Characterization and functional analysis of the rat endothelin-1 promoter

Molecular determinants of the profibrogenic effects of endothelin-1 in pancreatic stellate cells

AIM: To gain molecular insights into the expression and functions of endothelin-1 (ET-1) in pancreatic stellate cells (PSC).

METHODS: PSCs were isolated from rat pancreas tissue, cultured, and stimulated with ET-1 or other extracellular mediators. Cell proliferation was assessed by measuring the incorporation of 5-bromo-2’-deoxyuridine into DNA and cell migration was studied in a transwell chamber assay. Gene expression at the level of mRNA was quantified by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Expression and phosphorylation of proteins were monitored by immunoblotting, applying an infrared imaging technology. ET-1 levels in cell culture supernatants were determined by an enzyme immunometric assay. To study DNA binding of individual transcription factors, electrophoretic mobility shift assays were performed.

RESULTS: Among several mediators tested, transforming growth factor-β1 and tumour necrosis factor-α displayed the strongest stimulatory effects on ET-1 secretion. The cytokines induced binding of Smad3 and NF-κB, respectively, to oligonucleotides derived from the ET-1 promoter, implicating both transcription factors in the induction of ET-1 gene expression. In accordance with previous studies, ET-1 was found to stimulate migration but not proliferation of PSC. Stimulation of ET-1 receptors led to the activation of two distinct mitogen-activated protein kinases, p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK)1/2, as well as the transcription factor activator protein-1. At the mRNA level, enhanced expression of the PSC activation marker, α-smooth muscle actin and two proinflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6, was observed.

CONCLUSION: This study provides novel lines of evidence for profibrogenic and proinflammatory actions of ET-1 in the pancreas, encouraging further studies with ET-1 inhibitors in chronic pancreatitis.

Atrial natriuretic peptide suppresses endothelin gene expression and proliferation in cardiac fibroblasts through a GATA4-dependent mechanism

AIMS

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is a hormone that has both antihypertrophic and antifibrotic properties in the heart. We hypothesized that myocyte-derived ANP inhibits endothelin (ET) gene expression in fibroblasts.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We have investigated the mechanism(s) involved in the antiproliferative effect of ANP on cardiac fibroblasts in a cell culture model. We found that cardiac myocytes inhibited DNA synthesis in co-cultured cardiac fibroblasts as did treatment with the ET-1 antagonist BQ610. The effect of co-culture was reversed by antibody directed against ANP or the ANP receptor antagonist HS-142-1. ANP inhibited the expression of the ET-1 gene and ET-1 gene promoter activity in cultured fibroblasts. The site of the inhibition was localized to a GATA-binding site positioned between -132 and -135 upstream from the transcription start site. GATA4 expression was demonstrated in cardiac fibroblasts, GATA4 bound the ET-1 promoter both in vitro and in vivo, and siRNA-mediated knockdown of GATA4 inhibited ET-1 expression. ET-1 treatment resulted in increased levels of phospho-serine(105) GATA4 in cardiac fibroblasts and this induction was partially suppressed by co-treatment with ANP.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, these findings suggest that locally produced ET-1 serves as an autocrine stimulator of fibroblast proliferation, that ANP produced in neighbouring myocytes serves as a paracrine inhibitor of this proliferation, and that the latter effect operates through a reduction in GATA4 phosphorylation and coincident reduction in GATA4-dependent transcriptional activity.

Tetramethylpyrazine inhibits angiotensin II-increased NAD(P)H oxidase activity and subsequent proliferation in rat aortic smooth muscle cells

Tetramethylpyrazine (TMP) is the major component extracted from the Chinese herb, Chuanxiong, which is widely used in China for the treatment of cardiovascular problems. The aims of this study were to examine whether TMP may alter angiotenisn II (Ang II)-induced proliferation and to identify the putative underlying signaling pathways in rat aortic smooth muscle cells. Cultured rat aortic smooth muscle cells were preincubated with TMP and then stimulated with Ang II, [3H]-thymidine incorporation and the ET-1 expression was examined. Ang II increased DNA synthesis which was inhibited by TMP (1-100 microM). TMP inhibited the Ang II-induced ET-1 mRNA levels and ET-1 secretion. TMP also inhibited Ang II-increased NAD(P)H oxidase activity, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and the ERK phosphorylation. Furthermore, TMP and antioxidants such as Trolox and diphenylene iodonium decreased Ang II-induced ERK phosphorylation, and activator protein-1 reporter activity. In summary, we demonstrate for the first time that TMP inhibits Ang II-induced proliferation and ET-1, partially by interfering with the ERK pathway via attenuation of Ang II-increased NAD(P)H oxidase and ROS generation. Thus, this study delivers important new insight in the molecular pathways that may contribute to the proposed beneficial effects of TMP in cardiovascular disease.

Physiology of Local Renin-Angiotensin Systems

Since the first identification of renin by Tigerstedt and Bergmann in 1898, the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has been extensively studied. The current view of the system is characterized by an increased complexity, as evidenced by the discovery of new functional components and pathways of the RAS. In recent years, the pathophysiological implications of the system have been the main focus of attention, and inhibitors of the RAS such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin (ANG) II receptor blockers have become important clinical tools in the treatment of cardiovascular and renal diseases such as hypertension, heart failure, and diabetic nephropathy. Nevertheless, the tissue RAS also plays an important role in mediating diverse physiological functions. These focus not only on the classical actions of ANG on the cardiovascular system, namely, the maintenance of cardiovascular homeostasis, but also on other functions. Recently, the research efforts studying these noncardiovascular effects of the RAS have intensified, and a large body of data are now available to support the existence of numerous organ-based RAS exerting diverse physiological effects. ANG II has direct effects at the cellular level and can influence, for example, cell growth and differentiation, but also may play a role as a mediator of apoptosis. These universal paracrine and autocrine actions may be important in many organ systems and can mediate important physiological stimuli. Transgenic overexpression and knock-out strategies of RAS genes in animals have also shown a central functional role of the RAS in prenatal development. Taken together, these findings may become increasingly important in the study of organ physiology but also for a fresh look at the implications of these findings for organ pathophysiology.

Inverse regulation of preproendothelin-1 and endothelin-converting enzyme-1beta genes in cardiac cells by mechanical load

Mechanical stretch and para- and/or autocrine factors, including endothelin-1, induce hypertrophy of cardiac myocytes and proliferation of fibroblasts. To investigate the effect of mechanical load on endothelin-1 production and endothelin system gene expression in neonatal rat ventricular myocytes and fibroblasts, we exposed cells to cyclic mechanical stretch in vitro (0.5 Hz, 10-25% elongation, from 1 min to 24 h). Endothelin-1 peptide levels were measured from culture media of myocytes and fibroblasts and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (positive control) by specific radioimmunoassay. Preproendothelin-1 promoter activity was measured via transfection of reporter plasmids and mRNA levels with Northern blot analysis or quantitative RT-PCR. Activity of extracellular signal-regulated kinase was quantified with specific kinase assay. We found that stretching of myocytes activated preproendothelin-1 gene expression, including promoter activation, transient mRNA level increases, and augmented endothelin-1 secretion. In contrast, preproendothelin-1 gene expression was inhibited in stretched fibroblasts. Endothelin-converting enzyme-1beta mRNA levels elevated in stretched fibroblasts but decreased in stretched myocytes. Endothelin receptor type A mRNA levels declined in stretched myocytes, whereas levels were below detection in fibroblasts. Stretch activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase in myocytes, and when the kinase activity was pharmacologically inhibited, the preproendothelin-1 induction was suppressed. Transient overexpression of mitogen-activated ERK-activating kinase-1 induced preproendothelin-1 promoter in myocytes. In summary, mechanical stretch distinctly regulates endothelin system gene expression in cardiac myocytes and fibroblasts. The inhibition of the endothelin system may affect cardiac mechanotransduction and therefore provides an approach in treatment of load-induced cardiac pathology.

Subdepressor dose of benidipine ameliorates diabetic cardiac remodeling accompanied by normalization of upregulated endothelin system in rats

We investigated whether benidipine, a long-acting calcium channel blocker (CCB), can normalize cardiac expression profiles of the endothelin (ET)-1 system in insulin-resistant diabetes. Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats, a model of human Type 2 diabetes, were treated for 12 wk with vehicle or benidipine (3 mg.kg(-1).day(-1)). OLETF rats exhibited a significant increase in ET-1 in plasma and left ventricular (LV) tissues compared with nondiabetic controls. Expression of prepro-ET-1, ET-converting enzyme, and ET(A) and ET(B) receptors in LV tissues was also significantly higher in OLETF rats. The two MAPKs, JNK and p38MAPK, both of which are activated by ET-1, were more abundantly expressed in OLETF rat LV tissues. All these alterations were reversed to nondiabetic levels when OLETF rats were treated with the subdepressor dose of benidipine. Furthermore, benidipine therapy resulted in hindering cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and cardiac perivascular fibrosis in OLETF rats. The beneficial actions of benidipine at the subdepressor dose on cardiac remodeling in insulin-resistant diabetes may involve normalization of the upregulated ET-1 system.

Effects of ambient air particles on the endothelin system in human pulmonary epithelial cells (A549)

Inhalation of urban particles results in higher circulating levels of the vasoconstrictor peptide endothelin-1 (ET-1), which may account for the adverse cardiovascular impacts associated with air pollution. The objective of this study was to examine the direct effects of urban particles on the production of ET-1 by human epithelial cells (A549). A549 cells were exposed to TiO(2), SiO(2), Ottawa urban particulate matter EHC-93, and fractions of the urban particles. The levels of ET-1, interleukin-8 (IL-8) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the culture medium were detected by ELISA. The mRNA levels of preproET-1, endothelin converting enzyme (ECE-1), ETa receptor and ETb receptor, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-2), tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP-2), and heat shock protein (HSP-70) were determined by quantitative real-time RT-PCR. Cluster analysis of the variables identified similarities in the patterns of effects. Cluster I comprised variables that were primarily inhibited by particles: ET-1 and MMP-2 mRNAs, ET-1 and bigET-1 peptides, and cell viability. Clusters II and III comprised variables that were either inhibited or induced, depending on the test material: HSP-70, ETaR and ECE mRNAs, and IL-8 and VEGF proteins. Cluster IV comprised variables that were mainly induced by particle preparations: ETbR and TIMP-2 mRNAs. The decreased expression of preproET-1 in A549 cells suggests that epithelial cells may not be the source of higher pulmonary ET-1 spillover in the circulation measured in vivo in response to inhaled urban particles. However, higher ECE-1 in A549 cells after exposure to particles suggests an increased ability to process bigET-1 into the mature ET-1 peptide, while increased receptor expression implies higher responsiveness. The increased release of IL-8 and VEGF by epithelial cells in response to particles could possibly upregulate ET-1 production in the adjacent pulmonary capillary endothelial cells, with concomitant increased ET-1 spillover in the systemic circulation.

Resveratrol inhibits angiotensin II-induced endothelin-1 gene expression and subsequent proliferation in rat aortic smooth muscle cells

Resveratrol is a phytoestrogen naturally found in grapes and is the major constituent of wine thought to have a cardioprotective effect. The aims of this study were to examine whether resveratrol alters angiotenisn II-induced cell proliferation and endothelin-1 gene expression and to identify the putative underlying signaling pathways in rat aortic smooth muscle cells. Cultured rat aortic smooth muscle cells were preincubated with resveratrol then stimulated with angiotensin II, after which [3H]thymidine incorporation and endothelin-1 gene expression were examined. The intracellular mechanism of resveratrol in cellular proliferation and endothelin-1 gene expression was elucidated by examining the phosphorylation level of angiotensin II-induced extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). The inhibitory effects of resveratrol (1-100 microM) on angiotensin II-induced DNA synthesis and endothelin-1 gene expression were demonstrated with Northern blot and promoter activity assays. Measurements of 2'7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate, a redox-senstive fluorescent dye, showed a resveratrol-mediated inhibition of intracellular reactive oxygen species generated by the effects of angiotensin II. The inductive properties of angiotensin II and H2O2 on ERK phosphorylation and activator protein-1-mediated reporter activity were found reversed with resveratrol and antioxidants such as N-acetyl-cysteine. In summary, we speculate that resveratrol inhibits angiotensin II-induced cell proliferation and endothelin-1 gene expression, and does so in a manner which involves the disruption of the ERK pathway via attenuation of reactive oxygen species generation. Thus, this study provides important insight into the molecular pathways that may contribute to the proposed beneficial effects of resveratrol on the cardiovascular system.

17beta-estradiol downregulates angiotensin-II-induced endothelin-1 gene expression in rat aortic smooth muscle cells

It is well documented that 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) exerts a cardiovascular protective effect. A possible role of E(2) in the regulation of endothelin-1 (ET-1) production has been reported. However, the complex mechanisms by which E(2) inhibits ET-1 expression are not completely understood. The aims of this study were to examine whether E(2) may alter angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced cell proliferation and ET-1 gene expression and to identify the putative underlying signaling pathways in rat aortic smooth muscle cells. Cultured rat aortic smooth muscle cells were preincubated with E(2), then stimulated with Ang II, and [(3)H]thymidine incorporation and ET-1 gene expression were examined. The effect of E(2) on Ang-II-induced extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation was tested to elucidate the intracellular mechanism of E(2) in proliferation and ET-1 gene expression. Ang II increased DNA synthesis which was inhibited with E(2) (1- 100 nM). E(2), but not 17alpha-estradiol, inhibited the Ang-II-induced ET-1 gene expression as revealed by Northern blotting and promoter activity assay. This effect was prevented by coincubation with the estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182,780 (1 microM). E(2) also inhibited Ang-II-increased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) as measured by a redox-sensitive fluorescent dye, 2',7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate, and ERK phosphorylation. Furthermore, E(2) and antioxidants, such as N-acetyl cysteine and diphenylene iodonium, decreased Ang-II-induced cell proliferation, ET-1 promoter activity, ET-1 mRNA, ERK phosphorylation, and activator protein-1-mediated reporter activity. In summary, our results suggest that E(2) inhibits Ang-II-induced cell proliferation and ET-1 gene expression, partially by interfering with the ERK pathway via attenuation of ROS generation. Thus, this study provides important new insight regarding the molecular pathways that may contribute to the proposed beneficial effects of estrogen on the cardiovascular system.

Air pollutants increase gene expression of the vasoconstrictor endothelin-1 in the lungs

Inhalation of urban pollutants elevates the circulating levels of the vasoactive peptides endothelin (ET)-1 and ET-3 in rats. This effect could explain the association between episodic variations of urban pollutants and acute cardiopulmonary morbidity and mortality documented in epidemiological studies. Because the lungs are the primary source of circulating ET-1 and the main site of clearance from circulation, we investigated the response of endothelin system genes in the lungs of Fischer-344 rats after 4-h nose-only inhalation of 0.8 ppm ozone plus 49 mg/m(3) EHC-93 (Ottawa particles). The mRNA levels for preproET-1, preproET-3, endothelin-converting enzyme (ECE)-1, and ET receptor subtypes A and B were determined at 2 h, and 1, 2, 3, 7, and 14 days after exposure. The pollutants induced preproET-1 and ECE-1 (P<0.05) after 2 h, consistent with the notion of increased synthesis and conversion of the peptide ET-1 in lung endothelial cells. PreproET-3 mRNA was down-regulated at 2 h post-exposure (P<0.05), and returned to control levels by 24 h, indicating that induction of ET-3 in the lungs is not responsible for the sustained elevation of ET-3 in plasma reported after inhalation of pollutants. Our results indicate that lung endothelin system genes respond rapidly and transiently to inhalation of urban pollutants, consistent with the dynamics of urban pollutant health effects in the human population.

Role of the epidermal growth factor receptor in signaling strain-dependent activation of the brain natriuretic peptide gene

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and ectoshedding of heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HBEGF), an EGFR ligand, have been linked to the development of cardiac myocyte hypertrophy. However, the precise role that the liganded EGFR plays in the transcriptional activation of the gene program that accompanies hypertrophy remains undefined. Utilizing the human (h) BNP gene as a model of hypertrophy-dependent gene activation, we show that activation of the EGFR plays an important role in mediating mechanical strain-dependent stimulation of the hBNP promoter. Strain promotes endothelin (ET) generation through NAD(P)H oxidase-dependent production of reactive oxygen species. ET in turn induces metalloproteinase-mediated cleavage of pro-HBEGF and ectoshedding of HBEGF, which activates the EGFR and stimulates hBNP promoter activity. HBEGF also stimulates other phenotypic markers of hypertrophy including protein synthesis and sarcomeric assembly. The antioxidant N-acetylcysteine or the NAD(P)H oxidase inhibitor, apocynin, inhibited strain-dependent activation of the ET-1 promoter, HBEGF shedding, and hBNP promoter activation. The metalloproteinase inhibitor, GM-6001, prevented the induction of HBEGF ectoshedding and the hBNP promoter response to strain, suggesting a critical role for the metalloproteinase-dependent cleavage event in signaling the strain response. These findings suggest that metalloproteinase activity as an essential step in this pathway may prove to be a relevant therapeutic target in the management of cardiac hypertrophy.

Involvement of reactive oxygen species in angiotensin II-induced endothelin-1 gene expression in rat cardiac fibroblasts

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of angiotensin II (Ang II) on fibroblast proliferation and endothelin-1 (ET-1) gene induction, focusing especially on reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated signaling in cardiac fibroblasts.

BACKGROUND

Angiotensin II increases ET-1 expression, which plays an important role in Ang II-induced fibroblast proliferation. Angiotensin II also stimulates ROS generation in cardiac fibroblasts. However, whether ROS are involved in Ang II-induced proliferation and ET-1 expression remains unknown.

METHODS

Cultured neonatal rat cardiac fibroblasts were stimulated with Ang II, and then [(3)H]thymidine incorporation and the ET-1 gene expression were examined. We also examined the effects of antioxidants on Ang II-induced proliferation and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation to elucidate the redox-sensitive pathway in fibroblast proliferation and ET-1 gene expression.

RESULTS

Both AT(1) receptor antagonist (losartan) and ET(A) receptor antagonist (BQ485) inhibited Ang II-increased DNA synthesis. Endothelin-1 gene was induced with Ang II as revealed by Northern blotting and promoter activity assay. Angiotensin II increased intracellular ROS levels, which were inhibited with losartan and antioxidants. Antioxidants further suppressed Ang II-induced ET-1 gene expression, DNA synthesis, and MAPK phosphorylation. PD98059, but not SB203580, fully inhibited Ang II-induced ET-1 expression. Truncation and mutational analysis of the ET-1 gene promoter showed that AP-1 binding site was an important cis-element in Ang II-induced ET-1 gene expression.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that ROS are involved in Ang II-induced proliferation and ET-1 gene expression. Our findings imply that the combination of AT(I) and ET(A) receptor antagonists plus antioxidants may be beneficial in preventing the formation of excessive cardiac fibrosis.

Crucial role of extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway in reactive oxygen species-mediated endothelin-1 gene expression induced by endothelin-1 in rat cardiac fibroblasts

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) has been implicated in fibroblast proliferation. However, the mechanism involving ET-1 is not clear. The present study was performed to examine the role of endogenous ET-1 in ET-1-stimulated fibroblast proliferation and to investigate the regulatory mechanism of ET-1-induced ET-1 gene expression in cardiac fibroblasts. Both ET(A) receptor antagonist [(hexahydro-1H-azepinyl)carbonyl-Leu-D-Trp-D-OH (BQ485)] and endothelin-converting enzyme inhibitor (phosphoramidon) inhibited the increased DNA synthesis caused by ET-1. ET-1 gene was induced by ET-1, as revealed with Northern blotting and ET-1 promoter activity assay. ET-1 increased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), which were significantly inhibited by BQ485 and antioxidants. Antioxidants suppressed ET-1 gene expression and DNA synthesis stimulated by ET-1. ET-1 activated mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), including extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), p38 MAPK, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase, which were significantly inhibited by antioxidants. Only ERK inhibitor U0126 could inhibit ET-1-induced transcription of the ET-1 gene. Cotransfection of dominant-negative mutant of Ras, Raf, and MEK1 decreased the ET-1-induced increase in ET-1 transcription, suggesting that the Ras-Raf-ERK pathway is required for ET-1 action. Truncation and mutational analysis of the ET-1 gene promoter showed that the activator protein-1 (AP-1) binding site was an important cis-element in ET-1-induced ET-1 gene expression. Antioxidants attenuated the ET-1-stimulated AP-1 binding activity. Our data suggest that ROS were involved in ET-1-induced fibroblast proliferation and mediated ET-1-induced activation of ERK pathways, which culminated in ET-1 gene expression.

The NFY transcription factor functions as a repressor and activator of the von Willebrand factor promoter

Human von Willebrand factor (VWF) gene sequences -487 to +247 function as an endothelial-specific promoter in vitro. Analysis of the activation mechanism of the VWF promoter has resulted in the identification of a number of cis-acting elements and trans-acting factors that regulate its activity. The GATA and Ets transcription factors were shown to function as activators of transcription, whereas NF1 and Oct1 were shown to repress transcription. We have reported the presence of another repressor element in exon 1 that interacted with a protein complex designated "R." In the absence of NF1 binding, inhibition of this interaction resulted in promoter activation in nonendothelial cells. We have now identified the "R" protein complex as the NFY transcription factor. Using DNA methylation interference assay and base substitution mutation analysis, we show that NFY interacts with a novel DNA sequence corresponding to nucleotides +226 to +234 in the VWF promoter that does not conform to the consensus NFY binding sequence CCAAT. The VWF gene does contain a CCAAT element that is located downstream of the TATA box and we show that the NFY factor also interacts with this CCAAT element. Using antibodies specific against the A, B, and C subunits of NFY, we demonstrate that the NFY complexes interacting with the CCAAT sequence have a composition similar to that of the repressor binding to the first exon sequences. The results of mutation analysis and transfection studies demonstrated that the interaction of NFY with the upstream CCAAT element is required for VWF promoter activation. Based on these results, we hypothesize that NFY can function both as a repressor and activator of transcription and its function may be modulated through its DNA binding sequences.

Retinoid receptor-specific agonists alleviate experimental glomerulonephritis

Retinoids are potent antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory compounds. We previously demonstrated that the natural pan-agonists all-trans retinoic acid (RA) and 13-cis RA efficiently preserve renal structure and function in rat mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis. We examine effects of synthetic retinoid receptor-specific agonists 1) to identify common and receptor subtype-specific pathways in this model and 2) to characterize effects of retinoids on the renal endothelin (ET) system. Vehicle-injected control rats were compared with rats treated with daily subcutaneous injections of agonists specific for retinoid A (Ro-137410) and retinoid X (Ro-257386) receptors and the complex anti-activator protein-1 active retinoid BMS-453 7 days after induction of anti-Thy1.1 nephritis (n = 7-9/group). The different retinoids lowered glomerular ET-1 and ET type A and B receptor gene expression in control and nephritic rats with comparable efficacy. Reduction of glomerular c-Fos and GATA-2 mRNA expression levels suggests downregulation of transcription factors required for ET expression. The different retinoids were similar in their action on the glomerular capillary occlusion score, number of total glomerular cells, and glomerular infiltrating macrophage count. They differed in their ability to normalize blood pressure (Ro-257386 > BMS-453 > arotinoid), albuminuria (BMS-453 > Ro-257386 > arotinoid), and creatinine clearance (arotinoid > BMS-453 > Ro-257386). No signs of toxicity were observed. We conclude that all retinoid agonists with different subtype specificity are highly efficient in reducing renal damage and proliferation of mesangial cells. Retinoid X and A receptor-specific pathways are apparently involved in the antiproliferative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-ET action. Further studies are indicated to define the potential use of retinoid agonists in inflammatory renal disease.

Decoy oligodeoxynucleotide characterization of transcription factors controlling endothelin-B receptor expression in vascular smooth muscle cells

Endothelin-1 is not only a powerful vasoconstrictor but also a potent mitogen for vascular smooth muscle cells (SMC), acting through both the endothelin-A and endothelin-B receptor (ET(B)-R). Although vascular SMC are known to express the ET(B)-R, its transcriptional regulation has not been studied thus far. Here we demonstrate that the potent inhibitor of nuclear factor kappaB activation, pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC; 30-100 microM), induces de novo ET(B)-R expression in rat aortic and mesenteric cultured SMC. Electrophoretic mobility shift analyses revealed that besides inhibition of nuclear factor kappaB, PDTC enhances activator protein-1 (AP-1), CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP), and GATA-2 activity in these cells. Preincubation of PDTC-stimulated cells with appropriate decoy oligodeoxynucleotides confirmed the involvement of these three transcription factors, namely that of AP-1, in ET(B)-R expression. The stimulatory effect of PDTC on ET(B)-R expression was also confirmed functionally by monitoring an enhanced ET-1-induced apoptosis in PDTC-treated cells that was sensitive to the ET(B)-R antagonist, BQ788. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that C/EBP, GATA-2, and in particular AP-1 can control ET(B)-R expression in vascular SMC. They further support the notion that ET(B)-R expression in these cells may play an important role in cardiovascular complications, such as restenosis following angioplasty that in the early phase is characterized by prominent SMC apoptosis.

Diabetes mellitus increases endothelin-1 gene transcription in rat kidney

BACKGROUND

Mesangial cell hypertrophy and increased extracellular matrix (ECM) contribute to mesangial expansion in early progressive diabetic nephropathy. Previous studies suggest that the growth factor endothelin-1 (ET-1) is not only up-regulated in diabetes, but may mediate the effects of hyperglycemia on mesangial cell hypertrophy and ECM synthesis. In models of diabetes mellitus, the mechanisms underlying increased ET-1 peptide and mRNA remain unknown. Therefore, our purpose is to determine whether ET-1 gene activity increases in kidneys of streptozotocin (SZT)-treated rats.

METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with either SZT or vehicle. Parameters including glucose, body weight, 24-hour urine volume, urinary protein, and urinary ET-1 excretion were recorded. All rats were sacrificed at 12 weeks postinjection. Prepro-ET-1 mRNA from whole kidneys was determined using both RNase protection and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The abundance of ET-1 peptide in primary cultured mesangial cells was detected by indirect immunofluorescence following treatment with 5.6, 11.2, or 22.5 mmol/L D-glucose for 24 hours. Cellular ET-1 mRNA was measured using RT-PCR in control cells at time 0 and also following exposure to increasing concentrations of glucose for 24 hours. Rat mesangial cells were transfected with a luciferase reporter construct containing the rat ET-1 promoter (pET1. Luc), and relative ET-1 promoter activity was measured after a 24-hour exposure to 5.6 and 22.5 mmol/L of D- or L-glucose.

RESULTS

After 12 weeks of hyperglycemia, diabetic rats gained less weight (344 +/- 23.9 vs. 548.75 +/- 15.08 g), had increased urinary volume (158.6 +/- 24.32 vs. 8.38 +/- 1.56 mL/day), and had marked proteinuria (101.7 +/- 12.2 vs. 14.1 +/- 2.8 mg/day) compared with controls. Total urinary ET-1 peptide increased 26.4-fold in diabetic versus control rats (17.5083 +/- 5.405 vs. 0.6635 +/- 0.343 ng/day). ET-1 mRNA extracted from whole rat kidneys was increased 2.1-fold in diabetic versus control animals. Primary cultured rat mesangial cells demonstrated a significant increase in immunofluorescence labeling of ET-1 peptide and ET-1 mRNA in response to increasing concentrations of glucose. Furthermore, transfected mesangial cells exposed to 22.5 mmol/L D-glucose showed a 1.6-fold increase in ET-1 promoter activity relative to those treated with 5.6 mmol/L glucose.

CONCLUSION

Glucose increases ET-1 gene expression in the kidney of the SZT-treated rat model of diabetes mellitus. Furthermore, high glucose induces ET-1 expression in primary cultured rat mesangial cells and directly enhances ET-1 promoter activity. The greater relative increase in peptide compared with transcription suggests the potential participation of other mechanisms such as increased mRNA stability, protein stability, and/or enhanced translational efficiency.

Oxidative stress increases synthesis of big endothelin-1 by activation of the endothelin-1 promoter

Modulation of the biosynthesis of the vasoconstrictor peptide endothelin-1 by oxygen-derived free radicals generated by xanthine oxidase or hydrogen peroxide was studied in cultured endothelial cells. Endothelin-1 metabolism was investigated at the level of endothelin-1 promoter, preproendothelin-1 mRNA and intracellular big endothelin-1. Endothelin-1 mRNA, as characterized by Northern blotting, was increased both time- and dose-dependently by xanthine oxidase to up to 500% above baseline. Analysis of endothelin-1 promoter activity using a construct containing 1329 bp of the endothelin-1 promoter revealed that promoter activity was increased up to eight-fold by incubation with xanthine oxidase. Specificity was ascertained by co-incubation with superoxide dismutase and catalase leading to inhibition of the effect of xanthine oxidase. A significant contribution of nitric oxide was ruled out, since NOS III-mRNA transcription remained unchanged and l -NAME did not significantly alter endothelin-1 promoter activity. Synthesis of intracellular big endothelin-1 protein was increased dose-dependently by xanthine oxidase. Our results indicate that oxidative stress leads to increased endothelial synthesis of big endothelin-1, which is a previously unknown mechanism and may help to understand the detrimental association of increased oxidative stress and elevated endothelin-1 levels in pathophysiological conditions promoting atherosclerosis.

Influence of sustained mechanical stress on Egr-1 mRNA expression in cultured human endothelial cells

Restenosis after initially successful balloon angioplasty of coronary artery stenosis remains a major problem in clinical cardiology. Previous studies have identified pathogenetic factors which trigger cell proliferation and vascular remodeling ultimately leading to restenosis. Since there is evidence that endothelial cells adjacent to the angioplasty wound area synthesize factors which may initiate this process, we investigated the effects of mechanical stimulation on endothelial gene expression in vitro and focussed on the influence of sustained mechanical stress on expression of immediate early genes which have previously been shown to be induced in the vascular wall in vivo. Primary cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and the human endothelial cell line EA.hy 926 were plated on collagen-coated silicone membranes and subjected to constant longitudinal stress of approximately 20% for 10 min to 6 h. Total RNA was isolated and the expression of the immediate early genes c-Fos and Egr-1 was studied by Northern blot analysis. We found a rapid upregulation c-Fos and Egr-1 mRNA which started at 10 min and reached its maxima at 30 min. HUVEC lost most of their stretch response after the third passage whereas immediate early gene expression was constantly in EA.hy 926 cells. Using specific inhibitors we investigated the contribution of several signal transduction pathways to stretch-activated Egr-1 mRNA expression. We found significant suppression of stretch-induced Egr-1 mRNA expression by protein kinase C (PKC) inhibition (p < 0.05) and by calcium depletion (EA.hy 926, p < 0.05; HUVEC, p = 0.063). No effect on stretch-activated Egr-1 mRNA expression was detected by inhibition of protein kinase A, blockade of stretch-activated cation channels or inhibition of microtubule synthesis. We conclude that sustained mechanical strain induces Egr-1 mRNA expression by PKC- and calcium-dependent mechanisms.

Differential transcriptional regulation of endothelin-1 by immunosuppressants FK506 and cyclosporin A

Calcineurin antagonists FK506 and CsA, administered to treat organ allograft rejection, exert specific effects on renal vasoconstriction and nephrotoxicity, possibly due to endogenous vasoconstrictor release such as ET-1. We investigated contribution of FK506 and CsA on regulation of prepro ET-1 gene transcription in HUVEC. To conclude on transcriptional regulation, ET-1 mRNA levels were quantified by Northern blot analysis upon stimulation with calcineurin antagonists, and newly transcribed luciferase gene, placed under the control of the rat ET-1 promoter, was quantified by reporter gene assays, where luciferase activity reflects ET-1 promoter activation. Calcium fluorometry was employed to examine calcium dependency of ET-1 promoter-dependent gene transcription. Northern blot analysis shows differential induction of prepro ET-1 mRNA in favour of CsA over FK506. Likewise, luciferase assays demonstrate stronger ET-1 promoter-dependent stimulation of the reporter gene by CsA than by FK506. Transcription of prepro ET-1 gene upon stimulation with both calcineurin antagonists is regulated by intracellular calcium levels. Lack of extra- or intracellular calcium prevents ET-1 promoter-dependent gene transcription and ET-1 mRNA induction. These observations demonstrate that calcineurin antagonists FK506 and CsA differ in quality to induce transcription of prepro ET-1 in HUVEC via calcium-dependent nuclear signalling events. To examine the contribution of ET-1 in nephrotoxicity upon CsA and FK506 immunosuppression the availability of endothelin receptor antagonists or endothelin converting enzyme inhibitors is required.

Cloning and functional characterization of the bovine endothelin-converting enzyme-1a promoter

Endothelin-converting enzyme-1 (ECE-1) mRNA is expressed in three isoforms, termed a, b, and c, originating from alternative promoters. In cultured bovine aortic endothelial cells, we detected mRNA isoform expression of ECE-1a and ECE-1b/c, respectively. Investigating transcriptional mechanisms of bovine endothelial ECE-1a expression in more detail, we identified multiple transcription start sites localized 120-415 nucleotides upstream from the presumptive translation start codon by RNase protection assay and 5' RACE. Using luciferase reporter gene assays we found that 1.4 kb of the 5' untranslated region showed strong promoter activity in endothelial cells. Sequence analysis revealed 71% overall homology of the bovine ECE-1a promoter with its human homologue. The proximal 680 base pair promoter region was shown to contain cis elements that are sufficient for basal and serum-induced transcriptional activation.

Cyclosporin A induces prepro endothelin-1 gene transcription in human endothelial cells

Cyclosporin A employed in treatment of organ allograft rejection, is associated with hypertension possibly due to endothelin-1. We studied transcriptional regulation of endothelin-1 by cyclosporin A in human endothelial cells using cell transfection experiments and reporter gene assays. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were established expressing a fusion gene of the coding sequence of the firefly luciferase gene, placed under the control of the rat endothelin-1 promoter. Luciferase assays demonstrate 2.8-fold stimulation of the reporter gene by cyclosporin A (P < 0.01), and Northern blot analysis shows induction of prepro endothelin-1 mRNA. Transcription is tightly repressed in the absence of the immunosuppressant, its regulation occurs Ca(2+)-dependent. Lack of extra- or intracellular Ca2+ prevents cyclosporin A-dependent endothelin-1 gene transcription and mRNA induction. These data demonstrate transcriptional regulation of endothelin-1 over a range of several orders of magnitude in human umbilical vein endothelial cells by cyclosporin A via Ca(2+)-dependent mechanisms. They support the critical role of endothelin- in cyclosporin A-associated hypertension.

Rat angiotensin-converting enzyme promoter regulation by beta-adrenergics and cAMP in endothelium

To shed light on mechanisms of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) upregulation, we used a rabbit endothelial cell model to characterize intracellular pathways of beta-adrenergic stimulation. In these cells, ACE activity is increased by isoproterenol (ISO). The stably transfected 1273-bp ACE promoter is stimulated by ISO in the presence of isobutyl methylxanthine. This effect is abolished by propranolol. Promoter stimulation is mimicked by cholera toxin, forskolin, and 8BrcAMP, but not by 8BrcGMP. Promoter stimulation by ISO and isobutyl methylxanthine is blocked by protein kinase A inhibitors, indicating that beta-adrenergic stimulation of the ACE gene depends on phosphorylation of protein kinase A targets. Activation by cAMP, resistance to phorbol ester, and lack of synergism between cAMP and phorbol ester suggest that promoter regulation is due to cAMP responsive element rather than to activating protein-2 sequences. Okadaic acid potentiation of 8BrcAMP induction indicated that promoter activation by cAMP is regulated by phosphatases controlling activation of typical cAMP responsive element regulated genes. In summary, beta-adrenergic activation of rat ACE promoter is specific; uses G(s) proteins, adenylyl cyclase, protein kinase A; and probably includes cAMP responsive element-like sequences.

Autocrine/paracrine determinants of strain-activated brain natriuretic peptide gene expression in cultured cardiac myocytes

The application of mechanical strain leads to activation of human brain natriuretic peptide gene promoter activity, a marker of hypertrophy, in cultured neonatal rat ventricular myocytes. We have used a combination of transient transfection analysis and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction to examine the role of locally produced factors in contributing to this activation. Conditioned media from strained, but not static, cultures led to a dose-dependent increase in human brain natriuretic peptide gene promoter activity. This increase was completely blocked by losartan or BQ-123, implying a role for angiotensin and endothelin as autocrine/paracrine mediators of the response to strain. Inclusion of the same antagonists in the cultures themselves led to only partial inhibition (approximately 60%), whereas inclusion of exogenous endothelin or angiotensin II resulted in amplification of the strain response. Angiotensin II and endothelin appear to be arrayed in series in the regulatory circuitry; the angiotensin response was blocked by BQ-123, whereas the endothelin response was unaffected by losartan. Mechanical strain was also shown to stimulate expression of the endogenous angiotensinogen, angiotensin-converting enzyme, and endothelin genes in this system. Collectively, these data indicate that locally generated angiotensin II and endothelin, acting in series, play an important autocrine/paracrine role in mediating strain-dependent activation of cardiac-specific gene expression.

Transcriptional regulation of pre-pro-endothelin-1 gene by glucocorticoids in vascular smooth muscle cells

Endothelin is a potent vasoactive peptide involved in the maintenance of vascular tone and in pathophysiological states. Endothelin-1 synthesis is controlled at the transcriptional level. We report that glucocorticoids increase the pre-pro-endothelin-1 gene transcription rate in vascular smooth muscle cells. The effect of glucocorticoids is dose-dependent (EC50 approximately 2-3 nM) and completely blocked by co-incubation with the glucocorticoid antagonist RU 38486. The rise in pp-Et-1 steady state mRNA levels is rapid and transient with a maximal three-fold stimulation within one hour of glucocorticoid administration. Glucocorticoid treatment does not affect the half-life of pre-pro-endothelin-1 mRNA as shown by actinomycin D studies. Furthermore, cycloheximide treatment concomitantly with RU 28362 did not reverse the stimulatory effect of glucocorticoids on pre-pro-endothelin-1 mRNA levels. Nuclear run-on analysis shows that glucocorticoids increase the transcription rate of pre-pro-endothelin-1. Our results suggest a role for glucocorticoids in the regulation of biosynthesis and action of this important vasoactive peptide in vascular smooth muscle cells.

A comparative study of tumour blood flow modification in two rat tumour systems using endothelin-1 and angiotensin II: influence of tumour size on angiotensin II response

Tumour blood flow modification following i.v. administration of angiotensin II (AT II, 0.19 nmol kg-1 min-1) or endothelin-1 (ET-1, 1 nmol kg-1) was compared in the P22 carcinosarcoma-bearing BD9 rat and the HSN fibrosarcoma-bearing CBH/CBi rat using the tissue uptake of radiolabelled iodoantipyrine. Results were compared with a range of normal tissues. HSN tumour blood flow was unmodified by either peptide, whereas P22 tumour blood flow was unmodified by ET-1 but was reduced to 80% of the control flow by AT II. Both peptides reduced absolute blood flow in the skin overlying the tumour, in contralateral skin, skeletal muscle, kidney and small intestine, whereas blood flow to the brain and heart was significantly increased by ET-1 and unmodified by AT II. Both peptides significantly increased vascular resistance (mean arterial blood pressure / tissue blood flow) in all normal tissues and both tumours, thus demonstrating the existence of vascular receptors for these 2 vasomodifiers, and the capacity of the vessels to respond to receptor activation. Dependency of response on tumour size was examined in the P22 tumour. In contrast to that in small P22 tumours (1.22 +/- 0.06 g), blood flow to large P22 tumours (7.18 +/- 0.25 g) was unmodified by AT II. Vascular resistance was equally increased in both tumour groups, thus illustrating little difference in the vascular response to AT II in the size range examined. Results show that the 2 rat tumours responded directly to ET-1 and AT II, but do not indicate any advantage of ET-1 over AT II in tumour blood flow modification. However, the existence of tumour vascular endothelin receptors suggests that the advent of less toxic and more controllable receptor ligands may make endothelin receptors of value in the modification of tumour blood flow.

Action of the calcium channel blocker lacidipine on cardiac hypertrophy and endothelin-1 gene expression in stroke-prone hypertensive rats

1. The tissue-protective effects of calcium channel blockers in hypertension are not well dissociated from their effect on systolic blood pressure (SBP). We have previously shown that lacidipine, a dihydropyridine-type calcium antagonist, reduced the cardiac hypertrophy and the cardiac endothelin-1 (ET-1) gene overexpression occurring in salt-loaded stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SL-SHRSP), an effect occurring without systolic blood pressure (SBP) change. In the present study, we have examined whether this action was dose-related and if it could be associated with ET receptor changes. The action of lacidipine was also examined in control SHRSP and in Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY). 2. The daily dose of 0.3 mg kg-1 lacidipine which did not lower SBP but significantly prevented ventricle hypertrophy and cardiac preproET-1-mRNA expression in SL-SHRSP was inactive in control SHRSP. With the higher dose of lacidipine (1 mg kg-1 day-1), we observed a further reduction of cardiac hypertrophy and of ET-1 gene expression in SL-SHRSP and a significant effect on those parameters in control SHRSP but only a small reduction of SBP in both groups. 3. In WKY, salt loading did not induce change in SBP or increase of cardiac ET-1 gene expression and ventricle mass. In these normotensive rats, lacidipine (1 mg kg-1 day-1) did not modulate the basal preproET-1-mRNA expression and did not affect SBP or heart weight. 4. The maximum binding capacity (Bmax) and the dissociation constant (KD) of [125I]-ET-1 binding and the relative proportion of low- and high-affinity binding sites for ET-3 were not significantly affected by salt loading or lacidipine treatment in SHRSP. 5. These results show that lacidipine exerted a dose-related inhibition of ventricle hypertrophy and preproET-1-mRNA expression in SHRSP and indicate that this effect was unrelated to SBP changes. The dose-dependency of this inhibition suggests that salt-induced cardiac hypertrophy could be related to ET-1 gene overexpression. The results further show that ET receptor changes are not involved in the pathophysiological process studied here.