Vitronectin is expressed in the ventral region of the neural tube and promotes the differentiation of motor neurons

Role of Vitronectin and Its Receptors in Neuronal Function and Neurodegenerative Diseases

Vitronectin (VTN), a multifunctional glycoprotein with various physiological functions, exists in plasma and the extracellular matrix. It is known to be involved in the cell attachment, spreading and migration through binding to the integrin receptor, mainly via the RGD sequence. VTN is also widely used in the maintenance and expansion of pluripotent stem cells, but its effects go beyond that. Recent evidence shows more functions of VTN in the nervous system as it participates in neural differentiation, neuronutrition and neurogenesis, as well as in regulating axon size, supporting and guiding neurite extension. Furthermore, VTN was proved to play a key role in protecting the brain as it can reduce the permeability of the blood-brain barrier by interacting with integrin receptors in vascular endothelial cells. Moreover, evidence suggests that VTN is associated with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, but its function has not been fully understood. This review summarizes the functions of VTN and its receptors in neurons and describes the role of VTN in the blood-brain barrier and neurodegenerative diseases.

Vitronectin regulates the axon specification of mouse cerebellar granule cell precursors via αvβ5 integrin in the differentiation stage

Vitronectin, an extracellular matrix protein, controls the differentiation of cerebellar granule cell precursors (CGCPs) via αvβ5 integrin, particularly in the initial stage of differentiation to granule cells. In this study, we determined whether vitronectin regulates axon specification in this initial differentiation stage of CGCPs. First, we analyzed whether vitronectin deficiency, β5 integrin knockdown (KD), and β5 integrin overexpression affect axon specification of primary cultured CGCPs. Vitronectin deficiency and β5 integrin KD inhibited axon formation, while vitronectin administrated- and β5 integrin overexpressed-neurons formed multiple axons. Moreover, KD of β5 integrin suppressed vitronectin-induced multiple axon formation. These findings indicate that vitronectin contributes to regulating axon specification via αvβ5 integrin in CGCPs. Next, we determined the signaling pathway involved in regulating vitronectin-induced axon specification. Wortmannin, an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), inhibited vitronectin-induced multiple axon specification, and lithium chloride, an inhibitor of glyocogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β), attenuated the inhibitory effect of vitronectin-KO and β5 integrin KD on the specification of CGCPs. In addition, vitronectin induced the phosphorylation of protein kinase B (Akt) and GSK3β in neuroblastoma Neuro2a cells. Taken together, our results indicate that vitronectin plays an important factor in axon formation process in CGCPs via a β5 integrin/PI3K/GSK3β pathway.

Vitronectin is Involved in the Morphological Transition of Neurites in Retinoic Acid-Induced Neurogenesis of Neuroblastoma Cell Line Neuro2a

Vitronectin (Vtn), one of the extracellular matrix proteins, has been reported to result in cell cycle exit, neurite formation, and polarization of neural progenitor cells during neurogenesis. The underlying mechanism, however, has not been fully understood. In this study, we investigated the roles of Vtn and its integrin receptors, during the transition of neurites from multipolar to bipolar morphology, accompanying the cell cycle exit in neural progenitor cells. We used mouse neuroblastoma cell line Neuro2a as a model of neural progenitor cells which can induce cell cycle exit and the morphological transition of neurites by retinoic acid (RA)-stimulation. Treatment with an antibody for Vtn suppressed the RA-induced cell cycle exit and multipolar-to-bipolar transition. Furthermore, immunostaining results showed that in the cells displaying multipolar morphology Vtn was partially localized at the tips of neurites and in cells displaying bipolar morphology at both tips. This Vtn localization and multipolar-to-bipolar transition was perturbed by the transfection of a dominant negative mutant of cell polarity regulator Par6. In addition, a knockdown of β5 integrin, which is a receptor candidate for Vtn, affected the multipolar-to-bipolar transition. Taken together, these results suggest that Vtn regulates the multipolar-to-bipolar morphological transition via αvβ5 integrin.

αvβ5 integrin mediates the effect of vitronectin on the initial stage of differentiation in mouse cerebellar granule cell precursors

Vitronectin (VN), one of the extracellular matrix proteins, controls the maturation of cerebellar granule cells (CGCs) through the promotion of the initial differentiation stage progress. However, the receptors of VN in the initial differentiation stage of CGC precursors (CGCPs) have not been clarified. In this study, we characterized the receptor candidates for VN in CGCPs. First, we confirmed that αvβ3 and αvβ5 integrins, which are receptor candidates for VN, were co-localized with VN in the developing cerebellum and primary cultured CGCPs. Next, the knockdown (KD) of αv, β3, and β5 integrins with small interference RNA (siRNA) for each integrin reduced the ratio of Tuj1, a final differentiation marker, -positive CGCPs. We further studied whether αvβ3 and αvβ5 integrins control the initial differentiation stage. The KD of αv and β5, but not β3, integrins significantly increased the ratio of transient axonal glycoprotein 1 (TAG1), an initial differentiation marker, -positive CGCPs, whereas the KD of αv and β3 integrins, not β5 integrin, stimulated the proliferation of CGCPs. Overexpression of β5 integrin stimulated the progress of the initial differentiation stage as well. To confirm the interaction between αvβ5 integrin and VN, VN was added to β5 integrin-KD CGCPs. The promotion of the progress of initial differentiation by VN was abrogated by β5 integrin KD using small hairpin RNA (shRNA). Taken together, our results indicated that αvβ5 integrin, as the very receptor of VN, is responsible for the progress of the initial differentiation stage in mouse CGCPs.

Vitronectin promotes the progress of the initial differentiation stage in cerebellar granule cells

Vitronectin (VN), which is an extracellular matrix protein, is known to be involved in the proliferation and differentiation of primary cultured cerebellar granule cell precursors (CGCPs); however, the effect of VN is not fully understood. In this study, we analyzed the effects of VN loss on the proliferation and differentiation of CGCPs in VN knockout (VNKO) mice in vivo. First, immunohistochemistry showed that VN was distributed in the region from the inner external granule layer (iEGL) through the internal granule layer (IGL) in wild-type (WT) mice. Next, we observed the formation of the cerebellar cortex using sagittal sections of VNKO mice at postnatal days (P) 5, 8 and 11. Loss of VN suppressed the ratio of NeuN, a neuronal differentiation marker, to positive cerebellar granule cells (CGCs) in the external granule layer (EGL) and the ratio of CGCs in the IGL at P8, indicating that the loss of VN suppresses the differentiation into CGCs. However, the loss of VN did not significantly affect the proliferation of CGCPs. Next, the effect of VN loss on the initial differentiation stage of CGCPs was examined. The loss of VN increased the expression levels of Transient axonal glycoprotein 1 (TAG1), a marker of neurons in the initial differentiation stage, in the cerebella of VNKO mice at P5 and 8 and increased the ratio of TAG1-positive cells in the primary culture of VNKO-derived CGCPs, indicating that the loss of VN accumulates the CGCPs in the initial differentiation stage. Taken together, these results demonstrate that VN promotes the progress of the initial differentiation stage of CGCPs.

The notochord: structure and functions

The notochord is an embryonic midline structure common to all members of the phylum Chordata, providing both mechanical and signaling cues to the developing embryo. In vertebrates, the notochord arises from the dorsal organizer and it is critical for proper vertebrate development. This evolutionary conserved structure located at the developing midline defines the primitive axis of embryos and represents the structural element essential for locomotion. Besides its primary structural function, the notochord is also a source of developmental signals that patterns surrounding tissues. Among the signals secreted by the notochord, Hedgehog proteins play key roles during embryogenesis. The Hedgehog signaling pathway is a central regulator of embryonic development, controlling the patterning and proliferation of a wide variety of organs. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on notochord structure and functions, with a particular emphasis on the key developmental events that take place in vertebrates. Moreover, we discuss some genetic studies highlighting the phenotypic consequences of impaired notochord development, which enabled to understand the molecular basis of different human congenital defects and diseases.

Nanofibrous hydrogels with spatially patterned biochemical signals to control cell behavior

The ability to spatially pattern biochemical signals into nanofibrous materials using thiol-ene reactions of thiolated molecules to presented norbornene groups is demonstrated. This approach is used to pattern three molecules independently within one scaffold, to pattern molecules through the depth of a scaffold, and to spatially control cell adhesion and morphology.

Lessons from the embryonic neural stem cell niche for neural lineage differentiation of pluripotent stem cells

Pluripotent stem cells offer an abundant and malleable source for the generation of differentiated cells for transplantation as well as for in vitro screens. Patterning and differentiation protocols have been developed to generate neural progeny from human embryonic or induced pluripotent stem cells. However, continued refinement is required to enhance efficiency and to prevent the generation of unwanted cell types. We summarize and interpret insights gained from studies of embryonic neuroepithelium. A multitude of factors including soluble molecules, interactions with the extracellular matrix and neighboring cells cooperate to control neural stem cell self-renewal versus differentiation. Applying these findings and concepts to human stem cell systems in vitro may yield more appropriately patterned cell types for biomedical applications.

The extracellular matrix molecule tenascin C modulates expression levels and territories of key patterning genes during spinal cord astrocyte specification

The generation of astrocytes during the development of the mammalian spinal cord is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that the extracellular matrix glycoprotein tenascin C regulates the expression of key patterning genes during late embryonic spinal cord development, leading to a timely maturation of gliogenic neural precursor cells. We first show that tenascin C is expressed by gliogenic neural precursor cells during late embryonic development. The loss of tenascin C leads to a sustained generation and delayed migration of Fgfr3-expressing immature astrocytes in vivo. Consistent with an increased generation of astroglial cells, we documented an increased number of GFAP-positive astrocytes at later stages. Mechanistically, we could demonstrate an upregulation and domain shift of the patterning genes Nkx6.1 and Nkx2.2 in vivo. In addition, sulfatase 1, a known downstream target of Nkx2.2 in the ventral spinal cord, was also upregulated. Sulfatase 1 regulates growth factor signalling by cleaving sulphate residues from heparan sulphate proteoglycans. Consistent with this function, we observed changes in both FGF2 and EGF responsiveness of spinal cord neural precursor cells. Taken together, our data implicate Tnc in the regulation of proliferation and lineage progression of astroglial progenitors in specific domains of the developing spinal cord.

Overlapping roles and collective requirement for the coreceptors GAS1, CDO, and BOC in SHH pathway function

Secreted Hedgehog (HH) ligands signal through the canonical receptor Patched (PTCH1). However, recent studies implicate three additional HH-binding, cell-surface proteins, GAS1, CDO, and BOC, as putative coreceptors for HH ligands. A central question is to what degree these coreceptors function similarly and what their collective requirement in HH signal transduction is. Here we provide evidence that GAS1, CDO, and BOC play overlapping and essential roles during HH-mediated ventral neural patterning of the mammalian neural tube. Specifically, we demonstrate two important roles for these molecules: an early role in cell fate specification of multiple neural progenitors and a later role in motor neuron progenitor maintenance. Most strikingly, genetic loss-of-function experiments indicate an obligatory requirement for GAS1, CDO, and BOC in HH pathway activity in multiple tissues.

Characterization of a human fetal spinal cord stem cell line, NSI-566RSC, and its induction to functional motoneurons

Specific neuronal subtypes, especially motoneurons (MNs), derived from human stem cells provide a significant therapeutic potential for spinal cord diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal cord injury. So far, in vitro, MNs have only been successfully induced from embryonic stem cells (hESC) and human fetal cortical progenitors. Although neural progenitors from spinal cord would be a likely source for generating MNs, there has been no study reporting successful in vitro differentiation of MNs from spinal cord progenitors. This study first characterized a polyclonal spinal cord stem cell line isolated from an 8 week-old fetus. Then a paradigm was introduced to successfully induce MNs from this cell line, which was demonstrated by immunostaining using the MN markers HB9, Islet1 and choline acetyl transferase (ChAT). The combination of HB9 and ChAT immunostainings indicated that approximately 20% of the cells were MNs after this induction protocol. The presence of other cell types in the differentiated culture was also analysed. Finally, the electrophysiological properties of these differentiated MNs were characterized to confirm their functional integrity. The majority of these MNs fired repetitive action potentials (APs), which is an indicator of functional maturation. The recordings of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) confirmed the formation of synapses onto these MNs. This study reports the first successful differentiation of MNs from human spinal cord stem cells in vitro, providing a novel approach for obtaining functional MNs when designing the therapeutic strategy for spinal cord diseases or injuries.

Cell adhesion glycoprotein vitronectin during Xenopus laevis embryogenesis

Vitronectin (vn) is a cell-adhesive glycoprotein present in blood and extracellular matrix of all vertebrates. In the present study we reported the cDNA cloning of Xenopus laevisvitronectin and its spatial and temporal expression pattern during the embryonic development of this important model organism. The deduced amino acid sequence of Xenopus laevis vn showed 49%, 47% and 43% identity with human, chicken and zebrafish orthologs, respectively, whereas the comparison with Xenopus tropicalis vn presented 85% identity. The structural organization consisting of a somatomedin B domain and two hemopexin-like domains was similar to higher vertebrate vitronectins. The vn transcripts were detected from stage 28 onward. At tadpole stages, vn is expressed in heart, gut derivatives and in the notochord. The protein was detected in heart, liver, foregut, pronephros and notochord at stages 43 and 47 of Xenopus embryos. Our results suggest that vitronectin is developmentally regulated and could participate in embryo organogenesis.

The bladder extracellular matrix. Part I: architecture, development and disease

From the earliest studies with epithelial cells implanted into detrusor muscle to later experiments on smooth muscle in defined collagen gels, cell niche and extracellular matrix (ECM) have been clearly shown to orchestrate cellular behavior and fate whether quiescent, migratory, or proliferative. Normal matrix can revert transformed cells to quiescence, and damaged matrix can trigger malignancy or dedifferentiation. ECM influence in disease, development, healing and regeneration has been demonstrated in many other fields of study, but a thorough examination of the roles of ECM in bladder cell activity has not yet been undertaken. Structural ECM proteins, in concert with adhesive proteins, provide crucial structural support to the bladder. Both structural and nonstructural components of the bladder have major effects on smooth muscle function, through effects on matrix rigidity and signaling through ECM receptors. While many ECM components and receptors identified in the bladder have specific known functions in the vascular smooth musculature, their function in the bladder is often less well defined. In cancer and obstructive disease, the ECM has a critical role in pathogenesis. The challenge in these settings will be to find therapies that prevent hyperproliferation and encourage proper differentiation, through an understanding of matrix effects on cell biology and susceptibility to therapeutics.

Developmental expression of prion protein and its ligands stress-inducible protein 1 and vitronectin

Prion protein (PrP(C)) is the normal isoform of PrP(Sc), a protein involved in neurodegenerative disorders. PrP(C) participates in neuritogenesis, neuroprotection, and memory consolidation through its interaction with the secreted protein stress-inducible protein 1 (STI1) and the extracellular matrix protein vitronectin (Vn). Although PrP(C) mRNA expression has been documented during embryogenesis, its protein expression patterns have not been evaluated. Furthermore, little is known about either Vn or STI protein expression. In this study, PrP(C), STI1, and Vn protein expression was explored throughout mouse embryonic life. We found that the distributions of the three proteins were spatiotemporally related. STI1 and Vn expression became evident at E8, earlier than PrP(C), in the nervous system and heart. At E10, we observed, in the spinal cord, a gradient of expression of the three proteins, more abundant in the notochord and floor plate, suggesting that they can have a role in axonal growth. As development proceeded, the three proteins were detected in other organs, suggesting that they may play a role in the development of nonneural tissues as well. Finally, although STI1 and Vn are PrP(C) ligands, their expression was not altered in PrP(C)-null mice.

Vitronectin promotes oligodendrocyte differentiation during neurogenesis of human embryonic stem cells

We demonstrate enhanced differentiation of oligodendrocytes during neurogenesis of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) using an extracellular matrix protein, vitronectin (VN). We show that VN is expressed in the ventral part of the developing human spinal cord. Combined treatment of retinoic acid, sonic hedgehog, and noggin in the presence of VN allows hESCs to differentiate into O4-positive oligodendrocytes. Particularly, VN profoundly promotes the derivation of oligodendrocyte progenitors that proliferate and differentiate into oligodendrocytes in response to mitogenic and survival factors. These results support the beneficial effect of VN on oligodendrocytic differentiation of hESCs.

The vitronectin gene in rainbow trout: cloning, expression and phylogenetic analysis

Vitronectin is a major cell adhesion glycoprotein that is found in plasma and the extracellular matrix. Vitronectin consists of an N-terminal somatomedin B domain and two hemopexin-like domains and controls functions including cell adhesion, migration, haemostasis and immune defence. In order to study the molecular evolution of the complement lytic pathway regulation, we have cloned and characterized the vitronectin gene from rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). The deduced amino acid sequence of trout vitronectin exhibits 45%, 46%, 47% and 63% identity with human, chicken, Xenopus and zebrafish orthologs, respectively. The domain architecture of the trout vitronectin, consisting of a somatomedin B domain and two hemopexin-like domains, resembles that of mammalian vitronectins. Analysis of partial genomic clones shows that trout vitronectin gene exhibits the same exon-intron organization profile as the human ortholog gene. The trout vitronectin gene is probably present as a single copy in the trout genome, showing a differential expression pattern among tissues investigated.

Differentiation of the vertebrate retina is coordinated by an FGF signaling center

In vertebrates, midline-derived sonic hedgehog and nodal are crucial for the initial proximal-distal patterning of the eye. The establishment of the distal optic stalk is in turn a prerequisite to initiate retinogenesis. However, the signal that activates this process is unknown. Here, we demonstrate that in both chick and fish, the initiation of retinal differentiation is triggered by a species-specific localized Fgf signaling center that acts as mediator of the midline signals. The concerted activity of Fgf8 and Fgf3 is both necessary and sufficient to coordinate retinal differentiation independent of the connecting optic stalk.

Poliovirus, pathogenesis of poliomyelitis, and apoptosis

Poliovirus (PV) is the causal agent of paralytic poliomyelitis, an acute disease of the central nervous system (CNS) resulting in flaccid paralysis. The development of new animal and cell models has allowed the key steps of the pathogenesis of poliomyelitis to be investigated at the molecular level. In particular, it has been shown that PV-induced apoptosis is an important component of the tissue injury in the CNS of infected mice, which leads to paralysis. In this review the molecular biology of PV and the pathogenesis of poliomyelitis are briefly described, and then several models of PV-induced apoptosis are considered; the role of the cellular receptor of PV, CD155, in the modulation of apoptosis is also addressed.

Differential requirement for Gli2 and Gli3 in ventral neural cell fate specification

Sonic hedgehog (Shh) directs the development of ventral cell fates, including floor plate and V3 interneurons, in the mouse neural tube. Here, we show that the transcription factors Gli2 and Gli3, mediators of Shh signaling, are required for the development of the ventral cell fates but make distinct contributions to controlling cell fates at different locations along the rostral-caudal axis. Mutants lacking Patched1 (Ptc1), the putative receptor of Shh, were used to analyze Gli functions. Ptc1(-/-) mutants develop floor plate, motor neuron, and V3 interneuron progenitors in lateral and dorsal regions, suggesting that the normal role of Ptc1 is to suppress ventral cell development in dorsal neural tube. The Ptc1(-/-) phenotype is rescued, with restoration of dorsal cell types, by the lack of Gli2, but only in the caudal neural tube. In triple mutants of Gli2, Gli3, and Ptc1, dorsal and lateral cell fates are restored in the entire neural tube. These observations suggest that Gli2 is essential for ventral specification in the caudal neural tube, and that in more rostral regions, only Gli3 can promote development of ventral cells if Gli2 is absent. Thus, Shh signaling is mediated by overlapping but distinct functions of Gli2 and Gli3, and their relative contributions vary along the rostral-caudal axis.

Developmental roles and clinical significance of hedgehog signaling

Cell signaling plays a key role in the development of all multicellular organisms. Numerous studies have established the importance of Hedgehog signaling in a wide variety of regulatory functions during the development of vertebrate and invertebrate organisms. Several reviews have discussed the signaling components in this pathway, their various interactions, and some of the general principles that govern Hedgehog signaling mechanisms. This review focuses on the developing systems themselves, providing a comprehensive survey of the role of Hedgehog signaling in each of these. We also discuss the increasing significance of Hedgehog signaling in the clinical setting.

Poliovirus-induced apoptosis is reduced in cells expressing a mutant CD155 selected during persistent poliovirus infection in neuroblastoma cells

Poliovirus (PV) can establish persistent infections in human neuroblastoma IMR-32 cells. We previously showed that during persistent infection, specific mutations were selected in the first extracellular domain of the PV receptor (CD155) of these cells (N. Pavio, T. Couderc, S. Girard, J. Y. Sgro, B. Blondel, and F. Colbère-Garapin, Virology 274:331-342, 2000). These mutations included the Ala 67 --> Thr substitution, corresponding to a previously described allelic form of the PV receptor. The mutated CD155(Thr67) and the nonmutated IMR-32 CD155 (CD155(IMR)) were expressed independently in murine LM cells lacking the CD155 gene. Following infection of the cells with PV, we analyzed the death of cells expressing these two forms of CD155. Levels of DNA fragmentation, caspase activity, and cytochrome c release were lower in LM-CD155(Thr67) cells than in LM-CD155(IMR) cells. Thus, the level of apoptosis was lower in cells expressing mutated CD155 selected during persistent PV infection in IMR-32 than in cells expressing the wild-type receptor.

Foxa (HNF3) up-regulates vitronectin expression during retinoic acid-induced differentiation in mouse neuroblastoma Neuro2a cells

Accumulation of vitronectin protein increased in the conditioned medium of mouse neuroblastoma Neuro2a cells during retinoic acid-induced differentiation. To study the regulatory mechanism of the increase in vitronectin expression during the differentiation, the activity of the -527/+95 vitronectin promoter was observed in Neuro2a cells with or without retinoic acid treatment. The result showed that the -527/+95 promoter activity increased 2.7-fold with retinoic acid, and despite deletion of regions from -527 to -49 and +54 to +95 base pairs (bp), the -48/+53 promoter preserved the retinoic acid response. We recently showed that the -48/+53 region has two transcription factor Foxa (HNF3)-binding sites (site A from -34 to -25 bp and site B from +15 to +26 bp), suggesting that Foxa may up-regulate the vitronectin expression. Therefore, we examined the change of Foxa expression in Neuro2a cells during the differentiation. The expression of Foxa1 protein was increased during the differentiation, but the expression of Foxa2 protein was not detected. In addition, overexpression of Foxa1 increased the amount of vitronectin protein in the conditioned medium of Foxa1-overexpressed Neuro2a cells, but overexpression of Foxa2 only weakly increased it. The site-A and -B double mutation of the -527/+95 promoter remarkably reduced the promoter activity induced by Foxa overexpression, indicating that Foxa-binding sites in the -527/+95 region are located only on sites A and B. The mutation of site A in the -48/+53 promoter did not affect the retinoic acid response, but the site-B mutation abolished the constitutive promoter activity and remarkably reduced the promoter activity with retinoic acid. These results demonstrate that Foxa up-regulates the vitronectin expression during the retinoic acid-induced differentiation in Neuro2a cells.

Expression of the human poliovirus receptor/CD155 gene is activated by sonic hedgehog

The human poliovirus receptor/CD155 is a transmembrane glycoprotein belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily. The ectodomain of CD155 mediates cell attachment to the extracellular matrix molecule vitronectin, while its intracellular domain interacts with the dynein light chain Tctex-1. CD155 is a primate-restricted gene that is expressed during development in mesenchymal tissues and ventrally derived structures within the CNS. Its function in adults is as yet unknown, but significantly, CD155 is aberrantly expressed in neuroectodermal tumors. We show that the expression of CD155 mRNA is up-regulated when human Ntera2 cells are treated with purified Sonic hedgehog (Shh) protein. Reporter gene expression driven by the CD155 core promoter is activated by Shh in transient co-transfection assays. Analysis of the CD155 core promoter indicates that an intact GLI binding site is required for Shh activation. In addition, overexpression of Gli1 or Gli3 potently activates reporter gene expression driven by the CD155 core promoter. These data identify the CD155 gene as a transcriptional target of Shh, a finding that has significance for the normal function of CD155 during development and the expression of CD155 in neuroectodermal tumors.

Cell-type dependency of two Foxa/HNF3 sites in the regulation of vitronectin promoter activity

The mouse vitronectin promoter has two consensus sequences of the Foxa/hepatocyte nuclear factor (HNF) 3-binding site (from -34 to -25, site A, and +15 to +26 base pairs (bp), site B). Site-directed mutagenesis of site B inhibited binding of nuclear proteins from mouse neuroblastoma Neuro2a and reduced the promoter activity to 4.6% in a 101-bp fragment (from -48 to +53 bp) in Neuro2a cells. The nuclear proteins of site B were identified as the Foxa1/HNF3alpha and Foxa2/HNF3beta proteins by supershift assay. Next, we examined site A. Mutation of site A in Neuro2a cells did not affect the promoter activity, and binding of nuclear proteins was not detected. Overexpression of Foxa1 or Foxa2 protein activated the mutated site B promoter, but failed to activate the sites A and B double-mutated promoter in Neuro2a cells, indicating that site A is a potential transcription regulatory site. Recombinant Foxa1 and Foxa2 proteins and nuclear extract from mouse liver bound not only to site B, but also to site A. In human hepatoma HepG2 cells, mutation of sites A and B decreased the promoter activity to 82% and 38%, respectively, in the wild promoter, and double mutation of sites A and B decreased the wild promoter activity to 5%, indicating that sites A and B contribute to the promoter activity in HepG2 cells. These results demonstrate that the two Foxa-binding sites regulate the vitronectin promoter activity in cell type-dependent manner.

Caught in the matrix: how vitronectin controls neuronal differentiation

Cerebellar granule cells are the most abundant neurons in the brain and are crucial to the circuitry that controls motor coordination. The proliferation of granule cell precursors (GCPs) is controlled by the secreted signaling molecule Sonic hedgehog (Shh), but the factors that regulate GCP differentiation remain a mystery. A recent study suggests that the extracellular matrix protein vitronectin might tell GCPs when to stop dividing and begin differentiation.

Substrate-bound human recombinant L1 selectively promotes neuronal attachment and outgrowth in the presence of astrocytes and fibroblasts

Axonal pathfinding is a complex process that is mediated through cell-matrix and cell-cell interactions. A large number of studies have demonstrated that ECM and ECM-derived proteins and peptides are potent promoters of neurite outgrowth, however much less attention is given to the fact that these same ligands also elicit responses in a wide variety of non-neuronal cell types. We examined the use of a substrate-bound recombinant form of human L1, an integral membrane protein, as a ligand for bridging materials for repairing the CNS by studying its effectiveness in promoting specific responses of neuronal cells in the presence of astrocytes and fibroblasts. L1, a cell adhesion molecule expressed in the developing CNS and PNS, has strong neurite promoting activity, and contributes to axonal guidance and axonal fasciculation during development. In this study, substrates treated with L1-Fc were compared to subtrates treated with fibronectin and poly-lysine (PDL) with respect to their interaction with a variety of cell types, including three types of neurons (DRG neurons, cerebellar granule neurons, and hippocampal neurons), astrocytes, dermal fibroblasts, and meningeal cells. L1-Fc-treated substrates supported significantly higher levels of neurite outgrowth relative to fibronectin and PDL, while inhibiting the attachment of astrocytes, meningeal cells, and fibroblasts. We also show that neuronal cells attach to and extend neurites on 30 microm diameter L1-Fc-treated filaments as an example of a potentially useful bridging substrate. The high level of biological specificity displayed by surface-bound L1, along with the fact that it is a potent promoter of neurite outgrowth, is normally expressed on axons and regulates axonal fasciculation during normal development bodes well for its use on bridging materials for the repair of the CNS, and suggests that cell adhesion molecules, in general, may be useful for biomaterial modification. Moreover, small diameter filaments coated with L1-Fc may function in an analogous way to pioneering axons that guide the growth of axons to distal targets during development.

The poliovirus receptor CD155 mediates cell-to-matrix contacts by specifically binding to vitronectin

The human receptor for poliovirus (CD155) is an immunoglobulin-like molecule with unknown normal function(s). Here we provide evidence that CD155 binds specifically to vitronectin with a dissociation constant (K(d)) of 72 nM as determined by surface plasmon resonance. Based on sequence homology to the CD155 gene, three poliovirus receptor-related genes (PRR1, PRR2, and PRR3) were cloned recently. PRR proteins were reported by others to mediate homophilic cell adhesion. Neither PRR1 nor PRR2 binds poliovirus and it is assumed that their physiological functions differ from that of CD155. Indeed, mPRR2 was found to bind to vitronectin only weakly, while its self-adhesion activity is characterized by a K(d) of 310 nM. Moreover, there is no evidence for CD155 self-adhesion. Both CD155 and vitronectin colocalize to follicular dendritic cells and B cells inside the germinal centers of secondary lymphoid tissue (tonsils)-an observation suggesting that the CD155/vitronectin interaction is required for the establishment of a proper immune response in this particular context.

A hedgehog-insensitive form of patched provides evidence for direct long-range morphogen activity of sonic hedgehog in the neural tube

Cell pattern in the ventral neural tube is organized by Sonic hedgehog (Shh) secreted by floor plate cells. To assay the range of direct Shh action, we developed a general method for blocking transduction of Hedgehog (Hh) signals through ectopic expression of a deleted form of the Hh receptor Patched (Ptc), termed Ptc(Deltaloop2). We validated this method in Drosophila and used mouse Ptc1(Deltaloop2) (mPtc1(Deltaloop2)) to block Shh transduction in the chick neural tube. mPtc1(Deltaloop2) expression caused cell-autonomous ventral-to-dorsal switches in progenitor identity and neuronal fate throughout the ventral neural tube, supporting a gradient mechanism whereby Shh acts directly and at long range. mPtc1(Deltaloop2) expression also caused the abnormal spread of Shh to more dorsal cells, indicating that Shh in the neural tube, like Hh in Drosophila, induces a feedback mechanism that limits its range of action.

Vitronectin regulates Sonic hedgehog activity during cerebellum development through CREB phosphorylation

During development of the cerebellum, Sonic hedgehog (SHH) is expressed in migrating and settled Purkinje neurons and is directly responsible for proliferation of granule cell precursors in the external germinal layer. We have previously demonstrated that SHH interacts with vitronectin in the differentiation of spinal motor neurons. Here, we analysed whether similar interactions between SHH and extracellular matrix glycoproteins regulate subsequent steps of granule cell development. Laminins and their integrin receptor subunit alpha6 accumulate in the outer most external germinal layer where proliferation of granule cell precursors is maximal. Consistent with this expression pattern, laminin significantly increases SHH-induced proliferation in primary cultures of cerebellar granule cells. Vitronectin and its integrin receptor subunits alpha(v) are expressed in the inner part of the external germinal layer where granule cell precursors exit the cell cycle and commence differentiation. In cultures, vitronectin is able to overcome SHH-induced proliferation, thus allowing granule cell differentiation. Our studies indicate that the pathway in granule cell precursors responsible for the conversion of a proliferative SHH-mediated response to a differentiation signal depends on CREB. Vitronectin stimulates phosphorylation of cyclic-AMP responsive element-binding protein (CREB), and over-expression of CREB is sufficient to induce granule cell differentiation in the presence of SHH. Taken together, these data suggest that granule neuron differentiation is regulated by the vitronectin-induced phosphorylation of CREB, a critical event that terminates SHH-mediated proliferation and permits the differentiation program to proceed in these cells.

Regulation of the neural patterning activity of sonic hedgehog by secreted BMP inhibitors expressed by notochord and somites

The secretion of Sonic hedgehog (Shh) from the notochord and floor plate appears to generate a ventral-to-dorsal gradient of Shh activity that directs progenitor cell identity and neuronal fate in the ventral neural tube. In principle, the establishment of this Shh activity gradient could be achieved through the graded distribution of the Shh protein itself, or could depend on additional cell surface or secreted proteins that modify the response of neural cells to Shh. Cells of the neural plate differentiate from a region of the ectoderm that has recently expressed high levels of BMPs, raising the possibility that prospective ventral neural cells are exposed to residual levels of BMP activity. We have examined whether modulation of the level of BMP signaling regulates neural cell responses to Shh, and thus might contribute to the patterning of cell types in the ventral neural tube. Using an in vitro assay of neural cell differentiation we show that BMP signaling markedly alters neural cell responses to Shh signals, eliciting a ventral-to-dorsal switch in progenitor cell identity and neuronal fate. BMP signaling is regulated by secreted inhibitory factors, including noggin and follistatin, both of which are expressed in or adjacent to the neural plate. Conversely, follistatin but not noggin produces a dorsal-to-ventral switch in progenitor cell identity and neuronal fate in response to Shh both in vitro and in vivo. These results suggest that the specification of ventral neural cell types depends on the integration of Shh and BMP signaling activities. The net level of BMP signaling within neural tissue may be regulated by follistatin and perhaps other BMP inhibitors secreted by mesodermal cell types that flank the ventral neural tube.

Diverse mechanisms of osteoblast spreading on hydroxyapatite and titanium

Hydroxyapatite (HA) is an osteoconductive implant material. We previously demonstrated that RGD peptides regulate the spreading of HOS cells on HA but not on titanium, speculating that the osteoconductivity of HA might be attributed to this RGD domain-dependent spreading of osteoblasts. To confirm this hypothesis, the molecules which regulate the spreading of HOS cells on HA and on titanium were investigated. The 50% effective dose (ED50) of RGD peptide for the spreading on HA was five fold lower comparing to titanium. Anti-alphaV integrin antibody, vitronectin, and fibronectin inhibited the spreading on HA but not on titanium. In Western blot analysis, vitronectin and fibronectin were found in components adsorbed to HA but not to titanium. Taken together, the spreading of HOS cells on HA but not on titanium requires the interaction of alphaV integrin and its ligands. The ED50 of the RGD peptides on titanium but not on HA was remarkably reduced by neuraminidase treatment, that by itself could not inhibit the spreading on both materials. This phenomenon suggests that RGD domain and sialic acid cooperatively but not independently mediate the spreading of HOS cells on titanium. Collectively, the molecules regulating the spreading on HA are apparently different from those on titanium. The spreading of osteoblasts mediated by RGD domain of vitronectin and fibronectin might contribute to the osteoconductive ability of HA.

Synaptic control of motoneuronal excitability

Movement, the fundamental component of behavior and the principal extrinsic action of the brain, is produced when skeletal muscles contract and relax in response to patterns of action potentials generated by motoneurons. The processes that determine the firing behavior of motoneurons are therefore important in understanding the transformation of neural activity to motor behavior. Here, we review recent studies on the control of motoneuronal excitability, focusing on synaptic and cellular properties. We first present a background description of motoneurons: their development, anatomical organization, and membrane properties, both passive and active. We then describe the general anatomical organization of synaptic input to motoneurons, followed by a description of the major transmitter systems that affect motoneuronal excitability, including ligands, receptor distribution, pre- and postsynaptic actions, signal transduction, and functional role. Glutamate is the main excitatory, and GABA and glycine are the main inhibitory transmitters acting through ionotropic receptors. These amino acids signal the principal motor commands from peripheral, spinal, and supraspinal structures. Amines, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, and neuropeptides, as well as the glutamate and GABA acting at metabotropic receptors, modulate motoneuronal excitability through pre- and postsynaptic actions. Acting principally via second messenger systems, their actions converge on common effectors, e.g., leak K(+) current, cationic inward current, hyperpolarization-activated inward current, Ca(2+) channels, or presynaptic release processes. Together, these numerous inputs mediate and modify incoming motor commands, ultimately generating the coordinated firing patterns that underlie muscle contractions during motor behavior.

Development of specific connectivity between premotor neurons and motoneurons in the brain stem and spinal cord

Astounding progress has been made during the past decade in understanding the general principles governing the development of the nervous system. An area of prime physiological interest that is being elucidated is how the neural circuitry that governs movement is established. The concerted application of molecular biological, anatomical, and electrophysiological techniques to this problem is yielding gratifying insight into how motoneuron, interneuron, and sensory neuron identities are determined, how these different neuron types establish specific axonal projections, and how they recognize and synapse upon each other in patterns that enable the nervous system to exercise precise control over skeletal musculature. This review is an attempt to convey to the physiologist some of the exciting discoveries that have been made, within a context that is intended to link molecular mechanism to behavioral realization. The focus is restricted to the development of monosynaptic connections onto skeletal motoneurons. Principal topics include the inductive mechanisms that pattern the placement and differentiation of motoneurons, Ia sensory afferents, and premotor interneurons; the molecular guidance mechanisms that pattern the projection of premotor axons in the brain stem and spinal cord; and the precision with which initial synaptic connections onto motoneurons are established, with emphasis on the relative roles played by cellular recognition versus electrical activity. It is hoped that this review will provide a guide to understanding both the existing literature and the advances that await this rapidly developing topic.

Gliogenesis in the central nervous system

Multipotential neuroepithelial stem cells are thought to give rise to all the differentiated cells of the central nervous system (CNS). The developmental potential of these multipotent stem cells becomes more restricted as they differentiate into progressively more committed cells and ultimately into mature neurons and glia. In studying gliogenesis, the optic nerve and spinal cord have become invaluable models and the progressive stages of differentiation are being clarified. Multiple classes of glial precursors termed glial restricted precursors (GRP), oligospheres, oligodendrocyte-type2 astrocyte (O-2A) and astrocyte precursor cells (APC) have been identified. Similar classes of precursor cells can be isolated from human neural stem cell cultures and from embryonic stem (ES) cell cultures providing a non-fetal source of such cells. In this review, we discuss gliogenesis, glial stem cells, putative relationships of these cells to each other, factors implicated in gliogenesis, and therapeutic applications of glial precursors.

Sonic hedgehog synergizes with the extracellular matrix protein vitronectin to induce spinal motor neuron differentiation

Patterning of the vertebrate neural tube depends on intercellular signals emanating from sources such as the notochord and the floor plate. The secreted protein Sonic hedgehog and the extracellular matrix protein Vitronectin are both expressed in these signalling centres and have both been implicated in the generation of ventral neurons. The proteolytic processing of Sonic hedgehog is fundamental for its signalling properties. This processing generates two secreted peptides with all the inducing activity of Shh residing in the highly conserved 19 kDa amino-terminal peptide (N-Shh). Here we show that Vitronectin is also proteolitically processed in the embryonic chick notochord, floor plate and ventral neural tube and that this processing is spatiotemporally correlated with the generation of motor neurons. The processing of Vitronectin produces two fragments of 54 kDa and 45 kDa, as previously described for Vitronectin isolated from chick yolk. The 45 kDa fragment lacks the heparin-binding domain and the integrin-binding domain, RGD, present in the non-processed Vitronectin glycoprotein. Here we show that N-Shh binds to the three forms of Vitronectin (70, 54 and 45 kDa) isolated from embryonic tissue, although is preferentially associated with the 45 kDa form. Furthermore, in cultures of dissociated neuroepithelial cells, the combined addition of N-Shh and Vitronectin significantly increases the extent of motor neuron differentiation, as compared to the low or absent inducing capabilities of either N-Shh or Vitronectin alone. Thus, we conclude that the differentiation of motor neurons is enhanced by the synergistic action of N-Shh and Vitronectin, and that Vitronectin may be necessary for the proper presentation of the morphogen N-Shh to one of its target cells, the differentiating motor neurons.

Patterning motoneurons in the vertebrate nervous system

Vertebrate motoneurons show considerable diversity in their soma locations, axonal trajectories and innervation targets. Results from studies of a variety of vertebrate species as well as fruit-flies are elucidating the mechanisms by which this diversity is generated. Motoneuron subpopulations appear to be defined by combinations of transcription factor genes expressed in distinct spatiotemporal patterns in both motoneuron progenitors and postmitotic motoneurons. Notochord-derived signals can induce motoneuron formation, paraxial-mesoderm-derived signals can pattern motoneuron subpopulations along the rostrocaudal body axis, and local signals within the neural tube can regulate the number and time at which motoneurons form. Additional, later signals can promote formation of proper central circuitry and motoneuron survival. The identification of the genes and signals responsible for regulating these processes should help to provide a more-detailed understanding of motoneuron patterning.

Genetic and molecular analyses of motoneuron development

Motoneurons have distinct identities and muscle targets. Recent classical and molecular genetic studies in flies and vertebrates have begun to elucidate how motoneuron identities and target specificities are established. Many of the same molecules participate in the guidance of both vertebrate and fly motor axons. It is less clear, however, whether the same molecular mechanisms establish vertebrate and fly motoneuron identities.