Dopamine-mediated inhibition of renal Na,K-ATPase is reduced by insulin

Regulatory effect of insulin on the structure, function and metabolism of Na+/K+-ATPase (Review)

Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase is an ancient enzyme, the role of which is to maintain Na⁺ and K⁺ gradients across cell membranes, thus preserving intracellular ion homeostasis. The regulation of Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase is affected by several regulatory factors through a number of pathways, with hormones serving important short-term and long-term regulatory functions. Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase can also be degraded through activation of the ubiquitin proteasome and autophagy-lysosomal pathways, thereby affecting its abundance and enzymatic activity. As regards the regulatory effect of insulin, it has been found to upregulate the relative abundance of Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase and restore the transport efficiency in multiple in vitro and in vivo experiments. Therefore, elucidating the role of insulin in the regulation Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase may help uncover new drug targets for the treatment of related diseases. The aim of the present study was to review the structure and function of Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase and to discuss the possible mechanisms through which it may be regulated by insulin, in order to investigate the possibility of designing new therapies for related diseases.

Inhibition of D4 Dopamine Receptors on Insulin Receptor Expression and Effect in Renal Proximal Tubule Cells

BACKGROUND

Ion transport in the renal proximal tubule (RPT), which is increased in essential hypertension, is regulated by numerous hormones and humoral factors, including insulin and dopamine. Activation of dopamine receptor inhibits sodium reabsorption, whereas activation of insulin receptor increases sodium reabsorption in RPTs, and hyperinsulinemic animals and patients have defective renal dopaminergic system. We presume that there is an inhibition of D4 receptor on insulin receptor expression and effect, and the regulation is lost in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Insulin receptor expression was determined by immunoblotting, and Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity was detected in both Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) and SHR RPT cells. Stimulation of D4 receptor with PD168077 decreased expression of insulin receptors, which was blocked in the presence of the calcium-channel blocker, nicardipine (10(-6) mol/L per 24 hours), in cell culture medium without calcium or in the presence of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor blocker (2-aminoethyl diphenylborinate [2-ADB]; 10(-6) mol/L per 24 hours), indicating that extracellular calcium entry and calcium release from the endoplasmic reticulum were involved in the signal pathway. Stimulation of the insulin receptor stimulated Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity, whereas pretreatment with PD168077 for 24 hours decreased the inhibitory effects of insulin receptor on Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity in WKY cells. However, in SHR cells, inhibition of D4 receptor on insulin receptor expression and effect were lost.

CONCLUSIONS

Activation of D4 receptor inhibits insulin receptor expression in RPT cells from WKY rats. The aberrant inhibition of D4 receptor on insulin receptor expression and effect might be involved in the pathogenesis of essential hypertension.

Antioxidant resveratrol restores renal sodium transport regulation in SHR

Previously we have shown that in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) renal angiotensin (Ang) II receptor (AT1R) upregulation leads to overstimulation of Na/K-ATPase by Ang II. There are reports that antioxidants can reduce oxidative stress and blood pressure (BP) in SHR, however the effect of these compounds on AT1R function remains to be determined. Therefore, we hypothesized that polyphenol antioxidant resveratrol would mitigate oxidative stress, normalize renal AT1R signaling, and reduce BP in SHR. SHR and wistar-kyoto (WKY) rats were treated with resveratrol for 8 weeks. Untreated SHR exhibited oxidative stress and enhanced renal proximal tubular Ang II-induced G-protein activation and Na/K-ATPase stimulation. Treatment of SHR with resveratrol mitigated oxidative stress, reduced BP, and normalized renal AT1R signaling. In SHR, nuclear expression of transcription factor NF-κB was increased while expression of Nrf2 was reduced. SHR also exhibited a significant decrease in renal antioxidant capacity and activities of phase II antioxidant enzymes. Resveratrol treatment of SHR abolished renal NF-κB activation, restored Nrf2-phase II antioxidant signaling and Ang II-mediated Na/K-ATPase regulation. These data show that in SHR, oxidative stress via activation of NF-κB upregulates AT1R–G-protein signaling resulting in overstimulation Na/K-ATPase which contributes to hypertension. Resveratrol, via Nrf2, activates phase II antioxidant enzymes, mitigates oxidative stress, normalizes AT1R–G-protein signaling and Na/K-ATPase regulation, and decreases BP in SHR.

Transcriptional regulation of renal dopamine D1 receptor function during oxidative stress

There exists a strong link between oxidative stress, renal dopaminergic system, and hypertension. It is reported that reactive oxygen species attenuate renal proximal tubular dopamine receptor (D1R) function, which disrupts sodium regulation and leads to hypertension. However, the mechanisms for renal D1R dysfunction are not clear. We investigated the role of redox-sensitive transcription factors AP1 and SP3 in transcriptional suppression of D1R gene and subsequent D1R signaling. Human kidney proximal tubular cells were treated with a pro-oxidant l-buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) with and without an antioxidant tempol. In human kidney cells, BSO caused oxidative stress and reduced D1R mRNA and membrane receptor expression. Incubation of human kidney cells with SKF38393, a D1R agonist, caused a concentration-dependent inhibition of Na/K-ATPase. However, SKF38393 failed to inhibit Na/K-ATPase in BSO-treated cells. BSO increased AP1 and SP3 nuclear expression. Transfection with AP1- or SP3-specific siRNA abolished BSO-induced D1R downregulation. Treatment of rats with BSO for 4 weeks increased oxidative stress and SP3-AP1 expression and reduced D1R numbers in renal proximal tubules. These rats exhibited high blood pressure, and SKF38393 failed to inhibit proximal tubular Na/K-ATPase activity. Control rats were kept on tap water. Tempol per se had no effect on D1R expression or other signaling molecules but prevented BSO-induced oxidative stress, SP3-AP1 upregulation, and D1R dysfunction in both human kidney cells and rats. These data show that oxidative stress via AP1-SP3 activation suppresses D1R transcription and function. Tempol mitigates oxidative stress, blocks AP1-SP3 activation, and prevents D1R dysfunction and hypertension.

Impaired dopamine D1 receptor-mediated vasorelaxation of mesenteric arteries in obese Zucker rats

Background

Obesity plays an important role in the pathogenesis of hypertension. Renal dopamine D₁-like receptor-mediated diuresis and natriuresis are impaired in the obese Zucker rat, an obesity-related hypertensive rat model. The role of arterial D₁ receptors in the hypertension of obese Zucker rats is not clear.

Methods

Plasma glucose and insulin concentrations and blood pressure were measured. The vasodilatory response of isolated mesenteric arteries was evaluated using a small vessel myograph. The expression and phosphorylation of D₁ receptors were quantified by co-immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting To determine the effect of hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycemia on the function of the arterial D₁ receptor, we studied obese Zucker rats (six to eight-weeks old) fed (6 weeks) vehicle or rosiglitazone, an insulin sensitizer (10 mg/kg per day) and lean Zucker rats (eight to ten-weeks old), fed high-fat diet to induce hyperinsulinemia or injected intraperitoneally with streptomycin (STZ) to induce hyperglycemia.

Results

In obese Zucker rats, the vasorelaxant effect of D₁-like receptors was impaired that could be ascribed to decreased arterial D₁ receptor expression and increased D₁ receptor phosphorylation. In these obese rats, rosiglitazone normalized the arterial D₁ receptor expression and phosphorylation and improved the D₁-like receptor-mediated vasorelaxation. We also found that D₁ receptor-dependent vasorelaxation was decreased in lean Zucker rats with hyperinsulinemia or hyperglycemia but the D₁ receptor dysfunction was greater in the former than in the latter group. The ability of insulin and glucose to decrease D₁ receptor expression and increase its phosphorylation were confirmed in studies of rat aortic smooth muscle cells.

Conclusions

Both hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycemia caused D₁ receptor dysfunction by decreasing arterial D₁ receptor expression and increasing D₁ receptor phosphorylation. Impaired D₁ receptor-mediated vasorelaxation is involved in the pathogenesis of obesity-related hypertension.

Crosstalk between dopamine receptors and the Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase (review)

Dopamine (DA) receptors, which belong to the G protein-coupled receptor family, are the target of ~50% of all modern medicinal drugs and constitute a large and diverse class of proteins whose primary function is to transduce extracellular stimuli into intracellular signals. Na+/K+-ATPase (NKA) is ubiquitous and crucial for the maintenance of intracellular ion homeostasis and excitability. Furthermore, it plays a critical role in diverse effects, including clinical cardiotonic and cardioprotective effects, ischemic preconditioning in the brain, natriuresis, lung edema clearance and other processes. NKA regulation is of physiological and pharmacological importance and has species- and tissue-specific variations. The activation of DA receptors regulates NKA expression/activity and trafficking in various tissues and cells, for example in the kidney, lung, intestine, brain, non-pigmented ciliary epithelium and the vascular bed. DA receptor-mediated regulation of NKA mediates a diverse range of cellular responses and includes endocytosis/exocytosis, phosphorylation/dephosphorylation of the α subunit of NKA and multiple signaling pathways, including phosphatidylinositol (PI)-phospholipase C/protein kinase (PK) C, cAMP/PKA, PI3K, adaptor protein 2, tyrosine phosphatase and mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase. Furthermore, in brain and HEK293T cells, D1 and D2 receptors exist in a complex with NKA. Among D1 and D2 receptors and NKA, regulations are reciprocal, which leads to crosstalk between DA receptors and NKA. In the present study, the current understanding of signaling mechanisms responsible for the crosstalk between DA receptors and NKA, as well as with specific consequent functions, is reviewed.

Effects of green tea or Sasa quelpaertensis bamboo leaves on plasma and liver lipids, erythrocyte Na efflux, and platelet aggregation in ovariectomized rats

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of Sasa quelpaertensis bamboo and green tea on plasma and liver lipids, platelet aggregation, and erythrocyte membrane Na channels in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Thirty female rats were OVX, and ten female rats were sham-operated at the age of 6 weeks. The rats were divided into four groups at the age of 10 weeks and fed the experiment diets: sham-control, OVX-control, OVX-bamboo leaves (10%), or OVX-green tea leaves (10%) for four weeks. Final body weight increased significantly in the OVX groups compared with that in the sham-control, whereas body weight in the OVX-green tea group decreased significantly compared with that in the OVX-control (P < 0.01). High density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol level decreased in all OVX groups compared with that in the sham-control rats (P < 0.05) but without a difference in plasma total cholesterol. Plasma triglycerides in the OVX-green tea group were significantly lower than those in the sham-control or OVX-control group (P < 0.05). Liver triglycerides increased significantly in the OVX-control compared with those in the sham-control (P < 0.01) but decreased significantly in the OVX-green tea group compared with those in the OVX-control or OVX-bamboo group (P < 0.01). Platelet aggregation in both maximum and initial slope tended to be lower in all OVX rats compared with that in the sham-control rats but was not significantly different. Na-K ATPase tended to increase and Na-K cotransport tended to decrease following ovariectomy. Na-K ATPase decreased significantly in the OVX-green tea group compared with that in the OVX-control group (P < 0.01), and Na-K cotransport increased significantly in the OVX-bamboo and OVX-green tea groups compared with that in the OVX-control (P < 0.05). Femoral bone mineral density tended to be lower in OVX rats than that in the sham-control, whereas the green tea and bamboo leaves groups recovered bone density to some extent. The results show that ovariectomy caused an increase in body weight and liver triglycerides, and that green tea was effective for lowering body weight and triglycerides in OVX rats. Ovariectomy induced an increase in Na efflux via Na-K ATPase and a decrease in Na efflux via Na-K cotransport. Furthermore, consumption of green tea and bamboo leaves affected Na efflux channels, controlling electrolyte and body water balance.

Dopamine and renal function and blood pressure regulation

Dopamine is an important regulator of systemic blood pressure via multiple mechanisms. It affects fluid and electrolyte balance by its actions on renal hemodynamics and epithelial ion and water transport and by regulation of hormones and humoral agents. The kidney synthesizes dopamine from circulating or filtered L-DOPA independently from innervation. The major determinants of the renal tubular synthesis/release of dopamine are probably sodium intake and intracellular sodium. Dopamine exerts its actions via two families of cell surface receptors, D1-like receptors comprising D1R and D5R, and D2-like receptors comprising D2R, D3R, and D4R, and by interactions with other G protein-coupled receptors. D1-like receptors are linked to vasodilation, while the effect of D2-like receptors on the vasculature is variable and probably dependent upon the state of nerve activity. Dopamine secreted into the tubular lumen acts mainly via D1-like receptors in an autocrine/paracrine manner to regulate ion transport in the proximal and distal nephron. These effects are mediated mainly by tubular mechanisms and augmented by hemodynamic mechanisms. The natriuretic effect of D1-like receptors is caused by inhibition of ion transport in the apical and basolateral membranes. D2-like receptors participate in the inhibition of ion transport during conditions of euvolemia and moderate volume expansion. Dopamine also controls ion transport and blood pressure by regulating the production of reactive oxygen species and the inflammatory response. Essential hypertension is associated with abnormalities in dopamine production, receptor number, and/or posttranslational modification.

Inhibitory effect of the D(3) dopamine receptor on insulin receptor expression and function in vascular smooth muscle cells

BACKGROUND

Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation is regulated by numerous hormones and humoral factors. Our previous study found that stimulation of D(1)-like dopamine receptors inhibited insulin receptor expression and function in VSMCs. We hypothesize that there is also an interaction between D(3) dopamine and insulin receptors, i.e., stimulation of the D(3) receptor inhibits insulin receptor expression and function.

METHODS

Receptor expression was determined by immunoblotting, immunohistochemisty, and reverse transcriptase-PCR; VSMC proliferation was determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and cell number.

RESULTS

Insulin receptor protein is increased in the aorta of D(3) receptor deficient mice. Stimulation of the D(3) receptor inhibited insulin receptor mRNA and protein expression and insulin-mediated VSMC proliferation, and increased protein kinase A (PKA) activity, insulin receptor phosphorylation, and degradation in immortalized aortic VSMCs (A10 cells). These effects were blocked by a PKA inhibitor, indicating that the D(3) receptor-mediated decrease in insulin receptor expression was related to a decrease in transcription/post-transcription and increased degradation, involving PKA signaling.

CONCLUSIONS

D(3) receptor stimulation may be a target to reduce the adverse effect of insulin in hypertension by inhibition of insulin receptor expression and function in arterial VSMCs.

Reduction of renal dopamine receptor expression in obese Zucker rats: role of sex and angiotensin II

Dopamine produced by renal proximal tubules increases sodium excretion via a decrease in renal sodium reabsorption. Dopamine natriuresis is impaired in obese Zucker rats; however, the mechanism is not fully understood. To test the hypothesis that renal expression of one or more of the subtypes are altered in these rats, we measured whole kidney protein levels by immunoblotting of D1-like (D1R and D5R) and D2-like (D2R, D3R, and D4R) dopamine receptors in both male and female obese and lean Zucker rats. In obese males on 1% NaCl diet, D1R, D2R, D4R, and D5R were decreased, while D3R was increased, relative to lean rats. Under a 4% NaCl diet, D2R and D3R levels in obese rats were restored to lean levels. 4% NaCl diet reduced D5R in both body types, relative to 1% NaCl diet. Female rats had higher expression of D1R and D3R than did male; however, the sex difference for D1R was markedly blunted in obese rats. In obese rats, dietary candesartan (angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker) normalized downregulated D1R and D2R, but either decreased (D3R), did not affect (D4R), or further downregulated (D5R) the other subtypes. Candesartan also decreased D4R in lean rats. In summary, reduced renal protein levels of D1R, D2R, D4R, and D5R in obese Zucker rats could induce salt sensitivity and elevate blood pressure. Increased angiotensin II type 1 receptor activity may be mechanistically involved in the decreased expression of D1R and D2R in obese rats. Finally, reduced D1R and D3R in male rats may contribute to sex differences in blood pressure.

Glycaemic control with insulin prevents the reduced renal dopamine D1 receptor expression and function in streptozotocin-induced diabetes

BACKGROUND

It was demonstrated in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats that the D(1) receptor agonist failed to promote sodium excretion as a result of reduced renal D(1) receptor expression and decreased receptor G protein coupling. The present study examined the influence of glycaemic control with insulin on the renal D(1) receptor dysfunction in STZ-induced type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

Renal function, blood pressure, the natriuretic response to 5% volume expansion (VE) and the effects of the D(1) receptor agonist fenoldopam on natriuresis and on Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity in renal tubules were evaluated in uninephrectomized and sham-operated Wistar rats treated with STZ and compared with controls and STZ-treated rats made euglycaemic with insulin. D(1) receptor immunohistochemistry and protein abundance by western blot were also determined in all groups.

RESULTS

Treatment of sham and uninephrectomized rats with STZ caused a 4-fold increase in glucose plasma levels compared to controls and euglycaemic diabetic rats. A blunted natriuretic response to VE was observed in both sham and uninephrectomized hyperglycaemic diabetic rats, and this was accompanied by failure of fenoldopam to increase natriuresis and to inhibit renal Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity. In contrast, in both sham and uninephrectomized euglycaemic diabetic rats, the natriuretic response to VE, the fenoldopam-induced natriuresis and the accompanied inhibition of Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity were similar to those of the corresponding controls. D(1) receptor immunodetection and protein abundance were reduced in hyperglycaemic diabetic rats, but not in euglycaemic diabetic animals.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that the renal expression and natriuretic response to D(1) receptor activation is compromised in both sham and uninephrectomized rats with STZ-induced diabetes. These abnormalities were prevented by lowering glucose blood levels with insulin, thus providing evidence for the involvement of hyperglycaemia in the disturbances that underlie the compromised dopamine-sensitive natriuresis and increase of blood pressure in type 1 diabetes.

Exercise activates redox-sensitive transcription factors and restores renal D1 receptor function in old rats

We have previously reported that age-associated oxidative stress via protein kinase C (PKC) increases D1 receptor (D1R) phosphorylation and causes D1R-G protein uncoupling in renal proximal tubules (RPTs) of old Fischer 344 rats. This results in reduced ability of D1R agonist SKF-38393 to inhibit Na+-K+-ATPase in RPTs of old rats. Here, we studied the effect of treadmill exercise on markers of oxidative stress, PKC, D1R phosphorylation, D1R-G protein coupling, and Na+-K+-ATPase activity in RPTs of adult and old rats. We found increased levels of malondialdehyde, a marker of oxidative stress, in RPTs of old rats, which decreased during exercise. Nuclear levels of nuclear erythroid-related factor (Nrf)-2 and nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB in RPTs, transcription factors involved in antioxidant enzyme gene transcription, increased in exercised old rats. This was accompanied by an increase in the activity and expression of antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase and heme oxygenase-1. Age-related decrease in the levels of D1R mRNAs and proteins was attenuated during exercise. Furthermore, exercise in old rats decreased PKC activity and D1R phosphorylation and increased SKF-38393-mediated [35S]guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) binding (an index of D1R-G protein coupling). SKF-38393 also caused inhibition of Na+-K+-ATPase in these animals. Also, exercise caused a decrease in proteinuria and increase in phosphaturia in old rats. These results suggest beneficial effects of exercise in terms of increasing antioxidant defenses, decreasing oxidative stress, and improving kidney function in general and D1R function in particular in aging. Both Nrf-2 and NF-kappaB seem to play key role in this phenomenon.

D1-like receptors inhibit insulin-induced vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation via down-regulation of insulin receptor expression

OBJECTIVE

Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation is central to the development of vascular diseases, including hypertension, which is regulated by numerous hormones and humoral factors. Our previous study showed that the stimulatory effect of norepinephrine on VSMC proliferation is inhibited by D1-like receptors and the D3 dopamine receptor, a member of the D2-like receptor family. Insulin is a proliferative hormone but it is not known if there is any interaction between insulin and D1-like receptors. We hypothesized that Dl-like receptors may have an inhibitory effect on the insulin-induced VSMC proliferation; aberrant insulin and Dl-like receptor functions could be involved in the pathogenesis of essential hypertension.

METHODS

VSMC proliferation was determined by [H]-thymidine incorporation; insulin receptor mRNA and protein expressions were determined by RT-PCR, immunoblotting, and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Insulin increased VSMC proliferation in immortalized aortic A10 cells, determined by [H]-thymidine incorporation. Although the D1-like receptor, by itself, had no effect on VSMC proliferation, stimulation with fenoldopam, a D1-like receptor agonist, inhibited the stimulatory effect of insulin. The inhibitory effect of fenoldopam on insulin-mediated VSMC proliferation was receptor specific, because its effect could be blocked by SCH23390, a D1-like receptor antagonist. Fenoldopam also inhibited insulin receptor mRNA and protein expression, which was time dependent and concentration dependent. A PKC or MAP kinase inhibitor blocked the inhibitory effect of fenoldopam on insulin receptor expression, indicating that PKC and MAP kinase were involved in the signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

The inhibitory effect of D1-like receptors on insulin-mediated VSMC proliferation may play an important role in the regulation of blood pressure.

Insulin increases D5 dopamine receptor expression and function in renal proximal tubule cells from Wistar-Kyoto rats

BACKGROUND

Ion transport in the renal proximal tubule (RPT) is regulated by numerous hormones and humoral factors, including insulin and dopamine. Previous studies show an interaction between insulin and the D(1) receptor. Because both D(1) and D(5) receptors belong to the D(1)-like receptor subfamily, it is possible that an interaction between insulin and the D(5) dopamine receptor exists in RPT cells from normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs).

METHODS

D(5) receptor expression in immortalized RPT cells from WKY and SHRs was quantified by immunoblotting and D(5) receptor function by measuring Na(+)-K(+) ATPase activity.

RESULTS

Insulin increased the expression of the D(5) receptor. Stimulation with insulin (10(-7) mol/l) for 24 h increased D(5) receptor expression in RPT cells from WKY rats. This effect of insulin on D(5) receptor expression was aberrant in RPT cells from SHRs. The stimulatory effect of insulin on D(5) receptor expression in RPT cells from WKY rats was inhibited by a protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor (PKC inhibitor peptide 19-31, 10(-6) mol/l) or a phosphatidylinositol 3 (PI3) kinase inhibitor (wortmannin, 10(-6) mol/l), indicating that both PKC and PI3 kinase were involved in the signaling pathway. Stimulation of the D(5) receptor heterologously expressed in HEK293 cells with fenoldopam (10(-7) mol/l/15 min) inhibited Na(+)-K(+) ATPase activity, whereas pretreatment with insulin (10(-7) mol/l/24 h) increased the D(5) receptor-mediated inhibition.

CONCLUSIONS

Insulin and D(5) receptors interact to regulate renal sodium transport; an aberrant interaction between insulin and D(5) receptor may participate in the pathogenesis of hypertension.

Signaling cascade of insulin-induced stimulation of L-dopa uptake in renal proximal tubule cells

The inward l-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-dopa) transport supplies renal proximal tubule cells (PTCs) with the precursor for dopamine synthesis. We have previously described insulin-induced stimulation of L-dopa uptake into PTCs. In the present paper we examined insulin-related signaling pathways involved in the increase of l-dopa transport into isolated rat PTCs. Insulin (50-500 microU/ml) increased L-dopa uptake by PTCs, reaching the maximal increment (60% over the control) at 200 microU/ml. At this concentration, insulin also increased insulin receptor tyrosine phosphorylation. Both effects were abrogated by the tyrosine kinase inhibitor genistein (5 microM). In line, inhibition of the protein tyrosine phosphatase by pervanadate (0.2-100 microM) caused a concentration-dependent increase in both the uptake of L-dopa (up to 400%) and protein tyrosine phosphorylation. A synergistic effect between pervanadate and insulin on L-dopa uptake was observed only when threshold (0.2 microM), but not maximal (5 microM), concentrations of pervanadate were assayed. Insulin-induced stimulation of L-dopa uptake was also abolished by inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K; 100 nM wortmannin, and 25 microM LY-294002) and protein kinase C (PKC; 1 microM RO-318220). Insulin-induced activation of PKC-zeta was confirmed in vitro by its translocation from the cytosol to the membrane fraction, and in vivo by immunohistochemistry studies. Insulin caused a wortmannin-sensitive increase in Akt/protein kinase B (Akt/PKB) phosphorylation and a dose-dependent translocation of Akt/PKB to the membrane fraction. Our findings suggest that insulin activates PKC-zeta, and Akt/PKB downstream of PI3K, and that these pathways contribute to the insulin-induced increase of L-dopa uptake into PTCs.

Renal proximal tubules from old Fischer 344 rats grow into epithelial cells in cultures and exhibit increased oxidative stress and reduced D1 receptor function

Earlier we reported defects in D1 receptor function in renal proximal tubules (RPTs) of aged Fischer 344 (F344) and obese Zucker rats. However, the defects in the receptor function in RPTs of obese Zucker rats do not pass onto primary cultures of RPTs from these animals. Here, we determined whether the defects in D1 receptor function in RPTs of aged F344 rats pass onto the primary cultures. RPTs from aged (24-mo) and adult (6-mo) F344 rats were grown into primary cultures. The microscopic studies showed that cells in cultures from adult and old rats were healthy as determined by the shape and size of the cells and nuclei. D1 receptor agonist SKF-38393 produced inhibition of (86)Rb (rubidium) uptake, index of Na-K-ATPase activity, in cells from adult rats, but this was reduced in old rats. Also, SKF-38393 increased the [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding, index of receptor activation, in the membranes of cells from adult rats but to a lesser extent from old rats. Furthermore, there was a downward trend in the levels of D1 receptor numbers and in the receptor proteins in old rats. Interestingly, gp(91phox) subunit of NADPH oxidase and cellular protein carbonyl levels (oxidative stress marker) were higher in cultures from old rats. These results show that RPTs from adult and old F344 rats grow into epithelial cells in cultures. Furthermore, cells in cultures from old rats are at a higher level of oxidative stress, which may be contributing to the reduced D1 receptor function in the cells from old compared with adult rats.

[Expression and regulation of renal sodium-cotransporters and -antiporters, and related-transport proteins]

The authors' researches have been focused on pathogenic, physiological and biochemical mechanisms in hypertension and diabetes. Studies on hypertension were performed using salt-sensitive hypertensive Dahl rats as compared with the corresponding normotensive rats. Especially, implication with mobilization of electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium in hypertension gave rise to provocative to the author. Furthermore, complications of diabetes with hypertension were themes for the authors' researches. Thus, sodium-dependent glucose transport has been studied on sodium-dependent glucose transporters such as SGLT1 and SGLT2 using cell lines of porcelain renal cell, LLC-PK(1), and murine renal cell, NRK-52E. Relationship between magnesium mobilization and NO in hypertension has been explored using renal epithelial cell-lines and salt-sensitive hypertensive Dahl rats in the latter half of the author's research life.

Insulin causes renal dopamine D1 receptor desensitization via GRK2-mediated receptor phosphorylation involving phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and protein kinase C

The renal dopamine system plays an important role in sodium homeostasis and a defect in dopamine D1 receptor (D1R) function is present in hypertension, diabetes, and aging. Our previous studies in hyperinsulinemic animals and in renal cell cultures treated with insulin showed decrease in D1R number and defective coupling to G proteins; however, the exact mechanisms remained unknown. Therefore, we investigated insulin-mediated D1R desensitization and underlying molecular mechanism in opossum kidney (OK) cells. Chronic exposure (24 h) of OK cells to 10 nM insulin caused significant decrease in D1R number and agonist affinity. The D1R was hyperserine phosphorylated, uncoupled from G proteins and SKF38393 , a D1R agonist, failed to stimulate G proteins and inhibit Na-K-ATPase activity. Insulin increased protein kinase C (PKC) activity and caused G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2) translocation to the membranes. Tyrosine kinase inhibitor genistein and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor wortmannin blocked insulin-mediated PKC activation and GRK2 membranous translocation. In addition to genistein and wortmannin, GRK2 membranous tranlocation was also blocked by PKC inhibitor chelerythrine chloride and GRK2-specific siRNA. Genistein, wortmannin, chelerythrine chloride, and GRK2 siRNA abrogated D1R serine phosphorylation and normalized D1R expression and affinity in insulin-treated cells. Furthermore, these inhibitors and siRNA restored D1R G protein coupling and ability of SKF38393 to inhibit Na-K-ATPase activity. In conclusion, insulin-induced D1R desensitization involves PI3K, PKC, and GRK2. Insulin activates PI3K-PKC-GRK2 cascade, causing D1R serine phosphorylation, which leads to D1R downregulation and uncoupling from G proteins, and results in the failure of SKF38393 to stimulate G proteins and inhibit Na-K-ATPase activity.

Animal and human tissue Na,K-ATPase in normal and insulin-resistant states: regulation, behaviour and interpretative hypothesis on NEFA effects

The sodium(Na)- and potassium(K)-activated adenosine-triphosphatase (Na,K-ATPase) is a membrane enzyme that energizes the Na-pump by hydrolysing adenosine triphosphate and wasting energy as heat, so playing a role in thermogenesis and energy balance. Na,K-ATPase regulation by insulin is controversial; in tissue of hyperglycemic-hyperinsulinemic ob/ob mice, we reported a reduction, whereas in streptozotocin-treated hypoinsulinemic-diabetic Swiss and ob/ob mice we found an increased activity, which is against a genetic defect and suggests a regulation by hyperinsulinemia. In human adipose tissue from obese patients, Na,K-ATPase activity was reduced and negatively correlated with body mass index, oral glucose tolerance test-insulinemic area and blood pressure. We hypothesized that obesity is associated with tissue Na,K-ATPase reduction, apparently linked to hyperinsulinemia, which may repress or inactivate the enzyme, thus opposing thyroid hormones and influencing thermogenesis and obesity development. Insulin action on Na,K-ATPase, in vivo, might be mediated by the high level of non-esterified fatty acids, which are circulating enzyme inhibitors and increase in obesity, diabetes and hypertension. In this paper, we analyse animal and human tissue Na,K-ATPase, its level, and its regulation and behaviour in some hyperinsulinemic and insulin-resistant states; moreover, we discuss the link of the enzyme with non-esterified fatty acids and attempt to interpret and organize in a coherent view the whole body of the exhaustive literature on this complicated topic.

Phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor ameliorates renal resistance to atrial natriuretic peptide associated with obesity and hyperleptinemia

BACKGROUND

Abnormal neurohormonal regulation of renal sodium handling plays an important role in obesity-associated hypertension. We investigated the effect of experimental obesity on renal response to atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP).

METHODS

The effect of ANP was studied in three groups of rats: (1) lean controls, (2) animals made obese by a highly palatable diet, (3) rats treated with adipose tissue hormone, leptin, for 7 days to reproduce hyperleptinemia observed in obesity.

RESULTS

ANP administered at a dose of 50 pmol/kg min(-1) induced about a 3-fold lower increase in Na+ and cGMP excretion in obese and leptin-treated rats than in the control group. ANP decreased Na+,K+-ATPase activity in the renal medulla only in the control group. Natriuretic effect of exogenous cGMP was also impaired in obese and leptin-treated rats. In contrast, hydrolysis-resistant cGMP derivative, 8-bromo-cGMP exerted comparable natriuretic effects in all groups. Neutral endopeptidase inhibitor, phosphoramidon, and ANP clearance receptor antagonist, C-ANP, increased urinary ANP excretion in all groups to a similar level, but their natriuretic effect was impaired in obese and leptin-treated groups. A specific inhibitor of cGMP-degrading phosphodiesterase, zaprinast, had comparable natriuretic and Na+,K+-ATPase-lowering effects in all groups and restored normal sensitivity to ANP.

CONCLUSIONS

(1) Dietary-induced obesity is accompanied by impaired natriuretic effect of ANP, (2) ANP resistance in obesity may be accounted for by increased leptin level, (3) accelerated degradation of cGMP may contribute to ANP resistance associated with obesity and hyperleptinemia, suggesting that inhibiting cGMP-specific phosphodiesterases may be useful in the treatment of obesity-associated hypertension.

Insulin treatment enhances AT1receptor function in OK cells

Increased renal sodium retention is considered a major risk factor contributing to hypertension associated with chronic hyperinsulinemia and obesity. However, the molecular mechanism involved is not understood. The present study investigates the effect of insulin treatment on AT1receptor expression and ANG II-induced stimulation of Na/H exchanger (NHE) and Na-K-ATPase (NKA) in opossum kidney (OK) cells, a proximal tubule cell line. The presence of the AT1receptors in OK cells was confirmed by the specific binding of125I-sar-ANG II and by detecting ∼43-kDa protein on Western blot analysis with AT1receptor antibody and blocking peptide as well as by expression of AT1receptor mRNA as determined by RT-PCR. Insulin treatment (100 nM for 24 h) caused an increase in125I-sar-ANG II binding, AT1receptor protein content, and mRNA levels. The whole cell lysate and membrane showed similar insulin-induced increase in the AT1receptor protein expression, which was blocked by genistein (100 nM), a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, and cycloheximide (1.5 μg/ml), a protein synthesis inhibitor. Determination of ethyl isopropyl amiloride-sensitive22Na+uptake, a measure of the NHE activity, revealed that ANG II (1–100 pM)-induced stimulation of NHE in insulin-treated cells was significantly greater than in the control cells. Similarly, ANG II (1–100 pM)-induced stimulation of ouabain-sensitive86Rb+uptake, a measure of NKA activity in insulin-treated cells, was significantly greater than in the control cells. ANG II stimulation of both the transporters was blocked by AT1receptor antagonist losartan, suggesting the involvement of AT1receptors. Thus chronic insulin treatment causes upregulation of AT1receptors, which evoked ANG II-induced stimulation of NHE and NKA. We propose that insulin-induced increase in the renal AT1receptor function serves as a mechanism responsible for the increased renal sodium reabsorption and thus may contribute to development of hypertension in conditions associated with hyperinsulinemia.

Renal dopamine D(1) receptor dysfunction is acquired and not inherited in obese Zucker rats

In essential hypertension, the defect in renal dopamine (DA) D(1) receptor function is intrinsic to proximal tubules as this phenomenon is also seen in primary proximal tubule cultures from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and essential hypertensive patients. Previously, a defect was reported in renal D(1) receptor function in obese Zucker rats. In the present study, we sought to determine whether this D(1) receptor dysfunction is intrinsic in these animals. In primary proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTECs) from lean and obese rats, DA inhibited Na-K-ATPase (NKA) activity in PTECs from both groups of rats. Basal NKA activity, D(1) receptor protein expression, and their coupling to G proteins were similar in cells from both groups. However, when PTECs from lean and obese rats were cultured in 20% serum from obese rats, DA failed to inhibit NKA activity, which was accompanied by a reduction in D(1) receptor expression and a defect in D(1) receptor-G protein coupling. No such defects in the inhibitory effect of DA on NKA activity, D(1) receptor numbers, or coupling were seen when PTECs from both lean and obese rats were grown in 20% serum from lean or rosiglitazone-treated obese (RTO) rats. RTO rat serum had normal blood glucose and reduced plasma levels of insulin compared with serum from obese rats. Furthermore, chronic insulin treatment of PTECs from lean and obese rats caused an attenuation in DA-induced NKA inhibition, a decrease in D(1) receptor expression, and D(1) receptor-G protein uncoupling. These results suggest that defective D(1) receptor function in obese Zucker rats is not inherited but contributed to by hyperinsulinemia and/or other circulating factors associated with obesity.

Diminished natriuretic response to dopamine D1 receptor agonist, SKF-38393 in obese Zucker rats

Dopamine causes natriuresis and diuresis via activation of D1 receptors located on the renal proximal tubules and subsequent inhibition of the sodium transporters, Na-H exchanger and Na+/K+ ATPase. We have reported that dopamine fails to inhibit the activities of these two transporters in the obese Zucker rats (OZR). The present study was designed to examine the functional consequence of this phenomenon by determining the natriuretic and diuretic response to D1 receptor activation in lean Zucker rats (LZR) and OZR. In 11-12 week-old OZR and LZR, natriuretic and diuretic responses to intravenously administered D1 receptor agonist, SKF 38393 (3 microg/kg/min for 30 min) were measured under Inactin anesthesia. Plasma insulin and glucose levels were significantly higher in the obese rats as compared to the lean rats. Intravenous infusion of SKF 38393 caused significant increases in urine flow, urinary sodium excretion (U(Na)V), fractional excretion of sodium (FE(Na)), and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in the lean rats. However, the natriuretic and diuretic response to SKF 38393 was markedly blunted in OZR. Infusion of SKF 38393 did not cause significant changes in the mean blood pressure and heart rate in either of the two groups. We suggest that the diminished natriuretic response to D1 receptor activation in OZR is the consequence of the previously reported defect in the D1 receptor-G-protein coupling and the failure of dopamine to inhibit the sodium transporters in these animals.

Reduced renal dopamine D1 receptor function in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Dopamine, via activation of renal D(1) receptors, inhibits the activities of Na-K-ATPase and Na/H exchanger and subsequently increases sodium excretion. Decreased renal dopamine production and sodium excretion are associated with type I diabetes. However, it is not known whether the response to D(1) receptor activation is altered in type I diabetes. The present study was designed to examine the effect of streptozotocin-induced type I diabetes on renal D(1) receptor expression and function. Streptozotocin treatment of Sprague-Dawley rats caused a fourfold increase in plasma levels of glucose along with a significant decrease in insulin levels compared with control rats. Intravenous administration of SKF-38393, a D(1) receptor agonist, caused a threefold increase in sodium excretion in control rats. However, SKF-38393 failed to produce natriuresis in diabetic rats. SKF-38393 caused a concentration-dependent inhibition of Na-K-ATPase activity in renal proximal tubules of control rats. However, the ability of SKF-38393 to inhibit Na-K-ATPase activity was markedly diminished in diabetic rats. D(1) receptor numbers and protein abundance as determined by [(3)H]SCH-23390 ligand binding and Western blot analysis were markedly reduced in diabetic rats compared with control rats. Moreover, SKF-38393 failed to stimulate GTP gamma S binding in proximal tubular membranes from diabetic rats compared with control rats. We conclude that the natriuretic response to D(1) receptor activation is reduced in type I diabetes as a result of a decrease in D(1) receptor expression and defective receptor G protein coupling. These abnormalities may contribute to the sodium retention associated with type I diabetes.