Adenosine A2areceptor-mediated, normoxic induction of HIF-1 through PKC and PI-3K-dependent pathways in macrophages

Adenosine A2A receptor as a potential regulator of Mycobacterium leprae survival mechanisms: new insights into leprosy neural damage

Background

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, which can lead to a disabling neurodegenerative condition. M. leprae preferentially infects skin macrophages and Schwann cells-glial cells of the peripheral nervous system. The infection modifies the host cell lipid metabolism, subverting it in favor of the formation of cholesterol-rich lipid droplets (LD) that are essential for bacterial survival. Although researchers have made progress in understanding leprosy pathogenesis, many aspects of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of host-pathogen interaction still require clarification. The purinergic system utilizes extracellular ATP and adenosine as critical signaling molecules and plays several roles in pathophysiological processes. Furthermore, nucleoside surface receptors such as the adenosine receptor A2AR involved in neuroimmune response, lipid metabolism, and neuron-glia interaction are targets for the treatment of different diseases. Despite the importance of this system, nothing has been described about its role in leprosy, particularly adenosinergic signaling (AdoS) during M. leprae-Schwann cell interaction.

Methods

M. leprae was purified from the hind footpad of athymic nu/nu mice. ST88-14 human cells were infected with M. leprae in the presence or absence of specific agonists or antagonists of AdoS. Enzymatic activity assays, fluorescence microscopy, Western blotting, and RT-qPCR analysis were performed. M. leprae viability was investigated by RT-qPCR, and cytokines were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

We demonstrated that M. leprae-infected Schwann cells upregulated CD73 and ADA and downregulated A2AR expression and the phosphorylation of the transcription factor CREB (p-CREB). On the other hand, activation of A2AR with its selective agonist, CGS21680, resulted in: 1) reduced lipid droplets accumulation and pro-lipogenic gene expression; 2) reduced production of IL-6 and IL-8; 3) reduced intracellular M. leprae viability; 4) increased levels of p-CREB.

Conclusion

These findings suggest the involvement of the AdoS in leprosy neuropathogenesis and support the idea that M. leprae, by downmodulating the expression and activity of A2AR in Schwann cells, decreases A2AR downstream signaling, contributing to the maintenance of LD accumulation and intracellular viability of the bacillus.

Adenosine, bridging chronic inflammation and tumor growth

Adenosine (Ado) is a well-known immunosuppressive agent that may be released or generated extracellularly by cells, via degrading ATP by the sequential actions of the ectonucleotides CD39 and CD73. During inflammation Ado is produced by leukocytes and tissue cells by different means to initiate the healing phase. Ado downregulates the activation and the effector functions of different leukocyte (sub-) populations and stimulates proliferation of fibroblasts for re-establishment of intact tissues. Therefore, the anti-inflammatory actions of Ado are already intrinsically triggered during each episode of inflammation. These tissue-regenerating and inflammation-tempering purposes of Ado can become counterproductive. In chronic inflammation, it is possible that Ado-driven anti-inflammatory actions sustain the inflammation and prevent the final clearance of the tissues from possible pathogens. These chronic infections are characterized by increased tissue damage, remodeling and accumulating DNA damage, and are thus prone for tumor formation. Developing tumors may further enhance immunosuppressive actions by producing Ado by themselves, or by "hijacking" CD39+/CD73+ cells that had already developed during chronic inflammation. This review describes different and mostly convergent mechanisms of how Ado-induced immune suppression, initially induced in inflammation, can lead to tumor formation and outgrowth.

A2A Receptor Contributes to Tumor Progression in P2X7 Null Mice

ATP and adenosine are key constituents of the tumor niche where they exert opposite and complementary roles. ATP can be released in response to cell damage or actively released by tumor cells and subsequently degraded into adenosine, which accumulates within the tumor microenvironment. Notably, while ATP promotes immune eradicating responses mainly via the P2X7 receptor (P2X7R), extracellular adenosine acts as a potent immune suppressor and facilitates neovascularization thanks to the A2A receptor (A2AR). To date, studies exploring the interplay between P2X7R and A2AR in the tumor microenvironment are as yet missing. Here, we show that, in C57/bl6 P2X7 null mice inoculated with B16-F10 melanoma cells, several pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 12 (IL-12), interleukin 17 (IL-17), interferon gamma (IFN-γ) were significantly decreased, while the immune suppressant transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) was almost three-fold increased. Interestingly, tumors growing in P2X7-null mice upregulated tumor-associated and splenic A2AR, suggesting that immunosuppression linked to lack of the P2X7R might depend upon A2AR overexpression. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that tumor cells’ A2AR expression was increased, especially around necrotic areas, and that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and the endothelial marker CD31 were upregulated. A2AR antagonist SCH58261 treatment reduced tumor growth similarly in the P2X7 wild type or null mice strain. However, SCH58261 reduced VEGF only in the P2X7 knock out mice, thus supporting the hypothesis of an A2AR-mediated increase in vascularization observed in the P2X7-null host. SCH58261 administration also significantly reduced intratumor TGF-β levels, thus supporting a key immune suppressive role of A2AR in our model. Altogether, these results indicate that in the absence of host P2X7R, the A2AR favors tumor growth via immune suppression and neovascularization. This study shows a novel direct correlation between P2X7R and A2AR in oncogenesis and paves the way for new combined therapies promoting anti-cancer immune responses and reducing tumor vascularization.

Aspartate Metabolism Facilitates IL-1β Production in Inflammatory Macrophages

Increasing evidence support that cellular amino acid metabolism shapes the fate of immune cells; however, whether aspartate metabolism dictates macrophage function is still enigmatic. Here, we found that the metabolites in aspartate metabolism are depleted in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) plus interferon gamma (IFN-γ)-stimulated macrophages. Aspartate promotes interleukin-1β (IL-1β) secretion in M1 macrophages. Mechanistically, aspartate boosts the activation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and inflammasome and increases the levels of metabolites in aspartate metabolism, such as asparagine. Interestingly, asparagine also accelerates the activation of cellular signaling pathways and promotes the production of inflammatory cytokines from macrophages. Moreover, aspartate supplementation augments the macrophage-mediated inflammatory responses in mice and piglets. These results uncover a previously uncharacterized role for aspartate metabolism in directing M1 macrophage polarization.

Role of adenosine signaling in preeclampsia

Placenta-specific molecular basis that is responsible for the pathophysiology of preeclampsia (PE) remains to be fully understood. Adenosine, an endogenous nucleoside, is a signaling molecule that is induced under pathological conditions such as hypoxia and is involved in various diseases. Recent evidence on humans and animal models has demonstrated that enhanced placental adenosine signaling contributes to the development of PE. This review is to summarize current progress and discuss the significance of adenosine signaling in the pathophysiology of PE and future perspectives of therapeutic possibilities targeting adenosine signaling.

Macrophage Motility in Wound Healing Is Regulated by HIF-1α via S1P Signaling

Accumulating evidence indicates that the molecular pathways mediating wound healing induce cell migration and localization of cytokines to sites of injury. Macrophages are immune cells that sense and actively respond to disturbances in tissue homeostasis by initiating, and subsequently resolving, inflammation. Hypoxic conditions generated at a wound site also strongly recruit macrophages and affect their function. Hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1α is a transcription factor that contributes to both glycolysis and the induction of inflammatory genes, while also being critical for macrophage activation. For the latter, HIF-1α regulates sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) to affect the migration, activation, differentiation, and polarization of macrophages. Recently, S1P and HIF-1α have received much attention, and various studies have been performed to investigate their roles in initiating and resolving inflammation via macrophages. It is hypothesized that the HIF-1α/S1P/S1P receptor axis is an important determinant of macrophage function under inflammatory conditions and during disease pathogenesis. Therefore, in this review, biological regulation of monocytes/macrophages in response to circulating HIF-1α is summarized, including signaling by S1P/S1P receptors, which have essential roles in wound healing.

Normoxic induction of HIF-1α by adenosine-A2B R signaling in epicardial stromal cells formed after myocardial infarction

Myocardial infarction (MI) activates the epicardium to form epicardial stromal cells (EpiSC) that reside in the epicardial hypoxic microenvironment. Paracrine factors secreted by EpiSC were shown to modulate the injury response of the post-MI heart and improve cardiac function. We have previously reported that the expression of the angiogenic cytokines vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) and IL-6 is strongly upregulated in EpiSC by adenosine acting via the A_2B receptor (A_2B R). Since tissue hypoxia is well known to be a potent stimulus for the generation of extracellular adenosine, the present study explored the crosstalk of A_2B R activation and hypoxia-hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) signaling in cultured EpiSC, isolated from rat hearts 5 days after MI. We found substantial nuclear accumulation of HIF-1α after A_2B R activation even in the absence of hypoxia. This normoxic HIF-1α induction was PKC-dependent and involved upregulation of HIF-1α mRNA expression. While the influence of hypoxia on adenosine generation and A_2B R signaling was only minor, hypoxia and A_2B R activation cumulatively increased VEGFA expression. Normoxic A_2B R activation triggered an HIF-1α-associated cell-protective metabolic switch and reduced oxygen consumption. HIF-1α targets and negative regulators PHD2 and PHD3 were only weakly induced by A_2B R signaling, which may result in a sustained HIF-1α activity. The A_2B R-mediated normoxic HIF-1α induction was also observed in cardiac fibroblasts from healthy mouse hearts, suggesting that this mechanism is also functional in other A_2B R-expressing cell types. Altogether, we identified A_2B R-mediated HIF-1α induction as novel aspect in the HIF-1α-adenosine crosstalk, which modulates EpiSC activity and can amplify HIF-1α-mediated cardioprotection.

Role of Cardiac A2A Receptors Under Normal and Pathophysiological Conditions

This review presents an overview of cardiac A2A-adenosine receptors The localization of A2A-AR in the various cell types that encompass the heart and the role they play in force regulation in various mammalian species are depicted. The putative signal transduction systems of A2A-AR in cells in the living heart, as well as the known interactions of A2A-AR with membrane-bound receptors, will be addressed. The possible role that the receptors play in some relevant cardiac pathologies, such as persistent or transient ischemia, hypoxia, sepsis, hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy, and arrhythmias, will be reviewed. Moreover, the cardiac utility of A2A-AR as therapeutic targets for agonistic and antagonistic drugs will be discussed. Gaps in our knowledge about the cardiac function of A2A-AR and future research needs will be identified and formulated.

Targeting Hypoxia-A2A Adenosinergic Immunosuppression of Antitumor T Cells During Cancer Immunotherapy

The blockade of immunological negative regulators offered a novel therapeutic approach that revolutionized the immunotherapy of cancer. Still, a significant portion of patients fail to respond to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 and/or anti-CTLA-4 therapy or experience significant adverse effects. We propose that one of the major reasons that many patients do not respond to this form of therapy is due to the powerful physiological suppression mediated by hypoxia-adenosinergic signaling. Indeed, both inflamed and cancerous tissues are hypoxic and rich in extracellular adenosine, in part due to stabilization of the transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α). Adenosine signals through adenosine A2A receptors (A2AR) to suppress anti-tumor and anti-pathogen immune responses. Several classes of anti-hypoxia-A2AR therapeutics have been offered to refractory cancer patients, with A2AR blockers, inhibitors of adenosine-generating enzymes such as CD39 and CD73, and hypoxia-targeting drugs now reaching the clinical stage. Clinical results have confirmed preclinical observations that blockade of the hypoxia-adenosine-A2AR axis synergizes with inhibitors of immune checkpoints to induce tumor rejection. Thus, A2AR blockers provide a new hope for the majority of patients who are nonresponsive to current immunotherapeutic approaches including checkpoint blockade. Here, we discuss the discoveries that firmly implicate the A2AR as a critical and non-redundant biochemical negative regulator of the immune response and highlight the importance of targeting the hypoxia-adenosine-A2AR axis to manipulate anti-pathogen and anti-tumor immune responses.

ATP and adenosine: Role in the immunopathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a classic inflammatory autoimmune disease. Local joint destruction and extra-articular manifestations of RA deeply compromise the life quality of the affected patients. RA immunopathogenesis depends on continuous immunogenic activation in which the purinergic system participates. The purinergic system comprises the signaling and metabolism of purines such as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine. ATP signaling is involved in the activation and maintenance of the inflammatory state of RA through the activation of P2X7 and the production of cytokines, which orchestrate the pathogenesis of RA. The breakdown of ATP through the CD39/CD73 axis produces adenosine, which mostly inhibits the inflammatory process through activation of specific P1 receptors. Adenosine is hydrolyzed by adenosine deaminase (ADA) that interacts with other molecules playing additional roles in this disease. This review explores the release, metabolism, and the effects of binding of ATP and adenosine to their respective receptors in the context of RA, as well as their potential use as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Anti-inflammatory effect of polydeoxyribonucleotide on zoledronic acid-pretreated and lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells

Bisphosphonates are generally used as therapeutic agents for bone diseases. However, previous reports on bisphosphonates-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) demonstrated that inflammation triggers and worsens the disease. Recently, polydeoxynucleotide (PDRN), an A_2A receptor agonist, has been suggested for the treatment of various diseases and broadly studied for its anti-inflammatory effect. The present study aimed to measure the effect of PDRN on macrophage cells treated with zoledronic acid (ZA) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Macrophage cells were cultured with ZA for 24 h, following which they were stimulated with LPS in the presence or absence of varying concentrations of PDRN for 24 h. The cell viability and nitric oxide (NO) production of the cells were analyzed. In addition, protein expression levels were quantified by western blotting. Cell viability was compromised and NO was overexpressed by ZA and LPS stimulation. However, under ZA and LPS stimulation cell viability was enhanced, and NO production, and inducible nitric oxide synthase, interleukin (IL)-1β, -6, and tumor necrosis factor-α overexpression were suppressed on exposure to PDRN. A_2A receptor and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression levels increased following PDRN treatment. These results indicate that PDRN treatment of macrophages inhibits the inflammatory cytokines induced by ZA and LPS stimulation. It was hypothesized that the inflammatory cytokines were inhibited through A_2A activation by PDRN. In addition, increased VEGF expression may contribute to increased vascularization and subsequently improve the pathological condition in BRONJ. As inflammation and LPS may stimulate the occurrence of BRONJ, the present study postulated that PDRN is possibly a candidate for the therapeutic management of BRONJ by decreasing inflammation and increasing vascularization.

Cystatin F involvement in adenosine A2A receptor-mediated neuroinflammation in BV2 microglial cells

Our previous studies have shown adenosine A_2A R activation markedly promotes the expression of cystatin F (CF) and exacerbates the white matter lesions induced by hypoxic brain injuries. Thus, we hypothesized that CF was probably involved in neuroinflammation of activated microglia induced by A_2A R activation. We transfected the BV2 cells with a CF shRNA vector and examined the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in hypoxic-BV2 cells in which A_2A R was activated or inactivated to confirm this hypothesis. Additionally, we also investigated the probable signaling pathways involved in modulation of A_2A R activation on CF expression in hypoxia-activated BV2 cells. Activation of A_2A R promoted CF expression, which was significantly increased after the low glucose and hypoxia treatments in BV2 cells. CF gene knockdown markedly inhibited the increase in the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines induced by A_2A R activation in hypoxic-BV2 cells. Furthermore, the increased expression of the CF induced by A_2A R activation was remarkably inhibited in hypoxic-BV2 cells administrated with the PKA inhibitor H-89 and the PKC inhibitor staurosporine. Hence, these results indicate that hypoxia BV2 cells highly express CF, which is involved in A_2A R activation-mediated neuroinflammation via the PKA/CREB and PKC/CREB or ERK1/2 signaling pathways.

Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Sensor IRE1α Enhances IL-23 Expression by Human Dendritic Cells

Human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs) exposed to pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) undergo bioenergetic changes that influence the immune response. We found that stimulation with PAMPs enhanced glycolysis in DCs, whereas oxidative phosphorylation remained unaltered. Glucose starvation and the hexokinase inhibitor 2-deoxy-d-glucose (2-DG) modulated cytokine expression in stimulated DCs. Strikingly, IL23A was markedly induced upon 2-DG treatment, but not during glucose deprivation. Since 2-DG can also rapidly inhibit protein N-glycosylation, we postulated that this compound could induce IL-23 in DCs via activation of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response. Indeed, stimulation of DCs with PAMPs in the presence of 2-DG robustly activated inositol-requiring protein 1α (IRE1α) signaling and to a lesser extent the PERK arm of the unfolded protein response. Additional ER stressors such as tunicamycin and thapsigargin also promoted IL-23 expression by PAMP-stimulated DCs. Pharmacological, biochemical, and genetic analyses using conditional knockout mice revealed that IL-23 induction in ER stressed DCs stimulated with PAMPs was IRE1α/X-box binding protein 1-dependent upon zymosan stimulation. Interestingly, we further evidenced PERK-mediated and CAAT/enhancer-binding protein β-dependent trans-activation of IL23A upon lipopolysaccharide treatment. Our findings uncover that the ER stress response can potently modulate cytokine expression in PAMP-stimulated human DCs.

Ubiquitination mediates Kv1.3 endocytosis as a mechanism for protein kinase C-dependent modulation

The voltage-dependent potassium channel Kv1.3 plays essential physiological functions in the immune system. Kv1.3, regulating the membrane potential, facilitates downstream Ca²⁺ -dependent pathways and becomes concentrated in specific membrane microdomains that serve as signaling platforms. Increased and/or delocalized expression of the channel is observed at the onset of several autoimmune diseases. In this work, we show that adenosine (ADO), which is a potent endogenous modulator, stimulates PKC, thereby causing immunosuppression. PKC activation triggers down-regulation of Kv1.3 by inducing a clathrin-mediated endocytic event that targets the channel to lysosomal-degradative compartments. Therefore, the abundance of Kv1.3 at the cell surface decreases, which is clearly compatible with an effective anti-inflammatory response. This mechanism requires ubiquitination of Kv1.3, catalyzed by the E3 ubiquitin-ligase Nedd4-2. Postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95), a member of the MAGUK family, recruits Kv1.3 into lipid-raft microdomains and protects the channel against ubiquitination and endocytosis. Therefore, the Kv1.3/PSD-95 association fine-tunes the anti-inflammatory response in leukocytes. Because Kv1.3 is a promising multi-therapeutic target against human pathologies, our results have physiological relevance. In addition, this work elucidates the ADO-dependent PKC-mediated molecular mechanism that triggers immunomodulation by targeting Kv1.3 in leukocytes.

The effects of linalool on the excitability of central neurons of snail Caucasotachea atrolabiata

Linalool is a major constituent of the essential oil of several plant species and possesses several biological activities. In this work, we studied the effects of linalool on excitability of central neurons of land snail Caucasotachea atrolabiata and tried to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. The lower concentration of linalool (0.1mM) showed suppressive action on spontaneous activity and pentylenetetrazole-induced epileptiform activity. These effects were associated with elevation of the action potential threshold and reduction of action potential rising phase, supporting the inhibitory action of linalool on Na⁺ channels. At this concentration it also prolonged the post stimulus inhibitory period that can take part in its antiepileptic effect and apparently results from increased action potential duration and indirect augmentation of Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ currents. At higher concentration, however, linalool (0.4mM) increased the neuronal excitability and induced epileptiform activity. The modulatory effects on action potential waveform during preconvulsive period suggest that the recent effect is mainly dependent on the suppression of outward potassium currents underlying repolarization phase and afterhyperpolarization. The linalool-induced epileptiform activity was abolished by Ca2⁺ channel blockers, nifedipine and nickel chloride, and selective inhibitor of protein kinase C, chelerythrine, suggesting that Ca2⁺ inward currents and protein kinase C (PKC) activity are required for linalool-induced epileptiform activity. Our results support the antiepileptic activity of linalool at lower dose, but it shows epileptogenic activity when applied directly on snail neurons at higher dose. Linalool may also be a potential therapeutic agent for activating PKC.

Polydeoxyribonucleotide, an Adenosine-A2A Receptor Agonist, Preserves Blood Testis Barrier from Cadmium-Induced Injury

Cadmium (Cd) impairs blood-testis barrier (BTB). Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), an adenosine A_2A agonist, has positive effects on male reproductive system. We investigated the effects of PDRN on the morphological and functional changes induced by Cd in mice testes. Adult Swiss mice were divided into four groups: controls administered with 0.9% NaCl (1 ml/kg, i.p., daily) or with PDRN (8 mg/kg, i.p. daily), animals challenged with Cd chloride (CdCl₂; 2 mg/kg, i.p, daily) and animals challenged with CdCl₂ (2 mg/kg, i.p., daily) and treated with PDRN (8 mg/kg, i.p., daily). Experiments lasted 14 days. Testes were processed for biochemical, structural, and ultrastructural evaluation and hormones were assayed in serum. CdCl₂ increased pERK 1/2 expression and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) levels; it decreased testosterone (TE) and inhibin-B levels and induced structural damages in extratubular compartment and in seminiferous epithelium, with ultrastructural features of BTB disruption. Many TUNEL-positive germ cells were present. CdCl₂ increased tubular TGF-β3 immunoreactivity and reduced claudin-11, occludin, and N-cadherin immunoreactivity. PDRN administration reduced pERK 1/2 expression, FSH, and LH levels; it increased TE and inhibin-B levels, ameliorated germinal epithelium changes and protected BTB ultrastructure. Few TUNEL-positive germ cells were present and the extratubular compartment was preserved. Furthermore, PDRN decreased TGF-β3 immunoreactivity and enhanced claudin-11, occludin, and N-cadherin immunoreactivity. We demonstrate a protective effect of PDRN on Cd-induced damages of BTB and suggest that PDRN may play an important role against Cd, particularly against its harmful effects on gametogenesis.

Adipose Tissue Hypoxia in Obesity and Its Impact on Preadipocytes and Macrophages: Hypoxia Hypothesis

Obese subjects exhibit lower adipose tissue oxygen consumption in accordance with the lower adipose tissue blood flow. Thus, compared with lean subjects, obese subjects have 44% lower capillary density and 58% lower vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The VEGF expression together with hypoxia-inducible transcription factor-1 (HIF-1) activity also requires phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)- and target of rapamycin (TOR)-mediated signaling. HIF-1alpha is an important signaling molecule for hypoxia to induce the inflammatory responses. Hypoxia affects a number of biological functions, such as angiogenesis, cell proliferation, apoptosis, inflammation and insulin resistance. Additionally, reactive oxygen radical (ROS) generation at mitochondria is responsible for propagation of the hypoxic signal. Actually mitochondrial ROS (mtROS) production, but not oxygen consumption is required for hypoxic HIF-1alpha protein stabilization. Adipocyte mitochondrial oxidative capacity is reduced in obese compared with non-obese adults. In this respect, mitochondrial dysfunction of adipocyte is associated with the overall adiposity. Furthermore, hypoxia also inhibits macrophage migration from the hypoxic adipose tissue. Alterations in oxygen availability of adipose tissue directly affect the macrophage polarization and are responsible from dysregulated adipocytokines production in obesity. Hypoxia also inhibits adipocyte differentiation from preadipocytes. In addition to stressed adipocytes, hypoxia contributes to immune cell immigration and activation which further aggravates adipose tissue fibrosis. Fibrosis is initiated in response to adipocyte hypertrophy in obesity.

Protective Effect of Polydeoxyribonucleotide Against Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Mice

BACKGROUND

Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) is an A2A receptor agonist that induces vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production during the pathological condition of low tissue perfusion. Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a major problem after renal transplantation. In the present study, we investigated whether PDRN exhibits reno-protective effects against ischemia-reperfusion-induced acute kidney injury in mice.

METHODS

Renal ischemia-reperfusion injury was induced in male C57BL/6 mice by bilateral renal pedicle occlusion for 30 minutes, followed by reperfusion for 48 hours. PDRN (8 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneally) was administered 30 minutes before IRI.

RESULTS

Treatment with PDRN significantly decreased neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin levels in the urine, blood urea nitrogen level, and serum creatinine levels as well as kidney tubular injury. Western blotting showed that PDRN significantly increased the levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and B-cell lymphoma protein and attenuated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and Bcl-2-associated X protein levels 48 hours after IRI.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that PDRN is a potential therapeutic agent for acute ischemia-induced renal damage.

An Anti-Parkinson's Disease Drug via Targeting Adenosine A2A Receptor Enhances Amyloid-β Generation and γ-Secretase Activity

γ-secretase mediates the intramembranous proteolysis of amyloid precursor protein (APP) and determines the generation of Aβ which is associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Here we identified that an anti-Parkinson’s disease drug, Istradefylline, could enhance Aβ generation in various cell lines and primary neuronal cells of APP/PS1 mouse. Moreover, the increased generation of Aβ₄₂ was detected in the cortex of APP/PS1 mouse after chronic treatment with Istradefylline. Istradefylline promoted the activity of γ-secretase which could lead to increased Aβ production. These effects of Istradefylline were reduced by the knockdown of A_2AR but independent of A_2AR-mediated G protein- or β-arrestin-dependent signal pathway. We further observed that A_2AR colocalized with γ-secretase in endosomes and physically interacted with the catalytic subunit presenilin-1 (PS1). Interestingly, Istradefylline attenuated the interaction in time- and dosage-dependent manners. Moreover the knockdown of A_2AR which in theory would release PS1 potentiated both Aβ generation and γ-secretase activity. Thus, our study implies that the association of A_2AR could modulate γ-secretase activity. Istradefylline enhance Aβ generation and γ-secretase activity possibly via modulating the interaction between A_2AR and γ-secretase, which may bring some undesired effects in the central nervous system (CNS).

Iron and restless legs syndrome: treatment, genetics and pathophysiology

In this article, we review the original findings from MRI and autopsy studies that demonstrated brain iron status is insufficient in individuals with restless legs syndrome (RLS). The concept of deficient brain iron status is supported by proteomic studies from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and from the clinical findings where intervention with iron, either dietary or intravenous, can improve RLS symptoms. Therefore, we include a section on peripheral iron status and how peripheral status may influence both the RLS symptoms and treatment strategy. Given the impact of iron in RLS, we have evaluated genetic data to determine if genes are directly involved in iron regulatory pathways. The result was negative. In fact, even the HFE mutation C282Y could not be shown to have a protective effect. Lastly, a consistent finding in conditions of low iron is increased expression of proteins in the hypoxia pathway. Although there is lack of clinical data that RLS patients are hypoxic, there are intriguing observations that environmental hypoxic conditions worsen RLS symptoms; in this chapter we review very compelling data for activation of hypoxic pathways in the brain in RLS patients. In general, the data in RLS point to a pathophysiology that involves decreased acquisition of iron by cells in the brain. Whether the decreased ability is genetically driven, activation of pathways (eg, hypoxia) that are designed to limit cellular uptake is unknown at this time; however, the data strongly support a functional rather than structural defect in RLS, suggesting that an effective treatment is possible.

How does adenosine control neuronal dysfunction and neurodegeneration?

The adenosine modulation system mostly operates through inhibitory A₁ (A₁ R) and facilitatory A_2A receptors (A_2A R) in the brain. The activity-dependent release of adenosine acts as a brake of excitatory transmission through A₁ R, which are enriched in glutamatergic terminals. Adenosine sharpens salience of information encoding in neuronal circuits: high-frequency stimulation triggers ATP release in the 'activated' synapse, which is locally converted by ecto-nucleotidases into adenosine to selectively activate A_2A R; A_2A R switch off A₁ R and CB1 receptors, bolster glutamate release and NMDA receptors to assist increasing synaptic plasticity in the 'activated' synapse; the parallel engagement of the astrocytic syncytium releases adenosine further inhibiting neighboring synapses, thus sharpening the encoded plastic change. Brain insults trigger a large outflow of adenosine and ATP, as a danger signal. A₁ R are a hurdle for damage initiation, but they desensitize upon prolonged activation. However, if the insult is near-threshold and/or of short-duration, A₁ R trigger preconditioning, which may limit the spread of damage. Brain insults also up-regulate A_2A R, probably to bolster adaptive changes, but this heightens brain damage since A_2A R blockade affords neuroprotection in models of epilepsy, depression, Alzheimer's, or Parkinson's disease. This initially involves a control of synaptotoxicity by neuronal A_2A R, whereas astrocytic and microglia A_2A R might control the spread of damage. The A_2A R signaling mechanisms are largely unknown since A_2A R are pleiotropic, coupling to different G proteins and non-canonical pathways to control the viability of glutamatergic synapses, neuroinflammation, mitochondria function, and cytoskeleton dynamics. Thus, simultaneously bolstering A₁ R preconditioning and preventing excessive A_2A R function might afford maximal neuroprotection. The main physiological role of the adenosine modulation system is to sharp the salience of information encoding through a combined action of adenosine A_2A receptors (A_2A R) in the synapse undergoing an alteration of synaptic efficiency with an increased inhibitory action of A₁ R in all surrounding synapses. Brain insults trigger an up-regulation of A_2A R in an attempt to bolster adaptive plasticity together with adenosine release and A₁ R desensitization; this favors synaptotocity (increased A_2A R) and decreases the hurdle to undergo degeneration (decreased A₁ R). Maximal neuroprotection is expected to result from a combined A_2A R blockade and increased A₁ R activation. This article is part of a mini review series: "Synaptic Function and Dysfunction in Brain Diseases".

Purinergic signalling and immune cells

This review article provides a historical perspective on the role of purinergic signalling in the regulation of various subsets of immune cells from early discoveries to current understanding. It is now recognised that adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) and other nucleotides are released from cells following stress or injury. They can act on virtually all subsets of immune cells through a spectrum of P2X ligand-gated ion channels and G protein-coupled P2Y receptors. Furthermore, ATP is rapidly degraded into adenosine by ectonucleotidases such as CD39 and CD73, and adenosine exerts additional regulatory effects through its own receptors. The resulting effect ranges from stimulation to tolerance depending on the amount and time courses of nucleotides released, and the balance between ATP and adenosine. This review identifies the various receptors involved in the different subsets of immune cells and their effects on the function of these cells.

The role of HIFs in ischemia-reperfusion injury

The reduction or cessation of the blood supply to an organ results in tissue ischemia. Ischemia can cause significant tissue damage, and is observed as a result of a thrombosis, as part of a disease process, and during surgery. However, the restoration of the blood supply often causes more damage to the tissue than the ischemic episode itself. Research is therefore focused on identifying the cellular pathways involved in the protection of organs from the damage incurred by this process of ischemia reperfusion (I/R). The hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) are a family of heterodimeric transcription factors that are stabilized during ischemia. The genes that are expressed downstream of HIF activity enhance oxygen-independent ATP generation, cell survival, and angiogenesis, amongst other phenotypes. They are, therefore, important factors in the protection of tissues from I/R injury. Interestingly, a number of the mechanisms already known to induce organ protection against I/R injury, including preconditioning, postconditioning, and activation of signaling pathways such as adenosine receptor signaling, converge on the HIF system. This review describes the evidence for HIFs playing a role in I/R protection mediated by these factors, highlights areas that require further study, and discuss whether HIFs themselves are good therapeutic targets for protecting tissues from I/R injury.

Functional polarization of tumour-associated macrophages by tumour-derived lactic acid

Macrophages have an important role in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. To perform this function, macrophages must have the capacity to monitor the functional states of their 'client cells': namely, the parenchymal cells in the various tissues in which macrophages reside. Tumours exhibit many features of abnormally developed organs, including tissue architecture and cellular composition. Similarly to macrophages in normal tissues and organs, macrophages in tumours (tumour-associated macrophages) perform some key homeostatic functions that allow tumour maintenance and growth. However, the signals involved in communication between tumours and macrophages are poorly defined. Here we show that lactic acid produced by tumour cells, as a by-product of aerobic or anaerobic glycolysis, has a critical function in signalling, through inducing the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and the M2-like polarization of tumour-associated macrophages. Furthermore, we demonstrate that this effect of lactic acid is mediated by hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α). Finally, we show that the lactate-induced expression of arginase 1 by macrophages has an important role in tumour growth. Collectively, these findings identify a mechanism of communication between macrophages and their client cells, including tumour cells. This communication most probably evolved to promote homeostasis in normal tissues but can also be engaged in tumours to promote their growth.

Adenosine is required for sustained inflammasome activation via the A₂A receptor and the HIF-1α pathway

Inflammasome pathways are important in chronic diseases, but it is not known how the signalling is sustained after initiation. Inflammasome activation is dependent on stimuli such as LPS and ATP that provide two distinct signals resulting in rapid production of IL-1β, with lack of response to repeat stimulation. Here we report that adenosine is a key regulator of inflammasome activity, increasing the duration of the inflammatory response via the A_2A receptor. Adenosine does not replace signals provided by stimuli such as LPS or ATP, but sustains inflammasome activity via a cAMP/PKA/CREB/HIF-1α pathway. In the setting of lack of IL-1β responses after previous exposure to LPS, adenosine can supersede this tolerogenic state and drive IL-1β production. These data reveal that inflammasome activity is sustained, after initial activation, by A_2A receptor-mediated signalling.

Altered brain iron homeostasis and dopaminergic function in Restless Legs Syndrome (Willis-Ekbom Disease)

Restless legs syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease (WED), is a sensorimotor disorder for which the exact pathophysiology remains unclear. Brain iron insufficiency and altered dopaminergic function appear to play important roles in the etiology of the disorder. This concept is based partly on extensive research studies using cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), autopsy material, and brain imaging indicating reduced regional brain iron and on the clinical efficacy of dopamine receptor agonists for alleviating RLS symptoms. Finding causal relations, linking low brain iron to altered dopaminergic function in RLS, has required however the use of animal models. These models have provided insights into how alterations in brain iron homeostasis and dopaminergic system may be involved in RLS. The results of animal models of RLS and biochemical, postmortem, and imaging studies in patients with the disease suggest that disruptions in brain iron trafficking lead to disturbances in striatal dopamine neurotransmission for at least some patients with RLS. This review examines the data supporting an iron deficiency-dopamine metabolic theory of RLS by relating the results from animal model investigations of the influence of brain iron deficiency on dopaminergic systems to data from clinical studies in patients with RLS.

Immunity, inflammation and cancer: a leading role for adenosine

Cancer is a complex disease that is dictated by both cancer cell-intrinsic and cell-extrinsic processes. Adenosine is an ancient extracellular signalling molecule that can regulate almost all aspects of tissue function. As such, several studies have recently highlighted a crucial role for adenosine signalling in regulating the various aspects of cell-intrinsic and cell-extrinsic processes of cancer development. This Review critically discusses the role of adenosine and its receptors in regulating the complex interplay among immune, inflammatory, endothelial and cancer cells during the course of neoplastic disease.

The A2A adenosine receptor is a dual coding gene: a novel mechanism of gene usage and signal transduction

The A2A adenosine receptor (A2AR) is a G protein-coupled receptor and a major target of caffeine. The A2AR gene encodes alternative transcripts that are initiated from at least two independent promoters. The different transcripts of the A2AR gene contain the same coding region and 3'-untranslated region and different 5'-untranslated regions that are highly conserved among species. We report here that in addition to the production of the A2AR protein, translation from an upstream, out-of-frame AUG of the rat A2AR gene produces a 134-amino acid protein (designated uORF5). An anti-uORF5 antibody recognized a protein of the predicted size of uORF5 in PC12 cells and rat brains. Up-regulation of A2AR transcripts by hypoxia led to increased levels of both the A2AR and uORF5 proteins. Moreover, stimulation of A2AR increased the level of the uORF5 protein via post-transcriptional regulation. Expression of the uORF5 protein suppressed the AP1-mediated transcription promoted by nerve growth factor and modulated the expression of several proteins that were implicated in the MAPK pathway. Taken together, our results show that the rat A2AR gene encodes two distinct proteins (A2AR and uORF5) in an A2AR-dependent manner. Our study reveals a new example of the complexity of the mammalian genome and provides novel insights into the function of A2AR.

Role of JunB in adenosine A2B receptor-mediated vascular endothelial growth factor production

Interstitial adenosine stimulates neovascularization in part through A2B adenosine receptor-dependent upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In the current study, we tested the hypothesis that A2B receptors upregulate JunB, which can contribute to stimulation of VEGF production. Using the human microvascular endothelial cell line, human mast cell line, mouse cardiac Sca1-positive stromal cells, and mouse Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells, we found that adenosine receptor-dependent upregulation of VEGF production was associated with an increase in VEGF transcription, activator protein-1 (AP-1) activity, and JunB accumulation in all cells investigated. Furthermore, the expression of JunB, but not the expression of other genes encoding transcription factors from the Jun family, was specifically upregulated. In LLC cells expressing A2A and A2B receptor transcripts, only the nonselective adenosine agonist NECA (5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine), but not the selective A2A receptor agonist CGS21680 [2-p-(2-carboxyethyl) phenylethylamino-5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine], significantly increased JunB reporter activity and JunB nuclear accumulation, which were inhibited by the A2B receptor antagonist PSB603 [(8-[4-[4-((4-chlorophenzyl)piperazide-1-sulfonyl)phenyl]]-1-propylxanthine]. Using activators and inhibitors of intracellular signaling, we demonstrated that A2B receptor-dependent accumulation of JunB protein and VEGF secretion share common intracellular pathways. NECA enhanced JunB binding to the murine VEGF promoter, whereas mutation of the high-affinity AP-1 site (-1093 to -1086) resulted in a loss of NECA-dependent VEGF reporter activity. Finally, NECA-dependent VEGF secretion and reporter activity were inhibited by the expression of a dominant negative JunB or by JunB knockdown. Thus, our data suggest an important role of the A2B receptor-dependent upregulation of JunB in VEGF production and possibly other AP-1-regulated events.

Hypoxia in atherosclerosis and inflammation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Hypoxia triggers various cellular processes, both in physiological and pathological conditions, and has recently also been implicated in atherosclerosis. This review summarizes the recent evidence for the presence and the role of hypoxia in atherosclerosis. Additionally, it will elucidate on hypoxic signaling, which is interlinked with inflammatory signaling, and discuss recent advances in imaging of hypoxia in atherosclerosis.

RECENT FINDINGS

Hypoxia is present in atherosclerotic plaques in humans and animal models, and systemic hypoxia promotes atherosclerosis. Hypoxia stimulates proatherosclerotic processes, like deficient lipid efflux, inflammation, interference with macrophage polarization and glucose metabolism. However, the molecular mechanism of hypoxia-mediated atherogenesis remains unclear. Noninvasive imaging directly targeting plaque hypoxia has been applied in animal models of atherosclerosis, but remains to be validated in humans. Meanwhile, the metabolic marker ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose, used to detect human atherosclerosis in vivo, may serve as an indirect marker of plaque hypoxia due to enhanced glucose uptake in anaerobic metabolism.

SUMMARY

Recent studies underscore the proatherogenic role of hypoxia in macrophage lipid and glucose metabolism, inflammation and polarization. These studies provide new insights into the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and unravel novel therapeutic targets and new options for noninvasive imaging of human atherosclerotic plaques.

Design and application of locally delivered agonists of the adenosine A(2A) receptor

The broad spectrum anti-inflammatory actions of adenosine A(2A) receptor agonists are well described. The wide distribution of this receptor, however, suggests that the therapeutic potential of these agents is likely to reside in topical treatments to avoid systemic side effects associated with oral administration. Adenosine A(2A) receptor agonists have been assessed as topical agents: GW328267X (GSK; allergic rhinitis and asthma), UK-432097 (Pfizer; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD]) and Sonedenoson (MRE0094, King Pharmaceuticals; wound healing). All trials failed to achieve effects against the desired clinical end points. This broad-based review will discuss general principles of chemical design of topically applied agents and potential therapeutic topical applications of current adenosine A(2A) receptor agonists. Potential factors contributing to the lack of efficacy in the above clinical trials will be discussed together with design principles, which may influence efficacy in disease states. Our analysis suggests that adenosine A(2A) receptor agonists have a wide therapeutic potential as topical agents in a wide variety of diseases, such as neutrophil-dependent lung diseases (acute lung injury, exacerbations in asthma and COPD), allergic rhinitis, glaucoma and wound repair. Factors that will influence topical activity include formulation, tissue retention, compound potency, receptor kinetics and pharmacokinetics.

Cardioprotection of controlled and cardiac-specific over-expression of A(2A)-adenosine receptor in the pressure overload

Adenosine binds to three G protein-coupled receptors (R) located on the cardiomyocyte (A(1)-R, A(2A)-R and A(3)-R) and provides cardiac protection during both ischemic and load-induced stress. While the role of adenosine receptor-subtypes has been well defined in the setting of ischemia-reperfusion, far less is known regarding their roles in protecting the heart during other forms of cardiac stress. Because of its ability to increase cardiac contractility and heart rate, we hypothesized that enhanced signaling through A(2A)-R would protect the heart during the stress of transverse aortic constriction (TAC). Using a cardiac-specific and inducible promoter, we selectively over-expressed A(2A)-R in FVB mice. Echocardiograms were obtained at baseline, 2, 4, 8, 12, 14 weeks and hearts were harvested at 14 weeks, when WT mice developed a significant decrease in cardiac function, an increase in end systolic and diastolic dimensions, a higher heart weight to body weight ratio (HW/BW), and marked fibrosis when compared with sham-operated WT. More importantly, these changes were significantly attenuated by over expression of the A(2A)-R. Furthermore, WT mice also demonstrated marked increases in the hypertrophic genes β-myosin heavy chain (β-MHC), and atrial natriuretic factor (ANF)--changes that are mediated by activation of the transcription factor GATA-4. Levels of the mRNAs encoding β-MHC, ANP, and GATA-4 were significantly lower in myocardium from A(2A)-R TG mice after TAC when compared with WT and sham-operated controls. In addition, three inflammatory factors genes encoding cysteine dioxygenase, complement component 3, and serine peptidase inhibitor, member 3N, were enhanced in WT TAC mice, but their expression was suppressed in A(2A)-R TG mice. A(2A)-R over-expression is protective against pressure-induced heart failure secondary to TAC. These cardioprotective effects are associated with attenuation of GATA-4 expression and inflammatory factors. The A(2A)-R may provide a novel new target for pharmacologic therapy in patients with cardiovascular disease.

Regulation of foam cells by adenosine

Macrophages rely on reverse cholesterol transport mechanisms to rid themselves of excess cholesterol. By reducing accumulation of cholesterol in the artery wall, reverse cholesterol transport slows or prevents development of atherosclerosis. In stable macrophages, efflux mechanisms balance influx mechanisms, and accumulating lipids do not overwhelm the cell. Under atherogenic conditions, inflow of cholesterol exceeds outflow, and the cell is ultimately transformed into a foam cell, the prototypical cell in the atherosclerotic plaque. Adenosine is an endogenous purine nucleoside released from metabolically active cells by facilitated diffusion and generated extracellularly from adenine nucleotides. Under stress conditions, such as hypoxia, a depressed cellular energy state leads to an acute increase in the extracellular concentration of adenosine. Extracellular adenosine interacts with 1 or more of a family of G protein-coupled receptors (A(1), A(2A), A(2B), and A(3)) to modulate the function of nearly all cells and tissues. Modulation of adenosine signaling participates in regulation of reverse cholesterol transport. Of particular note for the development of atherosclerosis, activation of A(2A) receptors dramatically inhibits inflammation and protects against tissue injury. Potent antiatherosclerotic effects of A(2A) receptor stimulation include inhibition of macrophage foam cell transformation and upregulation of the reverse cholesterol transport proteins cholesterol 27-hydroxylase and ATP binding cassette transporter A1. Thus, A(2A) receptor agonists may correct or prevent the adverse effects of inflammatory processes on cellular cholesterol homeostasis. This review focuses on the importance of extracellular adenosine acting at specific receptors as a regulatory mechanism to control the formation of foam cells under conditions of lipid loading.

Regulation of macrophage function by adenosine

Following its release into the extracellular space in response to metabolic disturbances, the endogenous nucleoside adenosine exerts a range of immunomodulatory effects and cells of the mononuclear phagocyte system are among its major targets. Adenosine governs mononuclear phagocyte functions via 4 G-protein-coupled cell membrane receptors, which are denoted A(1), A(2A), A(2B), and A(3) receptors. Adenosine promotes osteoclast differentiation via A(1) receptors and alters monocyte to dendritic cell differentiation through A(2B) receptors. Adenosine downregulates classical macrophage activation mainly through A(2A) receptors. In contrast A(2B) receptor activation upregulates alternative macrophage activation. Adenosine promotes angiogenesis, which is mediated by inducing the production of vascular endothelial growth factor by mononuclear phagocytes through A(2A), A(2B), and A(3) receptors. By regulating mononuclear phagocyte function adenosine dictates the course of inflammatory and vascular diseases and cancer.

Role of hypoxia-inducible factors in the dexrazoxane-mediated protection of cardiomyocytes from doxorubicin-induced toxicity

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Iron aggravates the cardiotoxicity of doxorubicin, a widely used anticancer anthracycline, and the iron chelator dexrazoxane is the only agent protecting against doxorubicin cardiotoxicity; however, the mechanisms underlying the role of iron in doxorubicin-mediated cardiotoxicity and the protective role of dexrazoxane remain to be established. As iron is required for the degradation of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF), which control the expression of antiapoptotic and protective genes, we tested the hypothesis that dexrazoxane-dependent HIF activation may mediate the cardioprotective effect of dexrazoxane.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Cell death, protein levels (by immunoblotting) and HIF-mediated transcription (using reporter constructs) were evaluated in the rat H9c2 cardiomyocyte cell line exposed to low doses of doxorubicin with or without dexrazoxane pretreatment. HIF levels were genetically manipulated by transfecting dominant-negative mutants or short hairpin RNA.

KEY RESULTS

Treatment with dexrazoxane induced HIF-1α and HIF-2α protein levels and transactivation capacity in H9c2 cells. It also prevented the induction of cell death and apoptosis by exposure of H9c2 cells to clinically relevant concentrations of doxorubicin. Suppression of HIF activity strongly reduced the protective effect of dexrazoxane. Conversely, HIF-1α overexpression protected against doxorubicin-mediated cell death and apoptosis also in cells not exposed to the chelator. Exposure to dexrazoxane increased the expression of the HIF-regulated, antiapoptotic proteins survivin, Mcl1 and haem oxygenase.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Our results showing HIF-dependent prevention of doxorubicin toxicity in dexrazoxane-treated H9c2 cardiomyocytes suggest that HIF activation may be a mechanism contributing to the protective effect of dexrazoxane against anthracycline cardiotoxicity.

Adenosine A₂a receptors and O₂ sensing in development

Reduced mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, via activation of adenylate kinase and the resulting exponential rise in the cellular AMP/ATP ratio, appears to be a critical factor underlying O₂ sensing in many chemoreceptive tissues in mammals. The elevated AMP/ATP ratio, in turn, activates key enzymes that are involved in physiologic adjustments that tend to balance ATP supply and demand. An example is the conversion of AMP to adenosine via 5'-nucleotidase and the resulting activation of adenosine A(₂A) receptors, which are involved in acute oxygen sensing by both carotid bodies and the brain. In fetal sheep, A(₂A) receptors associated with carotid bodies trigger hypoxic cardiovascular chemoreflexes, while central A(₂A) receptors mediate hypoxic inhibition of breathing and rapid eye movements. A(₂A) receptors are also involved in hypoxic regulation of fetal endocrine systems, metabolism, and vascular tone. In developing lambs, A(₂A) receptors play virtually no role in O₂ sensing by the carotid bodies, but brain A(₂A) receptors remain critically involved in the roll-off ventilatory response to hypoxia. In adult mammals, A(₂A) receptors have been implicated in O₂ sensing by carotid glomus cells, while central A(₂A) receptors likely blunt hypoxic hyperventilation. In conclusion, A(₂A) receptors are crucially involved in the transduction mechanisms of O₂ sensing in fetal carotid bodies and brains. Postnatally, central A(₂A) receptors remain key mediators of hypoxic respiratory depression, but they are less critical for O₂ sensing in carotid chemoreceptors, particularly in developing lambs.

Cooperation of adenosine with macrophage Toll-4 receptor agonists leads to increased glycolytic flux through the enhanced expression of PFKFB3 gene

Macrophages activated through Toll receptor triggering increase the expression of the A(2A) and A(2B) adenosine receptors. In this study, we show that adenosine receptor activation enhances LPS-induced pfkfb3 expression, resulting in an increase of the key glycolytic allosteric regulator fructose 2,6-bisphosphate and the glycolytic flux. Using shRNA and differential expression of A(2A) and A(2B) receptors, we demonstrate that the A(2A) receptor mediates, in part, the induction of pfkfb3 by LPS, whereas the A(2B) receptor, with lower adenosine affinity, cooperates when high adenosine levels are present. pfkfb3 promoter sequence deletion analysis, site-directed mutagenesis, and inhibition by shRNAs demonstrated that HIF1α is a key transcription factor driving pfkfb3 expression following macrophage activation by LPS, whereas synergic induction of pfkfb3 expression observed with the A(2) receptor agonists seems to depend on Sp1 activity. Furthermore, levels of phospho-AMP kinase also increase, arguing for increased PFKFB3 activity by phosphorylation in long term LPS-activated macrophages. Taken together, our results show that, in macrophages, endogenously generated adenosine cooperates with bacterial components to increase PFKFB3 isozyme activity, resulting in greater fructose 2,6-bisphosphate accumulation. This process enhances the glycolytic flux and favors ATP generation helping to develop and maintain the long term defensive and reparative functions of the macrophages.

Activation of adenosine A2A receptors by polydeoxyribonucleotide increases vascular endothelial growth factor and protects against testicular damage induced by experimental varicocele in rats

In rat experimental varicocele, polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) induces vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production, thereby enhancing testicular function. This may point to a new therapeutic approach in human varicocele.

Interactions between nitric oxide and hypoxia-inducible factor signaling pathways in inflammatory disease

Induction and activation of nitric oxide (NO) synthases (NOS) and excessive production of NO are common features of almost all diseases associated with infection and acute or chronic inflammation, although the contribution of NO to the pathophysiology of these diseases is highly multifactorial and often still a matter of controversy. Because of its direct impact on tissue oxygenation and cellular oxygen (O(2)) consumption and re-distribution, the ability of NO to regulate various aspects of hypoxia-induced signaling has received widespread attention. Conditions of tissue hypoxia and the activation of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF) have been implicated in hypoxia or in cancer biology, but are also being increasingly recognized as important features of acute and chronic inflammation. Thus, the activation of HIF transcription factors has been increasingly implicated in inflammatory diseases, and recent studies have indicated its critical importance in regulating phagocyte function, inflammatory mediator production, and regulation of epithelial integrity and repair processes. Finally, HIF also appears to contribute to important features of tissue fibrosis and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, processes that are associated with tissue remodeling in various non-malignant chronic inflammatory disorders. In this review, we briefly summarize the current state of knowledge with respect to the general mechanisms involved in HIF regulation and the impact of NO on HIF activation. Secondly, we will summarize the major recent findings demonstrating a role for HIF signaling in infection, inflammation, and tissue repair and remodeling, and will address the involvement of NO. The growing interest in hypoxia-induced signaling and its relation with NO biology is expected to lead to further insights into the complex roles of NO in acute or chronic inflammatory diseases and may point to the importance of HIF signaling as key feature of NO-mediated events during these disorders.

Adenosine A(2)A receptor but not HIF-1 mediates Tyrosine hydroxylase induction in hypoxic PC12 cells

Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) is the rate-limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis of catecholamines released by oxygen-sensitive cells in response to hypoxic conditions. Adenosine is released in response to hypoxia in the central nervous system and CGS21680, an adenosine A(2)A receptor agonist, induces TH transcription. As we have previously demonstrated the A(2)A receptor-mediated induction of HIF-1 in macrophages and hepatocytes, we investigated the involvement of HIF-1 in the adenosine-mediated activation of TH expression. Exposure to adenosine or CGS21680 increased TH mRNA and protein levels in PC12 cells. Transcription of a reporter gene under the control of the wild type rat TH promoter was induced 3.5-fold in CGS21680-treated cells, but neither the mutation of the hypoxia responsive element in the TH promoter nor the co-transfection of a dominant negative of the HIF-1 beta subunit prevented the increase in transcription; furthermore, CGS21680 increased CREB binding activity but did not induce HIF-1 DNA binding activity or protein levels. To investigate whether HIF-1 was involved in the hypoxia-mediated induction of TH, PC12 cells were exposed to hypoxia in the presence of the A(2)A receptor antagonist ZM241385, which prevented hypoxia-dependent TH induction despite HIF-1 activation; in line with this finding, the inhibition of HIF-1 did not abolish TH induction in hypoxic PC12 cells. These results indicate that, under hypoxic conditions, TH (a key factor in systemic adaptation to reduced oxygen availability) is not regulated by HIF-1, the primary modulator of the response to hypoxia, but by the adenosine A(2)A receptor-mediated signalling pathway.

Blood-induced joint disease: the pathophysiology of hemophilic arthropathy

Arthropathy is a frequent and serious complication of repeated joint bleeding in patients with hemophilia, resulting in pain, deformity, and disability. Although the pathogenesis of hemophilic arthropathy has not been fully elucidated, it appears to have similarities with the degenerative joint damage that occurs in osteoarthritis and the inflammatory processes associated with rheumatoid arthritis. This article reviews the potential actions of various blood constituents on joint components that culminate in the development of hemophilic arthropathy.

Angiogenic imbalances: the obstetric perspective

Clinical and experimental evidence indicates that angiogenic imbalances may participate in the mechanisms of disease of several pregnancy complications, some of which may be life threatening. This article reviews current evidence in support of this view and the possibility that the fetus may play a central role in these imbalances; it also reviews recent experimental observations that modulation of angiogenic imbalances during pregnancy may have prophylactic and/or therapeutic value.

Adenosine modulates HIF-1{alpha}, VEGF, IL-8, and foam cell formation in a human model of hypoxic foam cells

OBJECTIVE

Foam cell (FC) formation by oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) accumulation in macrophages is crucial for development of atherosclerosis. Hypoxia has been demonstrated in atherosclerosis and hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) has been shown to promote intraplaque angiogenesis and FC development. As hypoxia induces HIF-1alpha stabilization and adenosine (ado) accumulation, we investigated whether this nucleoside regulates HIF-1alpha in FCs.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Ado, under hypoxia, stimulates HIF-1alpha accumulation by activating all adenosine receptors (ARs). HIF-1alpha modulation involved extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK 1/2), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), and protein kinase B (Akt) phosphorylation in the case of A(1), A(2A), A(2B), and ERK 1/2 phosphorylation in the case of A(3) receptors. Ado, through the activation of A(3) and A(2B) receptors, stimulates vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion in a HIF-1alpha-dependent way. Furthermore, ado, through the A(2B) subtype, induces an increase of Interleukin-8 (IL-8) secretion in a ERK 1/2, p38, and Akt kinase-dependent but not HIF-1alpha-mediated way. Finally, ado stimulates FC formation, and this effect is strongly reduced by A(3) and A(2B) blockers and by HIF-1alpha silencing.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides the first evidence that A(3,) A(2B), or mixed A(3)/A(2B) antagonists may be useful to block important steps in the atherosclerotic plaque development ado-induced.