ORs as potential modulators of the renal physiology.

The cAMP Signaling Pathway and Direct Protein Kinase A Phosphorylation Regulate Polycystin-2 (TRPP2) Channel Function

Polycystin-2 (PC2) is a TRP-type, Ca(2+)-permeable non-selective cation channel that plays an important role in Ca(2+) signaling in renal and non-renal cells. The effect(s) of the cAMP pathway and kinase mediated phosphorylation of PC2 seem to be relevant to PC2 trafficking and its interaction with polycystin-1. However, the role of PC2 phosphorylation in channel function is still poorly defined. Here we reconstituted apical membranes of term human syncytiotrophoblast (hST), containing endogenous PC2 (PC2hst), and in vitro translated channel protein (PC2iv). Addition of the catalytic subunit of PKA increased by 566% the spontaneous PC2hst channel activity in the presence of ATP. Interestingly, 8-Br-cAMP also stimulated spontaneous PC2hst channel activity in the absence of the exogenous kinase. Either stimulation was inhibited by addition of alkaline phosphatase, which in turn, was reversed by the phosphatase inhibitor vanadate. Neither maneuver modified the single channel conductance but instead increased channel mean open time. PKA directly phosphorylated PC2, which increased the mean open time but not the single channel conductance of the channel. PKA phosphorylation did not modify either R742X truncated or S829A-mutant PC2iv channel function. The data indicate that the cAMP pathway regulates PC2-mediated cation transport in the hST. The relevant PKA site for PC2 channel regulation centers on a single residue serine 829, in the carboxyl terminus.

A polycystin-centric view of cyst formation and disease: the polycystins revisited

It is 20 years since the identification of PKD1, the major gene mutated in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), followed closely by the cloning of PKD2. These major breakthroughs have led in turn to a period of intense investigation into the function of the two proteins encoded, polycystin-1 and polycystin-2, and how defects in either protein lead to cyst formation and nonrenal phenotypes. In this review, we summarize the major findings in this area and present a current model of how the polycystin proteins function in health and disease.

Two brothers with bardet-biedl syndrome presenting with chronic renal failure

Bardet-Biedl Syndrome (BBS) is a rarely seen autosomal recessive transfer disease characterised by retinal dystrophy, obesity, extremity deformities, mental retardation, and renal and genital system anomalies. BBS shows heterogenic transfer. To date, 18 genes (BBS1–18) and 7 BBS proteins have been defined as related to BBS. All of the defined BBS genes have been shown to be related to the biogenesis or function of cilia. Renal failure accompanying the syndrome, especially in the advanced stages, is the most common cause of mortality. Therefore, as one of the major diagnostic criteria, renal damage is of great importance in early diagnosis. This paper presents the cases of two brothers with BBS who presented with chronic renal failure.

Electrical Signaling in Motile and Primary Cilia

Cilia are highly conserved for their structure and also for their sensory functions. They serve as antennae for extracellular information. Whether the cilia are motile or not, they respond to environmental mechanical and chemical stimuli and signal to the cell body. The information from extracellular stimuli is commonly converted to electrical signals through the repertoire of ion-conducting channels in the ciliary membrane resulting in changes in concentrations of ions, especially Ca2+, in the cilia. These changes, in turn, affect motility and signaling pathways in the cilia and cell body to carry on the signal transduction. We review here the activities of ion channels in cilia from protists to vertebrates.

Cyst formation following disruption of intracellular calcium signaling

Mutations in polycystin 1 and 2 (PC1 and PC2) cause the common genetic kidney disorder autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). It is unknown how these mutations result in renal cysts, but dysregulation of calcium (Ca(2+)) signaling is a known consequence of PC2 mutations. PC2 functions as a Ca(2+)-activated Ca(2+) channel of the endoplasmic reticulum. We hypothesize that Ca(2+) signaling through PC2, or other intracellular Ca(2+) channels such as the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (InsP3R), is necessary to maintain renal epithelial cell function and that disruption of the Ca(2+) signaling leads to renal cyst development. The cell line LLC-PK1 has traditionally been used for studying PKD-causing mutations and Ca(2+) signaling in 2D culture systems. We demonstrate that this cell line can be used in long-term (8 wk) 3D tissue culture systems. In 2D systems, knockdown of InsP3R results in decreased Ca(2+) transient signals that are rescued by overexpression of PC2. In 3D systems, knockdown of either PC2 or InsP3R leads to cyst formation, but knockdown of InsP3R type 1 (InsP3R1) generated the largest cysts. InsP3R1 and InsP3R3 are differentially localized in both mouse and human kidney, suggesting that regional disruption of Ca(2+) signaling contributes to cystogenesis. All cysts had intact cilia 2 wk after starting 3D culture, but the cells with InsP3R1 knockdown lost cilia as the cysts grew. Studies combining 2D and 3D cell culture systems will assist in understanding how mutations in PC2 that confer altered Ca(2+) signaling lead to ADPKD cysts.

Urinary concentration: different ways to open and close the tap

Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) provides an excellent model for the benefits and insights that can be gained from studying rare diseases. The discovery of underlying genes identified key molecules involved in urinary concentration, including the type 2 vasopressin receptor AVPR2 and the water channel AQP2, which constitute obvious pharmacologic targets. Subsequently developed drugs targeting AVPR2 not only provide potential benefit to some patients with NDI, but are now used for much more common clinical applications as diverse as nocturnal enuresis and heart failure. Yet, the story is still evolving: clinical observations and animal experiments continue to discover new ways to affect urinary concentration. These novel pathways can potentially be exploited for therapeutic gain. Here we review the (patho)physiology of water homoeostasis, the current status of clinical management, and potential new treatments.

Adenylyl cyclase 6 deficiency ameliorates polycystic kidney disease

cAMP is an important mediator of cystogenesis in polycystic kidney disease (PKD). Several adenylyl cyclase (AC) isoforms could mediate cAMP accumulation in PKD, and identification of a specific pathogenic AC isoform is of therapeutic interest. We investigated the role of AC6 in a mouse model of PKD that is homozygous for the loxP-flanked PKD1 gene and heterozygous for an aquaporin-2-Cre recombinase transgene to achieve collecting duct-specific gene targeting. Collecting duct-specific knockout of polycystin-1 caused massive renal cyst formation, kidney enlargement, and severe kidney failure, with a mean survival time of 2 months. In contrast, coincident collecting duct-specific knockout of polycystin-1 and AC6 (also homozygous for the floxed ADCY6 gene) markedly decreased kidney size and cystogenesis, improved renal function, reduced activation of the B-Raf/ERK/MEK pathway, and greatly increased survival. Absence of collecting duct AC6 did not alter urinary cAMP excretion or kidney cAMP concentration. In conclusion, AC6 is a key mediator of cyst formation and renal injury in a model of PKD.

Update on the genetics of bardet-biedl syndrome

Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) is an autosomal recessive disease characterized by retinal dystrophy, obesity, postaxial polydactyly, learning disabilities, renal involvement, and male hypogenitalism. BBS is genetically heterogeneous, and to date 18 genes (BBS1-18) have been described. Mutations in known BBS genes account for approximately 70-80% of cases, and triallelic inheritance has been suggested in about 5%. Many minor features can be helpful in making the clinical diagnosis. Recently, the use of next-generation sequencing technologies has accelerated the identification of novel genes and causative disease mutations in known genes. This report presents a concise overview of the current knowledge on clinical data in BBS and the progress in molecular genetics research. A future objective will be the development of BBS diagnosis kits in order to offer genetic counseling for families at risk.

The ciliary cytoskeleton

Cilia and flagella are surface-exposed, finger-like organelles whose core consists of a microtubule (MT)-based axoneme that grows from a modified centriole, the basal body. Cilia are found on the surface of many eukaryotic cells and play important roles in cell motility and in coordinating a variety of signaling pathways during growth, development, and tissue homeostasis. Defective cilia have been linked to a number of developmental disorders and diseases, collectively called ciliopathies. Cilia are dynamic organelles that assemble and disassemble in tight coordination with the cell cycle. In most cells, cilia are assembled during growth arrest in a multistep process involving interaction of vesicles with appendages present on the distal end of mature centrioles, and addition of tubulin and other building blocks to the distal tip of the basal body and growing axoneme; these building blocks are sorted through a region at the cilium base known as the ciliary necklace, and then transported via intraflagellar transport (IFT) along the axoneme toward the tip for assembly. After assembly, the cilium frequently continues to turn over and incorporate tubulin at its distal end in an IFT-dependent manner. Prior to cell division, the cilia are usually resorbed to liberate centrosomes for mitotic spindle pole formation. Here, we present an overview of the main cytoskeletal structures associated with cilia and centrioles with emphasis on the MT-associated appendages, fibers, and filaments at the cilium base and tip. The composition and possible functions of these structures are discussed in relation to cilia assembly, disassembly, and length regulation.

Emerging role of primary cilia as mechanosensors in osteocytes

The primary cilium is a solitary, immotile microtubule-based extension present on nearly every mammalian cell. This organelle has established mechanosensory roles in several contexts including kidney, liver, and the embryonic node. Mechanical load deflects the cilium, triggering biochemical responses. Defects in cilium function have been associated with numerous human diseases. Recent research has implicated the primary cilium as a mechanosensor in bone. In this review, we discuss the cilium, the growing evidence for its mechanosensory role in bone, and areas of future study.

A method for measuring electrical signals in a primary cilium

BACKGROUND

Most cells in the body possess a single primary cilium. These cilia are key transducers of sensory stimuli, and defects in cilia have been linked to several diseases. Evidence suggests that some transduction of sensory stimuli by the primary cilium depends on ion-conducting channels. However, the tiny size of the cilium has been a critical barrier to understanding its electrical properties. We report a novel method that allows sensitive, repeatable electrical recordings from primary cilia. Adherent cells were grown on small, spherical beads that could be easily moved within the recording chamber. In this configuration, an entire cilium could be pulled into a recording microelectrode.

RESULTS

In 47% of attempts, suction resulted in a seal with high input resistance. Single channels could be recorded while the cilium remained attached to the cell. When the pipette was raised into the air, the cell body was pulled off at the air-bath interface. The pipette retained the cilium and could then be immersed in various solutions that bathed the cytoplasmic face of the membrane. In excised cilia, ionic currents through ciliary channels were modulated by cytoplasmic Ca(2+) and transmembrane voltage.

CONCLUSIONS

Ciliary recording is a direct way to learn the effects of second messengers and voltage changes on ciliary transduction channels.

[Detecting selection signatures on X chromosome in pig through high density SNPs]

In the process of domestic pig breeding, many important economic traits were subject to strong artificial se-lection pressure. With the availability of high density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers in farm animals, selection occurring in those traits could be traced by detecting selection signatures on genome, and the genes experiencing selection can also be further mined based on selection signatures. Due to the special characteristic of X chromosome, many approaches of genetic analysis fitted for autosome are not plausible for X chromosome. Fortunately, detecting selection signature provides an effective tool to settle such situation. In this study, the Cross Population Extend Haplotype Homozygosity Test (XP-EHH) was implemented to identify selection signatures on chromosome X in three pig breeds (Landrace, Songliao, and Yorkshire) using high density SNPs, and the genes located within selection signature regions were revealed through bioinformatic analysis. In total, 29, 13, and 15 selection signature regions, with 3.59, 4.92, and 4.07 SNPs on average in each region, were identified in Landrace, Songliao, and Yorkshire, respectively. Some overlaps of selection signature regions were observed between Songliao and Landrace, and between Landrace and Yorkshire, while no overlaps between Yorkshire and Songliao were found. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that many genes in the selection signature regions were related to reproduction and immune traits, and some of them have not been reported in pigs, which might serve as important candidate genes in future study.

Bicc1 links the regulation of cAMP signaling in polycystic kidneys to microRNA-induced gene silencing

Genetic defects in autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) promote cystic growth of renal tubules, at least in part by stimulating the accumulation of cAMP. How renal cAMP levels are regulated is incompletely understood. We show that cAMP and the expression of its synthetic enzyme adenylate cyclase-6 (AC6) are up-regulated in cystic kidneys of Bicc1(-)(/-) knockout mice. Bicc1, a protein comprising three K homology (KH) domains and a sterile alpha motif (SAM), is expressed in proximal tubules. The KH domains independently bind AC6 mRNA and recruit the miR-125a from Dicer, whereas the SAM domain enables silencing by Argonaute and TNRC6A/GW182. Bicc1 similarly induces silencing of the protein kinase inhibitor PKIα by miR-27a. Thus, Bicc1 is needed on these target mRNAs for silencing by specific miRNAs. The repression of AC6 by Bicc1 might explain why cysts in ADPKD patients preferentially arise from distal tubules.

The primary cilium as a novel extracellular sensor in bone

Mechanically induced adaptation of bone is required to maintain a healthy skeleton and defects in this process can lead to dramatic changes in bone mass, resulting in bone diseases such as osteoporosis. Therefore, understanding how this process occurs could yield novel therapeutics to treat diseases of excessive bone loss or formation. Over the past decade the primary cilium has emerged as a novel extracellular sensor in bone, being required to transduce changes in the extracellular mechanical environment into biochemical responses regulating bone adaptation. In this review, we introduce the primary cilium as a novel extracellular sensor in bone; discuss the in vitro and in vivo findings of primary cilia based sensing in bone; explore the role of the primary cilium in regulating stem cell osteogenic fate commitment and finish with future directions of research and possible development of cilia targeting therapeutics to treat bone diseases.

Primary cilia and coordination of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signalling

Primary cilia are microtubule-based sensory organelles that coordinate signalling pathways in cell-cycle control, migration, differentiation and other cellular processes critical during development and for tissue homeostasis. Accordingly, defects in assembly or function of primary cilia lead to a plethora of developmental disorders and pathological conditions now known as ciliopathies. In this review, we summarize the current status of the role of primary cilia in coordinating receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signalling pathways. Further, we present potential mechanisms of signalling crosstalk and networking in the primary cilium and discuss how defects in ciliary RTK signalling are linked to human diseases and disorders.

Collecting duct cells that lack normal cilia have mislocalized vasopressin-2 receptors

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a ciliopathy characterized by renal cysts and hypertension. These changes are presumably due to altered fluid and electrolyte transport in the collecting duct (CD). This is the site where vasopressin (AVP) stimulates vasopressin-2 receptor (V2R)-mediated aquaporin-2 (AQP2) insertion into the apical membrane. Since cysts frequently occur in the CD, we studied V2R and AQP2 trafficking and function in CD cell lines with stunted and normal cilia [cilia (-), cilia (+)] derived from the orpk mouse (hypomorph of the Tg737/Ift88 gene). Interestingly, only cilia (-) cells grown on culture dishes formed domes after apical AVP treatment. This observation led to our hypothesis that V2R mislocalizes to the apical membrane in the absence of a full-length cilium. Immunofluorescence indicated that AQP2 localizes to cilia and in a subapical compartment in cilia (+) cells, but AQP2 levels were elevated in both apical and basolateral membranes in cilia (-) cells after apical AVP treatment. Western blot analysis revealed V2R and glycosylated AQP2 in biotinylated apical membranes of cilia (-) but not in cilia (+) cells. In addition, apical V2R was functional upon apical desmopressin (DDAVP) treatment by demonstrating increased cAMP, water transport, and benzamil-sensitive equivalent short-circuit current (I(sc)) in cilia (-) cells but not in cilia (+) cells. Moreover, pretreatment with a PKA inhibitor abolished DDAVP stimulation of I(sc) in cilia (-) cells. Thus we propose that structural or functional loss of cilia leads to abnormal trafficking of AQP2/V2R leading to enhanced salt and water absorption. Whether such apical localization contributes to enhanced fluid retention and hypertension in PKD remains to be determined.

Protein kinase A acts at the basal body of the primary cilium to prevent Gli2 activation and ventralization of the mouse neural tube

Protein kinase A (PKA) is an evolutionarily conserved negative regulator of the hedgehog (Hh) signal transduction pathway. PKA is known to be required for the proteolytic processing event that generates the repressor forms of the Ci and Gli transcription factors that keep target genes off in the absence of Hh. Here, we show that complete loss of PKA activity in the mouse leads to midgestation lethality and a completely ventralized neural tube, demonstrating that PKA is as strong a negative regulator of the sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway as patched 1 (Ptch1) or suppressor of fused (Sufu). Genetic analysis shows that although PKA is important for production of the repressor form of Gli3, the principal function of PKA in the Shh pathway in neural development is to restrain activation of Gli2. Activation of the Hh pathway in PKA mutants depends on cilia, and the catalytic and regulatory subunits of PKA are localized to a compartment at the base of the primary cilia, just proximal to the basal body. The data show that PKA does not affect cilia length or trafficking of smoothened (Smo) in the cilium. Instead, we find that there is a significant increase in the level of Gli2 at the tips of cilia of PKA-null cells. The data suggest a model in which PKA acts at the base of the cilium after Gli proteins have transited the primary cilium; in this model the sequential movement of Gli proteins between compartments in the cilium and at its base controls accessibility of Gli proteins to PKA, which determines the fates of Gli proteins and the activity of the Shh pathway.

Polycystin-2 and phosphodiesterase 4C are components of a ciliary A-kinase anchoring protein complex that is disrupted in cystic kidney diseases

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder that is characterized by cyst formation in kidney tubules. PKD arises from abnormalities of the primary cilium, a sensory organelle located on the cell surface. Here, we show that the primary cilium of renal epithelial cells contains a protein complex comprising adenylyl cyclase 5/6 (AC5/6), A-kinase anchoring protein 150 (AKAP150), and protein kinase A. Loss of primary cilia caused by deletion of Kif3a results in activation of AC5 and increased cAMP levels. Polycystin-2 (PC2), a ciliary calcium channel that is mutated in human PKD, interacts with AC5/6 through its C terminus. Deletion of PC2 increases cAMP levels, which can be corrected by reexpression of wild-type PC2 but not by a mutant lacking calcium channel activity. Phosphodiesterase 4C (PDE4C), which catabolizes cAMP, is also located in renal primary cilia and interacts with the AKAP150 complex. Expression of PDE4C is regulated by the transcription factor hepatocyte nuclear factor-1β (HNF-1β), mutations of which produce kidney cysts. PDE4C is down-regulated and cAMP levels are increased in HNF-1β mutant kidney cells and mice. Collectively, these findings identify PC2 and PDE4C as unique components of an AKAP complex in primary cilia and reveal a common mechanism for dysregulation of cAMP signaling in cystic kidney diseases arising from different gene mutations.

The type 3 adenylyl cyclase is required for novel object learning and extinction of contextual memory: role of cAMP signaling in primary cilia

Although primary cilia are found on neurons throughout the brain, their physiological function remains elusive. Human ciliopathies are associated with cognition defects, and transgenic mice lacking proteins expressed in primary cilia exhibit defects in learning and memory. Recently, it was reported that mice lacking the G-protein-coupling receptor somatostatin receptor-3 (SSTR3), a protein expressed predominately in the primary cilia of neurons, have defective memory for novel object recognition and lower cAMP levels in the brain. Since SSTR3 is coupled to regulation of adenylyl cyclase, this suggests that adenylyl cyclase activity in primary cilia of CNS neurons may be critical for some forms of learning and memory. Because the type 3 adenylyl cyclase (AC3) is expressed in primary cilia of hippocampal neurons, we examined AC3(-/-) mice for several forms of learning and memory. Here, we report that AC3(-/-) mice show no short-term memory for novel objects and fail to exhibit extinction of contextual fear conditioning. They also show impaired learning and memory for temporally dissociative passive avoidance. Since AC3 is exclusively expressed in primary cilia, we conclude that cAMP signals generated within primary cilia contribute to some forms of learning and memory, including extinction of contextual fear conditioning.

Nephronophthisis: a genetically diverse ciliopathy

Nephronophthisis (NPHP) is an autosomal recessive cystic kidney disease and a leading genetic cause of established renal failure (ERF) in children and young adults. Early presenting symptoms in children with NPHP include polyuria, nocturia, or secondary enuresis, pointing to a urinary concentrating defect. Renal ultrasound typically shows normal kidney size with increased echogenicity and corticomedullary cysts. Importantly, NPHP is associated with extra renal manifestations in 10-15% of patients. The most frequent extrarenal association is retinal degeneration, leading to blindness. Increasingly, molecular genetic testing is being utilised to diagnose NPHP and avoid the need for a renal biopsy. In this paper, we discuss the latest understanding in the molecular and cellular pathogenesis of NPHP. We suggest an appropriate clinical management plan and screening programme for individuals with NPHP and their families.

Retinal dystrophy in Bardet-Biedl syndrome and related syndromic ciliopathies

Primary cilia are almost ubiquitously expressed in eukaryotic cells where they function as sensors relaying information either from the extracellular environment or between two compartments of the same cell, such as in the photoreceptor cell. In ciliopathies, a continuously growing class of genetic disorders related to ciliary defects, the modified primary cilium of the photoreceptor, also known as the connecting cilium, is frequently defective. Ciliary dysfunction involves disturbances in the trafficking and docking of specific proteins involved in its biogenesis or maintenance. The main well-conserved ciliary process, intraflagellar transport (IFT), is a complex process carried out by multimeric ciliary particles and molecular motors of major importance in the photoreceptor cell. It is defective in a growing number of ciliopathies leading to retinal degeneration. Retinitis pigmentosa related to ciliary dysfunction can be an isolated feature or a part of a syndrome such as Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS). Research on ciliopathies and BBS has led to the discovery of several major cellular processes carried out by the primary cilium structure and has highlighted their genetic heterogeneity.

Alström syndrome: insights into the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders

Genetic causes of obesity include the ciliopathies Alström syndrome and Bardet-Biedl syndrome. In these disorders, mutations cause dysfunction of the primary cilium, an organelle involved in intracellular and intercellular sensing and signaling. Alström syndrome is an autosomal-recessive disorder caused solely by mutations in ALMS1. By contrast, Bardet-Biedl syndrome is caused by mutations in at least 14 genes involved in primary cilium function. Despite equivalent levels of obesity, patients with Alström syndrome are more likely than those with Bardet-Biedl syndrome to develop childhood type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), suggesting that ALMS1 might have a specific role in β-cell function and/or peripheral insulin signaling pathways. How mutations in genes that encode proteins involved in primary cilium function lead to the clinical phenotypes of these syndromes is being revealed by work in mutant mouse models. With the aid of these models, insights are being obtained into the pathogenic mechanisms that underlie obesity, insulin resistance and T2DM. Research into ciliopathies, including Alström syndrome and Bardet-Biedl syndrome, should lead not only to improved treatments for individuals with these genetic disorders, but also to improved understanding of the cellular pathways involved in other common causes of obesity and T2DM.

Bardet-Biedl syndrome highlights the major role of the primary cilium in efficient water reabsorption

Studies of the primary cilium, now known to be present in all cells, have undergone a revolution, in part, because mutation of many of its proteins causes a large number of diseases, including cystic kidney disease. Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) is an inherited ciliopathy characterized, among other dysfunctions, by renal defects for which the precise role of the cilia in kidney function remains unclear. We studied a cohort of patients with BBS where we found that these patients had a urinary concentration defect even when kidney function was near normal and in the absence of major cyst formation. Subsequent in vitro analysis showed that renal cells in which a BBS gene was knocked down were unciliated, but did not exhibit cell cycle defects. As the vasopressin receptor 2 is located in the primary cilium, we studied BBS-derived unciliated renal epithelial cells and found that they were unable to respond to luminal arginine vasopressin treatment and activate their luminal aquaporin 2. The ability to reabsorb water was restored by treating these unciliated renal epithelial cells with forskolin, a receptor-independent adenylate cyclase activator, showing that the intracellular machinery for water absorption was present but not activated. These findings suggest that the luminal receptor located on the primary cilium may be important for efficient transepithelial water absorption.

The p75 neurotrophin receptor is localized to primary cilia in adult murine hippocampal dentate gyrus granule cells

The densely ciliated granule cell layer of the adult murine hippocampal dentate gyrus is one of two sites of adult neurogenesis. The granule cells have already been proven to localize their SSTR3 (somatostatin receptor 3) receptors to their so-called primary cilia. Here we show for the first time that 70-90% of these cells in 7-18 months-old wild-type and 3×Tg-AD (Alzheimer disease transgenic) mice also load p75(NTR) receptors into the structures containing SSTR3, i.e., their primary cilia. On the other hand, p75(NTR')s TrkA co-receptors were not localized to cilia but conventionally distributed throughout the cell surface. Significantly fewer cells (20-40%) in the hippocampal CA1 and CA3 regions and cerebral cortex have p75(NTR) containing cilia. While we don't know what the impact of the cilial localization of p75(NTR) on dentate gyral adult neurogenesis and memory encoding might be, the cilia's amyloid β-activatable p75(NTR) receptors could be damaging or lethal to the hippocampal functioning of amyloid β-accumulating Alzheimer brain.

Primary cilium-dependent mechanosensing is mediated by adenylyl cyclase 6 and cyclic AMP in bone cells

Primary cilia are chemosensing and mechanosensing organelles that regulate remarkably diverse processes in a variety of cells. We previously showed that primary cilia play a role in mediating mechanosensing in bone cells through an unknown mechanism that does not involve extracellular Ca(2+)-dependent intracellular Ca(2+) release, which has been implicated in all other cells that transduce mechanical signals via the cilium. Here, we identify a molecular mechanism linking primary cilia and bone cell mechanotransduction that involves adenylyl cyclase 6 (AC6) and cAMP. Intracellular cAMP was quantified in MLO-Y4 cells exposed to dynamic flow, and AC6 and primary cilia were inhibited using RNA interference. When exposed to flow, cells rapidly (<2 min) and transiently decreased cAMP production in a primary cilium-dependent manner. RT-PCR revealed differential expression of the membrane-bound isoforms of adenylyl cyclase, while immunostaining revealed one, AC6, preferentially localized to the cilium. Further studies showed that decreases in cAMP in response to flow were dependent on AC6 and Gd(3+)-sensitive channels but not intracellular Ca(2+) release and that this response mediated flow-induced COX-2 gene expression. The signaling events identified provide important details of a novel early mechanosensing mechanism in bone and advances our understanding of how signal transduction occurs at the primary cilium.

Neuronal ciliary signaling in homeostasis and disease

Primary cilia are a class of cilia that are typically solitary, immotile appendages present on nearly every mammalian cell type. Primary cilia are believed to perform specialized sensory and signaling functions that are important for normal development and cellular homeostasis. Indeed, primary cilia dysfunction is now linked to numerous human diseases and genetic disorders. Collectively, primary cilia disorders are termed as ciliopathies and present with a wide range of clinical features, including cystic kidney disease, retinal degeneration, obesity, polydactyly, anosmia, intellectual disability, and brain malformations. Although significant progress has been made in elucidating the functions of primary cilia on some cell types, the precise functions of most primary cilia remain unknown. This is particularly true for primary cilia on neurons throughout the mammalian brain. This review will introduce primary cilia and ciliary signaling pathways with a focus on neuronal cilia and their putative functions and roles in human diseases.